Tuesday, January 6
Woman charged with voter sign-up fraud
ST. LOUIS, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- A former voter registration worker for two groups has been charged in St. Louis with federal voter registration fraud, U.S. prosecutors said.
Bush thanks U.S. forces
FORT MEYER, Va., Jan. 6 (UPI) -- U.S. President George W. Bush Tuesday thanked the nation's service members as he spoke at a military appreciation parade in Fort Meyer in Virginia.
Freshmen change congressional tone
WASHINGTON, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- The political tone on Capitol Hill will likely change given the makeup of the 111th U.S. Congress, political observers say.
Diplomats Say Gaza Agreement Could Take Several Days
WASHINGTON -- With more civilian casualties in the Gaza Strip, diplomats accelerated efforts on two tracks Tuesday in search of a formula to end the fighting between Israel and the militant Palestinian group Hamas.
White House calls for Gaza cease-fire
WASHINGTON, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- The White House Tuesday called for a "durable and lasting" cease-fire in the Gaza conflict.
3 governors visit troops in Iraq
BAGHDAD, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- Three U.S. governors, Jon Corzine of New Jersey, Christine Gregoire of Washington and Rick Perry of Texas, were in Iraq meeting soldiers Tuesday.
Newborn's body dumped in trash
JERSEY CITY, N.J., Jan. 6 (UPI) -- Jersey City, N.J., police said they were trying to find the body of a newborn baby apparently thrown out as trash.
Poll: Senate should reject Burris
WASHINGTON, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- A majority of Americans say Roland Burris should not be allowed to join the U.S. Senate, a USA TODAY/Gallup Poll indicates.
Settlement reached for N.J. Superfund site
NEWARK, N.J., Jan. 6 (UPI) -- A multiparty settlement has been reached to ensure a highly polluted landfill site in New Jersey is cleaned up, federal officials said Tuesday.
Coleman says he will challenge recount
MINNEAPOLIS, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- Sen. Norm Coleman, R-Minn., says he will challenge the result of the U.S. Senate recount in which he received 225 votes fewer than Democrat Al Franken.
Jeb Bush says he won't seek Senate seat
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., Jan. 6 (UPI) -- Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush said Tuesday he will not run for the U.S. Senate.
Saudis claim immunity from Sept. 11 suits
WASHINGTON, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- Saudi Arabia is protected by blanket immunity from accusations it bears responsibility for the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks, attorneys say.
Bristol Palin's boyfriend quits oil job
ANCHORAGE, Alaska, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- The father of Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin's grandchild has quit his oil field apprenticeship because of questions about his eligibility, his father said.
Kilpatrick aide Beatty gets 120-day term
DETROIT, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- A Michigan judge Tuesday sentenced an ex-aide to imprisoned former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick to 120 days in jail on perjury and other charges.
Former Ill. inmate to collect millions
CHICAGO, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- Lawyers for Madison Hobley say the former Illinois death row inmate is moving ahead to collect $6.5 million in a legal settlement with the city of Chicago.
30 killed, 55 hurt in Gaza school bombing
GAZA, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- An Israeli air strike hit the perimeter of a school in Gaza City, killing at least 30 and wounding 55, United Nations officials said Tuesday.
Blagojevich impeachment panel delayed
SPRINGFIELD, Ill., Jan. 6 (UPI) -- Illinois state lawmakers say they have delayed their timetable for the impeachment process of embattled Democratic Gov. Rod Blagojevich.
Weight waivers help fill U.S. Army ranks
WASHINGTON, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- A waiver program for overweight teenagers is helping the U.S. Army meet its recruiting goals, but some critics are questioning its long-term wisdom.
More Afghan troops needed, U.S. rep. says
ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill., Jan. 6 (UPI) -- U.S. Rep. Mark Kirk, R-Ill., returning from a three-week tour of Afghanistan, says more U.S. troops need to be sent to the country quickly to stabilize it.
Saddam's AK-47 turned in to Wash. police
LAKEWOOD, Wash., Jan. 6 (UPI) -- Fort Lewis, Wash., officials say they don't know how a soldier came into possession of a collector's item -- an AK-47 rifle from Saddam Hussein.
Lockheed touting virtues of F-35 again
FORT WORTH, Texas, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- Lockheed Martin executives say critics of the new F-35 Joint Strike Fighter still don't see the need for multi-role warplanes in U.S. military doctrine.
Bush authorizes airlifts in Darfur
WASHINGTON, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush has ordered an airlift of supplies for international peacekeeping forces in the Darfur region of Sudan to begin immediately.
Suit over air passenger's shirt settled
NEW YORK, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- The American Civil Liberties Unions said it settled a lawsuit filed by an airline passenger who was hassled because his T-shirt had Arabic writing on it.
N. Korea's Kim stresses energy production
PYONGYANG, North Korea, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- More energy production will help North Korea meet its economic goals for 2009 and beyond, the country's leader, Kim Jong Il , said during a power plant visit.
Poll: Kennedy loses favor with N.Y. voters
NEW YORK, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- Caroline Kennedy's popularity is waning after launching a public campaign to be appointed to a vacant New York U.S. Senate seat, a poll indicated.
Board blames student for punch injury
LONDON, Ontario, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- A Canadian school board denies any liability in a schoolyard fight last year in which a boy's single punch fractured an 11-year-old student's skull.
Pakistani says tortured in terror arrest
LAHORE, Pakistan, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- A one-time Pakistani terror suspect says he was subjected to more than six years of torture and abuse by U.S. captors and plans to sue the government.
Monday, January 5
Franken declares he's won U.S. Senate seat
ST. PAUL, Minn., Jan. 5 (UPI) -- Democrat Al Franken, with a Canvassing Board ruling in hand, declared Monday he has won the U.S. Senate seat from Republican Norm Coleman, who hasn't conceded.
Whitman resigns from corporate boards
SACRAMENTO, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- Meg Whitman, the former chief executive officer of the Internet auction site eBay, is inching toward a run for California governor in 2010, observers say.
U.S. college plans to expand in Iraq
BAGHDAD, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- A U.S. college with a campus in Baghdad says it plans to open three more sites for U.S. soldiers in Iraq within the next five years.
Pirates thwarted in Gulf of Aden
BEIJING, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- A Sierra Leone cargo ship with 32 Chinese crew members on board outran four pirate boats in the Gulf of Aden Monday, Chinese officials in Beijing said.
