MARYLAND
Fire death under investigation
City fire officials said a veteran firefighter and another recruit were burned as they lifted a dying Rachel Wilson through the window of a burning rowhouse Friday during a training academy exercise. Their investigation continues into the death of Wilson, a 29-year-old mother of two. pg 1b
Teachers protest closings
Angry parents and teachers told city school board members to reconsider a plan that would close 10 under-enrolled city schools - mostly middle schools - in an effort to cut costs and persuade the state to fund new buildings where the need is greatest. pg 1b
NATIONAL
Video games that instruct
Tired of badgering the kids to quit wasting time with those computer and video games and get started on homework? Here's a news flash for the 21st century: It turns out many of the games might be better than homework. pg 14a
For veterans, a virtual Iraq
Using virtual reality equipment, psychologists are helping veterans of the Iraq war deal with post-traumatic stress disorder by enabling them to return safely to a "virtual Iraq," in which they can deal with their fears. pg 15a
WORLD
Putin attacks U.S. militarism
Russian President Vladimir V. Putin blamed U.S. policy yesterday for inciting other countries to seek nuclear weapons to defend themselves from an "almost uncontained use of military force." The Bush administration said it was "surprised and disappointed" by the remarks. pg 22a
U.S. command shifts in Iraq
The reins to the U.S. military effort in Iraq were handed over yesterday to Gen. David Petraeus. In contrast to his predecessor Gen. George Casey, who argued for an eventual drawdown of U.S. forces, Petraeus has said that securing Baghdad requires thousands more troops. pg 22a
BUSINESS
Collapse of an ad agency
When Eisner & Associates lost its biggest account two years ago as the advertising agency for US Airways, the unraveling of the Baltimore company began. It ended in November when Eisner Communications abruptly closed its doors, putting 50 people out of work. pg 1c
SPORTS
Meissner wins Four Continents
Reigning world and national figure skating champion Kimmie Meissner of Bel Air rallied from sixth place to win the Four Continents Figure Skating Championships in Colorado Springs, Colo. pg 1d
A&E; TODAY
Critic's picks for the Grammys
Tonight's Grammy Awards show struggles to hold onto a fragmented music audience that's drowning in disposable pop. From among the diverse contenders, Rashod Ollison picks his winners. pg 1e