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Sunday, March 31, 2013

Texas DA slain in his home; had armed himself

Texas DA slain in his home; had armed himself

Texas DA slain in his home; had armed himself

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 12:58 PM PDT

This undated photo taken from the Kaufman County, Texas, website shows Kaufman County District Attorney Mike McLelland. McLelland and his wife were found killed in their house, Saturday, March 30, 2013, two months after one of his assistants was gunned down near their office, authorities said. (AP Photo/Kaufman County)KAUFMAN, Texas (AP) — Kaufman County District Attorney Mike McLelland took no chances after one of his assistant prosecutors was gunned down two months ago. McLelland said he carried a gun everywhere he went and took extra care when answering the door at his home.

Syria says rebels set fire to three eastern oil wells

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 12:52 PM PDT

BEIRUT (Reuters) - Syrian rebels have set three oil wells in the east of the country ablaze, causing a daily loss of nearly 5,000 barrels of oil and 52,000 cubic meters of gas, state media quoted an oil ministry official as saying on Sunday. SANA news agency said the damage to the oil wells in Deir al-Zor province, much of which is in rebel hands, followed disputes among the fighters over "sharing out the stolen oil" from fields in areas they control. It said Syria's Furat Petroleum Corporation was working to extinguish the three fires. ...

3 killed in 75-vehicle pileup at Virginia-NC line

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 01:03 PM PDT

GALAX, Va. (AP) — Virginia State Police say three people have been killed and more than 20 are injured following a 75-vehicle pileup on Interstate 77 near the Virginia-North Carolina border.

Central African Republic leader takes defense ministry in caretaker government

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 12:51 PM PDT

Central African Republic's new President Michel Djotodia speaks to his supporters at a rally in favour of the Seleka rebel coalition in downtown BanguiBy Ange Aboa BANGUI (Reuters) - Central African Republic's new leader Michel Djotodia announced a caretaker government on Sunday in which he is defense minister, according to a statement issued by his spokesman. The new government, which is due to hold elections in the mineral-rich former French colony within three years, will retain civilian opposition representative Nicolas Tiangaye as prime minister. ...

Crosby out indefinitely with broken jaw

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 12:47 PM PDT

Pittsburgh Penguins center Sidney Crosby (87) is helped by right wing Pascal Dupuis (9) after being hit in the face with a puck during the first period of an NHL hockey game against the New York Islanders in Pittsburgh, Saturday, March 30, 2013. Crosby did not return to the game. The Penguins won 2-0. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)PITTSBURGH (AP) — Sidney Crosby has a broken jaw and is out indefinitely after being hit in the mouth with a puck during a win against the New York Islanders on Saturday.

'G.I. Joe' commands No. 1 at box office with $41M

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 12:44 PM PDT

Dwayne Johnson, a cast member in "G.I. Joe: Retaliation," poses at the Los Angeles premiere of the film at the TCL Chinese Theatre on Thursday, March 28, 2013 in Los Angeles. (Photo by Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP)LOS ANGELES (AP) — After a nine-month delay, "G.I. Joe: Retaliation" deployed to the top spot at the box office.

Diggins leads Notre Dame past Kansas, 93-63

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 12:44 PM PDT

Kansas forward Chelsea Gardner (15) passes the ball to Kansas guard Angel Goodrich, left, as Notre Dame forward Ariel Braker (44) pressures during the first half a regional semi-final of the NCAA college basketball tournament Sunday, March31, 2013, in Norfolk, Va. (AP Photo/Jason Hirschfeld)NORFOLK, Va. (AP) — Skylar Diggins was already having such a great day, her coach figured she might as well make it historic.

Murray rallies past Ferrer for Sony Open title

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 12:44 PM PDT

Andy Murray, of Britain, reacts after defeating David Ferrer, of Spain, during the final of the Sony Open tennis tournament, Sunday, March 31, 2013, in Key Biscayne, Fla. Murray won 2-6, 6-4, 7-6 (1). (AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee)KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. (AP) — Andy Murray erased a championship point Sunday and rallied past David Ferrer 2-6, 6-4, 7-6 (1) in a grueling, dramatic final at the Sony Open.

Exxon cleans up Arkansas oil spill; Keystone plan assailed

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 12:43 PM PDT

Handout of men wearing protective clothing survey cleanup efforts from oil spill in Mayflower(Reuters) - Exxon Mobil on Sunday continued cleanup of a pipeline spill that spewed thousands of barrels of heavy Canadian crude in Arkansas as opponents of oil sands development latched on to the incident to attack plans to build the Keystone XL line. Exxon spokesman Alan Jeffers said on Sunday that crews had yet to excavate the area around the pipeline breach, a needed step before the company can estimate how long repairs will take and when the line might restart. "I can't speculate on when it will happen," Jeffers said. ...

South Africa: Mandela in hospital on Easter

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 12:40 PM PDT

FILE - In this Wednesday, July 18, 2012 file photo, former South African President Nelson Mandela as he celebrates his 94th birthday with family in Qunu, South Africa. A South African official says Mandela is breathing "without difficulty" after having a procedure to clear fluid in his lung area that was caused by pneumonia. (AP Photo/Schalk van Zuydam, File)JOHANNESBURG (AP) — Former South African President Nelson Mandela had a restful day in a hospital Sunday and is improving following treatment for a recurrence of pneumonia, the government said.

2 Nevada youth coaches charged in post-game fight

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 12:28 PM PDT

RENO, Nev. (AP) — Two Nevada youth football coaches are facing criminal charges in connection with a bloody fist fight in front of dozens of players and parents after a game in northeastern Nevada.