Kansas senators don't want Gitmo detainees
LEAVENWORTH, Kan., Jan. 5 (UPI) -- The two U.S. senators from Kansas say they don't want terror suspects held at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, to be transferred to the Fort Leavenworth U.S. Army base.
India Turns Over Mumbai Info to Pakistan
Officials said India turned over to Pakistan evidence that linked "elements" in Pakistan to the November terrorist attacks in Mumbai, India.
VA suicide risk highest in first 12 weeks
ANN ARBOR, Mich., Jan. 5 (UPI) -- Veterans with depression are at highest risk for suicide in the 12 weeks after they are hospitalized for psychiatric conditions, U.S. researchers said.
Israeli campaign, foreign diplomacy go on
GAZA, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- Israel said Monday its operation against Hamas in Gaza would go on until the security situation was revised and Hamas wasn't firing rockets into Israel.
EPA sued to clean up Chesapeake Bay
WASHINGTON, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- An environmental group filed a lawsuit Monday to require the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to clean up the 64,299-square-mile Chesapeake Bay.
Swedes may help resolve Ukraine's gas bill
STOCKHOLM, Sweden, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- A European Union delegation headed to Ukraine after nine countries reported natural gas supply problems due to Ukraine's dispute with Gazprom over a bill.
Video arcade focuses on Army recruitment
PHILADELPHIA, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- A U.S. Army official said a $13 million video arcade in Philadelphia is intended to recruit potential soldiers and educate the public about the Army.
Ethiopian troops enter Somali rebel area
GARBAHAREY, Somalia, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- Ethiopian troops have entered parts of Somalia's Gedo region near the borders with Ethiopia and Kenya, forcing Islamic rebels to retreat, witnesses say.
Hamas: Rockets won't stop
GAZA, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- A senior Hamas official says the Palestinian militant group has no intention of ending its rocket fire from Gaza into Israel.
Taliban militants kill three accused spies
ISLAMABAD, Pakistan, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- Taliban-leaning militants in Pakistan's North Waziristan region killed three men accused of spying for the United states, tribesmen said Monday.
Iran crackdowns show election worries
TEHRAN, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- Crackdowns by hard-line Iranian political elements may signal growing fear of a strong electoral challenge to President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, analysts say.
Ill. Lt. Gov. to appoint corruption panel
SPRINGFIELD, Ill., Jan. 5 (UPI) -- Illinois Lt. Gov. Pat Quinn says he will name a former federal prosecutor to head a panel aimed at reforming state government.
Russia plans to keep testing missile
MOSCOW, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- Russia plans to continue testing its Bulava intercontinental ballistic missile, a military spokesman said Sunday.
Sunday, January 4
Brown calls for Gaza cease-fire
LONDON, Jan. 4 (UPI) -- British Prime Minister Gordon Brown, breaking with the United States over Gaza, called Sunday for an immediate cease-fire.
Gaza death toll surpasses 500
GAZA, Jan. 4 (UPI) -- Israel said it sustained its first troop fatality Sunday in its offensive against Palestinian militants in Gaza, which has claimed more than 500 lives.
Schumer: Senate should seat Franken
WASHINGTON, Jan. 4 (UPI) -- Sen. Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., said Sunday the Senate should seat Democrat Al Franken to succeed Republican Norm Coleman, whose Senate term expired Saturday.
Iraqi TV station disputes shooting account
BAGHDAD, Jan. 4 (UPI) -- An Iraqi television station says a producer seriously injured when shot by U.S. soldiers was not acting suspiciously when she approached them.
Peres: Hamas getting a lesson in Gaza
WASHINGTON, Jan. 4 (UPI) -- The Israeli ground invasion of Gaza is giving Hamas "a real and serious lesson," President Shimon Peres said Sunday on U.S. television.
George H.W. Bush: No advice for Obama
WASHINGTON, Jan. 4 (UPI) -- Former U.S. President George H.W. Bush said Sunday he would like to see another of his sons, Jeb, become president.
Reid: Democrats won't seat Burris
WASHINGTON, Jan. 4 (UPI) -- U.S. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid said Sunday Democrats will not seat Roland Burris, the man named by Illinois' embattled governor to Barack Obama's seat.
Country museum to keep key artifacts
NASHVILLE, Jan. 4 (UPI) -- An official with the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum says the Nashville site will get to keep several key artifacts despite a bankruptcy claim against it.
Cheney defends Israeli ground operation
WASHINGTON, Jan. 4 (UPI) -- U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney said Sunday Israel did not consult the United States before invading Gaza.
Virginia awaits word on carrier base move
NORFOLK, Va., Jan. 4 (UPI) -- Virginia officials say they're anxiously awaiting a decision by the U.S. Navy on whether it will move an aircraft carrier's base to Florida.
Burris flap raises Dem racial questions
WASHINGTON, Jan. 4 (UPI) -- The attempt to seat former Illinois Attorney General Roland Burris in the U.S. Senate is raising difficult racial questions for Democrats, observers say.
Blagojevich charges shut down Ill. gov't
SPRINGFIELD, Ill., Jan. 4 (UPI) -- With an impeachment committee of Illinois state lawmakers meeting to consider the ouster of Gov. Rod Blagojevich, state government has halted, observers said.
Former DNC chair declares for Va. governor
MCLEAN, Va., Jan. 4 (UPI) -- Former Democratic National Committee chairman Terry McAuliffe says he has decided to run for governor of Virginia.
Saturday, January 3
Franken ahead by whisker as recount ends
ST. PAUL, Minn., Jan. 3 (UPI) -- The Minnesota recount ended Saturday with Democratic challenger Al Franken leading Republican former U.S. Sen. Norm Coleman by 225 votes.
Thousands in London protest over Gaza
LONDON, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- Thousands of people joined a protest Saturday in London against the Israeli bombardment of Gaza.
Security Council meets on Gaza invasion
UNITED NATIONS, N.Y., Jan. 3 (UPI) -- U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon Saturday called for an end to Israeli ground operations in Gaza, his spokeswoman said.
Hamas warns Israel of fight to death
GAZA, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- A Hamas spokesman promised Israel a fight to the death as ground forces crossed into Gaza late Saturday.
Israel calls up reserves
JERUSALEM, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- Israel began calling up reserves Saturday as troops crossed the border into Gaza, officials said.
