Originally trained as a modern dancer, Ms. Polite wrote two novels, which were known for their lush, poetic language and extensive use of monologues.

Where cult films go, academics follow. A new book collects essays on “The Big Lebowski” and its beatific slacker, the Dude.

From the debut of Iron Chef to the closing of Gourmet, check out these 25 moments that changed food in the aughts.

Simon Gagne scored three goals and added an assist, and the surging Philadelphia Flyers stretched their winning streak to four games by handing the Rangers their worst loss of the season.

Max Komar made a sliding 16-yard touchdown catch with four seconds left and Nathan Enderle passed to Preston Davis for the 2-point conversion, lifting Idaho to a dramatic victory over Bowling Green.

Texas Tech Coach Mike Leach, who had come under fire the past few days for his treatment of a player, was fired on Wednesday.

Texas Tech Coach Mike Leach, who had come under fire the past few days for his treatment of a player, was fired on Wednesday.

Texas Tech Coach Mike Leach, who had come under fire the past few days for his treatment of a player, was fired on Wednesday.

Beneath an easy grin lies a ruthless pragmatist as Mike D’Antoni drags the Knicks toward respectability with little regard for anyone’s feelings.