Palestinian leader clamps down on critics

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 12:24 PM PDT

In this Saturday, 30 March, 2013 photo, Palestinian journalist Mamdooh Hamamreh adjusts his glasses during an interview to the Associated Press in the West Bank village of Hussan, near Bethlehem. Last week an appeals court in the West Bank upheld a one-year prison term for Mamdooh Hamamreh for "defaming" Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in a Facebook post. (AP Photo/Nasser Shiyoukhi)HUSSAN, West Bank (AP) — Mahmoud Abbas' government in the West Bank is getting tougher with critics, interrogating, prosecuting and even jailing several journalists and bloggers in recent months for allegedly "defaming" the Western-backed Palestinian leader.

Obama walks to Easter service at nearby church

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 12:13 PM PDT

President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama walk from the White House with their daughters Sasha Obama, second from left, and Malia Obama, right, on their way through Lafayette Park to St. John's Episcopal Church for Easter services, Sunday, March 31, 2013, in Washington. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama attended Easter services at an Episcopal church near the White House where past presidents frequently have worshipped.

Malibu homeowners struggle with beach-saving plan

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 12:07 PM PDT

MALIBU, Calif. (AP) — Malibu's celebrity haven of Broad Beach is struggling to survive as nature chews away at the shoreline and a $20 million effort to replace sand appears to be stuck in the mud.

South Africa says Mandela's condition has improved

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 12:07 PM PDT

Former South African president Nelson Mandela looks on as he celebrates his birthday at his house in QunuBy Ed Stoddard JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) - The condition of South Africa's former President Nelson Mandela has improved further, the government said on Sunday, as the 94-year-old anti-apartheid hero spent a fourth day in hospital receiving treatment for pneumonia. "Nelson Mandela had a restful day," South Africa's presidency said in a statement, adding doctors treating him had reported "a further improvement in his condition". "Government is satisfied that the doctors are providing the former president with the best medical care possible to enable his recovery and comfort," the statement said. ...

Hamas Gaza ruler meets Egypt intelligence chief

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 12:05 PM PDT

CAIRO (AP) — Egypt's state news agency says the Gaza Strip's Hamas ruler has met with Egypt's intelligence chief to discuss Palestinian reconciliation and the cease-fire between the militant group and Israel.

Exxon has yet to excavate area of ruptured Arkansas oil pipeline

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 11:57 AM PDT

HOUSTON (Reuters) - Exxon Mobil Corp said on Sunday that crews at the scene of its crude oil pipeline spill in Arkansas had yet to excavate the area of the breach to determine the cause. "I can't speculate on when that will happen," Exxon spokesman Alan Jeffers said. "Excavation is necessary as part of an investigation to determine the cause of the incident." Exxon also had no estimate on how long repairs would take or when the oil pipeline would restart. Exxon shut the line, which carries heavy Canadian crude oil from Illinois to Texas, on Friday when the leak was discovered. ...

AP PHOTOS: Easter celebrations around the world

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 11:49 AM PDT

Pope Francis delivers the Urbi et Orbi (to the city and to the world) blessing at the end of his first Easter Sunday Mass in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican Sunday, March 31, 2013. Pope Francis celebrated his first Easter Sunday Mass as pontiff in St. Peter's Square, packed by joyous pilgrims, tourists and Romans and bedecked by spring flowers. Wearing cream-colored vestments, Francis strode onto the esplanade in front of St. Peter's Basilica and took his place at an altar set up under a white canopy. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)On Easter Sunday, the most holy day of the Christian calendar, believers attended religious services — whether among the packed crowds before a new pope in St. Peter's Square, at sunrise services in India and Pakistan, or at churches flanked by blast walls and security cordons in Iraq.

Official Vatican text of pope's speech

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 11:48 AM PDT

Pope Francis delivers the Urbi et Orbi (to the city and to the world) blessing at the end of his first Easter Sunday Mass in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican Sunday, March 31, 2013. Pope Francis celebrated his first Easter Sunday Mass as pontiff in St. Peter's Square, packed by joyous pilgrims, tourists and Romans and bedecked by spring flowers. Wearing cream-colored vestments, Francis strode onto the esplanade in front of St. Peter's Basilica and took his place at an altar set up under a white canopy. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)VATICAN CITY (AP) — Following is the official English language translation provided by the Vatican of Pope Francis' Easter Sunday message, delivered in Italian from the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica.

Pope makes Easter pleas for Mideast peace

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 11:46 AM PDT

Pope Francis holds a San Lorenzo's soccer team jersey after celebrating his first Easter Mass in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, March 31, 2013. Pope Francis celebrated his first Easter Sunday Mass as pontiff in St. Peter's Square, packed by joyous pilgrims, tourists and Romans and bedecked by spring flowers.Wearing cream-colored vestments, Francis strode onto the esplanade in front of St. Peter's Basilica and took his place at an altar set up under a white canopy. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)VATICAN CITY (AP) — Pope Francis delivered a plea for peace in his first Easter Sunday message to the world, decrying the seemingly endless conflicts in the Middle East and on the Korean peninsula after celebrating Mass at an outdoor altar before more than 250,000 people in flower-bedecked St. Peter's Square.

Release for man convicted in '70 deadly Ariz. fire

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 11:41 AM PDT

TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) — A man who has spent more than four decades in prison for a Tucson hotel fire that killed 29 people, including some who jumped from windows to escape the searing heat, is expected to be released Tuesday as part of a deal with prosecutors.

Caroline Kennedy returns to poetry for 10th book

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 11:29 AM PDT

In this Tuesday, March 26, 2013 photo, Caroline Kennedy flips through her new book "Poems to Learn by Heart" during an interview with The Associated Press in New York. Kennedy's 10th and latest book extols the value of learning poems by heart. (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer)NEW YORK (AP) — Beginning work a few years ago on her latest book, an anthology of poems for young people, Caroline Kennedy found herself looking through one of her mother's scrapbooks. She burst into laughter, she says, as she came across a poem that her brother John, as a youngster, had picked out and copied as a gift to their poetry-loving mom.

