High-priority business news Monday, February 8 Crude oil price rise slightly   UPI / 5:24PM NEW YORK, Feb. 8 (UPI) -- Prices for March delivery crude oil rose in New York Monday morning, holding above $71 per barrel despite continued stress in equity markets. Grain futures rise Monday   UPI / 5:14PM CHICAGO, Feb. 8 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed higher on the Chicago Board of Trade Monday despite a continued downward trend among equity markets on Wall Street. 2011 Shelby GT500 aims for lean speed   UPI / 3:44PM DEARBORN, Mich., Feb. 8 (UPI) -- U.S. automaker Ford Motor Co. said Monday the 2011 Shelby GT500 Mustang would be 102 pounds lighter and yet more powerful than the 2010 model. Thain re-emerges at CIT Group   UPI / 1:34PM NEW YORK, Feb. 8 (UPI) -- CIT Group, a lender to thousands of small businesses and retail chains, said it hired former Merrill Lynch chief John Thain as its top executive. Fed planning for economic recovery   UPI / 12:44PM WASHINGTON, Feb. 8 (UPI) -- The U.S. Federal Reserve bank is likely to use a variety of options to slow the economy when the recovery is stronger, bank officials said. Consumers dropping the credit habit   UPI / 11:44AM NEW YORK, Feb. 8 (UPI) -- U.S. consumers are turning away from credit cards in favor of debit cards, cash or checks, research groups and the Federal Reserve Bank have said.

Sunday, February 7 Report: Toyota plans new Prius recall   UPI / 9:34PM TOKYO, Feb. 7 (UPI) -- Toyota Motor Corp. intends to recall more than 300,000 2010 Prius hybrids this week following complaints about brake problems, The New York Times said Sunday. Woman crawls under tracks to leave home   UPI / 7:34PM CALLAHAN, Fla., Feb. 7 (UPI) -- A Florida woman, 66, said she has to crawl between two railroad cars to go anywhere from her home after being trapped by the cars. Jailed socialite misses elite lifestyle   UPI / 5:24PM GATESVILLE, Texas, Feb. 7 (UPI) -- A Scottish socialite turned convicted Texas scam artist says she once lived in 30,000-square-foot home outside Edinburgh with maids and cooks. Local car dealers see opportunity to win over customers: Toyota's recall problems could prove beneficial to GM and Ford   AP / 1:34PM Feb. 7--Craig Schreiber and Jim Walters can attest to the wisdom of old English proverbs, especially the one that suggests one man's misfortune is another man's luck. G7 finance ministers meet in Arctic   UPI / 9:04AM IQALUIT, Nunavut, Feb. 7 (UPI) -- The finance ministers of the Group of Seven met Saturday in an unusual venue, Iqaluit on Baffin Island, capital of the territory of Nunavut.

Saturday, February 6 Australian mining deal for $60B, 20 years   UPI / 5:44PM CANBERRA, Australia, Feb. 6 (UPI) -- The Australian mining company Resourcehouse Ltd. said Saturday it has reached a $60 billion export deal with a major Chinese power company. Haiti seeks tougher building codes   UPI / 3:04PM PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti, Feb. 6 (UPI) -- Tougher building codes will be adopted in Haiti in the wake of the devastating Jan. 12 earthquake, government officials say. Greek trucks block crossing to Bulgaria   UPI / 1:34PM PROMAHON, Greece, Feb. 6 (UPI) -- Greek farmers protesting low prices Saturday blocked a key crossing to Bulgaria as they scaled back roadblocks elsewhere in Greece, authorities said. Kraft plans more British manufacturing   UPI / 10:34AM LONDON, Feb. 6 (UPI) -- U.S. food giant Kraft Foods says it will greatly expand its British manufacturing base with the purchase of Cadbury PLC. U.N. helps alpaca farmers in Peru   UPI / 1:35AM LIMA, Feb. 6 (UPI) -- Emergency veterinary kits are being sent to the mountains of Peru to help alpaca farmers devastated by heavy rain and flooding, a U.N. agency said Friday.

Friday, February 5 Crude oil falls under $72 in a 2-month low   UPI / 6:05PM NEW YORK, Feb. 5 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices slid under $72, a two-month low, Friday after a sharp drop Thursday followed by a week ending recovery in equity markets. Super Sunday defensive strategy for food   UPI / 5:54PM WASHINGTON, Feb. 5 (UPI) -- A U.S. government agency has issued a defensive strategy to avoid foodborne illness during the big game. Dodd: Bank reform talks stalled   UPI / 4:04PM WASHINGTON, Feb. 5 (UPI) -- Sen. Chris Dodd, D-Conn. said Friday he has asked his staff to draw up a bank reform bill since attempts to compromise with a key Republican have stalled. Regulators urge small business lending   UPI / 3:24PM WASHINGTON, Feb. 5 (UPI) -- U.S. federal regulators Friday urged banks to increase lending to small businesses but to make sure such operations were creditworthy. Quarter of car crash victims have no ins.   UPI / 2:54PM ROCKVILLE, Md., Feb. 5 (UPI) -- Twenty-five percent of motor vehicle crash victims treated in U.S. hospital emergency departments in 2006 had no health insurance, health officials say. Ford makes small splash in India with Figo   UPI / 2:05PM CHENNAI, India, Feb. 5 (UPI) -- Ford Motor Co. said Friday that its first small Figo hatchback had rolled off the production line in India, where the automobile market is dominated by Suzuki. GM opts to stay at RenCenter in Detroit   UPI / 12:14PM DETROIT, Feb. 5 (UPI) -- U.S. automotive giant General Motors Co. has abandoned plans to move its global headquarters in Detroit, a source close to the company said. Toyota president bows and apologizes   UPI / 12:04PM TOKYO, Feb. 5 (UPI) -- The president of Toyota Motors Co. bowed at a news conference Friday and apologized for quality control problems that had led to massive Toyota recalls. Publishers drop Amazon pricing model   UPI / 12:04PM NEW YORK, Feb. 5 (UPI) -- Separate pricing structures at two U.S. Internet retail companies have created a shift away from Amazon's $9.99 pricing model in the nascent e-book market. Unemployment rate falls to 9.7 percent   UPI / 9:34AM WASHINGTON, Feb. 5 (UPI) -- The U.S. unemployment rate fell unexpectedly in January to 9.7 percent from 10 percent with some sectors adding jobs, the Department of Labor said Friday.

Thursday, February 4 Cuomo files civil charges against Lewis, Price, Bank of America   AP / 8:34PM Feb. 4--New York Attorney General Andrew Cuomo today announced that his office is filing civil charges against former Bank of America Corp. chief executive Ken Lewis, former chief financial officer Joe Price and the Charlotte bank. Grain futures close mostly higher Thursday   UPI / 6:34PM CHICAGO, Feb. 4 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed mostly higher on the Chicago Board of Trade Thursday despite equities losing ground in Asia, Europe and the United States. Former UBS client pleads guilty in tax case   UPI / 2:54PM WASHINGTON, Feb. 4 (UPI) -- Florida businessman Jack Barouh has become the seventh UBS bank customer to plead guilty to a felony tax charge, the U.S. Department of Justice said Thursday. BofA settles one Merrill Lynch case   UPI / 1:44PM CHARLOTTE, N.C., Feb. 4 (UPI) -- Bank of America settled one lawsuit and faced another as New York state said it would take bank executives to court over its purchase of Merrill Lynch. Banks in Europe maintain lending rates   UPI / 12:14PM LONDON, Feb. 4 (UPI) -- The Bank of England and the European Central Bank in Frankfurt, Germany said in separate announcements they would keep lending rates unchanged. Canadian building permits up in December   UPI / 10:14AM OTTAWA, Feb. 4 (UPI) -- Canadian municipalities issued $6.2 billion in building permits in December, a 32.6 percent year-over-year gain, Statistics Canada reported Thursday.

Wednesday, February 3 Yahoo to sell HotJobs employment service to Monster for $225 million   AP / 9:34PM Feb. 3--By Mike Swift Crude oil prices settle slightly   UPI / 5:34PM NEW YORK, Feb. 3 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices settled just under $77 per barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange Wednesday, dropping during a mixed day in equity markets. Grain futures sharply lower Wednesday   UPI / 5:14PM CHICAGO, Feb. 3 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed sharply lower on the Chicago Board of Trade Wednesday as the dollar index jumped 0.5 percent. Crude oil supplies rose in recent week   UPI / 3:44PM WASHINGTON, Feb. 3 (UPI) -- U.S. crude oil inventories rose by 2.3 million barrels in the week ending Jan. 29, the U.S. Energy Information Administration said Wednesday. Big Three look to capitalize on recall: Automakers are offering incentives hoping to entice Toyota owners to switch   AP / 3:34PM Feb. 3--When the going gets tough, the tough -- and reliable -- gets going by making recalls. Prius emerges as new concern for Toyota   UPI / 2:54PM WASHINGTON, Feb. 3 (UPI) -- Braking problems in the 2010 Toyota Prius have surfaced as another problem for the Japanese automaker that recalled 2.3 million U.S. vehicles in January. NHTSA says park suspicious Toyotas   UPI / 2:14PM WASHINGTON, Feb. 3 (UPI) -- The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says drivers of recalled Toyotas should park their cars if they notice stiffer than normal gas pedals. Illegal lobster harvesters going to prison   UPI / 12:05PM MIAMI, Feb. 3 (UPI) -- A federal judge said two men will each spend a year and a day in prison for illegally harvesting lobsters in the Florida Keys. Foreclosures rising as a quick fix option   UPI / 11:54AM WASHINGTON, Feb. 3 (UPI) -- The foreclosure crisis is still bubbling away underneath improvements in the U.S. economy, a private research group said. Mortgage activity rises in week   UPI / 11:34AM WASHINGTON, Feb. 3 (UPI) -- The volume of applications for U.S. mortgages rose 21 percent in a week on a seasonally adjusted basis, an industry group said Wednesday. 9/11 terror pilots' apartment to be razed   UPI / 11:14AM HOLLYWOOD, Fla., Feb. 3 (UPI) -- The Hollywood, Fla., apartment shared by two Sept. 11 terrorists will be razed to become a parking lot and swimming pool, the building's owner said. ADP says job losses hit 2-year low   UPI / 11:05AM ROSELAND, N.J., Feb. 3 (UPI) -- Payroll firm Automatic Data Processing said Wednesday U.S. private sector job losses slowed to the lowest number since February 2008. Immunization program begins in Haiti   UPI / 1:44AM PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti, Feb. 3 (UPI) -- The Haitian Ministry of Health, supported by United Nations organizations, began a targeted immunization program Tuesday, U.N. officials said.

Tuesday, February 2 AIG expected to pay reduced bonuses   UPI / 11:14PM NEW YORK, Feb. 2 (UPI) -- American International Group plans to pay $100 million in bonuses this week to employees in its Financial Products division, sources said Tuesday. U.S. looks for Toyota electrical problem   UPI / 9:24PM WASHINGTON, Feb. 2 (UPI) -- U.S. officials are looking into whether the problem with Toyota vehicles involves the recalled vehicles' electrical systems, sources tell CNNMoney.com Parts arriving at dealers to fix Toyotas   AP / 5:34PM Feb. 2--They're here. The first of the repair kits with parts for Toyota's sticky gas pedals have arrived at one local dealer, and more are expected there and at other dealerships by week's end, though the wait is not quite over for customers. Grain futures make gains Tuesday   UPI / 5:24PM CHICAGO, Feb. 2 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed higher on the Chicago Board of Trade Tuesday as equities rose and the dollar fell against the euro and the yen. Volcker pushes to rein in banking   UPI / 4:54PM WASHINGTON, Feb. 2 (UPI) -- Presidential adviser Paul Volcker told members of the Senate Banking Committee the U.S. public did not believe in rescuing speculative banks. Groups advocate for better school lunches   UPI / 4:04PM WASHINGTON, Feb. 2 (UPI) -- More than 100 food advocates are working to incorporate healthier food choices for U.S. school lunches as Congress prepares to reauthorize the program. Obama proposes small business loan plan   UPI / 3:24PM NASHUA, N.H., Feb. 2 (UPI) -- U.S. President Barack Obama, speaking in Nashua, N.H., Tuesday introduced a loan program that would use bank bailout money to help small businesses get loans. What to do if your Toyota is on the recall list: Some questions and answers for Toyota owners.   AP / 2:34PM Feb. 2--The massive recall to fix accelerator pedals on some Toyota models will flood dealer service shops with repairs for months. Toyota is recalling about 2.3 million vehicles, and announced Monday how the pedals will be fixed. Greyhound guard suspended after complaints   UPI / 2:05PM MEMPHIS, Feb. 2 (UPI) -- Greyhound officials say a Memphis security guard was suspended after stranded bus passengers complained about their plight to the media. Citibank settles free checking dispute   UPI / 1:44PM ALBANY, N.Y., Feb. 2 (UPI) -- New York State said it reached a nationwide agreement with Citibank to keep more than one million checking accounts free through 2010. Financing for Saab looks murky   UPI / 1:05PM JARFALLA, Sweden, Feb. 2 (UPI) -- Dutch automaker Spyker said it did not have a solid answer to how it would finance a deal to buy Saab from U.S. auto giant General Motors Co. Ky. House OKs national motto license plate   UPI / 11:14AM FRANKFORT, Ky., Feb. 2 (UPI) -- Lawmakers in Kentucky's House of Representatives approved a bill that would allow the nation's motto, "In God we Trust," be on standard license plates.

Monday, February 1 Los Angeles eyeing rainwater ordinance   UPI / 8:05PM LOS ANGELES, Feb. 1 (UPI) -- A proposal by the Los Angeles Department of Public Works would make builders of developments and new homes capture and reuse rainwater runoff, official said. Crude oil prices climb Monday   AP / 6:34PM Crude oil prices rose on the New York Mercantile Exchange Grains mixed with dollar down Monday   UPI / 6:05PM CHICAGO, Feb. 1 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed mixed on the Chicago Board of Trade Monday although equity markets rose and the dollar index fell 0.33 percent. Goldman Sachs jumps on payday report   UPI / 5:44PM NEW YORK, Feb. 1 (UPI) -- A Goldman Sachs spokesman called a report that Chief Executive Officer Lloyd Blankfein was to receive a $100 million bonus check "speculative nonsense." Paulson says bank pay is 'out of whack'   UPI / 4:54PM WASHINGTON, Feb. 1 (UPI) -- Former U.S. Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson Jr. said he thought bankers were overpaid even before the financial crisis gave the issue prominence. Toyota says gas pedal fix is on the way   UPI / 3:54PM TORRANCE, Calif., Feb. 1 (UPI) -- Japanese automaker Toyota Motor Corp. said Monday it has found the solution to its sticking gas pedal problem that led to a massive recall and public apologies. Higher co-pays increase hospital stays   UPI / 3:44PM PROVIDENCE, R.I., Feb. 1 (UPI) -- Increasing co-payments for outpatient visits, at least for senior citizens, may make care far more expensive, U.S. researchers found. Merhige arraignment hearing postponed   UPI / 3:04PM WEST PALM BEACH, Fla., Feb. 1 (UPI) -- An arraignment hearing for a Florida man accused of killing four family members Thanksgiving Day has been postponed, officials say. Tesla Motors to go public   UPI / 2:24PM SAN JOSE, Calif., Feb. 1 (UPI) -- Tesla Motors Inc., a California maker of all-electric vehicles, is ready to go public, a filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission shows. Construction outlays dropped in December   UPI / 12:44PM WASHINGTON, Feb. 1 (UPI) -- Spending on private and public construction in the United States dropped in December compared with November, the U.S. Commerce Department said Monday. Telsa Motors to go public   UPI / 12:04PM SAN JOSE, Calif., Feb. 1 (UPI) -- Telsa Motors Inc., a California maker of all-electric vehicles, is ready to go public, a filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission shows. Laboratory centrifuge rotors are recalled   UPI / 11:24AM WASHINGTON, Feb. 1 (UPI) -- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration says two models of Hettich centrifuge rotors are being recalled due to a safety hazard.

Sunday, January 31 Toyota 'knew of gas pedal fault in 2007,' but firm says problem this time different   AP / 4:34PM TOKYO -- Toyota Motor Corp., currently in the midst of a massive recall of vehicles in the United States, Europe and elsewhere over potentially faulty accelerators, was aware of a gas pedal flaw as early as the spring of 2007, according to industry sources. Chrysler, Fiat rethinking Jeep brand   UPI / 3:44PM DETROIT, Jan. 31 (UPI) -- Chrysler Group LLC is rethinking its venerable Jeep line while seeking to tap new owner Fiat's small car expertise, experts say. Toyota to unveil gas pedal remedy   UPI / 3:24PM DETROIT, Jan. 31 (UPI) -- Toyota Motor Co. has a fix lined up for potentially faulty gas pedals and will reveal it soon, company officials say. Russian, Norwegian firms ink Iraq oil deal   UPI / 12:24PM MOSCOW, Jan. 31 (UPI) -- A Russian-Norwegian consortium has been chosen to develop a massive southern Iraq oil field, officials say.

Saturday, January 30 Markey: Clean energy bill will pass   UPI / 6:24PM DAVOS, Switzerland, Jan. 30 (UPI) -- U.S. Rep. Edward Markey, D-Mass., predicted Saturday that Congress will pass a clean energy bill this year. TransCanada details Alaskan pipeline plan   UPI / 3:34PM ANCHORAGE, Alaska, Jan. 30 (UPI) -- The Canadian pipeline company TransCanada Corp. said in filed documents the cost of its proposed Alaska North Slope pipeline will be more than expected. Russia fires warning at Japanese boats   UPI / 2:44PM VLADIVOSTOK, Russia, Jan. 30 (UPI) -- No one was injured when Russian border guards fired warning shots at two Japanese fishing boats in Russian waters, authorities in Vladivostok said. Truck dealers calls for Haiti donations   UPI / 11:24AM MCLEAN, Va., Jan. 30 (UPI) -- A U.S. automotive trade group says it is calling on truck dealers across the country to donate badly needed vehicles for earthquake relief efforts in Haiti. Five U.S. banks closures announced   UPI / 10:54AM WASHINGTON, Jan. 30 (UPI) -- Banks in Minnesota, California, Georgia, Florida and Washington state have been closed by regulators, officials say. Jury believes woman threatened into theft   UPI / 1:44AM LONDON, Jan. 30 (UPI) -- A London bank employee was acquitted Friday of embezzlement by a jury that apparently believed her abusive boyfriend scared her into theft. Tree-sitters climb down in W.Va.   UPI / 1:05AM CHARLESTON, W.Va., Jan. 30 (UPI) -- Two protesters against the mountain-top removal mining technique climbed down from their trees Friday in West Virginia after nine days, authorities said.

Friday, January 29 Paulson ties Russia to Fannie-Freddie plot   UPI / 10:14PM WASHINGTON, Conn., Jan. 29 (UPI) -- Russia asked China to join it in selling holdings in Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to force an emergency U.S. bailout, former Treasury Secretary Hank Paulson says. Cellphone bans not reducing accidents   UPI / 9:54PM ARLINGTON, Va., Jan. 29 (UPI) -- Laws in California, Connecticut, New York and Washington banning use of hand-held cellphones while driving have not reduced the number of crashes, a study said. Swiss try to halt exodus of farmers   UPI / 8:24PM LAUSANNE, Switzerland, Jan. 29 (UPI) -- A Swiss foundation says it is trying to stop an exodus of mountain farmers leaving for cities by handing out more than $18 million to help sustain their farms. Greek farmers continue 'tractor' protest   UPI / 8:05PM ATHENS, Greece, Jan. 29 (UPI) -- Greece is attempting to reach a compromise with protesting farmers who've used tractors to block the country's roads and border crossings, officials said. Crude oil prices settle lower   UPI / 6:24PM NEW YORK, Jan. 29 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices slid some more on the New York Mercantile Exchange Friday, ending below $73 a barrel despite reports of a robust economic fourth quarter. Strong dollar undermines grain futures   UPI / 5:44PM CHICAGO, Jan. 29 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed lower on the Chicago Board of Trade Friday as the dollar index rose 0.73 percent, putting the dollar at its highest level since August. Parts company says Toyota problem unsolved   UPI / 5:34PM ELKHART, Ind., Jan. 29 (UPI) -- U.S. auto parts supplier CTS said Toyota had exonerated its gas pedal components linked to unexpected acceleration that has triggered a massive recall. Icesave dispute focus of Europe meeting   UPI / 4:24PM THE HAGUE, Netherlands, Jan. 29 (UPI) -- Finance ministers from the United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Iceland met in The Hague Friday to discuss the Icesave savings account dispute, an official says. Alaska oil pipeline leak located   UPI / 3:54PM ANCHORAGE, Alaska, Dec. 9 (UPI) -- Officials say they have found the source of what is believed to be one of the biggest ever leaks of crude oil from the pipeline on the North Slope of Alaska. Hyundai offers rebate to Toyota owners   UPI / 3:14PM ANN ARBOR, Mich., Jan. 29 (UPI) -- Hyundai Motor Co. of South Korea joined rivals with a deal to take advantage of Japanese automaker Toyota Motor Co.'s massive recall troubles. U.S. Congress panel to hear Toyota issue   UPI / 2:24PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 29 (UPI) -- A U.S. congressional panel plans a hearing on complaints about some Toyota vehicles' sudden acceleration amid the Japanese automaker's mounting recalls. $12B in claims in Texas for Hurricane Ike   UPI / 1:04AM AUSTIN, Texas, Jan. 29 (UPI) -- About $12 billion in Texas insurance claims were made for damage from Hurricane Ike, an industry group said Thursday.

Thursday, January 28 Senate confirms Bernanke for second term   UPI / 8:14PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 28 (UPI) -- The U.S. Senate confirmed Ben Bernanke's second term as head of the Federal Reserve Bank Thursday by a 70-30 vote margin, a slim victory for a bank chairman. 3 netted in false fish case   UPI / 8:04PM MOBILE, Ala., Jan. 28 (UPI) -- Three U.S. seafood company owners were indicted Thursday on federal charges they conspired to smuggle and mislabel tons of fish and shellfish from Vietnam. Hundreds of Toyota owners are bringing their cars to Palm Beach County dealers for inspections   AP / 6:34PM Jan. 28--Palm Beach County Toyota dealers took pains Wednesday to reassure customers after the world's largest automaker announced a massive recall that included several of its best-selling models. Grain futures rise Thursday   UPI / 6:24PM CHICAGO, Jan. 28 (UPI) -- Grain futures rose on the Chicago Board of Trade Thursday despite a 0.38 percent rise in the dollar index, which measures the dollar against major currencies. Supermarket bans pajamas, bare feet   UPI / 6:05PM CARDIFF, Wales, Jan. 28 (UPI) -- A Welsh Tesco supermarket has become the first in the country to introduce a dress code, banning customers from shopping in pajamas or bare feet. Borders cuts 124 corporate jobs   UPI / 5:44PM ANN ARBOR, Mich., Jan. 28 (UPI) -- U.S. bookseller Borders Group said it had sent notice to 124 workers that their jobs in corporate administration would end, effective Thursday. In India, fewer banks are boy's clubs   UPI / 4:04PM NEW DELHI, Jan. 28 (UPI) -- Less beer and golf and a stronger focus on merits give Indian women bankers opportunities other cultures ignore, an HSBC bank director in India said. Bailout snubber Ford posts a profit   UPI / 3:24PM DEARBORN, Mich., Jan. 28 (UPI) -- Ford Motor Co. broke the profit barrier in 2009, making a $2.7 billion while U.S. rivals were restructuring in bankruptcy, the company said Thursday. Europe, China caught in Toyota recalls   UPI / 3:05PM TOKYO, Jan. 28 (UPI) -- Beleaguered Japanese automaker Toyota Motors Corp. Thursday said it would recall vehicles in China and Europe due to sticking gas pedals. Report: Green energy funds fall slightly   UPI / 1:24PM DAVOS, Switzerland, Jan. 28 (UPI) -- International support for combating climate change slipped only slightly during the recession, a report presented in Davos, Switzerland, said Thursday. 9 dead in Belgium building collapse   UPI / 11:54AM LIEGE, Belgium, Jan. 28 (UPI) -- At least nine people were killed when an apartment building collapsed in Liege, Belgium, and many more were feared trapped beneath rubble, officials said. Ecuador volcano spews ash across province   UPI / 11:54AM AMBATO, Ecuador, Jan. 28 (UPI) -- Wind shifts brought volcanic ash to a wide area of central Ecuador, including a provincial capital, after a once-dormant volcano erupted, authorities said. Durable goods orders up a touch   AP / 10:34AM U.S. durable goods orders rose slightly in December, rising 0.3 percent after two consecutive months of declines, the Commerce Department reported. Durable goods orders up a touch   UPI / 10:15AM WASHINGTON, Jan. 28 (UPI) -- U.S. durable goods orders rose slightly in December, rising 0.3 percent after two consecutive months of declines, the Commerce Department reported.

Wednesday, January 27 Geithner defends AIG bailout deal   AP / 9:36PM U.S. Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner defended his role in the TARP bailout program and the bailout itself during questioning by a House panel Wednesday. Geithner defends AIG bailout deal   UPI / 9:14PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 27 (UPI) -- U.S. Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner defended his role in the TARP bailout program and the bailout itself during questioning by a House panel Wednesday. Grains futures drop as dollar rises   UPI / 6:24PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 27 (UPI) -- Grain futures were lower on the Chicago Board of Trade Wednesday as the dollar rose against the euro and the yen and equity markets made modest gains. Crude oil supplies drop in week   UPI / 5:54PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 27 (UPI) -- U.S. crude oil inventories fell by 3.9 million barrels in the week ending Jan. 22, the U.S. Energy Information Administration said Wednesday. Toyota stumbles, GM pounces   UPI / 4:54PM DETROIT, Jan. 27 (UPI) -- U.S. automaker General Motors Co. pounced on Toyota's troubles Wednesday, offering incentives to Toyota lease holders who switch to a GM product. At Toyota, efficiency backfired   UPI / 4:14PM TOKYO, Jan. 27 (UPI) -- An auto industry analyst in Japan said Toyota Motor Corp.'s zeal for efficiency backfired when it relied on using identical parts in millions of automobiles. Fed to maintain low lending rates   UPI / 3:54PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 27 (UPI) -- The U.S. Federal Reserve Bank said Wednesday it would maintain its bank-to-bank lending rates at zero to 0.25 percent, despite economic improvements. Chinese drywall plaguing Va. homeowners   UPI / 3:24PM NEWPORT NEWS, Va., Jan. 27 (UPI) -- Several homeowners in Newport News, Va., said they face making mortgage payments on homes contaminated with potentially dangerous Chinese drywall. Mortgage activity falls despite low rates   UPI / 11:35AM WASHINGTON, Jan. 27 (UPI) -- The volume of applications for U.S. mortgages dropped 10.9 percent in a week on a seasonally adjusted basis, an industry group said Wednesday. New home sales slowed in December   UPI / 11:14AM WASHINGTON, Jan. 27 (UPI) -- Sales of new single-family homes fell 7.6 percent in December compared with November, the U.S. Commerce Department said Wednesday. Poll: Media not impressive as watchdog   UPI / 10:24AM PRINCETON, N.J., Jan. 27 (UPI) -- American media's role as government watchdog during the first year of Barack Obama's presidency has been so-so, a Gallup Poll released Wednesday indicated. Many in Haiti afraid to go back indoors   UPI / 2:24AM PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti, Jan. 27 (UPI) -- Close to 100 percent of the population in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, sleep in tents or outside because they fear being inside buildings, an engineer says.

Tuesday, January 26 Argentina, Britain spar over Falklands   UPI / 8:44PM BUENOS AIRES, Jan. 26 (UPI) -- Argentina and Britain are locked in a diplomatic spat over the Falklands, almost 30 years after Britain reasserted its sovereignty by invasion, observers say. Building freeze bad for West Bank workers   UPI / 8:24PM RAMALLAH, West Bank, Jan. 26 (UPI) -- Palestinian construction workers say the freeze on new building in Israeli settlements in the West Bank means lower pay and less work. Toyota suspends sales of 8 models   UPI / 8:05PM TORRANCE, Calif., Jan. 26 (UPI) -- Toyota Motor Sales USA Inc. Tuesday said it has instructed dealers to suspend sales of eight of its models involved in a safety recall announced last week. Soybean futures rise Tuesday   UPI / 5:24PM CHICAGO, Jan. 26 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed mixed on the Chicago Board of Trade Tuesday as early gains in stock markets slipped away by close of trading on Wall Street. Senate bill aimed at spurring new jobs   UPI / 5:04PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 26 (UPI) -- Democratic U.S. Senate leaders say they will set forth initial plans for a more-than-$80 billion bill to help businesses add jobs. WH: Priorities won't suffer budget freeze   UPI / 4:44PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 26 (UPI) -- U.S. President Barack Obama will keep investing in important priorities even though he has proposed a $250 billion budget freeze, his spokesman said Tuesday. BOE's King favors some radical reforms   UPI / 1:54PM LONDON, Jan. 26 (UPI) -- Bank of England Gov. Mervyn King said Tuesday he does not favor assessing a so-called Tobin Tax on bank transactions. Delta posts narrower 4Q loss   AP / 1:34PM Jan. 26--Delta Air Lines Inc., the world's largest air carrier by passengers, today posted a narrower fourth-quarter loss on cost cuts and lower charges. Mortgage lending up in December in Britain   UPI / 1:34PM LONDON, Jan. 26 (UPI) -- Mortgage lending in Britain rose slightly in December from November, but rose 12.5 percent from the same month of 2008, a trade group said. Ford confirms plans for Chicago plant jobs   UPI / 1:14PM CHICAGO, Jan. 26 (UPI) -- U.S. automaker Ford Motor Co. Tuesday confirmed it would hire 1,200 workers to make smaller Explorers in Chicago with a chance to break in a lower hourly wage. Home price indexes dropped in November   UPI / 12:05PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 26 (UPI) -- The S&P/Case-Shiller price index said U.S. home prices fell in November from October, but annual declines have softened. Obama nominates two for Ag, Justice posts   UPI / 9:54AM WASHINGTON, Jan. 26 (UPI) -- U.S. President Barack Obama has unveiled his choice for the Agriculture Department's undersecretary for food safety, the White House said. Olympics have no impact on real estate   UPI / 2:05AM VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Jan. 26 (UPI) -- Cities that win Olympic bids experience neither boom nor bust in real estate prices but they get a boost in construction jobs, Canadian researchers say.

Monday, January 25 March delivery tops $75 per barrel   UPI / 6:34PM NEW YORK, Jan. 25 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices topped $75 per barrel Monday, as equity markets made modest gains following last week's plummet on Wall Street. Grains mixed as dollar falls slightly   UPI / 6:24PM CHICAGO, Jan. 25 (UPI) -- Grain futures were mixed on the Chicago Board of Trade Monday as the equity markets made slight gains and the dollar index dropped 0.14 percent. FDA approves Medtronic heart valve   AP / 4:34PM Jan. 25--The Food and Drug Administration announced today approval for a new type of heart valve that can be implanted through a tube that's inserted in the leg and then guided up to the heart. Sam's Club to cut 11,000 positions   UPI / 2:14PM BENTONVILLE, Ark., Jan. 25 (UPI) -- U.S. retailer Wal-Mart said it would trim 11,000 jobs from its Sam's Club chain, most of them part-time sales jobs it said it would farm out to a contractor. Authorities targeting counterfeit Nikes   UPI / 1:24PM MILWAUKEE, Jan. 25 (UPI) -- Local and federal authorities say certain small stores in Milwaukee are selling counterfeit versions of Nike shoes at discount prices. Existing home sales loses momentum   UPI / 1:04PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 25 (UPI) -- Sales of existing U.S. homes dropped as expected in December ending an eight-month upswing, the National Association of Realtors said Monday. Mortgage market poised for a big test   UPI / 12:24PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 25 (UPI) -- The U.S. government's plan to wind down help for the troubled housing market is a big stakes gamble whose time has come, a Treasury Department official said. $5.4 billion real estate deal goes under   UPI / 9:44AM NEW YORK, Jan. 25 (UPI) -- Owners of an 80-acre Manhattan building complex with 110 buildings said their debt had overwhelmed revenues, forcing them to hand the property to creditors. Two Gaza border crossings opened   UPI / 8:24AM GAZA, Jan. 25 (UPI) -- Two border crossings from Israel into the sealed-off Gaza Strip were opened Monday to allow in humanitarian aid, Palestinian media reported.

Sunday, January 24 Gunmen attack U.S. mining convoy   UPI / 12:14PM JAKARTA, Jan. 24 (UPI) -- Nine people were wounded Sunday in Indonesia when gunmen attacked the convoy of a U.S. mining company in Papua province, authorities said. New bin Laden tape surfaces   UPI / 9:14AM DOHA, Qatar, Jan. 24 (UPI) -- Al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden, in a tape aired on al-Jazeera TV Sunday, claims responsibility for the thwarted Dec. 25 bombing of a Detroit-bound jetliner.

Saturday, January 23 Wis. dairy herd to double despite protests   UPI / 8:24PM MILWAUKEE, Jan. 23 (UPI) -- A Wisconsin dairy farm has been given permission to double its herd despite environmentalists' concerns that manure might poison groundwater supplies. Miner killed in Siberian shaft collapse   UPI / 2:54PM MOSCOW, Jan. 23 (UPI) -- A cave-in Saturday at Russia's largest coal mine killed one worker, authorities in West Siberia said. Farmer kills dairy herd, takes own life   UPI / 2:24PM COPAKE, N.Y., Jan. 23 (UPI) -- An upstate New York farmer shot his herd of 51 dairy cows before turning his rifle on himself, police say. Pope: Catholic priests should blog   UPI / 2:14PM VATICAN CITY, Jan. 23 (UPI) -- Pope Benedict XVI says Catholic priests should maintain blogs and otherwise avail themselves of the Internet's powers to spread the Gospels. U.N.: Tensions still high in Kosovo   UPI / 12:34PM UNITED NATIONS, Jan. 23 (UPI) -- Northern Kosovo is still a flash point as tension remains between Serbian and Albanian communities there, a United Nations official says. Five U.S. banks seized by regulators   UPI / 10:34AM WASHINGTON, Jan. 23 (UPI) -- Struggling banks in five U.S. states have been seized by regulators, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation says. House eyes abolishing Fannie, Freddie   UPI / 10:34AM WASHINGTON, Jan. 23 (UPI) -- A House panel is preparing to recommend that troubled quasi-public U.S. mortgage finance firms Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac be abolished, its chairman says.

Friday, January 22 Court: Swiss erred in giving U.S. data   UPI / 10:34PM BERN, Switzerland, Jan. 22 (UPI) -- A Swiss court has ruled in favor of a UBS account holder who said the Swiss bank illegally revealed account information to U.S. tax authorities, officials said. Crude oil prices hold under $76   UPI / 9:05PM NEW YORK, Jan. 22 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices continued their downward slide in tandem with equity markets in New York Friday, finishing close to $74 per barrel. Biodiversity forum calls in fashion pros   UPI / 8:54PM GENEVA, Switzerland, Jan. 22 (UPI) -- The United Nations says it has enlisted the fashion and cosmetics industries in the fight against an unprecedented loss of the world's biodiversity. BRIEF: McDonald's turns $1.2B profit in 4th quarter   AP / 5:35PM Jan. 22--McDonald's Corp. on Friday posted a better-than-expected fourth quarter with earnings and sales above Wall Street projections. American plans to lay off 175 pilots starting on February 28   AP / 2:34PM Jan. 22--American Airlines announced Friday morning that it will furlough up to 175 pilots in the next few months. Calif. fuel standards prompt Neb. fears   UPI / 2:24PM LINCOLN, Neb., Jan. 22 (UPI) -- Nebraska officials say they are concerned new fuel standards in California could negatively impact Nebraska's ethanol market. Study shows BRIC fertile for auto industry   UPI / 12:44PM BOSTON, Jan. 22 (UPI) -- A private study said 31 percent of the growth in the automobile industry through 2014 will be in Brazil, Russia, India and China, called the BRIC countries. Canadian retail sales dip in November   UPI / 11:44AM OTTAWA, Jan. 22 (UPI) -- Three months of rising Canadian retail sales volume ended in November with a 0.3 percent decline to $35.2 billion, Statistics Canada reported Friday. Bank proposals germinate quick reactions   UPI / 10:06AM NEW YORK, Jan. 22 (UPI) -- A banking executive downplayed U.S. President Barack Obama's bank-limiting proposals but investors voted quickly, knocking back bank shares on Wall Street. Treasury to tweak Make Homes Affordable   UPI / 9:24AM WASHINGTON, Jan. 22 (UPI) -- A U.S. Treasury Department official said new guidelines for the Make Homes Affordable program were in the pipeline, and would be ready by the end of January.