Bon Jovi to help pay off Clinton debt
NEW YORK, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- Rocker Jon Bon Jovi will headline a fundraiser for future U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton aimed at reducing her electoral debt, organizers say.
Friends: Mills angry over nanny's lawsuit
LONDON, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- Heather Mills, ex-wife of British singer Paul McCartney, is furious over a lawsuit filed against her by her former nanny, her friends say.
Israeli ground forces invade Gaza
GAZA, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- Israeli ground troops forged into Gaza with bulldozers, tanks and armored vehicles Saturday evening, as the military vowed to destroy Hamas's infrastructure.
Thailand deemed ready to host ASEAN
BANGKOK, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- Thailand is ready to play host to next month's Association of Southeast Asian Nations summit despite its recent political turmoil, officials for the group say.
Coulter slams Michelle Obama in book
NEW YORK, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- Conservative political commentator Ann Coulter says in her new book that Michelle Obama, wife of U.S. President-elect Barack Obama, has questionable style.
Kim Jong Il makes New Year's apperance
SEOUL, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- North Korean leader Kim Jong Il has made his first public appearance of 2009 by inspecting a military unit, North's state-run Korean Central News Agency said.
Burris won't be seated by Congress' start
CHICAGO, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- Roland Burris' appointment to the U.S. Senate likely won't be certified by Illinois state officials in time for the start of the 111th Congress, analysts say.
Atta Mills named winner of Ghana run-off
ACCRA, Ghana, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- Opposition candidate John Atta Mills has won a close presidential runoff election in Ghana, electoral officials said Saturday.
Sri Lanka pushes on after key rebel defeat
KILINOCHCHI, Sri Lanka, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- Sri Lankan government forces Saturday continued a military campaign against rebels a day after capturing their de facto capital of Kilinochchi, officials said.
Canadians kill alleged suicide bomber
KANDAHAR, Afghanistan, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- Canadian soldiers in Afghanistan found three large explosive devices in a sport utility vehicle after they shot and killed the driver, the military said Friday.
Friday, January 2
Black college gets water service back
ATLANTA, Jan. 2 (UPI) -- The water began running again Friday at a historically black college in Atlanta after Morris Brown College paid $100,000 to the city toward its bill.
Meshaal: Israel has 'black destiny'
DAMASCUS, Syria, Jan. 2 (UPI) -- Exiled Hamas leader Khaled Meshaal warned Israel Friday against invading Gaza with ground forces.
U.S. general warns Australia on Gitmo
CANBERRA, Australia, Jan. 2 (UPI) -- A retired U.S. general involved with the controversial military commissions at Guantanamo warned Australia Friday against accepting detainees.
Voting completed in final Ghana district
ACCRA, Ghana, Jan. 2 (UPI) -- The polls closed Friday in Ghana as the outgoing president urged the two parties locked in a tight race for his office to respect the final results.
Pakistan Said Securing Afghan Supply Lines
The Pakistani military is making progress against Taliban militants threatening Pakistan-to-Afghanistan supply routes, U.S. military officials said Friday.
Egyptian Authorities Clamp Down on Gaza Protests
CAIRO, Egypt -- Demonstrators gathered across the Muslim world Friday in fresh protests against the Israeli offensive in Gaza, while Egyptian authorities again used force to silence protesters in Cairo.
U.S. troop deaths in Iraq drop in 2008
BAGHDAD, Jan. 2 (UPI) -- The number of U.S. troop deaths in Iraq last year fell two-thirds compared to 2007, U.S. military officials said Friday.
Pakistan said securing Afghan supply lines
ISLAMABAD, Pakistan, Jan. 2 (UPI) -- The Pakistani military is making progress against Taliban militants threatening Pakistan-to-Afghanistan supply routes, U.S. military officials said Friday.
No sign of missing cruise line worker
VERO BEACH, Fla., Jan. 2 (UPI) -- The U.S. Coast Guard says search efforts taking place Friday in Vero Beach, Fla., have found no trace of a cruise line worker who went overboard this week.
Rocket attacks on Israel injure 3
ASHKELON, Israel, Jan. 2 (UPI) -- Three people suffered light wounds Friday after rockets fired from the Gaza Strip struck parts of Israel, including the city of Ashkelon, the military says.
Canadian soldier charged in Afghan's death
OTTAWA, Jan. 2 (UPI) -- A Canadian officer serving in Afghanistan was charged with second-degree murder in the shooting death of a suspected insurgent, the military said.
U.S. moo-ve to rebuild Iraq's dairy herds
BAGHDAD, Jan. 2 (UPI) -- The U.S. Marines are buying cows for Iraqi women, whose husbands died in combat, to help rebuild the country's dairy economy, a military spokeswoman said.
Military: Forces enter Kilinochchi
COLOMBO, Sri Lanka, Jan. 2 (UPI) -- The Sri Lankan military, claiming its biggest victory against the Tamil Tigers, said Friday it was about to capture the rebels' main stronghold of Kilinochchi.
Thursday, January 1
Israel Tries Diplomacy to Explain Fighting
Israel turned to diplomacy to try to explain its operation in Gaza Thursday amid reports that a Hamas military commander was killed in an Israeli airstrike.
Israel tries diplomacy to explain fighting
GAZA, Jan. 1 (UPI) -- Israel turned to diplomacy to try to explain its operation in Gaza Thursday amid reports that a Hamas military commander was killed in an Israeli airstrike.
Many Ordinary Cubans Left Out of 50th Anniversary Event: 50th Year Events Tempered With Economic Doubt
Jan. 1--SANTIAGO DE CUBA -- Many ordinary Cubans will be left out of the invitation-only ceremony this evening marking the 50th anniversary of the Cuban revolution.
Lawsuit alleges Mich. bridge painted badly
ST. IGNACE, Mich., Jan. 1 (UPI) -- The Ohio company hired to paint the Mackinac Bridge in Michigan did a poor job in completing the task and should pay compensation, a lawsuit alleges.
'Cha Cha Slide' writer suing record label
CHICAGO, Jan. 1 (UPI) -- A record label failed to pay Willie "DJ Casper" Perry Jr. royalties for his hit "The Cha Cha Slide," the Chicago disc jockey alleges in a lawsuit.
Missile strike kills four in Pakistan
ISLAMABAD, Pakistan, Jan. 1 (UPI) -- Four people were killed and many wounded in a suspected drone missile strike in Pakistan's South Waziristan tribal area Thursday, officials said.
