Hasan contacts dispute...Brazilian blackouts...CLinton encouragement

Washington (AP) There's disagreement at the Pentagon about who knew what and when about communications the alleged Fort Hood gunman had with a radical cleric. The communications date back to 2008. A Pentagon terrorism investigator agreed with a task force that the communications did not merit further investigation. But a senior defense official says neither the Army nor any other part of the Pentagon knew of Maj. Nidal Hasan's contacts with any Muslim extremists.

NEW YORK (AP) The New York Times is reporting that former top executives of the security contractor Blackwater say the firm sent about $1 million to its Iraq office with the intention of paying off Iraqi officials. Those officials were angry about the fatal shootings of 17 civilians by Blackwater employees. The case has resulted in lawsuits and criminal charges.

RIO DE JANEIRO (AP) A massive blackout has left parts of Brazil's two largest cities and other areas in darkness. Large parts of Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo and other cities in several states are without power. Media reports cite a power loss from a hydroelectric dam. CBS's "60 Minutes" reported Sunday that several past Brazilian power outages were caused by hackers.

WASHINGTON (AP) Former President Bill Clinton is urging Senate Democrats to follow the lead of the House and pass health care legislation. Clinton says he told the lawmakers in a private meeting in Washington that an imperfect bill is preferable to another failure like the one he and the party endured in 1994.

LOS ANGELES (AP) A judge in Los Angeles says Michael Jackson's father does not stand to inherit any of his son's assets and cannot challenge the appointment of the executors chosen by the singer to handle his will. Joe Jackson will be allowed to seek a family allowance from the estate.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 11-10-09 1954CST | save this article / add to your favorites list