AP - As a portly woman plodded ahead of him on the sidewalk, the obese mayor of America’s fattest and unhealthiest city explained why health is not a big local issue.

Source:W. Virginia town shrugs at poorest health ranking
(AP)

Reuters - As Congress debates legislation to help struggling automakers on Monday, many Americans said they were uneasy with the plan, arguing that while it may save jobs, it would reward companies for pursuing bad business practices.

Source:Americans uneasy over bailout for automakers
(Reuters)

AP - Space shuttle Endeavour linked with the international space station on Sunday, kicking off a huge home makeover that will allow twice as many astronauts to live up there beginning next year.

Source:Shuttle Endeavour links with space station
(AP)

AP - Hardline opponents of an auto industry bailout branded the industry a “dinosaur” whose “day of reckoning” is near, while Democrats pledged Sunday to do their best to get Detroit a slice of the $700 billion Wall Street rescue in this week’s lame-duck session of Congress.

Source:Showdown looming in Congress over automaker rescue
(AP)

AP - Gadget makers love to sell us on all the things their devices can do, whether it’s letting us chat with distant friends at any time or watch movies on our commute. But can anyone fix this stuff when it breaks?

Source:Gadget survey finds many bugs can't be fixed
(AP)

Reuters - Afghanistan’s Taliban insurgents said on Monday they were drawing up a response to an offer from President Hamid Karzai of safe passage for insurgent leaders who wanted to talk peace.

Source:Afghan Taliban prepare response to Karzai safety vow
(Reuters)

Reuters - The United States government should not worry about deficits over the next two years while spending money to jumpstart the ailing economy, President-elect Barack Obama said in a television interview that aired on Sunday.

Source:Obama says aiding economy trumps budget deficit
(Reuters)

Reuters - Psychological group therapy for women with breast cancer may help them not only to cope better with their disease but also live longer, U.S. researchers said on Monday.

Source:Group therapy may extend lives of cancer patients
(Reuters)

Reuters - Iraq’s cabinet approved a pact on Sunday that will let U.S. troops stay in the country until 2011, setting a final date to end a military presence that began with the 2003 invasion that toppled Saddam Hussein.

Source:Iraq cabinet backs pact giving U.S. troops 3 years
(Reuters)

AP - President-elect Barack Obama is forming a White House leadership team that combines experienced Washington insiders who can help build a bridge with Congress and trusted associates who share his Chicago roots.

Source:Obama staff combines DC with Chicago
(AP)