Dorothy Abernathy, The Associated Press bureau chief for West Virginia and Virginia, shares the 10 things you need to know Monday, Jan. 6, 2014. Look for full stories on these late-breaking news items, upcoming events and stories in West Virginia newspapers:
1. WHERE `POLAR VORTEX’ IS TAKING AIM
The whirlpool of frigid, dense air is ushering in snow and bitter cold across the Midwest and into the Northeast. Temperatures in Fargo, N.D., will drop to 32 below.
2. WHAT CONGRESS HAS ON AGENDA
Senate votes are expected for Obama’s nomination on Janet Yellen to head the Federal Reserve and a three-month extension of benefits for the long-term unemployed.
3. LIZ CHENEY EXPECTED TO DROP SENATE BID
Published reports say the daughter of the former vice president plans to quit the Republican Wyoming Senate primary, citing family reasons.
4. FAMILY MOVES BRAIN DEAD GIRL FROM HOSPITAL
Jahi McMath, 13, declared brain dead after a tonsillectomy, was taken by her family from a California hospital to be cared for elsewhere.
5. WHAT N.J. OFFICIALS ARE DOING TO CURB SEX TRAFFICKING
The focus is on training law enforcement personnel, hospitality workers and others statewide to recognize the signs of trafficking during Super Bowl week.
6. WHAT IRAQ’S PRIME MINISTER IS URGING
Nouri al-Maliki’s is asking residents and tribes of Fallujah to “expel” al-Qaida militants from this western city to avoid an all-out battle.
7. UNLIKELY DEMOGRAPHIC HELPING SENIORS
AP’s Matt Sedensky reports that burgeoning demand for senior services such as home health aides is being met by a surprising segment of the workforce: other seniors.
8. `CLICK FARMS’ BECOME BIG BUSINESS
For as little as a half cent each click, websites hawk everything from LinkedIn connections that make members appear more employable to Soundcloud plays that may influence record label interest.
9. WAVE OF WEARABLE GIZMOS AT CES
Gadget lovers can expect technology companies to roll out more devices that you snap, buckle or fasten to your body this week in Las Vegas at the International Consumer Electronics Show.
10. LOWER SEEDS WIN NFL WILD-CARD GAMES
The Chargers, Saints and 49ers all claim road victories on wild-card weekend. The Colts win at home in a stunning comeback.