Morning Buzz: Feb. 27, 2008

In the last face-to-face debate between the two Democratic candidates before the potentially deal-making March 4 primaries, Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama clashed in Cleveland over trade, healthcare, and the war in Iraq. In addition, they delved into claims of negative campaigning, bringing up the photograph circulating online of Obama wearing traditional garb when he visited northeastern Kenya. Some thought the Clinton campaign was responsible, but Clinton denied it. "I take Senator Clinton at her word that she knew nothing about the photo," Obama said.

Is Microsoft abusing its market dominance? The European Union thinks so. Today it fined the software giant a record $1.3 billion for overcharging rival developers who have sought to design Windows-compatible programs. The current fine follows hundreds of millions of dollars' worth of fines in 2004 and 2005 for similar problems.

Three hours and 135,000 trained baristas later, Starbucks is promising its customers the perfect beverage. Starbucks coffee branches across the United States were closed yesterday for several hours so that employees could get a refresher course in making a good cup of joe and espresso, too. The 7,100 company-operated Starbucks stores now have signs that tout: "Your drink should be perfect, every time. If not, let us know and we'll make it right."