U.S. Navy sub commander fired
KINGS BAY, Ga., Jan. 1 (UPI) -- A U.S. Navy ballistic-missile submarine skipper has been relieved of his duties over a loss of confidence in his ability to command, a Navy spokeswoman said.
Pakistani forces say 40 held in operation
ISLAMABAD, Pakistan, Jan. 1 (UPI) -- The Pakistani military says its forces destroyed suspected militant homes in the Khyber area, the overland supply route to U.S. and NATO forces in Afghanistan.
Wednesday, December 31
NATO welcomes additional U.S. troops
KABUL, Afghanistan, Jan. 1 (UPI) -- NATO forces in Afghanistan are awaiting details of the new U.S. strategy expected when Barack Obama takes office as president, an alliance spokesman said.
Ethiopian troops seen packing in Somalia
MOGADISHU, Somalia, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Ethiopian troops appeared to be preparing to leave Somalia Wednesday, witnesses said.
Family alleges war hero mistreated
LONDON, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- The family of a 101-year-old British war hero says a hospital sent him home in a taxi wearing ill-fitting sleepwear and clutching a bag of dirty clothes.
Justice Dept. files suit on behalf of vet
KANSAS CITY, Mo., Dec. 31 (UPI) -- The U.S. Justice Department said it filed a lawsuit on behalf of an Air Force reservist, accusing his employer of violating the reservists' employment rights.
Slain man's family seeks Disneyland statue
ANAHEIM, Calif., Dec. 31 (UPI) -- The parents of a black man mistakenly shot by Anaheim, Calif., police say they want Disneyland to erect a statue of their late son at the theme park.
Anti-gun groups sue to stop new rules
WASHINGTON, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- An anti-gun group is suing to stop enactment of Bush administration rules that would let people carry concealed weapons in many U.S. parks.
Philly mayor to appeal libraries ruling
PHILADELPHIA, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Philadelphia's mayor says he will appeal a judge's order blocking plans to shut down 11 city libraries Wednesday.
New York Guard prepares for New Year's Eve
ALBANY, N.Y., Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Members of the New York Army and Air National Guard were standing by New Year's Eve, ready to respond if an emergency arises, state military officials said.
Calif. sues over endangered species rules
SACRAMENTO, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- California officials say they filed suit against the U.S. Department of the Interior over a rule change that jeopardizes the state's wildlife and its budget.
Two U.S. soldiers slain in Iraq
BAGHDAD, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Two U.S. soldiers who sustained combat injuries in Iraq this week died Wednesday, military officials said.
Military con man gets probation
SAN ANTONIO, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- A U.S. Army veteran from Texas who faked claims of wounds and decorations and a career in the Army Rangers has been sentenced to three years probation.
California 'three strikes' sentence voided
SAN FRANCISCO, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- California's attorney general's office says it hasn't yet decided if it will appeal a ruling against a prison term imposed under the state's three-strikes law.
'Police' T-shirt leads to arrest, lawsuit
BELLEVILLE, Ill., Dec. 31 (UPI) -- A police officer in Belleville, Ill., violated the constitutional rights of a man for wearing a T-shirt with the word "Police," a lawsuit alleges.
Developer files TVA sludge suit
KNOXVILLE, Tenn., Dec. 31 (UPI) -- A Knoxville, Tenn., area real estate developer sued the Tennessee Valley Authority for damages resulting from a massive spill of coal sludge.
Israel's New York Envoy Says Ground Attack an Option
Dec. 31--In its latest offensive, Israel has used airstrikes to batter Hamas forces in Gaza, but has not ruled out a ground attack, Israel's consul general in New York said yesterday.
Dems, Republicans both reach top 10 upsets
WASHINGTON, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Barack Obama's unlikely wins in two traditionally Republican states in his quest for the U.S. presidency was among Politico's top 10 political upsets in 2008.
Conn. Catholic leaders accused under RICO
NORWICH, Conn., Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Connecticut's Catholic Church is charged with racketeering in a suit that claims church officials covered up alleged sex abuse by priests, documents say.
U.S. probing al-Qaida suspect's slaying
BAGHDAD, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- U.S. military officials say they are investigating allegations American troops executed an unarmed Iraqi al-Qaida suspect and cut off his finger.
Atheists sue to erase God from swearing-in
WASHINGTON, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- A group of atheists is suing to bar prayers and references to God during the swearing-in ceremony of U.S. President-elect Barack Obama.
Conn. inmate sues to get halal meat
HARTFORD, Colo., Dec. 31 (UPI) -- A Connecticut prison inmate has sued the state, claiming that his religious freedom as a Muslim has been violated by the lack of halal meat.
'Secret Santa' cheers legless Canadian vet
EDMONTON, Alberta, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- A Canadian soldier who lost his legs to a land mine in Afghanistan says he's mystified by anonymous Christmas gifts left at his Edmonton home for 12 days.
Arab League meets on Gaza response
CAIRO, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Arab League members met Wednesday in Cairo to formulate a response to Israel's airstrikes against Palestinian militants in Gaza, observers said.
Britain, Australia, Iraq sign troop pact
BAGHDAD, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- British and Australian troops will leave Iraq in July under withdrawal agreements approved by the countries' leaders, the Iraqi Defense Ministry said.
Iraq, Afghan death tolls at lowest in 2008
WASHINGTON, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- U.S. troop deaths in Iraq and Afghanistan were at their lowest combined yearly total since the Iraq war began as 2008 comes to a close, officials said.
Lord's Resistance Army denies massacre
KAMPALA, Uganda, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Ugandan Lord's Resistance Army rebels say they didn't massacre more than 400 people in the Democratic Republic of Congo as has been alleged.
Lobbyist sues NYT over McCain article
NEW YORK, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- A lobbyist says The New York Times falsely implied that she had a romantic relationship with U.S. Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., and is suing the newspaper.
Iraq security deal to change U.S. tactics
BAGHDAD, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- U.S. troops accustomed to staging mass arrests of suspected Iraqi insurgents will be forced to acquire warrants as part of a new security deal, officials say.
Israel rejects humanitarian truce in Gaza
GAZA, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Israel officials said Wednesday its military campaign in Gaza would continue, rejecting a French proposal for a truce for humanitarian reasons.
