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President Bush signs the Pension Protection Act of 2006, which he calls the biggest reform of the nation's pension system in more than three decades. The legislation is designed to strengthen the government's deficit-ridden pension insurance program. But some companies say the stricter funding requirements could push more firms to dump pension programs in favor of 401(k) programs.

Members of Congress wrap up work on spending and taxes before the Thanksgiving break. Early Friday morning, the Senate approved a $60 billion package of tax cuts, and the House narrowly approved $50 billion in spending cuts. But finding common ground in December won't be easy.

The pride and patriotism usually associated with Russia's most important holiday is mixed with apprehension and unease over what this year's Victory Day may bring.

The Supreme Court hears arguments on whether police are required to inform foreign nationals of their right to talk to their countries' consulates when arrested. A 1969 treaty provides that right; the court considers whether police bear the burden of informing the suspect of that right.

Recruiting and hiring thousands of additional federal Border Patrol agents is a key part of President Bush's plan to reduce illegal immigration. But tough entry requirements and low pay are making it difficult for the Border Patrol to find and retain enough new agents to meet that goal.

The election of Iraq's first parliament since the fall of Saddam Hussein is a big step in the country's attempt to redefine itself. Security analyst Anthony Cordesman says its just a beginning.

Everyone suddenly wants to learn Mandarin Chinese. The problem is that there are few credentialed teachers. Now the Chinese government is making plans to develop teaching partnerships with U.S. public school districts.

Richard Bernard Moore is the first prisoner in South Carolina to face the choice of execution methods since the state made electrocution the default and gave inmates the option to face rifles instead.

Hurricane Rita gains strength as it moves across the Gulf of Mexico on a path toward Texas, prompting mandatory evacuation orders for much of the Texas coast. But its path may mean New Orleans experiences only rain and wind. Even so, the city continues its evacuation.

The House of Representatives approves an overhaul of the nation's bankruptcy laws, voting 302 to 126 in favor of a bill that will make it more difficult for people to erase debts by declaring bankruptcy. The Senate passed the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act last month.