Legendary Nottingham Forest manager Brian Clough said last week that losing Forest #39;s 42-game unbeaten record to Arsenal stuck in the craw  quot;because nobody likes them quot;, but surely that is not true.

Arsenal #39;s winning ways a joy


NEW YORK - Tens of thousands of demonstrators marched past the Madison Square Garden site of the Republican National Convention on Sunday, chanting, blowing whistles and carrying anti-war banners as delegates gathered to nominate President Bush for a second term.    On the eve of the convention, the demonstrators packed the street from sidewalk to sidewalk for 20 blocks as they slowly filed past...

Thousands Hit NYC Streets; Cheney Arrives


If you always forget to scan for viruses, update virus protection, run Disk Defragmenter, or run any other system tool, look to the Task Scheduler for help.

Windows Tip: Scheduled Tasks written by Greg Melton on Monday <b>...</b>


Peace talks between Darfur rebels and the Sudanese Government have resumed after a 24-hour boycott by rebels who accused Khartoum of violating a ceasefire by killing 75 civilians in six villages.

Sudan peace talks resume


Former BBC chief Greg Dyke has reopened the row over Tony Blair #39;s decision to go to war with Iraq. Dyke was forced to resign from his post, along with former BBC chairman Gavyn Davies, last January after Lord

Dyke reopens WMD row


AP - A group of moderate Republicans, many long out of office, called on President Bush and the Republican party to

Moderate Republicans Criticize Bush (AP)


Host city Athens bid a final farewell to the athletes and guests of the 2004 Summer Games with a spectacular party under a full moon.

Closing Ceremonies


China launched an experimental satellite into orbit Sunday, atop a Long March 2C carrier rocket; reported Xinhua, China #39;s government-run news agency.

China launches science satellite


New York Yankees right fielder Gary Sheffield missed Sunday #39;s against the Toronto Blue Jays with a sprained left ankle. Sheffield is listed as day to day.

Sheffield day to day with sprained left ankle


NEW DELHI, AUG 29: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Sunday congratulated the scientists and engineers for the successful launch of the Agni II missile.

PM Hails Successful Launch Of Agni II


Italian Stefano Baldini has won the men #39;s marathon in a time of 2:10:54. Naturalized American Meb Keflezighi was a surprise runnerup with Brazil #39;s Vanderlei Lima finishing third.

Italian Wins Marathon... US Finishes Second


Eli Manning remains the New York Giants' quarterback of the future. For now, the job belongs to Kurt Warner.

Warner Will Start for Giants in Opener


As Greeks get a boost, it remains unclear if success will mean higher stature in Europe. By Peter Ford  Staff writer of The Christian Science Monitor.

A  #39;new Greece #39; beams after success of Games


Spain #39;s Miguel Angel Jimenez won the BMW Open, his fourth title on the European tour this season, and Colin Montgomerie was one of six golfers to claim Ryder Cup berths Sunday.

Jimenez wins BMW Open with final-round 66


Contrary to popular belief, the power never really snapped back at SkyDome on Sunday. The lights came on after an hour delay, but it took some extra time for the batting orders to provide some extra wattage.

Jays power up to take finale


AP - Lleyton Hewitt and Lindsay Davenport could earn up to  #36;500,000 extra at the U.S. Open because they finished atop the inaugural US Open Series standings.

Hewitt, Davenport Top US Open Standings (AP)


Microsoft is shaking up its plans for the next version of Windows to get the software off the drawing board and into PCs by the end of 2006.

Microsoft revamps its plans for Longhorn


At least seven people have been killed in a bomb blast in central Kabul - the second deadly explosion in Afghanistan over the weekend.

SEVEN KILLED IN KABUL BLOODSHED


Canada and the United States have failed to reach an agreement on resuming US imports of Canadian live cattle, local press reported Sunday.

Canada, US fail to resolve beef trade dispute


AP - Troy Glaus was activated from the 60-day disabled list Sunday by the Anaheim Angels and was back in the lineup against the Minnesota Twins.

Angels' Glaus Activated From DL (AP)


More that three years since he threw his last pitch for the St. Louis Cardinals, Ankiel gave up one unearned run and one hit in six innings Sunday for Triple-A Memphis in what could be his final start in the minors.

Ankiel solid in rehab start, unsure about future


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Fasten your seatbelts. The Republicans  are in town. If things go smoothly at the Republican National  Convention, the stock market could get a brief boost this week,  experts say.

GOP Jamboree May Give Stocks Brief Lift


TOKYO (Reuters) - Japanese stocks were flat in mid-morning  trade on Monday with confidence in the domestic economic  outlook failing to offset profit-taking that hit recent gainers  such as insurers and real estate stocks.

Tokyo Stocks Flat, Focus on Data


AP - China on Sunday launched a satellite that will carry out land surveying and other scientific projects for several days and return to Earth, government media reported.

China Launches Mapping Satellite (AP)


Federal-Mogul Corp., the bankrupt US engineering company, may sell its UK-based Turner  amp; Newall Plc after the UK division #39;s independent pension trustee rejected a \$130 million cash offer

Federal-Mogul May Sell Turner  amp; Newall Assets, Independent Says


The American military met for five hours on Sunday with representatives of the rebellious cleric Moktada al-Sadr in the volatile Baghdad Shiite neighborhood of Sadr

GI #39;s in Talks With Rebels of Sadr Stronghold in Baghdad


Iraq's interim prime minister said that he had held private meetings with representatives of insurgent groups from Fallujah, Ramadi and Samarra to  persuade them to accept a government amnesty offer.

Allawi Meets Militants, Pushes Amnesty


Britain #39;s Kelly Holmes and Morocco #39;s Hicham El Guerrouj earned their places among Olympic athletic legends here on Saturday as they won their second golds of the Games.

El Guerrouj, Holmes book spots in Olympic Pantheon


Although the Beijing Olympics is still four years away, the Chinese capital is already gearing up to host the event. The city of over 12 million is refurbishing ancient landmarks in

Beijing gears up for 2008


The first pick in the NFL draft last April will be the first QB off the bench for the Giants as Eli Manning lost the competition for the starting job to veteran Kurt Warner.

Warner Gets the Nod


If you read the recent excerpt of

New Namath Book Is Fact, Not Fiction


Halfway around the world, standing virtually in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, the incomparable Timmy Chang is just days away from throwing his first pass of the season. From my tattered sofa, I will be watching him. I want you to watch him, too.

Mr. Chang, Strike a Pose


Roger Federer says he #39;s ready to erase the image as being too soft to win in New York. The world #39;s No. 1 player from Switzerland has played three US Opens and lost in the fourth round each time.

ROGER #39;S READY


NEW YORK, (Aug. 30, 2004) - Cattle farmers and haulers finally looking for a quick end to a 15-month ban on live cattle exports to the US are out of luck after Canadian Agriculture Minister Andy Mitchell

Still no beef resolution after latest talks


In October, most major cellphone carriers plan to start compiling a publicly accessible listing of wireless phone numbers.

For Now, Unwired Means Unlisted. That May Change.


The medal ceremony had ended. Van Chancellor had already shed a few tears, but he had held his emotions together through all the hugs and dancing, even through the victory

Women #39;s basketball team finds special place in Chancellor #39;s heart


Islamabad, :A new Cabinet in Pakistan is likely to be sworn in on Monday, two days after Finance Minister Shaukat Aziz was made the country #39;s 23rd Prime Minister.

New Pakistan cabinet may be sworn in today


This article discusses Network Access Quarantine Control in Windows Server 2003, which allows administrators to quarantine mobile users and verify their security posture before giving them full access to the network. Part 2 of 2.

Infocus: Deploying Network Access Quarantine Control, Part 2


One of the men who survived Friday #39;s fatal scaffold collapse is in guarded condition at Detroit Receiving Hospital and the two other survivors were released on Sunday, a hospital spokeswoman said.

Scaffold collapse survivors improving


AFP - Opinion polls give Australia's opposition Labor Party a big lead over Prime Minister John Howard's conservative government as campaigning begins for October 9 elections, but analysts say the real race is still too close to call.

Pollsters refuse to write off Australian PM despite lag in polls (AFP)


Santander says it aims to complete its takeover of UK mortgage lender Abbey one month sooner than originally planned.

Santander accelerates Abbey bid


Greece tried to pass the Olympics baton off to Beijing on Sunday night, but it was a tough job. The Chinese are way ahead of the curve already.

A blazing start for Beijing


When it comes to giving up long balls, Red Sox pitcher Tim Wakefield has a short memory. Just three weeks after he surrendered a club-record six home

Wakefield goes deep this time


Times like these make grown men talk to televisions.  quot;C'mon, guys, get the darn out, quot; Pedro Martinez shouted at a big screen in the Red Sox clubhouse yesterday as he watched the Blue Jays try to finish off the Yankees with two outs and the potential winning run at the plate in the ninth inning in Toronto.

Hot pursuit


SAN MATEO, Calif. -- The promise of Internet-based video has long been hamstrung by copyright and piracy worries, slow dial-up connections, technical challenges, and consumer disdain for watching blotchy videos on their home computers.

On TV -- from the Internet


The sensation of the Olympic boxing tournament learned yesterday that there #39;s no substitute for experience. At least not in the ring.

Youngster Khan taken to school


The Kerry Packer-backed Challenger Financial Services Group has reported its first net loss since incorporating, impacted by a massive writedown of goodwill.

Challenger disappoints with writedown


Description: A flurry of corporate bankruptcies in the past few years leaves a public agency strapped for cash: the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation.

Corporate Failures Hurt Pension Guaranty Group


Second baseman Mark Bellhorn stats, news issued the closing statement in the Red Sox stats, schedule #39; four-game sweep of the Detroit Tigers yesterday at Fenway Park.

Bellhorn makes plenty of noise: Big


Intel creates a more powerful memory chip without increasing its size, confounding the firm's critics.

Intel in new chip breakthrough


NEW DELHI: Indias quest to develop a solid missile defence took a step forward today when it successfully test-fired the surface-to-surface Agni-II missile, which can cover targets in the 2000-2500 kms-range, from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at

Going ballistic: Agni-II test fired


AFP - A 155-strong company of Nigerian infantry flew out of Abuja, heading for the war-torn western Sudanese region of Darfur to join an African Union force protecting ceasefire monitors.

Nigerian troops set off on AU peace mission to Darfur (AFP)


PERTH (Dow Jones)--Sons of Gwalia Ltd. (SGW.AU), Australia #39;s second-biggest gold producer, has fallen into administration over aA\$348 million hedge book liability.

UPDATE: Sons Of Gwalia In Administration On Hedging Debt


As the Notting Hill Carnival enters its final day, police say they are pleased with how it has gone so far. About 250,000 people took to the streets on Sunday - more than double the first day last year - to celebrate 40 years of the west London event.

Carnival crowds likely to top 1m


Powerful Typhoon Chaba has plowed into southern Japan, sweeping at least four people to their deaths and injuring more than 30 as it knocked out power to thousands.

Typhoon Chaba Kills Four in Japan


HANOI (Reuters) - Vietnam has released nearly 9,000  prisoners, including 10 inmates whose cases it says had drawn  international attention, as part of traditional pardons granted  ahead of independence celebrations on September 2.