Tuesday, December 30
Ex-Army worker guilty of spying for Israel
NEW YORK, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- A former employee at a U.S. Army arsenal research center in New Jersey pleaded guilty Tuesday to spying for Israel, federal authorities said.
Justice Dept. sues Alabama for veteran
MONTGOMERY, Ala., Dec. 30 (UPI) -- The federal government sued an Alabama state agency Tuesday, claiming it failed to promptly rehire a National Guard member after he served in Iraq.
Prominent surgeon killed in Iraq
PHILADELPHIA, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- The funeral service for a Philadelphia surgeon killed in Iraq has been moved to the city's Catholic cathedral because so many mourners are expected.
Obama works out with military in Hawaii
HONOLULU, Calif., Dec. 30 (UPI) -- President-elect Barack Obama has been working out in a military gym during his vacation in Hawaii, a move that pleases service members and veterans.
Blagojevich appointee faces opposition
CHICAGO, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- Former Illinois Attorney General Roland Burris was tapped by embattled Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich to fill President-elect Barack Obama's open Senate seat.
Medvedev signs law extending terms
MOSCOW, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- Russian President Dmitry Medvedev signed amendments to the Russian constitution Tuesday that extend the terms of president and parliament.
Lawsuit raises jail phone call questions
WILMINGTON, Del., Dec. 30 (UPI) -- Legal analysts say the starvation death of a parrot is raising questions about the rights of prisoners in the United States to communicate with the outside.
Rep. Flake seen as rising Arizona star
PHOENIX, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- U.S. Rep. Jeff Flake, R-Ariz., is being tabbed as an up-and-comer in Arizona Republican circles and could be a contender for U.S. Senate, observers say.
Report: Atlas, Delta rockets to save money
WASHINGTON, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- U.S. military rockets can send astronauts safely to the moon sooner and for billions of dollars less than NASA's troubled Ares I rocket, documents suggest.
Israel military seeks temporary Gaza truce
GAZA, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- Israel's military leaders are recommending a diplomatic initiative to establish a 48-hour truce in the country's offensive against Gaza militants, sources say.
Pro-Obama Haitian-Americans want help
LAUDERHILL, Fla., Dec. 30 (UPI) -- Haitian-American leaders who turned out the vote for U.S. President-elect Barack Obama in Florida say they expect him to help ease crises in their homeland.
Florida investors sue Haitian 'minister'
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla., Dec. 30 (UPI) -- Haitian-American investors in Florida say a self-styled evangelical minister conned them out of their life savings in a massive Ponzi scheme.
Coleman wants more ballots recounted
ST. PAUL, Minn., Dec. 30 (UPI) -- Sen. Norm Coleman's campaign indicated an additional 650-700 ballots should be counted in Minnesota's still-undecided U.S. Senate race.
Thai PM dodges protesters, gives speech
BANGKOK, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva was forced to give his inaugural speech at the Foreign Ministry Tuesday as protesters blocked Parliament, witnesses said.
Pakistan blocks NATO forces' supply route
ISLAMABAD, Pakistan, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- A key supply route for U.S. and NATO forces in Afghanistan was blocked Tuesday by Pakistani troops beginning an offensive against militants, officials said.
Hasina posts landslide Bangladesh win
DHAKA, Bangladesh, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- Former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will return to power after her party posted a landslide win in national elections, officials said.
No troop buildup along border, India says
NEW DELHI, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- Indian army officials Tuesday denied reports of a troop buildup along the India-Pakistan border, saying Pakistan had "whipped up war rhetoric."
Monday, December 29
Survey: Most look to a happier 2009
LAS VEGAS, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- Young adult Democrats, who voted in large numbers for Barack Obama for U.S. president, are most confident that 2009 will be happier, a survey indicates.
Tons of drugs seized in Mideast seas
MANAMA, Bahrain, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- More than 20 tons of illegal drugs have been seized by U.S. and British warships in the North Arabian Sea and Gulf of Aden since October, officials say.
Gerogia moves tanks closer to S. Ossetia
TBILISI, Georgia, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- Georgian officials have confirmed moving tanks and armored vehicles near the border of the breakaway region of South Ossetia.
Writer defends Obama 'Magic Negro' song
MEMPHIS, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- The writer of a controversial song called "Barack the Magic Negro" says critics targeting a Republican Party leader for distributing the parody are misguided.
Suicide bombers kill 4 in Afghanistan
KABUL, Afghanistan, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- Two suicide bombers struck in Afghanistan's Parwan and Kandahar provinces Monday, killing at least four people and injuring many more, authorities said.
Ill. impeachment panel airs grievances
SPRINGFIELD, Ill., Dec. 29 (UPI) -- A panel of Illinois lawmakers called to consider the impeachment of Gov. Rod Blagojevich says it's OK for them to air their grievances about him.
Divorce rates for Army, Marines increasing
FAIRFAX, Va., Dec. 29 (UPI) -- The divorce rate among members of the U.S. Army and Marines increased this year, leading to efforts aimed at reducing the trend, an official says.
Ukrainian ship standoff enters 96th day
MOGADISHU, Somalia, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- Negotiations between Somali pirates and the owners of the hijacked Ukrainian ship MV Faina reached their 96th day Monday with no resolution, observers said.
Tough confirmation foreseen for Holder
WASHINGTON, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- U.S. Attorney General-designate Eric Holder will likely draw fire from Republicans in his upcoming U.S. Senate confirmation hearings, analysts say.
Colleges urged to adapt for U.S. veterans
KALAMAZOO, Mich., Dec. 29 (UPI) -- Colleges throughout the United States should work to make incoming U.S. veterans comfortable as students under a new federal bill, officials say.
Embassy confirms U.S. frigate in Georgia
TBILISI, Georgia, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- A U.S. Navy frigate arrived in the Georgian port city of Batumi Monday for a two-day visit, the U.S. embassy in Georgia said.
Canada drops $36M late fine for 'copters
OTTAWA, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- The Canadian government has dropped plans to fine the U.S. Sikorsky helicopter manufacturer $36 million for late delivery of military aircraft.
Guinean opposition leader wants elections
CONAKRY, Guinea, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- A Guinean opposition leader says a pledge by the country's new military rulers to hold elections within two years is too long to wait.
Major TV networks pull out of Iraq
BAGHDAD, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- The United States' three top broadcast television networks have quietly stopped sending full-time correspondents to Iraq, industry watchers say.
