National and International News-Thursday, Feb. 1st

BAGHDAD, Iraq (AP) - At least six people are dead in a bombing on a minibus in Baghdad today. Eight others were wounded. The blast happened in a busy commercial area at noon. A suicide car bombing in the same district killed about 30 people less than a week ago.

CAPITOL HILL (AP) - The Senate Armed Services Committee today wrestles with President Bush's controversial choice of General George Casey to be the new Army chief of Staff. Casey led the Iraq
war for more than two years and is said to have opposed a buildup before supporting it.

CAPITOL HILL (AP) - A Senate vote is expected today on a proposal to boost the federal minimum wage to seven dollars, 25 cents an hour. It would be the first increase in ten years. Negotiators are trying to work out differences with the House, whose version does not include billions of dollars in tax breaks for businesses.

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) - Known for her wit and her willingness to skewer the politically powerful, author and columnist Molly Ivins has died. One of the Texas liberal's favorite targets was George W. Bush, whom she called "Shrub." In a statement of condolence, the president praises her "passionate belief in the power of words."

PARIS (AP) - No more puffing in Paris. France today instituted a ban on smoking in public that covers places like, offices, schools, airports and hospitals. The new French law includes fines of 88 dollars for smokers and 174 dollars for employers who look the other way.