World bids a relieved adieu to a rocky year

SYDNEY, Australia (AP) -- Fireworks exploded in a kaleidoscopic shower of light over Sydney's shimmering harbor Wednesday, as the world's first major city to ring in 2009 celebrated the end of a decidedly rocky year with cheers, beers and a sense of relief....
Source: AP Top International News At 8:35 a... | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:36 pm

The top 20 iPhone games of 2008

The infant iPhone game industry established a few characteristics during the first six months of its life: there will be plenty of highlights to fill the family album as it...
Source: Home - BostonHerald.com | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:35 pm

Bomb explodes in Spain's Basque area, no one hurt

MADRID, Spain - A car bomb exploded today outside a regional television station in northern Spain following a warning call from the armed separatist group ETA, police said. The...
Source: Home - BostonHerald.com | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:33 pm

Israeli security cabinet rejects Gaza truce proposals: official (AFP)

AFP - The Israeli security cabinet has rejected international proposals for a truce in its offensive on Hamas in Gaza, a senior government official told AFP on Wednesday.

Source: Yahoo! News: Top Stories | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:29 pm

Students push for suicide bombers to attack Israel

TEHRAN, Iran - Hard-line Iranian student groups have appealed to the government to authorize volunteer suicide bombers to leave Iran and fight against Israel in response...
Source: Home - BostonHerald.com | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:29 pm

'Colbert,' 'SpongeBob' may go dark on Time Warner (AP)

AP - "SpongeBob SquarePants" may be getting squeezed off of Time Warner Cable.

Source: Yahoo! News: Top Stories | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:28 pm

Israeli security cabinet rejects Gaza truce proposals: official

JERUSALEM (AFP) - The Israeli security cabinet has rejected international proposals for a truce in its offensive on Hamas in Gaza, a senior government official told AFP on Wednesday.
Source: AFP - Wire stories | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:28 pm

Volunteer suicide bombers seek to attack Israel

TEHRAN, Iran (AP) -- Hard-line Iranian student groups have appealed to the government to authorize volunteer suicide bombers to leave Iran and fight against Israel in response to the Israeli assault on the Gaza Strip....
Source: AP Top International News At 8:35 a... | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:27 pm

Volunteer suicide bombers seek to attack Israel (AP)

AP - Hard-line Iranian student groups have appealed to the government to authorize volunteer suicide bombers to leave Iran and fight against Israel in response to the Israeli assault on the Gaza Strip.

Source: Yahoo! News: Top Stories | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:27 pm

Ambassador: Israel Wants Durable Fix To Gaza

Israel has rejected international calls to suspend its air offensive against Hamas targets in Gaza. A French proposal for a two-way pause in the violence was dismissed Wednesday. Sallai Meridor. Israel's ambassador to Washington, says Israel wants a more durable and sustainable solution to the situation in Gaza.

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Source: NPR Topics: News | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:27 pm

Amid worries, Cuba to mark 50 years of revolution (Reuters)

Reuters - Against a backdrop of economic gloom and the frail health of former leader Fidel Castro, Cuba will mark on Thursday the 50th anniversary of the revolution that turned the island into a communist state and Cold War hot spot at the doorstep of the United States.
Source: Yahoo! News: Top Stories | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:26 pm

Judge awards $65M to men taken from USS Pueblo

WASHINGTON (AP) -- A federal judge on Tuesday awarded more than $65 million to several men who were captured and tortured by North Korea after the communist country seized the U.S. spy ship USS Pueblo during the Cold War. North Korea never responded to the lawsuit filed by William Thomas Massie, Donald Raymond McClarren, Dunnie Richard Tuck and the estate of Lloyd Bucher. U.S. District Judge Henry H. Kennedy Jr. entered the judgment against the country....
Source: AP Top International News At 8:35 a... | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:25 pm

Somali insurgents vow to keep fighting

MOGADISHU, Somalia (AP) -- A powerful insurgent group poised to take over Somalia said Wednesday it will fight until the country is ruled by Islamic law, even as Ethiopian troops who have been propping up the government packed up to leave....
Source: AP Top International News At 8:35 a... | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:24 pm

Somali insurgents vow to keep fighting

A powerful insurgent group poised to take over Somalia said Wednesday it will fight until the country is ruled by Islamic law, even as Ethiopian troops who have been propping up the...
Source: RSS feed - channel BNewsWorld | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:24 pm

Israel says Gaza truce proposal unrealistic

GAZA (Reuters) - Israel on Wednesday rebuffed French calls for a 48-hour humanitarian truce in the Gaza Strip and stepped up preparations for a possible ground offensive after Hamas's long-range rockets hit a major population center.
Source: Reuters: Top News | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:24 pm

Thailand anti-government protests suspended

BANGKOK, Thailand (AP) -- Anti-government protesters Wednesday vowed to renew demonstrations that have plagued Thailand over the past year after taking a break for the New Year holidays....
Source: AP Top International News At 8:35 a... | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:23 pm

Thailand anti-government protests suspended

Anti-government protesters Wednesday vowed to renew demonstrations that have plagued Thailand over the past year after taking a break for the New Year holidays. But after a year of...
Source: RSS feed - channel BNewsWorld | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:23 pm

Oil falls below $38 in light New Year's Eve trade

VIENNA, Austria - Resurgent economic jitters sent oil prices below $38 a barrel today, as investors focused on the global slowdown that has dragged crude markets down some...
Source: Home - BostonHerald.com | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:22 pm

Hair today, gone tomorrow? India moustaches face chop

The famous beards and moustaches of India - seen as representing the face of the country to the outside world - are under threat, a new book says.
Source: BBC News | World | UK Edition | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:22 pm

Hundreds in Mich., NYC, LOS protest Gaza attack

DEARBORN, Mich. (AP) -- Israel's military strikes on the Gaza Strip prompted pro-Palestinian protests in America, with marchers denouncing the violence in the Detroit suburb of Dearborn, New York City and Los Angeles....
Source: AP Top International News At 8:35 a... | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:21 pm

Hundreds in Mich., NYC, LOS protest Gaza attack

Israel's military strikes on the Gaza Strip prompted pro-Palestinian protests in America, with marchers denouncing the violence in the Detroit suburb of Dearborn, New York City and Los...
Source: RSS feed - channel BNewsWorld | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:21 pm

Israel Rejects Two-Day Truce In Gaza

Israeli warplanes have made more airstrikes into Gaza as key world powers pressure Israel and Hamas to call a truce. Hamas, meanwhile, is keeping up its rocket barrages into southern Israel. Israeli officials have turned down a call for a two-day truce in Gaza so medical, food and relief supplies could get in.

