Insurers Weather Storm; Stocks Climb

Shares of financial services firms helped lead the broader market higher Tuesday as investors were encouraged that insurance companies saw less damage from Hurricane Frances than originally feared.


US Airways Pilots #39; Union Leaders Reject Proposal

Leaders of US Airways #39; pilots union late Monday rejected the carrier #39;s latest contract proposal, a blow to the airline #39;s attempt to avoid a second bankruptcy filing.


Invesco, AIM Advisors in \$450 Million Market Timing Settlement

In one of the biggest settlements to date in the mutual fund scandal, Invesco Funds and AIM Advisors agreed to \$450 million in fines and fee reductions Tuesday to settle allegations they allowed favored customers to carry out illicit trading strategies in


Ford Recalls About 40,000 Minivans

Ford Motor Co. (FN: Quote, Profile, Research) is recalling about 40,000 minivans because their wheel hubs may develop cracks. The recall affects 35,401 Ford Freestar minivans and 4,630


Modest Scot who has hit the jackpot

It #39;s been a year to remember for Bill Gammell, chief executive of Cairn Energy, who has seen the company he founded 24 years ago in Edinburgh quadruple in value in the 12 months to 2.


TiVo, Netflicks to announce partnership

TiVo, the popular digital video recording system, and Netflix plan to team up to offer customers movie-downloading on demand. According to Newsweek, an announcement is due later this month.


Elated Singh on top of the world

AS THE son of an aircraft technician in Fiji, as a nightclub bouncer in Edinburgh, as a teaching pro in Borneo, even as a plodding player on the PGA Tour early in his career, Vijay Singh could only guess what he could accomplish as a golfer.


Hewitt streak continues, through to last 8

Australian Lleyton Hewitt #39;s hot streak has continued, the No.4 seed crushing Slovakian Karol Beck to reach the US Open quarter-finals.


Two Italian women among four aid workers abducted in Baghdad

TWO Italian women were kidnapped in Iraq yesterday when armed men in military uniforms stormed the Baghdad office of an aid group where they worked.


British soldier is charged with murdering Iraqi

A 21-YEAR OLD British soldier appeared in court yesterday charged with murdering an Iraqi civilian during the course of an arrest.


Milosevic attacks imposition of defence lawyers as  #39;legal fiction #39;

THE former Yugoslav president Slobodan Milosevic blasted a decision to impose defence lawyers on him as  quot;legal fiction quot; yesterday, as his first witness began her testimony at his war crimes trial.


Israelis Mount New Gaza Raid After Strike on Hamas (Reuters)

Reuters - Israeli tanks and helicopters swept into\the northern Gaza Strip early on Wednesday, a day after\soldiers killed 14 Hamas militants in the biggest ever raid of\its kind.


Dollar Edges Higher as Greenspan Awaited (Reuters)

Reuters - The dollar posted modest gains on\Wednesday as investors awaited comments from the Federal\Reserve chief that are expected to point to further rises in\U.S. interest rates this year.


Netflix, TiVo Aim to Offer Online Service (AP)

AP - Home entertainment trendsetters Netflix Inc. and TiVo Inc. hope to link up on a service that will use high-speed Internet connections to pipe DVD-quality movies into the homes of their mutual subscribers.


Massive relief operation underway in flood-hit southwestern China (Canadian Press)

Canadian Press - BEIJING (AP) - At least 143 people in southwestern China have been killed and dozens more are missing in massive floods and landslides triggered by torrential summer rains, officials and state television reported Tuesday.


Suspected terrorist facing deportation says he suffered abuse behind bars (Canadian Press)

Canadian Press - TORONTO (CP) - An Egyptian refugee suspected of being a terrorist with links to Osama bin Laden told a harrowing tale of emotional abuse Tuesday as he described spending the last four years behind bars in Canada.


Federer Walks On

Andrei Pavel's decision to withdraw from the tournament because of a back injury gives Roger Federer a walkover -- and a showdown with Andre Agassi on Wednesday night.


Ogden's Knee Improves; His Status Is Uncertain

The Ravens are waiting to see how the knee of tackle Jonathan Ogden improves, and continue to hope that he will play in the season opener.


Dollar Edges Higher as Greenspan Awaited

The dollar posted modest gains on Wednesday as investors awaited comments from the Federal Reserve chief that are expected to point to further rises in US interest rates this year.


California to sue e-voting firm

SAN FRANCISCO - California Attorney General Bill Lockyer said on Tuesday that he would sue electronic voting machine maker Diebold Inc.


Eriksson job on line in Poland

THERE is nothing new under the sun. Heres the scenario. Itsa vital World Cup qualifier deep in the industrial heartlands of Poland.


Notes: A new shortstop in  #39;05?

Jose Valentin has been the White Sox shortstop for five seasons, but there is no guarantee he will be back in 2005. Valentin, who turns 35 in October and is


Notes: Crain plays two

They may seem like uncharted waters for closer-in-waiting Jesse Crain, but two-inning stints are all part of the master plan for the rookie reliever.


Heart Disease Should Not Come As A Surprise

Bill Clinton was an active, jogging, jovial time bomb. Like thousands of others, he had no idea how close he was to a heart attack and possibly death - even though he had years of presidential health care and continued checkups.


Dodgers land Ledee for depth

The Dodgers made their first acquisition of the offseason Monday, signing reserve outfielder Ricky Ledee to a two-year, \$2.5 million contract.


Atari to Reissue Scores of Old Video Games

By ANTHONY BREZNICAN     LOS ANGELES (AP) -- Atari wants to take you back in time, and to get there, you can ride a "Centipede" or an "Asteroid," or bounce back and forth between the pixilated paddles of "Pong."    The video game company told The Associated Press on Tuesday it plans to reissue scores of its classic titles from yesteryear on a single disc that can be played on the game consoles Xbox and PlayStation 2.    "Atari Anthology" will feature 85 games and is scheduled to go on sale in November at a cost of about \$20...


Stocks Climb Higher As Oil Prices Slip

Investors cheered by falling oil prices and an improving job picture sent stocks higher Tuesday, hoping that the news signals a renewal of economic strength and a fall rally in stocks.


Rajasthan black gold makes Cairns glitter

LONDON: British oil and gas firm Cairn Energy is on the verge of entering the elite group of blue-chip companies (FTSE-100). It #39;s saluting its Rajasthan reserves of oil for rising fortunes.


Troubled Intel places bet on a new breed of chip

SAN FRANCISCO The president of Intel, Paul Otellini, outlined plans Tuesday for computer chips due next year that simultaneously run tasks such as burning CDs and playing video games as he seeks to allay concerns about product delays.


Lexmark Printers Pose Shock Hazard

About 39,400 laser printers made by Lexmark International may pose an electrical shock hazard, the US Consumer Product Safety Commission warned this week.


Cape Canaveral: KSC employees told to report to work Monday unless <b>...</b>

CAPE CANAVERAL - Unless specifically called in, Kennedy Space Center workers should stay home until Monday, NASA and shuttle contractor United Space Alliance said today.


Tellabs Scales Back Price of AFC Deal

Tellabs Inc., a maker of fiber-optic network equipment, on Tuesday lowered the terms of a deal to buy Advanced Fibre Communications Inc.


California to sue Diebold over voting machine-related fraud

California #39;s Attorney General Bill Lockyer said today that he is suing Diebold over fraudulent claims he believes that company has made with regards to their electronic voting machines.


Toppled Woods looks ready to rise again

Woods no longer holds any of the major championships, while after a record span of 264 weeks Vijay Singh replaced him as No 1 when the Fijian finished first to Woods #39;s share of second place


Schu #39;s lucky escape

WORLD champion driver Michael Schumacher escaped uninjured after a high-speed crash during a testing session in Monza, Italy, yesterday.


Fallon Released on Bail

Champion jockey Kieren Fallon was released on bail without charge this morning after he was arrested for alleged involvement in the fixing of British thoroughbred races.


Israel frees Palestinian prisoners

JERUSALEM Israel began releasing more than 130 Palestinian prisoners on Tuesday in a move aimed at easing overcrowding in its jails, security officials said.


Milosevic Loses Director Role in His Own Courtroom Drama

The ghosts that have long haunted Slobodan Milosevic have finally appeared in court, and they have fundamentally altered the war crimes trial of the former Yugoslav president.


News: Nevadans to become first to use touch-screen voting that produces a paper trail

The Associated Press By Rachel Konrad


Yankees Miffed With Way Game Was Postponed (AP)

AP - The New York Yankees are annoyed at the commissioner's office over the way their game against the Tampa Bay Devil Rays was postponed.


Images of Beslan hostages add to Russia's agony (AFP)

AFP - Horrifying pictures of masked gunmen stepping through pools of blood as they wire a gym crammed with hundreds of terrified children, teachers and parents in the opening hours of the Beslan hostage tragedy were aired by Russian television.


No. 1 Illini Cruise to 78-59 Win

The University of Illinois took the Assembly Hall court on Monday night with a number one ranking in the ESPN / USA Today Coaches and AP Polls for the first time since January 23, 1989.


Thousands trapped by China floods as death toll hits 143, 50 more missing (AFP)

AFP - The death toll from floods and landslides unleashed by ferocious storms lashing southwest China jumped to 143 with at least 50 more missing, state media reported.


Red Sox' New Shortstop Fits Like a Glove

Ever since Nomar Garciaparra was traded for Orlando Cabrera, the Boston Red Sox have gone 26-8.


Invesco to Pay \$450 Million to End Inquiry of Fund Trades

The Invesco Funds Group and an affiliate, AIM Advisors, agreed on Tuesday to a \$450 million settlement with regulators, who accused the companies of improperly allowing


Rajasthan oil takes Cairn into FTSE 100

Cairn Energy, the Edinburgh oil and gas group, yesterday became one of Britain #39;s top 100 companies, despite announcing a 40 slump in half-year profits and facing questions over its key oil discovery in India.


Lifetime Magazine Closing

he Hearst Corporation and the Walt Disney Company will cease to publish Lifetime magazine amid disappointing results since the publication #39;s introduction in April 2003.


The Midas Touch, With Spin on It

hen Donald J. Trump kicks off the second season of his hit reality television show  quot;The Apprentice quot; this Thursday evening, reality may be in short supply.


Music industry warms to downloads

The Japanese music industry is making its first steps into the download business, but it has a long way to go before it hits its stride.


Dravid Wins First Cricketer of the Year Award; Flintoff Honored

India batsman Rahul Dravid was voted Player of the Year at the International Cricket Council #39;s inaugural awards ceremony in London after averaging 62 runs an innings for the national team.


A Sport Salutes Its Jackie Robinson

It is impossible for young tennis players today to know what it was like to be Althea Gibson and not to be able to  quot;walk in the front door, quot; Garrison said.


NBA: Hoop dreams

The NBA and Yuta Tabuse are no strangers-but they just got a bit cozier. After attending training camp and playing in three preseason games for the Denver Nuggets last season, the


Dollar Firms Ahead of Greenspan Testimony

TOKYO (Reuters) - The dollar firmed on Wednesday as  investors awaited comments from the Federal Reserve chief that  are expected to point to further rises in U.S. interest rates  this year.


OPEC May Decide Oil Price Target in Sept.

SYDNEY (Reuters) - OPEC may set a new target range for oil  prices next week and would like to see crude down from current  lofty levels closer to \$30 a barrel, the head of the producers'  cartel said on Wednesday.


