October 27, 2002

Signs noted that Saddam Hussein, like many despots before him, may be ready to make further concessions in his domestic and international policies for larger purpose of staying in power; catch for Iraqi dictator is that anything that looks like weakness in totalitarian system can very quickly invite challenge, as Soviet bloc leaders found when they scrambled to reform Communist system toward the end; photo of voter casting ballot for Hussein with Yes box marked in blood (M)

United States, Japan and South Korea issue joint statement, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, calling on North Korea to dismantle its clandestine nuclear weapons program 'in a prompt and verifiable manner' and warning Kim Jong Il, North Korea's leader, that his 'relations with the international community' hinge on his quick compliance with demand; Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation summit opens in Cabo San Lucas; photo of Pres Bush and Pres Vicente Fox of Mexico (M)

Anaheim Angels defeat San Francisco Giants, 6-5, in Game 6 of World Series to tie series, 3-3; rally from 5-0 deficit to win game; photos (M)

Profile of Rena Kirdar Sindi, wealthy Baghdad-born New York socialite who has written Be My Guest: Theme Party Savoir-Faire, colorful account of 14 parties she has given in past year; photos (M)

Editor's Note: standard time resumes at 2 am todayï