Vietnam Marks Independence with Pardons for Prisoners


SYDNEY Sons of Gwalia, the world #39;s leading supplier of tantalum, appointed outside managers on Monday after failing to reach agreement with creditors.

Mining concern names outside managers


Deputy Prime Minister and Finance-Economy Minister Lee Hun-jai said Monday the nation #39;s current economic lethargy is due to unsubstantiated uncertainty #39; #39; about the future, which in turn weakens the confidence of market players.

Minister Lee Says Uncertainty Deepens Economic Lethargy


Departing Newcastle boss Sir Bobby Robson has spoken of his regret at not being able to complete his mission after being relieved of his duties today.

Robson  #39; Massively Disappointed #39; at Newcastle Exit


Swedish engineering company Atlas Copco said Monday it will sell its electric tool business to Hong Kong-based Techtronic Industries Co.

Atlas Copco to Sell Electric Tool Business


A top aide to Iraq #39;s rebel Shi #39;ite leader Muqtada al-Sadr Monday called on the Mehdi Army militia to cease fire across Iraq and said Sadr was preparing to announce plans for a major political program.

Sadr Aide Tells Iraq Militia to Cease Fire -TV


Roland Piquepaille writes  quot;A small Santa Clara-based company, Orion Multisystems, today unveils a new concept in computing,  #39;cluster workstations.

96 Processors Under Your Desktop


A defrocked Irish priest who attacked the leader during yesterdays Olympic marathon was given a one year suspended sentence in Athens today.

Defrocked Priest Gets Suspended Sentence for Marathon Attack


HONG KONG (Dow Jones)--China Petroleum  amp; Chemical Corp. (SNP), the country #39;s second-largest oil and gas producer, Monday reported a 51 jump in first-half earnings and said it plans to boost its refining capacity by about one-fifth over three years.

UPDATE:Sinopec 1H Pft Up 51; To Raise Refining Capacity


US consumer spending rebounded in July, a sign the economy may be emerging from an early summer decline. Consumer spending rose 0.8 last month, boosted by car and retail sales.

Rebound in US consumer spending


AP - A senior Israeli diplomat in Washington has met with a Pentagon analyst being investigated by the FBI on suspicion he passed classified information to Israel, Israeli officials confirmed Monday.

Israeli Held Meetings With U.S. Analyst (AP)


WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. housing industry economists on  Monday cautioned that rapid house price gains in some areas of  the country may not be sustainable.

Regional House Price Declines Possible


pinkUZI writes  quot;Intel will announce that it has crammed 500 million transistors on to a single memory chip, shrinking them in size by 30.

Intel Shrinks Transistor Size By 30


US Airways #39; (UAIR:Nasdaq - news - research) shares jumped almost 20 on news that management and pilots were back at the table, trying to hammer out an agreement on work concessions to save the company.

US Airways Up on Labor Talks


AP - NBA star Kobe Bryant arrived at his sexual assault trial Monday as attorneys in the case who spent the weekend poring over questionnaires prepared to question potential jurors individually.

Bryant Makes First Appearance at Trial (AP)


England striker Michael Owen said his lack of Spanish and Ronaldo #39;s lack of English did not hinder celebrations of the Brazilian #39;s matchwinner for Real Madrid in Sunday #39;s 1-0 win at Mallorca.

Language of goals what counts for tongue-tied Ronnie and Michael


NEW YORK (Reuters) - U.S. oil prices fell more than \$1 on  Monday on continued profit-taking as producer-group OPEC eyed  increases in the coming months in its tight spare capacity,  countering worries over stumbling Iraqi oil exports.

Oil Drops Below \$42 a Barrel


BAGHDAD, Iraq - Rebel Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr called for his followers across Iraq to end fighting against U.S. and Iraqi forces and is planning to join the political process in the coming days, an al-Sadr aide said Monday...

Al-Sadr Calls on Militia to Stop Fighting


Regional Home Price Drop Possible


Manchester, England (Sports Network) - Manchester United #39;s struggle continued on Monday when they failed to score in a 0-0 tie with Everton at Old Trafford.

Man U. and Everton play to scoreless draw


NEW YORK (AP) -- Sen. John McCain said Monday it was fair game to criticize Democrat John Kerry's anti-war protests three decades ago, firing an opening salvo as Republicans at their national convention sought to portray President Bush as a strong wartime leader.

GOP Sharpens Attacks As Convention Opens


KABUL (Masnet  amp; News Agencies) - At least eleven people, including two US citizens, were killed when a truck bomb exploded in downtown Kabul in the second deadly blast to strike Afghanistan over the weekend.

11 Dead in a Car Bomb in Kabul


The growing threat of hackers and viruses has prompted Microsoft to roll out a billion- dollar upgrade of its Windows computer operating system to strengthen security.

Microsoft spends 1bn to keep out the hackers


Juniper Networks (Quote, Chart) has launched a new initiative designed to improve interoperability of popular third-party antivirus and firewall measures with its own Secure Socket Layer (define) Virtual Private Network (define) appliances.

Juniper Takes Security to Endpoints


AP - An unsettling report on consumer incomes set off a spate of profit-taking on Wall Street Monday as investors worried that a tepid economy would erode companies' third-quarter earnings. Another drop in oil prices failed to shake the gloom from the market.

Stocks Dip on Consumer Income Report News (AP)


CHICAGO (Reuters) - U.S. securities regulators are  investigating United Rentals Inc. <A HREF=

SEC Probes United Rentals, Shares Drop


GROZNY, Russia (Reuters) - Chechnya's new leader vowed on  Monday to rebuild the shattered region and crush extremists,  after winning an election condemned by rights groups as a  stage-managed show and by Washington as seriously flawed.

New Chechen Leader Vows Peace, Poll Criticized


The arrest of Margaret Thatcher's son last week is the latest example of a crackdown on overthrows.

Africa takes tough stand on coups


WASHINGTON - The Abu Ghraib prisoner abuse scandal could effectively end the careers of four Army generals who are linked indirectly to the misconduct but face no criminal charges.    The four are singled out for varying degrees of criticism - mixed with instances of praise - in two comprehensive investigative reports released last week...

Generals May Pay a Price for Iraq Abuse


CIO confidence is up in third quarter, according to Forrester poll.

Survey: IT spending to grow modestly next year


Linspire CEO points out that recent TV ads serve as indication of acceptance in mainstream populace.

Coming to a TV near you: Ads for desktop Linux


ALEX RAE was in hospital yesterday for a scan on his injured knee after playing through the pain barrier in Sunday #39;s Old Firm clash.

FOOTBALL: RAE KNEE SCAN HAS MCLEISH IN A SWEAT


NEAR daily attacks on pipelines and pumping stations had pushed down Iraq #39;s oil exports to their lowest point in nearly a year, Britain #39;s Financial Times newspaper reported today.

Iraqi oil exports slump: report


SYDNEY (Dow Jones)--Australian television broadcaster Seven Network Ltd. (SEV) said Tuesday net profit jumped 59 to A\$93.3 million for the fiscal year ended June 26, boosted by profit proceeds from the sell down of its stake in B Digital.

Australia #39;s Seven FY Net Jumps 59 To A\$93.3M -2-


Workers at the Ford plant in Hapeville are getting a second unexpected day off during the dog days of summer. The company has stopped assembly-line production at the plant today because of a continued parts shortage, a Ford official said.

Parts pinch shuts down Ford plant


Orion Multisystems, a new company founded by former Transmeta (Quote, Chart) executives, debuted a family of workstations Monday that think and act like a cluster of servers.

Orion Debuts Cluster Workstation


AT amp;T is attracted to Voice over IP because Internet telephony is cheaper to offer to businesses and consumers and requires less upfront investment than the old copper wire and traditional switching networks.

AT amp;T Embraces Voice-over-Internet Telephony


After another disappointing road trip - the White Sox were 3-4 on a swing through Detroit and Cleveland - a day off sure would look enticing.

Off-day would have been welcomed by Sox


KANSAS CITY, Mo., Aug. 30 -- Twinkie maker Interstate Bakeries Corp. on Monday delayed filing its annual report for the second time, a move that dragged shares lower by more than 42 percent on speculation about the company #39;s ongoing viability.

Maker of Twinkies Delays Filing Annual Report, Hires Turnaround <b>...</b>


The Ministry of Defense confirmed yesterday that China #39;s military had withdrawn most of its troops from Dongshan Island where it was to hold an annual war game, but would not say if the action indicated Beijing was calling off the maneuvers that simulate

MND confirms China pulling troops from drill


The hysterical tone of Daniel Seidemann #39;s plea to the next US administration to save Israel from itself serves no useful purpose op-ed, Aug. 26.

A Better Solution for Israel


AP - Even with a big lead in the NL East, the Atlanta Braves aren't taking anything for granted.

Braves Rally to Defeat Giants 7-6 (AP)


AP - Prospective jurors in the Kobe Bryant rape case were asked their feelings on racial prejudice, interracial relationships, marital infidelity and justice for the rich and famous in an 82-item questionnaire released Monday.

Bryant Jury Selection Behind Closed Doors (AP)


Tech companies waiting for a big resurgence in spending on computer hardware, software, networks and staff better plan to wait about four more years, Forrester Research projected yesterday.

IT seeing steady but slow growth: Forrester projects 7 percent <b>...</b>


The Japanese information services industry clocked up sales of 13,703.9 billion yen in fiscal 2001, according to a report on selected service industries for 2001 released by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI).

Japan should outsource more


Joe Borchard wows the crowd with the longest homer in the 14-year history of U.S. Cellular Field as the White Sox edge the Phillies 9-8.

White Sox Edge Phillies


Many studies have linked the consumption of nondiet soda and fruit juices with added sugars to obesity and attendant risks of diabetes.

ANOTHER VOICE Sugary drinks bad for you


Who would have thought that the Dallas Cowboys #39; offense would be the least of coach Bill Parcells problems? After cutting their starting quarterback in training camp, signing a controversial

Testaverde accepts Parcells #39; nomination


Reuters - Australian police acting as part of an\international

Australia Police to Trap Cyberspace Pedophiles (Reuters)


The Mets #39; objective, Fred Wilpon said last winter and into the spring, was to play meaningful games late into the season. The owner was confident his revamped team could compete for first place

Marlins keep pace in wild-card race


Former Yugoslav President Slobodan Milosevic opened his long-delayed defense at the Yugoslav war crimes tribunal Tuesday, describing the battles of his Serbian people as self defense against internal rebellions and external attacks by Islamic warriors.

Milosevic opens his defense case, starting second half of his <b>...</b>


Troy Brown didn't play any defense against Carolina in Saturday night's exhibition game. Thing is, he didn't play much offense or special teams, either.

Injury brings Brown down


Every year, public companies put a number of questions before their stockholders for a vote. Investors weigh in on whether to reelect company directors, reappoint auditors, and approve or kill plans to give big stock option packages to senior executives.

Starting today, funds' stances on proxies are matter of record


We spotlight people and products that pester us...and the heroes saving us from annoyances.

