WASHINGTON (AP) — Breathalyzer tests given to the two Northwest Airlines pilots who flew past their destination Wednesday are said to be negative. The pilots insist they were simply absorbed in a discussion, but experts are dubious. Both pilots are temporarily suspended while the investigation goes on.

VIENNA (AP) — The U.N.'s nuclear agency will apparently have to wait a while longer for Iran's response to a nuclear enrichment offer. Tehran says it needs until the middle of next week to study it. Under the deal, Iran would send most of its uranium outside the country to be enriched.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The State Department's point man on Afghanistan is optimistic about the run-off election two weeks from tomorrow. Richard Holbrooke says there will be only two candidates this time, which should make it easier to spot fraud. He adds that observers also have a better idea now what to look for.

DENVER (AP) — One of the parents involved in the Colorado balloon drama has told authorities it was a hoax aimed at getting more media attention. The admission by Mayumi Heene (HEE'-nee) appears in court records. But the lawyer for her husband says "allegations are cheap," and they're waiting to see any evidence.

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (AP) — Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas says he doesn't understand why some of his colleagues beat up on lawyers who are presenting oral arguments. Thomas says the Justices always know where they stand on a case after reading briefs beforehand, so he says he doesn't see the point.