For the first time in Irish electoral history, the combined popular vote Friday for Ireland's two political heavyweights—the Fianna Fail and Fine Gael parties—fell below 50 percent as voters infuriated by austerity measures shifted their support to a Babel of anti-government voices.

The Chiriaco River, where the students usually bathe, play and wash their clothes, turned black on Feb. 10.

The cease-fire aims to bring representatives of the Syrian government and the opposition back to the negotiating table in Geneva for talks on a political transition.

Archbishop Robert J. Carlson reiterated ongoing concerns with the values and policies of Girl Scouts USA.

After months of public debate and protests, the Italian Senate passed a controversial bill that grants legal recognition to nonmarried heterosexual and homosexual couples.

The assault at the Excel Industries lawnmower parts plant in the small town of Hesston ended when a police officer killed the gunman during a shootout.