Thursday, January 21 Air America announces signoff   UPI / 9:05PM NEW YORK, Jan. 21 (UPI) -- Air America, the left-leaning talk radio network, will file for bankruptcy protection and cease broadcasting, Chairman Charlie Kireker said Thursday. Toyota recalls 2.3 million vehicles   AP / 7:34PM Toyota Motor Corp. said Thursday it is recalling 2.3 million vehicles to fix gas pedals that can stick, causing vehicles to accelerate. Top editors of high school newspaper quit   UPI / 6:44PM LINCOLNSHIRE, Ill., Jan. 21 (UPI) -- The top editors of a newspaper at a Chicago-area high school resigned this week to protest a policy giving administrators a say in what gets published. Tenn. wins $200 million solar plant   UPI / 6:24PM CLINTON, Tenn., Jan. 21 (UPI) -- Confluence Solar, a start-up company from Missouri, will build a $200 million manufacturing and distribution complex in Tennessee, officials announced Thursday. Crude oil prices slide Thursday   UPI / 6:14PM NEW YORK, Jan. 21 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices slid under $76 per barrel Thursday after President Barack Obama shook up equity markets with proposals to rein in banks. Zapatero pins EU growth on reduced energy   UPI / 5:54PM BRUSSELS, Jan. 21 (UPI) -- Spanish Prime Minister Jose Louis Rodriguez Zapatero said the European Union required a "fundamental" initiative to begin producing electric cars. Grain futures close higher Thursday   UPI / 5:34PM CHICAGO, Jan. 21 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed higher on the Chicago Board of Trade Thursday as the dollar index gained 0.1 percent, but equities fell hard on Wall Street. Heavy ice blunts Chinese fisheries   UPI / 4:34PM JINAN, China, Jan. 21 (UPI) -- Heavy ice off the coast of northeastern China this winter has crippled the region's fishing industry, officials said Thursday. Survey: Brits think bacon comes from sheep   UPI / 3:24PM LONDON, Jan. 21 (UPI) -- A survey of British youngsters suggests 26 percent of the country's under-16 population erroneously believe bacon comes from sheep. Acquittal in unpasteurized milk case   UPI / 3:14PM NEWMARKET, Ontario, Jan. 21 (UPI) -- A Canadian dairy farmer was acquitted Thursday of 19 charges of selling unpasteurized milk from his farm northeast of Toronto. Poll: Discount stores gaining an edge   UPI / 3:05PM ROCHESTER, N.Y., Jan. 21 (UPI) -- U.S. discount stores have beaten the mid-level and top-tier retailers at sales promotions, data from a recent survey shows. Obama seeks new bank restrictions   UPI / 1:34PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 21 (UPI) -- U.S. President Barack Obama Thursday proposed new limits on the size and scope of financial institutions to curb excessive risk-taking and protect taxpayers. With profits, Goldman Sachs adjusts pay   UPI / 12:05PM NEW YORK, Jan. 21 (UPI) -- New York financial firm Goldman Sachs says it earned $4.95 billion September through December and will set aside $16.2 billion for staff for the year. Banned companies awarded stimulus funding   UPI / 9:44AM WASHINGTON, Jan. 21 (UPI) -- Six companies deemed ineligible for U.S. stimulus funds were awarded $24.8 million targeted for disadvantaged companies, a private study showed.

Wednesday, January 20 U.S. fish importer admits tariff evasion   UPI / 10:05PM CRESSKILL, N.J., Jan. 20 (UPI) -- The chief executive of a New Jersey seafood firm pleaded guilty Wednesday to evading $60 million in U.S. tariffs by mislabeling fish imported from Vietnam. Crude oil prices drop under $78 per barrel   UPI / 6:44PM NEW YORK, Jan. 20 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices were under $78 per barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange Wednesday as milder weather replaced the deep chill, easing pressure on supplies. Grain futures down as dollar gains   UPI / 6:34PM CHICAGO, Jan. 20 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed lower on the Chicago Board of Trade as most equity markets around the globe posted losses and the dollar made strong gains Wednesday. Morgan Stanley ups pay ratio in tough year   UPI / 6:34PM NEW YORK, Jan. 20 (UPI) -- New York banking giant Morgan Stanley said Wednesday it earned $413 million in the fourth quarter and increased its ratio of compensation to employees. Bofa lost $5.2 billion in fourth quarter   UPI / 4:34PM CHARLOTTE, N.C., Jan. 20 (UPI) -- Bank of America said Wednesday losses in consumer loans and repaying U.S. bailout funds pushed fourth quarter losses in 2009 to $5.2 billion. NY Times to charge for online news   UPI / 4:14PM NEW YORK, Jan. 20 (UPI) -- The New York Times Co. said it would limit free access to its Web site in 2011 and begin charging for access after a few free visits per month. FHA to tighten loan requirements   UPI / 4:05PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 20 (UPI) -- The U.S. Federal Housing Administration said Wednesday it would tighten loan requirements to reduce risks and increase its capital reserves. Mazda unveils Nagare-styled minivan   UPI / 3:34PM TOKYO, Jan. 20 (UPI) -- Japanese automaker Mazda Motor Corp. Wednesday unveiled the Mazda5 minivan the company said would be ready for sale in Europe this fall. Israel deports U.S. journalist   UPI / 3:14PM TEL AVIV, Israel, Jan. 20 (UPI) -- A U.S. journalist working for the largest news agency in the Palestinian territories was suddenly expelled from Israel Wednesday, his employer says. Gold company price tactics panned   UPI / 1:24PM NEW YORK, Jan. 20 (UPI) -- The U.S. company Cash4Gold takes advantage of cash-strapped people by purchasing their gold items at a fraction of their worth, consumer advocates claim. Bechtel considering a return to Iraq   UPI / 1:24PM SAN FRANCISCO, Jan. 20 (UPI) -- U.S. construction giant Bechtel said it had reviewed possibilities for returning to Iraq to support the county's developing oil industry. Home starts down, permits up in December   UPI / 12:24PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 20 (UPI) -- Privately owned housing starts dropped, but permits issued rose in December from the previous month, the U.S. Commerce Department said Wednesday. Mortgage activity rises in week   UPI / 11:44AM WASHINGTON, Jan. 20 (UPI) -- The volume of applications for U.S. mortgages rose 9.1 percent in a week on a seasonally adjusted basis, an industry group said Wednesday. Second wave of pins found in groceries   UPI / 11:44AM CALGARY, Alberta, Jan. 20 (UPI) -- Police in Calgary, Alberta, were investigating Wednesday how sewing pins were inserted into bakery items and drink containers in a grocery store this week. U.S. retail sales rebound in week   UPI / 11:34AM WASHINGTON, Jan. 20 (UPI) -- Retail sales in the United States rebounded after a week of sharp declines, the International Council of Shopping Centers-USB reported Wednesday. Canadian manufacturing sales near-flat   UPI / 10:54AM OTTAWA, Jan. 20 (UPI) -- Gains in some Canadian manufacturing sales sectors were offset by losses in others for a net gain of 0.1 percent in November, Statistics Canada said Wednesday.

Tuesday, January 19 More Asian carp DNA found near Lake Michigan, officials say   AP / 5:34PM CHICAGO -- The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers says it has more evidence indicating that the dreaded Asian carp is in Lake Michigan, making the announcement hours after the U.S. Supreme Court decided not to force Illinois to do more to keep the fish out of the lake. Grain futures drop Tuesday   UPI / 5:24PM CHICAGO, Jan. 19 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed lower on the Chicago Board of Trade Tuesday as the dollar index, measuring the dollar against major currencies, rose 0.58 percent. Fed invites Congress to review AIG rescue   UPI / 3:54PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 19 (UPI) -- U.S. Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke said he would welcome a congressional review of the central bank's bailout of American International Group Inc. GM seeks new deal at former Delphi plants   UPI / 12:44PM DETROIT, Jan. 19 (UPI) -- The United Auto Workers union said General Motors Co. is seeking worker concessions at Delphi auto parts factories in Saginaw, Mich., and Lockport, N.Y. Blue-collar jobs hardest hit in recession   UPI / 11:54AM BOSTON, Jan. 19 (UPI) -- A Northeastern University Center for Labor Market Studies report says one of six U.S. blue collar-workers lost their jobs in the recession. EU construction spending drops   UPI / 11:14AM BRUSSELS, Jan. 19 (UPI) -- The European Union's statistical office Eurostat said construction spending fell 1.1 percent in the euro area in November compared with October. Personal loan defaults rise in Russia   UPI / 10:14AM MOSCOW, Jan. 19 (UPI) -- Defaulted personal loans in Russia jumped by $3 billion to $8.5 billion July through December, an Economic Development Ministry official said. Citigroup posts $1.6B loss for 2009   UPI / 9:44AM NEW YORK, Jan. 19 (UPI) -- U.S. banking giant Citigroup said Tuesday it lost $1.6 billion in 2009, largely due to a $10.1 billion fourth quarter payment to the Treasury Department. Bank robberies down despite recession   UPI / 9:44AM WASHINGTON, Jan. 19 (UPI) -- The recession has not spurred more U.S. bank robberies and such crimes plunged to their lowest levels in at least 10 years, FBI crime statistics indicate.

Monday, January 18 No decision on S. Korean bid for Thai bank   UPI / 4:44PM SEOUL, Jan. 18 (UPI) -- A Korea Development Bank spokesman said the bank had not decided whether or not to make a bid for Siam City Bank in Thailand, a deal estimated at $1 billion. Ham hits shelves with $2,940 price tag   UPI / 4:24PM LONDON, Jan. 18 (UPI) -- Officials with a London store said they are selling a specially prepared 15.43-pound ham for $2,940 -- believed to be the world's highest price tag for ham. Sen. Grassley questions AIG severance deal   UPI / 2:34PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 18 (UPI) -- Sen. Charles Grassley, R-Iowa, has questioned how the general counsel of a bailed out U.S. firm could walk away from her job with a $3.9 million severance deal. Panel: Obese kids need intensive programs   UPI / 1:05PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 18 (UPI) -- Children as young as 6 who show signs of obesity should enter intensive weight-loss programs that engage child and parent alike, a federal panel said Monday. Senate reform bill retains insurance caps   UPI / 12:54PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 18 (UPI) -- The Senate healthcare reform bill will not eliminate annual and lifetime insurance caps for many with rare conditions, U.S. health advocacy groups say. Ford reconfigures partnership in China   UPI / 12:35PM DEARBORN, Mich., Jan. 18 (UPI) -- Ford Motor Co. said it would reconfigure a three-party agreement with Japanese and Chinese partners as it adjusts to the potential sale of the Volvo brand. Bank data sharing accord in jeopardy   UPI / 12:14PM BRUSSELS, Jan. 18 (UPI) -- An interim deal allowing U.S. authorities to access data on European bank transactions requires adjustments, a European parliamentary group said. Plans for big London mosque lapse   UPI / 10:54AM LONDON, Jan. 18 (UPI) -- A British Muslim sect hoping to build Europe's biggest mosque in London is not moving forward with the plans, local officials say. States roll back red-light camera usage   UPI / 10:05AM WASHINGTON, Jan. 18 (UPI) -- Some U.S. states, responding to residents' complaints traffic cameras are being used as revenue generators, are removing red-light cameras. Lobby group to challenge bank fee   UPI / 9:14AM WASHINGTON, Jan. 18 (UPI) -- A critical bank lobbying group in Washington is preparing to fight a bank fee proposal for unfairly targeting a select group, sources close the industry said. Pirates free oil supertanker after ransom   UPI / 8:24AM LONDON, Jan. 18 (UPI) -- The oil supertanker Maran Centaurus was released by Somali pirates Monday after more than a month of captivity, its owners said.

Sunday, January 17 White House gatecrasher on talk shows   UPI / 1:14AM WASHINGTON, Jan. 17 (UPI) -- A White House state dinner gatecrasher who highlighted potential gaps in presidential security is doing the media circuit, his lawyer said.

Saturday, January 16 Nuclear gauge missing from plant   UPI / 4:14PM CORAOPOLIS, Pa., Jan. 16 (UPI) -- A nuclear density gauge missing from a Pennsylvania plant could release harmful levels of radiation if mishandled, authorities said. Yo-yos a British hit during recession   UPI / 3:44PM LONDON, Jan. 16 (UPI) -- An official with a yo-yo distribution company says sales of the simple toy went up in England when the economy went down. Mortgage modification numbers still small   UPI / 9:24AM WASHINGTON, Jan. 16 (UPI) -- Only a few U.S. homeowners enrolled in a federal foreclosure prevention program have achieved permanent loan modifications, statistics indicate. Deal reached on 'Cadillac' health plan tax   UPI / 9:24AM WASHINGTON, Jan. 16 (UPI) -- U.S. House-Senate talks on a bill to overhaul the U.S. healthcare system reached a key milestone with an agreement on "Cadillac plans," labor leaders say. U.S. newspaper group to file bankruptcy   UPI / 8:35AM DENVER, Jan. 16 (UPI) -- The publisher of the Denver Post, The Detroit News, the Salt Lake Tribune and 51 other daily newspapers says it will declare bankruptcy. Detroit Auto Show has 'can't miss' cars   UPI / 8:24AM DETROIT, Jan. 16 (UPI) -- A handful of "can't miss" cars are highlighting the 2010 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, an analyst says.

Friday, January 15 Hawaiian farmers admit visa violations   UPI / 8:44PM HONOLULU, Jan. 15 (UPI) -- Two brothers who operate a farm in Hawaii "feel very badly" about conspiring to bring 44 workers from Thailand illegally, an attorney for one of the two said. USDA undersecretary to resign   UPI / 6:05PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 15 (UPI) -- U.S. Agriculture Deputy Undersecretary Burnham Philbrook is resigning because of a family illness, the Agriculture Department said Friday. Grain futures close lower Friday   UPI / 5:54PM CHICAGO, Jan. 15 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed sharply lower on the Chicago Board of Trade Friday, following equities, which tumbled on Wall Street. Crude oil prices dip under $78   UPI / 5:54PM NEW YORK, Jan. 15 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices slid further on the New York Mercantile Exchange Friday, dipping under $78 per barrel on concerns U.S. supplies are too high. Land Rover, Jaguar, see sales bump   UPI / 5:34PM LONDON, Jan. 15 (UPI) -- Indian automaker Tata Motors said sales of two British mainstays that it purchased last year, Jaguar and Land Rover, jumped in December. Loan loss issues weigh down JPMorgan Chase despite multibillion-dollar profit   AP / 3:35PM Jan. 15--JPMorgan Chase rolled out a multibillion-dollar quarterly profit Friday, buoyed by the 10-month stock market rally and its investment and trading businesses. Developer plans homes next to new winery   UPI / 1:34PM CHICAGO, Jan. 15 (UPI) -- A developer says he is in the process of establishing a 15-acre working winery and 34 homes in the high-priced Chicago suburb of Lake Forest. British banks caught up in TARP payback   UPI / 1:24PM LONDON, Jan. 15 (UPI) -- The Royal Bank of Scotland and two other British banks appear to be caught up in the proposed bank fee announced by U.S. President Barack Obama Thursday. Procter & Gamble to test eStore   UPI / 11:44AM CINCINNATI, Jan. 15 (UPI) -- U.S. home products giant Procter & Gamble Co., said Friday it would test an online retail outlet in conjunction with e-commerce specialist PFSweb Inc. JPMorgan says pay and profits rose   UPI / 10:05AM NEW YORK, Jan. 15 (UPI) -- U.S. financial giant JPMorgan Chase said Friday it broke its revenue record in 2009, earned $11.7 billion in profits and would bump bonus checks 18 percent. New car sales slump in Canada   UPI / 10:05AM OTTAWA, Jan. 15 (UPI) -- Four months of gains in new car sales in Canada were undone by a 6 percent decline in November, Statistics Canada reported from Ottawa Friday. FDIC head: 'Shadow banks' need regulation   UPI / 2:05AM WASHINGTON, Jan. 15 (UPI) -- Regulators and the market failed to control the "shadow banking system," Sheila Bair, head of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp., said in Washington.

Thursday, January 14 Americans split on abortion coverage   UPI / 10:34PM SAN FRANCISCO, Jan. 14 (UPI) -- Americans are almost evenly split on whether abortion should be covered by any health plan receiving federal subsidies, a survey indicated. Grain futures lower Thursday   UPI / 5:34PM CHICAGO, Jan. 14 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed lower on the Chicago Board of Trade Thursday despite modest gains made in U.S. equities for the second consecutive trading session. Crude oil slides toward $79 per barrel   UPI / 5:24PM NEW YORK, Jan. 14 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices slipped lower on the New York Mercantile Exchange Thursday, heading toward $79 per barrel on a report that U.S. inventories rose last week. GM confident in Hummer sale   UPI / 4:24PM DETROIT, Jan. 14 (UPI) -- Top executives at General Motors Co. said they were confident the sale of its Hummer brand would meet with Chinese government approval and move forward. Firms plan 1,800-mile ethanol pipeline   UPI / 1:44PM TULSA, Okla., Jan. 14 (UPI) -- Two regional U.S. energy firms have announced a joint venture to build an 1,800-mile pipeline to send ethanol from the Midwest to the East Coast. Retail off 0.3 percent in December   UPI / 11:05AM WASHINGTON, Jan. 14 (UPI) -- Retail sales dropped 0.3 percent in December compared to November, the U.S. Commerce Department said Thursday. ECB leaves lending rates at 1 percent   UPI / 10:54AM FRANKFURT, Germany, Jan. 14 (UPI) -- The European Central Bank held its overnight bank-to-bank lending rate at 1 percent Thursday, citing the "temporary nature" of some economic gains. Spending flat, but not for everyone   UPI / 9:44AM PRINCETON, N.J., Jan. 14 (UPI) -- Discretionary spending among relatively well-off U.S. consumers rose sharply in December, while spending held flat among others, a private research firm said. 'Help Wanted' signs at an auto show   UPI / 8:14AM DETROIT, Jan. 14 (UPI) -- Several automakers at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit used the industry's showcase event to announce they're hiring new workers. Area foreclosure activity outpaces U.S., but rate is below national average   AP / 3:34AM Jan. 14--Foreclosure activity in the Richmond area continues to rise at a faster pace than the nation, but the rate is still below the national average, according to a report released this morning by RealtyTrac.

Wednesday, January 13 Obama bank levy coming   UPI / 8:35PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 13 (UPI) -- Major U.S. investment banks will bear the brunt of new fees President Barack Obama is expected to reveal Thursday, those familiar with the plan say. Crude oil prices drop Wednesday   UPI / 6:14PM NEW YORK, Jan. 13 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices slipped under $80 per barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange Wednesday, as equity markets in Asia looked poised for a slide. Chill in Florida could cost plenty   UPI / 6:14PM TALLAHASSEE, Fla., Jan. 13 (UPI) -- The chill that enveloped Florida in the past week could cost the state's vegetable farmers $100 million, an agricultural expert said. House health negotiator raps Senate stance   UPI / 5:34PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 13 (UPI) -- U.S. Senate negotiators are "holding a gun" on the House of Representatives in healthcare reform bill conference talks, a House member says. Grain futures mixed Wednesday   UPI / 5:14PM CHICAGO, Jan. 13 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed mixed on the Chicago Board of Trade Wednesday with markets still adjusting to a negative report on crop yields released Tuesday. Beige Book points to growing stability   UPI / 3:54PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 13 (UPI) -- Improved economic conditions have spread, but overall economic activity remains muted, the U.S. Federal Reserve's Beige Book report said Wednesday. 'American Dream' with a $28M price   UPI / 3:35PM WINNETKA, Ill., Jan. 13 (UPI) -- A 26-room mansion completed in 2008 came onto market north of Chicago with a stunning price of $28 million, real estate listings revealed. Study: High tobacco taxes not a deterrent   UPI / 3:05PM OTTAWA, Jan. 13 (UPI) -- A study published Wednesday by a Montreal business school using Canadian federal data suggested lowering tobacco taxes had little effect on consumption. U.S. mortgage activity rises in week   UPI / 12:24PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 13 (UPI) -- The volume of applications for U.S. mortgages rose 14.3 percent in a week on a seasonally adjusted basis, an industry group said Wednesday. AvtoVAZ says it will bump up production   UPI / 11:44AM MOSCOW, Jan. 13 (UPI) -- Russian car maker AvtoVAZ said it would pump up production 50 percent in 2010, despite a serious decline in sales in 2009. Canada's Suncor to ax 1,000 more jobs   UPI / 11:14AM CALGARY, Alberta, Jan. 13 (UPI) -- Suncor Energy of Calgary, Alberta, will lay off a second round of 1,000 jobs this year to increase profits and pay down debt, company officials told analysts. BOFA looking not near, but far, for CFO   UPI / 9:54AM CHARLOTTE, N.C., Jan. 13 (UPI) -- Bank of America's new Chief Executive Officer Brian Moynihan said the U.S. financial giant's next chief financial officer would come from outside the bank. 4 foreign oil workers kidnapped in Nigeria   UPI / 1:54AM PORT HARCOURT, Nigeria, Jan. 13 (UPI) -- Three British oil workers and a Colombian colleague were abducted Tuesday in the Niger Delta in an attack that killed their Nigerian driver, authorities said. Supermarket joins local dairy initiative   UPI / 1:35AM SCARBOROUGH, Maine, Jan. 13 (UPI) -- Hannaford Bros. Co., based in Maine, has become the first U.S. supermarket chain to join a program aimed at protecting New England dairy farms, officials said.

Tuesday, January 12 Bank of China triggers oil price drop   UPI / 5:35PM NEW YORK, Jan. 12 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices slipped to an even $80 per barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange Tuesday, on concerns about slower growth in China. Grain futures sharply lower on Tuesday   UPI / 5:24PM CHICAGO, N.Y., Jan. 12 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed sharply lower on the Chicago Board of Trade Tuesday after government reports indicated yields higher than expected. FDIC explores risk-related fee policy   UPI / 4:35PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 12 (UPI) -- The U.S. Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. said it would seek public input on a plan to have bank fees reflect risk-taking built into bank pay policies. Bookseller to grow online textbook rentals   UPI / 2:34PM NEW YORK, Jan. 12 (UPI) -- U.S. bookseller Barnes & Noble said Tuesday it would expand its multi-channel textbook rental program that could save U.S. college students a bundle on books. Kraft, Cadbury trade barbs   AP / 1:35PM U.S. food giant Kraft and British chocolate maker Cadbury traded barbs Tuesday in the war for shareholder support with a hostile takeover in the balance. Chinese BYD to try U.S. market   UPI / 1:24PM DETROIT, Jan. 12 (UPI) -- Chinese automaker BYD Auto Inc. said it would start selling a plug-in sedan in the United States before the end of the year. Parents think bank exec is overpaid   UPI / 12:34PM LONDON, Jan. 12 (UPI) -- The chief executive officer of the Royal Bank of Scotland said Tuesday in a government hearing that his parents thought he was paid too much. Retail sales drop sharply in week   UPI / 11:24AM WASHINGTON, Jan. 12 (UPI) -- Retail sales in the United States fell sharply in the week ending Jan. 9, the International Council of Shopping Centers-USB reported Tuesday. Judge keeps Bank of America case narrow   UPI / 9:34AM NEW YORK, Jan. 12 (UPI) -- A federal judge in New York has rejected a U.S. regulator's attempt to broaden its case against Bank of America for allegedly misleading shareholders. Bolivar devaluation prompts shopper rush   UPI / 9:34AM CARACAS, Venezuela, Jan. 12 (UPI) -- Venezuelans have thronged into stores to buy all kinds of imported goods before the nation's currency, the bolivar, is devalued, witnesses said. Obama considers fee for large banks   UPI / 9:04AM WASHINGTON, Jan. 12 (UPI) -- Administration officials said President Barack Obama is considering a fee for large U.S. banks to make up for losses in the $700 billion bank bailout program. Why some jobs are gone, gone, gone   UPI / 8:34AM NEW YORK, Jan. 12 (UPI) -- The U.S. labor market is losing jobs it may have lost with or without a recession, which abruptly accelerated some long established trends, economists said. Fed posts record profit in '09   UPI / 12:54AM WASHINGTON, Jan. 12 (UPI) -- The U.S. Federal Reserve will return an estimated $45 billion to the U.S. Treasury after posting record profits in 2009, government documents indicate.

Monday, January 11 SEC to expand Bank of America charges   AP / 6:34PM The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission said it is seeking to add a new charge in its complaint against Bank of America for misleading shareholders. SEC to expand Bank of America charges   UPI / 6:14PM NEW YORK, Jan. 11 (UPI) -- The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission said it is seeking to add a new charge in its complaint against Bank of America for misleading shareholders. Crude oil prices slide Monday   UPI / 5:54PM NEW YORK, Jan. 11 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices slid Monday on the New York Mercantile Exchange, dropping below $83 per barrel after peaking earlier at a 15-month high. Grains mixed in Chicago Monday   UPI / 5:44PM CHICAGO, Jan. 11 (UPI) -- Grain futures were mixed on the Chicago Board of Trade Monday as oil prices settled down slightly from a 15-month high. Citigroup names head of consumer banking   UPI / 4:34PM NEW YORK, Jan. 11 (UPI) -- U.S. banking corporation Citigroup Monday appointed Manuel Medina-Mora head of consumer banking for the Americans and chairman of the Global Consumer Council. GM CEO optimistic, Chrysler CEO cautious   UPI / 4:14PM DETROIT, Jan. 11 (UPI) -- General Motors Co. Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Ed Whitacre Jr. Monday said U.S. taxpayers would realize "a lot of money" from their investment in GM. New York requests bonus pay disclosures   UPI / 2:54PM ALBANY, N.Y., Jan. 11 (UPI) -- The New York attorney general's office said it requested pay information from eight of the nation's big banks in an ongoing inquiry into federal bailout funds. U.S. Smart car sales floundering   UPI / 2:24PM BLOOMFIELD HILLS, Mich., Jan. 11 (UPI) -- German automaker Daimler's Smart car is in danger of being eclipsed by the BMW Mini if Daimler cannot find a partner to help, an auto industry analyst said. Ford tags Michigan for hybrid and plug-in   UPI / 12:54PM DETROIT, Jan. 11 (UPI) -- Ford Motor Co. said Monday it would assign production of a new hybrid and an electric car to the Michigan assembly plant, where the Ford Focus is built. Cod fishery seeks renewable approval   UPI / 12:44PM ANCHORAGE, Alaska, Jan. 11 (UPI) -- Alaska's multimillion-dollar cod industry is on track to be certified as a sustainable fishery, a move that should increase sales, industry officials said. Ford takes car and truck honors in Detroit   UPI / 11:44AM DETROIT, Jan. 11 (UPI) -- U.S. auto giant Ford Motor Co. grabbed two coveted first place awards at the North American International Auto show: Car of the Year and Truck of the Year. Goldman Sachs mulls another pay gesture   UPI / 9:14AM NEW YORK, Jan. 11 (UPI) -- New York financial giant Goldman Sachs is considering a plan to force its employees to give money to charities, a source close to the discussions said. Pope urges respect for migrant workers   UPI / 7:54AM ROSARNO, Italy, Jan. 11 (UPI) -- Pope Benedict XVI called on Italians to respect the rights of immigrants in the wake of violence against African farmworkers in which 70 people were injured.

Sunday, January 10 Survey: 'Gen Y' seeks car affordability   UPI / 7:05PM DETROIT, Jan. 10 (UPI) -- Gas mileage and vehicle affordability have emerged as the most important considerations for young "Generation Y" car buyers, a consumer survey indicates. BRIEF: Aabar to invest in Arabtec Holding   AP / 6:34PM Jan. 10--Abu Dhabi's Aabar Investments PJSC ("Aabar") and Dubai's Arabtec Holdings PJSC ("Arabtec") have agreed for Aabar to acquire 70% of the shares (post&226;&128;&144;conversion) in Arabtec Holdings PJSC ("Arabtec") by way of a convertible mandatory bond for a fixed purchase price of Dh2.3 per share, accordingly, the share capital will be increased from Dh1.196,000,000 to Dh3,986,666,667 (representing conversion of the mandatory bond so that Aabar investments PJSC will own 2,790,666,667 shares or 70% of Arabtec Holding PJSC total shares after conversion of the bond) for a total investment consideration of AED 6,418,533,333. Retailer fights to keep basement from city   UPI / 5:44PM SAN FRANCISCO, Jan. 10 (UPI) -- An upscale San Francisco department store is fighting the city's efforts to reclaim part of its basement for a proposed downtown subway, authorities said. Schwarzenegger: Reform shortchanges Calif.   UPI / 3:54PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 10 (UPI) -- Federal healthcare reform measures are shortchanging California, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger said. Iran's Revolutionary Guard gains power   UPI / 3:34PM TEHRAN, Jan. 10 (UPI) -- The transfer of wealth, power and influence to Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps is accelerating in the wake of last year's mass demonstrations, analysts say. Fourth body found in building collapse   UPI / 2:44PM TBILISI, Georgia, Jan. 10 (UPI) -- A fourth body has been found in the rubble of a collapsed building in the Georgian capital of Tblisi, officials said Sunday. Banks prepare to hand out big bonuses   UPI / 12:44PM NEW YORK, Jan. 10 (UPI) -- Resurgent U.S. banks preparing to hand out billions of dollars in bonuses are likely to draw harsh criticism, analysts say. Carmakers show their wares in Detroit   UPI / 2:14AM DETROIT, Jan. 10 (UPI) -- The chairman of this year's Detroit Auto Show promises an event that will show "new hope and optimism" for the beleaguered U.S. car industry. 11 fishermen missing after collision   UPI / 12:34AM PUTIAN, China, Jan. 10 (UPI) -- One fisherman was dead and 11 more missing after a freighter rammed a fishing boat Saturday afternoon off Fujian Province in China.

Saturday, January 9 12 dead in mine fire in China   UPI / 11:54PM XINYU, China, Jan. 9 (UPI) -- The bodies of 12 miners who died in a mine fire in eastern China were brought up from underground Saturday, officials said. 300 Africans removed from Calabrian town   UPI / 11:04PM ROSARNO, Italy, Jan. 9 (UPI) -- Police removed 300 African farm laborers Saturday from a small town in southern Italy, a day after immigrants held a violent protest against attacks. NYC Christmas tree turning into housing   UPI / 6:14PM NEW YORK, Jan. 9 (UPI) -- A 70-year-old Norway spruce, this year's Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center in New York, is to return to Connecticut as lumber for affordable homes. U.N. condemns Bulgarian reporter's killing   UPI / 12:54PM SOFIA, Bulgaria, Jan. 9 (UPI) -- A senior U.N. official has urged the Bulgarian government to find the killers of Boris Tsankov, who was shot dead on a busy Sofia street. Wash. bank, Calif. credit union shuttered   UPI / 11:05AM WASHINGTON, Jan. 9 (UPI) -- A Washington state bank and a California credit union have become the first two financial institution failures of the year, officials say. Obama: Reform 'on the verge of passing'   UPI / 6:14AM WASHINGTON, Jan. 9 (UPI) -- President Barack Obama Saturday said U.S. health insurance reform is "on the verge of passing."

Friday, January 8 EC to aid drought-stricken Guatemala   UPI / 8:14PM BRUSSELS, Jan. 8 (UPI) -- A drought-stricken section of Guatemala will receive almost $2 million in emergency humanitarian aid from the European Commission, officials say. Crude oil prices close to $83 per barrel   UPI / 6:05PM NEW YORK, Jan. 8 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices closed in on $83 per barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange Friday as a new trend above $80 has settled in with the winter cold front. Sears online boasts 10 million products   UPI / 6:05PM CHICAGO, Jan. 8 (UPI) -- U.S. retail giant Sears Holdings Corp. said Friday its Marketplace at Sears.com has officially gone online, offering 10 million products. Grains close mixed Friday   UPI / 5:34PM CHICAGO, Jan. 8 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed mixed on the Chicago Board of Trade Friday, as cold weather continued to slow shipping and equities rose modestly in New York. Arrest made in Canadian pipeline bombings   UPI / 4:24PM HYTHE, Alberta, Jan. 8 (UPI) -- A man suspected in a series of gas pipeline bombings was arrested in western Alberta Friday by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, his lawyer said. Panel calls on top bankers to testify   UPI / 4:14PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 8 (UPI) -- A Congressional panel assembled to find the causes of the financial meltdown has scheduled four top U.S. bankers to give testimony next week. EIB loans SATA Group $53 million   UPI / 2:54PM LUXEMBOURG, Jan. 8 (UPI) -- The European Investment Bank said Friday it would loan SATA Air Acores airline $53 million to upgrade its fleet with four turboprop aircraft. Canada's Canwest in bankruptcy protection   UPI / 1:14PM WINNIPEG, Manitoba, Jan. 8 (UPI) -- Canada's largest media group, Canwest Global Communications, filed for bankruptcy protection Friday and put out a call for potential buyers. Unemployment steady with November revised   UPI / 12:44PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 8 (UPI) -- The U.S. unemployment rate held steady at 10 percent in December, a better result than many economists expected, the Department of Labor said Friday. British businesses' gas supply curtailed   UPI / 12:24PM LONDON, Jan. 8 (UPI) -- About 100 British businesses experienced gas rationing as the government tried to protect domestic power supplies because of an extended bout of cold weather. Wal-Mart ends free bags at 3 Calif. stores   UPI / 2:05AM SACRAMENTO, Jan. 8 (UPI) -- Wal-Mart, which is engaged in a massive effort to reduce its environmental footprint, has begun charging for shopping bags at three stores in California.

Thursday, January 7 USDA seizes food from Nashville warehouse   UPI / 11:54PM NASHVILLE, Jan. 7 (UPI) -- Federal agents raided a Nashville food distributor's warehouse, saying food products were contaminated by insects, rodents and other sanitation hazards. Health insurers balk at health bill taxes   UPI / 6:05PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 7 (UPI) -- An insurance industry lobbyist said the nation's new health plan would cost U.S. insurance firms $225 billion over the next ten years. Grains fall with China's policy shift   UPI / 5:44PM CHICAGO, Jan. 7 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed lower on the Chicago Board of Trade Friday after the Peoples Bank of China said it would raise interest rates 0.05 percent. Boeing's production increases even as sales crater   AP / 5:34PM SEATTLE -- Boeing steadily increased its production pace through 2009 and delivered a total of 481 airplanes, but the recession and accompanying airline crisis brought a collapse in new sales. Baltimore versus Wells Fargo dismissed   UPI / 3:24PM BALTIMORE, Jan. 7 (UPI) -- A federal judge in Baltimore says it was "implausible" Wells Fargo conducted racist lending policies that caused an expensive foreclosure epidemic. Jobless claims rise slightly   UPI / 10:24AM WASHINGTON, Jan. 7 (UPI) -- First-time claims for U.S. unemployment insurance benefits rose by 1,000 in the week ending Jan. 2, the U.S. Department of Labor said Thursday. British home prices show 12-month rise   UPI / 9:05AM LONDON, Jan. 7 (UPI) -- The Halifax Bank of Scotland said home prices in Britain in December rose over the past 12 months, the first annual increase in nearly two years. Rosy forecast for Canadian real estate   UPI / 8:54AM TORONTO, Jan. 7 (UPI) -- Residential real estate sales in Canada will be robust for the next six months because of low interest rates, a national franchiser forecast Thursday. BOE keeps 0.5 percent lending rate   UPI / 8:24AM LONDON, Jan. 7 (UPI) -- The Bank of England Thursday said its policymakers left bank-to-bank lending rates at 0.5 percent for the 10th consecutive month.

