Gates guns for Google

Microsoft has announced plans to offer an online version of its Windows operating software, going head-to-head with archrival Google in the field of cyber applications. Ethan Lindsey reports.

Direct to consumer advertising

The FDA is considering revising rules about how much risk information prescription drug commercials must include in their television advertising. Hillary Wicai reports

"Livestrong" lawsuit

Lance Armstrong and his charitable foundation have won a court case that allows them to stop internet sites reselling his trademark yellow bracelets for profit. Stacey Vanek Smith reports.

Three Rs for the littlest ones

A new study out shows even the children of middle class parents benefit from public preschool. Sarah Gardner reports.

All wrapped up

Commentator Beth Teitell looks at the pheonomenon of school fundraisers — in overdrive.

Gas prices dip, a little

The government reports Wednesday that crude oil inventories grew for the fourth straight week. At the same time, the average price of gas has dropped to pre-Katrina levels. Bob Moon reports.

New Orleans levees in the spotlight

The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee hears expert testimony Wednesday about why the levees protecting New Orleans failed during Hurricane Katrina. Alisa Roth reports.

Tax recommendation reaction

President Bush's tax reform panel has released it recommendations, and now comes the parsing. As Janet Babin reports, many businesses are none too enthusiastic about the proposals.

Building on Brownfields

EPA Administrator Stephen Johnson is expected to announce new rules today establishing clear standards for environmental assessment of contaminated sites. Sam Eaton reports.

German reform hits a snag

The new coalition government in Germany has begun to collapse even before it has been sworn in. From the European Desk in London, Stephen Beard reports.

A poor grapefruit outlook

Hurricane Wilma devastated more than half of Florida's grapefruit crop. Robin Sussingham looks at what the damage will likely mean for consumers.