BA to Sell \$773 Million Qantas Stake

SYDNEY (Reuters) - British Airways Plc. plans to sell its  A\$1.12 billion (\$773 million) stake in Australia's Qantas  Airways Ltd. in the next two days to cut debt and take  advantage of future consolidation in Europe.


Serena Blasts Umpire After Dramatic Defeat

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Bitter, angry, upset and cheated were  a few of the words Serena Williams used to describe her  feelings after a controversial quarter-final defeat by fellow  American Jennifer Capriati at the U.S. Open on Tuesday.


AL Wrap: Yankees Rout Devil Rays, Twins Eclipse Orioles

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Gary Sheffield produced four hits and  Alex Rodriguez drove in three runs to inspire the New York  Yankees to an 11-2 hammering of the Tampa Bay Devil Rays in the  American League Tuesday.


Capriati Edges Serena in Titanic Quarter-Final

By Simon Cambers  NEW YORK (Reuters) - Jennifer Capriati won a titanic struggle  with old foe Serena Williams to reach the semi-finals of the  U.S. Open, going through 2-6, 6-4, 6-4 Tuesday after one of the  most dramatic battles in the tournament's history.


YUKOS Denies Plans to Sell Refinery

MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russian oil major YUKOS denied on  Wednesday reports it planned to sell its Lithuanian refinery  Mazeikiu Nafta to help cover its huge back tax bill.


Proposed Program Would Remodel Foreign Aid (AP)

AP - Secretary of State Colin Powell calls it the most promising development in foreign assistance in decades. That is quite a claim for a program that has yet to disburse its first dollar. But it is clear that President Bush's Millennium Challenge Account, first proposed 2 1/2 years ago, represents a fresh approach to helping countries overcome economic backwardness.


Players, Team Owners Facing Long Contract Talks

TORONTO (Reuters) - National Hockey League team owners and  players appear poised to enter long contract negotiations  Thursday in a last-ditch bid to start the season on schedule.


INTERVIEW: BA Hires Citigroup For Qantas Share Sale

SYDNEY (Dow Jones)--British Airways Plc (BAB) Wednesday confirmed that investment bank Citigroup Inc. (C) will handle the sale of its 18.


Report: BBC eyes commercial sale

LONDON, England -- The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) has invited media giants Time Warner, Bertelsmann and Walt Disney to discuss possible bids for its commercial sales and publishing arm, the Financial Times reported on Wednesday.


Paying for a Storm That Passed in 1992

Florida homeowners are facing higher deductibles put in place to induce insurers to keep offering coverage there in the wake of  Hurricane Andrew more than a decade ago.


Former Banker Quattrone Faces Sentencing

Frank Quattrone, a former star investment banker who once earned \$120 million in a year, will be sentenced on Wednesday for obstructing a federal investigation into some


Update 1: Philippine Shares End Up 3.4 Percent

Philippine shares closed up sharply Wednesday, hitting its highest close in nearly 53 months, on heavy foreign buying inspired by improving investor sentiment toward the country.


CBS Consolidates Network, TV Studio Arms

Viacom Inc. has reshuffled its executive ranks, placings its Paramount television production under the control of CBS Entertainment President Nancy Tellem.


Commentary: Hurricanes, Clinton and the campaign

HEMPSTEAD, NY (CBS.MW) -- With Election Day now less than two months away, the campaign for the presidency has been rocked by several unexpected developments.


Loonie soars on expected rates hike

A combination of robust economic performance and the expectation of higher interest rates sent the Canadian dollar surging this morning.


American beefs up Dallas/Fort Worth service

NEW YORK (DowJonesAP) - AMR Corp. announced Friday it will boost its presence at its hub in Dallas-Fort Worth by 10, days before rival Delta Air Lines Inc.


Circuit City sales increase

Sales at stores open at least a year rose 2.9 percent at Circuit City Stores Inc. in the fiscal second quarter. The results, also called same-store sales, were lower than Wall Street estimates for the June-through-August period.


Oilsands transportation study calls for \$2.6 B road and rail <b>...</b>

CALGARY (CP) - A plan to build a new rail line to haul heavy equipment and supplies up to the oilsands in northern Alberta has  quot;substantial merit, quot; according to a study commissioned by the provincial government and the energy industry.


Lawmakers Introduce Sept. 11 Legislation (AP)

AP - Sept. 11 commission members thought it would be too difficult to break up the CIA and rearrange the Pentagon's spy agencies under a single national intelligence director, as is being proposed in the Senate, the commission's vice chairman says.


FTC Pulls Plug on Infomercial Giant

The FTC has banned well-known TV infomercial host Kevin Trudeau from peddling a myriad of health care products claiming to cure everything from old age to lupus, the first such prohibition ever imposed by the agency.


Nokia Adds Blackberry Software To Series 80 Devices

Nokia announced plans to preload Blackberry software in its Nokia Series 80-based mobile devices, including the Nokia 9500 Communicator.


Bankruptcy Firm Hired By Airline

With its labor negotiations faltering, US Airways Group Inc. has begun consultations with bankruptcy advisers in anticipation of a filing, a source familiar with the talks said Tuesday.


Intel Demonstrates New Chips

Intel Corp. President Paul S. Otellini yesterday demonstrated new chips scheduled for release next year that simultaneously run tasks such as burning CDs and playing video games


Hollywood to Help NASA Catch Space Probe

na meeting of the cinematic with the scientific, Hollywood helicopter stunt pilots will try to snatch a returning NASA space probe out of the air this morning before it hits the ground.


Spaceport Repairs Could Delay Flight

Hurricane Frances battered the Kennedy Space Center, a top NASA official said Tuesday, blowing gaping holes in the Vehicle Assembly Building and ripping open the


NETFLIX, TIVO HOOKUP CLOSE

Netflix and TiVo are in late-stage talks on a partnership that would let subscribers use the Internet to download Netflix movies directly into their TiVo box, The Post has learned.


Lexmark recalls 39,000 printers

Lexmark has ordered the recall of more than 39,000 Dell, IBM and Lexmark branded laser printers due to short-circuiting problems that could lead to electrical shocks.


California AG joins lawsuit suit against voting companies

UNDATED California Attorney General Bill Lockyer has joined a lawsuit against voting equipment company Diebold. It alleges the company sold the state shoddy hardware and software, exposing elections to hackers and software bugs.


Smart Phone Market Growing More Crowded

The smart phone market will grow more crowded Wednesday with the debut of two devices directed at opposite ends of the customer spectrum: a BlackBerry for consumers with a newfangled


Sony unveils HDV camcorder

Sony Corp. will begin selling its first high-definition video camcorder in Japan on Oct. 15, and worldwide by the end of the year, the company said in an announcement Tuesday.


Verizon launching upgrade of broadband Net service

Verizon Communications is boosting its broadband Internet offerings in an effort to lure customers from cable TV companies like Comcast Corp.


Microsoft turns attention to customer satisfaction

When Microsoft Corp. raised prices for the Texas Association of Counties three years ago, no one from the company called to explain the increase, says Steve White, the group #39;s information technology operations manager.


Army to Rebid Part of Iraq Contract

Following questions about performance of Halliburton subsidiary, the U.S. Army plans to rebid portions of a giant logistical contract with the company for food, housing and other troop support in Iraq.


Hurricane Ivan Devastates Isle of Grenada (Reuters)

Reuters - Powerful and\strengthening Hurricane Ivan killed at least three people in\Grenada and devastated its capital, St. Georges, as it pounded\the tiny islands of the southeastern Caribbean on Tuesday.


Vijay Singh revels in top spot

Sep 08 - Vijay Singh revelled in his status as the new world number one after winning the Deutsche Bank Championship by three shots in Boston on Monday.


World Cup of Hockey: US beats Russia 5-3

The United States hit its stride just in time to avoid elimination from the World Cup of Hockey. Facing the same Russian team that dominated them five nights earlier


Bonds moves closer to 700th career HR

Barry Bonds hit career home run No. 698 and eclipsed the 40-homer mark for the fifth straight season with a two-run shot in the San Francisco Giants #39; loss to the Colorado Rockies on Tuesday night.


Beltran leaves after triple, homer due to elbow bruise

Beating the Cincinnati Reds for the 11th time in his career was only the second-best thing that #39;s happened to Roy Oswalt in the last two days.


Beard leads Mystics past Monarchs in overtime

Rookie Alana Beard has looked like a seasoned veteran ever since the Washington Mystics put teammate Chamique Holdsclaw on the injured list.


Sporting News picks Tomlinson over Manning as NFL #39;s best player

ST. LOUIS - Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson was selected the best player in the NFL by the Sporting News, ahead of reigning co-MVP Peyton Manning of the Indianapolis Colts.


Halliburton may ditch Iraq deal

Halliburton may not rebid for contracts to support US troops in Iraq if the US army breaks up its contract, the company says.


U.S. Iraq Death Toll Hits 1,000, Two Italians Seized

BAGHDAD (Reuters) - The U.S. military death toll in Iraq  reached 1,000 on Tuesday nearly 18 months after the invasion to  topple Saddam Hussein, making its mark on the U.S. presidential  election campaign.


130,000 in Moscow protest terrorism after deadly siege

Tens of thousands of people rallied Tuesday outside the Kremlin in a show of solidarity against terrorism. The demonstration came nearly a week after more than 350 people, many


10 dead as typhoon pummels western Japan

TOKYO - A typhoon pounded western Japan, killing 10 people, leaving several others missing and knocking out power to more than a million households.


Anwar makes  #39;amazing #39; recovery

The newly released former deputy of Malaysia, Anwar Ibrahim, has made an  quot;amazing quot; recovery from back surgery, according to his doctor in Germany.


TV airs inside video of school

MOSCOW: A Russian television network Tuesday broadcast footage from the school raided by militants last week depicting hooded attackers in a gymnasium crowded with hostages and strung up with explosives attached to wires.


Iran Acknowledges Talks on Renewed Nuclear Freeze

TEHRAN (Reuters) - Iran's chief nuclear negotiator  acknowledged on Wednesday that Tehran was in talks to renew its  freeze of some sensitive nuclear activities.


Malaysia battle 2nd flu outbreak

Two people were under hospital observation in northern Malaysia with flu-like symptoms yesterday as the country fought to contain the second case of deadly bird flu in two weeks.


Taiwanese should not fear Beijing leaders #39; lies

During the Chinese Communist Party #39;s Central Committee plenary meeting this month we can expect to witness a power struggle between President Hu Jintao (  ) and Central


Top-10 Williams sisters controversies

After several missed calls by the line judge and chair umpire in Tuesday #39;s Jennifer Capriati-Serena Williams match that went against Williams, ESPN Research has compiled the top-10 controversies involving Serena and Venus Williams.


Talking with ... Tiger Woods, PGA Tour

Tiger Woods finished second at the Deutsche Bank Championship on Monday in Norton, Mass., and lost his No. 1 spot in the world rankings to tournament winner Vijay Singh.


ICC Awards ceremony to be held in London tonight

The Indian cricket team and cricket fans are anxiously awaiting the ICC Awards ceremony to be held at London #39;s Alexandra Palace on Tuesday.


For Pirates #39; Williams, Wait Ends Pirates 2, Brewers 0

PITTSBURGH, Sept. 7 -- Dave Williams pitched 6 1/3 shutout innings for his first victory in nearly three seasons and Jason Bay homered, leading the Pittsburgh Pirates past the Milwaukee Brewers, 2-0, on Tuesday night.