Wednesday, January 6 LA County seeks Smith 'in a haystack'   UPI / 7:44PM LOS ANGELES, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- Tax collectors in Los Angeles County are looking for a certain D. Smith who has failed to pay taxes on a vacant lot since 1980. PETA offers freezer if jail goes vegan   UPI / 7:14PM MOUNT CLEMENS, Mich., Jan. 6 (UPI) -- An animal rights group has pledged to pay for a new freezer at a Michigan jail if the sheriff promises to put the inmates on a vegan diet for one year. GM CEO predicts return to profit by year's end   AP / 6:34PM DETROIT -- General Motors Chairman and CEO Ed Whitacre predicted Wednesday that the Detroit automaker will return to profitability in 2010. Crude oil supplies rise in week   UPI / 6:34PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- U.S. crude oil inventories rose by 1.3 million barrels in the week ending Jan. 1, the U.S. Energy Information Administration said Wednesday. Grain futures close mixed Wednesday   UPI / 5:54PM CHICAGO, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- Wheat prices jumped on the Chicago Board of Trade Wednesday as concerns of winter kill in spring wheat fields fueled supply concerns. Fed minutes show split on policies   UPI / 4:24PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- Meeting minutes of the U.S. Federal Reserve's Open Market Committee revealed divergent views of the pace of the economic recovery. Obama to miss Detroit auto show   UPI / 3:44PM DETROIT, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- VIPs visiting the North American International Auto Show in Detroit Jan. 11-24 will not include President Barack Obama, an administration official said. In Europe, $43B for renewable energy   UPI / 3:14PM BRUSSELS, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- Germany's minister for economy and technology said a $43 billion project linking nine countries to renewable energy was "crucial" to Europe's energy goals. Abbas: Will talk after settlement freeze   UPI / 2:14PM SHARM EL-SHEIK, Egypt, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas says he's open to peace negotiations with Israel, but only after Jewish settlement building is halted. Court to rule on non-Muslim use of 'Allah'   UPI / 11:34AM KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- The Malaysian High Court agreed Wednesday to stay lower court rulings on the use of "Allah" by a Catholic newspaper in a non-Muslim context. Tainted milk case not disclosed for long   UPI / 7:44AM SHANGHAI, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- Tainted milk products sold by Shanghai Panda Dairy were discovered a year ago but it was not disclosed until recently, China Daily reported. U.S. auto sales skid to worst in 30 years: December uptick lifts industry hopes   AP / 7:35AM Jan. 6--The numbers quickly show how bleak 2009 was for U.S. auto sales -- every big automaker except one had a drop of nearly 20 percent or more from 2008. The figures were the worst in 30 years for the industry as a whole. Apartment fire kills nine in China   UPI / 12:44AM BEIJING, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- A fire in an apartment building Wednesday in Wenzhou city in China's eastern Zhejiang province killed at least nine people, authorities said.

Tuesday, January 5 Iceland to hold vote on bank bailout   UPI / 10:24PM REYKJAVIK, Iceland, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- Iceland will hold a referendum on repaying Dutch and British depositors in its failed banks, officials said Tuesday. Grain futures mixed Tuesday   UPI / 7:24PM CHICAGO, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- Grain futures finished mixed on the Chicago Board of Trade Tuesday as winter weather kept oil prices high and the dollar index ended the day dead even. Auto sales showed promise in December   UPI / 6:54PM DETROIT, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- Ford Motor Co, Subaru of America Inc. and Hyundai said sales soared in December, compared to December 2008, when U.S. sales were in a serious slump. Raising fees works for Visa   UPI / 6:44PM NEW YORK, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- U.S. credit card company Visa has gained market share through an upside down system of raising fees, a former chief executive officer said. Ram on its own confuses auto analysts   UPI / 5:54PM AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Jan. 5 (UPI) -- Automobile market analysts said it was hard to find the logic in U.S. automaker Chrysler Group's plan to separate Dodge and Ram products. Medicare fraud suspect held without bond   UPI / 2:24PM MIAMI, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- A Miami man who allegedly bought a fleet of luxury cars with the proceeds of a Medicare fraud scheme has been denied bail, authorities say. Factory orders beat expectations   UPI / 11:54AM WASHINGTON, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- New orders for manufactured U.S. goods, up for seven of the past eight months, rose 1.1 percent in November, the U.S. Census Bureau reported Tuesday. Fire traps 27 miners in China   UPI / 9:54AM BEIJING, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- A coal mine fire in China's Hunan province has trapped 27 miners, a local government official said Tuesday. Preparers face tough IRS rules   AP / 5:34AM Jan. 5--In an effort to curb mistakes in income tax returns and assure paid preparers are qualified, the Internal Revenue Service next year will begin enforcing new regulations.

Monday, January 4 Coastal erosion threatens apartment house   UPI / 6:54PM OAKLAND, Calif., Jan. 4 (UPI) -- Residents of an apartment complex on a California cliff side say they watched nervously Monday as workers tried to save the building from crashing onto a beach. Novartis to purchase 52 percent of Alcon   AP / 5:34PM Swiss pharmaceutical giant Novartis International said Monday it would exercise an option to buy 52 percent of eye care company Alcon for $28.1 billion. Grain futures mixed Monday   UPI / 5:34PM CHICAGO, Jan. 4 (UPI) -- Grain futures traded mixed on the Chicago Board of Trade Monday, as oil prices spiked and the dollar lost ground against the euro and the yen. Crude oil spikes above $81 per barrel   UPI / 5:34PM NEW YORK, Jan. 4 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices jumped higher Monday morning, topping $81 per barrel as winter settled in throughout much of the United States. DNA shows many pricey foods fake   UPI / 5:24PM NEW YORK, Jan. 4 (UPI) -- Two New York City high school students using high-tech DNA analysis techniques found rampant consumer fraud in the labeling of pricey food. New BOFA CEO calls for balance   UPI / 5:24PM CHARLOTTE, N.C., Jan. 4 (UPI) -- The new chief executive officer of Bank of America drew his line in the public sand Monday, stating growth in U.S. banking helped topple financial stability. Thousands flock to Dubai tower opening   UPI / 4:54PM DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Jan. 4 (UPI) -- The world's tallest building made its debut Monday in the United Arab Emirates amid an economic recession largely caused by a real estate bust. France's Total enters Barnett Shale gas play   AP / 2:34PM Jan. 4--French energy giant Total will enter Texas' Barnett Shale natural gas field under a $2.25 billion joint venture with Oklahoma's Chesapeake Energy Corp., the companies announced this morning. Auto suppliers facing tough year   UPI / 12:54PM DETROIT, Jan. 4 (UPI) -- Slower production and tighter financing are lined up to create a tough year for the U.S. automobile supply industry, a trade group official said. Inquiry sought in Canada scaffold accident   UPI / 11:44AM TORONTO, Jan. 4 (UPI) -- The widow of one of the workers killed in a Toronto Christmas Eve scaffolding accident says she wants a full inquiry. Manufacturing grows five months in a row   UPI / 11:44AM TEMPE, Ariz., Jan. 4 (UPI) -- Nine of 18 manufacturing groups reported business growth in December, the Institute for Supply Management said Monday. Construction outlays down in November   UPI / 11:34AM WASHINGTON, Jan. 4 (UPI) -- Spending on private and public construction in the United States turned lower in November compared with October, the U.S. Commerce Department said Monday. Short 2 cents, couple finds COBRA's teeth   UPI / 11:14AM MIRAMAR, Fla., Jan. 4 (UPI) -- For the lack of 2 cents in a payment, a couple in Florida said their COBRA insurance coverage was canceled while the wife was pregnant. Blast flattens apartment building   UPI / 11:04AM SHREWSBURY, England, Jan. 4 (UPI) -- A dozen people were injured during a weekend blast that destroyed an apartment house in Shrewsbury, England, British emergency officials said. Czech factory blast kills 1, injures 3   UPI / 10:14AM RUDNIK, Czech Republic, Jan. 4 (UPI) -- A boiler explosion at a Czech Republic auto parts factory has left one person dead and three seriously injured, officials said Monday. Cold wave hits vast sections of China   UPI / 2:05AM BEIJING, Jan. 4 (UPI) -- Chinese weather forecasters extended cold alert warnings until Tuesday for many provinces blanketed by heavy snow and gripped by icy conditions. 6 million list food stamps as only income   UPI / 1:14AM WASHINGTON, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- About 6 million U.S. residents list government-issued food stamps as their only income, statistics indicate. PETA tries to erect anti-KFC statue   UPI / 12:24AM LOUISVILLE, Ky., Jan. 4 (UPI) -- An animal activist group said the city of Louisville, Ky., is keeping it from displaying a 5 1/2-foot statue of a bloodied chicken on crutches.

Sunday, January 3 World's tallest building set to open   UPI / 5:54PM DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- Dubai in the United Arab Emirates is going ahead with plans to open the world's tallest building in the midst of a recession and property crash, officials said. Ill. newspaper suspends Web comments   UPI / 5:14PM BLOOMINGTON, Ill., Jan. 3 (UPI) -- The editor of The Pantagraph, a daily newspaper in Bloomington, Ill., says he is suspending readers' Web site comments on local stories. 7 workers killed in China airport accident   UPI / 3:44PM KUNMING, China, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- Seven construction workers were killed Sunday when an overpass collapsed in an airport in China's Yunnan Province, officials said. Fashion star Vuitton faces hunting scandal   UPI / 12:05PM PARIS, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- Fashion star Patrick-Louis Vuitton says members of his hunting party did not chase a pack of stags into a private lake in France to kill the animals.

Saturday, January 2 Chinese banks pick up lending slack   UPI / 1:54PM BEIJING, Jan. 2 (UPI) -- Chinese banks have been picking up the worldwide lending slack, loaning three times more last year than in 2008, statistics indicate. Experts critical of foreclosure program   UPI / 10:24AM WASHINGTON, Jan. 2 (UPI) -- An Obama administration program meant to help keep struggling homeowners in their homes has been doing more harm than good, some U.S. experts say.

Friday, January 1 Boy runs away with 42-year-old 'soulmate'   UPI / 8:24PM BARRIE, Ontario, Jan. 1 (UPI) -- A 16-year-old Ontario, Canada, boy returned home after two days allegedly spent with a 42-year-old fellow online gamer he called his "soulmate," police said. Canada GM investment saves 9k jobs   UPI / 7:35PM DET, Mich., Jan. 1 (UPI) -- Canada's investment in U.S. automaker General Motors has saved more than 9,000 jobs in Ontario, provincial officials said. Burj Dubai to open with hype and security   UPI / 2:54PM DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Jan. 1 (UPI) -- The Mideast's Burj Dubai officially opens Monday with a mix of pop culture pizazz and security appropriate to 21st century twin realities of glamour and threat. Chocolate eggs filling British stores   UPI / 2:05PM LONDON, Jan. 1 (UPI) -- The appearance of chocolate eggs on British supermarket shelves so soon after Christmas and three-plus months before Easter is wrong, critics say. 6 fishermen missing after boat sinks   UPI / 1:04PM HSINCHU, Taiwan, Jan. 1 (UPI) -- Six fishermen from mainland China were missing Friday, two days after their boat sank off Taiwan, authorities said. Israeli-Palestinian talks could resume   UPI / 11:05AM JERUSALEM, Jan. 1 (UPI) -- Israeli officials said Friday peace negotiations with Palestinian leaders could resume within a month, the result of U.S. and Egyptian efforts. Businesses warned about online banking   UPI / 2:14AM WASHINGTON, Jan. 1 (UPI) -- The FBI and the American Bankers Association have issued a warning to small business owners to use a separate computer for online banking.

Thursday, December 31 Chub now rare in Great Lakes   UPI / 9:54PM MILWAUKEE, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Chub, a small fish found only in the Great Lakes, has become a rare find in stores in the U.S. Midwest thanks to zebra mussels and other invasive species. 4 fishermen rescued off British islands   UPI / 8:14PM HUGH TOWN, England, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Four fishermen were plucked to safety Thursday after their trawler caught fire off Britain's Isles of Scilly, officials said. Teacher allegedly robbed 2 banks   UPI / 8:05PM CONCORD, Mass., Dec. 31 (UPI) -- A teacher at a New Hampshire middle school has been charged with robbing two banks in Massachusetts. Crude oil heads toward $80 per barrel   UPI / 6:05PM NEW YORK, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices rose close to $80 per barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange Thursday, the day after a report showed U.S. stockpiles declining. Grain futures close mixed Thursday   UPI / 5:44PM CHICAGO, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed mixed on the Chicago Board of Trade Thursday, closing out the year with a light trading day. Wells Fargo adjusts pay for top four execs   UPI / 5:05PM SAN FRANCISCO, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- U.S. bank Wells Fargo said Thursday its top four executives would receive only restricted stock for their bonus pay this year to encourage job retention. Race horse trainer arrested in Ohio   UPI / 3:34PM BATAVIA, Ohio, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- A race horse trainer with ties to horse deaths at a farm in Clermont County, Ohio, has been arrested for an alleged probation violation, authorities say. FAA approves single carrier status for Delta, NWA   AP / 12:34PM Dec. 31--The Federal Aviation Administration today gave Delta Air Lines and Northwest Airlines clearance to fly as a single carrier -- a milestone that moves their consolidation closer to completion. Treasury loans additional $3.8B to GMAC   UPI / 9:24AM WASHINGTON, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- The U.S. Treasury Department announced a new loan to struggling automotive financial firm GMAC, bringing federal ownership of the company to 56 percent.

Wednesday, December 30 Wis. firefighter killed, 4 hurt in blast   UPI / 6:54PM ST. ANNA, Wis., Dec. 30 (UPI) -- A Wisconsin firefighter was killed and four others hurt when an explosion rocked a foundry, officials said Wednesday. Grain futures mixed Wednesday   UPI / 5:54PM CHICAGO, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- Grain futures were mixed on the Chicago Board of Trade Wednesday with the dollar index 0.11 percent higher. Crude oil prices head higher   UPI / 5:44PM NEW YORK, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices topped $79 per barrel Wednesday, despite worries the United States' economic recovery could stall. U.S. oil supplies down in week   UPI / 5:24PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- U.S. crude oil inventories dropped by 1.5 million barrels in the week ending Dec. 25, the U.S. Energy Information Administration said Wednesday. GM restores merit pay for some executives   UPI / 2:54PM DETROIT, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- General Motors Co. said it would reinstate merit pay for salaried employees except for top executives whose salary is set by the U.S. Treasury Department. British manufacturers bringing work home   UPI / 1:44PM LONDON, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- British manufacturers are retreating from a trend of foreign outsourcing by bringing production back home to improve quality, private researchers said. Britain planning new high-speed rail link   UPI / 1:34PM LONDON, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- British transportation officials say they are proposing a new high-speed rail link between London and the West Midlands. Firm investigating artifacts at Ohio sites   UPI / 1:05PM MIDDLETOWN, Ohio, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- An Ohio Historical Society spokesman said an archaeological firm is investigating American Indian artifacts found at sites tabbed for a coke oven facility. Florida probes Thoroughbred slaughterhouse   UPI / 1:05PM MIAMI, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- Florida authorities say they are investigating an alleged slaughterhouse from which an offspring of famed racehorse Secretariat was rescued Christmas Day. Old e-mails show AIG's tension rising   UPI / 11:24AM NEW YORK, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- In-house e-mails at U.S. insurance giant American International Group show rising tension over the derivatives market that began to unravel in 2007.

Tuesday, December 29 Crude oil prices high and steady   AP / 6:34PM Crude oil prices remained close to $79 per barrel Tuesday with winter settled in and trading light between major holidays. Grain futures mixed Tuesday   UPI / 6:14PM CHICAGO, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed mixed on the Chicago Board of Trade Tuesday as the dollar gained against the euro and the yen. FDIC busy in November   UPI / 4:24PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. revealed that it issued 34 cease and desist orders in November to U.S. banks out of 51 enforcement actions. Morgan Stanley to alter bonus pay policy   UPI / 3:24PM NEW YORK, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- New York investment bank Morgan Stanley is considering changes to its bonus pay policy in the wake of federal bailouts, sources close to the discussions said. Russia, Ukraine, again worry Europe on oil   UPI / 2:54PM BRUSSELS, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- Authorities in Europe have confirmed a dispute between Russia and Ukraine may again disrupt energy supplies to Europe at the turn of the new year. Last minute sales boosted retail's week   UPI / 12:44PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- Retail sales in the United States rose 2.3 percent from a year ago in the week ending Dec. 26, the International Council of Shopping Centers-USB reported. U.S. home prices 'flat' in October   UPI / 11:44AM WASHINGTON, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- The S&P/Case-Shiller price index said U.S. home prices rose 0.4 percent in October from September, but the increase was not impressive. Lobby groups tackle reform head on   UPI / 8:14AM WASHINGTON, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- President Barack Obama's attempt to overhaul the U.S. financial service sector is cause for all-out resistance, bank lobbying groups said. 40 million farmers live below poverty line   UPI / 1:14AM BEIJING, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- China has the world's third largest economy but a report says 40 million of its farmers live in poverty, making less than $175 annually. Mine accidents kill 17 in China   UPI / 12:54AM BEIJING, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- Two coal mine accidents Sunday and Monday in China killed at least 17 miners, authorities said.

Monday, December 28 Grain futures close higher Monday   UPI / 5:54PM CHICAGO, Dec. 28 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed higher on the Chicago Board of Trade Monday as the dollar index held close to steady, rising 0.01 percent. Hundreds of carts taken from toy shop   UPI / 3:14PM NEW YORK, Dec. 28 (UPI) -- Police said a series of shopping cart thefts beginning the day after Thanksgiving ended with a New York Toys 'R' Us being left without a single shopping cart. Ford beefs up the Mustang GT   UPI / 2:14PM DEARBORN, Mich., Dec. 28 (UPI) -- U.S. automaker Ford Motor Co. said Monday its 2011 Mustang GT would include a competitive 5.0 liter, 412 horsepower V8 engine. Navajo Nation to build wind farm in Ariz.   UPI / 1:35PM FLAGSTAFF, Ariz., Dec. 28 (UPI) -- The Navajo Nation says it will build a $200 million wind farm near Flagstaff, Ariz., in conjunction with Foresight Wind Energy and Edison Mission Energy. Experts split on British housing market   UPI / 12:54PM LONDON, Dec. 28 (UPI) -- Divided property experts expect home prices in Britain to rise as much as 4 percent or fall as much as 7 percent in 2010. Discount stores still in the driver's seat   UPI / 12:34PM NEW YORK, Dec. 28 (UPI) -- Retail experts have picked discount retail chains and online stores as businesses poised to increase their share of the U.S. market. Retail data show mild improvement   UPI / 12:05PM NEW YORK, Dec. 28 (UPI) -- Early data indicate the 2009 holiday shopping season was a tad better than last year's for U.S. retail stores, private researchers said. Stimulus funds expand concept of rural   UPI / 11:44AM WASHINGTON, Dec. 28 (UPI) -- An analysis of the $787 billion stimulus bill shows nearly a quarter of the funding earmarked for rural America has gone to metropolitan areas. Wen says stimulus revived China's economy   UPI / 8:54AM BEIJING, Dec. 28 (UPI) -- Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao said Sunday last year's economic stimulus measures had helped revive the economy. Jerusalem approves Arab housing units   UPI / 8:14AM JERUSALEM, Dec. 28 (UPI) -- Israel has approved the construction of 500 housing units in Jerusalem's Silwan neighborhood for both Arab and Jewish residents, officials said. Insurers eye costs of healthcare measure   UPI / 7:54AM WASHINGTON, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- Insurance companies studying the fine print of the U.S. Senate healthcare measure worry the bill would reduce their profits, they say.

Sunday, December 27 U.S. said 'on verge' of healthcare reforms   UPI / 3:54PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- Americans are "on the verge" of achieving historic U.S. healthcare industry reforms, a White House spokesman said Sunday. High values may prompt Oregon gold rush   UPI / 3:14PM PORTLAND, Ore., Dec. 27 (UPI) -- Eastern Oregon could be the focus of a new gold rush in 2010 due to the rising value of gold, some veteran miners in the state suggest. Trawler survives fire, headed home   UPI / 2:34PM NAIN, Newfoundland, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- The Maritime Rescue Center in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, said a shrimp trawler is returning to its Canadian home after barely surviving a fire. Pipeline concerns prompted by oil decline   UPI / 12:34PM ANCHORAGE, Alaska, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- A trans-Alaska pipeline that transports oil from Alaska's North Slope is at risk of future problems due to a declining flow of oil, executives say.

Saturday, December 26 Newspaper honors slain Iranian protester   UPI / 4:54PM LONDON, Dec. 26 (UPI) -- The Times of London said Saturday it has named slain Iranian protester Neda Soltan the newspaper's person of the year for 2009. Justice sought for slain journalist   UPI / 4:44PM CHETUMAL, Mexico, Dec. 26 (UPI) -- The Committee to Protect Journalists said authorities in Mexico must bring the individual responsible for the death of a slain journalist to justice. New sheen delays effort to get fuel off crippled tug: PATHFINDER: Discovery of leak halts process; fishing boats try to absorb sheen.   AP / 11:34AM Dec. 26--As a new, mile-long sheen of diesel fuel drifted away from the disabled tugboat Pathfinder on Friday, salvage crews worked into the night to get fuel transferred from two tanks slashed open when the vessel ran aground on notorious Bligh Reef on Wednesday night. At least 45 dead in Indian bridge collapse   UPI / 8:14AM KOTA, India, Dec. 26 (UPI) -- A bridge collapse in the northern Indian industrial city of Kota has killed at least 45 people, authorities said Saturday.

Friday, December 25 Heathcare probable but has questions   UPI / 9:14AM WASHINGTON, Dec. 25 (UPI) -- While U.S. lawmakers appear close to extending coverage to millions of Americans with no health insurance, observers say there are still many questions.

Thursday, December 24 Treasury pledges aid to Fannie and Freddie   UPI / 11:34PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- The U.S. Treasury Department announced Thursday it will give Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac as much support as they need to remain solvent. Hackers wreak huge holiday-time fraud   UPI / 7:44PM ANCHORAGE, Alaska, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- Computer hackers obtained information belonging to an Anchorage, Alaska, retailer that pertained to between 150 and 1,000 credit card users, police said. 1 scalloper rescued, 2 missing   UPI / 6:34PM POINT PLEASANT BEACH, N.J., Dec. 24 (UPI) -- The Coast Guard searched the Atlantic Ocean off New Jersey on Thursday for two missing scallop fishermen whose boat sank 25 miles out to sea. Durable good orders up slightly   UPI / 11:44AM WASHINGTON, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- U.S. durable goods orders rose slightly in November, rising 0.2 percent after falling 0.6 percent in the previous month, the Commerce Department reported. Crude oil prices climb with dollar down   UPI / 10:44AM NEW YORK, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices headed higher Thursday morning, climbing above $77 per barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange as the dollar softened. Canadians like Christmas food and booze   UPI / 10:24AM OTTAWA, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- Canadians' spending on food and alcohol makes a major jump in December, Statistics Canada said in its seasonal number-crunching report. Oil well with potential found in Israel   UPI / 10:05AM TEL AVIV, Israel, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- An exploration team in Israel said it had discovered an oil field in the center of the country described as having significant commercial potential. Senate approves healthcare bill   UPI / 8:44AM WASHINGTON, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- The U.S. Senate voted 60-39 Thursday to approve a landmark 10-year, $871 billion healthcare bill to help cover 31 million uninsured Americans.

Wednesday, December 23 9 dead in explosion at Russian mine   UPI / 10:44PM NIZHNY YAGIL, Russia, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- At least nine people were killed Wednesday in an explosion in an iron mine in the Ural Mountains region of Russia, officials say. Nestle closes milk plant in Zimbabwe   UPI / 9:24PM HARARE, Zimbabwe, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- Nestle has closed its dairy plant in Zimbabwe, alleging attempts to harass and pressure the company into buying milk from certain suppliers, officials said. Boston Scientific settles probe for $22M   AP / 8:34PM Boston Scientific Corp. in Massachusetts said Wednesday it will pay $22 million to settle a federal probe of its pacemaker and defibrillator business. BOE says it will sit tight until February   UPI / 6:14PM LONDON, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- The Bank of England said Wednesday its decision to maintain low bank-to-bank interest rates this month was unanimous among its policymakers. CitiGroup, Wells Fargo repay TARP funds   UPI / 6:05PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- U.S. banking giants CitiGroup and Wells Fargo have repaid the U.S. Treasury $45 billion in bank bailout funds, U.S. officials said Wednesday. Grain futures mostly higher Wednesday   UPI / 5:54PM CHICAGO, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed mostly higher on the Chicago Board of Trade Wednesday with the dollar losing ground against the euro and the yen. Crude oil inventories fall in week   UPI / 4:10PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- U.S. crude oil inventories dropped by 4.9 million barrels in the week ending Dec. 18, the U.S. Energy Information Administration said Wednesday. Sale of new homes dropped in November   UPI / 2:05PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- Sales of new one-family homes fell 11.3 percent in November compared with October, the U.S. Commerce Department said Wednesday. Philippines journos honor slain colleagues   UPI / 11:54AM AMPATUAN, Philippines, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- Philippines journalists lit candles Wednesday as they visited the site where at least 22 of their colleagues were slain in November, observers said. Ford confirms sale of Volvo is still on   UPI / 11:05AM DEARBORN, Mich., Dec. 23 (UPI) -- U.S. automaker Ford Motor Co. said it had settled "all substantive" issues with Chinese automaker Geely for a sale of its Swedish brand Volvo.

Tuesday, December 22 Prices closed mixed on the CBOT   UPI / 9:05PM CHICAGO, Dec. 22 (UPI) -- Corn and soybeans were lower but wheat and oats were higher in quiet trading Tuesday on the Chicago Board of Trade. Crude oil ends week above $74 a barrel   UPI / 5:34PM NEW YORK, Dec. 22 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices rebounded from lower intraday trading to top $74 a barrel Tuesday on the U.S. Mercantile Exchange. Customer destroyed $1,000 in perfume   UPI / 4:24PM ATHENS, Ga., Dec. 22 (UPI) -- Police in Georgia said a customer angry about not being able to return items to a beauty shop smashed more than $1,000 worth of perfume bottles. Careers, accounts unwind at Lehman Bros.   UPI / 4:14PM LONDON, Dec. 22 (UPI) -- Collapsed investment bank Lehman Brothers is still hiring and can still hand out bonus checks this year, a bankruptcy court in New York said. Obama, small-bank leaders discuss economy   UPI / 4:05PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 22 (UPI) -- Leaders of smaller U.S. financial institutions and President Obama discussed how small businesses and homeowners could be helped more, Obama said Tuesday. Home sales pushed higher in November   UPI / 12:54PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 22 (UPI) -- Sales of existing U.S. homes jumped 7.4 percent in November, continuing an eight-month upswing, the National Association of Realtors said Tuesday. Missing Canadian gold sold as slag   UPI / 9:04AM OTTAWA, Dec. 22 (UPI) -- The $17 million in gold missing from the Royal Canadian Mint in Ottawa wasn't stolen but lost in small amounts sold off as byproduct metal slag, officials said. Highway work zone deaths not pursued   UPI / 8:44AM WASHINGTON, Dec. 22 (UPI) -- There are virtually no laws mandating safety measures in dangerous U.S. highway work zones despite a high death toll, The New York Times reported Tuesday.

Monday, December 21 Bucyrus to buy Terex's mining division   UPI / 7:44PM MILWAUKEE, Dec. 21 (UPI) -- U.S. mining equipment maker Bucyrus International said it had agreed to buy Terex Corp.'s mining division for $1.3 billion. Grain futures mixed Monday   UPI / 7:14PM CHICAGO, Dec. 21 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed mixed on the Chicago Board of Trade Monday as the dollar gained on the euro and the yen, but broke even on the broader dollar index. Boy freed from Costco gun safe   UPI / 6:34PM SACRAMENTO, Dec. 21 (UPI) -- Authorities in California said an 11-year-old boy was unharmed after getting locked inside a gun safe at a Costco store. Chinese miners retreat from Nevada deal   UPI / 4:44PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 21 (UPI) -- A Chinese mining giant, Northwest Non-Ferrous International Co., said it would not buy a gold mine in Nevada to sidestep a regulatory showdown. Brits buying top-end TP for holidays   UPI / 4:05PM LONDON, Dec. 21 (UPI) -- British supermarkets say sales of premium toilet paper are spiking during the holiday season as people stock up on the soft stuff to impress guests. Toyota's recalls could put a dent in trust   UPI / 3:24PM LOS ANGELES, Dec. 21 (UPI) -- Japanese automaker Toyota may have taken a larger hit in consumer confidence than other car companies, due to recent massive recalls, market analysts said. GM hires former Microsoft CFO as new finance chief   AP / 2:34PM DETROIT -- General Motors Co. said Monday it has hired the former chief financial officer of Microsoft Corp. as its new CFO, a key part of GM's plan to rebuild its finances after bankruptcy. Senator decries delays on Hispanic claims   UPI / 2:34PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 21 (UPI) -- U.S. Sen. Robert Menendez, D-N.J., has questioned denial of class-action status for Hispanic farmers suing the government for discrimination. 150 play hide-and-seek at Ikea   UPI / 2:34PM KARLSTAD, Sweden, Dec. 21 (UPI) -- Youngsters participating in a massive Internet-organized hide-and-seek game at a Swedish Ikea store have apologized for frightening a customer. Fiat to begin upgrades in Serbia   UPI / 1:14PM TURIN, Italy, Dec. 21 (UPI) -- Serbian President Boris Tadic and Fiat Chief Executive Officer Sergio Marchionne said Fiat would invest $143 million in Zastava cars by the end of the year. Target workers rehired despite toy issue   UPI / 12:14PM BUFFALO, N.Y., Dec. 21 (UPI) -- Target officials said seven former workers at the retail chain's store in Buffalo, N.Y., were reinstated despite their violations of a company policy. 'HOT lanes' said easing traffic congestion   UPI / 11:54AM MIAMI, Dec. 21 (UPI) -- High-occupancy toll, or HOT, lanes are easing traffic congestion in several major U.S. cities, officials say. OPEC likely to leave production unchanged   UPI / 11:54AM LUANDA, Angola, Dec. 21 (UPI) -- Oil ministers arriving in Luanda, Angola, and industry researchers said the world's dominant oil cartel would leave production levels unchanged for now. Mich. using land banks to battle blight   UPI / 11:34AM DETROIT, Dec. 21 (UPI) -- The state of Michigan is set to obtain thousands of foreclosed and blighted properties through new and existing land bank authorities, officials say. 2 killed, 20 hurt in Mogadishu violence   UPI / 9:24AM MOGADISHU, Somalia, Dec. 21 (UPI) -- At least two civilians were killed and about 20 were wounded in violence Monday in the Somali capital of Mogadishu, witnesses said. Saddam interrogation chamber demolished   UPI / 8:35AM BASRA, Iraq, Dec. 21 (UPI) -- A building used by former Iraqi President Saddam Hussein as an interrogation chamber is being demolished for a new Iraqi government compound, officials say.

Sunday, December 20 Senator explains her U-turn on healthcare   UPI / 7:34PM WASHINTON, D.C., Dec. 20 (UPI) -- Sen. Olympia Snowe, R-Maine, who had voted previously in favor of a healthcare reform bill, said Sunday she opposed the bill now because it "became bigger." Dutch automaker makes offer on Saab   UPI / 4:14PM NEW YORK, Dec. 20 (UPI) -- Dutch automaker Spyker said Sunday it has made an updated offer on Saab to General Motors, which owns the Swedish car brand. Fire damages packages at FedEx facility   UPI / 2:14PM PORTLAND, Ore., Dec. 20 (UPI) -- About 100 packages have been damaged in a pre-Christmas fire at a Portland, Ore., FedEx distribution center, officials say. 3 killed, 24 wounded in Somali shelling   UPI / 1:14PM MOGADISHU, Somalia, Dec. 20 (UPI) -- Shelling in the Somali capital of Mogadishu has killed at least three civilians and injured 24 others, witnesses said Sunday. Boat sinks, leaving five fishermen missing   UPI / 12:54PM BUSAN, South Korea, Dec. 20 (UPI) -- Five fishermen went missing Sunday off the coast of Busan, South Korea, after a large fishing vessel sank, police say. U.N.: Opium production rises in S.E. Asia   UPI / 2:05AM BANGKOK, Dec. 20 (UPI) -- More farmers hurt by low prices for legal crops are growing opium poppies in Myanmar and Laos, United Nations officials say.

Saturday, December 19 Nelson gives Democrats 60 healthcare votes   UPI / 4:54PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 19 (UPI) -- U.S. Sen. Ben Nelson, the last Democratic holdout against the healthcare bill, announced Saturday he will support it, giving leaders enough votes for passage. Shock, dismay in Sweden with Saab closure   UPI / 2:54PM STOCKHOLM, Sweden, Dec. 19 (UPI) -- Sweden has reacted with dismay and gloom at news that U.S. automaker General Motors will close down its Swedish subsidiary, Saab, experts say. Two So. Calif. banks shuttered   UPI / 10:44AM LOS ANGELES, Dec. 19 (UPI) -- Two Southern California banks stung by mortgage defaults have been closed by federal regulators and their assets assumed by others, officials said. Obama urges senators to pass reform bill   UPI / 6:14AM WASHINGTON, Dec. 19 (UPI) -- U.S. President Barack Obama urged senators Saturday to approve healthcare reform he said would cut families' costs, strengthen Medicare and lower the deficit.

Friday, December 18 Angry reporters heckle massacre suspect   UPI / 11:44PM MANILA, Philippines, Dec. 18 (UPI) -- Angry journalists confronted a Philippine politician charged in the Maguindanao massacre when he appeared in court Friday. Invasive species threaten Great Lakes   UPI / 8:05PM MILWAUKEE, Dec. 18 (UPI) -- A call to re-establish the natural barrier between the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River to restrain non-native species is gaining ground, officials say. Austin-Round Rock in Texas safest big city   UPI / 5:24PM LOS ANGELES, Dec. 18 (UPI) -- The Austin-Round Rock area in Texas is the safest big city region in the United States, Farmers Insurance Group of Companies said Thursday. Grain futures mixed Friday   UPI / 5:24PM CHICAGO, Dec. 18 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed mixed on the Chicago Board of Trade Friday with equities trading modestly higher and oil prices up during a winter chill. Crude oil prices rebound   UPI / 5:24PM NEW YORK, Dec. 18 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices topped $73 per barrel Friday on the New York Mercantile Exchange on lower supplies and demand-punching winter weather. Morgan Stanley CEO to pass on bonus pay   UPI / 3:54PM NEW YORK, Dec. 18 (UPI) -- The chief executive officer of one of the top U.S. financial firms, John Mack at Morgan Stanley, has requested the firm keep his bonus check for 2009. Agriculture can gain from climate bills   UPI / 2:24PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 (UPI) -- Agriculture will benefit from energy and climate change legislation having strong carbon offset programs, U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said Friday. GM to wind down Swedish brand Saab   UPI / 2:05PM DETROIT, Dec. 18 (UPI) -- General Motors Co. said Friday attempting to sell Swedish automaker Saab was a lost cause and it would discontinue the brand and wind down the company. Search at sea ends for fishing captain   UPI / 10:14AM YARMOUTH, Nova Scotia, Dec. 18 (UPI) -- The search for a Canadian fishing captain missing off the western coast of Nova Scotia was called off Friday two days after his ship sank, officials said. Deutsche Bank staff to share tax pain   UPI / 10:05AM LONDON, Dec. 18 (UPI) -- Deutsche Bank said it would apply a British tax targeting bank bonuses to its staff around the world to avoid having staff at only one location penalized. House to investigate Citigroup tax deal   UPI / 8:44AM WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 (UPI) -- A House subcommittee has agreed to investigate a U.S. Treasury Department rule change that will give Citigroup a $38 billion tax break. 4 dead, 38 saved in Lebanon ship sinking   UPI / 8:24AM BEIRUT, Lebanon, Dec. 18 (UPI) -- Rescuers said Friday they have recovered four bodies and saved 38 people from a Uruguayan ship that sank off the coast of Lebanon. Residents flee as cliff erodes under them   UPI / 12:44AM PACIFICA, Calif., Dec. 18 (UPI) -- Residents of a building on the California coast were given 20 minutes Thursday morning to grab what they could and evacuate as big chunks eroded from a cliff.