Rivals prepare for legal battle over abortion bans

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 10:55 AM PDT

FILE - In this April 16, 2012 file photo, North Dakota Gov. Jack Dalrymple speaks in Bismarck, N.D. Dalrymple signed legislation on March 26, 2013 that would make North Dakota the nation's most restrictive state on abortion rights, banning the procedure if a fetal heartbeat can be detected — something that can happen as early as six weeks into a pregnancy. Rival legal teams, each well-financed and highly motivated, are girding for high-stakes court battles in the coming months over this law and one enacted in Arkansas that would would ban most abortions from the 12th week of pregnancy onward. (AP Photo/Dale Wetzel, File)Rival legal teams, well-financed and highly motivated, are girding for court battles over the coming months on laws enacted in Arkansas and North Dakota that would impose the nation's toughest bans on abortion.

Rubio: Reports of immigration deal 'premature'

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 10:44 AM PDT

FILE - In this March 12, 2013 file photo, Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla. is seen on Capitol Hill in Washington. The Republican Party's search for a way back to presidential success in 2016 is drawing a striking array of personalities and policy options. It's shaping up as a wide-open self-reassessment by the GOP. Some factions are trying to tug the party left or right. Others argue over pragmatism versus defiance. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh, File)WASHINGTON (AP) — Even with one of the largest hurdles to an immigration overhaul overcome, optimistic lawmakers on Sunday cautioned they had not finished work on a bill that would provide a path to citizenship for 11 million illegal immigrants.

Top Marlins prospect Fernandez added to roster

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 10:29 AM PDT

WASHINGTON (AP) — Top pitching prospect Jose Fernandez was among seven players added to the Miami Marlins' roster ahead of Monday's opener at Washington and is scheduled to make his major league debut April 7 against the Mets in New York.

Egyptian TV satirist released after questioning

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 10:28 AM PDT

A bodyguard secures popular Egyptian television satirist Bassem Youssef, who has come to be known as Egypt's Jon Stewart, as he enters Egypt's state prosecutors office to face accusations of insulting Islam and the country's Islamist leader in Cairo, Egypt, Sunday, March 31, 2013. Government opponents said the warrant against such a high profile figure, known for lampooning President Mohammed Morsi and the new Islamist political class, was an escalation in a campaign to intimidate critics. (AP Photo/Amr Nabil)CAIRO (AP) — A popular television satirist known as Egypt's Jon Stewart was released on bail Sunday after nearly five hours of interrogation over allegations that he broke the law by insulting Islam and the president.

Egyptian satirist questioned for insulting Mursi, freed on bail

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 10:28 AM PDT

Bassem Youssef, the country's best-known satirist, gestures to journalists and activists as he arrives at the high court to appear at the prosecutor's office in CairoBy Tom Perry CAIRO (Reuters) - Egyptian prosecutors questioned Egypt's most popular television satirist on Sunday over allegations that he insulted President Mohamed Mursi, a case regarded by his critics as new proof of a crackdown on dissent. Bassem Youssef turned himself in after the prosecutor general issued an arrest warrant for him on Saturday. He was released on bail of 15,000 Egyptian pounds ($2,200). Youssef rose to fame with a satirical online show after the uprising that swept autocrat Hosni Mubarak from power in 2011. His program, which has been compared to the Daily Show of U.S. ...

Paralyzed ex-athlete's foundation helping others

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 10:13 AM PDT

CLAREMONT, Calif. (AP) — As he rolls through the front door of the sprawling Claremont Club fitness center and shouts a friendly hello here and there, for just a moment it's as if nothing has changed since Hal Hargrave Jr. was the big, friendly teenage gym rat who haunted this place.

LA police ID suspect in girl's abduction case

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 10:08 AM PDT

This undated photo provided by the Los Angeles Police Department on Saturday March 30, 2013 shows Tobias Dustin Summers who was identified as a "child-kidnapping suspect," Los Angeles police said. Summers is a suspect in connection with the abduction of a 10-year-old girl who vanished from her San Fernando Valley home last week and was abandoned hours later in front of a hospital. (AP Photo/Los Angeles Police Department)LOS ANGELES (AP) — A transient with a long criminal record is being sought for the kidnapping of a 10-year-old girl who was snatched from her San Fernando Valley home before dawn last week and abandoned hours later in front of a hospital.

Tech firms bumping up perks to recruit, retain

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 10:07 AM PDT

Google bicycles are shown at the Google campus in Mountain View, Calif., Friday, March 15, 2013. Companies say extraordinary campuses are a necessity, to recruit and retain top talent, and to spark innovation and creativity in the workplace. And there are business benefits and financial results for companies that keep their workers happy. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)CUPERTINO, Calif. (AP) — Apple's ring-shaped, gleaming "Spaceship Headquarters" will include a world class auditorium and an orchard for engineers to wander. Google's new Bay View campus will feature walkways angled to force accidental encounters. Facebook, while putting final touches on a Disney-inspired campus including a Main Street with a B-B-Q shack, sushi house and bike shop, is already planning an even larger, more exciting new campus.

Louisville Slugger rolls out new logo, harder bats

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 10:01 AM PDT

In this Thursday, March 28, 2013 photo, Louisville Slugger baseball bats are shown, in Louisville, Ky. Louisville Slugger is rolling out a new logo for the first time in 33 years on a new bat that company officials say is designed to be the hardest wooden bat ever produced at the Louisville, Ky., factory. The new logo and bat will debut on Opening Day games in Major League Baseball. (AP Photo/Brett Barrouquere)LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — The familiar smell of hot dogs and freshly cut grass on Major League Baseball's Opening Day will be complemented by changes to the iconic Louisville Slugger bat, which is now made with firmer wood and stamped with a new logo.