Hall of Shame   Hall of Fame


NBC and its family of cable networks flooded American households with nearly nonstop coverage of the Athens Olympics, and the strategy - along with strong performances by the US teams in swimming and gymnastics -roduced not only a ratings increase

Athens coverage a winner for NBC


A top Italian labor leader says his union could consider job cuts at Alitalia to prevent the airline #39;s collapse, as workers at the flag carrier clamored for details of its cost-cutting rescue plan.

Alitalia union may accept job cuts


USATODAY.com - The federal government is challenging an appeals court ruling that, officials fear, would stifle the expansion of cable broadband services by burdening the providers with new regulations.

FCC asks high court to rule on broadband (USATODAY.com)


AFP - Swiss banking group UBS said that it had paid 265 million dollars (219 million euros) to buy SoundView, the capital markets division of online broker Charles Schwab to strengthen its position on the US Nasdaq market.

UBS pays 265 million dollars for Schwab capital markets business (AFP)


While developers are naturally curious over tweaks to the Longhorn road map, many IT administrators barely take notice. Enterprise IT customers typically lag at least

Longhorn announcements barely a blimp on IT radar


Novell is reorganising its business to focus on two key areas - Linux and identity management. The networking software firm #39;s Nterprise and Linux operations will be folded into a Platform and Application Services group CRN reports.

Novell reshuffles biz for Linux focus


The British government has announced plans to send a top Foreign Office representative to North Korea in September. Junior Minister for East Asia Bill Rammell will become the first British minister to visit

British Minister to Visit North Korea in September


AP - Denver Broncos running back Mike Anderson will miss the entire season because of a groin injury sustained last weekend in an exhibition game against Houston.

Broncos Running Back Out for Entire Season (AP)


AFP - Apple Computers launched the newest version of its iMac model, which at two inches thick, is the world's thinnest desktop computer, the company said.

Apple unveils super thin iMac in Paris (AFP)


Reuters - Conditions for 1.2 million Sudanese\displaced in Darfur continue to worsen amid violent attacks,\spreading disease, and heavy rains which wreak havoc with aid\convoys, United Nations agencies said on Tuesday.

Conditions Worsen in Darfur, U.N. Agencies Say (Reuters)


Canadian Press - CANBERRA, Australia (AP) - Diplomats investigated Tuesday a report that an Australian oil engineer had been abducted in Yemen by armed tribesmen, but a conflicting report from Yemen said there was no kidnapping.

Australian employee of Canadian oil company reportedly abducted in Yemen (Canadian Press)


The European Union, Japan and Brazil won World Trade Organization backing to impose tariffs on US imports after Congress failed to end illegal corporate subsidies worth \$850 million since 2001.

EU, Japan Win WTO Approval to Impose Duties on US (Update2)


NEW YORK (CNN/Money) - The CEOs of the top 50 US companies that sent service jobs overseas pulled down far more pay than their counterparts at other large companies last year, a study said Tuesday.

Study: CEOs rewarded for outsourcing


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Hartford Financial Services Group Inc.  <A HREF=

Hartford Sees \$91 Mln in Charley Losses


There was little celebrating when Illinois men #39;s players found out they were ranked No. 1 in the nation yesterday afternoon. There was a game to play at night.

Roundup: Illini men rise to top of AP poll, win game


Greg Maddux pitched the Chicago Cubs into the lead in the NL wild-card race and gave Dusty Baker a win to remember. Maddux threw seven shutout innings for his 302nd career win, Baker got his 1,000th victory as a manager and Chicago beat the Montreal Expos 5-2 on Monday night...

Maddux Wins No. 302, Baker Wins No. 1,000


PARIS (Reuters) - Apple Computer unveiled, after a  two-month delay, its new iMac desktop computer on Tuesday which  integrates disk drives and processors into a flat display less  than two inches thick.

Apple's New iMac Computer Is All Display


PARIS Apple Computer engineered another design coup on Tuesday, unveiling a new iMac here that incorporates all of the personal computer #39;s innards into a flat-panel screen that balances on an aluminum stand.

New iMac packs computer into flat screen


Albertsons Inc. (ABS.N: Quote, Profile, Research) , the No. 2 US grocer, on Tuesday reported a substantial drop in its quarterly profit as heavy promotions

UPDATE 3-Albertsons hit by California strike; shares fall


MANHASSET, NY - Philips Electronics and Samsung Electronics have entered into a deal that will enable Samsung to deploy cellular devices using Philips #39; near-field communications chip and technology.

Samsung readies Philips #39; near-field communications for cellphones


Russian President Vladimir Putin today said the explosions that brought down two airliners in Russia a week ago were the work of terrorists linked to the al- Qaeda terrorist network.

Putin Says Plane Crashes Involved Terrorists Linked to Al-Qaeda


AP - Hurricane Frances strengthened as it churned near islands of the northeastern Caribbean with ferocious winds expected to graze Puerto Rico on Tuesday before the storm plows on toward the Bahamas and the southeastern United States.

Hurricane Frances Nears NE Caribbean (AP)


(Sports Network) - The Kansas City Royals try to get back on the winning track this evening when they continue their three-game series with the Detroit Tigers at Kauffman Stadium.

Kansas City Royals Team Report - August 31


(Sports Network) - The Montreal Expos were handed a setback in Monday #39;s opener at Olympic Stadium. Greg Maddux threw seven shutout innings and went 2-for-3 with an RBI at the plate to lead the Cubs to a 5-2 victory.

Montreal Expos Team Report - August 31


Hitachi, Toshiba and Matsushita Electric have formed a joint venture to manufacture large liquid-crystal displays for flat-screen televisions, escalating competition for a piece of the digital living room.

Japanese electronics giants in LCD joint venture


Microsoft said Friday that it is delaying the release of a new data-storage technology, named WinFS, from the next version of Windows, code-named Longhorn, in order to deliver the operating system by 2006.

Microsoft to delay advanced search technology from Longhorn


rebels struggle to make headway in talks aiming to ease the conflict in the Darfur region. sanctions on Sudan, by saying Moscow opposed sanctions.

Darfur conditions worsen


The universe looked a little more familiar and friendlier on Tuesday. The roll call of planets beyond the solar system swelled significantly with the announcement of a trio of newly discovered worlds much

Beyond solar system, planets that look familiar


Credit Suisse Group, Switzerland #39;s second-largest bank, said Tuesday it will combine its US-based Credit Suisse First Boston investment unit with its retail and private banking business within two years.

Credit Suisse to Combine US Unit


The technology hasn't been widely adopted, but spammers are taking it up at a faster rate than legitimate e-mailers.

Spammers use sender authentication too, study says


Upgraded version of this encryption app adds plenty of tools for networked users.

SafeGuard Offers Easy Hard-Drive Protection


AP - Ron Francis turned down a front-office job with the Carolina Hurricanes and is still deciding whether he wants to continue his playing career.

Francis Nixes Hurricanes' Front Office Job (AP)


ATHENS (Reuters) - Greek sprinters Costas Kenteris and  Katerina Thanou have been dope tested by doctors from the World  Anti-Doping Agency, an official said Tuesday.

Disgraced Greek Sprinters Drug Tested by WADA


Skype for Windows, Skype for Pocket PC and Skype for Linux -- Skype for Mac OS X is free. Skype users can control their online presence and

Skype Telephony Now Available for the Mac


Protesters in Kathmandu have expressed disbelief and frustration after learning of the deaths of 12 Nepalese hostages in Iraq. Nepal #39;s ambassador to Qatar, Somananda Suman, confirmed

Killings shock, humiliate Nepalese


Reuters - Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, easing\his country's way back into the international fold, on Tuesday\became the first Arab leader to promise compensation for Jews\who were forced from their homes due to religious tension.

Gaddafi to Compensate Libyan Jews for Lost Homes (Reuters)


Microsoft will ship its next Windows client code-named Longhorn in 2006 as originally promised -- but without the next-generation file system known as WinFS.

Microsoft To Ship Longhorn in 2006 Without WinFS


By acquiring KVault, which makes e-mail-archiving software, it aims to erode EMC #39;s lead and rebuild investors #39; confidence.

Veritas Keeps Reaching into Its Wallet


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Jim Edmonds belted two solo homers to  lead the host St Louis Cardinals to an easy 9-3 win over the  San Diego Padres in National League action at Busch Stadium  Tuesday.

NL Wrap: Edmonds Double Strike Lifts Cards Over Padres


NEW YORK -- Just a year ago this week, New York Attorney General Eliot L. Spitzer shook the financial services industry -- and investor confidence -- by revealing that four big-name mutual fund companies had cut secret deals allowing a New Jersey hedge fund to profit from short-term trading at the expense of ordinary investors.

A Year of Charges, Reforms for Funds


Moscow police are conducting a partial evacuation at the Kursk railway station in central Moscow as they search for explosives after receiving an anonymous phone call from a man threatening

Moscow Rail Station Evacuated on Bomb Threat, Interfax Says


Gunmen opened fire Wednesday on a convoy carrying former Iraqi Governing Council member Ahmad Chalabi in an apparent assassination attempt that wounded two of his bodyguards, Chalabi #39;s spokesman said.

Iraq #39;s Chalabi escapes attempt on his life


The Blu-ray Disc Association (BRDA) has selected Microsoft #39;s VC-9 video codec for future BD-ROM content, the organisation said today.

Blu-ray group mandates Microsoft codec for BD-ROM


Ichiro Suzuki singled three times last night to etch out a spot in history and to send the Toronto Blue Jays a little deeper into oblivion.

Mariners riding the Ichiro wave


In-form Alex Wharf made an impressive start to his international career this morning with wickets in his first two overs against India at Trent Bridge.

Wharf marks debut with wickets


By the time his match with Andy Roddick was over, Jenkins had felt the full fury of Roddick #39;s jet blast. Roddick had nailed a 152-mph serve at him, the fastest serve in Open history and one

Roddick blisters junior champ


AMD has demonstrated the company #39;s first dual-core microprocessors. Dual-core processors offer improved performance over single-core chips, especially in multithreaded applications.

AMD dual-core demo pips Intel, IBM


BAGHDAD - Gunmen ambushed the convoy of former Iraqi governing council president Ahmed Chalabi on Wednesday, wounding two of his bodyguards, aides said.

Gunmen ambush Chalabi #39;s convoy, wound 2


Persistent economic sluggishness and continued fallout from the Southern California labor dispute slashed second quarter profits 36 percent for Albertsons Inc.

Albertsons #39; 2Q Profit Falls 36 Percent


The catheter that triggered three safety recalls by Boston Scientific Corp. of its best-selling Taxus coronary stent after being linked to three deaths and 47 injuries had not been subjected to the rigors of a human clinical trial, FDA records show.

Problem device bypassed trials


TechWeb - Availability of Entellium's code could speed development of industry-specific CRM products.

CRM Vendor Entellium Adopts Open-Source Strategy (TechWeb)


MOSCOW -- A woman strapped with explosives blew herself up outside a busy Moscow subway station yesterday night, killing at least 10 people and wounding more than 50 in the second terrorist attack to hit Russia in a week.

Suicide bomber kills at least 10 in Moscow


Va. GOP members chose Del. Thelma Drake (Norfolk) to replace Rep. Edward L. Schrock after he resigned amidst allegations Schrock indulged in or solicited gay sex.