Rocket fired on Israeli site kills one
ASHKELON, Israel, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- At least one person died and five were injured Monday when a missile fired from Gaza struck a construction site in Ashkelon, Israel, officials said.
Bangladesh elections amid tight security
DHAKA, Bangladesh, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- Bangladeshi voters cast ballots amid tight security Monday to elect a new government to replace the two-year rule of a military-backed interim government.
Sunday, December 28
Pacific gale injures three aboard tanker
KODIAK, Alaska, Dec. 28 (UPI) -- The U.S. Coast Guard sent a helicopter Sunday to airlift three crew members from a Chinese tanker injured when their ship ran into heavy weather in the Pacific.
Tijuana officers return to duty
TIJUANA, Mexico, Dec. 28 (UPI) -- The Tijuana police department has returned 500 officers to their posts in the Mexican border city's troubled east side after more than a month break.
Kennedy vows not to be beholden to anyone
NEW YORK, Dec. 28 (UPI) -- Caroline Kennedy says if she is picked to fill New York's soon-to-be open U.S. Senate seat she will be an independent voice in Washington.
Religion at recruitment sites targeted
WASHINGTON, Dec. 28 (UPI) -- The Pentagon says religious literature can be dispersed at military recruitment sites across the United States, but no religion can get preferential treatment.
Israel calls up 6,000 military reservists
JERUSALEM, Dec. 28 (UPI) -- The Israeli government Sunday approved a draft of more than 6,000 military reservists it says may be necessary for a ground offensive in Gaza, observers said.
Navy settles whale sonar suit
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 28 (UPI) -- The U.S. Navy and environmentalists are both claiming victory in a lawsuit that challenged the Navy's use of sonar as dangerous to whales.
Japan said set to drop F-22 buy plans
TOKYO, Dec. 28 (UPI) -- The Japanese military is set to drop plans to replace its aging F-15 jet fighter fleet with the U.S.-made F-22 Raptor stealth fighter, sources say.
Saturday, December 27
RNC candidates split on song about Barack
WASHINGTON, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- The chairman of the Republican National Committee said Saturday he was "shocked and appalled" by a political parody, "Barack the Magic Negro."
Aussie couple gets damages for defamation
SYDNEY, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- An Australian couple have been awarded significant damages because an ex-business partner of the husband gossiped and lied that they were dishonest.
Israel condemned by Arabs
CAIRO, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- Arab leaders immediately condemned the Israeli airstrikes Saturday on the Hamas stronghold of Gaza.
Women to be allowed on Japanese destroyers
TOKYO, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- Women will be allowed to serve on the Japanese navy's destroyers, officials said.
Australia struggling with deep-sea rescues
CANBERRA, Australia, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- Submariners in Australia face a slim possibility of deep-sea rescue because the government has been unable to create an adequate system, experts say.
Bangladeshis prepare for elections
DHAKA, Bangladesh, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- Bangladesh is stage to its final political rallies ahead of parliamentary elections Monday in the southern Asian nation, party officials said.
South Ossetia alleges border reinforcement
TBILISI, Georgia, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- A South Ossetian official has accused Georgia of moving military forces to the border, a charge denied by the Georgian Interior Ministry.
India explains moving troops to border
NEW DELHI, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- India's government Saturday dismissed claims its movement of more troops to its western border with Pakistan is because of mounting tensions with its neighbor.
Unions, industry spar over vote rules
WASHINGTON, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- U.S. businesses are gearing up to do battle with worker groups in a political fight over rules governing how unions can be formed and joined, analysts said.
Kennedy: Family name a mixed blessing
NEW YORK, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- U.S. Senate hopeful Caroline Kennedy says that her famous family name dissuaded, rather than prompted her, to seek public office in the past.
Bush: Honor military at Christmastime
WASHINGTON, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- U.S. President George W. Bush Saturday called on Americans to "remember the men and women of our armed forces" at Christmastime.
Ban Ki-moon calls for Bhutto slay probe
UNITED NATIONS, N.Y., Dec. 27 (UPI) -- The United Nations is moving to set up a commission to investigate the 2007 assassination of former Pakistani Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, officials said.
Guinea coup leaders to meet envoys
CONAKRY, Guinea, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- The new ruling military junta in Guinea says it will hold talks with foreign envoys to explain its coup and to reassure the international community.
Thousands gather for Bhutto remembrance
GARHI KHUDA BAKHSH, Pakistan, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- Mourners gathered Saturday to remember slain former Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto as officials put the military on alert, observers said.
China deploys anti-pirate warships
SANYA, China, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- A new era of naval history has been launched with China sending warships outside its territorial waters for the first time in centuries, officials said.
Friday, December 26
Ukraine plans conversion of Russian base
KIEV, Ukraine, Dec. 26 (UPI) -- Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko has commissioned a panel to plan for civilian uses for the naval base at Sevastopol when the Russian lease ends in 2017.
Pakistan moves troops to Indian border
ISLAMABAD, Pakistan, Dec. 26 (UPI) -- Pakistan canceled leave for its soldiers and was redeploying troops to the Indian border, officials said Friday.
Australian submarine rescue system fails
SYDNEY, Dec. 26 (UPI) -- The Australian navy is looking into future ways to rescue submariners after its submarine rescue system failed to regain its certification.
RNC candidate sends out controversial song
WASHINGTON, Dec. 26 (UPI) -- A Tennessee candidate for the Republican National Committee sent a Christmas greeting to RNC members that included a song called "Barack the Magic Negro."
Seven killed in Iraqi bomb blasts
BAGHDAD, Dec. 26 (UPI) -- A roadside bomb killed three Iraqi soldiers Friday in Diyala Province, the Diyala Operations Command said.
France wants common EU policy on Gitmo
PARIS, Dec. 26 (UPI) -- The French Foreign Ministry said Friday it wants European Union members to reach a common policy regarding Guantanamo Bay prisoners.
Teacher attacked by child blames culture
LONDON, Dec. 26 (UPI) -- A British teacher says colleagues who saw a 12-year-old trying to strangle him told him they were afraid to help him because they might be charged with assault.
British army eyes easing recruit rules
LONDON, Dec. 26 (UPI) -- British army officials say they want to minimize the requirements for all military recruits to improve the military's recruitment numbers.
Jindal aide hints at presidential bid
BATON ROUGE, La., Dec. 26 (UPI) -- A senior aide to Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal says the political newcomer could focus on a U.S. presidential bid if conditions are right.
