MONEY-china-hsbc-flash-pmi

China's manufacturing industry showed further signs of improvement in November, according to a key early indicator. HSBC said its initial Chinese purchasing managers' index, or PMI, rose to a 13-month high of 50.4 in November from 49.5 last month. The reading ticked above the benchmark of 50, meaning that manufacturing is now in a state of accelerated expansion. The bank's final reading for the month will be released Dec. 1.

FEATURES & COMMENTARY

ENT-Anthony-Hopkins-Hitchcock

Even when you're a legend yourself, the thought of playing one for the screen is still frightening. Such was the case for Anthony Hopkins, who transforms into Alfred Hitchcock for this month's "Hitchcock," which is based on the book "Alfred Hitchcock and the making of 'Psycho'" and directed by Sacha Gervasi.

ENT-Gerard-Butler-Flirting

We're not surprised to hear that Gerard Butler, with his legion of admiring fans, learned how to flirt at a young age. It all happened when the Scottish actor was "third year" in school - which would be about 14 years old, he told CNN.

ENT-Fiona-Apple-Sick-Dog

We warned you to steel yourself before reading Fiona Apple's explanation for postponing her South American tour, because the singer/songwriter has written a letter that could touch even the cynical. On her Facebook page, Apple said she couldn't set out on a string of dates - which were reportedly set to start in Brazil next week - because her 14-year-old Pit Bull Janet is dying.

FEA-fiona-apple-dog-death

Fiona Apple's recent decision to postpone her South American tour to stay home with her elderly and ailing dog may have caused some upset among her fans, but she's won a whole pack of new ones who thoroughly support and understand that decision all too well. I am one of them.

FEA-thanksgiving-by-the-numbers

Thanksgiving by the numbers

COMMENTARY-sachs-israel-gaza

Israel, engage Abbas now

COMMENTARY-Barlett-Thanksgiving-Heritage-Food

Bring heritage breeds to the holiday table, because a sustainable food system needs diversity and preservation of old varieties.