clearing the way for liftoff nearly seven months after the rocket suffered multiple failures and blew itself up during its maiden flight in April.

Escalation into a full-blown conflict would leave South Koreas capital.Washington now views the threat as one against the U.

would be prepared to shoot down a North Korean missile.That has raised the question of whether the U.ambiguous warnings about his willingness to take unilateral actions - a threat that assumed new resonance after he ordered a missile strike against Syria last week over its alleged use of chemical weapons.

The order was issued during Xis visit.But the Vinsons presence near North Korea points to the larger challenge for the U.

The emphasis has been on pressing China to use its economic leverage to rein in its wayward ally.

decided not to come to Washington for congressional hearings this month.Travel Deal TuesdayIn addition to traveling on Tuesday.

Americans are catching a break on the cost of flying for the busy holiday travel season.The best time to get deals on airfare is typically six to eight weeks ahead of the travel date.

You can catch some excellent fares because the airlines are flying anyway.you can arrive and have dinner later in the afternoon or evening.