Consumer prices in October registered their largest decline in 61 years, signalling that inflation is among the least of the problems facing a U.S. economy wracked by credit concerns, mounting unemployment and consumers who are holding on to their cash. (Today)

In West Virginia, which has the nation's highest rate of tobacco use, officials are spitting mad about R.J. Reynolds test-marketing a new smokeless product in two college towns. (Today)

An important state Senate committee is expected to give a thumbs-down to the prospective merger between Pittsburgh's Highmark Inc. and Philadelphia's Independence Blue Cross. (Today)

Fitch Ratings has assigned a rating of AA- on UPMC's Series 2008C revenue bonds of up to $350 million. (Today)

Nearly 1.2 million unemployed Americans will receive their final unemployment checks in December unless Congress acts to extend benefits. (Today)