Calif. officials found flaws in parolee trackers

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 09:57 AM PDT

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Thousands of ankle monitors that track the movements of paroled sex offenders and other criminals were ordered removed and replaced by California officials last year because they were flawed and unreliable, the Los Angeles Times (http://lat.ms/14wUoRM ) reported.

Caribbean nations search for oil amid spill fears

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 09:50 AM PDT

FILE - In this Sept. 5, 2005 file photo, the refinery of the state-owned Petroleum Company of Trinidad and Tobago Ltd., PETROTRIN, is shown in Pointe-a-Pierre, on the Gulf of Paria, Trinidad & Tobago. From the Bahamas and Cuba down to Aruba and Suriname, international oil companies are lining up to locate potentially rich offshore deposits in the Caribbean. The countries hope drilling could lead to a black-gold bonanza, easing demand for imported oil and diversifying their economies. (AP Photo/Shirley Bahadur, File)KINGSTON, Jamaica (AP) — The turquoise waters that have long brought treasure seekers to the Caribbean now are drawing a new kind of explorer as countries across the region increasingly open their seas to oil exploration.

Forgotten US airship crash recalled 80 years later

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 09:46 AM PDT

LAKEHURST, N.J. (AP) — History buffs will gather this week near the New Jersey coast to commemorate a major airship disaster.

Sen. Flake sees GOP contender backing gay marriage

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 09:40 AM PDT

WASHINGTON (AP) — Republican Sen. Jeff Flake says it is "inevitable" that his party will see one of its own run for president while supporting gay marriage.

Privately owned daily newspapers return to Myanmar

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 09:40 AM PDT

Kyaw Min Swe, chief editor in The Voice newspaper, holds a copy of his daily during an interview with the Associated Press in his office in Yangon, Myanmar, Sunday, March 31, 2013. The reform process under President Thein Sein, who took office two years ago this month, has included the abolition of direct censorship of local media. On Monday, independent daily newspapers will be able to publish for the first time since 1964. (AP Photo/Khin Maung Win)YANGON, Myanmar (AP) — For most people in Myanmar, it will be a novelty when privately run daily newspapers hit the streets on Monday. Many weren't even born when the late dictator Ne Win imposed a state monopoly on the daily press in the 1960s.

Afghan leader in Qatar to discuss peace talks

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 09:37 AM PDT

Afghan President Hamid Karzai speaks during a joint news conference with Secretary of State John Kerry, Monday, March 25, 2013, at the presidential palace in Kabul. Kerry and Karzai made a show of unity Monday, shortly after the U.S. military ceded control of its last detention facility in Afghanistan, ending a longstanding irritant in relations between the two countries. Kerry, in Afghanistan for an unannounced visit, said he and Karzai were "on the same page" when it comes to peace talks with the Taliban. (AP Photo/Jason Reed, Pool)DOHA, Qatar (AP) — Afghan President Hamid Karzai met with the emir of Qatar in Doha Sunday to discuss the possible opening of a Taliban office in the Gulf state.

Pope appeals for end to Korea tensions in first Easter message

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 09:31 AM PDT

Pope Francis speaks during his "Urbi et Orbi" address from a balcony in St. Peter's Square at the VaticanBy Philip Pullella VATICAN CITY (Reuters) - Pope Francis, appearing before more than 250,000 people for his first Easter Sunday address, called for world peace, respect for the environment and a diplomatic solution to the crisis on the Korean peninsula. In his "Urbi et Orbi" (to the city and the world) message, he also appealed for a resumption of peace negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians, an end to the civil war in Syria and political solutions to conflicts in several African countries. ...

Mayor: Deaths of Texas DA, wife 'not a random act'

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 09:17 AM PDT

This undated photo taken from the Kaufman County, Texas, website shows Kaufman County District Attorney Mike McLelland. McLelland and his wife were found killed in their house, Saturday, March 30, 2013, two months after one of his assistants was gunned down near their office, authorities said. (AP Photo/Kaufman County)KAUFMAN, Texas (AP) — Two months after one of his assistant prosecutors was gunned down, a north Texas district attorney and his wife were found killed in their home, authorities said.

Marketing studies help craft health overhaul pitch

Posted: 31 Mar 2013 09:16 AM PDT

FILE - In this March 15, 2013, file photo the Senate Minority Leader, Republican Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, points to a 7-foot stack of WASHINGTON (AP) — How do you convince millions of average Americans that one of the most complex and controversial programs devised by government may actually be a good deal for them?
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Saturday, March 30, 2013

NKorea says it is in a 'state of war' with SKorea

NKorea says it is in a 'state of war' with SKorea

NKorea says it is in a 'state of war' with SKorea

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 01:23 PM PDT

A visitor looks at North Korean territory at the unification observation post near the border village of Panmunjom, that has separated the two Koreas since the Korean War, in Paju, north of Seoul, South Korea, Saturday, March 30, 2013. North Korea issued its latest belligerent threat Saturday, saying it has entered "a state of war" with South Korea a day after its young leader threatened the United States because two American B-2 bombers flew a training mission in South Korea. (AP Photo/Lee Jin-man)SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — North Korea warned Seoul on Saturday that the Korean Peninsula had entered "a state of war" and threatened to shut down a border factory complex that's the last major symbol of inter-Korean cooperation.

Business, labor groups reach immigration deal as overhaul advances

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 01:20 PM PDT

AFL-CIO President Trumka speaks after a meeting with Obama in WashingtonBy Steve Holland WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Prospects for a broad U.S. immigration overhaul brightened on Saturday after major U.S. business and labor groups reached an agreement on a guest-worker program, a source familiar with the deal said. The agreement was reached on Friday night in a conference call between the head of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Tom Donohue, and the president of the AFL-CIO labor organization, Richard Trumka, with New York Democratic Senator Chuck Schumer acting as the mediator, according to the source, who spoke on condition of anonymity. ...

