NRA BLAMES VIDEO GAMES. Violent films and Videos.
Researchers doubt there is a direct link between violent media and aggression in viewers.

CONSTITUTIONAL POWERS. Giving al-Azhar Rights.
Powers to pass judgment on the nation’s laws, as an ancient mosque is at heart of fears that Egypt is turning toward theocracy.

SENATE ELIMINATION. US Panel Cuts Measures
Anti-leaks provisions would have severely restricted officials’ and spy agencies’ ability to interact with reporters.

NIGHTMARE EXPRESSWAY. Road Mirrors India’s Problems.

December solstice is when the sun reaches its most southerly declination of -23.5 degrees, when the North Pole is tilted 23.5 degrees away from the sun. Depending on the Gregorian calendar, the December solstice occurs annually on a day between December 20 and December 23.

This year it was today, as all places above a latitude of 66.5 degrees north (Arctic Polar Circle) are now in darkness, while locations below a latitude of 66.5 degrees south (Antarctic Polar Circle) receive 24 hours of daylight.

FISCAL CLIFF. Time For Plan C.
Avoiding a rank and file revolt, House GOP leaders scuttle plans to vote on the so-called Plan B, a proposal to avoid a too close for comfort fiscal cliff.

REMEMBERING SCHOOL SHOOTING VICTIMS. One Week Later.
Many plan a moment of silence on Friday morning, while buildings in Connecticut with bells have been asked to ring them 26 times.

DREAMING OF A WHITE CHRISTMAS. Terrible Road Conditions.
Whiteout conditions in the Midwest are closing interstate highways and canceling flights for many holiday travelers.