Applause greets Tivo/Netflix tale

Consumers could browse through Netflix #39; huge catalog of movies, then download everything but the popcorn into their TiVo digital recording device for immediate viewing.


Intel discloses WiMAX plans

Underlining its WiMAX ambitions, world number one chipmaker Intel has disclosed technical details of its upcoming wireless broadband chip.


Japan Court Issues Injunction on Fischer Deportation

TOKYO (Reuters) - A Japanese court granted an injunction on  Wednesday barring the deportation of former chess champion  Bobby Fischer, wanted in the United States for breaking  sanctions, until it rules on his lawsuit seeking to cancel the  deportation order entirely, Fischer's lawyer Masako Suzuki  said.


SI.com

MIAMI (Ticker) -- There #39;s no need for AJ Burnett to cash in his frequent flyer miles. Burnett allowed two hits in 6 1/3 innings and Miguel Cabrera and Alex Gonzalez homered as the Florida Marlins extended


SI.com

CHICAGO (Ticker) -- Brian Schneider  #39;s RBI single in the 12th snapped a tie as the Montreal Expos held on for a 7-6 victory over the Chicago Cubs .


Small crowd sees Mystics win in OT

Hope could arrive for the Washington Mystics tomorrow if three-time WNBA All-Star Chamique Holdsclaw decides she wants to be activated off the injured list.


Hurricane Ivan Devastates Isle of Grenada

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (Reuters) - Powerful and  strengthening Hurricane Ivan killed at least three people in  Grenada and devastated its capital, St. Georges, as it pounded  the tiny islands of the southeastern Caribbean on Tuesday.


Chinese Olympians Sing as Beijing Lures HK Voters

HONG KONG (Reuters) - Beijing grabbed Hong Kong headlines  on Wednesday with its Olympians singing and dancing into the  hearts of residents days before legislative elections in which  pro-democracy politicians could make gains over pro-China  rivals.


Anwar #39;s lawyers on attack in bid to clear his name

KUALA LUMPUR : Prosecutors fabricated evidence in the corruption trial of former deputy prime minister Anwar Ibrahim, his lawyers charged as they made a final bid to clear his name in Malaysia #39;s highest court on Wednesday.


Amid insecurity, Afghans ready for presidential vote

Candidates for president in Afghanistan #39;s first free elections to be held Oct. 9 officially kicked off their campaigns yesterday.


Frances to cost \$3 billion to \$10 billion

LONDON (CBS.MW) -- Hurricane Frances, the second hurricane to hit Florida in a month, will cost insurers between \$3 billion and \$10 billion, according to the most recent estimates from the industry #39;s leading catastrophe modeling firms.


US Airways Retains Its Previous Adviser

With its labor negotiations faltering, US Airways Group Inc. has begun consultations with bankruptcy advisers in anticipation of a filing, a source familiar with the talks said yesterday.


British Airways selling Qantas stake

Australia #39;s Qantas Airways Limited said Wednesday British Airways is selling its 18.25 percent stake in Qantas. Qantas asked the Australian Stock Exchange to stop trading


Sony debuts HD handycam

SONY has released the worlds first high definition handycam for the consumer market - the HDR-FX1. The device, which will be available locally and in the region from mid-November, at an estimated \$US4500


Thumbs up for Woodward and Jenkins

THE WRU last night gave their blessing to Gareth Jenkins joining the British Lions coaching team, as Sir Clive Woodward was confirmed as head coach for next summer #39;s tour of New Zealand.


Noah's Ark plan from Moon man

The European Space Agency's chief scientist sets out his vision for a DNA library on the Moon in case of emergency.


Cricket: Dravid top of the world

India's Rahul Dravid is named the world's best cricketer at the ICC Awards.


Australias Amcor ousts CEO amid cartel probe Amcor, the worlds top maker of plastic bottles, ousted its respected chief executive after finding some staff may have acted illegally to drive up box prices, knocking 8 percent off its shares.


Athabasca railway link cost estimated at \$2.6B

EDMONTON -- The idea of a railway linking the Athabasca oilsands to the rest of Alberta  quot;has substantial merit quot; and the project would likely cost \$2.


A Deepening Debate on Soldiers and Their Insurers

Some life insurers and their agents say that improper meddling by senior officers is preventing young soldiers from getting supplemental insurance coverage.


Tennis: Capriati wins epic

Jennifer Capriati beats fellow American and rival Serena Williams to reach the last four of the US Open.


2 Fund Groups to Pay \$450 Million to End Inquiry

The \$450 million settlement is with regulators who accused the companies of improperly allowing favored investors to rapidly trade in and out of their funds.


Church call over Salvador murder

Church leaders in El Salvador call for the 1980 murder case of Archbishop Romero to be re-opened.


US Air Pilots Union Balks at Wage and Benefit Cuts

The leader of a rebel pilot group at US Airways charged that the company was demanding too much from employees.


Expected Call for Advance Registration of Drug Tests

The debate over the disclosure of clinical drug trials could reach a turning point this week, with editors of influential medical journals expected to call for fundamental changes.


Johnson Said to Be in Talks for Heart Device Maker

Johnson   Johnson is in advanced negotiations to acquire Guidant, one of the nation's largest makers of devices to treat heart illnesses, for more than \$24 billion.


Dieters 'likely to put on weight'

A third of people trying to lose weight find they actually end up piling on the pounds, a survey finds.


Sorting Out 'Mess'

After examining film of Saturday's game, Maryland coaches pinpointed a series of lapses that Coach Ralph Friedgen summed up as "a mess."


ABC Opts For Delay

ABC, trying to avoid anything like Janet Jackson's exposed breast during last season's Super Bowl halftime, will use a 10-second delay in the music show before the NFL season opener.


Jenkins starts new life in Japan

\A US soldier who deserted to North Korea four decades ago embarks on a new life with his family in Japan.


U.S. Conceding Rebels Control Regions of Iraq

As U.S. deaths in Iraq surpassed 1,000, Pentagon officials said insurgents controlled important parts of central Iraq.


Cheney Warns of Terror Risk if Kerry Wins

Vice President Dick Cheney said that the country would be at risk of a terror attack if it made "the wrong choice" in November.


US to vote on intelligence reform

The US Congress is ready to vote on sweeping changes to the country's intelligence agencies.


Advocacy Groups And Campaigns: An Uneasy Shuttle

The flow of people between the campaigns and advocacy groups is alarming those who fought for tighter campaign finance rules.


To Speed Healing, Ossetians Cling Together

A Moscow hospital is filled with a mournful buzz and the activity of people grasping for a way to help six survivors of the three-day hostage-taking at Middle School No. 1.


Red Sox Clobber Athletics 7-1

OAKLAND, Calif. - Johnny Damon hit a leadoff homer in his return to the Red Sox lineup after missing four games with a jammed right pinkie to start Boston's 7-1 win over the Oakland Athletics on Tuesday night...


Hurricane Ivan Destroys Homes in Grenada

ST. GEORGE'S, Grenada - Packing ferocious winds, Hurricane Ivan made a direct hit on Grenada Tuesday, blasting apart scores of homes and forcing hundreds of evacuations before growing even stronger as it moved in Jamaica's direction...


Hurricane Ivan Damages Parts of Barbados


The digital home cometh, says Intel

IDF Fall '04 They really mean it this time


Intel goes public with WiMAX plans

IDF Fall '04 Sampling silicon right now


Intel admits Itanium pains, plots server future

IDF Fall '04 Welcome Whitefield


Met Office unveils supercomputer

The Met Office is celebrating 150 years by unveiling a new supercomputer which they predict will put them at the forefront of weather forecasting.


Before Updating, Wash Your Windows

(CBS/AP) Though Microsoft Corp. #39;s new security update package is all about protecting systems from worms, viruses and spyware, it can #39;t do much about what #39;s already on computers - and that could pose a problem.


Hurricane center takes cues from Florida State University

Coming ashore south of Fort Pierce on Saturday. Across the peninsula and exiting into the Gulf of Mexico north of New Port Richey on Sunday.


Nokia Shrinks 'Brick' Handset to Tap New Markets

AMSTERDAM (Reuters) - Nokia, the world's biggest handset  maker, unveiled on Wednesday a miniature version of its  equivalent of the Swiss Army knife it hopes will lure women and  less-techie business people.


RIM Launches BlackBerry with Revamped Keyboard

TORONTO (Reuters) - Research In Motion Ltd.  RIM.TO<RIMM.O>, which popularized wireless e-mailing with its  thumb-operated BlackBerry, launched a new version of the device  on Wednesday with a smaller, revamped keyboard.


Primus Unit to Pay \$400,000 in Do-Not-Call Probe

A division of Primus Telecommunications Group Inc. agreed Tuesday to pay \$400,000 to the federal government to settle allegations that the McLean phone provider made telemarketing calls in violation of the national do-not-call registry. -The Washington Post


Military toll tops 1,000

US military deaths in the Iraq campaign passed the 1,000 mark yesterday, with more than 800 of them during the stubborn insurgency that flared


Beslan: video of tragic scenes aired

Russian television has shown a videotape shot by one of the terrorists of the bloody Beslan siege as it unfolded inside the school #39;s gymnasium.


Invesco in \$450 million settlement with SEC

Invesco Funds Group and affiliate AIM Advisors say they have agreed to pay \$450 million (250 million pounds) to settle civil lawsuits over improper trading, the third biggest


Rite Aid lowers financial projections for fiscal 2005

CAMP HILL, Pa. Rite Aid says it #39;s lowering its financial projections for the current fiscal year, citing slowing pharmacy sales and lower-than-expected reimbursement rates paid by insurance companies and other health plans.


Multiple processor chips in Intel plan

Intel Corp. President Paul Otellini demonstrated new chips due out next year that simultaneously run tasks such as burning CDs and playing video games as he sought to allay concerns about product delays.


Yahoo Tests Travel Search Engine

Yahoo Inc. is launching its first public beta of a travel search engine based on its recent acquisition of online travel company FareChase Inc.


Editorial: Hostage-takers show no mercy

If Chechen separatists carrying on a 150-year-old battle against Russia hoped to gain anything by their maniacal siege of a Russian middle school last Wednesday, they were wrong.


China Begins Floods Clean-Up

Rain-soaked residents of south-western China began digging out today after floods and landslides that killed at least 161 people, while authorities warned of further rains over parts of the disaster area.


British Airways to sell Qantas stake, expand in Europe

LONDON (CBS.MW) -- British Airways (UK:BAY) (BAB) Wednesday said it #39;s planning to sell its 18.25 percent stake in Qantas as it seeks funds to expand in Europe.


New Zealand Finance Minister apologises for interest rate hike <b>...</b>

WELLINGTON : Finance Minister Michael Cullen apologised Wednesday for saying that the Reserve Bank had hiked it #39;s key interest rate.


Red Sox Clobber Athletics 7-1 (AP)

AP - Johnny Damon hit a leadoff homer in his return to the Red Sox lineup after missing four games with a jammed right pinkie to start Boston's 7-1 win over the Oakland Athletics on Tuesday night.


Former Banker Quattrone Faces Sentencing (Reuters)

Reuters - Frank Quattrone, a former star\investment banker who once earned  #36;120 million in a year, will\be sentenced on Wednesday for obstructing a federal\investigation into some of the most popular stock offerings of\the 1990s.


