Gender-neutral licenses in CA...Damage control in IA...Spears

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) A California court ruling overturning bans on gay marriage goes into effect at 5 p.m. local time. Some clerks' offices will stay open late to issue the new gender-neutral licenses, and many couples will be married on the spot. Meanwhile, a conservative legal group has filed a petition with an appeals court in an effort to stop the weddings.

OAKVILLE, Iowa (AP) Flood damage appears limited in the college town of Iowa City, though about 400 homes have taken on water. Iowa officials, meanwhile, are warning people about farm chemicals, animal waste and other hazards in the floodwaters. One official said, "If you drink this water and live, tell me about it."


KANDAHAR, Afghanistan (AP) Officials say hundreds of Taliban fighters have taken over villages in southern Afghanistan. The push comes three days after a sophisticated attack on Kandahar's prison that freed hundreds of militants. NATO and Afghan forces are redeploying to meet the new threat.

LOS ANGELES (AP) A Missouri woman has pleaded not guilty to charges stemming from a MySpace hoax that may have led to young girl's suicide. The woman is accused of creating a MySpace account that was used to send cruel messages to a 13-year-old girl. The teen had a history of depression, and later killed herself.

LOS ANGELES (AP) A photographer accusing Britney Spears of running over his foot with her car has only himself to blame.

That's according to Los Angeles prosecutors, who are refusing to pursue the case. They say video shows he put his foot in the way on purpose.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 06-16-08 1750CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list