Old Rumors of Gay Sex Prove Powerful on Web


Kaiju Big Battel -- a multimedia event in which costumed combatants spew toxic ooze on audience members -- is growing in popularity. There are already dedicated websites and a DVD series. Coming next: a book and TV pilot. By Xeni Jardin.

Monster Mashes Attract Masses


SCOTTISH  amp; Southern Energy yesterday called time on its 18-month acquisition spree after confirming a 3.1 billion swoop for two gas distribution networks.

Scottish  amp; Southern wraps up a 3bn deal over distribution <b>...</b>


Teenage striker Wayne Rooney says Manchester United were the only team he wanted to join once they he knew the club were interested in him.

Manchester United the only team for me, says Rooney


LONDON -- British police arrested 16 people, including three jockeys and a trainer, Wednesday as part of a major crackdown on corruption in horse racing.

Three jockeys, one trainer arrested


SiliconValley.com - Attempting to capitalize on iPod mania, Apple Computer Tuesday unveiled a fast new version of the iMac that it all but touted as a smart accessory for the sexy music players.

Ooh la la, Apple unveils new iMac (SiliconValley.com)


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Verizon Communications Inc. <A HREF=

Verizon, Bain Near Canada Directory Deal


AFP - China's largest manufacturer of personal computers Lenovo Group said it is in negotiations with a major information technology company, believed to be US-based IBM.

China's Lenovo in talks with 'major IT firm' for acquisition (AFP)


First Albany Capital on Wednesday raised SuperGen Inc. #39;s (SUPG.O: Quote, Profile, Research) stock rating to  quot;buy quot; from  quot;neutral, quot; following its cancer-drug deal with MGI Pharma Inc.

RESEARCH ALERT-First Albany ups SuperGen to  quot;buy quot; on drug deal


Researchers behind the study speculate that other life-forms may have already sent us messages, perhaps even as organic material embedded in asteroids that have struck Earth.

Alien Contact More Likely by  quot;Mail quot; Than Radio, Study Says


An alert posted on the company #39;s Web site outlined the patches that should be posted to fix numerous security holes in a number of applications.

Oracle Moves To Monthly Patch Schedule


There #39;s a remarkable graph on Google #39;s Zeitgeist site showing the meteoric rise of Microsoft Internet Explorer 6 use and equally catastrophic decline of all other competing browsers.

Internet Explorer Wins the Battle


OWINGS MILLS, Maryland (Ticker) --  quot;Prime Time quot; has decided this is the right time to return to the NFL. Deion Sanders, regarded as perhaps the most electrifying cornerback in league history, arrived here

Compete against your friends, SI experts and celebrities in this <b>...</b>


Reuters - A funny thing happened on the way to the\Mona Lisa. Visitors to the Louvre museum in Paris, home of the\world's most famous painting, started quizzing tour guides\about Dan Brown's best-selling novel

Paris Tourists Search for Key to 'Da Vinci Code' (Reuters)


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Expansion in the U.S. factory sector  slowed in August as higher costs for energy and raw materials  squeezed manufacturers, a report showed on Wednesday, but  analysts said growth remained relatively robust.

U.S. Factory Growth Eases


AP - For pandas, it's practically a baby boom. Two giant pandas were born this week, and mothers and cubs were doing fine, the official Xinhua News Agency reported Wednesday.

China Reports Births of Two Giant Pandas (AP)


The Football Association has handed referee Andy D #39;Urso a 28-day suspension following his failure to give Barry Ferguson his marching orders against Southampton on August 21.

D #39;Urso suspended by FA


The Israeli army sealed off Gaza Strip Wednesday by shutting down Erez Crossing and the Industrial Zone and prevented Palestinians from leaving.

Israel seals off Gaza Strip


Climate scientists tell a conference that greater efforts should be made to pull CO2 from the atmosphere.

Need for carbon sink technologies


MOVIE studio Metro-Goldwyn Meyer has reportedly banned some of its staff from buying or selling its shares, stoking speculation that a multibillion-dollar takeover of the group could be days away, with Time Warner the favoured candidate.

Share-deal ban signals MGM deal


Three new models are designed for businesses and home office users.

Dell Debuts Color Laser Printers


Crude oil futures surged Wednesday as the US Energy Department reported US oil supplies fell more than expected. Crude oil for October delivery rose 1.68 dollars to 43.

Crude oil prices soar on drop in US oil inventories


TAIPEI Acer, the Taiwan computer company, named Gianfranco Lanci of Italy as its president on Wednesday, an appointment that signals the company #39;s ambitions to expand its global market share.

Taiwan #39;s Acer picks a European as president


quot;Whether companies roll out Windows XP immediately or replace their older operating systems with Windows XP when purchasing new PCs, companies now have to ensure XP SP2 compliancy by determining

Companies Moving Cautiously on Microsoft #39;s SP2 Update


It was to have been Slobodan Milosevic #39;s day of dignity, the day on which the former Serbian leader would, with certain drama, lay out his defense strategy in his trial

Milosevic Startled: No Applause


Shares in newly public Google Inc. fell 2 percent on Wednesday as investors braced for the expiration of a lockup period that has kept insiders at the Web search company from selling stock.

Google shares down ahead of first lockup expiry


SPRINGFIELD, Ill. Philip Morris and lawyers who won a ten-(B)billion-dollar judgment against the company are fighting again. The cigarette maker on Monday asked the Illinois Supreme Court to disqualify a Chicago

Philip Morris, plaintiffs fighting again


washingtonpost.com - Aether Systems Inc., a Maryland wireless data company that is selling off its operating units, said yesterday it received a  #36;30 million offer for a division it had already agreed to sell to another buyer for  #36;25 million.

Aether Declines Higher Bid for Unit (washingtonpost.com)


AP - Cornell researchers will watch five upstate New York dairy herds to learn about the problems and challenges of converting from conventional to organic farming.

Scientists to Study Dairy Going Organic (AP)


BEIJING -- Twenty-nine people believed to be North Korean entered the Japanese school in Beijing on Wednesday morning to seek asylum in a country other than China, according to Foreign Ministry officials in Tokyo.

29 escapees from North seek refuge at school in Beijing


Javy Lopez drove in four runs, Daniel Cabrera became the first rookie to win 10 games this season, and the Baltimore Orioles held the Tampa Bay Devil Rays to two hits in an 8-0 victory.

Orioles 8, Devil Rays 0


By PAUL GEITNER    BRUSSELS, Belgium (AP) -- Europeans eat less of the most dangerous, cholesterol-raising fats than Americans do and the amount is decreasing, according to a report released Wednesday by the European Food Safety Authority.    Scientists at the European Food Safety authority declined to say whether the EU should follow the United States' lead and require special labels on margarine, chips, cookies, fries and other potential sources of trans fatty acids...

Europeans Eat Less of Dangerous Fatty Foods


The Samsung Electronics Company, the Korean electronics giant, said Monday that it would invest \$23.7 billion in new chip production lines over the next six years.

Samsung Says It Will Expand Chip Factories


The installation of SAP financial software at a major London-based container transport firm exposed flaws in the company's accounting systems and processes, forcing it to restate its earnings.

SAP software exposes shipper's financial errors


VeriSign is asking a California court to order the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers to butt out of its business.

VeriSign sues ICANN in state court


A prominent Mexican journalist known for his reports on organised  crime is killed on the US border.

Mexican columnist murdered


Javy Lopez drives in four runs, Daniel Cabrera becomes the first rookie to win 10 games this season, and the Orioles hold Tampa Bay to two hits in an 8-0 victory Wednesday night.

O's Stuff Devil Rays


Reuters - Five thousand people protesting high\job losses formed a 3 mile unemployment line in Manhattan on\Wednesday and AIDS activists disrupted a Republican meeting on\the third day of the party's convention to nominate the\president to a second term in office.

Republican Convention Dogged by Relentless Protests (Reuters)


HOTEL operators, take note: Todays hotel guests are making a nonsense of room-pricing strategies with their aggressive, Internet-aided discount-hunting.

Make hotels just like home


Reuters - Hurricane Frances battered the\southeastern Bahamas islands with 140 mph winds on Wednesday as\it roared toward the United States and put millions of people\on alert along Florida's heavily populated east coast.

Strong Hurricane Roars Over Bahamas Toward Florida (Reuters)


Another disappointing sales month at General Motors Corp. and Ford Motor Co. led the nation #39;s two largest automakers to cut planned vehicle production in the fourth quarter, which could hurt profits.

Update 8: Ford, GM Set Production Cuts on Sales Drop


PARIS -- Apple Computer will begin shipping its new IMac G5 desktop computer worldwide in mid-September, the company #39;s top marketing executive says.

Apple Unwraps New IMac G5s


PC World - Despite well-publicized wins by piracy foes, illegal digital music and movie trading continues to flourish in underground havens.

Sneaky Sharing (PC World)


THE HAGUE (Reuters) - Judges at The Hague tribunal on  Thursday imposed a defense counsel on former Yugoslav President  Slobodan Milosevic to avoid further delays in his war crimes  trial.

Hague Court Imposes Defense Counsel on Milosevic


Football365 #39;s top pundit looks ahead to England #39;s international double-header and calls for Joe Cole to be given the nod on the left... Of the three left-sided options available to Sven-Goran Eriksson on Saturday, I would personally go for Joe Cole.

It #39;s got to be Cole on the left


The UN tribunal in The Hague says it will impose a defence lawyer on former Yugoslav leader Slobodan Milosevic.

Court imposes lawyer on Milosevic


Bill Ryan is spending the last days of the summer traveling across Canada and the United States to pitch big shareholders on the complicated plan to sell 51 percent of his Banknorth Group Inc. to Toronto-Dominion Bank .

Not a big hit everywhere


A new computerized service enables customers to create phony outbound phone numbers in order to mask their telephone identities.

Software Service Aims to Outfox Caller ID


PARIS -- School doors open for 12 million French children today, but there is far more at stake this year than back-to-school jitters.

As French school year begins, Iraq crisis tests head scarf ban


DAKAR, Senegal -- Residents burned tires and children took to the streets with sticks in Senegal's capital yesterday to fight an invasion of locusts, as 12 West African nations agreed on a battle plan.

12 nations agree to locust battle plan


There was the \$5 million Deutsche Bank Championship to prepare for and the Ryder Cup is a few weeks away, but the first order of business for Jim Furyk yesterday was to make sure his wife and children were headed for safety.

He's caught up in hurricane


Can't wait to see the Super Bowl champion New England Patriots look to continue their 15-game winning streak when they host the Indianapolis Colts next Thursday? Gridiron junkies will whet their appetite tomorrow at 7 p.m. at Battis Field in Middleborough, where the Middleboro Cobras and Brockton Buccaneers will tangle for Eastern Football League supremacy.

A serving of football EFL style


Tim Brett and Matt Shinney are lacrosse aficionados and fervent players. Brett, 27, who is a manager at a hotel in Charlestown, and Shinney, 23, a student at Bridgewater State College, are self-described lacrosse  quot;weekend warriors. quot;

Locals lift Irish squad in Europe tourney


A campaign begins to collect old mobile phones and convert them into alarms for women who are attacked in the home.

