10 Things to Know for Today

Wednesday, March 13, 2013

photo Cardinals enter the Sistine Chapel at the Vatican on Tuesday to start the conclave to elect the 266th Roman Catholic pope.

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

1) BEIJING VS. THE VATICAN

A thorny challenge for the new pope will be the repressive treatment of Catholics in China.

2) PYONGYANG GETS PERSONAL

In latest diatribe, the North dismisses South Korea's new president with a sexist comment about the "venomous swish" of her skirt.

3) BEHIND THE NUMBERS

The AP's Calvin Woodward shoots down the oft-repeated claim that 40 percent of gun sales take place without background checks.

4) WHAT IT'S LIKE TO BE GROWING UP IN SYRIA

Some 2 million children are facing malnutrition, disease, early marriage and severe mental trauma as a result of the civil war.

5) BATTLE BREWING OVER WELFARE-TO-WORK

House Republicans say Obama is trying to gut the 1999 welfare reform law of work requirements - a claim that the administration disputes.

6) WHY OHIO CRASH PROVED FATAL FOR SIX TEENS

The SUV was crowded with more people than it was built for. The driver was unlicensed - and speeding. And no one was wearing a seat belt.

7) PATIENTS MAY LOSE THEIR PATIENCE

The daunting application for benefits under Obama's health care overhaul may leave you asking, "What is this, 20 questions?" Answer: At least.

8) A NEW SEASON FOR DYNASTY

George P. Bush seeks a little-known but powerful post to continue his family's political legacy: Texas land commissioner.

9) HOW THE YOUNGER GENERATION IS SURFING THE WEB

For more and more teens, the device of choice is the smartphone.

10) FEELING THE HEAT

Miami downs the Atlanta Hawks, 98-81, for its 19th straight win, the fifth-longest streak in NBA history.