Thursday, December 17 Freed journalist thanks all who helped   UPI / 8:54PM CALGARY, Alberta, Dec. 17 (UPI) -- Canadian journalist Amanda Lindhout, in her first statement since being freed by Somali kidnappers who held her 15 months, gave thanks to those who helped her. Grain futures sharply lower Thursday   UPI / 6:14PM CHICAGO, Dec. 17 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed lower on the Chicago Board of Trade Thursday, as the dollar rose against the euro and yen and crude oil prices held steady. Record number of journalists die in 2009   UPI / 5:14PM NEW YORK, Dec. 17 (UPI) -- More journalists have been killed in 2009 than in any year the Committee to Protect Journalists has been tracking deaths, the group said Thursday. Insider is next Bank of America CEO   UPI / 2:54PM CHARLOTTE, N.C., Dec. 17 (UPI) -- Bank of America says its head of consumer banking Brian Moynihan will become its chief executive officer to replace Kenneth Lewis on Jan. 1. State Farm Florida to reduce, but stay   UPI / 2:24PM TALLAHASSEE, Fla., Dec. 17 (UPI) -- State Farm Florida agreed to maintain some business in Florida in exchange for dropping 125,000 policies and a 14.8 percent rate hike, state regulators said. Rescuers hear miners' cries for help   UPI / 1:04PM CHENZHOU, China, Dec. 17 (UPI) -- Chinese rescuers Thursday said they heard cries for help from a blocked mine shaft where five miners were trapped three stories underground. Mortgage losses still haunt four firms   UPI / 9:24AM WASHINGTON, Dec. 17 (UPI) -- An exit from government bailout programs is getting father away for four struggling U.S. firms that continue to draw on taxpayer funds, financial records show. Fishing boat sinks, 3 rescued, 1 missing   UPI / 8:44AM YARMOUTH, Nova Scotia, Dec. 17 (UPI) -- The search for a missing Canadian fishing boat captain resumed early Thursday off western Nova Scotia after his boat took on water and sank a day earlier.

Wednesday, December 16 Credit Suisse forfeits $536M to U.S.   UPI / 8:24PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 16 (UPI) -- Credit Suisse AG will forfeit a record $536 million to the United States for violating sanctions against Iran and other countries, officials said Wednesday. Grain futures climb slightly Wednesday   UPI / 8:05PM CHICAGO, Dec. 16 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed higher on the Chicago Board of Trade Wednesday as the dollar index fell slightly, 0.09 percent, and crude oil prices rose. Crude oil prices climb sharply   UPI / 7:14PM NEW YORK, Dec. 16 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices climbed to almost $73 per barrel in New York Wednesday after the U.S. Energy Information Administration said crude oil supplies had dropped. Afghan militants release 3 journalists   UPI / 6:24PM KABUL, Afghanistan, Dec. 16 (UPI) -- A reporter for the British newspaper The Guardian and two other journalists were released Wednesday after being held hostage in Afghanistan, officials said. Poll: Healthcare support under 50 percent   UPI / 6:14PM PRINCETON, N.J., Dec. 16 (UPI) -- Public support for U.S. healthcare reform is below 50 percent, a Gallup poll released Wednesday indicates. Housing starts up in November   UPI / 5:54PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 16 (UPI) -- Privately owned housing starts rose 8.9 percent in November from the previous month, the U.S. Commerce Department said Wednesday. Crude oil supplies drop   UPI / 5:44PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 16 (UPI) -- U.S. crude oil inventories dropped by 3.7 million barrels in the week ending Dec. 11, the U.S. Energy Information Administration said Wednesday. Fines for N.C. chicken plant ammonia leak   UPI / 4:54PM FAYETTEVILLE, N.C., Dec. 16 (UPI) -- North Carolina regulators say they have cited a Fayetteville area chicken-processing plant over an ammonia leak that killed a worker earlier this year. Fed maintains low interest rates   UPI / 4:54PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 16 (UPI) -- The Federal Reserve Bank's Open Market Committee ignored recent signs of inflation and said bank-to-bank interest rates would remain at historic lows. Foreclosure with wrecking ball hits Ohio   UPI / 4:34PM CLEVELAND, Dec. 16 (UPI) -- The Federal National Mortgage Association said it would sell foreclosed properties in Cleveland for $1, then pay to have them bulldozed. Global warming impacts wine and corn   UPI / 1:34PM STANFORD, Calif., Dec. 16 (UPI) -- Stanford University scientists say they've determined global warming could significantly negatively impact U.S. wine and corn production. Canadian manufacturing sales up in October   UPI / 1:14PM OTTAWA, Dec. 16 (UPI) -- Canadian manufacturing sales rose 2 percent in October to $42.5 billion, led by aerospace and petroleum gains, Statistics Canada reported from Ottawa Wednesday. Mortgage applications rise slightly   UPI / 12:44PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 16 (UPI) -- The volume of applications for U.S. mortgages rose 0.3 percent in a week on a seasonally adjusted basis, an industry group said Wednesday. Fla. home builder removing Chinese drywall   UPI / 11:35AM BOYNTON BEACH, Fla., Dec. 16 (UPI) -- Dozens of Florida residents were able to return to their houses after having potentially risky Chinese drywall removed by GL Homes, the home builder says. Citigroup deal includes huge tax break   UPI / 11:24AM WASHINGTON, Dec. 16 (UPI) -- Financial firm bailouts have included an IRS ruling that allows some of the largest U.S. banks to avoid paying billions of dollars in taxes, a tax expert said. OK given for 700 rooftop solar projects   UPI / 10:14AM TORONTO, Dec. 16 (UPI) -- Some 700 people in the Canadian province of Ontario have been approved to install rooftop solar panels to feed electricity back into the power grid.

Tuesday, December 15 Homebuilder confidence slips further   UPI / 7:35PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 15 (UPI) -- Confidence in business conditions among single-family homebuilders fell slightly in December, a U.S. industry group said Tuesday. Grain futures mixed Tuesday   UPI / 7:05PM CHICAGO, Dec. 15 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed mixed on the Chicago Board of Trade Tuesday as the dollar rose against the euro and the yen. 100-plus people indicted for fraud   UPI / 6:14PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 15 (UPI) -- More than 100 people were charged in a 162-count indictment with mail fraud and conspiracy, the U.S. attorney for Puerto Rico said Tuesday. Sweep nets Medicare fraud suspects in Miami, Detroit, New York   AP / 4:34PM MIAMI -- Federal agents Tuesday arrested about 30 doctors, nurses and health care operators in Miami, Detroit and New York on charges of submitting tens of millions of dollars in bogus bills to the taxpayer-funded Medicare program. Liftoff! Boeing Dreamliner takes off   AP / 2:34PM SEATTLE -- Boeing's 787 Dreamliner left the runway at Paine Field in Everett, Wash., on Tuesday. Cheered on by several thousand company employees and public spectators who assembled in the rain to see the historic flight, the jet made from carbon-fiber reinforced plastic soared aloft in Boeing's blue, white and turquoise colors into a gray Pacific Northwest sky. New York business index flattens   UPI / 1:35PM NEW YORK, Dec. 15 (UPI) -- The New York Federal Reserve said state manufacturing conditions reflected in a monthly survey fell flat in December. U.S. retailers report a week of gains   UPI / 1:24PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 15 (UPI) -- Retail sales in the United States rose in the week ending Dec. 12, the International Council of Shopping Centers-USB reported Tuesday. Kinky Friedman drops gubernatorial bid   UPI / 1:24PM AUSTIN, Texas, Dec. 15 (UPI) -- Satirist and songwriter Kinky Friedman says he's dropped his bid to become governor of Texas and instead plans to run for state agriculture commissioner. Three Russians missing in storm   UPI / 9:24AM SOCHI, Russia, Dec. 15 (UPI) -- Rescuers said they were searching Tuesday for three men who vanished during a fierce storm in Sochi, Russia, the host city of the 2014 Winter Olympics. Exxon Mobil to buy natural gas company that drills in Pa.   AP / 4:34AM Dec. 15--In the latest sign of the growing importance of natural gas in the nation's energy mix, Exxon Mobil Corp. yesterday said it would pay $41 billion for XTO Energy Inc., a major player in unconventional gas plays such as Pennsylvania's Marcellus Shale. Weekends, holidays pack on pounds   UPI / 1:24AM PITTSBURGH, Dec. 15 (UPI) -- U.S. holiday and weekend eating differs significantly from weekday food consumption, U.S. researchers found.

Monday, December 14 Wells Fargo, Citigroup in TARP payback   UPI / 8:05PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 14 (UPI) -- Wells Fargo & Co. said Monday it will repay $25 billion it borrowed from the U.S. Treasury under last year's bank bailout program. Corn harvest tops 90 percent complete   UPI / 6:05PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 14 (UPI) -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture said the corn harvest in the 18 largest corn-producing states was 92 percent completed as of Dec.3. Grain futures mostly higher Monday   UPI / 5:54PM CHICAGO, Dec. 14 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed mostly higher on the Chicago Board of Trade Monday as the dollar index, a measurement against major currencies, dropped 0.31 percent. Toyota gears up for plug-in Prius   UPI / 4:44PM TOKYO, Dec. 14 (UPI) -- Japanese automaker Toyota Motor Corp. said it would be ready for a large scale release of a plug-in Prius vehicle by 2011. Sarkozy unveils $51B 'grand loan'   UPI / 4:35PM PARIS, Dec. 14 (UPI) -- French President Nicolas Sarkozy Monday announced a $51.5 billion "grand loan" program to invest in renewable energy, the digital economy and universities. Exxon to buy XTO Energy for $41B   AP / 3:34PM Exxon Mobil Corp. Monday said it reached a deal to buy U.S. White House: Bill will curb health costs   UPI / 2:44PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 14 (UPI) -- The Obama administration Monday reassured that healthcare costs would decline over the long run under the reform bill being debated in the U.S. Senate. Exxon Mobil to buy XTO Energy in $41 billion deal   AP / 2:35PM FORT WORTH, Texas -- Irving, Texas,-based global oil giant Exxon Mobil Corp. is buying Fort Worth-based XTO Energy in a deal valued at $41 billion, with plans to create "a premier upstream organization based in Fort Worth," an Exxon Mobil official told investment analysts in a conference call Monday. Obama urges bankers to open loan spigot   UPI / 2:14PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 14 (UPI) -- U.S. President Barack Obama said Monday banks must make an "extraordinary commitment" to help the country recover from a crisis that was partly their fault. Long-term health plan part of reforms   UPI / 7:54AM WASHINGTON, Dec. 14 (UPI) -- U.S. Senate backers say a long-term healthcare plan for people with disabilities should be included in health insurance reform legislation. FDA issues its first debarment action   UPI / 7:44AM WASHINGTON, Dec. 14 (UPI) -- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration says it has issued its first debarment order, prohibiting a Virginia seafood dealer from importing food for 20 years.

Sunday, December 13 Court overturns video seizure by police   UPI / 9:35PM WINNEPEG, Manitoba, Dec. 13 (UPI) -- A Canadian court reversed a lower court ruling that said media must surrender video of a press conference of a man shot and Tasered by police. Toyota's Scion falls on hard times   UPI / 5:14PM DETROIT, Dec. 13 (UPI) -- Toyota's Scion hasn't been able to maintain the U.S. sales promise it showed when introduced six years ago, industry analysts say. Nelson: Won't vote for abortion language   UPI / 1:05PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 13 (UPI) -- U.S. Sen. Ben Nelson, D-Neb., says he can't support a Senate healthcare reform measure because of its abortion language. McCaskill: Health bill mustn't raise costs   UPI / 12:34PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 13 (UPI) -- U.S. Sen. Clare McCaskill, D-Mo., says she'll vote against a Senate healthcare reform measure if it raises costs or adds to the deficit. Banks slap requirements on refinancing   UPI / 11:24AM WASHINGTON, Dec. 13 (UPI) -- U.S. banks are imposing stringent financial requirements on homeowners looking to refinance at record-low mortgage rates, analysts say.

Saturday, December 12 Thousands march through Copenhagen   UPI / 8:14PM COPENHAGEN, Denmark, Dec. 12 (UPI) -- Thousands of marchers swarmed central Copenhagen Saturday, urging action on global warming, and police and radicals clashed in elsewhere in the Danish city. Shoplifting goes serious, organized   UPI / 6:54PM HARTFORD, Conn., Dec. 12 (UPI) -- In South Windsor, Conn., police say bold daylight criminals are focusing on shoplifting quality, high-ticket items for resale rather than personal use. Christmas healthcare bill deadline iffy   UPI / 2:54PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 12 (UPI) -- Doubts are growing over whether the U.S. Senate can pass a healthcare reform bill by Christmas, lawmakers say. Study: Poor kids given more antipsychotics   UPI / 2:44PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 12 (UPI) -- Poor U.S. children covered by Medicaid are prescribed powerful antipsychotic drugs more often than those under private healthcare, a study indicates. Likely new UAW president praised   UPI / 2:14PM DETROIT, Dec. 12 (UPI) -- The likely next president of the U.S. United Auto Workers union has wide-ranging respect among both labor and management, analysts say. Group allegedly brought drugs to N.J.   UPI / 10:34AM HAMMONTON, N.J., Dec. 12 (UPI) -- A group of drug dealers with ties to Mexico and Ohio brought methamphetamine and marijuana to South Jersey, investigators said Friday. Christmas tree sales up in turnaround   UPI / 10:05AM NEW YORK, Dec. 12 (UPI) -- U.S. Christmas tree sales are up this holiday season when compared to last year's disastrous showing, a survey indicates. SEC says it's preparing for Bank of America trial   AP / 4:35AM Dec. 11--A Congressional investigation of Bank of America came to an anti-climactic end Friday, but the Security and Exchange Commission's probe of the Charlotte bank is heating up.

Friday, December 11 Oil prices fall for 8th straight session   UPI / 5:54PM NEW YORK, Dec. 11 (UPI) -- Crude-oil futures fell Friday for an eighth straight session, the longest losing streak in more than six years. Treasury caps pay for more executives   UPI / 2:44PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 11 (UPI) -- The U.S. Treasury's pay czar Kenneth Feinberg Friday announced rules on pay for a new level of managers at companies receiving extraordinary bailout help. Financial reform hits bipartisan House   UPI / 10:44AM WASHINGTON, Dec. 11 (UPI) -- Rep. Lynn Jenkins, R-Kan., complained of "bailout fatigue," as a debate on the pros and cons of a regulatory overhaul bill reached the House in Washington. Canadian Tire reins in use of its 'money'   UPI / 9:34AM TORONTO, Dec. 11 (UPI) -- The Canadian Tire retail giant is clamping down on other companies accepting its loyalty reward "money," citing trademark infringement. Treasury reports on mortgage programs   UPI / 1:44AM WASHINGTON, Dec. 11 (UPI) -- Only 4 percent of homeowners involved in trial mortgage modifications have been accepted for permanent help, U.S. Treasury officials reported Thursday.

Thursday, December 10 TARP to be used to help small businesses?   UPI / 11:24PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 10 (UPI) -- The Obama administration plans to provide major incentives for banks to make loans to small businesses as a way of creating jobs, sources said. Aide to ex-Detroit mayor pleads guilty   UPI / 10:54PM DETROIT, Dec. 10 (UPI) -- An aide to former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick pleaded guilty Thursday to taking a bribe over the sale of a city-owned camp. Editor & Publisher set to close   UPI / 8:14PM NEW YORK, Dec. 10 (UPI) -- The Nielsen Co. said Thursday it plans to cease publication of the print and online editions of the U.S. magazine Editor & Publisher. Farmers in Midwest still getting corn in   UPI / 5:44PM CHICAGO, Dec. 10 (UPI) -- Farmers in Midwestern states have had a tough year, with spring rain, low July temperatures and an early frost pushing harvests into December, officials said. GE turbines picked for huge U.S. wind farm   UPI / 5:34PM NEW YORK, Dec. 10 (UPI) -- The United States' largest-ever wind farm will use $1.4 billion worth of turbines built by General Electric Co., the New York company said Thursday. Grain futures mixed Thursday   UPI / 4:44PM CHICAGO, Dec. 10 (UPI) -- Grain futures were mixed on the Chicago Board of Trade Thursday as U.S. equities made modest gains and the dollar gained against the yen. Report: Canada paper producers in trouble   UPI / 4:35PM OTTAWA, Dec. 10 (UPI) -- Canada's paper industry is in trouble and expected to lose $1.2 billion this year, a federal observation agency in Ottawa said Thursday. Coupons use surges in rough economy   UPI / 4:14PM NEW YORK, Dec. 10 (UPI) -- The Internet and the recession have combined forces to create a resurgence of the shopping coupon, a U.S. retail analyst said. Shhh: AIG back on top in fixed annuities   UPI / 12:34PM NEW YORK, Dec. 10 (UPI) -- American International Group has anonymously climbed back to the top spot in fixed annuity sales, a private U.S. research firm said. BOE, Swiss, leave lending rates unchanged   UPI / 11:04AM LONDON, Dec. 10 (UPI) -- The Bank of England left its official overnight lending rate unchanged Thursday, continuing with a 0.5 percent rate and an asset purchasing program. Canada posts trade surplus in October   UPI / 11:04AM OTTAWA, Dec. 10 (UPI) -- Canadian exports rose and imports fell in October, leading the country to a $428 million trade surplus, Statistics Canada reported from Ottawa Thursday. Kidnapped journalist home in Canada   UPI / 10:05AM CALGARY, Alberta, Dec. 10 (UPI) -- Canadian journalist Amanda Lindhout was at her family home in Alberta Thursday after spending 15 months as a hostage in Somalia with an Australian colleague. Citigroup presses case to repay government   UPI / 9:05AM NEW YORK, Dec. 10 (UPI) -- Sources close to Citigroup said the last Wall Street banking giant with bailout funds on its books has ramped up efforts to repay its $20 billion federal loan.

Wednesday, December 9 Oil supplies down, gas up in week   UPI / 6:35PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 9 (UPI) -- U.S. crude oil inventories dropped by 3.8 million barrels in the week ending Dec. 4, the U.S. Energy Information Administration said Wednesday. Alaska oil pipeline leak located   UPI / 6:24PM ANCHORAGE, Alaska, Dec. 9 (UPI) -- Officials say they have found the source of what is believed to be one of the biggest ever leaks of crude oil from the pipeline on the North Slope of Alaska. Grain futures mostly lower Wednesday   UPI / 6:14PM CHICAGO, Dec. 9 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed mostly lower on the Chicago Board of Trade Wednesday as harvest-halting winter weather blanketed much of the Midwest and Northeast. United order bypassed Boeing moneymaker   UPI / 5:44PM CHICAGO, Dec. 9 (UPI) -- A huge plane order from United Airlines may have sent U.S. plane maker Boeing a message that its 777 jet program requires help, an industry analyst said. British bankers hit with steep bonus tax   UPI / 4:35PM LONDON, Dec. 9 (UPI) -- British Chancellor of the Exchequer Alistair Darling announced a tax on bankers' bonus checks, but said in a budget presentation banks would foot the bill. Volkswagen to buy one fifth of Suzuki   UPI / 2:54PM WOLFSBURG, Germany, Dec. 9 (UPI) -- German automaker Volkswagen said Wednesday it would pay $2.5 billion for a 19.9 percent stake in Japan's Suzuki Motor Corp. Colorado cow killings unexplained   UPI / 2:34PM DENVER, Dec. 9 (UPI) -- At least eight cows have been killed and mutilated this year in southern Colorado, acts that have baffled their owners, investigators say. Fugitive worked for Homeland Security   UPI / 2:14PM NEWARK, N.J., Dec. 9 (UPI) -- A woman wanted for insurance fraud in New Jersey was discovered working for the Department of Homeland Security in Georgia, prosecutors say. Mortgage activity up with rates higher   UPI / 1:24PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 9 (UPI) -- The volume of applications for U.S. mortgages rose 8.5 percent in a week on a seasonally adjusted basis, an industry group said Wednesday. Credit card firms prepared for new law   UPI / 12:54PM NEW YORK, Dec. 9 (UPI) -- Credit card industry analysts say U.S. firms will be able to recoup losses expected from the credit card law that goes into effect in February. Canadian organized crime car thefts up   UPI / 8:44AM TORONTO, Dec. 9 (UPI) -- Overall car thefts in Canada are down, but the types of vehicles being stolen indicate more organized crime involvement, the Insurance Bureau of Canada said.

Tuesday, December 8 New South Wales scorched by bushfires   UPI / 8:34PM BATHURST, Australia, Dec. 8 (UPI) -- Two farmers in southeastern Australia were severely burned Tuesday trying to protect their property from a bushfire, one of scores burning in the region. Senate compromise would expand Medicare   UPI / 7:05PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 8 (UPI) -- Liberal Democrats, in return for concessions on a public health insurance option, are pushing to expand Medicare and Medicaid and tighten insurance laws. Grain futures mixed Tuesday   UPI / 6:54PM CHICAGO, Dec. 8 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed mixed on the Chicago Board of Trade Tuesday, though stock markets dropped in Asia, Europe and the United States. Crude oil prices drop Tuesday   UPI / 6:44PM NEW YORK, Dec. 8 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices dropped to under $73 per barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange as the U.S. dollar gained strength. GM to build Malibu, Volt, in Michigan   UPI / 4:05PM DETROIT, Dec. 8 (UPI) -- General Motors Co. said it would build the 2012 Chevrolet Malibu and two electric and gasoline hybrid cars at the Detroit-Hamtramck plant in Michigan. Retailer stocks inflatable bra pads   UPI / 4:05PM LONDON, Dec. 8 (UPI) -- A British retailer says it is now stocking bra pads that inflate to increase cleavage by up to a cup size with the push of a button. Home prices up in third quarter   UPI / 3:24PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 8 (UPI) -- The Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. said Tuesday that U.S. home prices rose 1.1 percent in the third quarter for the second consecutive quarterly gain. Call for international bank police   UPI / 2:24PM LONDON, Dec. 8 (UPI) -- A former top bank regulator in Britain has called for the formation of an international regulator to enforce global financing standards. Bankers think lawsuit prior to 'supertax'   UPI / 1:54PM LONDON, Dec. 8 (UPI) -- A prominent tax accountant in Britain said bankers were inquiring about suing the government, which is contemplating a 50 percent bank bonus pay tax. Northern Rock shareholders stiffed   UPI / 1:14PM LONDON, Dec. 8 (UPI) -- An independent accountant in Britain said Tuesday that shareholders of the nationalized Northern Rock bank should expect no return on their investment. Accounting board chair recommends changes   UPI / 12:54PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 8 (UPI) -- The chairman of the U.S. Financial Accounting Standards Board recommended splitting bank asset valuations from "fair value" accounting standards. Retail down in week, but shoppers not done   UPI / 11:44AM WASHINGTON, Dec. 8 (UPI) -- Retail sales in the United States dropped 1.3 percent in the week ending Dec. 5, the International Council of Shopping Centers-USB reported Tuesday. Canadian housing starts up in November   UPI / 11:14AM OTTAWA, Dec. 8 (UPI) -- Canada's housing starts edged up by 1,400 units to 158,500 in November from October, the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corp. reported Tuesday. Fed help desk to aid food safety   UPI / 10:44AM WASHINGTON, Dec. 8 (UPI) -- The U.S. Food Safety and Inspection Service says it has created a help desk to assist operators of small meat, poultry and processed egg product facilities. Home prices rise in Britain   UPI / 10:35AM LONDON, Dec. 8 (UPI) -- Home prices in Britain rose 1.4 percent in November, the fifth consecutive month of gains, the country's largest mortgage lender, Halifax, said Tuesday.

Monday, December 7 Bank scandal claims Venezuelan politician   UPI / 8:24PM CARACAS, Venezuela, Dec. 7 (UPI) -- Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez says his science and technology minister will resign in the wake of a banking scandal involving his brother. Harvests nearing completion in most states   UPI / 7:54PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 7 (UPI) -- All but two of the 18 largest corn-producing states have harvests at least 80 percent completed, the U.S. Department of Agriculture said Monday. Journalists want recognition for savior   UPI / 7:35PM CALGARY, Alberta, Dec. 7 (UPI) -- Friends of a Somali instrumental in the release of a kidnapped Canadian freelance journalist and her Australian companion say he deserves recognition. Grain futures mixed Monday   UPI / 7:14PM CHICAGO, Dec. 7 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed mixed on the Chicago Board of Trade Monday with the dollar index falling 0.25 percent to 75.72. Toyota top of sudden acceleration list   UPI / 5:54PM YONKERS, N.Y., Dec. 7 (UPI) -- Japanese automaker Toyota received 41 percent of all consumer complaints about sudden acceleration in 2008 model cars, Consumer Reports said. Bernanke describes recovery as young   UPI / 2:24PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 7 (UPI) -- U.S. Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke said Monday that the economic recovery was still on young legs and had a long way to go. Canada approves $6.1B in projects in month   UPI / 2:05PM OTTAWA, Dec. 7 (UPI) -- Statistics Canada said Monday that the value of building permits issued in October rose 18 percent from September to $6.1 billion. Chrysler focuses on its truck brands   UPI / 1:44PM AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Dec. 7 (UPI) -- Dodge Ram's brand chief Fred Diaz said Chrysler would focus on North America as the market of choice in efforts to revamp truck sales. GM, Chrysler: New leaders on two tracks   UPI / 1:14PM DETROIT, Dec. 7 (UPI) -- New leaders at General Motors Co. and Chrysler Group face very different challenges, U.S. auto industry analysts said. Banks in Britain pan 'supertax' idea   UPI / 1:04PM LONDON, Dec. 7 (UPI) -- Bankers in Britain warned that a special tax on bank bonus checks would scare both businesses and individuals away to other countries. Iceland's GDP falls sharply   UPI / 11:44AM REYKJAVIK, Iceland, Dec. 7 (UPI) -- Iceland's gross domestic product fell 7.2 percent on an annual basis in the third quarter and 5.7 percent from the second quarter, the government said. Citigroup repayment may have to wait   UPI / 11:24AM NEW YORK, Dec. 7 (UPI) -- Citibank has a 10-day window of opportunity in which to raise funds to repay the U.S. government $20 billion in TARP loans, sources close to the bank said. FDA: Link between norovirus and oysters?   UPI / 9:44AM WASHINGTON, Dec. 7 (UPI) -- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is advising people not to eat oysters harvested from San Antonio Bay on or after Nov. 16.

Sunday, December 6 Report: Stanford destroyed bank records   UPI / 3:34PM MIAMI, Dec. 6 (UPI) -- U.S. banker Allen Stanford went to great lengths to hide his failing financial condition as fraud investigators closed in, records and interviews indicate. Experts question outsider as GM chief   UPI / 3:05PM DETROIT, Dec. 6 (UPI) -- The owners of the restructured General Motors Co. want a Detroit outsider to lead the automaker as chief executive, but that's risky, analysts say. Corvette stolen in 1970 returned   UPI / 11:44AM SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Dec. 6 (UPI) -- A 1965 Corvette stolen in 1970 is being returned to its Nashville owner in perfect condition after being found in Scottsdale, Ariz., police said.

Saturday, December 5 2 men, 43 horses dead in Ohio barn fire   UPI / 8:54PM LEBANON, Ohio, Dec. 5 (UPI) -- A fast-moving fire in a building at the Lebanon Raceway in Ohio killed two men and 43 horses early Saturday, firefighters said. Six ailing U.S. banks shuttered   UPI / 10:24AM WASHINGTON, Dec. 5 (UPI) -- Financial regulators have closed six banks, bringing the total of shuttered U.S. institutions to 130 so far this year, officials said.

Friday, December 4 Boston developer reaching for the sun   UPI / 8:04PM BOSTON, Dec. 4 (UPI) -- Environmental officials in Massachusetts gave approval to a developer previously jailed protesting nuclear power to build a 650 kilowatt solar power plant. Factory orders higher than expected   UPI / 6:05PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 4 (UPI) -- New orders for manufactured U.S. goods rose in October for the fifth time in the past six months, beating expectations, the U.S. Census Bureau reported Friday. Grain futures lower on stronger dollar   UPI / 4:44PM CHICAGO, Dec. 4 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed lower on the Chicago Board of Trade as the dollar made strong gains, jumping 1.57 percent on the dollar index. U.S. crude prices slide Friday   UPI / 4:44PM NEW YORK, Dec. 4 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices dropped below $76 per barrel Friday with concerns of increased U.S. stockpiles weighing on the market. U.S. government targeting black lung   UPI / 4:14PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 4 (UPI) -- U.S. Department of Labor officials said the government intends to educate miners of the risks of black lung while increasing outreach to the mining industry. WTO head warns against protectionism   UPI / 2:05PM VIENNA, Dec. 4 (UPI) -- The head of the World Trade Organization has urged industrialized nations meeting in Vienna not to close their markets to exports from developing nations. U.S. border agents seize counterfeit toys   UPI / 12:14PM SAN DIEGO, Dec. 4 (UPI) -- Nearly $1.6 million worth of counterfeit toys were seized by U.S. border agents after the items crossed the U.S.-Mexican border, officials said. GM to drop 1 percent of Chinese operations   UPI / 11:24AM DETROIT, Dec. 4 (UPI) -- General Motors Co. said it would sell 1 percent of its Chinese operations to its Chinese partner Shanghai Automotive Industry Corp. for about $85 million. Bank fears grip Venezuela   UPI / 9:34AM CARACAS, Venezuela, Dec. 4 (UPI) -- Bankers in Venezuela are working to calm fears that the nation's banking system is in crisis after the government's recent seizure of four small banks. Settlers vow to escalate freeze protests   UPI / 8:14AM JERUSALEM, Dec. 4 (UPI) -- West Bank settlers vowed to escalate protests against the 10-month construction freeze after a meeting with Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu proved fruitless.

Thursday, December 3 Detroit police seize counterfeit clothing   UPI / 8:54PM DETROIT, Dec. 3 (UPI) -- Detroit police seized clothes, pocketbooks and shoes after getting a tip two stores were selling counterfeit items with high-end labels, investigators said. Fed chairman fends off critics in bid for 2nd term   AP / 8:34PM Dec. 3--WASHINGTON -- Making a case for his confirmation to a second term as the chairman of the Federal Reserve, Ben Bernanke on Thursday defended unpopular actions he's taken that helped stem a spreading global financial crisis, and he offered a mea culpa for the Fed's failure to see the storm coming. Three Somali ministers dead in bombing   UPI / 8:05PM MOGADISHU, Somalia, Dec. 3 (UPI) -- Three cabinet ministers were among the more than 20 people killed Thursday in the suicide bombing of a graduation in Mogadishu, officials said. Crude oil prices slide on inventory gains   UPI / 6:44PM NEW YORK, Dec. 3 (UPI) -- Oil prices dropped below $76 per barrel Thursday after the government said crude oil and gasoline inventories rose in the week ending Nov. 27. Grain futures mixed Thursday   UPI / 6:24PM CHICAGO, Dec. 3 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed mixed on the Chicago Board of Trade Thursday as the dollar gained against the yen, but fell against the euro. Write-downs, early debt payments widen Toll's 3Q loss   AP / 3:34PM Dec. 3--Pretax write-downs and early debt retirement increased Toll Bros.' fourth-quarter losses to $111.4 million, or 68 cents a share, the Horsham-based builder of luxury homes said today. Mortgage rates drop to record lows   AP / 3:34PM Interest rates for 30-year fixed-rate mortgage loans fell to a record low in the week ending Dec. 3, the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. said Thursday. Bernanke defends Fed, warts and all   UPI / 2:44PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 3 (UPI) -- U.S. Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke told Senate Banking Committee members in a partly contentious confirmation hearing the central bank made mistakes. Google offers publishers concessions   UPI / 1:14PM MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., Dec. 3 (UPI) -- U.S. Internet giant Google said Thursday news outlets could use an easier system to block their content from appearing on Google News. Canadian prairie crops down in 2009   UPI / 11:34AM OTTAWA, Dec. 3 (UPI) -- Weather conditions led to a decline in Canadian prairie field crop yields in 2009, Statistics Canada reported from Ottawa Thursday. Report says Shalit taken to Egypt   UPI / 8:14AM JERUSALEM, Dec. 3 (UPI) -- A Kuwaiti newspaper reports kidnapped Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit is being held in Egypt until a deal to secure his release is finalized. Bank of America repaying government $45B   UPI / 12:05AM CHARLOTTE, N.C., Dec. 2 (UPI) -- Bank of America announced Wednesday it has negotiated an agreement to pay back the $45 billion in federal aid it has received.

Wednesday, December 2 California man shoots teenage wall-jumper   UPI / 8:05PM GARDENA, Calif., Dec. 2 (UPI) -- A California man was charged with attempted murder and assault with a deadly weapon for shooting a teenager who used the man's yard as a shortcut, police say. Grain futures sharply lower Wednesday   UPI / 6:54PM CHICAGO, Dec. 2 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed sharply lower Wednesday on the Chicago Board of Trade as the dollar gained against the euro and the yen. Nigerian cities enduring fuel shortages   UPI / 4:14PM ABUJA, Nigeria, Dec. 2 (UPI) -- Residents of the Nigerian cities of Abuja and Lagos are facing ongoing fuel shortages in the oil exporting African nation, officials said Wednesday. Indian man held over diamonds in Zimbabwe   UPI / 4:14PM HARARE, Zimbabwe, Dec. 2 (UPI) -- A 35-year-old Indian man is facing allegations he failed to have a license or permit to carry seven diamonds in his possession, Zimbabwean authorities said. CEO candidates recommend changes at BofA   UPI / 1:14PM CHARLOTTE, N.C., Dec. 2 (UPI) -- Applicants for the top job at Bank of America, the largest U.S. bank, have recommended paring down the bank's size, sources close to the executive search said. Mortgage activity rose in short week   UPI / 11:54AM WASHINGTON, Dec. 2 (UPI) -- The volume of applications for U.S. mortgages rose 2.1 percent in a week shortened by the Thanksgiving holiday, an industry group said. Census worker's son argues suicide finding   UPI / 11:14AM LOUISVILLE, Ky., Dec. 2 (UPI) -- The son of a U.S. Census worker found dead in a remote area of Kentucky said he disagrees with the police finding that his father killed himself. FDIC points to those under-served   UPI / 8:54AM WASHINGTON, Dec. 2 (UPI) -- A Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. report says that 25 percent of U.S. households do not use banks to cash paychecks or deposit funds. PETA moving some operations to LA   UPI / 1:44AM NORFOLK, Va., Dec. 2 (UPI) -- The animal rights group PETA plans to move its campaign, youth and online marketing employees from Virginia to Los Angeles to be closer to the action.

Tuesday, December 1 20,000 chickens killed in Ga. fire   UPI / 11:34PM CUMMING, Ga., Dec. 1 (UPI) -- A roaring fire in a Georgia poultry farm barn Tuesday afternoon killed more than 20,000 chickens, fire officials said. GM's chief Fritz Henderson resigns   UPI / 6:34PM DETROIT, Dec. 1 (UPI) -- General Motors Co. said Chief Executive Officer Fritz Henderson would resign effective immediately after eight months leading the largest U.S. automaker. Crude oil prices rise Tuesday   UPI / 5:54PM NEW YORK, Dec. 1 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices rose for the second consecutive day Tuesday, climbing to nearly $78 per barrel after a manufacturing index rose in China. Grain futures mixed Tuesday   UPI / 5:44PM CHICAGO, Dec. 1 (UPI) -- Grain futures found price support on the Chicago Board of Trade with a lower dollar and higher crude oil prices Tuesday. Senate aide to be tapped to lead NHTSA   UPI / 1:34PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 1 (UPI) -- President Barack Obama was expected to nominate soon a Senate aide as the top U.S. auto regulator, several officials said. EPA postpones more ethanol in gasoline   UPI / 1:24PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 1 (UPI) -- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says it will postpone allowing any increase in the amount of ethanol in gasoline until it can determine the impact. Manufacturing showed growth in November   UPI / 12:44PM TEMPE, Ariz., Dec. 1 (UPI) -- Twelve of 18 manufacturing groups reported business growth in November, the Institute for Supply Management said Tuesday. Dubai's property arm is cut adrift   AP / 12:34PM Dec. 1--Dubai's cash-starved government has abandoned its flagship conglomerate after saying it has not guaranteed the $59bn debt of Dubai World. Construction outlays flat in October   UPI / 12:34PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 1 (UPI) -- Spending on private and public construction in the United States turned flat in October compared with September, the U.S. Commerce Department said Tuesday. Nova Scotia approves $120M wind farm   UPI / 11:44AM HALIFAX, Nova Scotia, Dec. 1 (UPI) -- A provincial utility regulator in Nova Scotia has approved the construction of a $120 million wind turbine farm that can power 10,000 homes. Accused Ponzi lawyer surrenders   AP / 11:34AM Florida businessman Scott Rothstein has surrendered to FBI agents to face charges he ran a $1.2 billion Ponzi scheme, authorities said. Rev. Jackson calls for foreclosure hiatus   UPI / 11:34AM ATLANTA, Dec. 1 (UPI) -- The Rev. Jesse Jackson has called on banks in Georgia to pass on home foreclosure auctions at least through the holiday season. Canadians plan lower Christmas spending   UPI / 10:35AM TORONTO, Dec. 1 (UPI) -- Canadians are more optimistic about the economy next year, but 47 percent plan on spending less this Christmas season, a Royal Bank of Canada survey showed. BOJ injects $115 billion for easy loans   UPI / 8:24AM TOKYO, Dec. 1 (UPI) -- The Bank of Japan Tuesday announced it will pump 10 trillion yen or about $115 billion to make three-month loans to commercial banks at 0.1 percent interest.

