Asia stocks sink as layoffs add to gloom

Asian stock markets sank after Wall Street retreated and global financial firms announced another round of massive layoffs, adding to gloom about the world economy. European stocks traded lower.

Lawyer: Jackson too sick to travel for trial

Michael Jackson's attorney said Tuesday that the pop star might be too sick to travel to London to testify in a suit claiming he owes an Arab sheikh $7 million.

Auto bailout appears in jeopardy

Detroit's Big Three automakers are pleading with Congress for a $25 billion lifeline to save their once-proud companies from collapse, warning of broader peril for the national economy as well.

Admirals, generals: Let gays serve openly
More than 100 retired generals and admirals called Monday for repeal of the military's "don't ask, don't tell" policy on gays so they can serve openly, according to a statement obtained by The Associated Press.

Tainted meats point to superbug C. diff in food

A nasty intestinal germ found in hospitals is also showing up in grocery store meats, raising the possibility that C. diff is transmitted through food, research shows.

Blind woman threatened over 1-cent bill
A 74-year-old blind woman was shocked when her daughter found a letter from the city saying a lien would be placed on her home unless she paid an overdue water bill.

Violence a political danger for Chávez

Many Venezuelans who once supported the Hugo Chavez are now considering a vote against the president's candidates because of the government's hapless response to rising crime rates.

New House Dems wary on taxes, bailout

New House Democrats, especially those elected from Republican-leaning districts, are wary of tax increases and of a taxpayer-funded bailout for the Big Three U.S. automakers.

Congo rebels announce pullback

Rebels in east Democratic Republic of Congo announced a military pullback on Tuesday to support a U.N. peace initiative.