Trip to Asia...Pondering Afghanistan...Accused shooter

Washington (AP) President Barack Obama is launching a weeklong presidential trip to the Far East today. But first, he'll make a stop in Alaska, his first visit to the state. The president will speak deliver remarks and meet with service members at Elmendorf Air Force Base near Anchorage. After that, he pushes on to Japan.

WASHINGTON (AP) President Barack Obama wants more war options as he considers the next step for the U.S. in Afghanistan. A senior official says Obama is refusing to accept all the proposals presented by his national security team. Obama is expected to announce a revamped U.S. strategy shortly after he returns from his trip to Asia.

WASHINGTON (AP) A military official says doctors supervising the accused Fort Hood shooter's medical training had been concerned about his strange behavior and his overly zealous religious views.

But they saw no evidence he was violent or a threat. The Army major now stands accused of a shooting rampage that left 13 dead and 29 wounded a week ago today.

WASHINGTON (AP) The Obama administration is taking its first step toward trying to fix the ailing airline industry.

Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood is holding a forum today to discuss ways government can help. The industry has been rocked by repeated crises in recent years, including the 9/11 terror attacks, the SARS virus and the current economic downturn.

NEW YORK (AP) A 76-foot Norway spruce is getting ready for its close-up, just blocks from Broadway. The 10-ton tree is being hoisted into place today in Manhattan's Rockefeller Center. A Rockefeller official says the Connecticut tree was discovered like all the center's trees after a series of aerial searches.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 11-12-09 0642CST | save this article / add to your favorites list