Palin resigns as governor; leaves plans secret (AP)

AP - Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin abruptly announced Friday she is resigning from office at the end of the month, a shocking move that rattled the Republican party but left open the possibility she would seek a run for the White House in 2012.

Powerful sedative found in Michael Jackson's home (AP)

AP - The powerful sedative Diprivan was found in Michael Jackson's home, a law enforcement official said Friday as the city planned for a massive crowd at the singer's memorial service.

Serial killer has South Carolina residents on edge (AP)

AP - Terrified residents canceled Fourth of July plans and holed up in their homes Friday as investigators hunted a serial killer believed to have shot four people to death.

Jackson tickets via internet draw
Tickets for a memorial service for Michael Jackson in Los Angeles will be made available via the internet, organisers reveal.

Alaska Governor Palin to resign
Republican ex-vice-presidential hopeful Sarah Palin is to quit as Alaska governor amid speculation about a possible presidential bid.

Honduran court defiant on Zelaya
The Supreme Court of Honduras rejects a demand by the Organisation of American States to reinstate the ousted President, Manuel Zelaya.

Russia 'agrees US troop transit'
An Obama administration official says Russia has agreed to let US troops bound for Afghanistan fly through its airspace.