Monday, November 30 Court rules in long-running insurance feud   UPI / 6:24PM SAN FRANCISCO, Nov. 30 (UPI) -- A California court has ruled in a long-fought legal battle between insurance companies and accident victims over who pays for medical care, and how much. Corn harvest lags behind others   UPI / 6:24PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 30 (UPI) -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture said Monday the nation's corn crop was 79 percent harvested with two states reporting the harvest is complete. Grain futures mostly higher Monday   UPI / 6:05PM CHICAGO, Nov. 30 (UPI) -- Corn, wheat and soybean futures closed higher on the Chicago Board of Trade Monday as the dollar continued to weaken against the euro and the yen. Ford to put more muscle in the Mustang   UPI / 4:24PM DEARBORN, Mich., Nov. 30 (UPI) -- The rivalry between U.S. sports cars Camaro and Mustang is heating up with Ford Motor Co. gunning for power and fuel efficiency, the company said. U.N. joins chorus decrying minaret vote   UPI / 4:04PM BERN, Switzerland, Nov. 30 (UPI) -- An independent U.N. expert on religious freedoms Monday said the Swiss vote to ban construction of new minarets discriminates against Muslims. Developer buries plan for urn repository   UPI / 2:24PM CHICAGO, Nov. 30 (UPI) -- Chicago developers say they have withdrawn plans to turn a former women's dorm into a human ash repository. $83 million Explorer award survives   UPI / 1:44PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 30 (UPI) -- The U.S. Supreme Court Monday rejected a challenge to an $83-million verdict for a California woman paralyzed in a Ford Explorer rollover accident. German mediator for Shalit deal in Gaza   UPI / 1:05PM JERUSALEM, Nov. 30 (UPI) -- A German mediator informed Hamas officials in Gaza of Israel's response to the pending prisoner swap to release Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit, al-Arabiya said. Weekend shopping has mixed results   UPI / 12:05PM NEW YORK, Nov. 30 (UPI) -- The National Retail Federation said U.S. store traffic increased from a year ago during the Thanksgiving weekend, but shoppers, on average, spent less. Prosecutors: Mine bosses hid blast tragedy   UPI / 11:14AM BEIJING, Nov. 30 (UPI) -- Chinese prosecutors say mine bosses and journalists conspired to cover up a Hebei province mining disaster last year. Christmas for a song: $21,465.56   UPI / 10:14AM NEW YORK, Nov. 30 (UPI) -- The 12 outlandish gifts represented in the Christmas carol "The Twelve Days of Christmas," rose slightly in cost this year, a private U.S. survey said. UAE bank steps up support for Dubai   UPI / 10:05AM DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Nov. 30 (UPI) -- The United Arab Emirates central bank pledged support for banks doing business in Dubai to cordon off damage from Dubai World's massive debt restructuring. Dishwashing detergent to be phosphate-free   UPI / 12:54AM WASHINGTON, Nov. 30 (UPI) -- Dishwasher detergent manufacturers are scrambling to eliminate phosphates in compliance with states' bans, an industry spokeswoman said. MGM gambles on $8.5B Vegas project   UPI / 12:34AM LAS VEGAS, Nov. 30 (UPI) -- Las Vegas is betting an already-troubled $8.5 billion resort complex will bring customers and tourists back to the recession-ravaged Strip, officials say.

Sunday, November 29 Israeli official praises settlement freeze   UPI / 7:14PM JERUSALEM, Nov. 29 (UPI) -- Israeli Deputy Foreign Minister Danny Ayalon, unlike many other Israeli leaders, has praised a decision to freeze Jewish settlement building. Homeowners becoming renters in Calif.   UPI / 2:54PM SAN BERNARDINO, Calif., Nov. 29 (UPI) -- Homeowners throughout Southern California are moving into rental properties due to foreclosure and falling rental costs, industry experts said. Fla. beaches focus of Supreme Court case   UPI / 2:44PM TALLAHASSEE, Fla., Nov. 29 (UPI) -- The U.S. Supreme Court is set to hear allegations that Florida state officials infringed on the rights of beachfront property owners, an attorney said. Black Friday sales up 0.5 percent   UPI / 12:35PM CHICAGO, Nov. 29 (UPI) -- U.S. shoppers spent $10.66 billion on Black Friday, a total slightly higher than last year's figure, a market survey indicates. Monsanto draws U.S. antitrust scrutiny   UPI / 11:54AM WASHINGTON, Nov. 29 (UPI) -- Antitrust scrutiny of agriculture conglomerate Monsanto has high stakes for U.S. farmers and its competitors, analysts say. Food stamp stigma fading fast   UPI / 7:44AM WASHINGTON, Nov. 29 (UPI) -- The stigma of food stamps is fading amid record use of the U.S. nutrition program, which now feeds more than 36 million people, officials said.

Saturday, November 28 White House to shame mortgage companies   UPI / 11:44PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 28 (UPI) -- The Obama administration plans to use shame and delays in financial incentives to get U.S. banks to help more homeowners, government officials said. Big public holiday parties out this year   UPI / 3:05PM LONDON, Nov. 28 (UPI) -- London party planners say they are being hit hard this year because banks and other major companies aren't throwing lavish staff holiday parties. Murdoch's son sells News Corp. shares   UPI / 1:44PM SYDNEY, Nov. 28 (UPI) -- Lachlan Murdoch, son of News Corp. Chairman Rupert Murdoch, sold half of his stake in the company, business filings show. Indian automaker Tata posts 3Q profit   UPI / 9:04AM NEW DELHI, Nov. 28 (UPI) -- Tata Motors Ltd., India's largest automaker, says it has posted a third-quarter profit after selling more vehicles and cutting costs. Black Friday shoppers numerous, cautious   UPI / 9:04AM BATAVIA, Ill., Nov. 28 (UPI) -- Anecdotal evidence suggests that crowds of U.S. Black Friday shoppers were bigger than last year, but many of them spoke of caution, analysts said. Farmers' crisis hotlines heating up   UPI / 8:14AM HOUSTON, Minn., Nov. 28 (UPI) -- Crisis hotlines set up for struggling U.S. farmers are ringing much like they did during the wave of farm foreclosures in the 1980s, advocates say.

Friday, November 27 Newspaper stops publication after one week   UPI / 7:24PM DETROIT, Nov. 27 (UPI) -- A new Detroit daily newspaper has suspended publication after just one week, it announced Friday. Crude oil prices tumble on Dubai news   UPI / 4:24PM NEW YORK, Nov. 27 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices per barrel ended lower Friday, closing out the short week at $76.05, down $1.91, or 2.4 percent, on the New York Mercantile Exchange. Toyota to make new brake system standard   UPI / 3:44PM TORRANCE, Calif., Nov. 27 (UPI) -- Toyota Motor Corp. said it would make engine override brake systems standard following the recall of 3.8 million vehicles -- it's largest ever recall. Canadians take shine to U.S. Black Friday   UPI / 3:24PM TORONTO, Nov. 27 (UPI) -- The post-U.S. Thanksgiving shopping frenzy known as Black Friday is catching on among Canadian shoppers keen on finding Christmas bargains, analysts say. Flatulent pig source of 'gas leak'   UPI / 2:54PM AXEDALE, Australia, Nov. 27 (UPI) -- Firefighters who responded to an Australian farmer's report of a gas leak discovered the source of the gas was his children's pet pig. Dubai debt impacting British banks   UPI / 2:24PM LONDON, Nov. 27 (UPI) -- British Prime Minister Gordon Brown said British banks should survive losses caused by a Middle East development company defaulting on $80 billion in debt. Wal-Mart Canada wins union battle   UPI / 2:14PM OTTAWA, Nov. 27 (UPI) -- Wal-Mart Canada was within its rights to close a Quebec store after its workers voted to unionize, Canada's Supreme Court ruled Friday. Ford, Geely reach key agreement on Volvo   UPI / 1:35PM BEIJING, Nov. 27 (UPI) -- U.S. automaker Ford Motor Co. and Geely reached a key agreement in negotiations for the Chinese automaker to acquire the Volvo brand, a Geely spokesman said. Decision on fish dumping postponed   UPI / 1:14PM BRUSSELS, Nov. 27 (UPI) -- A decision on amending the controversial fishery policy of the European Union has been postponed until early 2010, EU officials say. Blue Marble Family Farm milk suspect   UPI / 12:44PM MADISON, Wis., Nov. 27 (UPI) -- Blue Marble Family Farm milk, distributed primarily in Wisconsin, should be discarded because it may not have been fully pasteurized, state officials said. Minister says GM must find Saab buyer   UPI / 12:44PM STOCKHOLM, Sweden, Nov. 27 (UPI) -- Swedish Enterprise Minister Maud Olofsson said General Motors Co. should be responsible for finding a buyer for Saab, not the Swedish government. La Presse workers make labor concessions   UPI / 12:24PM MONTREAL, Nov. 27 (UPI) -- Some 550 unionized workers at the French-language daily La Presse in Montreal agreed to concessions to avoid losing their jobs. Shoppers using phones to find bargains   UPI / 10:14AM WASHINGTON, Nov. 27 (UPI) -- Some 39 percent of Americans aged 18 to 29 will use mobile devices to locate the best bargains this holiday shopping season, a U.S. survey indicates. Black Friday kicks off holiday shopping   UPI / 8:14AM WASHINGTON, Nov. 27 (UPI) -- Shopping on Black Friday this year was predicted to be up, but any spending momentum may not last through this holiday shopping season, analysts said. Barak halts settlement building   UPI / 8:04AM JERUSALEM, Nov. 27 (UPI) -- Defense Minister Ehud Barak has suspended construction permits for West Bank settlements, officials said. China colliery gas leak kills nine   UPI / 1:34AM BEIJING, Nov. 27 (UPI) -- A gas leak in a coal mine in China killed nine miners, less than a week after a coal mine blast at another site killed 107 people, authorities said. Last U.S. Pontiac rolls off the line   UPI / 12:34AM ORION, Mich., Nov. 27 (UPI) -- The end of an iconic U.S. brand came without fanfare as the last Pontiac emerged from a General Motors Co. assembly line in Michigan.

Thursday, November 26 TV advertising making a comeback   UPI / 10:54PM LOS ANGELES, Nov. 26 (UPI) -- The U.S. television industry is starting to come back from an advertising revenue slump dating back almost two years, industry analysts said. Lawyer: Couple didn't 'crash' state dinner   UPI / 7:24PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 26 (UPI) -- A Virginia couple who apparently intruded at a White House state dinner did not "crash" the event, their lawyer said through a publicist Thursday. Heritage turkeys gobbled up at $10 a pound   UPI / 7:14PM ALAMEDA, Calif., Nov. 26 (UPI) -- Gourmet "heritage turkeys" costing $100 or more remain a popular U.S. Thanksgiving niche, even in tough economic times, farmers say. U.S. retailers break Thanksgiving taboo   UPI / 4:04PM YONKERS, N.Y., Nov. 26 (UPI) -- Major U.S. retailers broke a taboo and were open on Thanksgiving Thursday, a day before the official Black Friday start of holiday shopping. Garlic run smells like speculative bubble   UPI / 3:34PM JINAN, China, Nov. 26 (UPI) -- Garlic is China's best-performing asset, 15 times more valuable than in March, in part because people think it cures swine flu, analysts say. Canadian gold miners fight foreign bill   UPI / 9:34AM OTTAWA, Nov. 26 (UPI) -- Three Canadian gold mining companies are battling a parliamentary bill that would restrict work in countries with poor environmental or human rights records. China calls U.S. tariffs discriminatory   UPI / 7:05AM BEIJING, Nov. 26 (UPI) -- China says the U.S. Commerce Department's decision to levy an average of about 13.7 percent anti-subsidy tariffs on its oil well pipes is "discriminatory."

Wednesday, November 25 Kidnapped journalists freed in Somalia   UPI / 8:24PM MOGADISHU, Somalia, Nov. 25 (UPI) -- A Canadian journalist said Wednesday she thinks the men who kidnapped her and an Australian photographer in Somalia were in it for the money. Getting around flood-ravaged Cumbria tough   UPI / 6:05PM WORKINGTON, England, Nov. 25 (UPI) -- Getting around northwestern England remained a headache Wednesday as more bridges were closed to check for damage from last week's floods. Crude oil prices rebound slightly   UPI / 5:24PM NEW YORK, Nov. 25 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices made up for ground lost Tuesday and added some on the New York Mercantile Exchange, climbing to nearly $78 per barrel Wednesday. Amazon vs. Wal-Mart this Christmas   UPI / 2:54PM BENTONVILLE, Ark., Nov. 25 (UPI) -- Wal-Mart, the biggest U.S. retailer, and Amazon.com, the biggest online retailer, are entering the Christmas season locked in a price war. BAIC pondering bid for part of troubled carmaker Saab   AP / 1:34PM Nov. 25--Chinese carmaker BAIC, part of a group that abandoned its plan to buy Saab, was today considering a bid for part of the loss-making Swedish firm. Somali militants ban U.N. food imports   UPI / 1:14PM MOGADISHU, Somalia, Nov. 25 (UPI) -- The Islamic militant group that controls large parts of Somalia says the United Nations' World Food Program must stop importing food into its territory. New homes sales rose in October   UPI / 12:44PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 25 (UPI) -- U.S. new home sales rose 6.2 percent in October after dropping a month ago, the Commerce Department said Wednesday. 'Robin Hood' banker sentence suspended   UPI / 11:54AM BONN, Germany, Nov. 25 (UPI) -- A German banker has drawn a suspended sentence for transferring $11.5 million from wealthy account holders to those of poorer ones, her attorney says. Toyota to replace 3.8M gas pedals   UPI / 10:14AM WASHINGTON, Nov. 25 (UPI) -- Japanese automaker Toyota Motor Corp. said it would install new gas pedals on 4 million vehicles as the original pedals can become entangled with floor mats. British high court fee ruling favors banks   UPI / 10:14AM LONDON, Nov. 25 (UPI) -- British banks won big when the country's Supreme Court ruled the Office of Fair Trading overreached in trying to rein in overdraft fees. Missing Canadian Mint gold not theft   UPI / 8:44AM OTTAWA, Nov. 25 (UPI) -- The Royal Canadian Mounted Police say more than $15 million worth of gold missing from Canada's mint in Ottawa was not stolen. Saab's future is back in GM's hands   UPI / 8:44AM DETROIT, Nov. 25 (UPI) -- General Motors Co. said it could decide within a week whether or not to abandon Saab, the Swedish brand that lost a buyer Tuesday.

Tuesday, November 24 USDA: Food aid participation varies   UPI / 11:54PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 24 (UPI) -- Participation in government food assistance programs varies widely among states, the U.S. Department of Agriculture said Tuesday. 7-alarm fire hits Dallas construction site   UPI / 9:14PM DALLAS, Nov. 24 (UPI) -- Seven firefighters were injured in a seven-alarm fire in a under-construction Dallas apartment complex, a fire-rescue spokesman said. Rustlers make off with hundreds of cattle   UPI / 8:05PM VALE, Ore., Nov. 24 (UPI) -- Investigators say they believe one group of thieves is responsible for taking hundreds of cattle in southeast Oregon and neighboring areas in Idaho and Nevada. Washington Post shuts domestic bureaus   UPI / 8:05PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 24 (UPI) -- The Washington Post announced Tuesday it is shutting down its bureaus in New York, Los Angeles and Chicago, its last three outposts in the United States. Grain futures mixed Tuesday   UPI / 7:14PM CHICAGO, Nov. 24 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed mixed on the Chicago Board of Trade Tuesday as the dollar rose against the euro, but dropped against the yen. Jury convicts Miami pastor, wife of fraud   UPI / 3:34PM MIAMI, Nov. 24 (UPI) -- A Miami-area minister and his wife were convicted for their participation in a $7 million scheme involving money laundering and mortgage fraud. California headed for housing permit low   UPI / 3:34PM SACRAMENTO, Nov. 24 (UPI) -- California housing permits are headed for a record low with permits for 36,000 housing units forecast for the year, a state building group said. Police: Ky. census worker killed himself   UPI / 3:05PM LEXINGTON, Ky., Nov. 24 (UPI) -- A U.S. census worker found dead in Kentucky tried to fake a homicide while actually taking his own life, investigators said Tuesday. Lending dropped sharply in third quarter   UPI / 2:44PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 24 (UPI) -- The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. said Tuesday U.S. bank lending had declined for the fifth consecutive quarter July through September. Retail sales flat week before Black Friday   UPI / 2:24PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 24 (UPI) -- Retail sales in the United States were flat in the week ending Nov. 21, the International Council of Shopping Centers-USB reported Tuesday. Holy Land USA in Va. to be sold   UPI / 2:05PM LYNCHBURG, Va., Nov. 24 (UPI) -- The non-profit group that operated Holy Land USA in Virginia for the past two years has closed the biblical tourist attraction and says it plans to sell it. Manufacturing flat in Central Atlantic   UPI / 1:54PM RICHMOND, Va., Nov. 24 (UPI) -- The Richmond Federal Reserve Bank said manufacturing activity was positive, but lower in November in the Central Atlantic states compared with October. Insurance fund for bank deposits turns red   UPI / 1:05PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 24 (UPI) -- An increase in U.S. bank failures put the federal fund that guarantees consumer deposits in the red in the third quarter, a report released Tuesday said. Two in custody linked to Mumbai attacks   UPI / 12:54PM CHICAGO, Nov. 24 (UPI) -- Two men in custody in Chicago are being investigated for possible links to last year's terrorist attacks in Mumbai, a source says. Heinz profits down, but expectations up   AP / 12:35PM Nov. 24--The H.J. Heinz Co. posted a net profit of $231.4 million in the second quarter, down from $276.7 million in the same period a year ago, as currency issues produced a drag on results. GM loses buyer for Saab   UPI / 12:35PM DETROIT, Nov. 24 (UPI) -- General Motors Co. said Tuesday a Swedish buyer lined up to purchase Saab Automobiles had backed out of the deal. Home price declines slowed in quarter   UPI / 10:54AM NEW YORK, Nov. 24 (UPI) -- The S&P/Case-Shiller price index said U.S. home prices fell 8.9 percent in the third quarter from a year ago, but is showing signs of improvement. Remains are U.N. worker missing 24 years   UPI / 8:44AM BEIRUT, Lebanon, Nov. 24 (UPI) -- Remains found in eastern Lebanon have been identified as those of a U.N. worker missing for 24 years, U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said.

Monday, November 23 U.S. harvests on track, except for corn   UPI / 6:05PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 23 (UPI) -- The U.S. corn harvest remains significantly behind the five-year average for the crop with 68 percent of the harvest done, the Department of Agriculture said. Chinese drywall linked to corrosion   UPI / 5:44PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 23 (UPI) -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission said Monday it had established a link between Chinese drywall and corrosion of wiring and plumbing components. Grain futures close lower Monday   UPI / 5:24PM CHICAGO, Nov. 23 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed lower on the Chicago Board of Trade Monday despite a weekend rally in oil prices and a strong opening to the week on Wall Street. Feds: ?Strong association? between Chinese drywall and corrosion, sulfuric gases   AP / 4:34PM Nov. 23--MANATEE -- Federal officials said today they have found "a strong association" between contaminated Chinese drywall and reports of sulfuric gases and metal corrosion in homes. Home sale spike continues   UPI / 3:35PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 23 (UPI) -- Sales of existing U.S. homes jumped 10.1 percent in October, continuing a seven-month upswing, the National Association of Realtors said Monday. Black Wednesday? Retailers extend deals   UPI / 1:54PM NEW YORK, Nov. 23 (UPI) -- Black Friday may not be confined to Friday anymore, as some U.S. retailers said sales would begin before Thanksgiving to make up for a slow economy. Court overturns lawnmower conviction   UPI / 1:24PM ATLANTA, Nov. 23 (UPI) -- The Georgia Supreme Court Monday reversed the conviction of a man sentenced to 10 years for stealing a riding lawnmower. Mint hired PR firm in missing gold scandal   UPI / 12:24PM OTTAWA, Nov. 23 (UPI) -- The Royal Canadian Mint hired a high-powered public relations firm to control the media fallout as word of missing gold leaked out, documents indicate. Animal parts used to create other products   UPI / 11:54AM ALEXANDRIA, Va., Nov. 23 (UPI) -- A National Renderers Association official said U.S. companies are using leftover animal parts to create renewable products such as diesel fuel and plastics. Canadian reporter defends accused brother   UPI / 11:44AM OTTAWA, Nov. 23 (UPI) -- The brother of a Canadian man jailed in Chicago for alleged involvement in a plot to attack a Danish newspaper says Tahawwur Hussain Rana is innocent. Ahmadinejad visits Brazil   UPI / 8:14AM BRASILIA, Brazil, Nov. 23 (UPI) -- Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad says Iran, Brazil and Venezuela can be part of a new world order.

Sunday, November 22 China mine blast death toll rises to 104   UPI / 11:44PM BEIJING, Nov. 22 (UPI) -- Chinese rescue teams worked frantically Monday to save four workers trapped in a mine after an explosion that killed 104 miners, authorities said. Toy shoppers may find holiday shortages   UPI / 7:05PM MILWAUKEE, Nov. 22 (UPI) -- Shoppers hoping to find that toy the kids have been clamoring for might want to start their shopping a little early, as inventories are down, analysts say. Ford exec: Profit shows turnaround   UPI / 5:14PM DEARBORN, Mich., Nov. 22 (UPI) -- Ford Motor Co.'s third-quarter profit is evidence the U.S. automaker is successfully turning its fortunes around, a top executive says. McConnell: Healthcare bill a 'job killer'   UPI / 3:35PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 22 (UPI) -- The healthcare reform bill now before the U.S. Senate is a "job killer," Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky said Sunday. Nelson: Can't support 'public option'   UPI / 1:44PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 22 (UPI) -- Passage of U.S. healthcare reforms in the Senate will hinge on how a "public option" provision is written, a centrist Democratic senator says. Schumer: Votes there to pass public option   UPI / 1:24PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 22 (UPI) -- Efforts to establish a government-run "public option" health insurance measure can pass the U.S. Senate, a senior Democrat said Sunday. Mubarak, Peres spar on peace issues   UPI / 10:44AM CAIRO, Nov. 22 (UPI) -- Israel will anger all Muslims if it does not stop building on confiscated Palestinian land, Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak said Sunday. Spanish farmers march on capital   UPI / 9:14AM MADRID, Nov. 22 (UPI) -- An estimated 100,000 Spanish farmers marched on the capital in Madrid to protest high costs and a low-profit margin, officials said.

Saturday, November 21 Senate moves healthcare bill to floor   UPI / 11:04PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 21 (UPI) -- The U.S. Senate voted Saturday to begin floor debate on an $848 billion healthcare bill backers say would extend coverage to 31 million uninsured Americans. GOP: Senate health bill to raise premiums   UPI / 1:14PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 21 (UPI) -- Democratic healthcare reform proposals will mean higher premiums and higher healthcare costs, a Republican U.S. senator said Saturday. Report: Hershey readies bid for Cadbury   UPI / 10:14AM NEW YORK, Nov. 21 (UPI) -- U.S. chocolate giant Hershey is considering launching a bid for control of British counterpart Cadbury, The New York Times reported Saturday. Lawyer: Many homeowners should walk away   UPI / 1:54AM TUCSON, Nov. 21 (UPI) -- A law professor says many U.S. homeowners should embrace foreclosure instead of fighting it.

Friday, November 20 Bernanke confirmation hearing to be Dec. 3   UPI / 10:44PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 20 (UPI) -- The U.S. Senate Banking Committee said Friday Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke will appear before it Dec. 3 for a confirmation hearing. Grain futures mixed Friday   UPI / 4:54PM CHICAGO, Nov. 20 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed mixed on the Chicago Board of Trade Friday as Wall Street equities spent the entire day in negative territory. Crude oil prices slide Friday   UPI / 4:05PM NEW YORK, Nov. 20 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices dipped below $77 per barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange as declines in equity markets hinted at slow demand. Carjacking brings debt to victim   UPI / 3:54PM ROSELLE, Ill., Nov. 20 (UPI) -- An Illinois woman whose car was stolen and totaled by an escaped suspect says she is facing thousands of dollars of debt from the incident. ID chips added to pigs in China   UPI / 3:14PM CHENGDU, China, Nov. 20 (UPI) -- A city official in Chengdu, China, said Friday that pigs are being tagged with identification chips to provide the public and officials with data. Study: Michigan turnaround in late 2011   UPI / 2:44PM LANSING, Mich., Nov. 20 (UPI) -- University of Michigan economists said Michigan, with the highest unemployment rate in the nation, should see a slight resurgence in late 2011. House panel approves Fed audits   UPI / 12:54PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 20 (UPI) -- A congressional panel approved a bill that would put the traditionally independent U.S. Federal Reserve under closer scrutiny of politicians. Delinquencies top second quarter record   UPI / 9:44AM WASHINGTON, Nov. 20 (UPI) -- The Mortgage Bankers Association said nearly 10 percent of U.S. homeowners were one payment or more behind on their mortgage payments.

Thursday, November 19 S. Korea says no to FTA renegotiation   UPI / 10:54PM SEOUL, Nov. 19 (UPI) -- The June 2007 South Korea-U.S. free trade agreement cannot be renegotiated, a South Korean presidential official said Friday. No healthcare reform said 'greatest risk'   UPI / 10:54PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 19 (UPI) -- Healthcare reform measures in Congress would rein in costs, reduce the deficit and improve care, the director of the U.S. Office of Management and Budget says. Senate may hold key healthcare vote soon   UPI / 10:05PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 19 (UPI) -- A critical procedural vote on bringing the U.S. Senate healthcare plan to the floor is likely to come Saturday, Majority Leader Harry Reid said Thursday. Grain futures close mixed   UPI / 6:34PM CHICAGO, Nov. 19 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed mixed on the Chicago Board of Trade Thursday as equities dropped and oil prices fell due to concerns of slow demand. Judge: Farm must track drugs in livestock   UPI / 6:14PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 19 (UPI) -- A Maryland farm must identify and track animals treated with drugs before selling the livestock for slaughter for human consumption, a federal judge ruled. Geithner press Joint Committee for reforms   UPI / 4:04PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 19 (UPI) -- U.S. Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner pressed lawmakers in Washington Thursday to stay the course on regulatory reform for the financial system. Verdict costs Polish families their home   UPI / 4:04PM SZCZYTNO, Poland, Nov. 19 (UPI) -- A district court in Poland ruled in favor of a German woman in a restitution case, meaning two Polish families must move from their home of more than 30 years. Republicans berate Geithner, call for him to resign   AP / 3:34PM WASHINGTON -- Like a boxer under siege, Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner on Thursday rebuffed calls from Republicans to resign and slugged it out with lawmakers over Obama administration economic policies. Lending up nominally in Britain,   UPI / 2:14PM LONDON, Nov. 19 (UPI) -- Lending in Britain rose 5 percent from September to October due to seasonal factors, not improved business conditions, a mortgage association said. Mid-Atlantic manufacturing up slightly   UPI / 2:05PM PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 19 (UPI) -- The Philadelphia Federal Reserve Bank said new manufacturing orders and shipments improved in the mid-Atlantic region, the most recent survey indicates. Court lets ex-student off $50K loan hook   UPI / 2:05PM HALIFAX, Nova Scotia, Nov. 19 (UPI) -- A Canadian bankruptcy court ruled a Nova Scotia ex-student with bank loans worth $50,000 doesn't have to pay it back as the bank wasn't wise in issuing them. Mortgage loan rates near or at record lows   UPI / 12:24PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 19 (UPI) -- Interest rates for fixed-rate mortgage loans fell this week to near or below historic levels, the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. said Thursday. October retail rose modestly in Britain   UPI / 11:24AM LONDON, Nov. 19 (UPI) -- The value of retail sales in Britain rose 0.3 percent in October compared to October 2008, the Office of National Statistics said Thursday. EU chides Israel on planned construction   UPI / 9:54AM BRUSSELS, Nov. 19 (UPI) -- Israel's decision to expand settlements in East Jerusalem in the face of international criticism also drew a sharp rebuke from the European Union.

Wednesday, November 18 Grain futures close lower Wednesday   UPI / 4:35PM CHICAGO, Nov. 18 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed lower on the Chicago Board of Trade Wednesday as oil prices held even and gold prices topped $1,150 per ounce. Calif. warns retailers on toys with lead   UPI / 3:24PM SACRAMENTO, Nov. 18 (UPI) -- Six major retailers have been warned by California Attorney General Jerry Brown about lead levels in toys, state officials said. Winner's circle shrinks in safe car tests   UPI / 3:05PM ARLINGTON, Va., Nov. 18 (UPI) -- A new test for rollover safety whittled the list of winners in an annual car safety survey from 94 to 19, a U.S. insurance group said. Afghan minister hit with bribe allegations   UPI / 2:54PM KABUL, Afghanistan, Nov. 18 (UPI) -- Afghanistan's mining minister allegedly accepted a $30 million bribe to award a major contract to a Chinese company, an unnamed U.S. official says. Fed official: Expect low interest rates   UPI / 2:35PM ST. LOUIS, Nov. 18 (UPI) -- St. Louis Federal Reserve Bank President James Bullard suggested Wednesday the U.S. central bank could keep interest rates unchanged until 2012. Overflowing gas tank caused P.R. fire   UPI / 1:34PM BAYAMON, Puerto Rico, Nov. 18 (UPI) -- An unnoticed overflowing gasoline storage tank led to a massive fire at a Puerto Rican storage facility last month, investigators say. Mortgage activity down slightly   UPI / 1:24PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 18 (UPI) -- The volume of applications for U.S. mortgages decreased last week, falling by a seasonally adjusted 2.5 percent, an industry group said. Pumpkin shortage imperils holiday pies   UPI / 12:35PM LOS ANGELES, Nov. 18 (UPI) -- Heavy Midwestern rains have destroyed much of the U.S. pumpkin crop, putting pumpkin pies in short supply on supermarket shelves, a major supplier says. October housing starts dropped sharply   UPI / 12:24PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 18 (UPI) -- Privately owned housing starts fell sharply in October, declining despite predictions the number would rise, the U.S. Commerce Department said Wednesday. Scotland on slow recovery track   UPI / 12:24PM GLASGOW, Scotland, Nov. 18 (UPI) -- A Scottish economics professor said the economy would recover slower in Scotland than the rest of Britain because of troubles in the financial sector. Obama warns Israel on building settlements   UPI / 11:34AM BEIJING, Nov. 18 (UPI) -- U.S. President Barack Obama warned Israel that its decision to build new settlements in a Palestinian area won't help Middle East peace efforts. U.N. report: Global warming risk to women   UPI / 10:14AM LONDON, Nov. 18 (UPI) -- A United Nations report warns that women will bear the brunt of global climate change since a large share of women rely on agriculture for their livelihoods.

Tuesday, November 17 Goldman Sachs looks to bail out its image   UPI / 6:24PM NEW YORK, Nov. 17 (UPI) -- New York financial giant Goldman Sachs, with profits soaring, said it would spend $500 million over five years in a goodwill gesture to small businesses. NYPD raids papers amid corruption charges   UPI / 4:54PM NEW YORK, Nov. 17 (UPI) -- New York City police raided three newspaper offices Tuesday in an investigation of corruption allegations within a paper delivery union, police said. Grain futures close mixed Tuesday   UPI / 4:54PM CHICAGO, Nov. 17 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed mixed Tuesday on the Chicago Board of Trade as the dollar made gains against the euro and the yen. Michigan board approves tax breaks for GM   UPI / 3:24PM DETROIT, Nov. 17 (UPI) -- A development board in Michigan approved of new tax breaks for General Motors Co., to entice the automaker into keeping its headquarters in Detroit. Pope: Global hunger pushes out opulence   UPI / 1:44PM ROME, Nov. 17 (UPI) -- Hunger is so rampant in the world that countries' displays of opulence are unacceptable, Pope Benedict XVI told a food security summit in Rome Tuesday. Fed proposes rule changes for gift cards   UPI / 1:14PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 17 (UPI) -- The U.S. Federal Reserve Board posted notice that it was proposing to change rules on retail gift cards to restrict fee or expiration date abuses. EU warned of possible winter gas shortage   UPI / 1:05PM BRUSSELS, Nov. 17 (UPI) -- A natural gas shortage could be in the offing for European Union countries, despite a deal with Russia to prevent sudden energy cutoffs, a Slovak official says. Poll: U.S. deeply divided on healthcare   UPI / 12:24PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 17 (UPI) -- U.S. residents are deeply divided over efforts in Congress to reform the country's healthcare system, a poll indicated Tuesday. Industrial output flat in October   UPI / 11:44AM WASHINGTON, Nov. 17 (UPI) -- U.S. industrial production rose 0.1 percent in October, following a gain of 0.7 percent in September, the Federal Reserve said Tuesday. $5.1 billion in TARP funds at risk   UPI / 11:14AM WASHINGTON, Nov. 17 (UPI) -- Financial regulators say about $5.1 billion in Troubled Asset Relief Program funds are in the hands of banks that have failed or may fail soon. 14K come clean about off-shore accounts   UPI / 11:05AM WASHINGTON, Nov. 17 (UPI) -- More than 14,000 taxpayers voluntarily reported previously undisclosed off-shore accounts in an amnesty program, the U.S. Justice Department said Tuesday. GMAC CEO de Molina resigns: Board picks Carpenter to replace executive based in Charlotte.   AP / 9:34AM Nov. 17--Al de Molina, the Charlotte-based chief executive of GMAC Financial Services, resigned Monday, jolting a company that had been expanding operations in his home city. $5.1 billlion in TARP funds at risk   UPI / 9:24AM WASHINGTON, Nov. 17 (UPI) -- Financial regulators say about $5.1 billion in Troubled Asset Relief Program funds are in the hands of banks that have failed or may fail soon.

Monday, November 16 Grain futures close higher Monday   UPI / 6:54PM CHICAGO, Nov. 16 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed higher on the Chicago Board of Trade Monday as the dollar weakened against the euro and the yen. Bank of Russia poised to purchase gold   UPI / 6:14PM MOSCOW, Nov. 16 (UPI) -- A Bank of Russia spokesman said the central bank was ready to buy whatever gold the State Depository for Precious Metals and Gems has for sale. Bernanke sees constrained growth ahead   UPI / 5:44PM NEW YORK, Nov. 16 (UPI) -- U.S. Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke said the economic recovery was on solid enough ground to continue through 2010 with modest gains in employment. Atlanta gay, lesbian newspaper closes   UPI / 3:34PM ATLANTA, Nov. 16 (UPI) -- Southern Voice, an Atlanta gay and lesbian newspaper, has closed its doors after 21 years of publishing, its editor says. Reform measure to address bank size   UPI / 3:34PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 16 (UPI) -- The Financial Services Forum, a lobby group, has said it opposes an effort to give the U.S. government permission to break up large firms. Economic bloggers take Treasury field trip   UPI / 2:44PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 16 (UPI) -- Financial bloggers said an invitation to meet U.S. Treasury officials took the inkless writers by surprise and had some influence. New York manufacturing shows slower gains   UPI / 2:44PM NEW YORK, Nov. 16 (UPI) -- The New York Federal Reserve said state manufacturing conditions reflected in a monthly survey rose in November but showed slower growth than a month ago. Tuna quota disappoints conservationists   UPI / 2:05PM RECIFE, Brazil, Nov. 16 (UPI) -- Conservation groups said lower quotas for Atlantic tuna fishing set in a meeting in Brazil would encourage illegal fishing and diminish long-term gains. N.H. turkey grower cuts back on birds   UPI / 1:24PM SANBORNTON, N.H., Nov. 16 (UPI) -- A world-famous New Hampshire turkey farmer says she has raised fewer birds this year to make sure they're all sold. CIT Group showed early signs of trouble   UPI / 12:54PM NEW YORK, Nov. 16 (UPI) -- Business analysts said the U.S. bailout package given CIT Group was money thrown after a lost cause, despite the lender's role in the financial system. Ban links food security, climate change   UPI / 12:35PM ROME, Nov. 16 (UPI) -- A comprehensive plan to combat threats to global food security was presented Monday during a U.N.-sponsored food security summit in Rome. GM loses $1.2B, but adds to reserves   UPI / 11:54AM DETROIT, Nov. 16 (UPI) -- U.S. automotive giant General Motors said it lost $1.2 billion in the quarter it emerged from bankruptcy but offset the negative by boosting cash reserves. Retail beat expectations in October   UPI / 10:54AM WASHINGTON, Nov. 16 (UPI) -- Retail sales rose more than expected in October from September, although sales were down from a year ago, the U.S. Commerce Department said Wednesday. Reid mulls Medicare tax on wealthy   UPI / 9:14AM WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 (UPI) -- U.S. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid is considering raising Medicare taxes on high-wage earners as a healthcare funding source, Capitol Hill insiders said. GM said set to start repaying U.S. loan   UPI / 12:14AM WASHINGTON, Nov. 16 (UPI) -- U.S. auto giant General Motors Co. is set to announce it will start repaying $6.7 billion it borrowed from the federal government, The Washington Post reported.

