U.S. gives millions as Afghans target poppies

The U.S. on Monday agreed to hand out millions of dollars in development aid to provinces in Afghanistan that have eliminated or reduced the production of opium poppies.

Hate crimes up against gays, religion 

For Reid, Dodd, clout cuts both ways

Two Senate leaders trying to steer a pair of President Barack Obama's high-stakes initiatives through Congress are being dogged by re-election worries, and it's not clear whether their legislative prominence will help or hurt them.

Schumer: Dems can go it alone on health care

Stocks end with big gains, helped by home sales

  Investors halted stocks' three-day losing streak Monday, sending prices higher across the market on a lower dollar and better-than-expected home sales numbers.

Home sales rise to highest level in 2.5 years

Twins’ Mauer wins AL MVP award

Joe Mauer became only the second catcher in 33 years to win the American League Most Valuable Player Award, finishing first in a near-unanimous vote Monday.

Florida’s Meyer says Notre Dame not an option

Tim Burton — the artist — is now on display

This is not an average trip to the art museum. The fantastical MoMA collection includes more than 700 pieces — paintings, sketches and sculptures ’ from director Tim Burton’s films and abandoned projects. 

Big night for Jackson at AMAs

Patients face bitter choice: Pay up or lose care

A growing number of U.S. doctors are enacting their own brand of health reform, with some dumping insurance companies altogether and others forcing patients to pay thousands of dollars in cash to keep the care they’re accustomed to. Msnbc.com's JoNel Aleccia reports.

Clinic with two doors, a symbol of two-tier care

Gifts for the hardcore techies

Our crib sheet for the hard-core techie is at hand. From designer flash drives to the holy grail of remotes, these offerings are sure to please even the fussiest geek on your list.

Smartphone return, exchange policies for the holidays

Holidays will again test N.Y.-area bottleneck

Fewer people are expected to fly over Thanksgiving, but travelers shouldn't expect a reprieve from the horrid flight delays of holidays past, especially at LaGuardia, JFK and Newark.

Electronics top splurge gifts for travelers