‘Fast & Furious’ shatters box office records

In the first truly shocking box office result of the year, "Fast & Furious" sped away from expectations to gross a humongous $72.5 million, according to early estimates from Media by Numbers. That result is effectively double what most industry observers had predicted for the debut of the fourth feature in Vin Diesel’s car franchise, and it left in the dust a number of notable records: – Best April opening ever, beating “Anger Management’s” $42.2 million. – Best Universal Pictures opening ever (three-day), beating “The Lost World: Jurassic Park’s” $72.1 million

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Pentagon report: China’s military expanding its capabilities

China’s military is developing longer-range ballistic and anti-ship missiles that are "shifting the balance of power in the region" and could help Beijing secure resources or settle territorial disputes, a report released by the Pentagon said Wednesday. China also continues to build up short-range missiles and increase its “coercive capabilities” against Taiwan.

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Nationalist could be Israel’s next foreign minister

Israeli media are buzzing with reports that right-wing nationalist Avigdor Lieberman may become Israel’s next foreign minister. The appointment of Lieberman, a polarizing figure in Israeli politics, could complicate the stalled peace talks with the Palestinians. It could also further strain relations between Israel and moderate Arab countries

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Chimp attack victim remains in critical condition

A Connecticut woman who was mauled last month by a chimpanzee remains in critical condition at the Cleveland Clinic, and her potential for recovery remains unclear, the facility said Wednesday. Charla Nash, 55, lost her nose, upper and lower lips, eyelids and both her hands in the attack, as well as the “bony structures in her mid-face,” the Cleveland Clinic said in a written statement. “While these wounds have been stabilized, critical issues still remain related to a significant traumatic brain injury and injuries to her eyes that threaten her vision,” the facility said

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Debate: Who should replace Scolari?

The sudden exit of Luiz Felipe Scolari at Chelsea has left Ray Wilkins temporarily in charge, and the door is wide open for a new manager at the London club. But who should take Scolari’s place Early media reports have suggested former Chelsea manager Avram Grant is the subject of interest from the Blues, in a possible combination with current Russia manager Guus Hiddink. Who do you think should replace Scolari at Stamford Bridge And what do you think of his sacking Tell us in the Sound Off box below

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