Diplomats asked to meet Guinea coup heads
CONAKRY, Guinea, Dec. 26 (UPI) -- The leaders of a military coup in Guinea say foreign diplomats should visit the West African country to learn of their intentions.
Low voting, donations may hurt Kennedy bid
NEW YORK, Dec. 26 (UPI) -- Caroline Kennedy's bid for New York's soon-to-be vacant U.S. Senate seat could be hindered by her lack of voting and party donations, an expert says.
Jeb Bush said mulling U.S. Senate run
TALLAHASSEE, Fla., Dec. 26 (UPI) -- Republican political strategists say former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush is leaning toward running for the U.S. Senate in 2010.
Lebanon finds, defuses eight rockets
BEIRUT, Lebanon, Dec. 26 (UPI) -- Eight armed Katyusha rockets aimed at Israel were discovered and defused by Lebanese army officials, local media reports indicated Friday.
Obama visits Hawaii Marine Corps base
OAHU, Hawaii, Dec. 26 (UPI) -- U.S. President-elect Barack Obama paid a visit to armed services members having dinner with their families at a Hawaii military base, officials said.
Chinese naval fleet sails to fight piracy
BEIJING, Dec. 26 (UPI) -- A three-ship fleet will comprise China's first far away overseas naval mission since 1949 to fight piracy off the coast of Somalia, officials said.
Candidates swap assassination claims
DHAKA, Bangladesh, Dec. 26 (UPI) -- Two former Bangladeshi prime ministers are trading accusations about alleged assassination plots against them in the lead-up to parliamentary elections.
Thursday, December 25
Afghans to be trained to fight Taliban
KABUL, Afghanistan, Dec. 25 (UPI) -- A U.S. project is to begin next year to help the Afghan regime train and arm its people to fight growing Taliban militancy in their areas, officials told CNN.
PM surrenders to coup leaders
CONARKY, Gabon, Dec. 25 (UPI) -- Guinean Prime Minister Tidiane Souare and two dozen members of his government Thursday surrendered to leaders of a military coup that took power this week.
Obama inauguration hits a few bumps
WASHINGTON, Dec. 25 (UPI) -- Barack Obama's inauguration team has had no trouble finding donors for the Washington parties but is scrambling to find rewards for prominent guests.
Judge OKs 20th Century's 'Watchmen' claim
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 25 (UPI) -- A federal judge granted a copyright ownership claim by the Hollywood studio, 20th Century Fox, regarding the forthcoming film "Watchmen."
N.Y. Supreme Court to hear 'Runway' case
NEW YORK, Dec. 25 (UPI) -- The New York Supreme Court will hear a legal battle over the network home of the TV series "Project Runway," a judge has ruled.
Troops in Iraq to pull out of some bases
BAGHDAD, Dec. 25 (UPI) -- U.S. troops are packing up Forward Operating Base Callahan in Baghdad, a symbol for a changing U.S. military role in Iraq, the military said.
Warner Bros. suing CBS over 'Men'
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 25 (UPI) -- CBS officials did not pay Warner Bros. Television agreed-upon fees as part of the U.S. companies' deal for the series "Two and a Half Men," a lawsuit alleges.
At least 18 rebels killed in Sri Lanka
COLOMBO, Sri Lanka, Dec. 25 (UPI) -- The Sri Lankan military said Thursday its forces have killed at least 18 Tamil Tiger rebels while repulsing a counter-attack in a northern area.
U.S. troops spend 6th Christmas in Iraq
BAGHDAD, Dec. 25 (UPI) -- U.S. troops Thursday spent their sixth Christmas in Iraq and the last before sovereignty is handed to the Iraqi government.
Zimbabwe activists ordered released
HARARE, Zimbabwe, Dec. 25 (UPI) -- Zimbabwe human rights activist Jestina Mukoko and other abducted political opposition figures have been ordered released from custody, observers said.
Two NATO soldiers slain in Afghanistan
KABUL, Afghanistan, Dec. 25 (UPI) -- Two NATO soldiers have been slain in Afghanistan, military officials said Thursday.
Obama taps Washington for inspiration
HONOLULU, Dec. 25 (UPI) -- U.S. President-elect Barack Obama says Americans can draw inspiration from their first president while facing a Christmas of economic uncertainty.
Army chief says 30,000 extra troops needed
WASHINGTON, Dec. 25 (UPI) -- U.S. military officials warn the Army needs 30,000 more active-duty troops to safely cover all of its commitments around the world.
3 Turks killed, 12 hurt in Kurd attack
ANKARA, Turkey, Dec. 25 (UPI) -- Three Turkish soldiers were killed and 12 others injured in an attack by Kurdish rebels near the Iraq border, officials said Thursday.
Wednesday, December 24
Bush calls troops
WASHINGTON, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush phoned 45 deployed service members Wednesday, delivering holiday greetings and thanking them for their service.
Israeli jets hit Hamas target, killing 1
JERUSALEM, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- Israeli fighter jets struck Hamas targets in Gaza Wednesday, killing one gunman in retaliation for Palestinian rocket volleys into Israel, officials said.
Man cleared in terror plot seeks apology
BRISBANE, Australia, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- An Indian doctor wants an apology and compensation from the Australian government after he was cleared of involvement in a terrorist plot, his lawyer said.
Germany sues to stop Italian damage claims
THE HAGUE, Netherlands, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- Germany has filed a lawsuit with the main U.N. judicial body in an attempt to block Italian courts from seeking compensation for Nazi war crimes.
Bush revokes pardon for contributor
WASHINGTON, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush revoked a pardon Wednesday after media reports linked it to a political contribution, a reversal the White House calls unprecedented.
Minn. Supreme Court rules against Coleman
ST. PAUL, Minn., Dec. 24 (UPI) -- The Minnesota Supreme Court Wednesday ruled against U.S. Sen. Norm Coleman in his ongoing fight to prevent Democrat Al Franken from taking his seat.
Aquino apologizes to Estrada -- or not
MANILA, Philippines, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- Corazon Aquino has upset some allies by apologizing to another former president of the Philippines, Joseph Estrada, officials said.
DJ AM seeks legal recourse for air crash
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- A suit filed in Los Angeles by DJ AM, aka Adam Goldstein, claims the pilots, among others, were responsible for the plane crash that left him severely burned.
