Dorothy Abernathy, The Associated Press bureau chief for West Virginia and Virginia, shares the 10 things you need to know Thursday, Nov. 14, 2013. Look for full stories on these late-breaking news items, upcoming events and stories in West Virginia newspapers:
1. HEALTH CARE SIGNUPS FALL WOEFULLY SHORT
Fewer than 27,000 people enrolled for health insurance during the “Obamacare” website’s first month of operation, the administration reveals.
2. 20-FOOT WALL OF WATER SURPRISED FILIPINOS
While the Philippines are often beset by high winds, floods and mudslides, the massive storm surge that followed Typhoon Haiyan was unusual.
3. U.S. FINANCES LOOKING ROSIER
Reflecting lower spending and higher revenues, the federal deficit shrank 24 percent last month, the Treasury Department says.
4. IN OBESITY FIGHT, DOCTORS URGED TO GET TOUGH
The U.S. medical profession is telling physicians to be a lot more aggressive about helping patients drop those extra pounds.
5. WHAT HEALTH OFFICIALS FEAR IN THE MIDDLE EAST
An outbreak of polio in Syria is threatening to spread as tens of thousands flee the conflict.
6. TORONTO MAYOR STILL REFUSING TO STEP DOWN
He admits buying illegal drugs while in office, but insists that he remains “a positive role model for kids.”
7. WHY A CONDEMNED CHILD KILLER’S EXECUTION WAS DELAYED
Ohio Gov. John Kasich is weighing Ronald Phillips’ request to be an organ donor.
8. MEET THE PARENTS, FROM 3.5 BILLION YEARS AGO
What may be the oldest complete fossil is found in Australia. Researchers say the slimy mat of microbes is likely a forerunner of human life.
9. WHO’S ELIGIBLE FOR A BRITISH PENSION
At 65, Prince Charles is still waiting to succeed his mother to the throne. But the longest-waiting heir in the kingdom’s history is now eligible for government benefits.
10. TEACHING YOUR DOG TO SIT, STAY – AND SORT LAUNDRY
Veteran dog trainer to the stars Babette Haggerty shows you how in her book, “The Best Dog Tricks on the Planet.”
