Iraq mission is critical, Gates tells U.S. troops

U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates told American troops in this oil-rich northern city that their mission in Iraq remains critical despite the nation's focus on Afghanistan.

NYT: Blackwater tied to CIA raids

Bailout for Main Street instead of Wall Street?

The Obama administration plans to channel money from the government's massive financial bailout program to small businesses.

Accepting peace prize, Obama defends war

Stock futures hold gains after retail sales data

  Stock futures pointed to a higher open on Wall Street Friday after a report on retail sales showed consumers are picking up their spending.

  Retail sales rise more than expected

Browns show Steelers not Super anymore

The defending champion Pittsburgh Steelers lost their fifth straight and had their playoff hopes sacked by the lowly Cleveland Browns, who ended a 12-game losing streak against their bitter rival with a 13-6 victory in subzero wind chills Thursday night.

Cincinnati's Kelly heading to Notre Dame

Scoop: Winfrey doesn’t grill president in holiday show

Talk-show host tosses softballs at first couple, asking about their favorite Christmas gifts as children.

‘Survivor’ sends two castaways home

Bad memories wiped away with unique therapy

Scientists have blocked fearful recollections in human participants, sans drugs. The results challenge the view that our long-term memories are fixed and resistant to change.

Sports drinks: Do they really help?

Cosmic Log: Planets on the Web

Science editor Alan Boyle's Weblog: What's the best way to stay on top of the planet boom? You'll find resources galore on the Web, including tart tweets from the planets themselves.

Internet users lured to oppose health bills

The world’s friendliest countries

The Middle East has long had a reputation for being one of the world's perennial trouble spots. But for expatriates, Bahrain ranks as one of the most welcoming places to work.

Airlines want your money, but not your cash