Sunday, November 15 New law bars genetic info discrimination   UPI / 7:44PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 (UPI) -- A U.S. law set to take effect next weekend bars employers from requesting or using genetic background information in hiring, firing or promotions, lawyers said. NE states lose crops; farmers seek relief   UPI / 2:54PM WASHINGTON, Conn., Nov. 15 (UPI) -- Farms in New York, Connecticut and New Jersey took an economic hit this year, due to unseasonably cold and wet weather, a Farm Service Agency official said. Explosion at Indiana plant causes injuries   UPI / 2:14PM PORTAGE, Ind., Nov. 15 (UPI) -- Authorities in Porter County, Ind., said an explosion at a Beta Steel Corp. plant resulted in injuries to an undetermined number of individuals.

Saturday, November 14 Sanford's wife wants to trademark her name   UPI / 7:44PM COLUMBIA, S.C., Nov. 14 (UPI) -- Jenny Sanford, whose husband, South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford, admitted to an affair in June, has filed an application to trademark her name, documents show. Journalist slayings bring declaration   UPI / 7:34PM MEXICO CITY, Nov. 14 (UPI) -- International broadcasters are calling for sustained, concrete global action to address the murder of journalists in peacetime and in war, officials say. Pope to address food security summit   UPI / 2:44PM VATICAN CITY, Italy, Nov. 14 (UPI) -- Pope Benedict XVI is to call for global cooperation in addressing hunger when he speaks at the World Summit on Food Security in Rome, the Vatican said. Local banks brace for FDIC assessment: Group that insures depositors' savings approves plan that mandates banks prepay millions in premiums   AP / 1:34PM Nov. 14--Savannah bankers will kiss more than 2009 goodbye come New Year's Eve. Shrimpers, processors do battle   UPI / 10:05AM DULAC, La., Nov. 14 (UPI) -- U.S. shrimpers and their processors are sniping at each other as the industry faces growing pressures, analysts say. Regulators shut down Century, Orion banks: Closures affect 4 Manatee branches   AP / 4:34AM Nov. 14--MANATEE -- Yet two more Florida banks, including a local one, have fallen victim to the rough economic times. First-time homebuyers driving recovery   UPI / 2:44AM CHICAGO, Nov. 14 (UPI) -- First-time homebuyers purchased 47 percent of the homes sold in the past year, the National Association of Realtors said Friday.

Friday, November 13 FDA requires proof of safety for alcoholic energy drinks   AP / 9:34PM WASHINGTON -- Alcoholic energy drinks, marketed under provocative names such as Evil Eye, Max Fury and Slingshot Party Gel, have quickly gained a foothold among younger drinkers. Wind energy companies looking for lines   UPI / 9:14PM DES MOINES, Iowa, Nov. 13 (UPI) -- Proposed multistate transmission lines carrying wind-generated electricity from the Midwest are a vital next step in U.S. energy efforts, experts say. 2 Madoff programmers arrested   AP / 6:34PM Two former computer programmers for Bernard Madoff's New York investment company were charged Friday with helping cover up his Ponzi scheme. Crude oil prices lose for 2nd month   UPI / 5:54PM NEW YORK, Nov. 13 (UPI) -- U.S. crude oil futures finished lower Friday, losing 1.4 percent for the week, after a weak gauge of consumer sentiment and news of rising crude supplies. Guilty verdict in Agriprocessors case   UPI / 4:34PM SIOUX FALLS, S.D., Nov. 13 (UPI) -- A jury found a former Agriprocessors Inc. executive guilty on 86 felony fraud counts related to sales records at the meat company's plant in Postville, Iowa. U.S., EU data sharing deal likely delayed   UPI / 1:34PM BRUSSELS, Nov. 13 (UPI) -- Four members of the European Union are opposing a deal to share bank data with the United States for anti-terrorist investigations, citing privacy issues. New car sales edge up in Canada   UPI / 11:54AM OTTAWA, Nov. 13 (UPI) -- New vehicle sales in Canada rose 1.2 percent to 128,415 units in September, led by North American-built passenger cars, Statistics Canada said Friday. Herd of reindeer drowns in Swedish river   UPI / 11:34AM LULEA, Sweden, Nov. 13 (UPI) -- A herd of more than 400 reindeer drowned Friday in a river in Jokkmokk, Sweden, after the thin ice on the river's surface gave way, a local official said. Georgia has most trusted media in Caucasus   UPI / 11:14AM TBILISI, Georgia, Nov. 13 (UPI) -- The news media in the European nation of Georgia is more trusted than outlets in neighboring countries, a survey by the Caucasus Research Resource Center says. Reid mulls Medicare tax on wealthy   UPI / 9:24AM WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 (UPI) -- U.S. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid is considering raising Medicare taxes on high-wage earners as a healthcare funding source, Capitol Hill insiders said. Luxury homes shrink in new market   UPI / 9:14AM SMYRNA, Ga., Nov. 13 (UPI) -- U.S. luxury home builders say they are building smaller homes, as the recession has pared down the American Dream by at least a walk-in closet or two. An apology from Jaycee's alleged abductor   UPI / 8:24AM SACRAMENTO, Nov. 13 (UPI) -- A man accused of kidnapping and raping an 11-year-old, and holding her captive for 18 years, has issued an apology, a TV station says. Mexican villages fall to dams   UPI / 1:34AM MEXICO CITY, Nov. 13 (UPI) -- Several thousand people in more than 50 Mexican communities have lost or will lose their homes to dam construction in the next few years, officials said. Student paper ad link to supremacist site   UPI / 1:04AM HIGHLANDS HEIGHTS, Ky., Nov. 13 (UPI) -- The editor in chief of the Northern Kentucky University student newspaper has apologized for running an ad for a Web site that sells white supremacist music.

Thursday, November 12 Obama announces forum on job creation   AP / 8:35PM WASHINGTON -- With economic and political concerns rising as the unemployment rate has broken double digits, President Barack Obama on Thursday announced he will hold a high-level forum at the White House in December to try to find new ways to reverse the job loss. One Canadian cow sells for $1.2 million   UPI / 6:06PM TORONTO, Nov. 12 (UPI) -- Missy the cow brought in $1.2 million at auction in Toronto, the second most ever paid for a single bovine in Canada, its breeder says. Grain futures mixed Thursday   UPI / 4:44PM CHICAGO, Nov. 12 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed mixed on the Chicago Board of Trade Thursday as the dollar gained against the euro and the yen and equities fell. Gates rips leaks on Afghanistan, Fort Hood   UPI / 4:14PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 12 (UPI) -- Defense Secretary Robert Gates Thursday criticized the rash of leaks regarding Afghanistan strategy deliberations and the Fort Hood, Texas, massacre. Fed changes overdraft rules   UPI / 3:14PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 12 (UPI) -- The U.S. Federal Reserve has closed the option for banks to charge overdrafts fees on two common transactions unless the consumer agrees to allow the fees. Mortgage rates drop in week   UPI / 2:24PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 12 (UPI) -- Interest rates for 30-year, fixed-rate U.S. mortgages fell to a five-week low in the week ending Nov. 12, the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. said Thursday. Mortgage activity up with rates mixed   UPI / 2:14PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 12 (UPI) -- The volume of applications for U.S. mortgages increased last week, rising by a seasonally adjusted 3.2 percent, an industry group said. RadioShack seeking new headquarters   UPI / 1:05PM FORT WORTH, Texas, Nov. 12 (UPI) -- Retail giant RadioShack is looking to move its headquarters, possibly outside its current hometown of Fort Worth, Texas, sources close to the company said. Lewis resignation caught board off guard   UPI / 11:04AM CHARLOTTE, N.C., Nov. 12 (UPI) -- The resignation of Bank of America's chief executive "clearly" caught the U.S. bank's board of directors off guard, investment advisers said. Foreclosure threat eases in Britain   UPI / 9:34AM LONDON, Nov. 12 (UPI) -- The Council of Mortgage Lenders said the fear of foreclosure in Britain had eased, predicting repossessions more than 35 percent lower than estimated earlier.

Wednesday, November 11 Crude oil holds near $79 per barrel   UPI / 5:35PM NEW YORK, Nov. 11 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices held above $79 per barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange Wednesday, as the dollar rose. Grains close mostly higher Wednesday   UPI / 5:24PM CHICAGO, Nov. 11 (UPI) -- U.S. grain futures closed mostly higher on the Chicago Board of Trade Wednesday as the dollar index rose 0.08 percent against major currencies. Bank error leads to sale of couple's home   UPI / 5:14PM PHOENIX, Nov. 11 (UPI) -- Chase officials have apologized for accidentally selling a Phoenix couple's home even though their modified mortgage payments were up to date. Prosecutors: Students paid witnesses   UPI / 5:04PM CHICAGO, Nov. 11 (UPI) -- Two witnesses said Illinois journalism students paid them to make statements the students hoped would cast doubt on a man's murder conviction, prosecutors said. Miners damage Great Wall in Mongolia   UPI / 3:54PM HOHHOT, China, Nov. 11 (UPI) -- Police in the Inner Mongolia region of China are investigating reports a gold mining operation damaged 328 feet of the historic Great Wall, officials said. Ford sales grow in Europe   UPI / 3:44PM DEARBORN, Mich., Nov. 11 (UPI) -- Ford Motor Co. said Wednesday its sales in 19 European markets grew 12.8 percent in October compared with a year ago. Fla. attorney faces new financial scandal   UPI / 2:44PM FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Nov. 11 (UPI) -- A high-flying Florida attorney, already accused of running a multimillion-dollar Ponzi scheme, is being probed in a separate, $57 million scam, sources say. Couple in canoe scam to repay $1M   UPI / 2:34PM LEEDS, England, Nov. 11 (UPI) -- The British couple imprisoned for faking the husband's death to cash in on his insurance have agreed to repay nearly $1 million, officials said Tuesday. Political heat gets hotter for Fed   UPI / 1:35PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 11 (UPI) -- The U.S. Federal Reserve is under political attack in part due to massive amounts of aid given to the financial sector, U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders said. Wet ethanol process yields more ethanol   UPI / 11:54AM CHAMPAIGN, Ill., Nov. 11 (UPI) -- U.S. researchers say they've determined using a so-called wet ethanol production process yields not only more ethanol, but also more usable co-products. Sinclair Oil to bow out of retail   UPI / 11:34AM SALT LAKE CITY, Nov. 11 (UPI) -- U.S. oil corporation Sinclair said it would exit the retail gasoline business, by early 2010 with the sale of its final 29 gas stations. Treasury: Homeowner help making progress   UPI / 8:44AM WASHINGTON, Nov. 11 (UPI) -- The U.S. Treasury said a fifth of eligible mortgage holders had received loan modifications as part of a government program to forestall foreclosures. Ag expert picked to lead USAID   UPI / 8:24AM WASHINGTON, Nov. 11 (UPI) -- A physician and agriculture expert was tapped to lead the U.S. Agency for International Development, ending a 10-month search to fill the foreign policy post.

Tuesday, November 10 Senate bill to overhaul financial regulation would strip Fed, FDIC of some powers   AP / 7:34PM WASHINGTON -- A key Senate committee chairman unveiled a sweeping 1,136-page bill Tuesday that, if enacted, would mandate the most comprehensive overhaul of financial regulation since the Great Depression. Report: Blackwater OK'd payments to Iraqis   UPI / 7:24PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 10 (UPI) -- Blackwater tried to buy the silence of Iraqi officials after the company's security guards fatally shot 17 Iraqi civilians, former company officials said. Jury acquits Bear Stearns managers   UPI / 6:54PM NEW YORK, Nov. 10 (UPI) -- A New York City jury said two Bear Stearns hedge fund managers were not guilty of fraud for concealing the weakness of the fund, which collapsed in 2008. Grain futures close mixed Tuesday   UPI / 5:54PM CHICAGO, Nov. 10 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed mixed on the Chicago Board of Trade as stocks fell flat on Wall Street and the dollar rose against the euro. Crude oil prices slide Tuesday   UPI / 5:54PM NEW YORK, Nov. 10 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices closed below $79 per barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange, as a once threatening storm dissipated in the Gulf of Mexico. Hike in workers' comp premiums rejected   UPI / 4:44PM SACRAMENTO, Nov. 10 (UPI) -- Steve Poizner, California insurance commissioner and a 2010 Republican candidate for governor, says he won't back an increase in workers' compensation premiums. Dodd presents financial regulatory bill   UPI / 4:35PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 10 (UPI) -- Sen. Christopher Dodd, D-Conn., Tuesday floated a bill that would restructure the U.S. regulatory system overseeing the complex financial services sector. Chrysler switches all-electric front runner   UPI / 2:05PM AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Nov. 10 (UPI) -- Chrysler Group said its Dodge Circuit sports car would no longer be the U.S. automaker's first all-electricity-powered vehicle. Retail sales slightly down in the week   UPI / 12:44PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 10 (UPI) -- Retail sales in the United States dropped slightly in the week ending Nov. 7, the International Council of Shopping Centers-USB reported Tuesday. Luxury retail heads for the Internet   UPI / 11:44AM NEW YORK, Nov. 10 (UPI) -- High-end British clothes maker Burberry, famous for trench coats, is establishing a presence on the Internet, a move increasingly popular among luxury brands. Lawmakers seek to speed up credit card law   UPI / 10:44AM WASHINGTON, Nov. 10 (UPI) -- Legislators in Washington are pursuing options to close the grace period lawmakers gave credit card companies when they passed the credit card law in May. Spurned Kraft Foods turns attention to Cadbury stockholders: Analysts believe shareholders of British company will get sweetened offer to consider   AP / 5:34AM Nov. 10--Now that Kraft Foods Inc. has made its formal offer for Cadbury PLC, and Cadbury quickly rejected it, the focus shifts to the target company's shareholders, who face a difficult decision.

Monday, November 9 Fed: Banks have raised needed capital   UPI / 6:34PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 9 (UPI) -- The Federal Reserve Board said Monday nine of the 10 U.S. bank holding companies needing to raise capital have met or exceeded their required capital buffers. Corn crop progress close to average   UPI / 5:24PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 9 (UPI) -- The U.S. corn crop's progress has nearly matched the crop's five-year average after an entire season of lagging, the U.S. Department of Agriculture said. Grain futures close higher   UPI / 5:05PM CHICAGO, Nov. 9 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed higher on the Chicago Board of Trade Monday, as the dollar split, fell against the euro and equities soared in New York. Michigan winning some job tug-o-wars   UPI / 4:54PM LANSING, Mich., Nov. 9 (UPI) -- Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm is finding some success tempting Massachusetts companies to relocate in the Great Lakes State, officials said. GM gives go ahead to Cadillac Converj   UPI / 4:34PM DETROIT, Nov. 9 (UPI) -- U.S. auto giant General Motors Co. has given the green light to production of an electric Cadillac called the Converj, sources close to the company said. Murdoch may have Google block searches   UPI / 2:14PM LONDON, Nov. 9 (UPI) -- Australian media mogul Rupert Murdoch said he would stop Google from sending random Internet users to his online news businesses. Nokia recalls millions of phone chargers   AP / 10:35AM Finnish phone maker Nokia said Monday it was recalling poorly made cell phone chargers due to an electric shock hazard, which could involve 14 million chargers. Nokia recalls millions of phone chargers   UPI / 10:14AM ESPOO, Finland, Nov. 9 (UPI) -- Finnish phone maker Nokia said Monday it was recalling poorly made cell phone chargers due to an electric shock hazard, which could involve 14 million chargers.

Sunday, November 8 GM still seeking Russia deal with Magna   UPI / 3:44PM DETROIT, Nov. 8 (UPI) -- U.S. automaker General Motors says it is pushing ahead with plans to work with Canadian parts supplier Magna International Inc. on a Russian production deal. OPINION: Brad Ellsworth ends the week back inside pro-lifers' circle   AP / 1:34PM Nov. 8--Think antiabortion rights politics is simple? Take a look at the week Rep. Brad Ellsworth had. Graham: House health bill 'dead' in Senate   UPI / 12:35PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 8 (UPI) -- The healthcare reform bill passed in the U.S. House of Representatives is "dead on arrival" in the Senate, a senior Republican said Sunday. SEPTA accord falls apart: Gov. Rendell, blaming union leaders, called for a rank-and-file vote. His demand was rejected.   AP / 10:34AM Nov. 8--A tentative agreement to end the strike by SEPTA workers collapsed in acrimony yesterday, leaving prospects slim for a quick resolution to the six-day walkout. House approves sweeping healthcare reform   UPI / 12:05AM WASHINGTON, Nov. 7 (UPI) -- The U.S. House Saturday night narrowly passed a sweeping overhaul of the healthcare system that backers say would provide coverage to almost all Americans.

Saturday, November 7 Union leaders set to vote on deal to end strike   AP / 1:35PM Nov. 7--SEPTA's union leadership will be voting at noon Saturday on a deal that could end the five-day strike that has been a regional transit nightmare. Tropical Storm Ida threatens Yucutan   UPI / 11:54AM MIAMI, Nov. 7 (UPI) -- Ida remained a tropical storm Saturday morning, but Mexican officials had the Yucatan Peninsula under a hurricane watch in case the storm strengthens. Wal-Mart prepares for Christmas price cuts   UPI / 9:34AM BENTONVILLE, Ark., Nov. 7 (UPI) -- Wal-Mart is preparing a round of Christmas-season price cuts that are making smaller U.S. competitors nervous, analysts say. Kim Jong Il visits new power plant   UPI / 9:34AM PYONGYANG, North Korea, Nov. 7 (UPI) -- North Korean leader Kim Jong Il has visited a new power plant and a farm in the south of the country, official media reported Saturday. Citigroup issues employees stock options   UPI / 8:34AM NEW YORK, Nov. 7 (UPI) -- The giant U.S. bank Citigroup says it is distributing stock options to its employees in a bid keep them on board at the bailed-out institution. Dem abortion foes to offer amendment   UPI / 6:54AM WASHINGTON, Nov. 7 (UPI) -- Anti-abortion Democrats are being given the opportunity to amend the healthcare reform bill in the U.S. House of Representatives, political sources say.

Friday, November 6 China opens probe of U.S. car imports   UPI / 6:54PM BEIJING, Nov. 6 (UPI) -- Chinese trade officials said the Ministry of Commerce would investigate U.S. vehicle imports for anti-competitive trade practices. Grain futures close lower Friday   UPI / 6:44PM CHICAGO, Nov. 6 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed lower on the Chicago Board of Trade Friday as stocks were flat in New York on news the U.S. unemployment rate reached 10.2 percent. Crude oil prices slide Friday   UPI / 6:14PM NEW YORK, Nov. 6 (UPI) -- The price of light, sweet crude fell under $78 per barrel Friday as equities stayed flat in New York on news unemployment rose to 10.2 percent in October. Consumer borrowing dropped in September   UPI / 4:54PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 6 (UPI) -- Outstanding consumer credit fell by $14.8 billion in September, dropping for the eighth consecutive month, the U.S. Federal Reserve said Friday. Chrysler wins over a key executive   UPI / 3:05PM AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Nov. 6 (UPI) -- The head of the largest U.S. auto dealership group, Mike Jackson, said he was confident in Chrysler Group's ability to make a comeback. Patients want doctors to discuss costs   UPI / 1:44PM WINSTON-SALEM, N.C., Nov. 6 (UPI) -- As patients are charged more by health insurance companies, they expect physicians to help them navigate options to get the best treatment, researchers said. 200 Waldenbooks outlets to close   UPI / 1:34PM ANN ARBOR, Mich., Nov. 6 (UPI) -- U.S. retailer Borders Group Inc. said it would close 200 Waldenbooks outlets in a cost-cutting move that would eliminate 1,500 jobs. Shame stops homeowners from defaulting   UPI / 1:14PM TUCSON, Nov. 6 (UPI) -- A University of Arizona researcher says feelings of fear, guilt and shame can stop a U.S. homeowner from defaulting on a mortgage. Frank lambasts credit card companies   UPI / 11:44AM NEW YORK, Nov. 6 (UPI) -- U.S. credit card companies have done an end run around tighter credit card laws that take effect in February, Rep. Barney Frank, D-Mass., said. Driver sought in French armored car heist   UPI / 10:05AM LYON, France, Nov. 6 (UPI) -- French police said Friday they were hunting the driver of an armored car who disappeared with his van and 11 million Euros ($16.3 million) in cash. U.S. slaps duties on Chinese oil pipes   UPI / 1:54AM BEIJING, Nov. 6 (UPI) -- Beijing reacted strongly against the U.S. decision to slap preliminary anti-dumping duties of up to 99 percent on some Chinese oil pipe imports.

Thursday, November 5 Ban on Zimbabwean diamonds reected   UPI / 7:24PM WINDHOEK, Namibia, Nov. 5 (UPI) -- Zimbabwe escaped suspension from a diamond-trading group Thursday, though members said the country's mining practices would be closely watched. GM Opel sale takes turn   AP / 5:35PM Nov. 5--DETROIT Grain futures drop Thursday   UPI / 5:35PM CHICAGO, Nov. 5 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed lower on the Chicago Board of Trade Thursday, as stocks soared in New York, putting the dollar in a stronger position against the euro. Crude oil prices ease slightly   UPI / 5:35PM NEW YORK, Nov. 5 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices eased back below $80 per barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange Thursday, despite U.S. stockpiles dropping. Ex-GM exec returns to U.S. and fraud plea   UPI / 4:34PM CHICAGO, Nov. 5 (UPI) -- A former General Motors executive, a fugitive for more than a year, returned to the United States to plead guilty to kickbacks and fraud, U.S. officials said. Disney theme park to open in Shanghai   UPI / 4:24PM SHANGHAI, Nov. 5 (UPI) -- The Walt Disney Company said authorities in China have agreed to allow a Disney theme park to be built in Shanghai. Exxon-Shell awarded Iraqi oil deal   UPI / 3:44PM BAGHDAD, Nov. 5 (UPI) -- The Iraqi Oil Ministry granted Exxon Mobil Corp. and Royal Dutch Shell the rights to the West Qurna-1 oil field, awarding the contract over two other bids. Galleon case grows with 14 arrests   AP / 3:35PM Authorities charged 14 investors and attorneys with insider trading Thursday, expanding the case involving New York hedge fund Galleon Group. European banks hold to low interest rates   UPI / 3:04PM LONDON, Nov. 5 (UPI) -- The European Central Bank and the Bank of England followed U.S. policy makers Thursday, electing to keep bank lending rates unchanged. Dodd prepares independent reform bill   UPI / 2:14PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 5 (UPI) -- The chairman of the U.S. Senate Finance Committee is forging a financial reform bill vastly different from the Treasury Department's initiative, sources said. Long term rates fall below 5 percent   UPI / 2:05PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 5 (UPI) -- Interest rates for 30-year, fixed-rate U.S. mortgages fell below 5 percent in the week ending Nov. 5, the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. said Thursday.

Wednesday, November 4 Detroit Free Press Tom Walsh column: Marchionne's Chrysler frank, scattershot   AP / 8:34PM Nov. 4--The new Chrysler Group under CEO Segio Marchionne is extremely frank, almost unsettlingly so, about Chrysler's failings under previous owners leading up to its government rescue and Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Grain futures close mixed Wednesday   UPI / 6:05PM CHICAGO, Nov. 4 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed mixed on the Chicago Board of Trade Wednesday as stocks turned flat after the Federal Reserve left lending rates unchanged. GM to cut 10,000 jobs in Europe   UPI / 5:54PM DETROIT, Nov. 4 (UPI) -- U.S. auto giant General Motors Co. said Wednesday it would cut 10,000 jobs from its European operations in Britain and Germany. Chrysler talks up a five-year plan   UPI / 3:54PM AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Nov. 4 (UPI) -- U.S. automaker Chrysler said Wednesday it had more cash on hand than it did at the end of June as part of a day-long unveiling of its five-year business plan. Fed keeps lending rates low   UPI / 3:24PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 4 (UPI) -- The U.S. Federal Reserve said it would maintain its current low interest rates at zero to 0.25 percent, despite recent economic improvements. Affidavits still sealed in Yale killing   UPI / 2:24PM NEW HAVEN, Conn., Nov. 4 (UPI) -- A Connecticut judge must decide whether to unseal arrest warrant affidavits for the lab technician charged with killing a Yale University graduate student. Ancient marble found in Acre   UPI / 12:44PM JERUSALEM, Nov. 4 (UPI) -- About 350 pieces of rare marble were found buried under a floor dating back to the Crusades in the ancient Israeli port city of Acre, archaeologists say. U.N. chief urges restraint in E Jerusalem   UPI / 8:24AM JERUSALEM, Nov. 4 (UPI) -- U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon urged Israel to end provocative actions in East Jerusalem after settlers stormed a home, officials said. Bill to dead student's parents 'insulting'   UPI / 6:44AM SACRAMENTO, Nov. 3 (UPI) -- California parents whose son died after being beaten in his college dormitory said they got a notice from a hospital saying he owed more than $29,000 for care.

Tuesday, November 3 House OKs homebuyer tax credit extension   UPI / 10:14PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 3 (UPI) -- The U.S. House Tuesday approved legislation that would extend unemployment benefits and expand an $8,000 tax credit for first-time homebuyers. GM says it will keep Opel   UPI / 7:34PM DETROIT, Nov. 3 (UPI) -- U.S. automaker GM Co. said Tuesday business is looking up so it's not going to sell its Opel division. Grain futures flat Tuesday   UPI / 6:24PM CHICAGO, Nov. 3 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed mixed on the Chicago Board of Trade Tuesday as crude oil prices rose and equities fell flat in New York. Crude oil climbs above $79   UPI / 6:05PM NEW YORK, Nov. 3 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices climbed over $79 per barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange Tuesday, ahead of Wednesday's inventory report. Best Buy to team up with Sonic Solutions   UPI / 4:34PM RICHFIELD, Minn., Nov. 3 (UPI) -- U.S. retail giant Best Buy said it would work with Sonic Solutions to offer customers video streaming on a variety of devices, including mobile phones. GM, Ford say sales are up; Chrysler drops   UPI / 3:54PM DETROIT, Nov. 3 (UPI) -- Two out of three U.S. automakers reported vehicle sales increased in October, with Chrysler Group LLC reporting sales slumped significantly, down 30 percent. Store owner allowed to keep painted flag   UPI / 2:14PM NORTH PALM BEACH, Fla., Nov. 3 (UPI) -- Officials in a Florida town voted to allow a shopkeeper to keep the big U.S. flag she painted on the outside wall of her consignment store. Gore says 'proud' to invest green in green   UPI / 2:14PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 3 (UPI) -- Former U.S. Vice President Al Gore said Tuesday he's proud to invest in green companies and is not a "carbon billionaire" as portrayed in a published report. 17,000 children died with no insurance   UPI / 1:54PM BALTIMORE, Nov. 3 (UPI) -- A lack of health insurance may have led or contributed to the deaths of 17,000 hospitalized children in the last 20 years, U.S. medical researchers said. Florida bank put TARP funds into loans   UPI / 1:14PM MIAMI, Nov. 3 (UPI) -- The Biscayne Bank in Florida reported that, with federal bailout funds in hand, it increased lending in the third quarter. Factory Orders Rebounded in September   AP / 12:34PM New orders for manufactured U.S. goods rose in September for the fourth time in the past five months, the U.S. Census Bureau reported Tuesday. U.S. retail sales slipped slightly in week   UPI / 12:14PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 3 (UPI) -- Retail sales in the United States slipped 0.1 percent in the week ending Oct. 31, the International Council of Shopping Centers-USB reported Tuesday. Suspect robs same bank three times   UPI / 12:05PM TAMARAC, Fla., Nov. 3 (UPI) -- A heavyset man wearing dreadlocks has robbed the same Tamarac, Fla., bank three times this year without being caught, police said. U.S. to teach seafood safety in Bangladesh   UPI / 11:44AM WASHINGTON, Nov. 3 (UPI) -- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Joint Institute for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition are sending experts to Bangladesh to teach seafood safety. Homeowners who walk, leave houses to fate   UPI / 11:34AM NEW YORK, Nov. 3 (UPI) -- U.S. foreclosure rates are up against more than stubborn banks, as homeowners also choose to abandon their mortgages, economists said. Third, final body of Quebec miners found   UPI / 10:44AM QUEBEC CITY, Nov. 3 (UPI) -- Searchers at a mine 350 miles north of Montreal said Tuesday they had found the third and final body of workers trapped by a flood last week.

Monday, November 2 Grain futures close mostly higher   UPI / 6:05PM CHICAGO, Nov. 2 (UPI) -- Corn, wheat and soybean futures closed sharply higher on the Chicago Board of Trade Monday as stocks made gains on Wall Street. Oil prices recover some ground   UPI / 5:35PM NEW YORK, Nov. 2 (UPI) -- Oil prices climbed above $78 per barrel during the weekend on the New York Mercantile Exchange on positive manufacturing news in Europe and China. Small business loans scarce at large banks   UPI / 5:05PM BOSTON, Nov. 2 (UPI) -- Billions of dollars of U.S. bailout funds have gone to pay down bank debt, rather than increase small business lending, a leading economic analyst said. RBS says it may sell unexpected assets   UPI / 3:14PM LONDON, Nov. 2 (UPI) -- The Royal Bank of Scotland, under pressure from the European Commission, said it may sell some unexpected assets to pay for it's government bailout. Construction spending turns higher   UPI / 1:44PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 2 (UPI) -- Spending on private and public construction in the United States turned higher in September compared with August, the U.S. Commerce Department said Monday. UPI.com offers audio news articles   UPI / 1:44PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 2 (UPI) -- United Press International announced the launch of a Web-based application to allow any of its articles to be heard over the Internet. Pending home sales rose in August   UPI / 1:24PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 2 (UPI) -- Pending U.S. home sales rose for the eighth consecutive month in August with gains made across the country, the National Association of Realtors said Monday. U.S. manufacturing growth accelerates   UPI / 1:14PM TEMPE, Ariz., Nov. 2 (UPI) -- The Institute of Supply Management said U.S. manufacturing activity rose for the third consecutive month in October. India oil blaze fought for fifth day   UPI / 1:05PM JAIPUR, India, Nov. 2 (UPI) -- Firefighters battled an Indian oil depot blaze for a fifth day Monday and officials said the death toll from the fire rose to 11. Manufacturing turns to leaner production   UPI / 12:24PM NEW YORK, Nov. 2 (UPI) -- U.S. workers have more than the economy to fear as employers work towards improved efficiencies that cut back on the need for labor, a private study showed.

Sunday, November 1 Colo. targets oil and gas investment firm   UPI / 7:05PM DENVER, Nov. 1 (UPI) -- Colorado officials are targeting an oil and gas investment company in a $300 million alleged fraud, records indicate. Geithner: 'Choppy' U.S. recovery under way   UPI / 4:14PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 1 (UPI) -- A "choppy" and "uneven" U.S. economic recovery is under way, Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner said Sunday. Lieberman: Would join health filibuster   UPI / 2:54PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 1 (UPI) -- Sen. Joseph Lieberman, Ind-Conn., said Sunday that he would join a Republican filibuster to stop the creation of a government-run health plan option. Miners have 'slim' chance in flooded mine   UPI / 12:34PM MONTREAL, Nov. 1 (UPI) -- The chance of finding three miners alive after they disappeared in a gold mine in northern Quebec is slim, a company executive said Saturday. Two dead, 100 hurt in factory riot   UPI / 8:34AM TONGI, Bangladesh, Nov. 1 (UPI) -- Two people died and 100 were injured during a confrontation between police and unpaid workers at a Bangladesh garment factory, authorities said Sunday. FBOP Corp. bought by U.S. Bancorp   UPI / 12:34AM CHICAGO, Oct. 31 (UPI) -- The Chicago area's third-largest locally based bank holding company was seized by federal regulators and purchased by Minnesota-based U.S. Bancorp.

Saturday, October 31 Ford workers say no to cost-saving effort   UPI / 11:05PM DETROIT, Oct. 31 (UPI) -- Union workers at Ford Motor Co. factories rejected contract changes the U.S. automaker wanted to reduce its labor costs, officials said Saturday. Time to fall back Sunday morning   UPI / 10:14PM WASHINGTON, Wash., Oct. 31 (UPI) -- The United States will "fall back" at 2 a.m. Sunday as daylight saving time ends -- except for Hawaii and Arizona, the government says. Chrysler offers new round of buyouts   UPI / 4:04PM DETROIT, Oct. 31 (UPI) -- U.S. automaker Chrysler Group LLC says it has offered buyouts and early retirements to 23,000 workers in a bid to cut costs. Ford to close Canadian plant   UPI / 3:54PM ST. THOMAS, Ontario, Oct. 31 (UPI) -- Ford Motor Co. will close one of its Canadian assembly plants, wiping out 1,500 jobs there, union officials say. Boehner: Dem health reforms 'reckless'   UPI / 1:34PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 31 (UPI) -- Healthcare reform measures supported by U.S. President Barack Obama and congressional Democrats are a "reckless government takeover," a Republican leader says. Cruelty allegations close slaughter plant   UPI / 1:14PM GRAND ISLE, Vt., Oct. 31 (UPI) -- The federal government has closed a slaughter plant in Grand Isle, Vt., that allegedly abused veal calves, skinning one alive, authorities said. Clinton meets Abbas in Abu Dhabi   UPI / 12:14PM ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates, Oct. 31 (UPI) -- Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, rejecting U.S. calls to renew peace talks with Israel, says there must be a total West Bank settlement freeze first. California National, Other Banks Seized   AP / 10:34AM California National Bank and eight others owned by an Illinois company have become the country's fourth-largest bank failure this year, U.S. officials said. Russian tycoon makes secret U.S. trips   UPI / 2:14AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 31 (UPI) -- A Russian aluminum tycoon barred from the United States for years recently made two secret visits arranged by the FBI, The Wall Street Journal reports. Flooding puts Somali town under water   UPI / 2:14AM EL-WAQ, Somalia, Oct. 31 (UPI) -- Flooding in Somalia has driven more than 15,000 people from their homes in a town near the border with Kenya and killed livestock, UN officials say.

