National News

Most helicopters unprotected as bird strikes rise, FAA warns

WASHINGTON (AP) - Government researchers warned 10 years ago that changes were needed in helicopter designs to prevent birds from crashing through windshields and disabling pilots. Today, dangerous bird strikes are on the rise, but there are still no safety standards to protect 90 percent of the nation's helicopters. According to the Federal Aviation Administration,…
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Activists predict abortion will be a hot issue in campaigns

NEW YORK (AP) - The divide between Republicans and Democrats over abortion is deeper than ever. Activists on both sides foresee a 2016 presidential campaign in which the nominees tackle the volatile topic more aggressively than in past elections. Friction over the issue also is likely to surface in key Senate races. The opposing camps…
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Family: Charges unlikely in killing of Tamir Rice by police

CLEVELAND (AP) — Nearly 400 days after a white Cleveland police officer fatally shot a black 12-year-old carrying a pellet, his family believes it's unlikely officers will be indicted. A decision on whether to charge two white officers in the death of Tamir Rice could come any day. It's one of the higher-profile cases of…
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In final year, Obama seeks to stave off lame duck status

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama heads into the final quarter of his presidency with a string of wins, including an Asia-Pacific trade agreement and the historic nuclear accord with Iran. But Obama's last year as president also challenges anew his restrained approach to international crises, particularly in the Middle East. Americans' fears of attacks…
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