Rockies Edge Giants; Bonds Hits No. 698 (AP)

AP - Jeromy Burnitz hit a tiebreaking two-run homer in the eighth inning to overshadow Barry Bonds' 698th homer and lift the Colorado Rockies to an 8-7 victory over the San Francisco Giants on Tuesday night.


RIM Launches BlackBerry with Revamped Keyboard (Reuters)

Reuters - Research In Motion Ltd.\, which popularized wireless e-mailing with its\thumb-operated BlackBerry, launched a new version of the device\on Wednesday with a smaller, revamped keyboard.


Matsushita Unveils DVD Recorders, Eyes Higher Share (Reuters)

Reuters - Panasonic brand products maker Matsushita\Electric Industrial unveiled five new DVD recorders on\Wednesday and said it was aiming to boost its share of the\domestic market to over 40 percent from around 35 percent.


Yankees Paddle Devil Rays 11-2 (AP)

AP - Alex Rodriguez and Hideki Matsui each hit two-run doubles, and Jon Lieber struck out a season-high nine to lead the New York Yankees past the slumping Tampa Bay Devil Rays 11-2 on Tuesday night.


Sharon Demands Syria Curb Militants Before Talks (Reuters)

Reuters - Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon\rejected reported peace overtures by Syria on Wednesday, saying\it had to crack down on Islamic militant groups under its\control before negotiations that stalled in 2000 could resume.


Tiger may roar now that he #39;s not No. 1

We all saw it coming. For months now, the fight for golf #39;s No. 1 ranking had been staged in PGA Tour battles far and wide. While one man slowly chipped away at what once seemed to be an insurmountable lead


Burnitz HR, not Bonds, steals show

Jeromy Burnitz hit a tiebreaking, two-run homer in the eighth inning to overshadow Barry Bonds #39; 698th homer and lift the Colorado Rockies to an 8-7 victory over the San Francisco Giants on Tuesday night.


Woodward dedictated to Lions

Sir Clive Woodward has underlined his  quot;complete focus quot; on next summer #39;s tour to New Zealand after Lions chiefs gave him their total backing as head coach.


Kindred: Forfeit request from Yankees  #39;ill #39; conceived

With an unparalleled history of success, vast resources, an exorbitant payroll and a smug, quick-tempered owner, the New York Yankees have long been a  quot;love-hate quot; franchise.


Astros continue winning run

The Houston Astros claimed their 11th straight win, thanks to a 9-7 success over the Cincinnati Reds. Mark Lamb and Carlos Beltran both homered while Roy Oswalt won for the 17th time this season as the Astros


Cowboys' Testaverde Feels Pregame Jitters (AP)

AP - Vinny Testaverde is getting ready for his 18th NFL opener, so he definitely knows what to expect. Pregame jitters. And lots of them.


BlackBerry phone rings all the right notes

In the beginning, there was BlackBerry. A delicious fruit, yes, but also a clever way to get your e-mail on a pager-like device. Then there was BlackBerry: a clever way to get your


Invesco, AIM Advisors Settle for  #36;375M (AP)

AP - Invesco Funds Group and its sister company will pay more than  #36;450 million in penalties, restitution and lowered fees to settle allegations they allowed wealthy investors to trade their mutual funds improperly.


Colombian Soldiers Charged in Killings (AP)

AP - Colombia's vice president acknowledged he was wrong for suggesting that three slain union leaders were tied to Colombia's rebels, after prosecutors rejected the army's version of events and charged three soldiers in the killings.


World Cup of Hockey: U.S. Beats Russia 5-3 (AP)

AP - The United States hit its stride just in time to avoid elimination from the World Cup of Hockey. Facing the same Russian team that dominated them five nights earlier, the Americans got four goals and an assist from Keith Tkachuk in a 5-3 quarterfinal victory Tuesday night.


Smart Phone Market Growing More Crowded (AP)

AP - The smart phone market will grow more crowded Wednesday with the debut of two devices directed at opposite ends of the customer spectrum: a BlackBerry for consumers with a newfangled keyboard and a Nokia phone-organizer for mobile business professionals.


African poverty summit to open with focus on creating jobs (AFP)

AFP - Heads of state from some two dozen African states were to gather to craft a jobs creation plan that would lift hundreds of millions out of poverty and advance development on the world's poorest continent.


Baghdad slum alive with bombs

BAGHDAD - Iraqi Shiite militiamen were planting bombs in the street of a Baghdad slum amid echoing machine gun fire yesterday, as angry foot soldiers of radical cleric Muqtada al-Sadr cursed the Iraqi government and US  quot;occupiers quot; after deadly fighting


Wave machine Hurricane Ivan produces Caribbean swell

Surfersvillage Global Surf News, 08 September 2004: - - Hurricane Ivan pounded the islands of the southeastern Caribbean yesterday.


Texas Still Upset by Arkansas Celebration (AP)

AP - Texas still remembers Arkansas' players prancing all over the field, waving their state flag in the end zone and digging up pieces of the turf after the Razorbacks beat the Longhorns 38-28 last season.


Roddick Wins in Straight Sets Over Robredo (AP)

AP - Andy Roddick has yet to face a challenge in his U.S. Open title defense. He beat No. 18 Tommy Robredo of Spain 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 Tuesday night to move into the quarterfinals without having lost a set.


Calif. Joins Electronic Voting Lawsuit (AP)

AP - California Attorney General Bill Lockyer joined a lawsuit Tuesday alleging that voting equipment company Diebold Inc. sold the state shoddy hardware and software, exposing elections to hackers and software bugs.


Revenue Canada workers set to begin hitting picket lines Wednesday (Canadian Press)

Canadian Press - (CP) - More than 20,000 Revenue Canada employees were poised to begin rotating strikes Wednesday after wage talks with the government collapsed.


Dell Opens Support Center in China (AP)

AP - Dell Inc. says it opened a new support center this week in Xiamen, China, for business customers who buy servers and storage equipment.


Gay Republican Group Won't Endorse Bush -NY Times (Reuters)

Reuters - Leaders of the largest group for gay\men and lesbians in the Republican Party voted overwhelmingly\against endorsing President Bush for re-election because he\favors a constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage,\The New York Times said on Wednesday.


Bomb Blows Up in Gaza, Israeli Casualties -Sources

GAZA (Reuters) - Palestinian militants detonated a bomb  Tuesday near an Israeli army base in the central Gaza Strip,  causing several Israeli casualties, Palestinian and Israeli  security sources said.


RIM Launches BlackBerry with Revamped Keyboard

Research In Motion Ltd. (RIM.TO: Quote, Profile, Research) (RIMM.O: Quote, Profile, Research) , which popularized wireless e-mailing with its thumb-operated BlackBerry


Softbank Protests 3G Service Bandwidth Allocation

Softbank, which acquired Japan Telecom this summer, today complained that its plan to offer mobile phone service could be thwarted by the government #39;s refusal to provide the necessary bandwidth.


Bonds slugs No. 698

His clubhouse cluttered with the rookies, his team no longer a factor in the standings, Rockies manager Clint Hurdle found himself in a familiar position Tuesday afternoon - talking about the opposition.


Emphasis points to Pats

quot;Dont you guys ever get tired of that angle? quot; asked Patriots tight end Christian Fauria when approached about the NFLs declaration during the offseason that its officials will call illegal contact and defensive holding in the passing game more


Paying for a Storm That Passed in 1992

Today, as Florida homeowners continue with the cleanup from their second big hurricane in less than a month, they are finding that they are bearing a greater share of the cost themselves than they would have in the past.


OPEC May Decide Oil Price Target in Sept.

OPEC may set a new target range for oil prices next week and would like to see crude down from current lofty levels closer to \$30 a barrel, the head of the producers #39; cartel said on Wednesday.


YUKOS Denies Plans to Sell Refinery

Russian oil major YUKOS denied on Wednesday reports it planned to sell its Lithuanian refinery Mazeikiu Nafta to help cover its huge back tax bill.


Finance minister appears to tip his hand on Reserve Bank rate hike

New Zealand Finance Minister Michael Cullen seemed to suffer a slip of the tongue in Parliament on Wednesday, announcing an interest rate hike by the country #39;s Reserve Bank a day early.


Retail Briefs

CINCINNATI - Federated Department Stores Inc., the owner of Macy #39;s and Bloomingdale #39;s, said third-quarter profit may be reduced by as much as 4 cents a share after Hurricane Frances forced stores to close and kept shoppers away.


Seagate Raises Revenue Forecast

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Seagate Technology <STX.N>, the topU.S. maker of hard drives used to store data in computers, onTuesday forecast quarterly revenue above Wall Street estimateson strong demand for storage for larger business computers.


Falling oil prices fuel increase in stocks

Investors cheered by falling oil prices sent stocks higher yesterday, hoping the news signals a renewal of economic strength and an autumn rally.


Oilsands rail touted

Benefits from a not-for-profit \$2.6-billion rail link between Nisku, south of Edmonton, and Alberta #39;s oilsands include lower transport costs, greater safety and less


Nanogen to buy Bothell biotech

Epoch Biosciences, a small Bothell company that makes tools to speed up genetic analysis, said yesterday it has agreed to be sold to San Diego-based Nanogen for about \$60 million in stock.


Space Capsule Heading Back to Earth

DUGWAY PROVING GROUND, Utah Sept. 8, 2004 - A space capsule holding atoms collected from solar wind was en route to a tricky rendezvous with Earth, offering scientists the first material NASA has brought back from space in nearly three decades.


Intel Outlines WiMax Plans for Upcoming Rosedale Chip

quot;High-speed DSL and cable broadband access are only available to a fraction of computer users globally, quot; said Scott Richardson, general manager of Intel #39;s Broadband Wireless Group.


Verizon Launches New DSL Service

September 07, 2004 - NEW YORK - Verizon Online continues creating the best value in broadband by introducing a new DSL (digital subscriber line) speed option for consumers and businesses.


Yahoo gets Travel Savvy

Yahoo has said that it would soon begin testing a search engine called FareChase that allows travel shoppers to compare prices. The site, available to the general public since late Tuesday is meant to help


Samsung to Launch Phone with Mini Hard Drive

Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., the world #39;s third-largest handset maker, said on Tuesday it was launching the first mobile phone with a stamp-sized hard disc drive this month that would expand the memory capacity by 15 times.


He #39;s Barry close

Colorado Rockies manager Clint Hurdle would like to see San Francisco Giants left fielder Barry Bonds swing the bat.  quot;For me, he #39;s the most phenomenal offensive player I #39;ve ever seen,.


ROBBO: I #39;LL ELECTRIFY ENGLAND

ANDY ROBINSON, the man who would be king, has pledged to put the  quot;spark and buzz quot; back into England #39;s misfiring rugby union team.


Tkachuk awakens, puts Russians on ice

Keith Tkachuk might consider getting a few extra zzzzzz #39;s come Friday, before Team USA hits the ice for the morning skate. Energy Center in time to skate with his teammates.


Athletics not worth the price

Big-time college athletic departments who assert that their teams #39; success leads to increased alumni donations and a better applicant pool have created an  quot;arms


Russian school attack offers difficult lessons to learn

President Bush was quick to express solidarity with the Russian people last week after the terrorist attack on a Russian school that left more than 330 dead.


Infocus: Metasploit Framework, Part 2

Newly updated. This article provides insight into the Metasploit Framework, a very useful tool for the penetration tester. Part two of three.


