Dorothy Abernathy, The Associated Press bureau chief for West Virginia and Virginia, shares the 10 things you need to know Friday, Jan. 10, 2014. Look for full stories on these late-breaking news items, upcoming events and stories in West Virginia newspapers:
1. EXPERTS PREDICT CHRISTIE WILL REGAIN HIS FOOTING
Political analysts say the New Jersey governor can probably survive the traffic jam scandal – provided there are no more surprises.
2. WHAT WALL STREET IS BANKING ON
Unemployment is expected to remain at a five-year low of 7 percent when the government releases its latest jobs report.
3. CHEMICAL SPILL FOULS WATER IN WEST VIRGINIA
Tens of thousands of people in nine counties surrounding Charleston are advised not to use their tap water after a foaming agent leaks into the Elk River.
4. INDIAN ENVOY LEAVES THE US
The diplomat, charged with lying about her housekeeper’s pay, is ordered out of the country after India refuses to waive her immunity.
5. SYRIAN REBEL GROUP CLOSE TO COLLAPSE AS TALKS NEAR
The Western-backed coalition is dogged by infighting, particularly about whether to talk to Assad’s government at the upcoming meeting in Switzerland.
6. HOW OBAMA ADMINISTRATION IS AIDING IRAQIS
The U.S. won’t send troops, but has been delivering missiles to bolster government forces aiming to retake two key cities from al-Qaida.
7. DEEP FREEZE COSTLY TO THE US
The price tag from school closures, airline disruptions, lost productivity and repairs could reach $5 billion.
8. MAN SURVIVES BEING STUCK UNDER TRUCK FOR HOURS IN SUBZERO TEMPS IN INDIANA
He had crawled under his truck to loosen ice from his brakes. But it suddenly settled deeper into the snow, pinning him beneath an axle.
9. AMIRI BARAKA, MILITANT MAN OF LETTERS, DIES AT 79
The controversial U.S. poet and playwright was both revered and reviled for works that called for revolution.
10. WHY IT’S BEST TO WAIT TO BUY SUPER BOWL TICKETS
Prices are expected to drop the closer it gets to the game.