Man held in Paris over sawed off elephant tusk

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 01:16 PM PDT

PARIS (AP) — Authorities say a man has been arrested overnight for allegedly breaking into Paris' Museum of Natural History and cutting off a tusk from a centuries-old elephant skeleton with a chainsaw.

Pope presides over trimmed Easter Vigil service

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 01:16 PM PDT

Pope Francis delivers his blessing at the end of the Via Crucis (Way of the Cross) torchlight procession celebrated in front of the Colosseum on Good Friday in Rome, Friday, March 29, 2013. Pope Francis is sitting in silent prayer during this year's Good Friday procession, which is re-enacting Christ's crucifixion and recalling the wars and "violent fundamentalism" that are devastating the Middle East today. The Good Friday procession at Rome's Colosseum is one of the most dramatic rituals of Holy Week, when Christians commemorate the death and resurrection of Christ. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)VATICAN CITY (AP) — Pope Francis is celebrating a trimmed back Easter Vigil service after having reached out to Muslims and women during a Holy Week in which he has begun to put his mark on the Catholic Church.

Phil Ramone, Grammy-winning producer, dead at 72

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 01:15 PM PDT

In this Oct. 6, 2008 photo, Arts Advocacy Award honoree Phil Ramone attends the 2008 National Arts Awards presented by Americans For The Arts at Cipriani's 42nd St. in New York. Ramone, the Grammy Award-winning engineer and producer whose platinum touch included recordings with Ray Charles, Billy Joel and Paul Simon, has died. He was 72. His son, Matt Ramone, confirmed the death. Phil Ramone was among the most honored and successful music producers in history, winning 14 Grammys and working with many of the top artists of his era. (AP Photo/Evan Agostini)NEW YORK (AP) — Phil Ramone, the masterful Grammy Award-winning engineer, arranger and producer whose platinum touch included recordings with Ray Charles, Billy Joel and Paul Simon, has died at 72, his family said Saturday.

Venezuela's Maduro says opposition seeks violence

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 01:11 PM PDT

In this photo released by Miraflores Press Office, and taken Wednesday March 27, 2013, back dropped by a picture of the late Hugo Chavez Venezuela's acting President Nicolas Maduro greets supporters during a rally in Margarita Island, Venezuela. Holy Week in Venezuela is a time when millions traditionally take a welcome pause from work and politics to go on vacation. Yet that hasn't stopped Venezuela's time-pressed presidential candidates from sprinting through the holidays toward an April 14 election to replace the late Hugo Chavez, as they try to define both themselves and each other within weeks. Maduro Chavez's chosen successor, acting President Nicolas Maduro will run against opposition leader Henrique Capriles. (AP Photo /Miraflores Press Office)CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) — Venezuela' acting president, Nicolas Maduro, on Saturday accused his opponent of seeking to provoke violence by scheduling a dueling campaign rally in the same western state next week.

Mets LHP Santana to have shoulder surgery Tuesday

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 01:10 PM PDT

In this March 1, 2013, photo, New York Mets starting pitcher Johan Santana throws while working out before the Mets' spring training baseball game against the Detroit Tigers in Port St. Lucie, Fla. The Mets say Santana has injured his left shoulder again and likely will need surgery and miss the 2013 season. The two-time Cy Young Award winner missed the 2011 season following shoulder surgery in September 2010, then returned last year and pitched the first no-hitter in the team's history. He hasn't pitched in an exhibition game this year because of arm weakness. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)SARASOTA, Fla. (AP) — Johan Santana is set for another shoulder surgery that he hopes will save his career.

Penguins win 15th straight; Crosby hurt

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 01:30 PM PDT

Pittsburgh Penguins center Sidney Crosby (87) is helped by referee Ian Walsh (29) after being hit in the face with a puck during the first period of an NHL hockey game against the New York Islanders in Pittsburgh, Saturday, March 30, 2013. Crosby left the game. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)PITTSBURGH (AP) — The Pittsburgh Penguins overcame a bloody injury to Sidney Crosby on Saturday for their 15th straight victory, beating the New York Islanders 2-0 in Jermone Iginla's debut behind third-period goals from Matt Cooke and James Neal.

Shroud of Turin goes on display amid new research

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 01:09 PM PDT

Archbishop of Turin Cesare Nosiglia, center, kneels in front of the Shroud of Turin that went on display for a special TV appearance Saturday, March 30, 2013. The Shroud went on display amid new research disputing claims it's a medieval fake and purporting to date the linen some say was Jesus' burial cloth to around the time of his death. Pope Francis sent a special video message to the event in Turin's cathedral, but made no claim that the image on the shroud of a man with wounds similar to those suffered by Christ was really that of Jesus. He called the cloth an "icon," not a relic — an important distinction. "This image, impressed upon the cloth, speaks to our heart and moves us to climb the hill of Calvary, to look upon the wood of the Cross, and to immerse ourselves in the eloquent silence of love," he said. (AP Photo/Alessandro Di Marco, Pool)VATICAN CITY (AP) — The Shroud of Turin went on display for a special TV appearance Saturday amid new research disputing claims it's a medieval fake and purporting to date the linen some say was Jesus' burial cloth to around the time of his death.

The South: A near-solid block against 'Obamacare'

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 01:03 PM PDT

FILE – In this March 15, 2013 file photo Republican governor of South Carolina Nikki Haley speaks at the 40th annual Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in National Harbor, Md. As more Republicans give in to President Barack Obama's health-care overhaul, an opposition bloc remains across the South, which includes governors who lead some of the nation's poorest and unhealthiest states. ATLANTA (AP) — As more Republicans give in to President Barack Obama's health-care overhaul, an opposition bloc remains across the South, including from governors who lead some of the nation's poorest and unhealthiest states.