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Source: NPR Topics: News | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:21 pm

Vulnerable Israeli homefront rethinks withdrawals

ASHDOD, Israel (AP) -- As Arab rockets reach ever deeper into Israel, they may be weakening what for years has been a cornerstone of Mideast peace efforts - an exchange of land for peace....
Source: AP Top International News At 8:35 a... | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:20 pm

Volunteer suicide bombers seek to attack Israel

Hard-line Iranian student groups have appealed to the government to authorize volunteer suicide bombers to leave Iran and fight against Israel in response to the Israeli assault on the...
Source: RSS feed - channel BNewsWorld | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:19 pm

On Saddam anniversary, Iraq readies macabre museum

BAGHDAD (Reuters) - The man putting together Iraq's newest museum doesn't like to be alone in his office, where he keeps bloodied nooses, a medieval-looking torture device and boxes of documents chronicling atrocities under Saddam Hussein.
Source: Reuters: Top News | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:18 pm

Dell shakes up management ranks, shifts focus

ROUND ROCK, Texas - Computer maker Dell Inc. said Wednesday that Michael Cannon, president of global operations, and Mark Jarvis, chief marketing officer, will leave the...
Source: Home - BostonHerald.com | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:18 pm

Gazprom warns of 'danger' to Europe gas supply

MOSCOW (AFP) - Gas giant Gazprom warned Wednesday that Russian gas supply to western Europe was in "danger" of disruption and accused Ukraine of blackmail, as another New Year's Eve energy dispute went down to the wire.
Source: AFP - Wire stories | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:18 pm

Pakistani investigators find Mumbai link: report

ISLAMABAD (Reuters) - Pakistani investigators have unearthed substantive links between the gunmen who attacked Mumbai in November and a banned Pakistani Islamist militant group, the Wall Street Journal reported.
Source: Reuters: Top News | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:15 pm

Pakistani investigators find Mumbai link: report (Reuters)

Reuters - Pakistani investigators have unearthed substantive links between the gunmen who attacked Mumbai in November and a banned Pakistani Islamist militant group, the Wall Street Journal reported.

Source: Yahoo! News: Top Stories | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:15 pm

Sydney welcomes New Year with fireworks spectacular

SYDNEY (AFP) - A record crowd of up to 1.5 million people kicked off global New Year celebrations with a fireworks extravaganza over Sydney's iconic harbour and Opera House Thursday.
Source: AFP - Wire stories | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:15 pm

Tagg Romney's firm hires Mo. governor

Outgoing Missouri Gov. Matt Blunt has been hired by a Bay State private equity firm headed by a son of former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney. Blunt - an early supporter...
Source: Home - BostonHerald.com | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:14 pm

Biotech center to dish out grants, tax breaks

Six months after the state Legislature approved a $1 billion life sciences investment plan, the money is about to start flowing. The Massachusetts Life Sciences Center...
Source: Home - BostonHerald.com | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:12 pm

Arkansas beats No. 4 Oklahoma 96-88 - USA Today

Source: Google News | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:12 pm

Wednesday eye-opener: What NFL coach should have kept his job? - USA Today

Source: Google News | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:12 pm

No Cease-Fire: Israel Keeps Up Pressure on Hamas

Israel's leadership says any cease-fire now wouldn't "lead to a real solution."
Source: ABC News: International | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:12 pm

Dane Cook's business-manager brother accused of stealing

Comedian Dane Cook's business-manager brother has been arrested and charged with embezzling millions of dollars from the Arlington-raised entertainer. Darryl J....
Source: Home - BostonHerald.com | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:11 pm

State on mission to reduce falls by seniors

Fatal falls - already the leading accidental cause of death to seniors - have doubled in Massachusetts, putting a strain on the state's health care system and prompting...
Source: Home - BostonHerald.com | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:10 pm

Pike to test-shut onramp

Traffic engineers have a theory that three-mile morning backups on the Mass Pike heading into the city could stem from a West Newton onramp. To test the theory, MassPike...
Source: Home - BostonHerald.com | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:10 pm

Volunteer suicide bombers seek to attack Israel - The Associated Press

Source: Google News | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:10 pm

World bids a relieved adieu to a rocky year (AP)

AP - Amid the jubilation and celebration of New Year's Eve, another feeling is present for many as a decidedly rocky 2008 comes to a close: relief.

Source: Yahoo! News: Top Stories | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:09 pm

Charles Barkley arrested on suspicion of DUI

Charles Barkley was arrested on suspicion of drinking and driving early Wednesday morning.
Source: Newsvine - Get Smarter Here | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:09 pm

Battered Bangladesh sees some hope in vote results - Reuters

Source: Google News | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:09 pm

More Gulf industrial projects at risk after Dow - Reuters

Source: Google News | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:08 pm

Democrats' struggle over filling Obama seat (AP)

AP - Rep. Bobby Rush says he doesn't think any U.S. senator would be caught turning a black man away from serving alongside them.

