Dorothy Abernathy, regional media director of The Associated Press, shares 10 things you need to know Tuesday, Feb. 16, 2016. Look for full stories on these late-breaking news items and much more in West Virginia newspapers.
1. SENATE REPUBLICANS SUPPORT MCCONNELL ON SUPREME COURT OPENING
Democrats looking to reclaim the Senate majority immediately accuse them of putting politics ahead of their constitutional responsibility.
2. RUSSIA DENIES ITS WARPLANES HIT SYRIA HOSPITAL
The Russian president’s spokesman says that this is another case of those who make such accusations against Moscow being unable to back up their claims.
3. WHO SIGNALS TOUGH STANCE ON NORTH KOREA
By warning of Pyongyang’s “regime collapse,” and extraordinarily calling Kim Jong Un out by name, the South Korean president raises the stakes in a standoff that began with last month’s nuclear test by its rival.
4. HOW OBAMA PLANS TO WRAP SUMMIT WITH SOUTHEAST ASIAN LEADERS
The last day of the event will be dedicated to discussions on counterterrorism and China’s territorial claims to disputed waters of the South China Sea.
5. POPE TURNS EYE TO MEXICO’S DRUG HEARTLAND
Francis’ is headed to Morelia, the capital of Michoacan state, where he will meet with young people, whom he is holding up as the hope for a better future for the country.
6. UPSURGE IN PARALYSIS CONDITION ACCOMPANIES ZIKA
Guillain-Barre cases believed to be linked to the virus have killed three people in recent weeks in Colombia and another three in Venezuela.
7. WHY SOLITARY SHOULD BE RETHOUGHT
As everyone from Obama to state lawmakers is questioning the use of isolation in jails, The AP examines one woman’s story that’s a case study in this type of punishment and its consequences.
8. CRUZ MAKES HIS SUPREME COURT KNOWLEDGE A CAMP
It becomes the new focal point of his White House bid following the weekend death of Justice Antonin Scalia.
9. DANGER SIGNS FLASHING FOR GLOBAL ECONOMY
Eight years after a worldwide financial meltdown, investors are realizing that a return to pre-crisis normal remains far off.
10. GRAMMYS FEATURED NEARLY AS MANY TRIBUTES AS NEW MUSIC
The ceremony included performances honoring David Bowie, Glenn Frey, B.B. King, Maurice White of Earth and Wind & Fire. All died within the past year.