UCLA hires Steve Alford as new basketball coach

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 01:02 PM PDT

FILE - This Feb. 23, 2013 file photo shows New Mexico head coach Steve Alford directing his team against Colorado State in the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in Fort Collins, Colo. UCLA has hired New Mexico's Alford as its new head basketball coach, according to reports Saturday March 30. 2013. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski, File)LOS ANGELES (AP) — Steve Alford was hired as UCLA basketball coach on Saturday, spurning New Mexico days after he agreed to a new 10-year deal with the Lobos for a chance to run what he called "the premier basketball program in the country."

AP opens full news bureau in Myanmar

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 12:55 PM PDT

FILE - In this Tuesday, March 26, 2013 file photo, Buddhist devotees visit Yangon's famous Shwedagon pagoda on Full Moon Day of Tabaung, the last month in the Myanmar calendar, in Yangon, Myanmar. The Associated Press has become the first international news agency to open a bureau in Myanmar since a reformist government took power two years ago and began relaxing restrictions on the media for the first time in decades. The Information Ministry informed the AP on Saturday, March 30, 2013, it had granted the news agency permission to open a full-fledged office in Yangon. Japanese broadcaster NHK was also granted permission. (AP Photo/Khin Maung Win, File)YANGON, Myanmar (AP) — The Associated Press on Saturday became the first international news agency to open a bureau in Myanmar since a reformist government took power two years ago and began relaxing restrictions on the media for the first time in decades.

US hands control of troubled area to Afghans

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 12:50 PM PDT

FILE - In this Monday, Jan. 14, 2013 file photo a member of the Afghan special forces, left, briefs soldiers after a training exercise on the outskirts of Kabul, Afghanistan. A senior U.S. commander said Saturday, March 30, 2013 that American special operations forces have handed over their base in eastern Afghanistan's Nirkh district to local Afghan commandos -- meeting a demand by Afghan President Hamid Karzai that U.S. forces withdraw from the district after allegations that their Afghan counterparts committed human rights abuses there. (AP Photo/Musadeq Sadeq, File)KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) — Afghan special forces took control of part of a troubled province bordering Kabul from U.S. troops on Saturday, ending a weeks-long dispute over abuse allegations that prompted Afghan President Hamid Karzai to order all American forces out of the area.

McIlroy decides over lunch to play in Texas Open

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 12:43 PM PDT

FILE - In this March 7, 2013, file photo, Tiger Woods, right, talks with Rory McIlroy, of Northern Ireland, as they wait to tee off at the 13th tee during the first round play at the Cadillac Golf Championship in Doral, Fla. McIlroy sent a text message to Tiger Woods on Tuesday, mach 26, 2013, congratulating him on winning at Bay Hill and taking over the No. 1 world ranking again. (AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee, File)HUMBLE, Texas (AP) — Rory McIlroy never considered entering the Texas Open the week before the Masters until caddie J.P. Fitzgerald suggested it.

Kenyatta won Kenya's presidency fairly: Supreme Court

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 12:43 PM PDT

Passengers escape from a bus which overturned as it was stoned by violent demonstrators in the slum of Mathare, in NairobiBy James Macharia and Edmund Blair NAIROBI (Reuters) - Kenya's Supreme Court upheld Uhuru Kenyatta's presidential election victory on Saturday and his defeated rival accepted the ruling, helping douse tensions after tribal violence blighted the election five years ago. The decision cleared the way for Kenya's richest man to take the top job in east Africa's biggest economy, but left Western powers with the headache of dealing with a leader charged with crimes against humanity at the International Criminal Court. ...

Kentucky women hold off Delaware 69-62

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 12:41 PM PDT

Delaware's Elena Delle Donne reacts in the final seconds of a regional semifinal against Kentucky in the NCAA college basketball tournament in Bridgeport, Conn., Saturday, March 30, 2013. Kentucky won 69-62. (AP Photo/Jessica Hill)BRIDGEPORT, Conn. (AP) — Kentucky coach Matthew Mitchell has his team one victory away from the school's first Final Four. The Wildcats had to overcome an incredible effort by Elena Delle Donne to get there.

End of the line for Roadrunner supercomputer

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 12:41 PM PDT

This undated handout photo provided by IBM shows lead engineer Don Grice of IBM inspecting the world's fastest computer, nicknamed "Roadrunner", in the company's Poughkeepsie, N.Y. plant. It's the end of the line for the supercomputer that was once the fastest in the world and best known for breaking the once-elusive petaflop barrier. Roadrunner, the $121 million supercomputer housed at Los Alamos National Laboratory will be decommissioned on Sunday, March 31, 2013. The reason: The world of supercomputing is evolving. Roadrunner's replacement is faster, more energy efficient and less expensive. (AP Photo/IBM via FPS, HO)ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — It's the end of the line for Roadrunner, a first-of-its-kind collection of processors that once reigned as the world's fastest supercomputer.

Patients of Tulsa doctor line up to get tested

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 12:38 PM PDT

This 1977 license picture provided by the Oklahoma Board of Dentistry shows Dr. Scott Harrington. Health officials urged thousands of patients of Harrington, an oral surgeon, to undergo hepatitis and HIV testing, saying unsanitary conditions behind his office's spiffy facade posed a threat to his clients and made him a "menace to the public health." (AP Photo/Oklahoma Board of Dentistry)TULSA, Okla. (AP) — About 150 to 200 patients of a Tulsa oral surgeon accused of unsanitary practices queued outside a health clinic Saturday, hoping to discover whether they had been exposed to hepatitis or the virus that causes AIDS.