Friday, October 30 Historic homes for one dollar -- no takers   UPI / 9:05PM BARRINGTON, Ill., Oct. 30 (UPI) -- Three historic 1920s houses in an Illinois town were put up for auction with a starting bid of one dollar -- with no takers, town officials said. La. restaurants lobby against oyster rule   UPI / 7:24PM NEW ORLEANS, Oct. 30 (UPI) -- The Louisiana Restaurant Association has begun lobbying against a proposed federal regulation that would ban the sale of raw oysters in the summer. Dollar, crude pressure ag commodities   UPI / 6:05PM CHICAGO, Oct. 30 (UPI) -- Prices closed lower Friday on the Chicago Board of Trade, pressured by crude oil and a stronger dollar. Crude oil closes day down, month up   UPI / 4:34PM NEW YORK, Oct. 30 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices slumped Friday, bogged down by a mixed U.S. economic report and a stronger dollar, finishing the day down $2.87 to close at $77 a barrel. Insect threatens organic citrus area   UPI / 2:44PM SAN DIEGO, Oct. 30 (UPI) -- California agriculture officials say they have trapped a potentially devastating insect in an area known for its organic citrus farms. Former pot farm uncovered in Wisconsin   UPI / 2:35PM ALMA, Wis., Oct. 30 (UPI) -- Authorities in Buffalo County, Wis., said they uncovered a large abandoned pot farm hidden in the middle of the Tiffany State Wildlife Area. Wind energy loads Western power grid   UPI / 2:24PM PORTLAND, Ore., Oct. 30 (UPI) -- Aging transmission lines and power stations in western U.S. states are loaded to the limit with power from wind turbines, authorities said. Iowa facing latest corn harvest in decades   UPI / 1:44PM PRAIRIE CITY, Iowa, Oct. 30 (UPI) -- Farmers in Iowa are facing the latest corn harvest to occur in the state in 42 years, a climate expert said Man charged in shooting death of wife   UPI / 12:44PM CHICAGO, Oct. 30 (UPI) -- A 22-year-old Chicago man is charged with first-degree murder in the shooting of his wife, whose body was found in the trunk of her car, police said. BP 'Disappointed' With $87 Million Texas City Fine   AP / 11:34AM Oct. 30--Federal safety regulators are imposing an $87 million fine on BP for its response to a settlement of charges related to the deadly 2005 explosion at its Texas City refinery. Washington reacts to Treasury plan   UPI / 10:24AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 30 (UPI) -- Lawmakers and economists have expressed doubts about a major U.S. Treasury Department proposal to regulate future financial crisis. Testing shows chemicals in Chinese drywall   UPI / 1:10AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 30 (UPI) -- Chinese-made drywall blamed for bad odor and health problems in U.S. homes emits high levels of sulfur and strontium, federal investigators said.

Thursday, October 29 Florida Will Be Late to the Economic Recovery   AP / 8:34PM Oct. 29--The Great Recession might be over for the nation, but Florida's economy is still shrinking. Panel to investigate Waters, Richardson   UPI / 8:14PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 29 (UPI) -- A U.S. House ethics panel voted unanimously Thursday to investigate complaints against Reps. Maxine Waters and Laura Richardson, and cleared Rep. Sam Graves. Crude Oil Price Climbs Sharply   AP / 6:34PM Crude oil prices surged to nearly $80 per barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange Thursday despite the government saying stockpiles remain high. Grain futures rise Thursday   UPI / 5:14PM CHICAGO, Oct. 29 (UPI) -- Grain futures rose sharply on the Chicago Board of Trade Thursday as equities surged on Wall Street and oil prices made gains. Bair counters Treasury reform package   UPI / 2:44PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 29 (UPI) -- Sheila Bair, chairwoman of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp., told House committee members she disagreed with key points of a Treasury reform initiative. Court upholds fine for 26 pasta producers   UPI / 2:05PM ROME, Oct. 29 (UPI) -- An administrative court in Italy said 26 pasta producers must pay $18.5 million to settle charges the companies created a cartel to fix pasta prices. Geithner Presses Case for Reform   AP / 12:35PM U.S. Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner told Washington lawmakers Thursday the next financial crisis must be handled without taxpayer assistance. NYC temp accused of stealing identities   UPI / 12:35PM NEW YORK, Oct. 29 (UPI) -- A former temporary employee at a New York City bank stole the identities of 150 of his fellow employees during his brief employment, prosecutors say. S.C. Lands Boeing: Lawmakers Celebrate As Deal is Sealed   AP / 4:34AM Oct. 29--The landing was delayed, but Boeing has arrived in South Carolina and is bringing along 3,800 jobs to build its new, state-of-the-art jet.

Wednesday, October 28 S.F.-Oakland bridge closed another day   UPI / 10:04PM SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 28 (UPI) -- California transportation officials said Wednesday it would be at least another day before the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge could be reopened. Pelosi to unveil healthcare reform bill   UPI / 9:05PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 28 (UPI) -- House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., is set to outline broad healthcare overhaul legislation that will include a government-run insurance option, aides said. Boeing Selects Charleston, S.C., Over Seattle for New Operation   AP / 7:34PM SEATTLE -- Boeing's board has voted unanimously to build a Grain futures close lower Wednesday   UPI / 5:34PM CHICAGO, Oct. 28 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed mostly lower on the Chicago Board of Trade Wednesday as the stock equities and oil prices both declined. Gore touts climate change business hopes   UPI / 4:24PM DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Oct. 28 (UPI) -- Former U.S. Vice President Al Gore told a Dubai conference the climate crisis is "the single biggest business opportunity" in history. Wis. votes to regulate puppy mills   UPI / 4:05PM MADISON, Wis., Oct. 28 (UPI) -- Large-scale dog breeding facilities, sometimes known as puppy mills, will now be regulated in Wisconsin, lawmakers say. Chicago terror plot complaint amended   UPI / 3:34PM CHICAGO, Oct. 28 (UPI) -- An amended criminal complaint released Wednesday charged a Chicago man with aiding Pakistani terrorists in a plot to attack a Danish newspaper. Ford locals poised to turn down contract   UPI / 3:14PM DEARBORN, Mich., Oct. 28 (UPI) -- Six out of eight Ford Motor Co. union locals said they voted down a new contract meant to put Ford's costs in line with U.S. competitors. FSA fines Swinton, orders refunds   UPI / 3:05PM LONDON, Oct. 28 (UPI) -- Regulators ordered British insurance broker Swinton to pay a $1.2 million fine and offer refunds to 500,000 customers for inappropriate sales tactics. Connerton, urban model, meets real market   UPI / 2:24PM TAMPA, Fla., Oct. 28 (UPI) -- An urban development project north of Tampa, Fla., the would be-home for 20,000 called Connerton, may soon be sold, the company president said. Mortgage activity fell in U.S. last week   UPI / 1:14PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 28 (UPI) -- The volume of applications for U.S. mortgages decreased last week, falling by a seasonally adjusted 12.3 percent, an industry group said. Feds: Fort Worth a hub of cartel gun trade   UPI / 12:54PM FORT WORTH, Texas, Oct. 28 (UPI) -- Federal investigators say a Mexican drug smuggling ring targeted in the United States this month also has been trafficking in guns. EC approves sale of Northern Rock   UPI / 12:44PM LONDON, Oct. 28 (UPI) -- The European Commission approved a British government plan to break Northern Rock bank into viable and troubled assets and sell the firm. Home sales dropped in September   UPI / 12:05PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 28 (UPI) -- U.S. new home sales dropped 3.6 percent in September, heading in the opposite direction of expectations, the Commerce Department said. National Post shifted in Canwest ownership   UPI / 9:44AM WINNIPEG, Manitoba, Oct. 28 (UPI) -- Canada's National Post newspaper is poised to return to its original owner, the Canwest Limited Partnership, the company announced. EDITORIAL: NO on Issue 2   AP / 7:34AM Oct. 28--IT'S NOT often in recent years that we've been able to look to our northern neighbor for an example of good governance, but Ohio lawmakers would have been wise to follow Michigan's example in how to regulate the treatment of farm animals. Mystery blasts mix of industry, weather   UPI / 2:14AM DEMING, N.M., Oct. 28 (UPI) -- Residents of Deming, N.M., have learned that mysterious sounds heard this month were explosions from Playas carried 75 miles by atmospheric conditions.

Tuesday, October 27 Grain futures close lower Tuesday   UPI / 5:05PM CHICAGO, Oct. 27 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed lower on the Chicago Board of Trade Tuesday as the corn and soybean harvests remain slow compared with historic averages. Amazon backs away from wine sales   UPI / 4:14PM SEATTLE, Oct. 27 (UPI) -- U.S. retail giant Amazon.com said its foray into the retail wine business was over before it got to the starting gate. Couple charged with torturing loan agents   UPI / 3:35PM GLENDALE, Calif., Oct. 27 (UPI) -- A California couple facing foreclosure on their home kidnapped, beat and tortured two loan modification agents they had hired to help them, prosecutors say. Nestle project corked in California   UPI / 3:35PM SACRAMENTO, Oct. 27 (UPI) -- The city of Sacramento has halted construction of a water bottling plant pending a debate on new requirements for similar facilities. Couple handed jail time for mortgage fraud   UPI / 12:34PM TAMPA, Fla., Oct. 27 (UPI) -- A former bank president in Tampa, Fla., and his wife were handed prison sentences after pleading guilty to a $79 million bank fraud scheme. Ky. breeders plead guilty to tax fraud   UPI / 12:14PM LOUISVILLE, Ky., Oct. 27 (UPI) -- The owners of a Kentucky horse farm have pleaded guilty to a $200 million tax fraud scheme, prosecutors say. Central Atlantic manufacturing gains   UPI / 11:44AM RICHMOND, Va., Oct. 27 (UPI) -- Manufacturing activity rose for the sixth consecutive month in the central Atlantic states, the Richmond, Va., Federal Reserve Bank said Tuesday. Docs troubled by big Medicare payment cuts   UPI / 11:44AM KANSAS CITY, Mo., Oct. 27 (UPI) -- Some U.S. doctors who mostly treat elderly patients say they are troubled by a proposed 21 percent Medicare reimbursement cut. Report: Russia prepping PR campaign   UPI / 9:14AM BRUSSELS, Oct. 27 (UPI) -- The state-owned Russian news agency RIA Novosti has instituted a public relations campaign to advance Moscow's interests, the EUobserver reported Tuesday. Greenberg builds second insurance giant   UPI / 9:14AM NEW YORK, Oct. 27 (UPI) -- A former American International Group chairman is building his second U.S. insurance empire with the help of former AIG executives, an insurance expert said. Poll: Majority favors public option   UPI / 1:05AM MENLO PARK, Calif., Oct. 27 (UPI) -- Fifty-seven percent of the U.S. public say they favor the creation of a "government-administered public health insurance option," a tracking poll indicates.

Monday, October 26 Grain futures close sharply lower Monday   UPI / 4:54PM CHICAGO, Oct. 26 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed on the Chicago Board of Trade as equities stumbled on Wall Street with the dollar rising and crude oil prices on the decline. Harvests slow, USDA says   UPI / 4:24PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 26 (UPI) -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture said the nation's corn harvest is nearly complete in Texas and North Carolina, but just under way in several other states. Suspect scarecrows destroyed   UPI / 4:14PM BALTIMORE, Oct. 26 (UPI) -- Inspectors in Baltimore say they destroyed a shipment of garden scarecrows from Hong Kong that could have contained harmful pathogens. Pseudoephedrine sales down after law   UPI / 3:14PM WASHINGTON, Mo., Oct. 26 (UPI) -- An ordinance in Washington, Mo., requiring prescriptions to purchase decongestants containing pseudoephedrine has resulted in plummeting sales, officials say. Slain child's parents criticize police   UPI / 2:34PM LIVONIA, Mich., Oct. 26 (UPI) -- A Michigan task force set up to investigate a series of child killings in the 1970s is sitting on evidence in the cases, a slain boy's family says. Newspapers continue to lose readers   UPI / 2:34PM NEW YORK, Oct. 26 (UPI) -- U.S. newspapers continued to show signs of decline in the past six months with circulation falling more than 25 percent at one major city's daily newspaper. Sen. Durbin baits bankers in Chicago   UPI / 1:14PM CHICAGO, Oct. 26 (UPI) -- Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill., invited bankers visiting Chicago for a meeting to tour a neighborhood he said had a foreclosure on every block. Israelis said surprised at Bildt's absense   UPI / 12:44PM STOCKHOLM, Sweden, Oct. 26 (UPI) -- Israeli diplomats are surprised that Swedish Foreign Minister Carl Bildt has yet to reschedule a canceled visit to Jerusalem, a source says. Swedish party wants info from journalist   UPI / 11:54AM STOCKHOLM, Sweden, Oct. 26 (UPI) -- The leader of Sweden's Social Democrats says prominent journalist Jan Guillou should reveal what he told Soviet spies about the party in the 1960s. Tracking on line customers splits reaction   UPI / 11:44AM NEW YORK, Oct. 26 (UPI) -- The practice of tracking U.S. shoppers on the Internet elicits sharply different opinions from consumers, various studies show.

Sunday, October 25 Kim: North Koreans need more silk   UPI / 2:44PM PYONGYANG, North Korea, Oct. 25 (UPI) -- North Korean leader Kim Jong Il says his countrymen should have more silk clothing made available to them.

Saturday, October 24 1 man dies in sinking of shrimp boat   UPI / 11:24PM ST. JOHN'S, Newfoundland, Oct. 24 (UPI) -- The Canadian Coast Guard says it recovered the body of one crew member and rescued three others after a shrimping vessel sank early Saturday off Newfoundland. Amazon.com shares zoom to record high   UPI / 2:54PM SEATTLE, Oct. 24 (UPI) -- A better-than-expected earnings report prompted investors to push U.S. online retailer Amazon.com's stock price to an all-time high. GOP: Healthcare reform deals 'shameful'   UPI / 2:34PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 24 (UPI) -- Democratic leaders are using "shameful backroom deals" to reach a healthcare reform agreement, a Republican U.S. senator said Saturday. Canadian lobsters get Maine support   UPI / 10:34AM PORTLAND, Maine, Oct. 24 (UPI) -- A U.S. heiress is drawing criticism for her marketing efforts to differentiate Maine lobsters from their Canadian cousins, observers say. Food cos. dropping Smart Choices labeling   UPI / 10:14AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 24 (UPI) -- U.S. food manufacturers say they are moving away from an industry-devised labeling campaign meant to spotlight the nutritional benefits of their products. Obama promises help for small businesses   UPI / 6:14AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 24 (UPI) -- U.S. President Barack Obama said Saturday his administration will make it easier for small businesses to get credit they need to grow and create new jobs. EU, U.S., to form energy council   UPI / 2:14AM BRUSSELS, Oct. 24 (UPI) -- A joint European-U.S. energy council to coordinate policy on both sides of the Atlantic is expected to begin work in November, a U.S. official said. 2,000 at Polish factory protest job cuts   UPI / 2:14AM POZNAN, Poland, Oct. 24 (UPI) -- About 2,000 employees of a Polish marine engine factory took to the streets Friday to demand a halt to layoffs and a new government economic policy.

Friday, October 23 Shuttered banks reach 100 for 2009   UPI / 7:05PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 23 (UPI) -- A bank in Florida had the dubious distinction of being the 100th U.S. bank failure for the year, the Office of Thrift Supervision said Friday. Crude oil prices back under $80   UPI / 6:54PM NEW YORK, Oct. 23 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices dropped under $80 per barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange Friday after reaching a peak for the year this week. There's gold in them thar Swiss hills   UPI / 6:44PM SURSELVA, Switzerland, Oct. 23 (UPI) -- The new century's first gold rush may happen in Switzerland, says a Canadian mining company planning exploration drilling there. Grain futures close lower Friday   UPI / 6:24PM CHICAGO, Oct. 23 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed lower on the Chicago Board of Trade Friday as stocks tumbled and the dollar made gains against the euro and the yen. Congress to investigate mortgage lenders   UPI / 4:14PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 23 (UPI) -- A Congressional panel has opened an investigation into U.S. mortgage lenders to explore their role in the financial crisis and possible influence-peddling. Tanker blast closes Indianapolis bridges   UPI / 2:44PM INDIANAPOLIS, Oct. 23 (UPI) -- Two interstate bridges in Indianapolis remained closed for testing Friday, the day after a propane tanker truck exploded, a state said. Home sales jumped in September   UPI / 1:05PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 23 (UPI) -- Sales of existing U.S. homes jumped 9.4 percent in September, the fifth rise in six months, the National Association of Realtors said Friday. Chicago News Cooperative set for debut   UPI / 12:44PM CHICAGO, Oct. 23 (UPI) -- Former Chicago Tribune managing editor Jim O'Shea said his Chicago News Cooperative will be focused on offering "public-service journalism." Serial bank robber nabbed in Illinois   UPI / 12:34PM SPRINGFIELD, Ill., Oct. 23 (UPI) -- A man with a history of bank robbery is being held on $250,000 bond in Monday's robbery of Region's Bank in Decatur, Ill., authorities say. Bernanke presses Congress for reforms   UPI / 12:24PM CHATHAM, Mass., Oct. 23 (UPI) -- U.S. Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke again called for regulatory reform, specifically prodding Congress to back up regulators with stricter banking laws. Pot scheme in Calif. ends with indictments   UPI / 12:05PM SACRAMENTO, Oct. 23 (UPI) -- A scheme involving mortgage fraud and marijuana grow houses located in several California cities has prompted 18 indictments, federal prosecutors said. Feinberg reflects on his own pay ruling   UPI / 11:24AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 23 (UPI) -- U.S. Treasury Department pay czar Kenneth Feinberg said he would be "disappointed" if executives left their jobs due to pay cuts he imposed. Swiss upset with Italian tax amnesty plan   UPI / 11:24AM GENEVA, Switzerland, Oct. 23 (UPI) -- Bankers in a Swiss state bordering Italy are worried about a new Italian tax amnesty plan aimed at repatriating hidden funds, Swiss officials say.

Thursday, October 22 Senate bill may include public option   UPI / 9:34PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 22 (UPI) -- Top Democrats are leaning toward including a publicly funded health insurance option in a healthcare reform bill in the U.S. Senate, sources said Thursday. Fed and Treasury pounce on executive pay   UPI / 6:44PM WAS, D.C., Oct. 22 (UPI) -- The U.S. Federal Reserve and the Treasury Department both announced restrictions on pay for bankers Thursday in a choreography meant to trim financial risks. Grain futures mostly higher Thursday   UPI / 6:24PM CHICAGO, Oct. 22 (UPI) -- Grain futures were mostly higher on the Chicago Board of Trade Thursday with oil prices surging in the past week. U.S. home prices fell July to August   UPI / 5:54PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 22 (UPI) -- U.S. home prices fell 0.3 percent on a seasonally adjusted basis from July to August, the Federal Housing Finance Agency said Thursday. Calif. law opens door for paparazzi suits   UPI / 4:34PM SACRAMENTO, Oct. 22 (UPI) -- A new California state law that allows publishers of paparazzi works to be sued for recordings obtained illegally could result in lawsuits, experts say. Lawyer gets new hearing in Holocaust fraud   UPI / 4:14PM JERUSALEM, Oct. 22 (UPI) -- The Israeli Supreme Court Thursday granted an appeal hearing to a lawyer convicted of wide-scale fraud against Holocaust survivors. Recession impacting Louisiana gator farms   UPI / 12:54PM ABBEVILLE, La., Oct. 22 (UPI) -- Operators of gator farms throughout Louisiana say they're hurting financially because the recession has taken a big bite out of orders. Corruption alleged as drought bakes Kenya   UPI / 12:44PM NAIROBI, Kenya, Oct. 22 (UPI) -- Critics say corruption on the part of Kenya's new government is aggravating the food shortages caused by East Africa's long-running drought. Russia, New York Mellon bank settle suit   UPI / 12:44PM MOSCOW, Oct. 22 (UPI) -- A Russian court has halted a $22.5 billion lawsuit filed against Bank of New York Mellon with the plaintiff announcing a settlement had been reached. Chasing thief costs Wal-Mart worker a job   UPI / 12:34PM OCALA, Fla., Oct. 22 (UPI) -- A former Wal-Mart worker in Ocala, Fla., said he was fired from his job because he chased after a man who allegedly tried to steal a pack of golf balls. Canadian retail trade creeps up in August   UPI / 10:14AM OTTAWA, Oct. 22 (UPI) -- Increased sales at gas stations and car dealerships led a 0.8 percent rise in Canada's $34.5 billion in retail sales in August, Statistics Canada said Thursday.

Wednesday, October 21 First lady swivels a mean hula hoop   UPI / 9:05PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 21 (UPI) -- U.S. first lady Michelle Obama, promoting children's health, swiveled her hips Wednesday and kept a hula hoop in play for 142 rotations at the White House. UPI NewsTrack Business   AP / 5:35PM U.S. markets fall on Fed report NEW YORK, Oct. 21 (UPI) -- U.S. markets turned sharply lower Wednesday after the Federal Reserve sounded a cautious note in its Beige Book report. Grain futures sharply higher   UPI / 5:24PM CHICAGO, Oct. 21 (UPI) -- Grain futures were sharply higher on the Chicago Board of Trade Tuesday with corn reaching its highest level since June. State of GM, Chrysler 'shocked' officials   UPI / 5:05PM DETROIT, Oct. 21 (UPI) -- Former U.S. automotive task force chief Steve Rattner said the state of General Motors Co. and Chrysler last spring "shocked" government officials. Barnes & Noble launches e-reader, Nook   UPI / 4:24PM NEW YORK, N.J., Oct. 21 (UPI) -- U.S. book retailer Barnes & Noble unveiled its electronic reader in New York, a $259 rival to Kindle 2 called the Nook. Fed's Beige Book describes muted optimism   UPI / 4:05PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 21 (UPI) -- The Federal Reserve warned Wednesday the improving U.S. economy remained weak, especially in the commercial real estate sector. Volcker pushes for separate banks   UPI / 12:44PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 21 (UPI) -- Former Federal Reserve Chairman Paul Volcker said he espouses a banking system that separates commercial and investment banking. Document release sought in Yale slaying   UPI / 12:24PM HARTFORD, Conn., Oct. 21 (UPI) -- A Connecticut judge said it might take him weeks to decide whether to release police documents in the case of slain Yale graduate student Annie Le. Report: TARP cost government in credibility   UPI / 11:24AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 21 (UPI) -- The inspector general of the $700 billion financial firm bailout said the program helped banks, but with serious costs to U.S. government credibility. Lawyer guilty of swindling Mitsubishi   UPI / 1:24AM LONDON, Oct. 21 (UPI) -- A London lawyer was convicted Tuesday of conning her employer, Tokyo Mitsubishi, out of millions of pounds in letters of credit to a friend's airline. Video released of bakery owner slaying   UPI / 12:24AM CAMDEN, N.J., Oct. 21 (UPI) -- Police released video of three men who killed a South Jersey bakery owner, saying they hoped suspects can be identified by their distinctive hoodie sweatshirts.

Tuesday, October 20 Raid on Illinois slaughterhouse a mystery   UPI / 10:05PM JOLIET, Ill., Oct. 20 (UPI) -- People living near a former meat-processing plant in Joliet, Ill., that was raided Sunday say officials aren't telling them much about what went on there. Va. man convicted of stomping opossum   UPI / 7:44PM VERNON HILL, Va., Oct. 20 (UPI) -- A Virginia man was convicted of animal cruelty for chasing down and stomping an opossum to death. Grain futures close lower Tuesday   UPI / 6:34PM CHICAGO, Oct. 20 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed lower on the Chicago Board of Trade Tuesday as stock markets put in a flat day and the dollar rose against the euro and the yen. Failed bank auction leaves out profits   UPI / 6:34PM GREELEY, Colo., Oct. 20 (UPI) -- A U.S. fire-sale auction of New Frontier loans brought 27 cents on the dollar, or $157 million for a $500 million portfolio, government records show. California charges State Street with fraud   UPI / 6:14PM SACRAMENTO, Oct. 20 (UPI) -- California has filed suit accusing State Street Bank and Trust of overcharging state employee pension funds $50 million since 2001, officials said Tuesday. N.J. corruption probe figure pleads guilty   UPI / 4:05PM FREEHOLD, N.J., Oct. 20 (UPI) -- Solomon Dwek, the key witness in a massive New Jersey corruption case, pleaded guilty Tuesday to real estate fraud charges, court observers said. EU to consider aid to its dairy sector   UPI / 3:34PM BRUSSELS, Oct. 20 (UPI) -- The European Commission has proposed an emergency bill to support dairy farmers who say the price they receive for milk has fallen below production costs. Press freedom index rates Iran low   UPI / 11:14AM PARIS, Oct. 20 (UPI) -- Reporters Without Borders says Iranian journalists continue to suffer under President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's administration. White House supported Merrill Lynch deal   UPI / 11:05AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 20 (UPI) -- White House officials told Bank of America they agreed with a U.S. taxpayer rescue package to support the bank's purchase of Merrill Lynch, bank documents show.

Monday, October 19 Grain futures sharply higher Monday   UPI / 6:44PM CHICAGO, Oct. 19 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed sharply higher on the Chicago Board of Trade Monday as the dollar lost value and stock equities turned higher. U.S. harvests lag behind average years   UPI / 6:44PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 19 (UPI) -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture said the nation's corn crop, 17 percent harvested, lags behind the five-year average of 46 percent for this time of year. Food Bling brings gold to dinner table   UPI / 6:34PM LONDON, Oct. 19 (UPI) -- A high-end British retailer has become the first department store to stock edible garnishes made from real gold and silver. Some frozen assets thawed in third quarter   UPI / 6:05PM NEW YORK, Oct. 19 (UPI) -- Two U.S. banks have noted a turnaround in the toxic assets that were at the heart of the financial meltdown that gained momentum a year ago. Dodd unveils overdraft fee regulation   UPI / 5:44PM STAMFORD, Conn., Oct. 19 (UPI) -- U.S. Senate Banking Committee Chairman Chris Dodd, D-Conn., Monday unveiled legislation to rein in bank overdraft fees. China growing as buyer of soybeans   UPI / 4:14PM CHICAGO, Oct. 19 (UPI) -- China's growing middle class has created a soaring demand for U.S. soybeans, giving farmers a steady consumer base, trade experts said. Foreclosure to homeless, a new trend   UPI / 3:34PM NEW YORK, Oct. 19 (UPI) -- Losing a house to foreclosure has become an increasingly prevalent factor at U.S. homeless shelters, a national study revealed. UAW cool to Ford deal   UPI / 2:44PM DEARBORN, Mich., Oct. 19 (UPI) -- United Auto Workers leaders said a proposed contract with U.S. carmaker Ford Motor Co. met with opposition from the rank-and-file, despite $1,000 bonuses. White House takes cuts at bank bonuses   UPI / 12:54PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 19 (UPI) -- Top White House officials unleashed a fresh assault on bank bonus pay, which they called "offensive" in light of the high U.S. unemployment rate. British regulators suggest mortgage tests   UPI / 11:35AM LONDON, Oct. 19 (UPI) -- Financial regulators in Britain have proposed banks examine borrowers' expenses on a variety of domestic purchases before approving new loans. Death toll in China mine blast rises to 14   UPI / 10:44AM SHIZUISHAN, China, Oct. 19 (UPI) -- The death toll rose to 14 in a coal mine explosion in northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, authorities said Monday. Severe drought affecting southern China   UPI / 9:24AM BEIJING, Oct. 19 (UPI) -- A persistent, severe drought is stunting rice crops and drying up drinking water reservoirs in southern Chinese provinces, officials say.

Sunday, October 18 Chrysler dealers caught in finance feud   UPI / 7:05PM DETROIT, Oct. 18 (UPI) -- U.S. Chrysler dealers holding loans from Chrysler Financial who need new credit lines may be caught in a dispute with General Motors, observers say. Graham's climate bill support said crucial   UPI / 2:44PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 18 (UPI) -- The support of U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., for legislation to limit greenhouse gas emissions is a key development on the issue, analysts say. Experts: Toyota safety flaw systemic   UPI / 11:44AM LOS ANGELES, Oct. 18 (UPI) -- The problem of sudden acceleration in Toyota vehicles is compounded by complex driver systems that hinder quick reactions, U.S. safety experts say.

Saturday, October 17 Crude oil prices settle higher   UPI / 8:54PM NEW YORK, Oct. 16 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices settled higher Friday, a day after climbing to the year's high of nearly $78 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange. Target apologizes after costume complaints   UPI / 4:34PM MINNEAPOLIS, Oct. 17 (UPI) -- Target Corp., based in Minneapolis, has apologized for selling a Halloween costume that came under fire for its "illegal alien" theme. Mass. town using goats as lawn mowers   UPI / 3:14PM ANDOVER, Mass., Oct. 17 (UPI) -- Officials in Andover, Mass., say they are using goats to keep one of the town's public meadows trimmed, even as they trim a bit of government spending. White House said angry with union ally   UPI / 2:14PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 17 (UPI) -- The White House is angry with the leader of the country's largest public employee union, a major ally on U.S. healthcare reform, administration officials say. U.N.: Some biofuels better than others   UPI / 1:34PM UNITED NATIONS, Oct. 17 (UPI) -- A more sophisticated approach to developing biofuels as an energy option is needed to ensure that it benefits society, a United Nations report contends. Finland sets long-range emission goals   UPI / 1:34PM HELSINKI, Finland, Oct. 17 (UPI) -- Finland aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 80 percent by 2050 through tougher building standards and electric cars, officials said. GOP: Dems tout 'myths' on economy, health   UPI / 12:34PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 17 (UPI) -- Americans are "pleased to see the stock market go up" but they want to know "where are the jobs," a Republican member of Congress said Saturday. EU warns on German aid in Opel deal   UPI / 9:54AM BERLIN, Oct. 17 (UPI) -- Germany's offer to back the purchase of General Motor Co.'s Opel subsidiary with state aid may doom the deal with European regulators, observers say. Obama attacks insurance companies   UPI / 6:14AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 17 (UPI) -- U.S. President Barack Obama attacked insurance companies Saturday, saying they have resorted to "smoke and mirrors" to try to sink healthcare reform. Competition stiff for holiday retail jobs   UPI / 12:54AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 17 (UPI) -- Retail jobs could be hard to come by this holiday season as high unemployment brings more applicants and stores and customers trim spending, retailers say.

Friday, October 16 Grain futures close lower Friday   UPI / 7:54PM CHICAGO, Oct. 16 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed mostly lower on the Chicago Board of Trade Friday in relatively featureless trading. Crude oil prices settle higher   UPI / 7:54PM NEW YORK, Oct. 16 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices settled higher Friday, a day after climbing to the year's high of nearly $78 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange. Argentina's wheat crop falls on hard times   UPI / 2:05PM BUENOS AIRES, Oct. 16 (UPI) -- Prolonged drought and export restrictions have combined to create the smallest wheat harvest in Argentina in 32 years, an agricultural consultant said. Bailed-out banks pile on profit   UPI / 1:14PM NEW YORK, Oct. 16 (UPI) -- The largest U.S. banks with federal bailout funds to prop them up piled on profits in the third quarter in a sluggish economy, quarterly reports show. Industrial production rose in September   UPI / 11:35AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 16 (UPI) -- U.S. industrial production rose 0.7 percent in September, following a gain of 1.2 percent in August, the Federal Reserve said Friday. Bank of America's Lewis to skip pay day   UPI / 10:14AM CHARLOTTE, N.C., Oct. 16 (UPI) -- Bank of America Chief Executive Officer Kenneth Lewis said he would forfeit his salary for 2009 amid new revelations over the purchase of Merrill Lynch. Bill Gates announces money for farmers   UPI / 2:24AM DES MOINES, Iowa, Oct. 16 (UPI) -- Microsoft founder Bill Gates said Thursday his foundation will give $120 million to help small farmers.

Thursday, October 15 Grain futures close lower Thursday   UPI / 7:05PM CHICAGO, Oct. 15 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed lower on the Chicago Board of Trade Thursday after a run-up in prices prompted a mood to sell. Oregon apartments lift flag ban   UPI / 6:44PM ALBANY, Ore., Oct. 15 (UPI) -- An Oregon apartment complex property manager says she has lifted a ban on tenants flying flags after getting some legal advice. Dreamliner costing Boeing $4B in overruns   UPI / 4:34PM CHICAGO, Oct. 15 (UPI) -- Production delays in the Boeing 787 Dreamliner have cost the U.S. planemaker $4 billion more than it expected, an industry analyst said. Bankers in Britain are bouncing back   UPI / 2:44PM LONDON, Oct. 15 (UPI) -- The average Goldman Sachs employee in London will make $748,000 in 2009, despite the near-collapse of the financial system a year ago, market analysts said. NYC real-estate scam alleged   UPI / 12:54PM NEW YORK, Oct. 15 (UPI) -- A reputed con man pleaded not guilty to charges he tried to defraud New York City Marathon organizers and others by trying to sell a building he didn't own. New York manufacturing increases in month   UPI / 10:34AM NEW YORK, Oct. 15 (UPI) -- The New York Federal Reserve said manufacturing conditions reflected in a monthly survey rose to the highest level in five years in October.

Wednesday, October 14 Activists hit restaurants on egg sources   UPI / 9:24PM LOS ANGELES, Oct. 14 (UPI) -- An animal rights group says it is urging the parent company of two U.S. restaurant chains to buy eggs from suppliers that treat chickens humanely. Oil extends rally for sixth day   UPI / 6:54PM NEW YORK, Oct. 14 (UPI) -- Crude oil extended a rally for a sixth day Wednesday with prices climbing above $75 per barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange. Grain futures close higher Wednesday   UPI / 6:44PM CHICAGO, Oct. 14 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed mostly higher on the Chicago Board of Trade Wednesday after equities in New York turned in strong gains. White House, senators mull reform   UPI / 6:34PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 14 (UPI) -- The stage was set Wednesday for U.S. Senate and White House negotiators to begin hammering out a compromise healthcare reform package, officials said. Partner abuse increases health problems   UPI / 2:54PM COLUMBUS, Ohio, Oct. 14 (UPI) -- A study of 3,568 women found those abused by intimate partners have higher rates of a wide variety of medical maladies, U.S. researchers say. Cuba won't let blogger travel to U.S.   UPI / 2:54PM NEW YORK, Oct. 14 (UPI) -- A Cuban blogger who criticizes the Castro government won't be in New York Wednesday to receive a prestigious journalism award, Columbia University says. Country Acres turkey, quail feed recalled   UPI / 12:34PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 14 (UPI) -- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced the limited recall of Country Acres-brand turkey and quail starter feed because of a formulation error. Insurance group targeting Detroit arsons   UPI / 12:24PM DETROIT, Oct. 14 (UPI) -- A coalition of insurance companies says it will spend $1 million on a program to fight arson in Detroit and the rest of Wayne County. Retail, minus autos, held up in September   UPI / 12:24PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 14 (UPI) -- Retail sales fell 1.5 percent in September from August, but many sectors outside of autos showed positive numbers, the U.S. Commerce Department said Wednesday. Mortgage activity fell in week   UPI / 11:34AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 14 (UPI) -- The volume of applications for U.S. mortgages decreased 1.8 percent last week as interest rates rose slightly, an industry trade group said. Paper trail sheds light on Merrill merger   UPI / 11:34AM CHARLOTTE, N.C., Oct. 14 (UPI) -- The paper trail concerning Bank of America's purchase of Merrill Lynch shows the deal was a dubious proposition to some of the U.S. firm's executive team. Latino farmers to argue discrim case   UPI / 11:24AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 13 (UPI) -- Latino farmers had planned to press a discrimination case in Washington Tuesday, arguing they were denied Agriculture Department loans based on their heritage. Oil companies reserved about Iraq   UPI / 10:24AM BAGHDAD, Oct. 14 (UPI) -- Oil companies may hold back from a new round of bidding for development contracts in Iraq due to the lack of a legal infrastructure, industry analysts said. Wood being used to make electricity   UPI / 10:24AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 14 (UPI) -- The push for renewable energy has some power plants across the United States turning to wood to make electricity, industry sources say. West Bank settlers demand compensation   UPI / 7:44AM JERUSALEM, Oct. 14 (UPI) -- Settler leaders in the West Bank are demanding compensation from the government for imposing a building freeze they say harms their communities, officials said. Georgia does without stimulus signs   UPI / 1:34AM ATLANTA, Oct. 14 (UPI) -- Georgia will stop posting signs along highway construction projects funded by economic stimulus funds, because the signs cost too much money, officials said.

