Topic: Springfield (Missouri)

Gabrielle Giffords returns to Capitol Hill, but political future still uncertain

Gabrielle Giffords, Democrat of Arizona, cast her vote Monday night on the debt deal in the House chamber. However, with recovery still ongoing, Gabrielle Giffords' future in politics is unclear.

Gabrielle Giffords appears for debt deal vote (VIDEO)

Gabrielle Giffords, who was shot in the head in January, surprised many when she appeared for the historic House vote on the debt deal, Monday.

Affordable colleges: a new tool for cost comparison

Affordable colleges might be easier to track down now with a new online tool out from the US Department of Education, which compares the cost of attending different kinds of institutions. We put together a list of the most and least expensive 4-year or longer institutions, in three categories: public institutions, not-for-profit institutions, and for-profit institutions. Prices are based on the "net cost" of each, which is the average price after grants or scholarship aid is subtracted from the total cost of attendance. Often, the average net cost is quite different from an institution's listed tuition. The numbers here are based on costs for the 2008-2009 academic year.

Joplin tornado: How you can help

Here's a list of a some of the major charitable agencies assisting those affected by the May 22 tornado in Joplin, Mo. and where you can send donations.

Oklahoma, Alabama, Joplin: Why we're seeing so many tornadoes and superstorms

The superfunnels that hit Tuscaloosa, Ala., in late April and Joplin, Mo., on Sunday, are generated by storm systems whose journeys across the country are slowed by a roadblocked jet stream.

In job search, good references are key

Job seekers often overlook the importance of choosing and cultivating the right references in their job search.

Mafia arrests: Four of the most famous mob busts in history

The FBI announced one of the biggest mob busts in history on Thursday. Here are four other major law enforcement wins against American gangsters.

Egg recall: DeCoster-linked farm releases contaminated eggs. Again.

Egg recall this past week involves megafarmer Jack DeCoster, whose farm was part of this summer's huge 550 million egg recall.

Dallas tornado: Storm that killed 2 in Texas continues north

Dallas tornado: A series of tornadoes touched down outside of downtown Dallas, damaging warehouses in an area near Dallas Love Field.

Why women are (or are not) reading Sarah Palin

American voices: Resilience runs deep in a somber time

On a journey from Plymouth Rock to the Grand Canyon, we find an America that is neither as divided as talk-show histrionics would suggest, nor as sullen as a flagging economy says we should be. We find a country that is struggling, yes, but is also pragmatic and still harbors a little idealism.

The American mystery man behind Aung San Suu Kyi's latest troubles

John Yettaw's unauthorized visit to the home of the Burmese Nobel Peace Prize laureate may land her in jail for another five years. Final arguments for her speedy trial begin Monday.

American road trip

America's historic Route 66 fascinates visitors from other countries.

Nationwide 'teach-in' planned to address climate change

Piles of coal, battling windmills, and political leaders descend on college campuses.