ConsumerMan: Shady retirement seminars
Many Americans nearing retirement are bombarded with invitations to attend financial management seminars. A free lunch is offered. But that lunch may prove to be pricey.

Oil hits 3-year low; gas at $2 in 23 states

Oil prices on hit levels not seen in more than three years and retail gas prices are now below $2 across nearly half of the country on dour reports suggesting an economic pullback.

U.S. shifts its approach in Iraq

With violence down sharply this year, the U.S. military is broadening its efforts to reconcile Sunnis and Shiites.

Congress votes to extend jobless benefits
Congress has passed legislation extending jobless benefits through the December holidays, keeping checks flowing to laid-off workers who would otherwise lose them.

EpiPens: life-saving kid accessory
As allergies to peanuts, milk, eggs and gluten have risen, a cult-like following has emerged around the EpiPen, a single-shot  of medication that can halt a potentially deadly reaction.

Pet store chain linked to puppy mills
After an eight-month investigation, the Humane Society of the United States accused Petland, the national pet store chain, of selling dogs bred under appalling conditions.

Governors pledge fight on global warming
Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, his counterparts in 12 states and regional leaders from four other countries signed a declaration Wednesday pledging to work together to combat global warming.

Retirement dreams yield to despair

A rising number of people have seen their retirement plans evaporate. As 401(k)s dwindle, their dreams of golden years are being replaced by feelings of hopelessness and  anger.

Holder's ascent revives pardon furor

Eric Holder is in line for nomination by President-elect Barack Obama to the attorney general's job that Holder has long wanted, but a 2001 episode with fugitive financier Marc Rich is stirring partisan acrimony.