Hollywood to Help NASA Catch Space Probe

In a meeting of the cinematic with the scientific, Hollywood helicopter stunt pilots will try to snatch a returning NASA space probe out of the air before it hits the ground.


Filmmakers Examining the 'What Ifs' of Nuclear Power

Documentaries on the effects on children of the Chernobyl nuclear accident and the Indian Point power plant will be broadcast back-to-back by HBO.


Information, Please: Wine Goes Digital

As with so many other businesses, wine stores are turning to computers to help keep track of new varietals and vintages.


Ars Electronica Asks What Will Be Next

This year's Ars Electronica festival in Linz, Austria, chose to explore the next 25 years of media art while including a smattering of its greatest hits.


Ground Zero, the Long View

The main attraction at the Project Rebirth Web site is the time-lapse photography capturing the rebuilding at ground zero.


The Cellphone That Doesn't Work at the Hotel

A theory is gaining traction among frequent travelers that hotels are intentionally blocking their cellphone signals.


Asian Stocks Lower, Greenspan Awaited (Reuters)

Reuters - Asian stocks edged lower on Wednesday\as profit taking set in after two days of gains and the dollar\firmed ahead of comments from Fed chief Alan Greenspan that are\expected to cement the case for further U.S. rate rises.


Russia Offers  #36;10 Million for Chechen Rebels -Agencies (Reuters)

Reuters - The Russia government has offered a  #36;10\million reward for information to help it hunt down Chechen\rebel leaders Shamil Basayev and Aslan Maskhadov, accused by\Moscow of being behind last week's school siege, news agencies\reported on Wednesday.


U.S. Army Soldier in New Round of Hearings (AP)

AP - A U.S. Army tank company commander accused of murdering a man in Iraq went before a military court Wednesday for a fresh round of hearings to determine whether he should be court-martialed.


Afghans lionise Masood on anniversary of his death (Reuters)

Reuters - More than 20,000 Afghans gathered in Kabul on Wednesday to remember Northern Alliance military commander Ahmad Shah Masood, slain by al Qaeda operatives two days before the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks on the United States.


Oil Tip-Toes Higher, Watches Stocks, OPEC

SINGAPORE (Reuters) - U.S. oil prices edged higher for the  second day in a row on Tuesday amid calls within OPEC to crack  down on excess output at this week's meeting.


Israeli Forces Seize Control of Parts of North Gaza

GAZA (Reuters) - Israeli forces seized control of parts of  the northern Gaza Strip on Wednesday, a day after soldiers  killed 14 Hamas fighters in the deadliest strike against the  leading Palestinian militant group.


Russia Offers \$10 Million for Chechen Rebels -Agencies

MOSCOW (Reuters) - The Russia government has offered a \$10  million reward for information to help it hunt down Chechen  rebel leaders Shamil Basayev and Aslan Maskhadov, accused by  Moscow of being behind last week's school siege, news agencies  reported on Wednesday.


Oswalt, Astros on a roll

Roy Oswalt became the National League's first 17-game winner and the Astros extended their winning streak to 11 games with a 9-7 victory over the Cincinnati Reds last night in Houston.


NL notables

San Francisco's Barry Bonds eclipsed the 40-homer mark for the fifth straight season. Rick Ankiel , whose career was derailed by wild pitches and elbow surgery, made his first appearance for St. Louis in more than three years. He allowed one hit in a scoreless inning in relief.


Schilling pitches for mates

Don't get Curt Schilling wrong. It's hard for him to imagine playing next year without any of the teammates who have helped to make this season special. But Schilling dreads returning next year without two players in particular: Pedro Martinez and Jason Varitek .


Yankees double their fun

Alex Rodriguez and Hideki Matsui each hit two-run doubles, and Jon Lieber struck out a season-high nine to lead the Yankees past the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, 11-2, last night in New York.


Staley, not Bettis, handed the ball in Pittsburgh

Coach Bill Cowher finally confirmed yesterday the Pittsburgh Steelers' worst-kept secret: Duce Staley is in at running back and Jerome Bettis is out again.


Tkachuk's 4 goals lift US

Keith Tkachuk had four goals and an assist, leading the United States into the World Cup of Hockey semifinals with a 5-3 victory over Russia last night at St. Paul.


Athletics not worth the price

Big-time college athletic departments who assert that their teams' success leads to increased alumni donations and a better applicant pool have created an  quot;arms race quot; for athletic supremacy when funds could be better spent elsewhere on campus, according to a study by the Knight Foundation Commission on Intercollegiate Athletics.


ESPN going to college for its new channel

To celebrate its 25th anniversary, ESPN announced yesterday it will be sending yet another all-sports channel your way (its seventh, if you're counting), this one dedicated to college sports.


Bank of memories

Certainly, the head-to-head duel between Vijay Singh and Tiger Woods in Monday's final round of the Deutsche Bank Championship at TPC Boston was the storyline that everyone would have asked for at the start of the tournament.


Bounty offered for Chechen rebels

Russia says it will pay \$10m for information leading to the arrest of two senior Chechen rebel leaders following the Beslan siege.


Court stops Fischer deportation

Former world chess champion Bobby Fischer wins a court order delaying his deportation from Japan.


Pakistan win toss and elect to bat against Australia (AFP)

AFP - Pakistan won the toss and elected to bat first in a one-day tour match against a Cricket Australia Chairman's XI at Perth's Lilac Hill ground here.


Chiofaro files plan to skirt takeover

International Place developer Donald J. Chiofaro said yesterday a new partner will put a quarter of a billion dollars into his two downtown towers, a financial rescue that would reduce his ownership share considerably but stave off an impending takeover by his current lender.


Mass. tech developer to be sold for \$163m

Defense technology developer Foster-Miller Inc. of Waltham says it will be acquired for \$163 million by Britain's QinetiQ Group PLC, a public-private partnership with the United Kingdom Ministry of Defense.


Firms to post drug data

Faced with a growing clamor for better disclosure, drug manufacturers said yesterday that they will begin a voluntary system of publicly posting the results of clinical trials -- both positive and negative.


Oil falls as OPEC sees rise in supply

WASHINGTON -- Oil prices fell yesterday as OPEC's president said supplies were growing faster than demand and traders breathed easier knowing that petroleum production in the Gulf of Mexico did not suffer as a result of Hurricane Frances.


Lawyers predict Quattrone could get tough penalty in his sentencing today

Former high-flying investment banker Frank P. Quattrone is about to find out just how unlucky he is.


Stent maker's rating is raised

Standard  amp; Poor's raised its outlook on Boston Scientific Corp. to positive from stable, citing its recovery of market share for its drug-coated Taxus cardiac stent after recalls that began in July. The debt rating agency said the upgrade reflects the Natick company's  quot;surprisingly rapid recovery quot; of market share for Taxus, and its diverse product line. Last week, Boston Scientific ...


Sports Depot makes a strategic play

Anticipating Harvard University's expansion in Allston, the owner of the Sports Depot pub-style restaurant last week bought longtime neighbor Able Rug's real estate -- a 19th-century slap-dash warehouse-style building and a parking lot -- for \$1.25 million.


Pension fund official joins Lee firm

Gregory A. White, one of Governor Mitt Romney's two representatives on the state pension board, has joined Thomas H. Lee Co., a leveraged buyout firm in Boston that does business with the \$32.5 billion retirement fund for Commonwealth employees.


Moscow terror protest draws throng

MOSCOW -- Tens of thousands of people answered a government call and rallied outside the Kremlin yesterday in a show of solidarity against terrorism, nearly a week after militants seized a school in southern Russia in a standoff that claimed more than 350 lives, many of them children.


Hurricane buffets eastern Caribbean isles

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad -- Hurricane Ivan tore down trees, blew off roofs, knocked out power, and forced hundreds of people to evacuate coastal areas as it pounded the tiny islands of the southeastern Caribbean yesterday.


Gallaher profits up despite tough Europe

Gallaher #39;s profits rose 4.4 percent in the first half as its improved prospects in Britain offset worsening trading conditions in continental Europe, the tobacco company says.


Update 4: Tokyo Stocks Close Lower, Dollar Down

Tokyo stocks fell Wednesday in the absence of market-moving news at home. The US dollar was down against the Japanese yen. The Nikkei Stock Average of 225 issues closed down 19.


Lexmark recalling printers

A recall of 39,400 laser printers made by Lexmark International Inc. and sold by Lexmark, IBM and Dell Inc. is due to a potential electrical shock hazard, the Consumer Product Safety Commission said yesterday.


USA 5, RUSSIA 3: Minor miracle -- Tkachuk #39;s four goals carry USA <b>...</b>

Someone wearing an old Soviet sweater sat in Section 215, and a big, white banner stretched across his entire row. In red letters, it said:  quot;MIRACLE IS OVER.


Expo #39;s Kim Can #39;t End Win Drought

Another good start by Kim Sun-woo went to waste as the Montreal Expos frittered away a two-run lead in the seventh inning before finally beating the Chicago Cubs 7-6 in 12 innings in Tuesdays MLB game in Chicago.


Chilling video shows plight of hostages

In the hours before many would die, the children and adults of Beslan #39;s School No. 1 were forced to sit and watch their masked hostage-takers wire up the floor and walls around them with bombs.


Italian women kidnapped in raid on relief agency

BAGHDADGunmen kidnapped two Italian women working for an aid agency and two Iraqis in broad daylight in central Baghdad yesterday.


Death toll from China floods reaches 161

At least 161 people have died in China as the country battles the worst flooding in a century. Villages downstream on the Yangtze River are braced for further deluges and water levels are expected to peak


Brit soldier charged

British authorities have, for the first time, charged a soldier with murder in the death of a civilian in Iraq. The man was indicted yesterday in a civilian court after his commanding officer blocked a court martial.


Israel #39;s eyes in sky #39; plummets into sea

JERUSALEMIt was one of the most expensive sets of eyes Israel has ever produced, and today it was to begin watching Iran like a high-resolution hawk from the lofty vantage of 260 kilometres skyward.


Gibbs Has Redskins Looking Back to the Future (Reuters)

Reuters - When Joe Gibbs last coached in\the NFL in the 1992 season there were no teams in Jacksonville\or Carolina.


US Economy's 'Soft Patch' to Linger -UCLA

SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - The U.S. economy will linger  through a "soft patch" for the foreseeable future and a  pullback in consumer spending could trigger a recession within  the next two years, according to a widely watched forecast  issued on Wednesday.


Bomb Blows Up in Gaza, Israeli Casualties -Sources (Reuters)

Reuters - Palestinian militants detonated a bomb\Tuesday near an Israeli army base in the central Gaza Strip,\causing several Israeli casualties, Palestinian and Israeli\security sources said.


Philippines Rescuers Battle Devastating Floods

Relief workers battled rain and choppy seas today to deliver food and medicine to the Philippines north-east following devastating back-to-back storms that killed at least 568 people and left hundreds more missing.


Double-team changes game for insurers

Charley, Frances and the specter of Ivan wreak havoc on industry assumptions. One, sure, but two? Three? By JEFF HARRINGTON, Times Staff Writer.


Honda planning to build new Acura SUV in Ohio

Honda Motor Co. announced plans Tuesday to manufacture a small SUV under its Acura brand at one of its Ohio assembly plants. Honda President and CEO Takeo Fukui made the announcement in a


PBS Rides Off with  #39;Noddy #39; Deal

PBS has signed a deal to broadcast  quot;Make Way for Noddy, quot; the British cartoon series based on the classic children #39;s books by Enid Blyton.


