Dec 26th, 2008 · La Cenerentola is Rossini's uproarious, yet touching version of the familiar Cinderella story — minus the magic pumpkin and the glass slipper, but with an added dose of telling, human foibles. Vivica Genaux stars in a production from the Grand Theatre of Geneva.
Dec 22nd, 2008 · A group of 14 technology companies, including Johnson Controls and 3M, have banded together to seek funding for research, development and production of new automotive battery technology. The group is seeking $1- to $2 billion in federal funding for the venture.
Dec 22nd, 2008 · As consumers cut back their spending in the worsening economy, the effects are being felt even in the wastepaper recycling and exporting industry. Decreased demand for products means a drop in the need for packaging — and the recycled materials that it's made from.
Dec 19th, 2008 · In light of Detroit's request for money to help the ailing carmakers, satirists Bruce Kluger and David Slavin suggest a good ad campaign for a car that answers all the questions raised by Congress. The Detroit Desperado is energy efficient and the product of the Big Three in collaboration.
Dec 19th, 2008 · La Scala's season opening production of Don Carlo caused a true sensation when management abruptly replaced the lead tenor with his understudy, American Stuart Neill, and the company's highly vocal fans made their feelings known.
Dec 19th, 2008 · The Food and Drug Administration has approved the use of two new zero-calorie sweeteners made from the stevia plant. Coca-Cola and other companies plan to introduce drinks sweetened with stevia-based products.
Dec 18th, 2008 · Good olive oil is expensive to produce, so it's no surprise that some people are trying to pass off a low grade product. Now, they'll face the wrath of the state of Connecticut — the first state in the country to set standards for the purity of olive oil.
Dec 17th, 2008 · Chrysler says it will close all 30 of its manufacturing plants for a month starting Friday. The company needs to match production to slowing demand and conserve cash. Tighter credit markets are keeping would-be buyers away from their showrooms, Chrysler says.