GALVESTON, Texas (AP) Forecasters predict Tropical Storm Edouard's center could make landfall at near-hurricane strength just east of Galveston, Texas, around mid-day today. Rain and wind are already lashing coastal Louisiana.

CHICAGO (AP) Tens of thousands of customers are without power after nasty storms swept across northern Illinois last night. More than 350 flights were canceled at O'Hare International Airport and passengers had to be evacuated into the lower levels of the terminal at one point.

GUANTANAMO BAY NAVAL BASE, Cuba (AP) A jury of military officers will spend a second day deliberating a verdict for Osama bin Laden's former driver and alleged bodyguard. They spent 45 minutes behind closed doors yesterday. Salim Hamdan could spend life in prison if he's convicted of conspiracy and supporting terrorism.

HUNTSVILLE, Texas (AP) Jose Medellin (meh-deh-YEEN') hopes the Supreme Court will keep him out of the death chamber today. The Mexican native is set to die for his part in the gang rape and killing of two teenage girls in Houston 15 years ago. His lawyers argue that Medellin wasn't allowed to consult the Mexican consulate for legal help after his arrest, which may violate a 1963 treaty.

SINGAPORE (AP) oil prices are down to near $120 a barrel in Asia today. Prices have fallen on worries that the slumping U.S.

economy will keep cutting into consumer demand.

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