Phone fight against home violence


Israeli forces destroyed two five-story apartment buildings in a Gaza refugee camp early Thursday after evacuating thousands of Palestinians from a neighborhood, said residents and the military.

Israeli forces raid Gaza refugee camp


This service leverages new Windows Media 10 technologies to enable Napster subscribers to download music to portable devices, a technology called Janus.

Napster Offers Music to Go


Italy #39;s Francesco Casagrande and Carlos Golbano of Spain have been declared unfit to start the Tour of Spain following pre-race blood tests.

Casagrande and Golbano out of Vuelta


On September 2, Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi (right) inspects four northern islands that are under territorial dispute with Russia.

Japanese Prime Minister Inspects Four Northern Islands under <b>...</b>


Red Hat on Thursday named Charles Peters Jr. as executive vice president and chief financial officer. Peters replaces Kevin Thompson, who unexpectedly announced his resignation in June, a few days before the

Red Hat replaces CFO


A slow August snapped an eight-month winning streak for Federated Department Stores Inc., which reported its first drop in sales since November.

Federated sales decline in August


PARIS - Millions of French students returned to school Thursday as a new law that bans Islamic head scarves from classrooms went into effect amid demands by Islamic radicals holding two French hostages in Iraq that the law be scrapped.    Muslim leaders in France, who had largely opposed the law, urged calm for the return to class...

French Students Face New Head Scarf Ban


AFP - A favourite tipple among connoisseurs the world over, whisky is treated with almost religious reverence on the Hebridean island of Islay, home to seven of Scotland's single malt distilleries.

Scotch Whisky eyes Asian and Eastern European markets (AFP)


AFP - Global sales of mobile telephones hit a record 156 million in the second quarter, a study published by the US research group Gartner showed.

Mobile phone sales hit second-quarter record: Gartner (AFP)


Reuters - The results of one of the stranger\environmental surveys to be conducted in Britain are in -- and\there's a surprise.

British Bug Splat Survey Springs Surprise (Reuters)


Not every specialty retailer is cut from the same mold -- some are just moldy.

Specialty Retail Tales


West Indies have been forced to make a second change to their Champions Trophy squad because of injury. Dwayne Smith is suffering from a shoulder problem and has been replaced by Ryan Hinds.

Smith setback for Windies


European carrier Orange is rolling out its own Push To Talk service ahead of efforts to create a standardized PTT system. European mobile carrier Orange has announced

Orange tells customers to Talk Now


Cue the music: Microsoft has officially thrown its headphones into the ring in the contest to bring legal music downloads to the masses. <FONT face=

Microsoft's Tune Like Many Others


Multiple reports of provocateurs setting trash fires in midtown, read one text message sent to 400-plus mobile phones this week through a service called Ruckus RNC 2004 Text Alerts.

RNC Protesters Using Text Messages to Plan


Charles Peters Jr. is taking over as the company deals with the aftereffects of restating its earnings for the past three fiscal years.

Red Hat replaces CFO


Judges send case back to lower court to sort out allegations of improper bookkeeping and

Appeals court faults Oracle in shareholder suit


TOKYO -- Microsoft Corp.'s Japanese arm will begin giving away more than a million CD-ROMs of the company's latest security update, Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2) from 27,500 locations during September and October, the company said on Thursday.

Microsoft Japan to give away over one million XP SP2 CDs


Sun Microsystems Inc. plans later this month to unveil its first ever content switch: a load-balancing and SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) acceleration switch based on the Nauticus N2000 products that the Santa Clara, California, company acquired in January of this year.

Sun to enter content switch market


Shares of US Airways Group Inc. rose more than 9 Thursday morning after the airline #39;s pilots union said it may agree on a plan to cut wages and benefits.

US Airways shares up on possible pilots pact


SiliconValley.com - Microsoft makes its long-anticipated entry into the online music market today, marking the first serious challenge to Apple Computer's popular iTunes service.

Microsoft to make foray into online music (SiliconValley.com)


The Motley Fool - If you've ever had the entrepreneurial bug dig its teeth into you, odds are that you might take heart anytime a company's founder steps down and moves on. Granted, sometimes you have instances like Gateway's (NYSE: GTW - News) Ted Waitt and Apple's (Nasdaq: AAPL - News) Steve Jobs in which the originators come back to lead their companies, but that's rarely the case.

LeapFrog's Greener Pastures (The Motley Fool)


NEW YORK - Lindsay Davenport's summer of success stayed on course Thursday when the fifth-seeded former U.S. Open champion defeated Arantxa Parra Santonja 6-4, 6-2 and advanced to the third round of the season's final Grand Slam event...

Davenport Advances at U.S. Open


With Sir Clive Woodward seemingly on his way to soccer, England #39;s rugby team is looking for a new coach to follow up last year #39;s World Cup triumph.

Media speculate on successor as England coach prepares to step <b>...</b>


Miguel Angel Jimenez and Sergio Garcia warmed up for this month #39;s Ryder Cup with sparkling starts at the European Masters on Thursday.

UPDATE 1-Jimenez, Garcia, Donald make Langer a happy man


OSCOW, Sept. 2- World oil prices rose on Thursday after Russia #39;s largest oil producer, Yukos, said a court ruling  quot;paralyzes #39; #39; the company #39;s operations.

Some Dire Talk From Yukos Lifts Oil Prices


JAKARTA (Agencies): President Megawati Soekarnoputri opened high-level economic talks between members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on Friday with a warning to ASEAN leaders that they must stay the course on their agreed

Megawati kicks off 36th ASEAN economic meeting


SOFTWARE FIRM Microsoft seems to have agreed to bend to the will of the open source community on its anti-spam technology sender ID.

Microsoft bends on Sender ID


quot;Dating the beginnings of bipedalism is very important in the human story because, for many experts, it would mark a clear divergence from the ancestral/ape pattern and show that the human lineage had really begun, quot; said Chris Stringer, director of the

Fossil Pushes Upright Walking Back 2 Million Years, Study Says


Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corp., China #39;s biggest supplier of made-to-order chips, said its factory capacity will rise by more than half in the second half as the company brings more plants on line.

Semiconductor Manufacturing to Boost Capacity by Half (Update2)


PC World - Though digital music has come a long way, today's online music stores still have significant problems. Here's my fix-it wish list.

The Playlist: What's Wrong With Digital Music Stores? (PC World)


Forbes.com - Like Network Appliance, many top tech firms are snapping up Linux programmers, hoping to influence the way the operating system evolves. The trick is to hire programmers closest to Linux creator Linus Torvalds. Torvalds oversees Linux development, but he delegates pieces of the system to the 25 or so code maintainers,like Trond Myklebust at NetApp.Maintainers in turn break their projects into smaller pieces, overseen by submaintainers.

Counting the Hops (Forbes.com)


AP - A group of congressional Democrats is asking President Bush to dismiss a senior military intelligence officer who made church speeches that included inflammatory religious remarks while discussing the war on terrorism.

Congress Members Seek Officer's Dismissal (AP)


PARIS (Reuters) - Hopes of a swift end to the French  hostage crisis rose early Friday, after the Le Figaro newspaper  that employs one of the two captives said the men were now  being held by Iraqi guerrillas willing to negotiate their  release.

French Hostage Transfer Sparks Release Hopes


SEOUL (Reuters) - South Korea said on Friday it did not  expect a shock declaration that government scientists enriched  uranium four years ago to upset international efforts to end  North Korea's nuclear ambitions.

South Korea Seeks to Play Down Nuclear Disclosure


The freefall in oil prices ended Monday on a spate of ominous developments, including a deadly attack on a US consulate in Saudi Arabia and reports that OPEC might cut production this week.

After Steep Drop, Price of Oil Rises


A former part-time teller and Mexican immigrant won more than \$100,000 after the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination determined Citizens Bank discriminated against her when it bypassed her for a full-time job in favor of a less experienced white co-worker.

Ex-teller wins bias case against Citizens


South Korea's key allies play down a shock admission its scientists experimented to enrich uranium.

Seoul allies calm on nuclear shock


Three Indian truck drivers held hostage in Iraq arrive back in Delhi, where large crowds greet them.

Freed trio get warm Delhi welcome


Oil prices briefly bolted above \$45 a barrel yesterday, then retreated toward \$44, in a volatile day of trading after Russian oil giant Yukos said its output could suffer because of a court ruling that froze some of its assets.

Oil prices rise on fears about Yukos production


A different way of calculating the medal standings brings some interesting results.

The Bahamas - the real medal winner of the Athens Olympics


The August start of the back-to-school shopping season was a disappointment for major retailers.

Third Month of Slow Sales for Retailers


South Korea admitted that a group of its nuclear scientists secretly produced a small amount of near-weapons grade uranium.

South Koreans Say Secret Work Refined Uranium


The leading private and branded food and pet products marketer is spending to revamp its image.

Del Monte Needs 9Lives


Alex Smith throws for three touchdowns, rushes for two more and finishes with 435 yards of offense, and No. 20 Utah backs up its first preseason ranking with a 41-21 win over Texas A M.

Utes Pile It On


The Supreme Court is considering whether Michigan and other states may bar people from buying wine directly from out-of-state suppliers, a big-money question that could lead to sweeping changes in how alcoholic beverages are regulated

High court hears dispute over Michigan interstate wine sales


Opinion Impotent with iPod pride

Apple faithful's apathy to blame for Napsterized schools


A shoot-on-sight curfew imposed to prevent riots and violent protests over the killing of 12 Nepalese workers in Iraq entered its third day Friday, while officials said they were trying to recover the bodies of the slain hostages.

Nepal capital under curfew for 3rd day; violators ordered to be <b>...</b>


Republican-dominated election board met behind closed doors in deliberations that Democrats feared were aimed at ousting Elections Administrator Linda H. Lamone.
\<FONT face=

Md. Board Meeting Worries Democrats


With today's expected announcement, hardware vendors will get access to the BladeCenter specifications by signing a seven-page licensing agreement, which grants users the right to license the specifications for certain types of products.

IBM and Intel to open up blade specifications


Simple to code does not always mean simple for the user. And simple for the user is often not easy to code.

Columnists: Simple and Secure isn't so Simple


One Saudi policeman was killed and three others were wounded in clashes with militants in a town northeast of Riyadh. A number of suspects were arrested in the battles, officials said.

Policeman Shot Dead in Saudi Battle


The European Union said Friday it  quot;hoped to reach a conclusion quot; at a meeting of foreign ministers on the participation of military-ruled Myanmar in an upcoming summit of Asian and European nations.

EU foreign ministers hope to break deadlock over ASEM summit


NEW YORK (CBS.MW) -- First Albany lowered its stock price target for Intel (INTC) to \$24 from \$30 following the chip sector bellwether #39;s lowered third-quarter revenue and margin outlook.

First Albany cuts target for Intel, keeps  #39;buy #39; rating


Fergal Lynch had a good win at Redcar as he returned to action yesterday along with champion jockey Kieren Fallon, fellow rider Darren Williams and trainer Karl Burke, after their shock

Lynch triumphs at Redcar


The Red Sox take control of the American League wild-card race with a 4-3 win over the Angels. It was Boston #39;s ninth straight win -- a season high.

