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Why do some cakes seem to go so well on the way into the oven, but come out as disastrous sinkholes? The Food Network's Alton Brown solves the mysteries of cake-baking in the second of our series of holiday baking tips. He talks with NPR's Jennifer Ludden.

The president plans to nominate one of his closest aides to serve as the next Secretary of State. Condoleezza Rice would replace Colin Powell, who announced his departure Monday. Rice's deputy, Stephen Hadley, would become the national security advisor. Hear NPR's Michele Kelemen.

Choreographer Paul Taylor is one of the giants of modern dance. Even as his Paul Taylor Dance Company is marking its 50th season with a tour to all 50 states, Taylor is at home, planning his next move. Hear NPR's Jennifer Ludden.

Five obscure female fiction novelists and the nonfiction 9/11 Commission Report are among the unconventional nominees for this year's National Book Awards. The panel is mum until they give the awards out on Nov. 17, but book critics and publishing industry watchers have their predictions. NPR's Lynn Neary reports.

A NASA research jet sets a new air-speed record for air-breathing engines by traveling nearly 7,000 mph, or 10 times the speed of sound. After its release from beneath the larger craft's wing, a booster rocket ignited, sending the X-43A on its way. NPR's David Kestenbaum reports.

Stephen Hadley worked largely behind the scenes during the first Bush term. Now Hadley will succeed Condoleezza Rice as National Security Adviser. Hadley acted as Rice's deputy for the past four years, and has served in Republican administrations going as far back as Richard Nixon. Hear NPR's Mike Shuster.

A major issue of this lame duck congressional session centers around a rule changes that allow House members to maintain leadership positions even if they are indicted by a state grand jury. Another issue in the spotlight is the continuing uproar over Pennsylvania Republican Arlen Specter's accession to the chairmanship of the Senate Judiciary Committee. Hear NPR's David Welna.

The Federal Communications Commission agrees to consider ending its ban on cell phone use during airline flights. But the Federal Aviation Administration still has to decide whether the idea is safe. NPR's Larry Abramson reports.

The White House seems to be standing firmly behind Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld, despite increasing complaints about his performance. This week, some prominent Republicans and retired generals went public with criticisms. NPR's Vicky O'Hara reports.

From Salvation Army kettles outside the supermarket to glossy pamphlets in the mailbox, this is the season when many charities have their hands out. Watchdog groups suggest donors do a little digging to make sure they get their charitable money's worth. NPR's Scott Horsley reports.