Pirates free two ships after ransom
Somali pirates released two hijacked ships after ransoms were paid, U.S. military officials said Thursday.
Napolitano up for Homeland Security
An early Barack Obama supporter from the southwestern part of the country, the former Arizona attorney general is a leading contender for the job of secretary of homeland security.
Stocks dive as auto bailout is put off
Stocks plunged for a second straight day Thursday, falling to levels not seen in at least five years as financial and energy stocks tumbled.
Starvation stalks children in Haiti
At least 26 severely malnourished children have died in recent days in Haiti, and aid groups fear many more deaths unless more help comes quickly to this impoverished Caribbean country.
Retirement dreams yield to despair
A rising number of people have seen their retirement plans evaporate. As 401(k)s dwindle, their dreams of golden years are being replaced by feelings of hopelessness and anger.
EpiPens: life-saving kid accessory
As allergies to peanuts, milk, eggs and gluten have risen, a cult-like following has emerged around the EpiPen, a single-shot of medication that can halt a potentially deadly reaction.
Grass lawns shrink in Calif. drought
California's ever-growing population and the threat of a prolonged drought could kill the concept of the traditional lush lawn in the Golden State.
Analysis: States fail to police Amber Alerts
Despite a federal law meant to create a uniform system, an AP review shows wide variations in what triggers Amber Alerts from one state to the next.
Congress demands plan for auto aid
Democratic leaders in Congress decided to delay a vote to bail out automakers until December and will first demand the Big Three show how the funds would transform the industry.
ConsumerMan: Shady retirement seminars
Many Americans nearing retirement are bombarded with invitations to attend financial management seminars. A free lunch is offered. But that lunch may prove to be pricey.
