10 Things to Know for Today

Monday, February 25, 2013

Your daily look at late-breaking news, upcoming events and the stories that will be talked about today:

1) 'ARGO,' 'LIFE OF PI' BIG OSCAR WINNERS

Ben Affleck's CIA thriller won best picture, while "Life of Pi" won four trophies, including best director for Ang Lee.

2) STATE-BY-STATE FALLOUT FROM BUDGET CUTS

The White House detailed the impact from $85 billion in cuts set to take effect at week's end.

3) A DATE FOR END OF CASTRO ERA

Raul Castro says he will step down as Cuba's president in 2018.

4) ASSIGNING BLAME FOR GULF OIL SPILL

A trial begins today to determine how much in damages oil giant BP and other companies should pay for the 2010 disaster.

5) A VOTE ON THE ECONOMY IN ITALY

Italians are deciding whether to renew support for Premier Mario Monti and his austerity agenda.

6) WHAT POPE BENEDICT SAID IN HIS FINAL SUNDAY BLESSING

The pontiff said God had called him to dedicate himself "even more to prayer and meditation," which he will do in a monastery.

7) ANOTHER STORM HEADED TO CENTRAL US

Blizzard warnings were in effect in Kansas after up to a foot and a half of snow fell there last week.

8) SETH MACFARLANE PRAISED AS IRREVERENT OSCAR HOST

"Macfarlane's strategic misbehavior furnished welcome relief," AP Television Writer Frazier Moore says.

9) TRIPS AND FALLS AT THE OSCARS

Best Actress winner Jennifer Lawrence stumbled on her way to the podium, and injured presenter Kristen Lawrence hobbled onstage.

10) POUR ON THE OLIVE OIL

A five-year study finds people who ate Mediterranean-style diets had a 30 percent lower risk of cardiovascular problems.