For anyone who has ever been squeezed as tight as a vise into a seat or banged his head against a railing trying to see around a pillar at Mellon Arena, the Consol Energy Center might just qualify as the proverbial lap of luxury. (Today)

The weather may be nicer and the grapes juicier, but when it comes to paying sales tax, be glad you don't live in California. (Today)

Gov. Ed Rendell says a broadened sales tax, at a reduced rate, would be fairer for consumers and businesses alike, but computer services companies say the proposed changes to the tax code would disproportionately affect their industry, to the tune of $210 million a year. (Today)

Highmark Inc. is suing the Pennsylvania Department of Insurance, claiming the department is trying to challenge Highmark's right to operate under the Blue Cross-Blue Shield brand, and alleging that the department has "overreached its legal authority" to investigate the state's Blues-affiliated insurers. (Today)

A fight between two national unions that has stalled negotiations with several local employers was settled today with a ruling from the National Labor Relations Board. (Today)