Source: Yahoo! News: Top Stories | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:06 pm

Italy's Alitalia takes over Air One

Alitalia on Wednesday completed the takeover of its smaller competitor Air One as part of a plan to relaunch Italy's bankrupt national carrier.
Source: Newsvine - Get Smarter Here | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:05 pm

Mumbai evidence clear, says India

India's home minister says there is ample evidence on who carried out the Mumbai attacks and Pakistan is "in denial".
Source: BBC News | World | UK Edition | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:05 pm

Online holiday sales fall 3 percent

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Online sales for the holiday period up to December 23 fell 3 percent from the same period last year, marking the first decline in online spending since comScore Inc started tracking online sales in 2001.
Source: Reuters: Top News | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:05 pm

ADVISORY - End of KWS news cycle for Dec. 31+

(Kyodo) _ Kyodo World Service now closes the news cycle for Wednesday, Dec. 31. The service will reopen at 9 a.m. Thursday Tokyo time. We may reopen the service at any moment to cover...
Source: RSS feed - channel BNewsWorld | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:04 pm

‘Colbert,' ‘SpongeBob' may go dark on Time Warner

Dispute with Viacom over carriage fees could disrupt programming

Source: The Globe and Mail - Front Page News | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:04 pm

Experiment, change tax code to cover more - Atlanta Journal Constitution

Source: Google News | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:03 pm

Pakistan Kills 3 on Afghan Supply Route

Pakistani troops kill 3 militants to secure U.S. supply route to Afghanistan.
Source: ABC News: International | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:03 pm

Pakistan kills 3 in Afghan supply route operation

PESHAWAR, Pakistan (AP) -- Pakistani troops killed three militants in an operation to secure the major supply route to U.S. and NATO troops in Afghanistan, an official said Wednesday....
Source: AP Top International News At 8:35 a... | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:02 pm

Pakistan kills 3 in Afghan supply route operation (AP)

AP - Pakistani troops killed three militants in an operation to secure the major supply route to U.S. and NATO troops in Afghanistan, an official said Wednesday.

Source: Yahoo! News: Top Stories | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:02 pm

Democrats' struggle over filling Obama seat - The Associated Press

Source: Google News | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:00 pm

Uganda: Troops will protect against rebel attacks

KAMPALA, Uganda (AP) -- Three African nations are deploying troops to remote eastern Congo after reports that Ugandan rebels killed more than 400 people in a series of massacres since Christmas, officials said Wednesday....
Source: AP Top International News At 8:35 a... | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:00 pm

Uganda: Troops will protect against rebel attacks

Three African nations are deploying troops to remote eastern Congo after reports that Ugandan rebels killed more than 400 people in a series of massacres since Christmas, officials said...
Source: RSS feed - channel BNewsWorld | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:00 pm

Israel Rejects 48-Hour Gaza Cease-Fire

Israeli officials have decided to reject an immediate 48-hour pause in a devastating five-day offensive against Hamas in Gaza. The intense bombing continues, but there is still no definite sign the Israelis will send ground forces in.
Source: World News: CBSNews.com | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:00 pm

A Society in the Forest, Banding Together to Escape Persecution - New York Times

Source: Google News | 31 Dec 2008 | 12:54 pm

Singapore economy slows with 1.5% growth for 2008+

(Kyodo) _ Singapore's full year economic growth slowed to 1.5 percent for 2008 due to the onslaught of the global economic crisis, Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said Wednesday.
Source: RSS feed - channel BNewsWorld | 31 Dec 2008 | 12:53 pm

Palestinian Lawmaker Pushes Non-Violence In Gaza

Israel rejected a truce Wednesday in its five-day offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip. The current violence erupted after a six-month ceasefire brokered by Egypt expired last week. Mustafa Barghouthi, an independent lawmaker in the West Bank city of Ramallah, says Palestians believe non-violence is the best way to pursue their struggle.

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Source: NPR Topics: News | 31 Dec 2008 | 12:52 pm

Record stock market falls in 2008

Asian shares see record falls in 2008 as the financial turmoil and economic slowdown ends the stock market boom.
Source: BBC News | World | UK Edition | 31 Dec 2008 | 12:51 pm

Israel rejects truce call, attacks Gaza

GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip (AP) -- Israel rejected international pressure to suspend its air offensive against Palestinian militants whose rocket barrages are striking close to the Israeli heartland, sending warplanes Wednesday to demolish smuggling tunnels that are the lifeline of Gaza's Islamic Hamas rulers....
Source: AP Top International News At 8:35 a... | 31 Dec 2008 | 12:49 pm

Israel rejects truce call, attacks Gaza (AP)

AP - Israel rejected international pressure to suspend its air offensive against Palestinian militants whose rocket barrages are striking close to the Israeli heartland, sending warplanes Wednesday to demolish smuggling tunnels that are the lifeline of Gaza's Islamic Hamas rulers.

Source: Yahoo! News: Top Stories | 31 Dec 2008 | 12:49 pm

Shanahan fired as Broncos coach (AP)

AP - Over the past few years, Mike Shanahan, the vice president of football operations, didn't do Mike Shanahan, the coach, any favors.

Source: Yahoo! News: Top Stories | 31 Dec 2008 | 12:45 pm

Troop deaths in wars at lowest

As 2008 ends, U.S. troop deaths for the year in Iraq and Afghanistan are the lowest combined total since the Iraq war began in ...

Source: USATODAY.com News - Top Stories | 31 Dec 2008 | 12:42 pm

Arts, Briefly National Film Registry Adds 'The Terminator' - New York Times

Source: Google News | 31 Dec 2008 | 12:40 pm

The Year in Review (LOLcats Style)

You’re not supposed to admit to liking LOLcats, just as you’re not supposed to openly champion year-in-review issues. But we have combined two of our guiltiest pleasures into one shamelessly superficial summary of an incredibly historic year. We hopez u likee.

Source: digg.com: Stories / Popular | 31 Dec 2008 | 12:40 pm

Who Got Old?

Wow...

Source: digg.com: Stories / Popular | 31 Dec 2008 | 12:40 pm

Ambulancemen Arrest: "Not worth bothering" saving dying man

They were detained after detectives were given a tape recording of them in the patient's house in which they were allegedly heard discussing not bothering to try to revive him.

