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The Federal Reserve was widely anticipated to announce that it was tapering its $85-billion-a-month bond-buying program. But, instead, it delivered a surprise that markets embraced joyously.

Houston's Mission Control is still talking to the astronauts circling the globe in the International Space Station. But most other phone lines are down, and NASA says the shutdown could deter launches of other spacecraft and slow repair work on the Hubble Space Telescope if something goes wrong.

It smells like vinegar and tastes like spoiled cider. But fans of the fermented tea say that kombucha helps fight off diseases and aging. Sounds fantastical? Well, it probably is. At this point, scientists still know little about kombucha's health effects.

The famed hall's five full-time stagehands went on strike, and that forced the cancellation of one gala. Tax records show their average total compensation is more than $400,000 each a year. The dispute was over whether they'll also be working in the hall's new Education Wing.

Wednesday is World Food Day, an occasion meant to strengthen the commitment to end global hunger. Across Europe, activists are throwing disco soup parties to turn leftover food into delicious food to give to the hungry. And as the name suggests, there's music, too.

There was a time when secretaries of state were seen as little more than functionaries. That view changed in 2000's Florida presidential election recount, which starred Katherine Harris. Now, secretaries of state are involved in implementing new state laws that have been making it either easier or harder for non-traditional voters to cast ballots — with decidedly partisan implications.

Do pushy parents make a baby fatter, or is it all in the genes? That's one of the big puzzles that scientists are trying to answer. Two studies suggest that an individual's interest in food is a big factor, even in babies. A genetic predisposition may be involved.

Britons are accustomed to rain. But the wettest January in British history has led to extensive flooding and forced many to flee their homes for extended periods. And there's no relief in sight.

Sportswriter Stefan Fatsis talks to host Robert Siegel about the latest developments in the Dolphins bullying investigation. Carried out by attorney Ted Wells on behalf of the National Football League, the investigation found a "pattern of harassment" on the team, including texts and voicemail abuse targeting Jonathan Martin.

Malls have long been the place to "shop till you drop." In Southern California, Forest Lawn, a funeral industry leader, has made them places to shop before you drop.