Burris still waiting...Gaza fighting resumes...Teen births



Washington (AP) When Roland Burris appears before a panel of Illinois state lawmakers tomorrow, Senate leaders are hoping he'll swear that he never promised Gov. Rod Blagojevich (blah-GOY'-uh-vich) anything in return for his appointment to Barack Obama's former Senate seat. That's one remaining obstacle before Burris can join the Senate something he says he's expecting "very shortly."


WASHINGTON (AP) Two days ago, Senator Dianne Feinstein of California was expressing reservations about President-elect Barack Obama's choice for CIA chief. But today, the incoming chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee says she'll support Leon Panetta.

Feinstein says she spoke with him about the job last night and came away confident he'll surround himself with good people at the agency.

GAZA CITY, Gaza (AP) Israel has resumed airstrikes in Gaza after a brief pause today to allow food and fuel to reach Palestinian civilians. Hamas rocket attacks have also resumed.

Meanwhile, an Israeli envoy is expected in Cairo tomorrow to discuss a cease-fire proposal from the presidents of Egypt and France.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) A government report indicating U.S. oil reserves are much greater than expected has sent oil prices down again. Sweet crude for February delivery fell nearly $6, settling at $42.63 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange.

ATLANTA (AP) New government statistics show that Mississippi now has the nation's highest birth rate among teens. The report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says Mississippi's rate was more than 60 percent higher than the national average in 2006, with 68 births for every 1,000 teenage women. Texas and New Mexico were next, while New England had the lowest rates.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 01-07-09 1443CST | save this article / add to your favorites list