9 in a row! Red Sox sweep Angels


St. Paul, Minn.Outclassed and completely humiliated by the Russians here last night, the reeling and desperate Americans are planning wholesale lineup changes to get back on track in the World Cup.

The Russians are back


AFP - The US economy generated 144,000 jobs in August, the Labour Department said, in a sign that the labour market was improving slightly after two sluggish months.

US economy generated 144,000 jobs in August (AFP)


MOSCOW: Russias tax ministry said on Friday that it had raised its back tax claims against oil major Yukos by a fifth for 01, to 119.

Yukos faces tax arrears of \$4bn


An Argentine court acquitted five suspects in the 1994 bombing of a Jewish community center that killed 85 people, La Nacion newspaper reported Friday.

Argentine court acquits bombing suspects


The adapters can overheat and cause damage to the circuit board, according to a safety agency. WASHINGTON: IBM will recall about 225,000 AC power adapters for several models of its laptop computer because

IBM recalls 225,000 laptop adapters


EMC has hired a former IBM veteran to be its chief technology officer, in what appears to be the latest step in EMC #39;s evolution from a data storage hardware specialist to a more comprehensive computing company.

Big Blue veteran heads to EMC


That miracle, of course, took place in Lake Placid, NY, during the 1980 Winter Olympics. Thanks to the likes of Jim Craig, Mike Eruzione, Ken Morrow and the rest of the US hockey team, the mighty Soviet Union

No miracle this time


Reuters - Democrat John Kerry on Friday\dismissed the Republican convention as

Kerry Vows to Tell Truth as President (Reuters)


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Intel Corp's <A HREF=

Intel Outlook May Portend PC Weakness


Indian inflation hits its highest level in more than three years, boosted by increasing energy and food costs.

Indian inflation peaks on imports


A federal judge in Virginia has ruled that a trademark infringement suit filed by the Government Employees Insurance Co. (GEICO) against Internet search giants Google Inc. and Overture Services Inc. can proceed.

Judge: Geico can sue Google, Overture over ads


Update: A partnership may be crucial for long-term success, one industry insider says.

Did Apple Offer Sony an ITunes Deal?


The US textile industry officials would plead for blocking Chinese imports to the Bush administration this month. Earlier this year, the White House had rejected a similar request made by 130 Republican and Democratic members of Congress.

USA : Textile industry to renew request to place embargo on <b>...</b>


Thousands of automobiles clogged Florida #39;s highways during the largest evacuation in state history as residents anticipated the arrival of Hurricane Frances.

NASA braces for Frances


Louisiana State beat Oklahoma in the Bowl Championship Series title game in the Sugar Bowl last January. Both teams play their openers on Saturday in the first full weekend of the college football season.

LSU, Oklahoma play openers on Saturday


VIENNA - England midfielder Steven Gerrard is a major doubt to face Austria in today #39;s opening 2006 World Cup qualifier. Gerrard has failed to shake off a groin injury suffered in training on Thursday and

Gerrard only a 50-50 chance


AP - Israeli troops killed two Palestinians in two separate incidents Friday, and Israeli helicopters fired three missiles at a Gaza warehouse the army said was used for making weapons.

Israeli Troops Kill Two Palestinians (AP)


Continental Airlines announced today it will not make any contributions to its pension plan this year, citing as reasons the ongoing uncertainty of the industry #39;s economic environment and the record high cost of jet fuel.

Continental won #39;t make pension contributions this year


Napster announced yesterday that it is testing a new subscription service model that would add portable devices to the list of its subscription service #39;s supported devices.

Napster tests  quot;on-the-go quot; subscription service


Two interesting stories this week. One - Manchester United #39;s signing of Wayne Rooney - exciting if rather predictable; another - Southampton #39;s apparent intent to hire England rugby union coach Sir Clive Woodward - surprising and, to many, baffling.

A different ball game


ISLAMABAD, Pakistan : Sep 04 (PID) - President General Pervez Musharraf and Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz attended a meeting on Friday to review the progress of the composite dialogue between India and Pakistan delineates a strategy to carry the process

President, PM Review Dialogue Process With India


Carlos Beltran went two for four with a homer and scored three times Friday night as Houston downed Pittsburgh, 8-6. Craig Biggio, Jose Vizcaino and Jeff Bagwell also homered for

MLB: Houston 8, Pittsburgh 6


KANDAHAR, Afghanistan : An Afghan man died and five people were hurt in a bomb attack on a UN vehicle in Afghanistan, officials said, in the second deadly blast in a week as the country prepares for next month #39;s polls.

Attack on UN vehicle kills one in southern Afghanistan


NEW YORK  No. 2 women #39;s seed Amelie Mauresmo of France advanced to the fourth round of the US Open, defeating No. 31 seed Maria Vento-Kabchi 6-2, 6-0 Friday.

Mauresmo cruises to straight-set victory


Jose Lima bounced back in grand style Friday night from one of his worst outings of the season and an eight-day layoff, limiting the National League #39;s most feared lineup to two

It #39;s not in the cards


Tensions between Taiwan and China landed on Seattle #39;s doorstep last night when Taiwan President Chen Shui-bian visited Seattle under tight security, greeted by demonstrators both for and against Taiwan independence.

Protesters greet Taiwan president during brief visit


Reuters - Take 15 million armchair athletes,\add a steady stream of statistics and mix in a healthy dollop\of trash talk. Post it all on the Internet and you've got a  #36;3\billion industry built around imaginary sports teams.

Livewire: Fantasy Sports Leagues Thrive Online (Reuters)


Kevin Brown's frustrating season finally reached a boiling point, and now his hot temper could cost the New York Yankees at the most important time. Brown broke his non-pitching hand when he punched a wall in the clubhouse last night during a 3-1 loss to the Baltimore Orioles that cut New York's lead in the AL East ...

Yankees, Brown go down swinging


WASHINGTON - Medicare premiums for doctor visits are going up a record \$11.60 a month next year. The Bush administration says the increase reflects a strengthened Medicare, while Democrats complain that seniors are being unfairly socked...

Medicare Premiums to Rise Record 17 Pct.


T amp;T Wireless Services Inc., the third-largest United States mobile phone company, reached an agreement yesterday with Rogers Communications Inc.

AT amp;T Wireless Moves to Sell Canada Asset


LONDON, England -- Andrew Symonds rode his luck to score the second one-day century of his career as Australia scored 269-6 from their 50 overs against Pakistan at Lord #39;s.

Symonds century lifts Australia


For most tennis players, having about the same number of clean winners as unforced errors translates into a pretty good performance.

Federer back in Open #39;s fourth round with masterful performance


Israeli military helicopters yesterday evening bombarded by missiles a building in one of the refugee camps in the downtown of Gaza, while two Palestinians were killed and other three injured in the sector by the Israeli bullets.

Two Palestinians kiled in a night raid against a warehouse in Gaza


AP - It was the surest sign that the Kobe Bryant case was leaving town for good after a 14-month occupation: A rancher obtained permission to tear down CNN's 15-by-20-foot camera platform near the courthouse.

Colo. Town Relieved by Bryant Decision (AP)


BAGHDAD, Iraq - An Islamic militant group that claimed to have kidnapped two French journalists said it would soon decide their fate, according to a message posted on a Web site Friday, and an Iraqi negotiator called the chance for their release  quot;excellent

French captives #39; fate mulled


Parts of Los Angeles international airport are temporarily closed down amid reports of a security breach.

Alert shuts Los Angeles airport


AFP - Facing a issue that once tripped up his father, US President George W. Bush told adoring supporters that he likes broccoli. Part of it, anyway.

Bush cuts down the middle on broccoli question (AFP)


WASHINGTON - Employers stepped up hiring in August, expanding payrolls by 144,000 and lowering the unemployment rate to 5.4 percent.

Job numbers give candidates room to debate


AP - Drew Tate threw two touchdowns in his first start and No. 19 Iowa turned in a dominating defensive performance to beat Kent State 39-7 in the season opener Saturday.

No. 19 Iowa Dominates Kent St., 39-7 (AP)


Brian Kerr took his Ireland squad to the dogs last Wednesday, but the evening spent watching greyhounds race was not solely about relaxation.

Quick Duff puts Kerr #39;s men into fast lane


Never content with the simple things in life, Microsoft is apparently on a mobile media crusade with the deceptively unassuming announcement of the companies MSN Music service.

Email this to a friend Print this story


STOCKS in the United States fell - led by technology shares - after the world #39;s biggest semiconductor maker Intel cut its revenue forecast because of slowing demand for personal computers and mobile phones.

Stocks dip after Intel cuts forecast


The leader of militant Lebanese group Hezbollah rejects a UN call for the organisation to be disbanded.

Hezbollah rejects abolition call


Maria Sharapova, the 17-year-old Wimbledon champion, was eliminated in the third round at the US Open yesterday by the 27th seed, Mary Pierce, who used to be known as  quot;The

Pierce hunts down Sharapova


NORTON, Massachusetts (Reuters) - Fiji's Vijay Singh  fashioned an eight-under par 63 Saturday to take a two-shot  second-round lead on 131 in the Deutsche Bank Championship.

Singh Takes Two-Shot Lead, Woods Tied for Second


Greg Biffle wins a nearly race-long duel with Casey Mears, pulling away over the last two laps to win the NASCAR Busch Series race Saturday at California Speedway.

Biffle Bests Mears


The world #39;s largest software company has teamed with the world #39;s largest retailer to help kick off the latest version of Windows Media Player.

Wal-Mart Anchors Windows Media Mall


Cristie Kerr carded a nine-under-par 63 to take a four-stroke lead after the third round of the State Farm Classic in Illinois. Kerr entered the day four shots behind Christina Kim but showed the youngster that Tour veterans must never be underestimated.

KERR CRUISES INTO LEAD


Skype is the easiest, fastest and cheapest way for individual customers to use their computers with broadband connections as telephones.

In Internet Calling, Skype Is Living Up to the Hype


The American economic ship, which has weathered the recent run-up in crude oil prices, may be more vulnerable to sudden surges in the price of money.

The Next Shock: Not Oil, but Debt


AP - Americans appear to be getting used to paying more to drive  #151; even if it means they have less money to buy other things. For example, Wal-Mart Stores Inc., the world's largest retailer, blamed disappointing sales in August on the fact that shoppers spent more just getting to and from its stores.

Motorists Submitting to High Gas Prices (AP)


A Canadian judge has ordered that a court-appointed inspector be assigned to take a close look at the business dealings of Hollinger Inc, the Conrad Black-controlled company said on Friday.

Judge orders inspector to look at Hollinger dealings


NEW YORK (DowJonesAP) - Pfizer (PFE) said Friday it has agreed to pay \$430 million to settle all lawsuits against it alleging injury from insulation products made by a subsidiary.

Pfizer to settle asbestos claims


com. The Apache Software Foundation, developers of the popular open-source Apache web server, said on Thursday that it wouldn #39;t support the proposed anti-spam standard Sender ID, because the licensing terms set by Microsoft Corp.

Apache Balks At Microsoft #39;s Licensing Demands For Anti-Spam <b>...</b>


JAKARTA : ASEAN finance ministers ended a meeting which saw Southeast Asia edge closer to a Europe-style single market, laying out a  quot;road map quot; for integration and opening doors to wider global trade.