Tuesday, October 13 4.5M vehicles involved in Ford recall   UPI / 11:24PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 13 (UPI) -- Ford Motor Co. launched its largest recall ever Tuesday, warning drivers of 4.5 million cars and trucks a badly designed switch could cause vehicle fires. N.Y. experiment tests healthcare reform   UPI / 8:24PM LAKE GEORGE, N.Y., Oct. 13 (UPI) -- An experiment in New York's Adirondacks will provide a real-world test of several concepts adopted by national healthcare reform, health officials said. Crude oil prices climb Tuesday   UPI / 7:54PM NEW YORK, Oct. 13 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices surged above $74 per barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange Tuesday after oil exporters forecast demand will increase this year and next. Philly construction worker falls to death   UPI / 7:24PM PHILADELPHIA, Oct. 13 (UPI) -- A construction-lift operator plunged to his death in Philadelphia when the lift toppled into a busy intersection, city officials said. Treasury Report: AIG Should Reduce Pay   AP / 6:34PM The U.S. inspector general overseeing the $700 billion financial bailout has said American International Group should reduce its retention pay package. Bank of America to Divulge Lawyers' Advice   AP / 4:34PM Bank of America's board of directors agreed to disclose legal advice connected to its purchase of Merrill Lynch in January, which is clouded in controversy. Tax amnesty deadline looms   UPI / 4:34PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 13 (UPI) -- U.S. taxpayers who dodged the Internal Revenue Service with offshore bank accounts are rushing to meet an amnesty deadline, a government official said. Bank of America to divulge lawyers' advice   UPI / 4:14PM NEW YORK, Oct. 13 (UPI) -- Bank of America's board of directors agreed to disclose legal advice connected to its purchase of Merrill Lynch in January, which is clouded in controversy. Holdout union delays Sun-Times sale   UPI / 2:34PM CHICAGO, Oct. 13 (UPI) -- A six-member union in Chicago, the last hurdle in the sale of bankrupt Sun-Times Media, is willing to wait for a better deal, a union representative said. Disney to merge retail with entertainment   UPI / 1:54PM LOS ANGELES, Oct. 13 (UPI) -- Walt Disney Co. said it would overhaul its 340 European and U.S. stores to include entertainment designed to keep customers shopping longer. GM chooses Docherty to head U.S. sales   UPI / 11:35AM DETROIT, Oct. 13 (UPI) -- General Motors Co. turned to an insider -- and for the first time a woman -- Susan Docherty, to replace the head of U.S. sales, Mark LaNeve. Superior Native Wins Nobel Prize   AP / 9:34AM Oct. 13--A Superior native has won the Nobel Prize in economics. Payday lenders oppose interest caps   UPI / 9:34AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 13 (UPI) -- A trade group of payday lenders said it would raise funds to lobby in Washington against bills that put a cap on interest rates they can charge borrowers. Nord Stream pipeline makes some vulnerable   UPI / 7:54AM MOSCOW, Oct. 13 (UPI) -- The building of the new Nord Stream gas pipeline means Russia is likely to play more pipeline politics with its former Soviet bloc neighbors, experts say. Insurance company drops 'fat baby' ban   UPI / 1:14AM DENVER, Oct. 13 (UPI) -- A Colorado insurance company will drop a ban on providing health coverage for infants considered to weigh too much for their length, a company spokeswoman said.

Monday, October 12 Schwarzenegger vetoes insurance bill   UPI / 8:54PM SACRAMENTO, Oct. 12 (UPI) -- California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger vetoed a bill that would restrict the ability of insurance companies to end policies of sick patients, his office said. Crude oil holds above $73 per barrel   UPI / 6:14PM NEW YORK, Oct. 12 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices climbed above $73 per barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange Monday following a strong week on Wall Street. Grain futures close sharply higher Monday   UPI / 5:14PM CHICAGO, Oct. 12 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed sharply higher on the Chicago Board of Trade on a light-trading Columbus Day holiday with equities mixed on Wall Street. Bear Stearns managers head for trial   UPI / 5:05PM NEW YORK, Oct. 12 (UPI) -- A federal judge in Brooklyn told prosecutors that personal earnings will not be part of a trial against ex-Bear Stearns' executives, which begins this week. Report: No truth to Conn. kidnapping story   UPI / 2:24PM GREENWICH, Conn., Oct. 12 (UPI) -- An August melee in a Connecticut parking lot was triggered by disagreements over money and wasn't connected to kidnapping, documents indicate. Highway accident kills hundreds of sheep   UPI / 12:34PM HEBER CITY, Utah, Oct. 12 (UPI) -- The Utah Highway Patrol said nearly 200 sheep died when a truck and livestock trailer tipped over along U.S. Highway 189. Bank of America loans trail in program   UPI / 11:44AM CHARLOTTE, N.C., Oct. 12 (UPI) -- A Bank of America lending executive said the U.S. lender did not relish its low ranking among banks helping struggling homeowners with loan modifications. Auto dealerships facing a tough year   UPI / 9:05AM DETROIT, Oct. 12 (UPI) -- The National Automobile Dealers Association said about 2,000 U.S. car dealerships are expected to close in 2009, as sales remain slow.

Sunday, October 11 Report: Canada snubs U.S. on detainees   UPI / 9:44PM OTTAWA, Oct. 11 (UPI) -- Canada has turned a deaf ear to U.S. requests it consider taking in terror suspects held at the prison at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, the Toronto Star reports. LaHood focused on fuel economy, safety   UPI / 6:34PM DETROIT, Oct. 11 (UPI) -- U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood is focused on automakers' efforts to address safety issues and fuel economy, officials said. Floods hit Indonesia   UPI / 5:54PM TOLITOLI, Indonesia, Oct. 11 (UPI) -- Farms and highways in Indonesia's central Sulawesi province have been inundated by floodwaters brought on by heavy rains, officials said Sunday. Health cost-cutting measures dropped   UPI / 5:35PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 11 (UPI) -- U.S. special interests have been chipping away at cost containment aspects of proposed healthcare reform measures, analysts say. Media summit urges fair, impartial news   UPI / 5:24PM BEIJING, Oct. 11 (UPI) -- Journalists attending the World Media Summit in Beijing have called for more fair and impartial coverage of the news. Governors disagree on stimulus effect   UPI / 1:34PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 11 (UPI) -- Two Midwestern U.S. governors say they have differing views on the effects of federal economic stimulus measures. Toxic commercial loans plague small banks   UPI / 11:05AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 11 (UPI) -- Toxic commercial real estate assets held by small U.S. banks are threatening their survival and the broader economy, analysts say.

Saturday, October 10 WSJ to overtake USA Today in circulation   UPI / 8:14PM NEW YORK, Oct. 10 (UPI) -- It's looking like The Wall Street Journal will overtake USA Today as the largest U.S. newspaper by weekday circulation when new figures come out this month. U.S. Exports Stall After Hefty Gains   AP / 6:34PM Oct. 10--U.S. exports rose only slightly in August after months of hefty gains, a sign that the global economy could be slower to recover than economists had hoped. Expert: Objections may doom Opel deal   UPI / 1:14PM BERLIN, Oct. 10 (UPI) -- Britain and Spain's objections to an international bid to buy General Motors' German Opel subsidiary may kill the deal, an analyst says. Food critic downplays McDonald's in Louvre   UPI / 1:14PM PARIS, Oct. 10 (UPI) -- A prominent French food critic says the plan to open a McDonald's fast-food restaurant in the Louvre museum in Paris is no big deal. Jordan to refill Dead Sea from Red Sea   UPI / 12:34PM AMMAN, Jordan, Oct. 10 (UPI) -- Jordan's plan to refill the Dead Sea with water from the Red Sea could damage ecosystems in both bodies of water, environmentalists warn. China mine fire kills six, traps seven   UPI / 12:14PM SHENYANG, China, Oct. 10 (UPI) -- Fire has killed at least six people and trapped seven more in a coal mine in northeastern China's Liaoning province, authorities said. Chinese glass imports irk manufacturers   UPI / 10:14AM NEW YORK, Oct. 10 (UPI) -- Imported Chinese glass being used to build the new World Trade Center in New York has irked U.S. manufacturers, analysts say. Obama: 'Unprecedented consensus' on reform   UPI / 6:14AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 10 (UPI) -- U.S. President Barack Obama said Saturday the intense debate over healthcare reform has brought "unprecedented consensus" on the need for reform.

Friday, October 9 French travel company buying Gandhi home   UPI / 6:14PM JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, Oct. 9 (UPI) -- A French travel firm has agreed to buy a house in suburban Johannesburg, South Africa, where Mahatma Gandhi spent three years as a young lawyer, its owners say. Crude oil prices rise Friday   UPI / 5:14PM NEW YORK, Oct. 9 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices rose above $72 per barrel Friday as equities turned in a positive day on Wall Street. Grain futures close mixed Friday   UPI / 5:05PM CHICAGO, Oct. 9 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed mixed on the Chicago Board of Trade Friday as the dollar made a slight comeback against the euro and the yen. Massachusetts awaits foreclosure ruling   UPI / 4:54PM SPRINGFIELD, Mass., Oct. 9 (UPI) -- A Massachusetts judge has cast a shadow over thousands of property transactions after invalidating two foreclosures, various attorneys say. BRIEF: Forecast Increases for Record Corn, Soybean Harvests   AP / 4:34PM Oct. 9--The projected record harvest for the state's corn and soybean crops just keeps growing. Citigroup to sell high salary unit   UPI / 2:34PM NEW YORK, Oct. 9 (UPI) -- Citigroup said Friday it would sell its commodity unit Phibro in a move that could sidestep a confrontation on executive pay with the U.S. Treasury. Floods force Wis. village to relocate   UPI / 1:34PM GAY MILLS, Wis., Oct. 9 (UPI) -- Residents of Gay Mills, Wis., plan to move their village to higher ground following two major floods that drove away a number of their neighbors. Fed torn on when to raise interest rates   UPI / 11:44AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 (UPI) -- The U.S. Federal Reserve's policy council is showing signs of increased disharmony regarding the timing of unwinding emergency financial programs. Bank of Korea leaves rates alone for now   UPI / 11:05AM SEOUL, Oct. 9 (UPI) -- The Bank of Korea kept its key lending rate at 2 percent for the eighth consecutive month Friday to support stability and growth, the bank said. Retail sales bump surprises retailers   UPI / 9:24AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 (UPI) -- U.S. retailers said a September jump in sales could be a good sign for holiday shopping, when many merchants rely on strong sales in order to survive.

Thursday, October 8 Treasury says help outpaces foreclosures   UPI / 6:14PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 (UPI) -- The pace of U.S. help for homeowners has surpassed that of homes being sold under foreclosure procedures, U.S. Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner said. Grain futures close higher Thursday   UPI / 4:34PM CHICAGO, Oct. 8 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed higher on the Chicago Board of Trade Thursday as the dollar fell and crude oil prices rose in New York. Banks behind on TARP dividends   UPI / 3:44PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 (UPI) -- Smaller U.S. banks not paying their Troubled Asset Relief Program dividends are concerned about their capital reserves, a finance research associate said. Sun-Times sale appears imminent   UPI / 2:44PM CHICAGO, Oct. 8 (UPI) -- A U.S. Bankruptcy Court judge approved the sale of Sun-Times Media Group Inc. to an investment group unions had previously rejected. CVS drops Chia Obama heads   UPI / 1:14PM WOONSOCKET, R.I., Oct. 8 (UPI) -- Rhode Island-based CVS/Pharmacy said its stores will no longer stock the Chia heads depicting President Barack Obama, months after a similar move by Walgreens. Business leaders lobby for climate bill   UPI / 12:24PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 (UPI) -- Green energy business leaders rolled into Washington this week to press senators to approve a climate change bill that passed the House in June. EU wades into Italian media debate   UPI / 12:14PM BRUSSELS, Oct. 8 (UPI) -- The European Union has entered the brawl over Italian press freedom, as some members called for sanctions and others accused the EU of interference. Mortgage rates at or near record lows   UPI / 11:44AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 (UPI) -- Interest rates for 30-year, fixed-rate U.S. mortgages fell in the week, remaining below 5 percent, the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. said Thursday. Drywall causing insurance problems in Fla.   UPI / 11:44AM PUNTA GORDA, Fla., Oct. 8 (UPI) -- Florida homeowners filing insurance claims for property repairs due to suspected Chinese drywall are being denied compensation, a lawyer says. ECB leaves lending rates unchanged   UPI / 11:06AM FRANKFURT, Germany, Oct. 8 (UPI) -- The European Central Bank held its overnight bank-to-bank lending rate at 1 percent Thursday, citing a "stabilizing" economy in the European Union. Canadian housing starts mixed in September   UPI / 10:24AM OTTAWA, Oct. 8 (UPI) -- Housing starts in Canada were down overall in September, although a significant jump was seen in urban single starts, the federal housing agency said Thursday. BOE keeps lending rate unchanged   UPI / 9:14AM LONDON, Oct. 8 (UPI) -- Policy makers at the Bank of England Thursday elected to keep the 0.5 percent lending rate steady for the seventh consecutive month, officials said. Employees to pay more for health insurance   UPI / 1:54AM CHICAGO, Oct. 8 (UPI) -- Employee contributions to healthcare coverage will rise in 2010 no matter what happens with healthcare reform in Washington, a survey indicates. Farmers at risk from medical debt   UPI / 1:54AM BOSTON, Oct. 8 (UPI) -- Farmers and ranchers with children are at increased risk of having medical debt, officials of a U.S. health advocacy group said. Economist: Extend homebuyers credit   UPI / 1:05AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 (UPI) -- Allowing the $8,000 credit for first-time U.S. homebuyers to expire Dec. 1 could lead to a sharp drop in house prices, a Democratic economic adviser says. State argues against new birth certificate   UPI / 12:44AM NEW ORLEANS, Oct. 8 (UPI) -- The Louisiana attorney general's office is arguing against issuing a new birth certificate for a child adopted by a gay couple, a lawyer with the office said.

Wednesday, October 7 Killing suspect may have hidden in Poland   UPI / 8:05PM WARSAW, Poland, Oct. 7 (UPI) -- A suspect in the killing of Russian journalist Anna Politkovskaya may have briefly taken refuge in Poland, officials say. Sun-Times unions, executives reach a deal   UPI / 6:05PM CHICAGO, Oct. 7 (UPI) -- Sun-Times Media Group Inc. union leaders agreed to a tentative deal to allow the Chicago company's rescue from bankruptcy, the only official bidder said. Grain futures close higher   UPI / 5:24PM CHICAGO, Oct. 7 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed higher on the Chicago Board of Trade Wednesday as the dollar was split, rising against the euro and falling against the yen. Hackers arrested in U.S. bank phish case   UPI / 5:05PM LOS ANGELES, Oct. 7 (UPI) -- The FBI says more than 100 suspects have been charged in the United States and Egypt in one of the largest cybercrime cases in history. GM's Head of U.S. Sales Leaving   AP / 3:34PM General Motors Co. said its head of U.S. sales, Mark LaNeve, would leave the company as part of a long-term shake up following its bankruptcy proceeding. Mortgage activity rises in week   UPI / 2:14PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 7 (UPI) -- The volume of applications for U.S. mortgages increased 16.4 percent last week as interest rates fell, an industry trade group said. Fed looks at pay policies beyond top tier   UPI / 12:04PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 7 (UPI) -- The U.S. Federal Reserve is reviewing options for pay policies for employees far beyond a bank's top executives, Chairman Ben Bernanke said.

Tuesday, October 6 Ohio woman produces 1,725-pound pumpkin   UPI / 5:05PM MASSILLON, Ohio, Oct. 6 (UPI) -- An Ohio couple have raised what could be the real Great Pumpkin, a monster weighing in at 1,725 pounds. Boeing to Take $1B Hit on 747 Freighter   AP / 4:35PM U.S. aerospace giant Boeing said it would likely lose money on the 747 jumbo jet freighter after taking a $1 billion third quarter charge on the program. Boeing to take $1B hit on 747 freighter   UPI / 4:14PM CHICAGO, Oct. 6 (UPI) -- U.S. aerospace giant Boeing said it would likely lose money on the 747 jumbo jet freighter after taking a $1 billion third quarter charge on the program. Shake up aside, Chrysler to split up Dodge   UPI / 3:44PM AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Oct. 6 (UPI) -- U.S. automaker Chrysler Group said the departure of two top executives would not derail an announcement of long-range plans expected in November. Canada's CanWest media chain in bankruptcy   UPI / 3:24PM TORONTO, Oct. 6 (UPI) -- Canada's CanWest Global Communications Corp. filed for bankruptcy protection in Toronto Tuesday for its newspaper and television companies. Renault to invest in AvtoVAZ   UPI / 2:44PM MOSCOW, Oct. 6 (UPI) -- Russian officials said French automaker Renault confirmed it would invest further in AvtoVAZ, maker of over 25 million Lada cars since 1970. Bank of Australia raises lending rate   UPI / 2:35PM SYDNEY, Oct. 6 (UPI) -- The Reserve Bank of Australia Tuesday became the first major central bank to raise lending rates in the Great Recession, citing renewed economic expansion. Police probing blasts along Ky. pipeline   UPI / 2:24PM LEXINGTON, Ky., Oct. 6 (UPI) -- Kentucky State Police are investigating a series of bombings along a water pipeline under construction, utility officials say. Goldman Sachs earmark denounced   UPI / 1:44PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 6 (UPI) -- A $3 million appropriations earmark for work at a California mine owned by profitable companies might be unnecessary, a non-partisan lobby group said. Dairy protest gets angrier   UPI / 12:24PM BRUSSELS, Oct. 6 (UPI) -- Dairy farmers in Brussels lit fires in the streets and hurled eggs to protest low milk prices, during an emergency meeting of Europe's agriculture ministers. Prepaid cards include fine print fees   UPI / 10:05AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 6 (UPI) -- Prepaid debit cards available at U.S. retail stores are not quite the care-free banking products advertisements portray, a consumer advocate said. U.S. retail braces for slow holiday season   UPI / 9:04AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 6 (UPI) -- High unemployment has put U.S. retailers on alert that the holiday shopping season will feature a sluggish recovery compared to a year ago, forecasters said.

Monday, October 5 U.S. crop harvests show progress   UPI / 7:14PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 5 (UPI) -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture said the winter wheat crop was in step with the five-year historic average, 26 percent emerged as of Oct. 4. Grain futures close mostly higher Monday   UPI / 6:34PM CHICAGO, Oct. 5 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed mostly higher Monday after stocks on Wall Street closed in the black following four consecutive trading sessions in the red. Sun Business Editor Killed in Baltimore County Crash: Daughter, 9, in Critical Condition After Accident at Intersection of York, Corbett Roads   AP / 5:35PM Oct. 5--A 48-year-old newsroom executive at The Baltimore Sun was killed Monday morning in a road accident near Hereford while driving his 9-year-old daughter to school. For Chrysler upscale is uphill   UPI / 5:24PM AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Oct. 5 (UPI) -- A Chrysler Group run at the U.S. luxury car market would be an uphill battle, several industry analysts said. BRIEF: A La Carte: Gourmet Magazine Goes Under   AP / 4:35PM Oct. 5--The cover closes on Gourmet Magazine Report: TARP funds oddly dispersed   UPI / 2:44PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 5 (UPI) -- The inspector general reviewing the $700 billion federal bank bailout program said some U.S. TARP funds were doled out inconsistently. New locomotive is free of emissions   UPI / 1:54PM ALTOONA, Pa., Oct. 5 (UPI) -- The Norfolk Southern Corp. says a new locomotive in Norfolk, Va., is emissions-free thanks to its energy source of 1,080 batteries. States keep their eye on offshore accounts   UPI / 11:34AM WASHINGTON, Conn., Oct. 5 (UPI) -- Several states have joined the U.S. government in granting time-limited leniency for taxpayers who have hidden funds in offshore bank accounts. Freed Palestinian inmate remains militant   UPI / 11:24AM JERUSALEM, Oct. 5 (UPI) -- A former Palestinian inmate released in exchange for a videotape of abducted Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit called for the kidnapping of more Israeli soldiers. U.S. equity firms leave debt trail   UPI / 9:34AM NEW YORK, Oct. 5 (UPI) -- Private equity firms own more than half the 220 U.S. companies that have defaulted on their debt in 2008, Standard & Poor's analysts said. U.S. governors balk at Medicaid expansion   UPI / 8:24AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 5 (UPI) -- Cash-strapped U.S. governors are moving to curtail a vast expansion of state Medicaid programs included in several healthcare reform measures, analysts say.

Sunday, October 4 Stonehenge gets facelift, still mystifies   UPI / 11:34PM AMESBURY, England, Oct. 4 (UPI) -- The area around Stonehenge, a 5,000-year-old monument in England, will be given a facelift and freed from unsightly surrounding traffic, officials said. Policy denials allowed for domestic abuse   UPI / 7:14PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 4 (UPI) -- U.S. insurance companies in eight states are not barred from using domestic violence as a pre-existing condition to deny coverage, a study indicates. Hemp legal Oregon, held back by U.S. law   UPI / 6:44PM PORTLAND, Ore., Oct. 4 (UPI) -- Industrial hemp is legal in Oregon but growers say they can't get on with their business until the federal government change its policies. Half-ton pumpkin wins N.Y. competition   UPI / 6:24PM CLARENCE, N.Y., Oct. 4 (UPI) -- A Pennsylvania man whose 1,040.5-pound pumpkin won the Great Pumpkin Weigh-Off in Clarence, N.Y., says the key to his success is water -- lots of it. Miami law firm eyed in Stanford scandal   UPI / 2:54PM MIAMI, Oct. 4 (UPI) -- A Miami law firm allegedly helped jailed financier R. Allen Stanford establish an unregulated money pipeline to Antigua, The Miami Herald reported Sunday. Pumpkin crop limited by poor weather   UPI / 1:14PM DANVERS, Mass., Oct. 4 (UPI) -- Farmers in eastern U.S. states like Massachusetts and Maine are seeing limited pumpkin crops due to bad weather in 2009, industry officials say.

Saturday, October 3 Displaced Ugandans get chance at farming   UPI / 7:24PM KAMPALA, Uganda, Oct. 3 (UPI) -- A rice-farming program will allow 1.5 million Ugandans to return home from displaced persons camps and learn agrarian skills, U.N. officials said. China safety crackdown boosts coal imports   UPI / 7:05PM SYDNEY, Oct. 3 (UPI) -- Australian coal companies say they are exporting to China for the first time as Beijing's latest push for mine safety has cut domestic output. First-time home buyers scramble for houses   UPI / 5:54PM BOSTON, Oct. 3 (UPI) -- Bidding wars have broken out in the Boston area, as first-time home buyers eager to take advantage of tax credits compete for houses, real estate agents say. Suit Seeks $199M From Madoff Relatives   AP / 4:34AM A court-appointed trustee has sued four relatives of Bernard Madoff, seeking $199 million the suit said they received as a result of his Ponzi scheme.

Friday, October 2 Czech building collapses, 4 missing   UPI / 7:14PM PRAGUE, Czech Republic, Oct. 2 (UPI) -- A search for survivors in a collapsed Prague building was halted Friday night due to the threat of further collapse, a spokesman for the rescue team said. Crude oil prices fall Friday   UPI / 6:14PM NEW YORK, Oct. 2 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices were down Friday, slipping below $70 per barrel after equities on Wall Street fell for the fourth consecutive day. Pipeline company can clean Baltic bottom   UPI / 6:14PM HELSINKI, Finland, Oct. 2 (UPI) -- The Russian-German joint venture planning a natural gas pipeline through the Baltic Sea can remove war material from the route, Finnish officials said. Grain futures lower Friday   UPI / 5:34PM CHICAGO, Oct. 2 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed lower on the Chicago Board of Trade Friday as equities dropped on Wall Street for the fourth consecutive day. Sanofi Pasteur Announces Delay in Seasonal Flu Shot Shipments   AP / 4:35PM Oct. 2--Some scheduled flu shot clinics may be postponed throughout Northeast Pennsylvania because of a delay by Swiftwater-based vaccine manufacturer Sanofi Pasteur. Pregnant Women Urged to Get Seasonal, Swine Flu Shots   AP / 2:35PM Oct. 2--WASHINGTON -- U.S. health officials on Thursday renewed their call for pregnant women to get the seasonal and swine flu vaccines after new data showed that 100 pregnant women had been hospitalized with swine flu through late August and 28 of them had died from complications of the illness. Bank of America forms CEO search committee   UPI / 2:24PM CHARLOTTE, N.C., Oct. 2 (UPI) -- U.S. financial giant Bank of America said it formed a search committee to find a replacement for beleaguered Chief Executive Officer Kenneth Lewis. Bailed-out AIG hosts $1M spa event   UPI / 12:24PM CHICAGO, Oct. 2 (UPI) -- A U.S. insurer that received billions of federal dollars to stay afloat is hosting a $1.27 million weekend spa conference, the Chicago Tribune reported Friday. Maryland embracing raw milk cheese   UPI / 12:05PM EASTON, Md., Oct. 2 (UPI) -- A couple in Easton, Md., say they have created the first legal batch of raw milk cheese in Maryland as part of a new test project by the state. Factory orders reverse trend   UPI / 11:24AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 2 (UPI) -- New orders for manufactured U.S. goods fell in August, after four consecutive months of increases, the U.S. Census Bureau reported Friday. Shop owner charged with arson   UPI / 11:14AM OCEAN CITY, N.J., Oct. 2 (UPI) -- Aggravated arson charges have been filed against a New Jersey store owner who was rescued from his burning gift shop earlier this week, police say. Police raid accountant offices in Iceland   UPI / 10:24AM REYKJAVIK, Iceland, Oct. 2 (UPI) -- Police raided two accounting offices in Reykjavik, Iceland, to find evidence of criminal action concerning bank collapses, a special investigator said. Newspaper to go free after 180 years   UPI / 8:44AM LONDON, Oct. 2 (UPI) -- More than 180 years as a paid-for newspaper will end as the London Evening Standard positions itself as a free newspaper, its new Russian owner said.

Thursday, October 1 Car Sales Return to Pre-Clunker Slump   AP / 6:34PM U.S. auto sales fell back to earth in September with the end of the federal rebate program designed to spur sales and push fuel efficiency. Grain futures close lower Thursday   UPI / 6:24PM CHICAGO, Oct. 1 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed lower on the Chicago Board of Trade Thursday as equities on Wall Street tumbled hard on the first day of the fourth quarter. LA Times, Post news service calls it quits   UPI / 4:05PM LOS ANGELES, Oct. 1 (UPI) -- The 47-year-old Los Angeles Times-Washington Post News Service came to an end with a seemingly amicable divorce, two newspaper executives said. New York bridges in need of repair   UPI / 3:05PM NEW YORK, Oct. 1 (UPI) -- A trade group says 10 bridges in New York are in potentially dangerous condition and need to be repaired to protect the city's residents. BOA's Lewis may signal a turn in banking   UPI / 2:54PM CHARLOTTE, N.C., Oct. 1 (UPI) -- Kenneth Lewis' resignation from the top job at Bank of America may signify a bubble has burst in large-scale U.S. banking, a finance professor said. Plug says Coke plant adding hydrogen lifts   UPI / 1:24PM CHARLOTTE, N.C., Oct. 1 (UPI) -- A company that produces hydrogen fuel cells says the second-largest Coca-Cola bottler in the United States will begin using hydrogen-powered forklifts. U.S. manufacturing growth slows slightly   UPI / 12:54PM TEMPE, Ariz., Oct. 1 (UPI) -- The Institute of Supply Management said Thursday U.S. manufacturing activity rose for the second consecutive month in September. First time jobless claims gain by 17,000   UPI / 12:24PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 1 (UPI) -- First-time claims for U.S. unemployment insurance jumped by 17,000 during the week ending Sept. 26, the U.S. Department of Labor reported Thursday. 30-year mortgage rates near record low   UPI / 11:05AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 1 (UPI) -- Interest rates for 30-year, fixed-rate U.S. mortgages fell close to the March record low, in the week, the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. said Thursday. Canada imposes credit card clampdowns   UPI / 10:44AM OTTAWA, Oct. 1 (UPI) -- The Canadian government announced new regulations for credit card issuers that redefine payment grace periods and mandates more disclosure on pay-off terms. Shalit family anxious to see their son   UPI / 8:24AM JERUSALEM, Oct. 1 (UPI) -- For the first time since his kidnapping, Noam and Aviva Shalit will see the face and hear the voice of their son in a one-minute video tape, officials said.

Wednesday, September 30 $13,000 at Goodwill returned to owner   UPI / 7:44PM MARSHFIELD, Wis., Sept. 30 (UPI) -- Employees at a Wisconsin thrift store said they discovered $13,000 in a box of donated shoes and returned it to its owner using a receipt to track her down. Grain futures close mostly higher   UPI / 7:44PM CHICAGO, Sept. 30 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed mostly higher on the Chicago Board of Trade Wednesday while equities wobbled, and then closed lower on Wall Street. GM ending production of Saturn brand   UPI / 7:05PM BLOOMFIELD HILLS, Mich., Sept. 30 (UPI) -- General Motors Co. said it would end production of the 19-year old Saturn brand after Michigan's Penske Automotive Group Inc. ended talks on rescuing the car. Bank of America's Ken Lewis to retire   UPI / 6:14PM CHARLOTTE, N.C., Sept. 30 (UPI) -- Bank of America Chief Executive Officer and President Kenneth Lewis will retire at the end of the year, the bank announced Wednesday. U.S. bank fees continue to rise   UPI / 1:14PM NEW YORK, Sept. 30 (UPI) -- U.S. bank fees are continuing to rise, despite a renewed focus on bank practices, researchers at Bankrate.com said. Poll: Individuals responsible for health   UPI / 12:05PM PRINCETON, N.J., Sept. 30 (UPI) -- Sixty-one percent of Americans say individuals rather than the government have "primary responsibility" for ensuring healthcare, a Gallup Poll indicates. Canadian GDP flat in July   UPI / 9:34AM OTTAWA, Sept. 30 (UPI) -- Canada's gross domestic product was flat in July as gains in manufacturing and wholesale trade were offset by declines in other sectors, Statistics Canada said. Bill Clinton touts support for Haiti   UPI / 7:44AM CORAL GABLES, Fla., Sept. 30 (UPI) -- Former U.S. President Bill Clinton says the impoverished nation of Haiti is getting more support from its Latin American neighbors.

Tuesday, September 29 LeNature executive indicted   UPI / 5:24PM LATROBE, Pa., Sept. 29 (UPI) -- Federal authorities have charged five LeNature executives and advisers with defrauding U.S. banks and investors of $800 million. FDIC Takes First Steps Toward Raising $45 Billion From Banks   AP / 4:34PM WASHINGTON -- Federal regulators on Tuesday proposed raising an additional $45 billion from the nation's banks to help rebuild the fund that insures customer deposits as an increasing number of failures threaten to drain the fund's reserves. Sun-Times has unnamed suitor   UPI / 4:24PM CHICAGO, Sept. 29 (UPI) -- The executive director of the Chicago Newspaper Guild said a second prospective buyer had shown interest in buying the hobbled Chicago Sun-Times Media. Creditors file to liquidate in Las Vegas   UPI / 3:34PM LAS VEGAS, Sept. 29 (UPI) -- Creditors holding debt for the bankrupt Fontainebleau Las Vegas want developer Jeffery Soffer cut from the project, court papers show. Big diamond found in South Africa   UPI / 2:34PM CULLINAN, South Africa, Sept. 29 (UPI) -- A 507.6-carat white diamond, one of the largest ever found, has been discovered at a mine in South Africa, the mining company announced Tuesday. British GDP meets expectations   UPI / 1:24PM LONDON, Sept. 29 (UPI) -- The British economy shrank 0.6 percent in the second quarter, in line with expectations, the Office of National Statistics said Tuesday. Starbucks Launches Instant Coffee Via Nationwide   AP / 12:34PM SEATTLE -- Almost seven months after unveiling its new instant coffee in Seattle and Chicago, Starbucks is taking it national -- and to Canada -- Tuesday. Ex-Czech secret agent draws prison term   UPI / 12:34PM OLOMOUC, Czech Republic, Sept. 29 (UPI) -- Former Communist secret police agent Pavel Minarik must serve up to six years in prison for insurance fraud, a Czech Republic court ruled. USDA loan bias case wrapping up   UPI / 12:34PM WASHINGTON, Sept. 29 (UPI) -- Native American farmers suing the U.S. Department of Agriculture may be owed $1 billion in lost income, the lead attorney in a class-action lawsuit said.

Monday, September 28 Grain futures mixed Monday   UPI / 6:14PM CHICAGO, Sept. 28 (UPI) -- U.S. grain futures closed mixed Monday on the Chicago Board of Trade as equities surged on Wall Street. Corn harvest late but under way   UPI / 5:54PM WASHINGTON, Sept. 28 (UPI) -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture said 6 percent of the nation's corn crop was harvested, against a 5-year average of 18 percent for this time of year. Shops getting into Christmas spirit early   UPI / 5:05PM BOSTON, Sept. 28 (UPI) -- Ready or not, U.S. retailers are pushing the Christmas shopping season earlier this year to make up for slow summer sales, a marketing expert said. Abbott Labs Announces Deal for Pharmaceutical Business of Belgian's Solvay: $6B Deal Would Be North Chicago Firm's 2nd-Largest Acquisition   AP / 3:35PM Sep. 28--Abbott Laboratories announced Monday morning the purchase of the pharmaceutical business of Belgian plastics and chemical giant Solvay SA for $6.6 billion in cash for the second-largest acquisition in company history. Hedge fund chief dies in escalator plunge   UPI / 3:14PM ATLANTIC CITY, N.J., Sept. 28 (UPI) -- Atlantic City, N.J., police say they are investigating the weekend death of a New York hedge fund manager who fell off a shopping mall escalator. British home prices signal turnaround   UPI / 1:14PM LONDON, Sept. 28 (UPI) -- Home prices in Britain rose 0.2 percent in September -- the second consecutive monthly increase, Hometrack said. Buzek brings new view on Russia to EU   UPI / 10:24AM BRUSSELS, Sept. 28 (UPI) -- The first European Parliament president to come from a former Iron Curtain state says he is bringing a different perspective on Russia to the European Union. Confusing healthcare polls vex politicians   UPI / 10:05AM WASHINGTON, Sept. 28 (UPI) -- Contradictory polling data about Americans' feelings on healthcare reform measures have left U.S. politicians confused, observers say. States rush to borrow at low interest rate   UPI / 10:05AM WASHINGTON, Sept. 28 (UPI) -- Low interest rates have prompted U.S. state and local governments to increase their borrowing, Federal Reserve records show.

Sunday, September 27 China eyes U.S. chicken import complaints   UPI / 3:34PM BEIJING, Sept. 27 (UPI) -- Chicken products imported into China from the United States are being scrutinized for possible trade violations, Chinese officials say.

Saturday, September 26 Chrysler eyes Fiat tech for midsize sedans   UPI / 10:54AM DETROIT, Sept. 26 (UPI) -- Officials of U.S. automaker Chrysler Group LLC are determining how to use Fiat expertise to build future products such as midsize sedans, sources say.

Friday, September 25 Ford to build plant in China   UPI / 11:44PM DEARBORN, Mich., Sept. 25 (UPI) -- Ford Motor Co. said Friday it is pushing further into China's market, moving ahead with construction of a new joint-venture plant in Chongqing. Crude oil prices top $66 per barrel   UPI / 5:44PM NEW YORK, Sept. 25 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices topped $66 per barrel Friday on slight gains after prices slipped most of the week. Grain futures closed mixed Friday   UPI / 5:05PM CHICAGO, Sept. 25 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed mixed Friday on the Chicago Board of Trade as the dollar lost ground against the euro and the yen. Malawi trying to enforce child labor laws   UPI / 3:24PM LONDON, Sept. 25 (UPI) -- Malawi is paying more attention to its child labor laws after a report revealed thousands of children working on tobacco farms, Plan International says. Widow files suit to clear name   UPI / 3:14PM SAN DIEGO, Sept. 25 (UPI) -- Cynthia Sommer, the Marine widow convicted of murder and freed when prosecutors dropped the case, has filed a $20 million federal lawsuit against authorities. Home buyers rush as tax credit near close   UPI / 2:44PM WASHINGTON, Sept. 25 (UPI) -- An $8,000 tax credit for first-time U.S. home buyers is set to end Nov. 30, putting buyers close to the wire, given the time it takes to close on a house. Web site picks 'great factory tours'   UPI / 2:34PM MANHATTAN BEACH, Calif., Sept. 25 (UPI) -- The Harley Davidson factory in Kansas City, Mo., and its counterparts across the country topped a California-based Web site's list of "great factory tours." Durable good orders fell in August   UPI / 12:24PM WASHINGTON, Sept. 25 (UPI) -- U.S. durable goods orders fell more than expected in August, dropping 2.4 percent, the Commerce Department reported Friday.