Kenyan Supreme Court upholds election result

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 12:37 PM PDT

A supporter of losing presidential candidate Raila Odinga gestures as he protests with others in the rain in front of riot police guarding the Supreme Court in Nairobi, Kenya Saturday, March 30, 2013. Kenya's Supreme Court on Saturday upheld the election of Uhuru Kenyatta as the country's next president, in a verdict on a petition by candidate Raila Odinga appealing the election result, ending an election season that riveted the nation amid fears of a repeat of the 2007-08 postelection violence. (AP Photo/Ben Curtis)NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) — Kenya's Supreme Court on Saturday upheld the election of Uhuru Kenyatta as the country's next president and the loser accepted that verdict, ending an election season that riveted the nation with fears of a repeat of the 2007-08 postelection violence.

White House takes North Korea's threats seriously

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 12:30 PM PDT

WASHINGTON (AP) — The White House said Saturday it is taking seriously new threats by North Korea but also noted Pyongyang's history of "bellicose rhetoric."

Pa. couple deny mistreatment of Russian teen

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 12:23 PM PDT

COLLEGEVILLE, Pa. (AP) — A couple from the Philadelphia area say they are shocked and hurt by accusations of mistreatment by an adopted son who left and went back to Russia.

Beckham relishing chance to play against Barcelona

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 12:23 PM PDT

Paris Saint Germain's David Beckham, second left, celebrates with Jeremy Menez after their goal over Montpellier's during their League One soccer match between PSG and Montpellier at Parc des Princes Stadium, in Paris, Friday March 29, 2013. (AP Photo/Francois Mori)PARIS (AP) — David Beckham is back to full match fitness, just in time for Paris Saint-Germain.

Serena Williams beats Sharapova in Sony Open final

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 12:16 PM PDT

Serena Williams holds the trophy after defeating Maria Sharapova, of Russia, in the final of the Sony Open tennis tournament, Saturday, March 30, 2013, in Key Biscayne, Fla. Williams won 4-6, 6-3, 6-0. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. (AP) — Serena Williams broke the Key Biscayne women's record for most titles, and Maria Sharapova set a new standard for futility in finals.

C. African Republic: March in favor of new leader

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 12:11 PM PDT

BANGUI, Central African Republic (AP) — A demonstration in support of Central African Republic's new leader Michel Djotodia was held in the capital, Bangui.

Ex-leader of Basque group ETA dies in France

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 12:09 PM PDT

FILE - In this May 21, 2008 file picture, Javier Lopez Pena, also known as "Thierry", one of the highest-ranking members of the armed Basque group ETA , leaves the house where Spanish and French authorities arrested him in Bordeaux, southwestern France in 2008. Lopez Pena, died early Saturday, March 30, 2013 in a hospital in France where he was receiving treatment while serving a prison sentence, the Interior Ministry says. Lopez, alias Thierry, 54, was driven from prison to hospital on March 11 suffering from a heart complaint but died early Saturday from a stroke, a ministry spokesman said, speaking on condition of anonymity in keeping with its security rules. (AP Photo/Bob Edme, file)MADRID (AP) — A former leader of armed Basque separatist group ETA died Saturday in a French hospital where he was receiving treatment while serving a prison sentence, officials said.

Syrian rebels enter strategic Aleppo neighborhood

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 12:07 PM PDT

In this Thursday March 28, 2013 image taken from video obtained from the Ugarit News, which has been authenticated based on its contents and other AP reporting, shows a building at the Syrian government checkpoint on fire, in Dael less than 15 kilometers (10 miles) from the Jordanian border in Daraa province, Syria. Thursday, March 28, 2013. Syrian rebels on Friday captured a strategic town near the border with Jordan after a day of fierce clashes that killed dozens of people, activists said, as opposition fighters expand their presence in the south, considered a gateway to Damascus. (AP Photo/Ugarit News via AP video)BEIRUT (AP) — Syrian rebels pushed into a strategic neighborhood in the northern city of Aleppo after days of heavy clashes, seizing control of at least part of the hilltop district and killing a pro-government cleric captured in the fighting, activists and state media said Saturday.

Longtime Alabama AD Mal Moore passes away

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 12:07 PM PDT

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) — Former Alabama athletic director Mal Moore, who played and coached under Bear Bryant and hired Nick Saban as football coach, has passed away.

Italy president seeks counsel to end gridlock

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 12:06 PM PDT

ROME (AP) — Italy's president on Saturday named 10 outside experts — including a central banker, a constitutional expert, and the head of Italy's statistics agency — to try to help end the political gridlock that has prevented the formation of a government more than a month after inconclusive elections.

Bank of Cyprus big savers to lose up to 60 percent

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 12:02 PM PDT

A hat with money belonging to a musician, is seen on the ground as he plays music at the main shopping street in central capital Nicosia, Cyprus, on Saturday, March 30, 2013. Big depositors at Cyprus' largest bank may be forced to accept losses of up to 60 percent, far more than initially estimated under the European rescue package to save the country from bankruptcy, officials said Saturday. (AP Photo/Petros Karadjias)NICOSIA, Cyprus (AP) — Big depositors at Cyprus' largest bank may be forced to accept losses of up to 60 percent, far more than initially estimated under the European rescue package to save the country from bankruptcy, officials said Saturday.

Egypt issues arrest warrant for TV satirist

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 11:48 AM PDT

FILE - In this Saturday Dec. 8, 2012 file photo, Egyptian TV host Bassem Youssef addresses attendants at a gala dinner party in Cairo, Egypt. Egypt's state news agency said Saturday, March 30, 2013 that the public prosecution office has issued an arrest warrant against a popular TV satirist for allegedly insulting Islam and the country's president. The warrant issued Saturday is the latest in a series of legal action against Youssef, known as Egypt's Jon Stewart. The warrant comes amid a widening crackdown against opposition figures, driving fears over freedoms of expression and assembly. (AP Photo/Ahmed Omar, File)CAIRO (AP) — Egypt's state prosecutors ordered the arrest Saturday of a popular television satirist for allegedly insulting Islam and the country's leader, in a move that government opponents say is aimed at silencing critics of Islamist President Mohammed Morsi.