Source: digg.com: Stories / Popular | 31 Dec 2008 | 12:40 pm

Wounded Palestinians Relay Gaza's Bad Conditions

Arab foreign ministers are gathering in the Egyptian capital Cairo to discuss the Israeli bombing campaign in the Gaza Strip. A number of wounded Palestinians have made it to hospitals in neighboring Egypt for treatment. They tell grim tales of the conditions inside Gaza.

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Source: NPR Topics: News | 31 Dec 2008 | 12:35 pm

Israel rejects Gaza truce calls

International proposals for a 48-hour humanitarian truce in Gaza are dismissed by the Israeli government.
Source: BBC News | World | UK Edition | 31 Dec 2008 | 12:32 pm

Steve Jobs health rumours don't die - Inquirer

Source: Google News | 31 Dec 2008 | 12:31 pm

Robbie Maddison Has Almost Bails From 65 Feet Up In Vegas

Source: digg.com: Stories / Popular | 31 Dec 2008 | 12:30 pm

Ethiopia 'packing up in Somalia'

Ethiopian troops prepare to leave Somalia as the deadline looms for them to quit, witnesses say.
Source: BBC News | World | UK Edition | 31 Dec 2008 | 12:26 pm

Make the word go away

List of banned phrases offers no 'bailout' to offenders

Source: The Globe and Mail - Front Page News | 31 Dec 2008 | 12:22 pm

Ga Reqires Sex Offenders to Hand Over Email, Passwords, Etc

Privacy advocates are questioning an aggressive Georgia law set to take effect Thursday that would require sex offenders to hand over Internet passwords, screen names and e-mail addresses.

Source: digg.com: Stories / Popular | 31 Dec 2008 | 12:20 pm

As Air Assault Continues, Israel Rejects Truce Deal

With basic food supplies running low in Gaza and hospitals struggling to handle the casualties, France's foreign minister proposed a 48-hour lull to allow vital aid to enter the territory and be delivered to its 1.5 million residents.

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Source: NPR Topics: News | 31 Dec 2008 | 12:20 pm

Ukraine 'threatens to seize gas'

Russia's Gazprom claims Ukraine is threatening to seize Russian gas being transported to Europe in a row over gas supplies.
Source: BBC News | World | UK Edition | 31 Dec 2008 | 12:18 pm

India Markets

A broker reacts while trading at a stock brokerage firm on New Year's eve in Mumbai, India's financial capital, Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2008. (AP Photo/Rajanish Kakade)
Source: RSS feed - channel BNImagesWorld | 31 Dec 2008 | 12:12 pm

South Korea Koreas Tensions

South Korean President Lee Myung-bak delivers a speech, laying out his government's main policy directives for the new year at Presidential House in Seoul, South Korea, Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2008. Lee indicated...
Source: RSS feed - channel BNImagesWorld | 31 Dec 2008 | 12:10 pm

Bill Cowher officially out of NY Jets coaching job hunt

Former Pittsburgh Steelers coach Bill Cowher, who rejected a chance to become head coach of the Browns over the weekend, is not going to interview for the head coaching position of the New York Jets, according to multiple sources.

Source: digg.com: Stories / Popular | 31 Dec 2008 | 12:10 pm

More economic pain seen in 2009

SINGAPORE (Reuters) - Investors said good riddance on Wednesday to one of the worst years on record and prayed that massive government rescue plans will pull the global economy out of its fierce tailspin later in the new year.
Source: Reuters: Top News | 31 Dec 2008 | 12:09 pm

Regulator approves sour well application for Highpine near Alta. town

TOMAHAWK, Alta. - At least one parent says she fears for the lives and health of her children after regulators Tuesday approved the drilling of three sour oil and gas wells near Tomahawk,
Source: RSS feed - channel BNewsWorld | 31 Dec 2008 | 12:08 pm

B.C. Mountie charged with assault causing bodily harm in 2006 incident

VANCOUVER, B.C. - A B.C. Mountie who was called to a residence in September 2006 to keep the peace as a woman in a violent relationship moved out of her home has been charged with assault
Source: RSS feed - channel BNewsWorld | 31 Dec 2008 | 12:07 pm

Two dead after crash on Alberta highway; car had Sask. plates

OLDS, Alta. - Two people are dead after a crash on Alberta's busiest highway. Mounties say that just after 8 p.m. on Tuesday, a northbound car crossed the median and hit a southbound...
Source: RSS feed - channel BNewsWorld | 31 Dec 2008 | 12:07 pm

Israel, Hamas Renew Attacks as Cease-Fire Is Rejected

Israel rejected international pressure to suspend its air offensive against Palestinian militants whose rocket barrages are striking close to the Israeli heartland, sending warplanes Wednesday to demolish smuggling tunnels that are the lifeline of Hamas.
Source: FOXNews.com | 31 Dec 2008 | 12:06 pm

China suggests talks with Taiwan

China's President Hu Jintao calls for talks with Taiwanese leaders to ease military and security tensions.
Source: BBC News | World | UK Edition | 31 Dec 2008 | 12:04 pm

World Markets End 2008 With a Whimper

Wrold Markets Close down for 2008, look forward to 2009.
Source: ABC News: International | 31 Dec 2008 | 11:59 am

Indian president approves new anti-terror law

India's president signed an anti-terror bill into law Wednesday to boost police powers in the wake of a bloody attack on the country's financial capital, officials said.
Source: Newsvine - Get Smarter Here | 31 Dec 2008 | 11:57 am

China to boost railway spending by 80 percent

China will raise its spending on railway construction by 80 percent in 2009 to $87.9 billion as part of a stimulus plan to boost domestic demand, state media said Wednesday.
Source: Newsvine - Get Smarter Here | 31 Dec 2008 | 11:56 am

India Terror Law

Indian Home Minster Palaniappan Chidambaram addresses the media in New Delhi, India, Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2008. India's president on Wednesday approved new anti-terror legislation to beef up police powers...
Source: RSS feed - channel BNImagesWorld | 31 Dec 2008 | 11:55 am

Malaysia Economy

Muslim shoppers make a payment at a cashier counter of a hyper market in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia, Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2008. Malaysia's central bank chief indicated the government may need to spend more...
Source: RSS feed - channel BNImagesWorld | 31 Dec 2008 | 11:54 am

