 The defense has rested its case in the bribery trial of Senator Bob Menendez. The New Jersey Democrat has pleaded not guilty to accepting hundreds of thousands of dollars in gold and cash to help three businessmen. His wife, Nadine Menendez, and three associates are facing similar charges and still await trial. The state of Louisiana is appealing a federal court order to protect the health and safety of inmates forced to work in excessive heat. U.S. District Judge Brian Jackson gave the state one week