In Iran:  No credit cards, alcohol ... or urinals

One moment, Rick Steves — in Iran filming — would see murals encouraging young men to walk into the blazing sunset of martyrdom. The next, a bookstore worker would give him a free book.

Pinched Americans hit the gym, but seek deals
People squeezed by the economic crisis are still paying for gym memberships and diet centers, but health clubs are having to hold down their fees to keep customers coming in.

Gators swamp Sooners for BCS title

Sooners' record offense stymied as Florida wins 2nd national title in 3 years.

Bacon, butter fuel South Pole trek

A trio of adventurers said Friday they have set a new record for fastest trek across Antarctica to the South Pole, after suffering through whiteout conditions and temperatures as low as minus 40.

On ‘Grey's Anatomy,' not all wishes come true

This week at Seattle Grace, the Chief finally recognized that Seattle Grace's constant revolving door of doctors, not to mention its self-operating interns, is far from normal.

Gaza fighting rages as U.N. call ignored

Israeli aircraft bombarded Gaza early Friday and Hamas fired rockets into southern Israel, as the government said there would be no quick end to the fighting despite a U.N. resolution calling for a cease-fire.

Obama to finalize national security team

Barack Obama is completing his national security team by announcing his unusual choices for CIA director and a national intelligence director who may face tough Senate confirmation questioning.

Kennedy's bid reignites 'mommy wars'

The bid by Caroline Kennedy for the Senate has reignited the "mommy wars" between mothers with careers and those who take a break from paid employment.

December jobs report likely to be grim

Trying to survive a deepening recession, employers are cutting their work forces to the bone, leaving more Americans unemployed and with dim prospects of finding a new job any time soon.