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Concern is growing over the fate of civilians trapped by war on the island of Sri Lanka. U.N. officials say there's evidence that nearly 3,000 of them have been killed in just two months. The civilians are confined to a strip of land where government forces are trying to inflict an all-out military defeat against the Tamil Tiger separatists.

He had one of the most gorgeous voices ever to sing a love song. But during his lifetime, Johnny Hartman was known only to hardcore jazz lovers. It was after his death when he finally made it to the top of the jazz charts.

NPR's Jennifer Ludden in Jerusalem reports Israel's military sees no quick end to the latest Palestinian uprising in the West Bank and Gaza. With little chance for an early resumption of the peace process, Prime Minister Ehud Barak has ordered his aides to draw up plans for what he calls a "unilateral separation" from the Palestinians.

NPR's Jennifer Ludden in Jerusalem reports there was widespread violence in the West Bank and Gaza today, dimming hopes for the cease-fire announced earlier this week. Israeli troops fought gun battles with Palestinians in some areas. In others, the Israelis clashed with rock-throwing demonstrators. At least nine Palestinians were reported killed, and there were injuries on both sides.

(Update) Weeks of violence in the West Bank and Gaza Strip have sparked a resurgence by the Israeli right. Ariel Sharon, the right-wing leader whose visit to a contested holy site set off the current conflict, may even be invited to join the government. NPR's Linda Gradstein reports from Jerusalem.

Democrat Barack Obama is making a play for reliably Republican Virginia. Republican John McCain is looking to make gains in traditionally Democratic Pennsylvania. Colorado is also up for grabs in Tuesday's presidential race.

Rose Marie McCoy is one of the most prolific songwriters of '50s American pop music, yet her legacy remains relatively unknown. During her career, the artist published more than 800 songs, some of which were recorded by the likes of Elvis Presley, Dizzy Gillespie and James Brown.

Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat remains in critical condition at a hospital outside Paris, said to be in a coma. There have been few officials statements about the 75-year-old Arafat's health since he was sent to the military hospital for treatment eight days ago. Hear reporter Eleanor Beardsley.

NPR's Jennifer Ludden in Jerusalem reports Israeli helicopters rocketed Palestinian police and security offices across the Gaza Strip Monday, in retaliation for the roadside bombing of an Israeli bus that left two dead and several others wounded, including schoolchildren. The Palestinian Authority and Yasser Arafat's Fateh faction denied responsibility for the bombing, but a senior Israeli official said the "Palestinian military establishment" was linked to the attack.

In the small farming community of Nevada, Iowa, the results of caucuses to pick a presidential party nominee didn't match the rest of the state. The well-attended caucuses included many new participants. Democrat Barack Obama and Republican Mike Huckabee won the state's caucuses.

A Tragic Treasury, from the musical group the Gothic Archies, sets stories from the Lemony Snicket children's series to music.

As a child, Jane Hamill thought Barbie was the ultimate in cool. Now a fashion designer in Chicago, Hamill realizes her belief in a doll was a belief in her own skills, creativity and ability to succeed.