Nepal Israel Protest

Activists of Peace for Nepal, a non political organization, hold placards and a banner as they call for cease-fire in Gaza during a protest outside the Israel Embassy in Katmandu, Nepal, Wednesday, Dec,...
Source: RSS feed - channel BNImagesWorld | 31 Dec 2008 | 11:52 am

'Forty held' in Khyber operation

Pakistani forces arrest 40 people and destroy suspected militant bases and houses in a key offensive in the Khyber Pass.
Source: BBC News | World | UK Edition | 31 Dec 2008 | 11:52 am

Somali insurgents vow to keep fighting

A powerful insurgent group poised to take over Somalia said Wednesday it will fight until the country is ruled by Islamic law, even as Ethiopian troops who have been propping up the government packed up to leave.
Source: Newsvine - Get Smarter Here | 31 Dec 2008 | 11:49 am

Bomb blast at Basque TV headquarters after ETA alert: police

MADRID (AFP) - A car bomb exploded outside the headquarters of the Basque broadcasting network in the city of Bilbao Wednesday, minutes after the area was evacuated following a warning call in the name of the separatist group ETA, police said.
Source: AFP - Wire stories | 31 Dec 2008 | 11:46 am

Washington mulls deporting jailed illegal aliens

Washington Gov. Chris Gregoire wants illegal immigrants serving time in state jails deported, a move intended to save the state more than $9 million in the next two-year budget.
Source: Newsvine - Get Smarter Here | 31 Dec 2008 | 11:42 am

Israeli leaders reject immediate Gaza truce

Israel is considering halting its Gaza offensive temporarily to give Hamas militants an opening to halt rocket fire on Israel, an Israeli defense official said Tuesday.

Source: msnbc.com: Top msnbc.com headlines | 31 Dec 2008 | 11:41 am

Bomb blast targets Basque TV site

A car bomb explodes near a Basque television building in the city of Bilbao in northern Spain - no casualties are reported.
Source: BBC News | World | UK Edition | 31 Dec 2008 | 11:39 am

Israel rejects immediate Gaza truce; assault enters 5th day

Israel rejected international pressure to suspend its air offensive against Palestinian militants whose rocket barrages are striking ...

Source: USATODAY.com News - Top Stories | 31 Dec 2008 | 11:35 am

Bangladesh poll winner urges rival to accept defeat

DHAKA (AFP) - Bangladesh ex-premier Sheikh Hasina Wajed hailed Wednesday her landslide election victory as a vote against "misrule" and urged her bitter rival, who has alleged rampant vote-rigging, to accept the result.
Source: AFP - Wire stories | 31 Dec 2008 | 11:31 am

The Saddest New Years Party Ever

Why you might want to think twice before sending that Evite.

Source: digg.com: Stories / Popular | 31 Dec 2008 | 11:30 am

More economic pain seen in 2009

Investors eye more government aid as more layoffs, bad loans, bankruptcies loom, business activity continues to shrink

Source: The Globe and Mail - Front Page News | 31 Dec 2008 | 11:30 am

Madoff probe extends into offshore funds: report

(Reuters) - Federal prosecutors investigating Bernard Madoff's $50 billion fraud are starting to look into the role played by offshore fund operations, the New York Times reported.
Source: Reuters: Top News | 31 Dec 2008 | 11:21 am

Scramble for decisive Ghana votes

Opposition candidate John Atta Mills heads for the Ghana constituency which will decide the tight presidential run-off.
Source: BBC News | World | UK Edition | 31 Dec 2008 | 11:20 am

World stocks end wretched 2008 with modest rally

LONDON (AFP) - World stocks on Wednesday brought down the curtain on a miserable year with modest gains but 2008 will be remembered for key markets shedding half their worth as the global economy endured a disastrous slowdown.
Source: AFP - Wire stories | 31 Dec 2008 | 11:10 am

NASA Targets Problems To Make Space Travel Safer

The first NASA study of astronaut crew safety since the 2003 Columbia disaster was released Tuesday. While scientists found that there was nothing that could have been done to prevent that disaster — they did look into preventing other problems before they could come up.

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Source: NPR Topics: News | 31 Dec 2008 | 11:00 am

Ill. Gov. Blagojevich Picks Obama's Sen. Successor

Illinois' embattled Governor Rod Blagojevich on Tuesday appointed a successor to fill the Senate seat vacated by President-elect Barack Obama. The move set off an avalanche of criticism from members of both political parties and set the stage for more political drama.

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Source: NPR Topics: News | 31 Dec 2008 | 11:00 am

Egypt Can Be A Peacemaker In Gaza

For a fifth day, Israeli jets and assault helicopters pounded Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip. Egypt borders one side of Gaza and could play an important role in solving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Scott Lasensky of the U.S. Institute of Peace, talks with Steve Inskeep about what Egypt can do to help establish peace in the Gaza Strip.

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Source: NPR Topics: News | 31 Dec 2008 | 11:00 am

GMAC Made Risky Subprime Mortgage Loans

GMAC is the most recent beneficiary of a government bailout. GMAC is the the financing arm of General Motors. It supplies funding for auto dealers to buy inventory and credit for consumers buying cars. It is also a major player in the home mortgage market.

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Source: NPR Topics: News | 31 Dec 2008 | 11:00 am

Texas charities curb Mexico outreach amid violence

With the death toll in the Mexican city of Juarez mounting, the increasingly bloody struggle for control of the city across the Rio Grande from El Paso can now count one more victim: charity from its American neighbor.
Source: Newsvine - Get Smarter Here | 31 Dec 2008 | 10:50 am

UBS sells 3.4 billion share stake in Bank of China

UBS AG said Wednesday it has sold its stake in Bank of China in a deal estimated to be worth around $900 million.
Source: Newsvine - Get Smarter Here | 31 Dec 2008 | 10:50 am

The 50 Hottest Victoria’s Secret Models Of All Time

Extensive googling ensued, and after checking out Victoria’s Secret models past or present, we figured why not make a list of the hottest of all time.