Star Trek universe to go on-line

THE BRAINS behind EA Games early efforts at online gaming are to have a crack at building an online Star Trek universe. Perpetual Entertainments Joe Keene and Chris McKibben have negotiated with Viacom


OpenOSX Debuts New Office

OpenOSX today announced Office 1.5 for Mac OS X, an easy-to-use solution for installing, configuring, and using the open source GNOME Office software on Mac OS X. OpenOSX #39;s Office release includes the necessary


Capriati gets break, victory

To beat Serena Williams, it takes an incredible amount of confidence, patience and skill. Tuesday night before an announced crowd of 19,932 at Arthur Ashe Stadium


Family first for Piniella

The manager is adamant the Rays did right staying home through Frances as the Yanks withdraw a request for a forfeit. By DAMIAN CRISTODERO, Times Staff Writer.


Dolphins #39; starter job seems week-to-week

And if you don #39;t understand the importance of this week, look closely at the words used by coach Dave Wannstedt and General Manager Rick Spielman on Tuesday.


Bounty offered for Chechen rebels

Russia will pay 300m roubles (\$10 m) for information leading to the arrest of Chechen rebel leaders Aslan Maskhadov and Shamil Basayev.


US to fully back Pak chase to catch Bin Laden

The US has said it will fully back any action that Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf takes to capture Osama bin Laden. State Department spokesman Richard Boucher said this at his daily press briefing on


Gallaher 1st-Half Net Rises 31 on Eastern Europe (Update1)

Gallaher Group Plc, the UK maker of Benson  amp; Hedges and Silk Cut cigarettes, said first-half profit rose 31 percent as the company sold more tobacco in Eastern Europe.


Philippine Shares Higher Early; Mkt Eyes 1700 Resistance

MANILA (Dow Jones)--Philippine shares are sharply higher early Wednesday on a technical rally, as the market sets its sights on testing the 1700 psychological resistance.


London Stock Exchange eyes Asia HQ

The London Stock Exchange plans to set up an Asia headquarters in Hong Kong to tap the growing number of mainland corporates eyeing listings abroad, a local newspaper reports.


Film Stuntmen Aim for Space Snatch-and-Grab

A space capsule holding atoms collected from solar wind was en route to a tricky rendezvous with Earth today, offering scientists the first material Nasa has brought back from space in nearly three decades.


Verizon Gives Speed Boost To DSL

Verizon has announced an upgrade to its DSL service in 12 states, providing a maximum download speed of 3Mbps and up to 768Kbps of upload speed.


- Anthony J. Causi

September 8, 2004 -- The Yankees are expected to send Major League Baseball a bill for between \$2 and \$3 million in an effort to recoup the money lost when the first game of Monday #39;s doubleheader was canceled because the Devil Rays didn #39;t make it out of


Tigers pull out 7-3 win in mistake-filled game

The Detroit Tigers were rusty on Monday after two days off, but they didn #39;t make as many miscues as their opponents. Therefore, the Tigers defeated the Kansas City Royals 7-3.


Powell spoke to Singh, Kasuri ahead of talks

US Secretary of State Colin Powell on Monday said he had spoken to both Indian Foreign Minister K Natwar Singh and his Pakistani counterpart Khurshid Mahmud Kasuri late last week before the two met in New Delhi this week for talks.


IMF Sees Robust U.S. Growth (Reuters)

Reuters - Robust U.S. economic growth will\likely continue into 2005, but authorities should cut the\budget deficit to reduce the risk to growth, International\Monetary Fund Managing Director Rodrigo Rato said.


Belarus' President Announces Referendum (AP)

AP - Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko announced a referendum asking voters to remove term limits so he can seek five more years in office, a change that will almost certainly isolate him even more from foreign governments that have condemned his authoritarian rule.


Ankiel Throws Scoreless Inning for Cards (AP)

AP - Rick Ankiel walked off the mound after throwing a scoreless inning and was met with a rousing reception of high-fives and slaps on the back.


AFP Interview: Afghan minister says attacks on NGOs inevitable (AFP)

AFP - Attacks on aid organisations in Afghanistan are inevitable, according to a government minister, who said the widespread perception that aid workers were wasting money that should be spent on Afghans was fuelling the violence.


Investors Await Greenspan for Rate Hints

LONDON (Reuters) - Financial markets ticked over ahead of a  key address by U.S. Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan on  Wednesday, expecting confirmation that interest rates in the  world's leading economy will go on rising at a moderate pace.


Tokyo Stocks End Flat

TOKYO (Reuters) - Tokyo stocks closed little changed on  Wednesday with shares such as Softbank Corp. that will be added  to the Nikkei average in October getting a lift but  profit-taking hitting some small-caps and other recent gainers.


Karzai set to be Afghan president in ring of steel

They are two of the most hawkish members of President George W. Bush #39;s cabinet and key architects of. the Washington-backed war that overthrew the Taliban in the wake of the September 11, 2001 attacks.


Playing Away Could Suit Europe -Torrance

LONDON (Reuters) - Former Ryder Cup-winning European  captain Sam Torrance believes this year's team will benefit  from defending the trophy on American soil next week.


Russia Offers \$10 Million for Chechen Rebels -Agencies

MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russia offered a \$10 million reward on  Wednesday for information to help it hunt down Chechen rebel  leaders Shamil Basayev and Aslan Maskhadov, whom it accuses of  being behind last week's deadly school siege.


OPEC may lift oil price target

After hovering above \$22 for months, cartel looks to adjust range to \$28 to reflect soaring prices. SYDNEY (Reuters) - OPEC may set a new target range for oil prices next week and would like to see crude down


IMF Sees Robust US Growth

Robust US economic growth will likely continue into 2005, but authorities should cut the budget deficit to reduce the risk to growth, International Monetary Fund Managing Director Rodrigo Rato said.


Singapore Shares End Dn On Pft-Taking;Eucon Weak Debut-2-

SINGAPORE (Dow Jones)--Singapore shares closed slightly lower Wednesday on profit-taking after recent gains, traders said. The benchmark Straits Times Index slipped 2.34 points, or 0.1, to 1959.


Modest Growth Seen for Calif. Economy - UCLA Study

California #39;s economy will grow at a modest pace this year in an uneven recovery that will chip away at an unemployment rate projected to remain higher than the national average, according to a closely watched economic forecast


Heineken #39;s Net Profit Falls 27 Percent

The Dutch brewing company Heineken reported a rise in first half sales on Wednesday but said net profit fell 27 percent, due in part to the weaker dollar.


Invesco deal ends US funds probe

Invesco Funds Group (IFG) and affiliate AIM are to pay a total of \$450m (254m) to settle an improper trading probe. The UK #39;s Amvescap, which owns both firms, said the two would pay \$140m in civil penalties


US Stock-Index Futures Decline; Dow Stocks Drop in Europe

US stock-index futures declined before Alan Greenspan #39;s presentation to Congress, where the Federal Reserve #39;s chairman may restate his commitment to a measured #39; #39; increase in borrowing costs.


Hong Kong, China Strike New Aviation Deal

In a gradual opening of China #39;s skies to more commercial aviation, Hong Kong and mainland regulators struck a deal Wednesday to grant more flying rights to carriers from the two sides.


Smoking ban hits cigs manufacturer Gallagher

Silk Cut owner Gallaher today posted a 4.4 rise in profits, despite what the company said was the negative impact on sales of the smoking ban in Ireland and higher taxes on cigarettes in Germany.


EU Authorizes First GMO Seeds for Commercial Use

The European Union approved on Wednesday the first genetically modified (GMO) seeds for planting that may be sold across the 25-nation bloc.


WPP to bid for Grey Global today

WPP and a US buyout firm will submit offers for US ad agency Grey Global today, while France #39;s Havas faces opposition to its bid from one of


Cash America buys Camco assets, sells Europe units

Cash America International Inc. (PWN.N: Quote, Profile, Research) , one of the world #39;s largest pawn shop operators, on Wednesday said it would buy the pawn operating assets of Camco Inc.


Nokia adds BlackBerry support to Series 80 handsets

Nokia is adding BlackBerry connectivity to its Series 80 mobile devices, including the Nokia 9500 Communicator, and has unveiled a new business smartphone, the Edge-compatible Nokia 9300.


Intel shifts course on processors

Intel Corp. took a huge step Tuesday away from its usual strategy of pushing the need for speed, announcing that it will offer microprocessors with dual cores across all product lines starting next year.


Utah pilot set for a new stunt: Grabbing a piece of the sun

Long before he began defying death as a Hollywood stunt pilot, Salt Lake City native Dan Rudert set his sights on becoming a mortician.


Don #39;t Touch That Printer Until You Read This Recall Notice

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has recalled a total of nine different models because the printers can short circuit posing a shock hazard to users.


Rosedale chips fuel Intel #39;s WiMax drive

Intel Corp. expects its first-generation WiMax chips to spawn devices for wireless broadband end-users that cost less than \$200 and won #39;t require a visit


State joins lawsuit against Diebold

California dropped its criminal investigation of Diebold Election Systems Inc. on Tuesday, instead joining Alameda County and two electronic-voting activists in suing the Texas-based touch-screen voting machine maker.


Hitachi launches next-generation USP

Barcelona  ITWeb, 8 September 2004 - In a global launch, Hitachi Data Systems (HDS) has announced its new universal storage platform (USP), TagmaStore, which the company says features technologies previously not available in enterprise storage systems.


Business Briefs

Tellabs, which makes equipment for telephone networks, reduced its takeover offer for Advanced Fibre Communications to about \$1.5 billion, citing a decline in Advanced Fibre #39;s profit and outlook.


FRANCE: PSA sets modest target for stop-start fitment of <b>...</b>

PSA is targeting fitment of its new stop-start technology, officially launched at a press conference in Paris yesterday, of 50,000 units by 2006.


Unisys Gets Deeper into Linux, Joins Red Hat Partner Community

Unisys, the maker of high-end servers, has joined the Red Hat Partner Community, strengthening its ties to the Linux vendor. Unisys, formerly a Windows-only shop, began offering its ES7000 servers


Star Trek to boldly go massively multiplayer in 2007

San Francisco based developer Perpetual Entertainment has announced that it has secured the rights to create a massively multiplayer game based on Viacom #39;s Star Trek franchise, which it plans to release in 2007.


Americans came from Australia: Study

WASHINGTON: Recent archeological evidence studies seems to suggest that the first Americans came from Australia and not Siberia as has been widely believed.


Sun Revisits Its Telecom Roots

Sun Microsystems (Quote, Chart) is going back to its roots with fresh eyes as a key supplier in the telecommunications marketplace.


Serena Blasts Umpire After Dramatic Defeat

Bitter, angry, upset and cheated were a few of the words Serena Williams used to describe her feelings after a controversial quarter-final defeat by fellow American Jennifer Capriati at the US Open on Tuesday.


Vijay doesn #39;t care if you like him; he #39;s No. 1 now

#39; #39;You guys look so sad, #39; #39; he told reporters after winning the Deutsche Bank Championship on Sunday.  #39; #39;Man, come on, it #39;s not the end of the world.


Federer Walks Into Spot in Quarterfinals

Without so much as a groundstroke, Roger Federer jumped directly from the third round to the quarterfinals Monday afternoon, setting up one of the marquee matches of the US Open.


