Ground forces head for Gaza...Bush, Olmert talk...Mortgage rates fall again

GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip (AP) More Israeli troops and tanks are headed to the Gaza border. An Israeli defense official says commanders are preparing for a possible ground assault. Despite international pressure for a cease-fire, Israel is continuing its bombardment of the Hamas-ruled territory today.

CRAWFORD, Texas (AP) The White House says President George W.

Bush and Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert (EH'-hood OHL'-murt) talked about ways to "end the violence" in the Mideast. A spokesman says Bush voiced concern about civilians coming under fire in Gaza, and that Olmert assured him Israel is trying to limit civilian casualties.

KAMPALA, Uganda (AP) Three African nations are deploying troops to remote eastern Congo after reports that Ugandan rebels there have killed more than 400 people since Christmas. A rebel spokesman denies his group was responsible for the attacks.

CHICAGO (AP) U.S. Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald wants more time to return an indictment against Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich (blah-GOY'-uh-vich), who's accused of corruption. Fitzgerald is asking for a 90-day extension. Federal prosecutors normally have 30 days to file an indictment against a defendant. In this case, that would be a week from today.

Washington (AP) Rates on 30-year mortgages have fallen to a record low for the third straight week. Borrowers are taking advantage of the drop, sending new applications soaring. Freddie Mac says average rates on 30-year fixed mortgages dropped to 5.1 percent this week, down from the previous record of 5.14 percent.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 12-31-08 1142CST | save this article / add to your favorites list