Source: digg.com: Stories / Popular | 31 Dec 2008 | 10:50 am

India coast guard retrieving bodies of immigrants

Indian officials battled strong winds Wednesday to retrieve the bodies of at least 10 suspected illegal immigrants that washed ...

Source: USATODAY.com News - Top Stories | 31 Dec 2008 | 10:48 am

Russia-Ukraine gas talks down to the wire

MOSCOW (AFP) - Frenetic efforts to resolve another gas dispute between Russia and Ukraine went down to the wire Wednesday within hours of a threatened New Year's Day cut-off that could disrupt deliveries to Europe.
Source: AFP - Wire stories | 31 Dec 2008 | 10:40 am

HK stocks gain slightly, end year down 48 percent

Hong Kong's stock market was modestly higher Wednesday, but still wrapped up 2008 with its second-steepest annual loss.
Source: Newsvine - Get Smarter Here | 31 Dec 2008 | 10:38 am

A Christmas-time tradition that's for the birds

It's a Christmas time tradition dating to 1900, and it has nothing to do with Jesus or Santa. It's literally for the birds.
Source: Newsvine - Get Smarter Here | 31 Dec 2008 | 10:35 am

Report: Bomb explodes in Spain's Basque region

Spanish National Radio says a bomb has exploded in the northern Basque city of Bilbao follow a warning call in the name of the ...

Source: USATODAY.com News - Top Stories | 31 Dec 2008 | 10:30 am

Judge rejects release of two Guantanamo inmates

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A U.S. judge refused to release two Guantanamo terrorism suspects on Tuesday and upheld the government's authority to keep them, after ordering freedom last month for five prisoners whose case led to a landmark Supreme Court ruling.
Source: Reuters: Top News | 31 Dec 2008 | 10:30 am

Soviets Stole Bomb Idea From U.S., Book Says

A new book says Moscow acquired the secret of the hydrogen bomb not from its own scientists but from an atomic spy at the Los Alamos weapons lab in New Mexico.

Source: digg.com: Stories / Popular | 31 Dec 2008 | 10:30 am

China Markets

Traders at the Shanghai stock market work with quiet atmosphere on New Year's Eve in Shanghai, China, Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2008. China's shares fell Wednesday amid concern about a worsening economic slump,...
Source: RSS feed - channel BNImagesWorld | 31 Dec 2008 | 10:28 am

Philippines New Year

A Filipino vendor blows paper horns to attract costumers outside a church in downtown Manila on Wednesday Dec. 31, 2008. Authorities urge the public to use safer noisemakers as many Filipinos traditionally...
Source: RSS feed - channel BNImagesWorld | 31 Dec 2008 | 10:27 am

Australia New Year

Fireworks explode over Sydney Harbour during the pre-New Year's celebrations on Sydney Harbour in Sydney, Australia, Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2008. (AP Photo/Rob Griffith)
Source: RSS feed - channel BNImagesWorld | 31 Dec 2008 | 10:23 am

Muted New Year festivities in India, Mumbai quiet

MUMBAI (Reuters) - Scanners, blocked roads and tight security will temper New Year revelries across India on Wednesday as fear of militant violence hangs over the country after last month's Mumbai attacks.
Source: Reuters: Top News | 31 Dec 2008 | 10:21 am

Top 10 Green Transportation Trends of 2008

Rather than picking individual stories from the past year, we decided to analyze some of the incredible trends that made 2008 a landmark year in the transportation sector. Read on for an in-depth review of ten green transportation trends, and what we believe 2009 will bring us!

Source: digg.com: Stories / Popular | 31 Dec 2008 | 10:20 am

NYT: Burris — a low-key groundbreaker

In Illinois, where politics ranks among the dramatic arts (sometimes the theater of the absurd), Roland W. Burris has long been seen as steady, deliberate, even boring.

Source: msnbc.com: Top msnbc.com headlines | 31 Dec 2008 | 10:02 am

Pakistan kills 3 in Afghan supply route operation

Pakistani troops killed three militants in an operation to secure the major supply route to U.S. and NATO troops in Afghanistan, ...

Source: USATODAY.com News - Top Stories | 31 Dec 2008 | 9:09 am

Blagojevich defies critics by naming Senator

CHICAGO (Reuters) - Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich defied fellow Democrats by appointing a successor on Tuesday to fill Barack Obama's vacant U.S. Senate seat -- the seat the governor is charged with trying to sell to the highest bidder.
Source: Reuters: Top News | 31 Dec 2008 | 8:56 am

India Pakistan Protest

Activists of Kalinga Sena, a local organization, burn a flag of Pakistan as a portrait of Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari is seen on the ground, during a demonstration demanding that Pakistan be declared...
Source: RSS feed - channel BNImagesWorld | 31 Dec 2008 | 8:54 am

CZECH EU PRESIDENCY

In this June 25, 2008 file picture the Prime Minister of the Czech Republic, Mirek Topolanek , speaks during the celebration of the 40th anniversary of the Prague Spring in 1968 in Berlin. On Thursday...
Source: RSS feed - channel BNImagesWorld | 31 Dec 2008 | 8:54 am

Uneasy alliance behind Gaza strikes

The Israeli campaign on Gaza is being led by an unlikely group of three Israeli leaders who have all but staked their political futures on the highly risky military operation.

Source: msnbc.com: Top msnbc.com headlines | 31 Dec 2008 | 8:34 am

Israel Mulls 48-Hour Halt To Gaza Strikes

Israel is considering halting its Gaza offensive temporarily to give Hamas militants an opening to halt rocket fire on Israel, but coupled with the threat of a ground offensive if such a cease-fire does not hold, an Israeli defense official said.
Source: World News: CBSNews.com | 31 Dec 2008 | 8:30 am

Detroit police say homicides dropped in 2008

Detroit is on pace to have its lowest number of homicides in more than 40 years. As of Monday, the Detroit Police Department ...