Finals Preview? Heat visit Spurs on Sunday

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 11:43 AM PDT

Miami Heat guard Dwyane Wade looks up at a scoreboard after he was called for a foul on Chicago Bulls guard Jimmy Butler during the first half of an NBA basketball game in Chicago on Wednesday, March 27, 2013. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)By the time the Miami Heat get on their plane to come home late Sunday night, they could have a stranglehold on the race to finish with the NBA's best record.

Central African Republic leader, facing isolation, says no reprisals

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 11:43 AM PDT

Central African Republic's new President Djotodia speaks to Prime Minister Tiangaye at a rally in support of Djotodia in downtown BanguiBy Ange Aboa BANGUI (Reuters) - Central African Republic's new leader Michel Djotodia, facing international isolation after seizing power, said on Saturday he would not take reprisals against rivals and called on those who fled abroad to return. The United States said on Saturday it did not recognize Djotodia, who toppled President Francois Bozize on March 24 after leading thousands of his Seleka rebels into the mineral-rich nation's capital Bangui, triggering days of looting. ...

Animal Kingdom wins $10 million Dubai World Cup

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 11:39 AM PDT

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Animal Kingdom pulled away down the straight to win the $10 million Dubai World Cup and give Americans their first victory in the world's richest horse race since 2009.

Algeria's southern unemployed demand oil jobs

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 11:36 AM PDT

In this photo dated March 14, 2013, protesters gestures during a demonstration by thousands of young unemployed men demanding jobs in the oil industry in Algeria's southern city of Ouargla. Protests by the unemployed in southern Algeria are raising the specter of rising unrest in the country's sensitive oil regions, and are increasingly attracting the attention of al-Qaida. (AP Photo/Nabil Zahani)ALGIERS, Algeria (AP) — Protests by the unemployed in southern Algeria are raising the specter of rising unrest in the country's sensitive oil regions, and are increasingly attracting the attention of al-Qaida.

Italy president pledges to stay to deal with crisis

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 11:36 AM PDT

Italian President Giorgio Napolitano gestures as he leaves after media conference at the Quirinale palace in RomeBy Giselda Vagnoni ROME (Reuters) - Italian President Giorgio Napolitano on Saturday ruled out standing down early to make way for new parliamentary elections, after the failure of attempts to form a government this week, saying he would keep trying to find a way out of the deadlock. Napolitano, whose term ends on May 15, spoke after news reports suggested he might resign to get around constitutional provisions which prevent a president dissolving parliament and calling elections during his final months in office. ...

Crosby hit in mouth by puck, will not return

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 11:29 AM PDT

Pittsburgh Penguins center Sidney Crosby (87) is helped by referee Ian Walsh (29) after being hit in the face with a puck during the first period of an NHL hockey game against the New York Islanders in Pittsburgh, Saturday, March 30, 2013. Crosby left the game. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)PITTSBURGH (AP) — Sidney Crosby has been hit in the mouth by a puck and the Pittsburgh Penguins' star captain will not return to the game against the New York Islanders.

Source: Business, labor get deal on worker program

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 11:20 AM PDT

FILE - In this May 17, 2012 file photo, Sen. Charles Schumer, D-N.Y. gestures during a news conference on Capitol Hill in Washington. Big business and major labor unions appeared ready Friday, March 29, 2013 to end a fight over a new low-skilled worker program that had threatened to upend negotiations on a sweeping immigration bill in the Senate providing a pathway to citizenship for 11 million immigrants already in the U.S. Schumer, who's been brokering talks between the AFL-CIO and the Chamber of Commerce, said in a statement that negotiators are "very close, closer than we have ever been, and we are very optimistic." He said there were still a few issues remaining. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh, File)WASHINGTON (AP) — Big business and labor have resolved a dispute over a low-skilled worker program that threatened to hold up agreement on a sweeping immigration bill, according to a person familiar with the negotiations.

Wyo. power plant stalls 17 years, faces skepticism

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 11:20 AM PDT

WRIGHT, Wyo. (AP) — In Wyoming, folks call it the "No Elk" plant, an $800 million project that — once finished — was meant to supply coal-fired power to 100,000 homes and support dozens of full-time jobs on the rolling prairie of northeast Wyoming.

US hand control of troubled area to Afghans

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 11:18 AM PDT

FILE - In this Monday, Jan. 14, 2013 file photo a member of the Afghan special forces, left, briefs soldiers after a training exercise on the outskirts of Kabul, Afghanistan. A senior U.S. commander said Saturday, March 30, 2013 that American special operations forces have handed over their base in eastern Afghanistan's Nirkh district to local Afghan commandos -- meeting a demand by Afghan President Hamid Karzai that U.S. forces withdraw from the district after allegations that their Afghan counterparts committed human rights abuses there. (AP Photo/Musadeq Sadeq, File)KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) — Afghan special forces took control of part of a troubled province bordering Kabul from U.S. troops on Saturday, ending a weeks-long dispute over abuse allegations that prompted Afghan President Hamid Karzai to order all American forces out of the area.

Iginla makes Penguins debut against Islanders

Posted: 30 Mar 2013 10:47 AM PDT

Pittsburgh Penguins' Jarome Iginla (12) and center Sidney Crosby warm up before an NHL hockey game against the New York Islanders in Pittsburgh, Saturday, March 30, 2013. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)PITTSBURGH (AP) — After scoring more than 500 goals in Calgary, Jarome Iginla just wants to fit in with Sidney Crosby and the streaking Pittsburgh Penguins.
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