Brief Yankees to play 2 today

Major League Baseball announced Tuesday that Mondays postponed game between the New York Yankees and Tampa Bay Devil Rays will be made up as part of a doubleheader today, and said the Yankees had withdrawn their request for a forfeit.


Irish remain confident after loss to BYU

Even in the wake of what many are calling one of the most damaging losses in recent history, Notre Dame coach Tyrone Willingham is putting a positive spin on things as he prepares for No


Hamilton to  quot;hoot and holler quot; his Ryder Cup compatriots

Instead of weighing in to Ryder Cup battle next week, British Open champion Todd Hamilton plans to play a few rounds of golf with his buddies.


Rockies get to Schmidt

Denver -- It #39;s always dangerous to draw conclusions at Coors Field until you see the pitcher and catcher shake hands after the final out.


Let the emotional joy ride begin

I am. I #39;ve been eyeballing Thursday #39;s Colts-Patriots AFC title rematch since the schedule was released. Speaking of released, the Patriots #39; Ty Law and every other NFL defensive back will have to let go this season after the allowable 5-yard chuck.


Padres box score

a-struck out for Molina in the 6th. b-doubled for Suppan in the 6th. c-fouled out for Neal in the 6th. d-popped out for Tavarez in the 9th.


#39;Black Widows #39; behind Beslan tragedy

An unknown Chechen rebel group called the Black Widows organised the siege of a school in the Russian city of Beslan in which hundreds of children, their parents and teachers were killed.


Russia puts price on Chechen rebels

Video image of hostages sitting below explosives strung from basketball hoops in the gymnasium of a school in Beslan, Russia. Photograph: NTV/AP.


Thatcher subpoenaed over coup

Former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher #39;s son Mark has been subpoenaed to formally answer accusations he helped to finance a coup plot in oil-rich Equatorial Guinea, his lawyer says.


Brunei reins in the bling for royal wedding

Oil-rich Brunei is gearing up for a royal wedding which will see a guest list of Asian leaders and Middle East royalty but decidedly less bling than previous events.


Sudan Links Southern Peace Talks to Darfur Rebellion

Sudan accused southern rebel leader John Garang of backing an uprising in Darfur in the west, and said his support for western rebels could undermine talks to end 21 years of civil war in southern Sudan, a news agency with close links


Russia Ready to Strike Against 'Terror' Worldwide

BESLAN, Russia (Reuters) - Russia's top general said on  Wednesday he was ready to attack "terrorist bases" anywhere in  the world, as security services put a \$10 million bounty on two  Chechen rebels blamed for last week's school siege.


Sudan Arrests 14 Islamists for Sabotage Plot

KHARTOUM (Reuters) - Sudanese authorities have arrested 14  members of an opposition Islamist party for plotting sabotage  after soliciting help from abroad, party officials and security  sources said on Wednesday.


U.S. Deaths in Iraq Top 1,000; Italian Women Held

BAGHDAD (Reuters) - The Pentagon death toll in Iraq reached  at least 1,002 Wednesday nearly 18 months after the U.S.-led  invasion, as the brazen abduction of two Italian women aid  workers in central Baghdad sparked a new hostage crisis.


David celebrates 500th birthday

\The 500th aniversary of the unveiling of Michelangelo's David is celebrated in Florence.


Cheney blasts Kerry terror record

US Vice-President Dick Cheney says a vote for John Kerry would make a terror attack more likely.


Rescuers reach Turkey fire miners

Rescuers start evacuating about 30 workers who  were trapped by a fire in a copper mine tunnel in north-western Turkey.


New record for Irish demography

A new survey shows that Ireland's population now totals more than four-million with this rise reflecting immigration stemming from the country's economic boom.


NBA Game Summary - Detroit at Dallas

The Pistons snapped a three-game road losing streak in the series...Five of the last six meetings have been decided by 10 points or more...The Mavericks #39; 39 points in the first half is a season-low...Detroit improved to 4-7 on the road this season...Newly


Ankiel Throws Scoreless Inning for Cards

Rick Ankiel walked off the mound after throwing a scoreless inning and was met with a rousing reception of high-fives and slaps on the back.    After more than three years away, the St...


Russia: Accidental Blast Led to Siege End

MOSCOW - The militants who raided a school in southern Russia last week were led by a man dubbed the Colonel, who enforced obedience by killing three fellow attackers - two by detonating the explosives they had strapped to their bodies.    Two days later, the attackers were moving the explosives they rigged around the gym where hundreds of hostages were held, and a bomb went off accidentally...


Clinton Making Satisfactory Recovery

NEW YORK - Breathing on his own and sipping liquids, former President Bill Clinton continued to make what doctors called a satisfactory recovery after undergoing a heart operation to bypass four severely clogged arteries.    Clinton was "resting comfortably" in intensive care at New York Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia Tuesday, "awake and alert and talking with his family," according to a statement by his office...


Russia Offers Reward for Rebel Information

MOSCOW - Russia offered more than \$10 million for information that helps "neutralize" two well-known rebel leaders from breakaway Chechnya accused of planning the school hostage standoff that killed at least 326 people last week, news agencies reported Wednesday.    The reports of the reward came a day after Russians got a horrific glimpse of the drama from video footage filmed by the militants who captured the school in southern Russia...


UF coaches coming, going

During a day of new beginnings, Florida and its fired coach will each launch the start of fresh chapters today. In the same afternoon, Utah Coach Urban Meyer will meet his


RadioShack Sees '05 Earnings Up (Reuters)

Reuters - RadioShack Corp. , the No. 3\U.S consumer electronics chain, said on Wednesday it expects\2005 earnings per share growth of as much as 21 percent as it\improves customer service and expands implements new growth\initiatives.


Francis, Late Holiday Hit Chain Sales (Reuters)

Reuters - U.S. chain store sales in the first\week of September finished flat, due in part to a later Labor\Day and Hurricane Francis, a report said on Wednesday.


JetBlue Profit to Be Hurt by Hurricanes (Reuters)

Reuters - JetBlue Airways Corp.  on\Wednesday said third-quarter earnings would be lower than its\previous estimates because of disruptions from the two recent\hurricanes, Charley and Frances.


Five Blue Demons reach double figures

CHICAGO (Ticker) -- No. 16 DePaul had five players reach double figures in a 99-54 victory over Loyola-Chicago. DePaul freshman Erin Carney tallied her first double-double with 22 points and 16 rebounds.


Going price for network of zombie PCs:  #36;2,000- #36;3,000 (USATODAY.com)

USATODAY.com - In the calculus of Internet crime, two of the most sought-after commodities are zombie PCs and valid e-mail addresses.


Bryant Accuser's Attorneys Boost Client (AP)

AP - Attorneys for the woman accusing Kobe Bryant of rape went on a public relations offensive Tuesday, appearing on network television to bolster her public image and dispel speculation that a settlement is in the works in her civil lawsuit against the NBA star.


Sony to sell large-screen LCD projection TVs in China (AFP)

AFP - Global electronics giant Sony will launch its popular projection televisions with large LCD screens in China early next year, a company official said.


Selig Would Welcome Government #39;s Help in Tougher Drug Testing

While the leadership of the Major League Baseball Players Association remained silent on the issue of a harsher steroid-testing program following the first day of its annual meetings in Phoenix, Commissioner Bud Selig continued his public campaign to


Mortgage Applications at 4-Month High (Reuters)

Reuters - New applications for U.S. home loans\rose last week to their highest level in four months even\though mortgage rates ticked upward from their recent lows, an\industry group said on Wednesday.


Mobile phones push Bouygues profits up 92 percent (AFP)

AFP - Bouygues, the French construction group which has diversified into television and mobile telephones, reported a 92-percent leap of first-half net profits, owing mainly to strong mobile telephone performance.


African poverty summit opens in Burkina Faso (AFP)

AFP - Heads of state from 17 African countries attended the opening of an African Union summit in Burkina Faso to craft a jobs creation plan to lift hundreds of millions out of poverty.


Seminoles' Beitia Gets Another Chance (AP)

AP - Xavier Beitia is the latest in a line of Florida State kickers to come up short  #151; or more specifically, wide  #151; in the clutch against Miami.


Fruit Prices May Go Up, But Growers Still Hurt

Hurricane damage could make battered Florida grapefruit growers the beneficiaries of a bidding war between domestic and international buyers.


BA sale of Qantas stake foreshadows alliance shakeup - analysts (AFP)

AFP - British Airways (BA) said it would sell its 1.1 billion dollar (770 million US) stake in Australia's Qantas in a move seen as likely to fuel a major realignment of airline alliances.


McDonald's Same-Store Sales Rose 3.9 Pct

CHICAGO (Reuters) - McDonald's Corp. MCD.N on Wednesday  said worldwide sales at its namesake restaurants open more than  a year rose 3.9 percent in August, helped by strong sales of  new menu items like fried chicken strips.


Francis, Late Holiday Hit Chain Sales

NEW YORK (Reuters) - U.S. chain store sales in the first  week of September finished flat, due in part to a later Labor  Day and Hurricane Francis, a report said on Wednesday.


Philips' athletic MP3 player hits the track

Monitors performance to the sound of Chariots of Fire


Fireworks in Store as Agassi Takes on Federer

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Andre Agassi, darling of the New York  crowd, meets world No. 1 Roger Federer in a mouthwatering  quarter-final at the U.S. Open on Wednesday as the year's final  grand slam bursts into life.


Texting teens use SMS for help

Talking to youngsters in the language of text could increase their access to services.


Salton's Quarterly Loss Widens

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Salton Inc. SFP.N, a maker of  household appliances, on Wednesday reported wider quarterly  losses as hefty restructuring charges more than offset higher  revenue.


Mortgage Applications at 4-Month High

NEW YORK (Reuters) - New applications for U.S. home loans  rose last week to their highest level in four months even  though mortgage rates ticked upward from their recent lows, an  industry group said on Wednesday.


Progress Seen in Animal-To-Human Organ Transplants (Reuters)

Reuters - Animal-to-human organ transplants could\be at the dawn of a new era thanks to progress in overcoming\rejection and the creation of transgenic pigs, an expert said\Tuesday.


Scientists Skirt Ice, Politics in the Arctic (Reuters)

Reuters - The ship crawled\through the fog as if on a slow tour of frozen ruins, trying to\avoid ice chunks of every size and shape off Russia's far\northeastern coast.


Music merger boosts Bertelsmann

Bertelsmann, the world's fourth-largest media company, sees profits surge during the first half of 2004, lifted by its music and TV businesses.


BBC in talks on Worldwide future

The BBC holds talks with Bertelsmann, Walt Disney and Time Warner but denies that the talks focused on the sale of BBC Worldwide.


World Bank praises Slovak reforms

Slovakia and Colombia are the countries who have improved their business climates the most in the past year, a World Bank report says.


Invesco deal ends US funds probe

Invesco Funds Group and affiliate AIM agree to pay \$450m to settle allegations of improper trading, their UK owner Amvescap says.


A look back -- in tribute

NEW YORK -- She was out there all alone. A few friends, some well-wishers, a scattering of the curious. But essentially Althea Gibson was soloing on the trail she blazed, and surely she was a curiosity. Her height and long limbs had something to do with it. More so, though, looking down on foes -- many of whom looked down ...


Denis Chevrier explains the challenge of Monza

The Engine Operations Manager explains what challenges Monza will pose the engine team this weekend.


Stop and start suits Citroen

The French carmaker PSA Peugeot Citron sought to strengthen its green credentials yesterday with the launch of a new system that cuts petrol consumption and emissions by automatically switching off the engine at traffic lights or in queues.


