NewsSkimmer

Idea of gas-tax holiday dies quick death

The political vision of a summer gas tax holiday died a quick death in Congress, losing to a view that federal excise taxes on gasoline and diesel fuel will have to go up if they go anywhere.

Iraq PM: Troops out 'as soon as possible'

Freddie Mac CEO got $19.8 million in '07

Freddie Mac CEO Richard Syron pocketed nearly $19.8 million in compensation last year, according to the SEC, even as the troubled mortgage company's stock lost half its value.

Midyear earnings offer some hope

Norman grabs 2-stroke lead at British Open

53-year-old former champ leads K.J. Choi, Padraig Harrington.

Opinion: Sink or swim? Only the Shark knows

Angelina Jolie, newborn twins leave hospital

Angelina Jolie and her newborn twins early Saturday left the French hospital where she gave birth, the Fondation Lenval said.

‘Dark Knight’ sets single-day record

Diet like a star

Want to look like an A-lister this summer? We’ve got the dish on smart ways celebs eat, drink and stay svelte (plus a few scary slimmers to steer clear of!).

Low-fat milk recommended for some toddlers

Cosmic Log: Will the space elevator rise?

Science editor Alan Boyle's Weblog: Space elevator enthusiasts gather to assess how far they've risen on what they hope will be a radically new path to orbit and beyond.

Seven superpowers destined for the masses

Surprise storms don't need to sink your plans

The weather is beyond your control, but surprise summer storms and delayed flights don't have to wreck your travel itinerary.

Who's gaining from a weak dollar?