NASA lunar mission combines romance of moon with lust for cosmic violence

WASHINGTON — For as long as man has looked up, the moon has inspired romance, poetry and songs. Man also likes blowing things up. Now we get to do both — in the name of science.

After years of making sport of others’ personal foibles, David Letterman exposes his own

NEW YORK — Some of the politicians zinged by David Letterman over the years for their indiscretions are offering pity and advice for the scandalized talk show host.

Obama: Intense health care debate is about government’s proper role _ not about racism

WASHINGTON — President Barack Obama said Friday that angry criticisms about his health care agenda are driven by an intense debate over the proper role of government — and not by racism.

Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin says she will resign from office July 26; doesn’t announce plans

WASILLA, Alaska — Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin made a surprise announcement Friday that she is resigning from office at the end of the month without explaining why she plans to step down, raising speculation that she would focus on a run for the White House in the 2012 race.

Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin says she will resign from office July 26; spokesman won’t say why

WASILLA, Alaska — Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin surprised supporters Friday and announced she is resigning from office at the end of the month without explaining why she plans to step down — throwing into question whether she would seek a run for the White House in 2012.

Quotations of the day

Quotations of the day

“I am not without faults and I am far short of perfect. I am dealing with my behavior and personal failings behind closed doors with my family. Those feelings should be shared by us alone.” Tiger Woods, in a statement following a cover story in Us Weekly magazine that reports a Los Angeles cocktail waitress claims she had a 31-month affair with him.

Palin supporters hope to raise $500K in Web-a-thon for Alaska governor’s legal defense fund

ANCHORAGE, Alaska — Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin’s supporters are holding a Web-a-thon to raise money for her legal defense fund.

Russell Crowe fighting to save Steve Irwin’s reserve from mining

WASHINGTON - Russell Crowe is fighting to stop Australian officials from strip mining in late pal Steve Irwin’s wildlife reserve in Queensland.

Biden bearing brunt of Obama’s ‘non-jokability’!

CHICAGO - Since US President Barack Obama is hard to mock, jesters are turning their aim to Vice President Joe Biden.

Julia Roberts plants a kiss on David Letterman’s lips

LONDON - Talk show host David Letterman, known for leaving the guests dumbfounded with his witty questions, was at a loss of words when Hollywood actress Julia Roberts planted a kiss on his lips.