Red Hat updates Enterprise Linux and Unisys alliance

Red Hat Inc. has announced the general release of the third update to its Enterprise Linux operating system, as well as a new partnership with recent Linux convert Unisys Corp.


Palestinian killed in car blast as Israeli forces take control of <b>...</b>

A car exploded Wednesday in the occupied West Bank, killing the Palestinian driver. The car exploded about 200 metres from an Israeli occupation military checkpoint, not far from the nortern West Bank village of Baqa al Sharqia.


Foreign leaders, royals arrive for Brunei crown prince #39;s wedding

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN : A glittering array of foreign leaders and royal figures began arriving in Brunei for the grand wedding of the heir to the throne of the oil-rich sultanate.


Intel Demonstrates New Chips

Intel Corp. President Paul S. Otellini yesterday demonstrated new chips scheduled for release next year that simultaneously run tasks such as burning CDs and playing video games, as he sought to allay concerns about product delays. -Bloomberg News


Profiling Technology Speeds Up Fast Food

A Pittsburgh start-up, HyperActive Technologies Inc., is testing technology at area fast-food restaurants designed to give kitchen workers a good indication of what customers want before the hungry souls even get close enough to place an order. -AP


Getting Out Of Biotech's Second Tier

If you added all the biotech activity that industry executives and local officials across the country have forecast for the next decade, my guess is the industry would be roughly the size of the Chinese economy.


Netflix, TiVo Aim to Offer Online Service

Home entertainment trendsetters Netflix Inc. and TiVo Inc. hope to link up on a service that will use high-speed Internet connections to pipe DVD-quality movies into the homes of their mutual subscribers.


Smart Phone Market Growing More Crowded

The smart phone market will grow more crowded Wednesday with the debut of two devices directed at opposite ends of the customer spectrum: a BlackBerry for consumers with a newfangled keyboard and a Nokia phone-organizer for mobile business professionals.


Stealthy doom floats up on mink

A new floating mink trap developed in the UK incarcerates the predators while letting other species go free.


Surf Wirelessly at Dialup Speed

Hoping to extend wireless internet access to people without broadband, a Texas company is introducing a base station that works with any dialup connection. But don't expect it to make pages load any faster. By Elisa Batista.


Pilots reject US Air #39;s new offer

US Airways (UAIR) executives Tuesday held out hope of reaching a key money-saving deal with pilots, despite a major setback late Monday.


IDF: Complete Intel processor lineup to migrate to dual-cores in <b>...</b>

Intels complete lineup of processors for desktops, notebooks and servers will migrate to a dual- and multi-core architecture in 2005, company president and chief operating officer Paul Otellini said yesterday in a keynote speech at the IDF (Intel


Stunt pilots prepare mid-air snatch of space capsule

PASADENA, CALIF. - Helicopter stunt pilots from Hollywood will attempt a tricky mid-air capture Wednesday, as they try to snag the returning Genesis spacecraft and its collection of solar dust.


SPACE PROGRAM NASA #39;s Shuttle Hanger Badly Damaged by Storm

The gigantic hangar where the space shuttle is prepared for its missions sustained much more damage from Hurricane Frances than initially believed, NASA officials said Tuesday.


Hitachi broadens virtual storage horizons

Hitachi Data Systems (HDS) has today launched a high-end Raid storage platform and software offering complex data management. The TagmaStore Universal Storage Platform (USP) is designed to provide up to 32


Peugeot Unveils Fuel-Saving Stop  amp; Start System

France #39;s biggest carmaker, PSA Peugeot-Citroen, unveiled a new system on Tuesday to reduce emissions and save fuel by allowing drivers to cut their engines when they are not moving.


Online gaming for Star Trek fans

STAR Trek fans will be able to boldly go online to take part in new worldwide multiplayer game. Games company Perpetual Entertainment has secured the exclusive worldwide rights from Viacom Consumer Products


What #39;s next, since Singh has officially surpassed Woods?

Vijay Singh made official what we #39;ve known for at least a year, there #39;s nothing wrong with the world rankings, Jack Nicklaus never went through a period like this, and Tiger #39;s  quot;slump, quot; while bad for TV ratings, hints at a new, exciting period in men #39;s golf


Open-Fireworks in store as Agassi takes on Federer

Andre Agassi, darling of the New York crowd, meets world number one Roger Federer in a mouthwatering quarter-final at the US Open on Wednesday as the year #39;s final grand slam bursts into life.


Gibbs Has Redskins Looking Back to the Future

When Joe Gibbs last coached in the NFL in the 1992 season there were no teams in Jacksonville or Carolina. Much has changed on the sporting landscape since, though with a new season


SA must improve productivity - IMF

International Monetary Fund (IMF) managing director Rodrigo de Rato said that formidable challenges existed in South Africa #39;s economy and that the country needed to increase its growth rate for unemployment to erode.


Business Watch

Ellis Park in Henderson, Ky., will return to a five-day race week next year amid complaints that six days of racing each week hurt field sizes and turned off bettors.


Perpetual Entertainment to beam up Star Trek MMORPG

San Francisco developer/publisher lands coveted Paramount sci-fi license, \$6.5 million in funding on same day. Although it is less than two years old, Perpetual Entertainment has acquired one of the most coveted sci-fi licenses on the market.


England too comfortable

and if Sven Goran Eriksson selects him against Poland tonight, as I expect he will, the coach will have no excuses if his keeper blows it again.


Mickelson signs on as face of Callaway

The Carlsbad golf company said yesterday that it has signed Phil Mickelson, the reigning Masters champ, to a long-term deal to use and endorse its equipment.


Five tech firms face crossroads

Netflix, PalmSource, Research In Motion, TiVo and Vonage have great products and were first to market, but can they hold their leads?


Rosedale chips fuel Intel's WiMax drive

SAN FRANCISCO -- Intel Corp. expects its first-generation WiMax chips to spawn devices for wireless broadband end-users that cost less than \$200 and won't require a visit by a service provider, a company executive said Tuesday.


Ion Appoints Outside Managers After Banks Cut Credit (Update4)

Ion Ltd., an Australian auto parts maker that supplies Ford Motor Co., appointed outside managers after banks cut off its credit because it spent too much expanding in the US and Australia.


Frances blows down Federated sales, profits

Hurricane Frances will hurt sales and profits at Federated Department Stores Inc., the retailer said Tuesday. The Lazarus-Macy #39;s parent estimates it will lose \$20 million in sales, while


Gunmen Take Three Hostage at Ugandan Ministry (Reuters)

Reuters - A small group of suspected\gunmen stormed Uganda's Water Ministry Wednesday and took three\people hostage to protest against proposals to allow President\Yoweri Museveni for a third term.\Police and soldiers with assault rifles cordoned off the\three-story building, just 328 feet from Uganda's parliament\building in the capital Kampala.


Stocks Set to Open Lower; Greenspan Eyed

NEW YORK (Reuters) - U.S. stocks were headed lower on  Wednesday as investors await remarks by Federal Reserve  Chairman Alan Greenspan and may take some profits a day after  major indexes rose to 2-month highs.


Stocks to Watch Wednesday

Piper Jaffray downgraded the software maker's stock to  "market perform" from "outperform."


Lenovo Confirms Acquisition Talks

China #39;s largest personal computer maker, Lenovo Group Ltd., said on Tuesday it was in acquisition talks with a major technology company, which a source familiar with the situation said was IBM.


Israel's Sharon Agrees to Changes to W. Bank Barrier

JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Prime Minister Ariel Sharon agreed to  changes in the route of Israel's West Bank barrier on Monday  but insisted on keeping key Jewish settlement blocks inside,  political sources said.


Gunmen Take Three Hostage at Ugandan Ministry

KAMPALA, Uganda (Reuters) - A small group of suspected  gunmen stormed Uganda's Water Ministry Wednesday and took three  people hostage to protest against proposals to allow President  Yoweri Museveni for a third term.  Police and soldiers with assault rifles cordoned off the  three-story building, just 328 feet from Uganda's parliament  building in the capital Kampala.


IMF Sees Robust U.S. Growth

\

 OUAGADOUGOU (Reuters) - Robust U.S. economic growth will\likely continue into 2005, but authorities should cut the\budget deficit to reduce the risk to growth, International\Monetary Fund Managing Director Rodrigo Rato said.


Up to 120 Girls Defy French Head Scarf Ban

PARIS - Some 100 to 120 girls have defied a new law banning Islamic head scarves in classrooms and are in talks with school officials trying to convince them to remove the head coverings, Education Minister Francois Fillon said Wednesday.    It was the first complete figure made public since the start of the school year last Thursday...


Coroner Discussing Gun Safety Shoots Self

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. - Monroe County Coroner David Toumey was hospitalized with a leg wound after accidentally shooting himself while trying to demonstrate gun safety...


US Stock-Index Futures Decline; Dow Stocks Drop in Europe

US stock-index futures declined before Alan Greenspan #39;s presentation to Congress, where the Federal Reserve chairman may restate his commitment to a measured #39; #39; increase in borrowing costs.


US old-timers engineer own version of miracle

High up among the many empty seats at the Xcel Energy Center last night sat a small knot of Russian fans holding a large banner that read Miracle is over.


Czechs, please, as Swedes made to pay

Any suggestions the Czech Republic lacked the necessary commitment to advance in the World Cup of Hockey were erased yesterday when it stunned an overwhelmed Swedish team in Stockholm.


Teenager will play in heady company

Darren Wallace is used to doing things ahead of schedule. He was hitting golf balls in his backyard as an 18-month-old and played his first 18 holes of golf -- albeit on a par-three course -- on his third birthday.


Violence continues unabated in Iraq

US warplanes bombarded Fallujah Wednesday as fighting continued intermittently in a Baghdad neighborhood between US forces and Shiite gunmen.


UN officials say Palestinian girl shot by Israeli troops while in <b>...</b>

GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip UN officials say a ten-year-old Palestinian girl is in critical condition after being shot in the head by Israeli forces while sitting in school.


More bodies from Indonesian ship found

: Japan #39;s coast guard on Wednesday found five more bodies from an Indonesian cargo ship that ran aground during a powerful typhoon, bringing the death toll for the ship to 11.


British soldier charged with murdering Iraqi

London -- For the first time, British authorities have charged a soldier with murder in the death of a civilian in Iraq, indicting him in civilian court yesterday after a commanding officer blocked a court-martial.


Thatcher Called to Answer Investigators on Coup Plot Sept. 22

Mark Thatcher, arrested in South Africa last month on suspicion of bankrolling a failed coup in Equatorial Guinea, has been summonsed to answer questions by investigators from the west African nation on Sept.


No genocide in Darfur, Sudanese minister says

Sudan #39;s foreign minister said on Thursday that there was no ethnic cleansing or genocide in the country #39;s Darfur region and rejected a United Nations estimate that 50,000 people have been killed.


SK Telecom previews file sharing for 3G phones

BUSAN, SOUTH KOREA -- South Korean mobile operator SK Telecom Co. Ltd. previewed a file-sharing application for cell phones this week that will let users swap files, including ring tones, music and videos over its 3G (third-generation) network.


EU delays disputed GMO decision, says time not ripe

The European Commission put off Wednesday a controversial decision on levels of genetically-modified organisms (GMO) in seeds in the EU, in a move welcomed by environmental lobbyists.