Dorothy Abernathy, The Associated Press bureau chief for West Virginia and Virginia, shares the 10 things you need to know today, Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2013. Look for full stories on these late-breaking news items, upcoming events and stories in West Virginia newspapers:
1. GRIDLOCKED GOVERNMENT GRINDS TO A HALT
The Senate and House reject each other’s budget plans, leading to the first government shutdown in 17 years.
2. DEFENSE, OTHER WORKERS FACE FURLOUGHS
U.S. troops will stay on duty despite the shutdown, but thousands of civilians who work for the Defense Department, along with other federal employees, may be sent home.
3. ROLLOUT OF OBAMACARE BEGINS
Online insurance marketplaces — where millions of Americans will be able to shop for the first time — are getting up and running.
4. WHO’S URGING US TO KEEP PRESSURE ON IRAN
Netanyahu implores Obama to maintain economic sanctions against Tehran — and stiffen the penalties if Iran advances its nuclear programs.
5. VEIL PULLED BACK ON VATICAN BANK
An annual financial report — made public for the first time as the Vatican aims for greater openness — shows the bank’s earnings rose four-fold in 2012 to more than $116 million.
6. WHERE INSULT FOLLOWED INJURY
Shop owners at the Westgate Mall returned after last week’s terror attack to find valuables stolen, with poorly paid Kenyan security forces the suspects.
7. NEW PROCEDURE HELPS INFERTILE WOMAN GIVE BIRTH
The experimental technique gives scientists hope they can help other women who have trouble getting pregnant.
8. HOW THE WORLD’S POPULATION IS AGING
By 2050, seniors over 60 will outnumber children under 15. And most countries are unprepared to support the growing elderly population, a study finds.
9. LESSONS FROM BEST-LOVED CHEMISTRY TEACHER ON TV
AP Television Writer Frazier Moore reviews the wisdom dispensed on “Breaking Bad” — especially for anyone who ever might need to dispose of a body.
10. TAMPA BAY ADVANCES TO AL PLAYOFFS
Evan Longoria rips a two-run homer and a double to help lead the Rays over Texas 5-2 in a wild-card tiebreaker game.