Former President Joe Biden has begun radiation therapy, along with hormone treatment, to fight aggressive prostate cancer, a spokesperson confirmed Friday. The 82-year-old’s radiation treatments are scheduled to continue for five weeks. Biden first revealed his diagnosis in May, saying the cancer had spread to his bones but not entered any organs. (Story URL)

Thousands in New Jersey remain without electricity as a powerful nor’easter brings heavy rain and flooding expected to continue into Monday morning. The state has declared a state of emergency, and several East Coast airports are reporting flight delays and cancellations. Forecasters warn of wind gusts up to 60 mph, with the Jersey Shore facing the greatest flooding risk. (Story URL)

Authorities say a shooting early Saturday at Willie’s Bar and Grill in St. Helena Island, South Carolina, left four people dead and 20 others injured. The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office reported gunfire broke out around 1 a.m. Hundreds of people were at the bar when shots were fired. Many ran to nearby businesses and homes for safety. No arrests have been made. (Story URL)

The government shutdown entered its second week Sunday, forcing the Smithsonian museums, research centers, and the National Zoo to close after using reserve funds through October 11th. More than 4,000 federal employees across seven agencies received 60‑day layoff notices. Some notices sent to CDC staff were issued by mistake and later withdrawn. (Story URL)

California has approved a new law protecting immigrant street vendors’ personal data from federal immigration authorities. Governor Gavin Newsom signed the measure, which takes effect January 1st, to prevent local governments from sharing vendor information such as names, addresses, or Social Security numbers without a court order. (Story URL)