Dorothy Abernathy, The Associated Press bureau chief for West Virginia and Virginia, shares the 10 things you need to know Tuesday, March 17, 2015. Look for full stories on these late-breaking news items, upcoming events and stories in West Virginia newspapers.
1. ISRAELIS VOTING FOR PARLIAMENT
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is seeking a fourth term in office, but it will likely take weeks of coalition talks to determine whether he stays in power or is unseated by Isaac Herzog of the centrist Zionist Union.
2. TROUBLED MILLIONAIRE TO FACE TRIAL IN MURDER CASE
Robert Durst, a member of one of America’s richest families, agrees to be extradited to Los Angeles in connection with the fatal shooting of a woman 15 years ago.
3. IRAN DEAL MAY HAVE BROADER IMPLICATIONS
A nuclear accord could potentially signal the beginning of the Islamic Republic’s broad acceptance by the community of nations.
4. WHOSE TAX BREAKS REWARD POLITICAL INSIDERS
The aid authorized by Republican Gov. Chris Christie often has gone to corporations with notable political connections, an AP review finds.
5. ATTORNEY FOR FERGUSON SUSPECT SAYS OFFICERS SHOT ‘ACCIDENTALLY’
He also suggests St. Louis County police may have used excessive force when arresting Jeffrey Williams, saying his client had bruises on his back, shoulders and face.
6. WHO CLAIMS UPPER HAND IN BUDGET FIGHT
Bolstered by a spate of upbeat economic news, Obama is aiming to exploit recent Republican stumbles to give Democrats an advantage — despite their status as a weakened minority.
7. RELIEF TEAMS REACH VANUATU’S CYCLONE-HIT OUTER ISLANDS
“The reconnaissance imagery shows widespread devastation. Not only buildings flattened — palm plantations, trees,” says Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop.
8. PRINCE HARRY TO LEAVE ARMY IN JUNE
His final military duties will include a four-week assignment in April and May with the Australian Defence Force.
9. WHERE CUISINE RISES BY GOING BACK TO ITS ROOTS
Chile is famous around the world for its wine, but now several chefs in the capital Santiago are revolutionizing the national cuisine one bite at a time.
10. STARS JOIN ELTON JOHN’S CALL FOR DOLCE & GABBANA BOYCOTT
Courtney Love, Ricky Martin and talk-show host Andy Cohen are among those pledging to ditch the brand’s clothes after the fashion designers criticized same-sex parents.