July 4 fireworks shows go up in smoke

With the recession eating away at state and local budgets everywhere, it will be a silent Fourth of July across the country for many communities that have canceled their annual fireworks shows.

Rusty Ramirez hitless in Dodgers' victory

Returning from his suspension for violating baseball's drug policy, Manny Ramirez barely hit the ball out of the infield in the Dodgers' 6-3 win over the San Diego Padres on Friday.

2 GIs die in bombing, gunfight at Afghan base
Militants blew up a vehicle outside the gates of a U.S. base in Afghanistan on Saturday, sparking a two-hour gunbattle, officials said. Two American troops were killed and four others injured.

Cops hunt serial killer after 4 shootings
Authorities in South Carolina are looking for a serial killer they believe has shot four people to death within 10 miles of each other over the past six days.

Chestnut, Kobayashi face off again in eat-off

Coney kings hot-dogged it for the cameras yesterday, mustering tough-guy poses and stare downs at the weigh-in for Saturday's traditional July 4th hot-dog eating contest.

Iran leader's aide: Mousavi is a U.S. agent

A top aide to Iran's supreme leader called the country's main opposition figure a U.S. agent and accused him in an editorial Saturday of committing crimes against the nation.

N. Korea marks July 4 with missile barrage
North Korea fired seven ballistic missiles off its eastern coast Saturday, South Korea said, a violation of U.N. resolutions and an apparent message of defiance to the United States on its Independence Day.

Analysis: Armstrong could spark best Tour ever

Analysis: Cyclist looks as good as ever, but even-better teammate stands in his way

Report: Turkoglu ditches Blazers for Raptors

Free-agent forward Hedo Turkoglu decided Friday to pass on Portland and is reportedly likely to sign with Toronto for $56 million over five years.