Opening act for Congress: raising taxes

While tax cuts are an integral part of President-elect Barack Obama's stimulus plan, the newly convened Congress and Obama are nonetheless preparing for a tax hike. But don't worry just yet, unless you're a smoker.

Kennedy's bid reignites 'mommy wars'

The bid by Caroline Kennedy for the Senate has reignited the "mommy wars" between mothers with careers and those who take a break from paid employment.

Troops in Iraq to get beer for Super Bowl
American troops in Iraq will be allowed to drink beer without fear of court-martial for this year's Super Bowl — an exception to a strict military ban on drinking alcohol in combat zones.

Cowboy churches rope in new Christians

Moments after flying headfirst onto the arena dirt, the man brushes off his protective vest as rodeo clowns rush in to distract the still-bucking bull. But this isn't a typical rodeo. It's an outreach ministry.

NYT analysis: Difficult road for Panetta at CIA

For Leon E. Panetta, President-elect Barack Obama's choice for CIA chief, achieving success will be especially difficult because of intense pressure over recent counterterrorism policies in which the C.I.A. played a leading role.

Floods cut Washington highways

Floods, mudslides and avalanches in the Pacific Northwest kept tens of thousands of people from their homes Thursday, brought freight trains to a standstill and stranded hundreds of trucks.

Opinion: Tips to pay off credit cards

In her new book, the financial expert and host of CNBC's "Suze Orman Show"  offers an action plan to help you get out of the vicious  cycle of credit card debt in these difficult financial times. An excerpt.

Alzheimer's drugs double death risk in elderly
Anti-psychotic drugs commonly used to treat Alzheimer's disease may double a patient's chance of dying within a few years, suggests a new study that adds to known concerns.

Gators swamp Sooners for BCS title

Sooners' record offense stymied as Florida wins 2nd national title in 3 years.