Key Vote Sunday for Venezuela's Chavez
Venezuelans to hold referendum on presidential powers

Brazil's Lula Launches Massive Works Program in Rio Slums
Multimillion-dollar plan to improve roads, build sanitation systems, upgrade housing for residents in slums outside Rio de Janeiro

Brazil Earns Olympic Volleyball Berth
Brazil's men's volleyball team has earned a berth in the 2008 Olympics with a win over Russia at the men's World Cup in Japan.

French-Colombian Hostage's Letter Describes Conditions in Rebel Camp
Former presidential candidate Ingrid Betancourt says she is only woman among several men held by leftist rebels, and that she is not well

Chavez Accuses Colombia of Sabotage in Rebel Talks
Venezuelan President says Colombian president ordered him to stop his efforts to negotiate release of hostages held by leftist rebels

Venezuelans Vote in Constitutional Referendum
Recent public opinion polls show vote too close to predict; proposed changes would greatly increase President Hugo Chavez's power

Fidel Castro Nominated for Re-Election
Move paves way for ailing Cuban leader, 81, to remain as head of state

US Senator Rejects Chavez Allegations of Interference
Venezuela's president alleges that Washington is seeking to destabilize South American nation

Venezuelan Voters Reject Chavez's Constitutional Changes
51% vote against allowing president to run for re-election indefinitely

Venezuela Rejects Constitutional Changes
Opposition leaders see the vote as a major blow to the President Hugo Chavez's efforts to impose socialist changes