Swine Flu deaths...Balloon probe...Contractor's plea

Washington (AP) Another 11 children have reportedly died from swine flu in the past week. The disease is hitting kids hard, with 86 child deaths reported since spring. Meanwhile, production of swine flu vaccine is falling at least 10 million doses below expectations.

FORT COLLINS, Colo. (AP) A Colorado sheriff probing yesterday's balloon misadventure involving a 6-year-old boy says there's no evidence of a hoax despite what critics are saying.

Still, investigators will meet with the family again tomorrow to ask more questions.

COLLEGE STATION, Texas (AP) President Barack Obama has gone to a community service forum in College Station, Texas, hosted by one of his predecessors, George Bush the elder. Obama called public service "the essence of our liberty," adding that there's only so much government can do.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) Despite criticism that it's racist, a Kansas legislator has reposted a video on YouTube called "RedNeck Rap." It's a criticism of President Barack Obama that shows Bill Otto wearing a hat describing opossum as "the other dark meat." He insists it's not racist.

HOUSTON (AP) A former civilian defense contractor in Iraq could be headed for two years in prison after pleading guilty to abusive sexual contact with a woman at a base. The incident happened at Camp Al Asad a year ago. Sentencing is set for Jan. 15.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 10-16-09 1843CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list