[naviga:h3]Coke seeks better relations with critics[/naviga:h3]

NEW YORK — Coke says it wants to mend relations with critics of its sugary drinks.

Sandy Douglas, president of Coke North America, said in an interview with The Associated Press that Coke is hoping to change its “adversarial” relationship with public health advocates.

The phone interview took place Nov. 17, after Coca-Cola learned the AP had obtained e-mails between the company and leaders of the Global Energy Balance Network, which was founded to fight obesity. In an AP report, e-mails show Coke was instrumental in shaping the group — helping pick its leaders, editing its mission statement and suggesting content for the group’s website

[naviga:h3]Data shows pay, spending up[/naviga:h3]

WASHINGTON — Americans’ pay is up, fewer people need unemployment aid, more are buying new homes and business spending is rebounding.

A flurry of data released Wednesday signaled that the fundamentals of the U.S. economy remain solid, if unspectacular, three weeks before the Federal Reserve will likely begin raising interest rates.

Consumers appear relatively confident in the economy and may be poised to spend their rising incomes during the holidays.

In addition, businesses are stepping up their investment in machinery and equipment.