April 26, 2001

Bank of Scotland and Halifax Group say they hold merger talks (M)

Seattle Mariners defeat New York Yankees, 7-5; photo (M)

Acting Gov Donald T DiFrancesco abruptly quits New Jersey governor's race, citing weeks of what he calls devastating media coverage of his past business and legal dealings; former Rep Bob Franks will take his place on Republican ballots in June 26 primary; DiFrancesco, who only three days ago formally announced his candidacy, has been positioning himself for gubernatorial run since 1992; his withdrawal is latest and biggest surprise in political year full of twists and turns, intrigue and scandal in New Jersey; his decision to withdraw is reportedly triggered by cumulative toll of criticism he has received in recent weeks, and at urging of his family; photos (M)

Article describes scene at Manhattan Municipal Building as couples, faced with April 30 deadline for illegal immigrants seeking green cards, wait to be married in city clerk's office; photo (M)

Mafia turncoat who secretly recorded thousands of hours of gangland conversations helps authorities file charges against 45 men accused of committing both savage and small-time mob crimes, including murder, stock fraud and shakedowns; 300 federal agents and police officers sweep through New York, New Jersey and Miami to make arrests; three-year investigation is one of longest and most extensive undercover mob inquiries in decade; its main target is secretive Genovese family, largest Mafia group in New York City; 32 of those arrested are accused of being connected to Genovese family, but others arrested include two retired police officers, certified public accountant, lawyer and Hasidic man accused of joining in labor bribery scheme; court filings include little information about informer, only that he was well-placed Genovese associate; photos (M)