Obama’s Afghan plan represents big gamble

President Barack Obama is holding an uncertain hand in his high-stakes gamble against Islamic extremism in Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Troops hope new plan will wind down war

Lawmakers divided over paying for Afghan war

Amid soaring budget deficits, President Barack Obama is running into congressional qualms over how to pay for his troop buildup in Afghanistan.

Gates: 'Severe consequences' for Afghan failure

Stocks end mixed despite an optimistic Fed

Stocks traded in a tight range Wednesday as investors got further confirmation that the economy is improving, but at a slow pace.

Study shows wind farms don’t hurt home prices

New low for Nets, who drop 18th straight

  The New Jersey Nets were pounded into NBA infamy Wednesday night, falling 117-101 to the Dallas Mavericks for their 18th straight loss to start the season.

Couple’s matchmaker ticked at Tiger

Scoop: Woods’ wife reportedly revising prenup

Sources say Tiger Woods' wife, Elin Nordegren, is standing by her man, but some also say she is revising their prenuptial agreement.

Beyonce leads Grammy nominees with 10 nods

Bewildered new moms hire baby planners

With twins on the way, Stacey Blackmar and her husband were looking to be prepared first-time parents when they started researching baby products. Instead, they found themselves bewildered with all the choices and information available.

Breast-screening debate splits along party lines

Cosmic Log: Pick your geek gift

Science editor Alan Boyle's Weblog: What do you give a budding science geek? A perfume chemistry set? A brainwave-operated toy?  Vote for the top geek gift of 2009.

7 ways microbes may solve our energy woes

Pet policies of top hotel chains

Most major hotel chains are putting out the welcome mat for Fido. However, some have restrictions that muzzle the term “pet friendly”. Here’s a guide to help.

Main Paris museums closed due to strike