Clinton foundation helps Hillary debt
WASHINGTON, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- U.S. Sen. Hillary Clinton's debt-ridden presidential campaign is getting help from her husband's charitable foundation, aides confirm.
Guinean military, government in standoff
CONARKY, Guinea, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- Conflicting claims from Guinea: Rebel soldiers have named an army captain as the country's new leader, but the civilian government says it's still in control.
Ukraine PM: Yushchenko plots emergency
KIEV, Ukraine, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko is planning to declare a state of emergency in the country and cancel elections, a political opponent says.
U.S.: No mercenaries fought with Georgia
MOSCOW, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- The United States says no American mercenaries fought alongside Georgian troops in Tblisi's August conflict against Russia in South Ossetia.
China wants detainees if Gitmo closes
BEIJING, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman says his country wants all Chinese terror suspects being held at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, repatriated if the U.S. site closes.
China denounces Zimbabwe arms reports
BEIJING, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- China is denouncing as fabrications media reports that it funneled arms to Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe via the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Kim Jong Il praised for military prowess
PYONGYANG, North Korea, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- North Korea says it will build on Kim Jong Il's "military-first" policies as it marks the 17th anniversary of his ascension as supreme army commander.
Wal-Mart settles 63 labor lawsuits
BENTONVILLE, Ark., Dec. 24 (UPI) -- U.S. retail giant Wal-Mart Stores Inc., agreed to settle 63 lawsuits filed by employees claiming underpayment or state law violations.
Iraqi official says U.S. troop deal needed
BAGHDAD, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- U.S. troops must remain in Iraq until Iraqi forces are fully capable of replacing foreign forces, Iraqi Vice President Tariq al-Hashimi said Wednesday.
U.S., Afghans to train local militias
KABUL, Afghanistan, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- U.S. military officials say they hope plans to arm local Afghan militias to help fight the Taliban yield results similar to the success seen in Iraq.
Durable goods orders down 1 percent
WASHINGTON, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- Durable goods orders decreased by 1 percent in the United States in November, the U.S. Commerce Department reported Wednesday.
N.Y. gov said miffed at Kennedy backers
ALBANY, N.Y., Dec. 24 (UPI) -- New York Gov. David Paterson is annoyed that Caroline Kennedy's backers are saying a decision to appoint her as a U.S. senator is a done deal, sources say.
Tuesday, December 23
U.S. Army to honor Nazi-enslaved soldiers
WASHINGTON, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- The U.S. Army says it will honor 350 U.S. soldiers held as slaves by Germany during World War II.
Minn. recount to go into 2009
ST. PAUL, Minn., Dec. 23 (UPI) -- Minnesota's State Canvassing Board said Tuesday it will meet to decide on the final vote totals in the U.S. Senate race Jan. 6, the date the new session starts.
Northrop, Gen. Dynamics land sub contract
NEWPORT NEWS, Va., Dec. 23 (UPI) -- Northrop Grumman and General Dynamics will build the next eight Virginia class U.S. nuclear attack submarines under a new contract, the companies say.
Bush sends final Christmas message
WASHINGTON, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- President George W. Bush, in his final Christmas message as president of the United States, asked for help for the needy.
Blago brother's lawyer says no wrongdoing
NASHVILLE, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- An attorney for the brother of embattled Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich says Robert Blagojevich of Nashville is innocent of any political wrongdoing.
Gadhafi: West provoking Russia
WASHINGTON, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi accused U.S. and European leaders Tuesday of creating a dangerous arms race by their "provocative" policy towards Russia.
Calif. court rebuffs lab animal lawsuit
SAN FRANCISCO, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- A California appeals court ruled, in a suit claiming inhumane research, that Washington alone has jurisdiction over federally funded animal experiments.
Lugar named honorary inauguration co-chair
WASHINGTON, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- U.S. Sen. Richard Lugar, R-Ind., has been named as one of 15 honorary co-chairs of President-elect Barack Obama's inaugural committee, officials said Tuesday.
Civilians say they still rule in Guinea
CONAKRY, Guinea, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- The Guinean prime minister said Tuesday that his government is still running the country after the death of the president and an attempted military coup.
Libya deal voided airliner bomb award
WASHINGTON, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- Relatives of seven Americans killed in a 1989 airliner bombing are incensed at a deal struck by Washington nullifying their court judgment against Libya.
Crash reports likely to be censored
SAN DIEGO, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- Military sources say the results of an investigation into a jet crash in San Diego likely will be censored before public release.
Iraq MPs approve non-U.S. troop pact
BAGHDAD, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- Iraq's parliament has approved a resolution to legalize the presence of non-U.S. foreign troops after Jan. 1, observers said.
Palin shares lessons learned from campaign
JUNEAU, Alaska, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin says she learned to have her own staff and trust her instincts while running on the Republican presidential ticket.
U.S. miffed by NATO Afghan drug stance
BRUSSELS, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- NATO's top military commander says he's surprised that some member nations aren't following through on promises to battle the Afghanistan drug trade.
Bush visits Walter Reed patients, has MRI
WASHINGTON, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush not only visited patients at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, he was a patient himself briefly.
Lawyers gearing up after Denver air crash
HOUSTON, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- A bevy of plaintiffs' lawyers says it expects Continental Airlines to pay millions in damages to passengers aboard the jet that went off the runway in Denver.
Blagojevich adept at getting big donations
CHICAGO, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- A campaign finance analyst says embattled Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich collected more five-figure contributions than his two predecessors combined.
China considers building aircraft carrier
BEIJING, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- Chinese military officials say they are considering factors that would be involved in building the country's first aircraft carrier.
India hardens tone; Pakistan calls up jets
NEW DELHI, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- Pakistan scrambled fighter jets over its larger cities as Indian officials said all options were available in the capture of terrorists who attacked Mumbai.
Uganda civilians fear rebel atrocities
KAMPALA, Uganda, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- Residents of northern Uganda say they're fearful a regional military offensive there may spur rebels to commit atrocities on civilians.
Belgium king seeks new prime minister
BRUSSELS, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- The search was on for a new Belgian prime minister Tuesday after Yves Leterme resigned in the wake of a bank bailout scandal, observers said.
Ex-military adviser pleads in porn case
SAN DIEGO, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- A man who was a military adviser in the Clinton administration and for California's lieutenant governor has pleaded guilty to child pornography charges.
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