Casey: diversity a strength...health care vote...Hurricane Ida

Washington (AP) The Army chief of staff says diversity gives the military strength and it's important for the country not to get caught up in speculation about the Muslim faith of the alleged Fort Hood gunman. Gen. George Casey says focusing Maj. Nidal Malik Hasan's (nih-DAHL' mah-LEEK' hah-SAHNZ') Islamic roots could "heighten the backlash" against all Muslims in the military.

WASHINGTON (AP) Late last night, the House narrowly passed health care reform legislation. The 220-215 vote included 39 Democrats voting against and one Republican, Louisiana's Rep.

Joseph Cao (gow), voting in favor. The focus now shifts to the Senate. Majority Leader Harry Reid says the House action has "energized" his chamber.

PESHAWAR, Pakistan (AP) Northwestern Pakistan has been hit by another suicide bombing. The attacker detonated his explosives in a crowded market, killing 12 people. The dead include an anti-Taliban mayor who had formed a militia to fight the militants. A purported Taliban commander is claiming responsibility.

DOHA, Qatar (AP) Decisions on which Guantanamo Bay detainees could face trial in American courts or special military tribunals could come as soon as next week. Attorney General Eric Holder says reviews of the cases are under way. Holder tells reporters in Qatar's (GUH'-turz) capital Doha that the Obama administration is working to meet its deadline to close the Guantanamo detention facility by January.

CANCUN, Mexico (AP) Ida has grown into a hurricane for a second time, with winds of 90 mph. It's over the Caribbean, on a path that could take it between Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula and Cuba before heading for the U.S. Gulf coast. Forecasters say predicting its track is tricky, but Gulf Coast residents can expect lots of wind and heavy rain.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 11-08-09 0847CST | save this article / add to your favorites list