NATION

Big Time Punches In

As Dick Cheney works the levers of power, a look at the Veep's schedule shows why he's a major league asset to President Bush

Dial M for Misconduct

A judge's love affair, and her deceptions, has Michigan in an uproar. Should she be benched?

Terror on a Leash

A grisly dog attack leaves a city shaken, and mulling a hard question: Should the owners be prosecuted?

SOCIETY

The Copycat?

Did Columbine inspire a new plot--or a fantasy?

TECHNOLOGY

BRIEFING

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

BUSINESS

Your Bagel or Your Job

Layoffs are increasing rapidly, yet many companies would rather cut perks and salaries than employees

EDUCATION

Teacher In Chief (Special Report)

At once conservative and conciliatory, Rod Paige promises an activist Department of Education

Amending the Texts (Special Report)

New technology promises to make them more accurate, up-to-date, interactive--and lightweight

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Books: Seven New Voices (The Arts / Books)

Here come six promising first-time novelists offering moral fables and tales of unrequited love. As for the seventh, don't say we didn't warn you

YOUR TIME

A New Time Out (Personal Time / Your Family)

Parents who want to discipline their misbehaving kids should apply the hiatus to themselves

Valentines Online (Personal Time / Your Technology)

I love flowers. So why was every bouquet I rush-ordered on the Web such a disappointment?

Sticks And Stones (Personal Time / Your Health)

Osteoporosis can break your bones, even if you are a man. This disease is not for women only

SPECIAL SECTION

Crimes Against Humanity (Special Report)

Even as you read this, AIDS is taking lives in sub-Saharan Africa, swallowing families, communities, hopes. So far 17 million have died. At least 25 million may follow. An intimate look at a modern cu

Death Stalks A Continent (Special Report)

In the dry timber of African societies, AIDS was a spark. The conflagration it set off continues to kill millions. Here's why

PEOPLE

LETTERS