WORLD
Troops seek kidnapped Iraqis
Iraqi forces backed by U.S. helicopters swept through a Shiite slum in the capital yesterday, searching for Iraqis seized in kidnappings that have shaken confidence in Iraq's government and security forces. Search efforts were also under way in southern Iraq for four Americans and an Austrian seized Thursday. pg 20a
Deputy calls for assassinations
Avigdor Lieberman, Israel's deputy prime minister, said yesterday that Israel should assassinate Hamas leaders, ignore the moderate Palestinian president and walk away from international peace efforts, the latest in a string of hard-line positions voiced by the newest member of the Cabinet. pg 21a
MARYLAND
Opposition to slots persists
Powerful economic and political interests have rekindled their campaign for Maryland to join its neighboring states in legalizing slots. But an analysis of election results shows that the incoming General Assembly is no more likely to adopt a slots plan than its predecessor. pg 1a
A race in Mfume's shadow
He has no campaign organization, little money and - given circumstances largely outside his control - no job, but many political experts believe that Kweisi Mfume is holding all the cards in Baltimore's mayoral race and that the mere possibility of his candidacy is making waves. pg 1b
NATIONAL
Democrats target tax breaks
House Democrats are targeting billions of dollars in oil company tax breaks for quick repeal next year. A broader energy proposal that would boost alternative energy sources and conservation is expected to be put off until later. pg 3a
HMOs losing ground
Health maintenance organizations, known for their low-cost medical care, were all the rage 10 years ago. Now consumers are bailing out of HMOs in record numbers as their costs have risen faster than high-deductible plans that offer more choices. pg 5a
BUSINESS
Southwest an upstart no more
To lure customers, Southwest Airlines is considering changing practices that have made the discounter unique, such as open seating. But Southwest wants to appeal to more people without losing the die-hard supporters who have helped it rise from underdog to industry trendsetter. pg 1c
SPORTS
UM falls to Boston College
Boston College returned three Maryland turnovers - two fumbles and an interception - for touchdowns en route to a 38-16 victory that ended the Terps' five-game winning streak. PG 1d
A&E; TODAY
Director stirs up Peabody
During the Peabody Conservatory's 150th-anniversary year, new director Jeff Sharkey plans to provide free admission to nearly all Peabody performances. He also has something up his sleeve with the BSO's Marin Alsop. pg 1e
TRAVEL
Housewarming for Washington
What's officially called George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens unveiled a major change of mission last month. Multimedia, storyboards and artifacts are all intended to liberate Washington from his frozen-figure status. pg 1r