Source: USATODAY.com News - Top Stories | 31 Dec 2008 | 7:49 am

Sydney police in armed standoff

Four hostages have been released but police remain locked in a marathon standoff with a 41-year-old armed man on a NSW mid-north coast property. The siege in the coastal hamlet of Stuarts Point, near Kempsey, has dragged on for...
Source: New Zealand Herald - World | 31 Dec 2008 | 7:15 am

Protests erupt in US over Gaza attacks

Close to 1,000 Arab-Americans and others marched through the Detroit suburb of Dearborn, waving Palestinian flags and shouting slogans to protest Israeli military strikes against the Gaza Strip. Protesters braving freezing temperatures...
Source: New Zealand Herald - World | 31 Dec 2008 | 7:10 am

Flyers extend unbeaten streak in Vancouver

Philadelphia hasn't suffered defeat in B.C. in nearly 20 years

Source: The Globe and Mail - Front Page News | 31 Dec 2008 | 6:50 am

Senators finally earn road win

Brian Lee's first career goal scores winner as Senators snaps 12-game losing streak away from Ottawa

Source: The Globe and Mail - Front Page News | 31 Dec 2008 | 6:49 am

Friend recalls victim of Santa shootings

When Roxanne Jauregui heard on Christmas Day that there had been a horrible shooting on her best friend's street in Covina, she picked up her cell phone and called her soul mate of 30 years to get some firsthand details. She didn't...
Source: New Zealand Herald - World | 31 Dec 2008 | 6:30 am

Oregon tops Oklahoma State in Holiday Bowl

Now this was a Holiday Bowl. Oregon quarterback Jeremiah Masoli ran through and over Oklahoma State’s defense for three touchdowns and threw for another to lead the No. 15 Ducks to a 42-31 win over the No. 13 Cowboys in a wild, record-setting Holiday Bowl on Tuesday night.

Source: msnbc.com: Top msnbc.com headlines | 31 Dec 2008 | 6:29 am

Tennessee Spill The Exxon Valdez Of Coal Ash?

There aren't a lot of answers yet about what caused a catastrophic spill of coal ash from a Tennessee Valley Authority plant near Knoxville. But the disaster has raised lots of questions about whether regulations of coal ash are strict enough.

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Source: NPR Topics: News | 31 Dec 2008 | 5:59 am

Joseph finally gets win No. 450

Goalie makes 29 saves to pick up milestone victory and help Leafs end three-game slide

Source: The Globe and Mail - Front Page News | 31 Dec 2008 | 5:05 am

50 years later, Cuba eyes Castro

Questions persist about the possibility of a Fidel appearance in public and the chances of an economic turnaround under Raul ...

Source: USATODAY.com News - Top Stories | 31 Dec 2008 | 4:52 am

Wikipedia pulls in flood of cash from users

Foundation raises $5.5-million after appeal for donations

Source: The Globe and Mail - Front Page News | 31 Dec 2008 | 4:27 am

Hold off the Auld Lang Syne

2009 will have to wait a second

Source: The Globe and Mail - Front Page News | 31 Dec 2008 | 4:20 am

Fewer Americans move out of state

Interstate moves in the USA dropped substantially this year over the previous year, according to two large shippers.

Source: USATODAY.com News - Top Stories | 31 Dec 2008 | 4:08 am

After losing 8 friends, survivor leads crews to final victim

With all bodies recovered, grieving begins for close-knit community of Sparwood

Source: The Globe and Mail - Front Page News | 31 Dec 2008 | 4:07 am

Blagojevich defies critics, names Burris to fill Senate seat

Embattled Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich named a former Illinois attorney general and comptroller to fill the U.S. Senate seat ...

Source: USATODAY.com News - Top Stories | 31 Dec 2008 | 3:36 am

Ottawa faces New Year's Eve without transit

Labour Minister expected to intervene in strike that has created chaos in the capital for three weeks

Source: The Globe and Mail - Front Page News | 31 Dec 2008 | 3:33 am

Tainted Milk Execs. On Trial In China

The former chairwoman of the dairy company at the heart of China's tainted milk scandal went on trial Wednesday on charges of selling fake or substandard products, the official Xinhua News Agency reported.
Source: World News: CBSNews.com | 31 Dec 2008 | 3:00 am

China's Tainted Milk Trial Opens

Nine people went on trial Monday in connection with China's tainted milk scandal, state media reported, following the announcement of steps to compensate the families of hundreds of thousands of children harmed by contaminated infant formula.
Source: World News: CBSNews.com | 31 Dec 2008 | 3:00 am

Year in religion: Political plays, papal visit and battle over gays

Religion was inescapable in the news of 2008. Headlines featured pastors embroiled in politics, confrontations over same-sex ...

Source: USATODAY.com News - Top Stories | 31 Dec 2008 | 2:45 am

Viacom could pull MTV off Time Warner Cable

Media giant Viacom Inc. is threatening to pull MTV, Comedy Central, Nickelodeon and 16 other channels from Time Warner Cable Inc. if a new  deal is not agreed upon by midnight Wednesday.
Source: msnbc.com: Top msnbc.com headlines | 31 Dec 2008 | 2:19 am

Ex-wife's friend: Gunman distant after wedding

When Roxanne Jauregui heard Christmas Day that there had been a horrible shooting on her best friend's street, she called her soul mate of 30 years. She didn't realize her friend was among the victims.
Source: msnbc.com: Top msnbc.com headlines | 31 Dec 2008 | 2:12 am

Woman gives naked intruder the 'squeeze'

The Multnomah County, Ore., Sheriff's Office said an 88-year-old woman fended off a naked intruder by grabbing the man's crotch and squeezing.
Source: msnbc.com: Top msnbc.com headlines | 31 Dec 2008 | 2:01 am

American Academic Interrogated In Iran

The United States on expressed grave concern about the detention and interrogation in Iran of a prominent American academic, an incident that has led the National Academies of Science to suspend educational exchanges with Iranian institutions.
Source: World News: CBSNews.com | 31 Dec 2008 | 2:00 am

WATCH: Killed, Wounded Overwhelm Gaza Hospital

Source: ABC News: International | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:18 am

FDA approves new HIV blood test

Federal regulators said Tuesday they have approved a new HIV test that screens for two, less common forms of the virus.
Source: msnbc.com: Top msnbc.com headlines | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:17 am

Broncos fire coach Shanahan

He was known as a genius, a mastermind and, yes, a Super Bowl champion. Shockingly, though, Mike Shanahan has a new title: Unemployed coach.

