Attack on U.S. patrol in Afghanistan kills 5
A suicide bomber struck U.S. troops patrolling on foot in southern Afghanistan on Thursday, killing at least two soldiers and three civilians.
Scoop: Stars saving red-carpet best for inaugural
Celebrities aren't very interested in what they will wear to upcoming awards shows — they're already looking ahead to the outfits they'll don for Barack Obama's inauguration.
Walters: Oklahoma can silence Big 12 critics with win
Walters: Oklahoma has an opportunity to validate every verbal bouquet tossed the Big 12's direction this season. The Sooners, losers themselves of four consecutive BCS bowls and no strangers to the "Over-rated!" chant, take on a Florida squad that is as fast and deep as anyone in the nation. And that might as well be playing a home game.
Dismal December sales add to retailer woes
Major retailers Thursday reported dismal sales for December, confirming fears that the holiday season was the weakest in four decades.
Miscues plague Florida, Oklahoma in title game
In the fight for the BCS Championship, Florida landed the first real punch against Oklahoma. The Sooners struck right back, though. The game is tied 7-7 in the second quarter.
How many meerkats? London Zoo critter count
The annual count is a legal requirement for all British zoos, and it's also a useful tool for monitoring animal conservation efforts. Zookeepers say it makes sense to have a census.
Job hunts grow harder in recession
New claims for unemployment benefits dropped unexpectedly last week, but the number of people continuing to seek aid rose sharply.
Police crack down on train shooting protests
Heavy police presence greeted Bay Area Rapid Transit commuters Thursday, a day after more than 100 people were arrested in violent protests over the fatal shooting.
Obama tax plan runs into opposition
President-elect Barack Obama's proposed tax cuts ran into opposition Thursday from senators in his own party who said they wouldn't do much to stimulate the economy or create jobs.
Palm announces 'Pre' smartphone
Palm Thursday unveiled the "Pre" smartphone, more similar to an iPhone than a Treo in looks, and a new operating system called Palm WebOS, with hopes that both will keep the venerable but struggling company in the smartphone race.