10 things to know for Friday

By The Associated Press

What’s everyone talking about today? Here’s a quick breakdown to keep you in the loop:

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

1. Scores injured in London theater collapse

The ceiling of the city’s Apollo Theatre gives way, showering a packed audience with plaster, wood and dirt. At least seven people are seriously hurt.

2. Who’s struggling with a cybersecurity nightmare

Target says data connected to about 40 million credit and debit card accounts was stolen as part of a breach.

3. Humanitarian gestures from Vladimir Putin as Olympics near

He says he’ll pardon jailed tycoon Mikhail Khodorkovsky, and give amnesty to the Pussy Riot punk band and to Greenpeace activists.

4. Why a U.S. General was demoted

Maj. Gen. Michael Carey drank heavily and associated with “suspect” women during a trip to Russia, investigators say. His command once included 450 ballistic missiles in the U.S.

5. Syrian radicals pose growing disaster

Islamic militants, now the most powerful force in the rebellion, are increasingly targeting those seen as opposed to their extreme views.

6. Where fake cigarettes face a real ban

In NYC, electronic smokes would be banned in locations like restaurants, bars and city parks – just like their leaf-and-paper cousins – under a measure the mayor is expected to sign.

7. Florida congressman vows to hold onto his seat

After pleading guilty to cocaine possession, Republican Rep. Trey Radel says he wants to “rebuild the trust” of voters.

8. In diverse U.S., Father Christmas comes in many colors

Black, Latino and Native American Santa Clauses have been making the rounds – though not all reactions to non-white Santas this season have been jolly.

9. “Duck Dynasty” fans want Phil Robertson back

Thousands of viewers – and some politicians – are saying the patriarch’s suspension is a violation of free speech.

10. Figure-skating champ comes out ahead of Sochi trip

Brian Boitano announces he’s gay as he joins the U.S. delegation to the Winter Olympics.

(Copyright 2013 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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