Source: msnbc.com: Top msnbc.com headlines | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:10 am

World leaders call for Mideast truce

Key world powers trying to promote Mideast peace today called on Israel and Hamas to implement an immediate cease-fire in Gaza and southern Israel, the UN said. The Quartet of Mideast peacemakers - the United States, the United...
Source: New Zealand Herald - World | 31 Dec 2008 | 1:00 am

Blagojevich makes Senate pick

Defying U.S. Senate leaders and his own state's lawmakers, Gov. Rod Blagojevich announced Tuesday the appointment of a Senate replacement for President-elect Barack Obama.

Source: msnbc.com: Top msnbc.com headlines | 31 Dec 2008 | 12:41 am

Arabs Fear Repercussions of Gaza Attacks

From streets to palaces, Arabs worry about Gaza's impact on the Middle East.
Source: ABC News: International | 30 Dec 2008 | 11:21 pm

WATCH: Obama's Plan for World's Hot Spots

Source: ABC News: International | 30 Dec 2008 | 9:57 pm

Body Of 8th Man Found In Canada Avalanche

The eighth and final body was found from a group of snowmobilers buried by weekend avalanches in western Canada's backcountry, police said.
Source: World News: CBSNews.com | 30 Dec 2008 | 9:06 pm

Holiday weakest since 1970, more retail cuts seen

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Not since at least 1970 has holiday shopping in the United States posted such dismal numbers, according to data released on Tuesday that was likely to prompt retailers to curtail their business even more in 2009.
Source: Reuters: Top News | 30 Dec 2008 | 8:15 pm

WATCH: CyberKnife Targets Cancer Cells

Source: ABC News: International | 30 Dec 2008 | 7:23 pm

'Hey Baby, What's Your Blood Type?'

Dating by blood type is all the rage in Japan.
Source: ABC News: International | 30 Dec 2008 | 6:38 pm

WATCH: Lucky Charm Piglets

Source: ABC News: International | 30 Dec 2008 | 6:13 pm

A Gloomy 2008 Just Got Longer

Scientists prolong 2008 gloom by adding 'leap second' to New Year's countdown.
Source: ABC News: International | 30 Dec 2008 | 6:04 pm

British Couple Gets Year of Labor for 'Criticizing' Gambia

A middle-aged British couple was sentenced Tuesday to one year’s hard labor in Gambia after pleading guilty to sedition in the tiny West African nation.
Source: FOXNews.com | 30 Dec 2008 | 5:20 pm

Iranian President Presents Bill to Cut Subsidies

Iran's president has presented a sweeping economic package to parliament that will cut subsidies in the coming months.
Source: FOXNews.com | 30 Dec 2008 | 4:50 pm

Resort to Detain Drunk Skiers in Freight Container

Swedish police have received permission to place drunk skiers in a custom-made freight container while they sober up, The Local reported.
Source: FOXNews.com | 30 Dec 2008 | 4:26 pm

Wife Wants Probe Into Man's Death After Long ER Wait

The widow of a British man who died after a six-hour wait at an emergency room has demanded answers from a hospital trust.
Source: FOXNews.com | 30 Dec 2008 | 4:13 pm

Hamas demands an end to Israeli blockade

Israel has dropped tonnes of bombs on the Gaza Strip in a show of force to make Hamas stop rocket attacks, but has not said it will try to topple the Islamic militants who have ruled for 18 months. Such a limited definition of...
Source: New Zealand Herald - World | 30 Dec 2008 | 4:00 pm

Thailand blocks 2,300 websites

BANGKOK, Thailand - The Thai government has blocked more than 2,300 websites over the past year, most of them for allegedly offending the country's monarchy, a senior official said. The sites, more than 90 per cent of which were...
Source: New Zealand Herald - World | 30 Dec 2008 | 4:00 pm

Bulgarians Furious Over Acid Attack on Worker in Greece

The head of Bulgaria's largest trade union urged Greek authorities Tuesday to investigate an acid attack that left a Bulgarian immigrant seriously injured.
Source: FOXNews.com | 30 Dec 2008 | 3:54 pm

Israel Prepares For Next "Phase" In Gaza

Israeli is keeping up a relentless aerial assault on Hamas-ruled Gaza, but their offensive has reached a turning point; they are now poised to move to the next "phase" of operations, which may well include ground forces entering the territory.
Source: World News: CBSNews.com | 30 Dec 2008 | 3:42 pm

Mortar Attack Hits Somali Market Amid Unrest

Mortars slammed into a busy market in Somalia's capital Tuesday, witnesses said, as the country's weak government crumbled and the impending pullout of allied Ethiopian troops raised fears that Islamic insurgents might seize the opportunity to take over.
Source: FOXNews.com | 30 Dec 2008 | 3:37 pm

Man charged in Hudson killings appears in court

CHICAGO - A murder indictment has been issued against the man accused of killing the mother, brother and nephew of Oscar-winning actress Jennifer Hudson. William Balfour had already been charged with three counts of first-degree...
Source: New Zealand Herald - World | 30 Dec 2008 | 3:00 pm

Defiant Hamas Hits Israel With Rockets

Palestinian militants in the Gaza Strip sent a deadly barrage of missiles flying deep into Israel, demonstrating that Hamas still has firepower three days into Israel's punishing offensive against Gaza.
Source: World News: CBSNews.com | 30 Dec 2008 | 2:46 pm

Russian President Extends Presidential Terms

The Kremlin says the Russian leader has signed a law extending presidential terms from four to six years.
Source: FOXNews.com | 30 Dec 2008 | 1:55 pm