IOC strengthens rules against doping

The governing body of the Beijing Olympics has stiffened laws against doping cheats for the upcoming Games, according to an International Olympic Committee (IOC) announcement yesterday in the Chinese capital.

Rangers continue dominance of Devils

NEW YORK: The New York Rangers scored three third-period goals to start the NHL playoffs with a 4-1 win over the New Jersey Devils in Newark on Wednesday.

IN BRIEF (Page 24)

Sports

Liverpool, Chelsea to clash again in semis

BELGRADE, Serbia: Liverpool and Chelsea will meet in the Champions League semifinals for the third time in four years after quarterfinal wins on Tuesday.

Jazz plays sweet tune as Hornets sing the blues

NEW ORLEANS, Louisiana: Turkish center Mehmet Okur scored 22 points and grabbed 17 rebounds to lead the Utah Jazz over New Orleans 77-66 in a Tuesday matchup of National Basketball Association contenders.

Sharapova makes triumphant return

AMELIA ISLAND, Florida: Top seed Maria Sharapova, returning from a two-week fatigue break, beat Czech qualifier Barbora Zahlavova Strycova on Tuesday at the $600,000 WTA Bausch and Lomb Championship.

IN BRIEF (Page 24)

Special Supplement

Preparation quickens in Qingdao

The opportunity to host an Olympic competition might come once in a generation - at most - and the citizens of Qingdao know that as they prepare for this summer's gala.

City creates recipe to ensure food quality

A comprehensive system to ensure food safety for the Olympics officially began operation in Qingdao on April 1, another part of the city's complex preparations for hosting the 2008 Olympic sailing competition.

Haiqing Hotel ready for Olympic effort

Haiqing Hotel says it is creating a home-like environment to make guests feel at ease during the Olympic Games.