Police in the Russian city of Astrakhan spent several hours in intense negotiations with a hostage taker who claimed to have a gun and a box full of explosives.

A suburban Toledo man is hoping two billboards he put up surreptitiously will help his wife land a new job.

"I'm a reporter with The Associated Press looking to speak with Britney Spears' fans about her new single and forthcoming record. Let's talk Britney!" Good work, pal. [Craigslist]