Amanda Knox appeals slander conviction in Italy

(Reuters) - Lawyers for Amanda Knox, who was cleared of murder in October by an Italian court, on Monday asked an appeals court there to overturn her slander conviction as well, a spokesman said.

Cab driver admits giving cash to militant linked to al Qaeda

CHICAGO (Reuters) - A Chicago cab driver pleaded guilty on Monday to giving hundreds of dollars to a senior Pakistan-based al Qaeda operative implicated in militant plots in South Asia and Europe who was killed in a suspected U.S. drone strike in June.

"Intentional" explosion kills husband, two sons of missing woman

(Reuters) - An "intentional" house explosion on Sunday near Tacoma, Washington killed the husband and two sons of a Utah woman missing since December 2009, fire department officials said.

US Senate approves sweeping aviation bill, sends to White House

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The Senate approved a $63 billion bill on Monday that funds U.S. aviation programs for four years and authorizes new steps for the government to modernize the air traffic system.

Former intern reveals 18-month affair with JFK

(Reuters) - A former White House intern is speaking out about an 18-month affair she had with President John F. Kennedy while he was in office, revealing intimate details in a new book to be published on Wednesday.

U.S. judge grants more time for accused Tucson shooter

SAN DIEGO (Reuters) - A federal judge has agreed that the man charged with a deadly shooting spree last year that gravely wounded then-Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords has made "measureable progress" in regaining his mental fitness to stand trial.

New Jersey gay marriage votes set for later in February

NEW YORK (Reuters) - New Jersey's Democrat-controlled state legislature will vote next week on bills to legalize same-sex marriage, the Democratic leadership said on Monday, adding pressure to Governor Chris Christie who opposes the measure.

Ohio moves to restrict dangerous animals after scare

CLEVELAND (Reuters) - An Ohio lawmaker on Tuesday will propose restrictions on exotic animal ownership, four months after the release of dozens of dangerous beasts including tigers and grizzly bears set off a brief panic in rural Ohio.

Former Wisconsin athletic official faces second allegation

MADISON, Wis (Reuters) - University of Wisconsin police are investigating a second allegation of misconduct against former athletic department official John Chadima, previously accused of making unwanted sexual advances toward a male student at a party.

Record 129 dolphins stranded at Cape Cod this year

BOSTON (Reuters) - A record 129 Common dolphins have beached themselves along the scenic shores south of Boston since January 12, leading researchers to look beyond the hook-shaped geography of Cape Cod for definitive answers why so many animals are getting stranded.