ASEAN moves closer to single market with  #39;road map #39;, global trade <b>...</b>


Martin Brodeur made 27 saves, and Brad Richards, Kris Draper, and Joe Sakic scored to help Canada beat Russia, 3-1, last night in Toronto, giving the Canadians a 3-0 record in round-robin play of the World Cup of Hockey.

Canada, Finland rule pools


COLUMBIA, Mo. -- Brad Smith threw for 233 yards and three touchdowns and ran for 63 yards and another score to help No. 18 Missouri rout Arkansas State, 52-20, last night in the season opener for both teams.

Smith lifts Missouri with all-around effort


Dan Orlovsky threw for 382 yards and tied his school record with five touchdown passes to lead Connecticut to a 52-14 win over Murray State yesterday in East Hartford.

UConn passes first test


Freshman Alexis Serna is down on the field kneeling, pounding the Tiger Stadium turf. He wanted to hide. But couldn #39;t find a place.

Tigers celebrating after Beavers don #39;t get their kicks


The death toll in the Russian schoolhouse siege soared to more than 340 yesterday, and the horrifying human cost is likely to keep climbing.

Russian school death toll tops 340


They were 78 feet and a generation apart. On one end of the Arthur Ashe Stadium court stood Maria Sharapova, the 17-year-old Wimbledon champion with a future as bright as her usual smile.

Sharapova ousted


Tom Ridge set an all-age record of 1 minute 50.2 seconds in winning the \$530,000 World Trotting Derby at the DuQuoin (Ill.) State Fair yesterday.

Tom Ridge sets all-age record in winning World Trotting Derby


NEW YORK -- Olivier Rochus didn't know quite how to react. First the arms went hesitantly up in the air. Then there was a little half-fist pump, a triumphant bellow, and a smile that could have lit a path through the darkest storm. Then Rochus, a 23-year-old Belgian who prior to this year had never won a match at the ...

Little guy earns big victory at Open


Toward the end of the month if resources are a little tight, there are times when Krista Bergstrom admits she writes a check or two for more than is left in her account.

Checking changes


Retailers in Michigan delighted when students returned to the classroom, but the back-to-school sales haven #39;t generated the kind of dollars many projected.

Sales aren #39;t making the grade


Valentino Rossi, who on Thursday pledged his future to Yamaha, entered the final qualifying session with the fastest time to date, but with the morning rain having washed the circuit clean, the Italian was unable to challenge Makoto Tamada for the pole.

Rossi:  #39;I #39;m fairly happy #39;


LORETO, Italy (Reuters) - Pope John Paul prayed for the  victims of the

Pope Prays for Beslan School Dead at Italy Mass


Republic of Ireland manager Brian Kerr said he was delighted with the 3-0 win over Cyprus after so many players had pulled out of his squad.

Kerr happy with Irish win


Microsoft Corp. is facing growing pressure from open-source software across every segment of its businessa competitive threat that could have significant consequences for its financial future going forward

Microsoft Sees Open-Source Threat Looming Ever Larger


PARIS Global cellphone sales rose to record levels in the second quarter as Nokia clawed back some of its lost market share, according to figures released Thursday.

Global sales of mobile phones hit record levels


TORONTO -- All the early miscues belonged to the Oakland Athletics but the ones that mattered the most, in the eighth and ninth innings, were made by the Toronto Blue Jays.

In the end, goofs sink Jays


Reuters - France remained hopeful on Sunday that\two French hostages in Iraq would be freed and a religious\fatwa issued in Iraq demanded their release.

France Hopeful for Hostages, Fatwa Demands Release (Reuters)


Iraq #39;s toppled leader Saddam Hussein and his top aides will go on trial within weeks, Iraqi Minister of State Kasim Daoud said on Sunday.

Saddam, Aides to Go on Trial Within Weeks - Daoud


The digital music space is changing, with more songs and a growing number of places to download music legally. Realizing that the time was ripe to see how we were doing, I took some song recommendations and sat down to see what I could download.

The Lowdown on Downloading Music


Johnson  amp; Johnson is in advanced negotiations to acquire Guidant, an Indianapolis-based medical device maker, for more than \$24 billion, executives close to the talks said Monday.

Guidant, J amp;J reportedly are in merger talks


BAGHDAD (Reuters) - Iraq's government was scrambling on  Sunday to confirm whether the most wanted Saddam Hussein aide  still on the run had been captured, as confident statements  that he had been seized gave way to doubt and confusion.

Iraq Govt. Seeks to Confirm if Saddam Aide Held


AP - Along with their destructive force, hurricanes can have beneficial effects as part of the rhythm of nature. Storms that erode beaches, uproot trees and flatten wildlife habitats may also refresh waterways, revive dry areas and bulk up barrier islands with redistributed sand.

Hurricanes Bring Environmental Renewal (AP)


AFP - George W. Bush took a double-digit lead in what had been a neck-and-neck presidential election contest, prompting Democratic challenger John Kerry to refocus his campaign on bread-and-butter economic issues, where the Republican incumbent president is considered vulnerable.

Bush takes a double-digit lead as Kerry campaign struggles to regroup (AFP)


India bowled England all out for 181 to win the third one-day international of the NatWest Challenge at Lord #39;s by 23 runs. England would have gone into the second innings confident.

Lord #39;s smiles on India once more


LAKE FOREST, Ill. -- Veteran defensive lineman Bryan Robinson (pictured) was among 21 players cut Sunday as the Chicago Bears pared their roster to 53.

Chicago Bears Cut Bryan Robinson


MADRID : Alessandro Petacchi showed why he is considered one of the world #39;s top sprinters when coming out on top in a mass dash to the line in the second stage of the Tour of Spain.

Cycling: Petacchi wins second stage in Spain


Prime Minister John Howard and Opposition Leader Mark Latham will target key marginal seats around Sydney as the election campaign hits its second week.

PM and Latham target Sydney


FORT PIERCE, Fla. - Hurricane Frances' wind and water whacked swaths of southern Florida with fire-hose force Sunday, submerging entire roadways and tearing off rooftops even as the storm weakened and crawled inland with heavy rain in its wake...

Frances Knocks Out Power, Floods Florida


LONDON - A man wielding a machete and a knife attacked two security guards at the building housing the headquarters of the British domestic intelligence service MI5 on Friday, police said.

World briefs


Kevin Brown had successful surgery on his broken left hand Sunday and vowed to pitch again for the Yankees this season.

Yankees' Brown Has Successful Surgery


South Africa has canceled a meeting with prosecutors from Equatorial Guinea who had hoped to interview Mark Thatcher on his suspected links to a coup plot in the oil-rich country, officials said on Sunday.

S.Africa Cancels Thatcher Meeting with Eq. Guinea


Bangladesh is willing to sign a protocol with the United States to set up a joint working group like India and Pakistan did to enhance Dhaka #39;s capability to effectively deal with future terrorist acts in the country.

Bangladesh seeks US intelligence cooperation


AP - The Tennessee Titans released Jason Gesser, their third quarterback, on Sunday and plan to replace him with a veteran.

Titans Release No. 3 QB Jason Gesser (AP)


Though coach Herman Edwards ruled defensive end John Abraham out for only this Sunday #39;s game against the Steelers with a sprained lateral collateral ligament in his right knee, he #39;ll be

Jets: Abraham is likely to miss 3 games


HOUSTON Mike Lamb went four-for-five with a homer and four RB-Is to lead the Houston Astros to their ninth straight win with a 10-to-five victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates today.

Astros 10, Pirates 5


For a moment last week, President Bush escaped the White House spin chamber and was the plainspoken man much of the nation came to like four years ago.

Labor situation deserves honest talk


File photo taken on March 1, 2003 shows Izzat Ibrahim at the Arab Summit in Sharm-el-Sheikh, Egypt. Ibrahim, the second most powerful man of the former Iraqi regime, was captured on Sept.

Saddam #39;s top aide al-Douri arrested


AP - Veteran offensive lineman Mike Compton and rookie defensive tackle Anthony Maddox were among the 12 players cut by the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday.

Jags Cut Compton, Maddox (AP)


AP - Iraqi authorities claimed on Sunday to have captured Izzat Ibrahim al-Douri, the most wanted member of Saddam Hussein's ousted dictatorship, but there was confusion over the report, as the Iraqi defense minister said word of his arrest was

Former Saddam Deputy Arrested in Iraq (AP)


AP - Tim Couch's stay in Green Bay was short and unproductive.

Couch, Gildon, Levens Among NFL Cuts (AP)


TOKYO (Reuters) - Tokyo stocks rose by mid-morning on  Monday with a broad range of issues getting a lift from a key  survey that boosted optimism on Japan's economic outlook, with  expectations rising that growth figures will be revised up.

Tokyo Stocks Higher, Lifted by Survey


Manufacturing industry is enjoying its strongest performance for almost 10 years, according to a survey by the Engineering Employers Federation.

British industry at best in 10 years


Those who are engaged in the profit-oriented production and dissemination of pornographic materials through the Internet, mobile communication terminals and  quot;phone-sex quot; services in China are subject to punishment as severe as life imprisonment, according

Porn producers face severe punishment


MICHAEL Kasprowicz has put national selectors into a difficult situation with a five-wicket burst that has enhanced Australia #39;s hopes of snatching a maiden Champions Trophy in London this month.

CRICKET: Kaspa has selectors in a bind


AP - Tokyo stocks rose moderately Monday morning on bargain hunting following Friday's losses. The U.S. dollar was up against the Japanese yen.

Tokyo Stocks Higher at Late Morning (AP)


Richard N. Perle, a director at the media company Hollinger International who was criticized in an internal report, says he was duped by its former chief, Conrad M. Black.

Under Attack, Director Says Hollinger's Black Misled Him


Leaving behind two French reporters still held hostage in Iraq, France #39;s foreign minister headed home from the Middle East but said they were still believed to be alive and that efforts to free them would continue.

French minister returns empty handed


If the playoffs opened right now, instead of next month, the A #39;s would face the Red Sox in the first round -- again. Boston bounced Oakland out of the postseason in five games last year, coming back from a 2-0 deficit to do so.

Possible playoff preview A #39;s take a hit in Toronto but come home <b>...</b>


Freshman Brent Schaeffer threw for one touchdown and ran for another Sunday as the 14th-ranked Tennessee Volunteers defeated the UNLV Rebels, 42-17.

COL FB: Tennessee 42, UNLV 17


SALINAS, Calif. -- Baseball commissioner Bud Selig said in meetings Monday that he would accept government intervention on steroid testing if the players #39; association refuses to change the current rules, which run for two more years.

Is It Time For Steroid Testing In High Schools?


Tokyo share prices fell steeply Friday, led by technology stocks after a disappointing report from US chip giant Intel. The US dollar was up against the Japanese yen.

Update 4: Tokyo Stocks Fall, US Dollar Climbs


TOKYO (Reuters) - Residents of western Japan were warned of  possible aftershocks on Monday after two strong earthquakes the  previous day but authorities said the tremors were not directly  linked to a cycle of major seismic activity that hits the  region every century or so.

West Japan on Guard for Aftershocks After Quakes


European Competition Commissioner Mario Monti has given the green light to the UK8.75bn takeover bid by Spain #39;s Santander for the UK #39;s Abbey National.

