Swine Flu spreading...Hate crimes expansion...Wal-Mart caskets

UNDATED (AP) School officials across the country say the swine flu virus is hitting fast and hard, forcing them to temporarily shut down schools to stop its spread. A middle school in Middletown, Conn. is the latest to fall victim to the bug. The U.S.

Department of education says at least 351 schools were closed last week alone, affecting 126,000 students in 19 states.

Washington (AP) Federal laws against hate crimes now prohibit assaults on people based on sexual orientation. The expanded law was tacked on to a defense bill President Barack Obama signed into law today. The law was opposed by conservatives, who say it creates a special class of victims.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (AP) Officials in Kentucky say a part-time census taker died at the tree in a forest where his body was found last month with a rope around his neck. He also had the word "fed" scrawled on his chest. Authorities have yet to say if the death was a homicide, suicide or an accident.

WASHINGTON (AP) House Democrats have come to terms on key elements of a health care reform bill. It's expected to require virtually universal sign-ups and offer a new government-run insurance option for millions. Officials say the legislation could be up for a vote on the House floor next week.

MILWAUKEE (AP) Wal-Mart's product line now stretches from the cradle to the grave. The big retailer has joined Costco in offering caskets on its Web site that undercut many funeral homes. Steel models begin at $999 and are shipped to funeral homes. The funeral industry says Internet casket sales are nothing new.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 10-28-09 1643CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list