Don't talk to aliens, warns Stephen Hawking  —  THE aliens are out there and Earth had better watch out, at least according to Stephen Hawking.  He has suggested that extraterrestrials are almost certain to exist — but that instead of seeking them out, humanity should be doing all it that can to avoid any contact.

Parties Edge Closer on Financial Regulation Bill  —  A top Republican on the Senate banking panel said Sunday that a deal with Democrats appeared closer on a bill that would tighten regulation of the nation's financial system.  But he also said his party was prepared to block debate until the key planks of the legislation are in place.

Obama's Quincy, Ill., appearance open  —  With his “White House to Main Street Tour” this week — at a time when the debate over Wall Street reform is heating up in Washington — President Barack Obama will hold an open house for all-comers Wednesday at the civic center in Quincy, Ill.