Monti gives Abbey takeover green light


Lawyers for Anwar Ibrahim, the former deputy prime minister of Malaysia, have launched a bid to clear his name. Mr Anwar was freed from jail on Thursday, after a conviction for sodomy was quashed by a Malaysian court.

Anwar launches bid to clear name


TOKYO - Japan #39;s benchmark Nikkei stock index hit a five-week closing high Monday on upbeat capital spending figures for the April-June quarter by Japanese companies.

Nikkei hits 5-week closing high on upbeat capital spending data


AFP - The foreign ministers of India and Pakistan held a closing round of talks amid reports of progress on peripheral issues, but the nuclear rivals remained deadlocked on Kashmir.

India and Pakistan wind up talks, deadlock on Kashmir (AFP)


The discovery of 10 letter bombs has prompted a police warning to the public to exercise caution. Bedfordshire Police said none of the improvised devices - containing lighter fluid - had ignited, despite the fact that some had been opened.

Public warning over letter bombs


China is stepping up its hard line against internet pornography by threatening life imprisonment for anyoner caught peddling porn.

Pornsters face life in China smut crackdown


BESLAN, Russia (Reuters) - Russia on Monday mourned the  deaths of hundreds of children and adults in its worst hostage  drama as criticism mounted over the way President Vladimir  Putin and his security forces handled the crisis.

Russia Mourns Hostage Deaths, Putin Criticized


An impressive first-half display from Brazil saw the Selecao defeat Bolivia 3-1 to move back to the top of the South American World Cup qualifying group.

South American World Cup Qualifiers: Brazil Ease Past Bolivia


Japan carmaker Toyota enters a joint venture to produce saloon cars in southern China.

Toyota to open south China plant


So Long XMLHack!


Making games for the future consoles is going to take a lot of time and money, a games conference is told.

Next gen games prove a challenge


Ever since they met in fourth grade, Brett Johnson Harman and Kevin McCann were as close as brothers.  quot;They had the same mannerisms, the same kind of humor, and they even looked alike, quot; said McCann #39;s father, Dennis McCann.

2 charged after Chicago area pals are slain in NC tragedy


BRUSSELS (Reuters) - A proposed settlement between  Coca-Cola Co. and the European Commission to end a long-running  antitrust case over fizzy drinks is not yet set in stone, the  European Union's executive said on Monday.

EU: Coke Anti-Trust Deal Not Set in Stone


AFP - The French Internet provider Wanadoo will construct its own broadband network in the Netherlands and hopes to reach 55 percent of Dutch homes, a spokesman told the Financieele Dagblad.

French Internet provider Wanadoo will build Dutch broadband network (AFP)


Confidence in service firms has been hit by rising oil prices and interest rates but manufacturers have seen the best rate of orders for nine years, two surveys show.

Service Sector Hit By High Oil Costs


Falling costs, new technology, and competition, with a nudge from regulatory changes, are bringing fiber closer to homes in the US just a few years after the idea seemed all but written off.

Has Your Broadband Had Its Fiber?


Reuters - The clock is running out on a\highly publicized prediction that a major earthquake will rip\through Southern California by Sunday.

No Sign Yet of Predicted Big California Earthquake (Reuters)


Luke Donald says his win in the European Masters on Sunday bodes well for his upcoming Ryder Cup debut. Donald was one of European captain Bernhard Langer #39;s two picks for the match, which takes place at Oakland Hills, Michigan from 17-19 September.

Donald runs into Ryder form


BAGHDAD, Iraq -- A US military official in Iraq said seven American marines have been killed Monday in a car-bomb explosion. Several other Marines have been wounded in the attack.

US Marines Die In Fallujah Car Bombing


Reuters - (Clint Willis is a freelance writer who covers mutual funds\for Reuters. Any opinions in the column are solely those of Mr.\Willis.)

Funds: What Makes a Fund a Winner? (Reuters)


NEW YORK, September 3 (New Ratings) - The European Union has reportedly made significant progress in settling its prolonged antitrust case against The Coca-Cola Co (KO.

Coca-Cola closer to settling EU antitrust case


FT.com - Softbank's hopes of starting a mobile phone service were dealt a blow on Monday after the Japanese telecoms regulator decided not to allocate bandwidth to new entrants for the time being.

Softbank's hopes on mobile services dashed (FT.com)


Coca-Cola Co. moved closer to settling a five-year European Commission antitrust probe after regulators said an offer from the world #39;s biggest soft-drink maker to revamp its sales practices is very good.

Coca-Cola Makes Very Good #39; Bid to End Probe, EU Says (Update2)


The Felix Diaz who struggled mightily for most of the time he has spent at the major league level this season was nowhere to be found Sunday afternoon, and that was a most pleasant development as far as the White Sox were concerned.

Sox rookie Diaz dials it up against Ichiro, Mariners


Reuters - A statement posted on a Web site\purportedly by an Iraqi group which said it was holding two\French hostages set a  #36;5 million ransom on Monday and issued a\48-hour deadline for its demands to be met.

Iraq Group Sets Ransom, Deadline for French Release (Reuters)


After spending the first 29 starts of his career mostly confined to the East Coast, Supah Blitz found out what everyone eventually does - it #39;s much better at Del Mar. In his

Supah Blitz captures Del Mar BC Handicap


Japanese baseball players will strike for the first time if owners proceed with a proposed merger of two teams, the players #39; union said Monday.

Japanese baseball players set to strike


Labor Day is one of those terms, like driveway and parkway, that means the opposite of what it seems to mean. Honoring the nation #39;s workers, Labor Day is not for working but for picnics.

From overtime rules to job losses from outsourcing overseas to <b>...</b>


BUOYED by ever-increasing crowd figures and television ratings, rugby union yesterday announced a significant expansion of the southern hemisphere season which includes an assault on the traditional September AFL and NRL finals series.

Super powers make move on September


BOSTON - The Boston Red Sox put themselves in great position for a run at the AL East-leading New York Yankees with a great homestand.

Red Sox, Schilling roll on


JOHN Howard #39;s plea for voters to trust him with the economy is paying early dividends, an exclusive Herald Sun poll shows. The Coalition has moved ahead of Labor by 52 per cent to 48 per cent as the Prime Minister #39;s interest rates campaign takes hold.

PM edges ahead in latest poll


AP - Hanging stockings by the chimney with care? Retailers hope that St. Nicholas soon will be there  #151; to hang a 42-inch plasma-screen TV.

Retailers Looking to Move Plasma TV's (AP)


Cazenove, the Queen #39;s broker, will tomorrow be under pressure to divulge the state of merger talks at its annual shareholder meeting, with US giants circling the firm.

Cazenove faces scrutiny over merger talks


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.

Oil Tip-Toes Higher, Watches Stocks, OPEC (Reuters)


Reuters - The Iraq war and concerns about\terrorism may determine the outcome of the upcoming election,\and they appear to have bolstered support for President Bush in\at least one Republican bastion in the swing state of\Wisconsin.

Bush Backers in Wisconsin Say He Is Decisive in War (Reuters)


The Iraqi kidnappers of two French reporters who have been missing since Aug. 20 today demanded a \$5 million ransom as a condition for their release, according to a statement posted on an Islamic Web site.

Iraqi Kidnappers of French Reporters Demand Ransom (Update1)


A space capsule set to plunge into Earth #39;s atmosphere with a piece of the Sun this Wednesday has spawned additional projects ranging from spacecraft design to the detection of dangerous asteroids.

Capsule to bring the Sun down to Earth


The Slovak and Czech governments Monday rejected a proposal by French Finance Minister Nicolas Sarkozy to axe structural funds for new EU members whose taxes were lower than the European average.

Slovaks and Czechs reject French minister #39;s suggestion over EU <b>...</b>


Britain #39;s Jenson Button has justified his decision to leave BAR for Williams as the dispute over his future moves towards a conclusion.

Button defends F1 decision


Reds general manager Dan O #39;Brien said Sunday what he has hinted at for the last month or so: Dave Miley and his staff will be back for 2005.

Reds pick up Miley #39;s option for 2005


AP - Astros pitcher Brandon Backe hit his first career homer, a two-run shot, and allowed one run in seven innings to keep Houston in the thick of the NL wild-card chase with an 11-5 rout of the Cincinnati Reds on Monday.

Streaking Astros Clock Reds 11-5 (AP)


p2pnet.net News- James Jackson, vp of legal affairs for Sony Pictures Entertainment, filed for bankruptcy protection just days before a lawsuit accusing him and his wife of involuntary servitude, false imprisonment, invasion of privacy, negligence and

Maid sues Sony Pictures exec


A massive car bomb exploded on the outskirts of the Iraqi city of Fallujah, killing seven United States Marines and wounding several others, a US military official said.

Blast kills seven US Marines in Iraq


NEW YORK - Bill Clinton underwent a successful quadruple heart bypass operation Monday to relieve severely clogged arteries that doctors said put the former president at grave risk of suffering a heart attack.    Clinton is expected to make a full recovery, but doctors said he was fortunate to have checked himself into the hospital when he did...

Clinton Has Successful Quadruple Bypass


Microsoft last week warned Windows XP users to scour their systems for spyware before downloading Service Pack 2. An Associated Press report quoted Microsoft executives saying some spyware could cause computers to freeze upon installation.

Microsoft: scan for spyware before downloading SP2


NEW DELHI, 7 September 2004 - India and Pakistan stuck to their guns on the Kashmir issue as the foreign ministers of the two countries concluded their talks yesterday on what was described as a positive note.

No Kashmir Breakthrough


Tiger Woods's reign as the world's top player ends at 264 weeks as Vijay Singh has seized the No. 1 spot after beating Woods to win the Deutsche Bank on Monday.

Golf's New No. 1


Contradicting fears that the semiconductor industry #39;s pace of development is slowing, Intel Corp has announced that it has achieved a milestone in shrinking the size of transistors that will power its next-generation chips.

Intel lauds milestone in shrinking chips


The Philippines Saturday expressed quot;deepest sympathy quot; to the families of the dead in the Russian school siege on Friday, in which 322 people were killed when Russian troops stormed

Philippines mourns dead in Russian school siege


Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) said yesterday it was in talks with the Jinan City Commercial Bank (JNCCB) about buying a stake in the regional lender.

CBA to purchase local lender #39;s share


For it to happen on Labor Day became a perfectly fitting reward for Vijay Singh, golf #39;s most noted laborer. The man from Fiji who closes practices ranges for a living opened a new door in world golf Monday.

Singh knocks Woods from No. 1 with victory at TPC of Boston


AP - Islanders scrambled to put up storm shutters and stock up on supplies as the fourth major hurricane of the season churned closer to the Caribbean, packing sustained winds of 105 mph.

Caribbean Braces for Another Hurricane (AP)


In a summer when many of the studios' biggest bets failed to pay off, it was familiarity in the form of sequels and low-budget comedies that resonated with movie audiences.

Summer Box Office Hits a High, Despite Lows


Pump prices have been climbing in advance of Labor Day, as they often do before the last major drive-away weekend of the summer. The average price for self-serve regular

Pump prices may dip after Labor Day