10 Things to Know: Dec. 18

1. WASHINGTON TIES SONY HACK TO NORTH KOREA

Federal investigators have connected the unprecedented act of cyberwarfare to the isolated communist nation, an official says, as Sony cancels the release of the targeted film, "The Interview."

2. US SEEKS TO END LONG ENMITY WITH CUBA

The policy shift marks an extraordinary undertaking by Obama without Congress' authorization as he charts the waning years of his presidency.

3. WALL STREET CHEERS FED MOVE, DOW RISES 290

The U.S. stock market has its best day in more than a year after the Federal Reserve says it will remain "patient" in its approach to raising interest rates.

4. WHO'S PLANNING TO BAN FRACKING

The decision by New York state is cheered by environmentalists, while the industry and its supporters express outrage.

5. OBAMA TALKS ABOUT WHAT IT'S LIKE BEING BLACK

The president says he's been mistaken for the valet and a waiter, and worries his daughters could face stereotypes.

6. CHARGES IN DEADLY 2012 MENINGITIS OUTBREAK

In the biggest criminal case ever in the U.S. over contaminated medicine, 14 employees at a Massachusetts pharmacy are charged after 64 people were killed nationwide.

7. MITCH MCCONNELL TAKES AIM AT OBAMA'S GREEN 'CRUSADE'

The incoming Senate majority leader tells the AP that he'll do everything he can to stop stricter limits on emissions from coal-burning power plants.

8. WHY WAITS AT US-MEXICO BORDER HAVE EASED

Speedier travel between San Diego and Tijuana, Mexico, follows a $741 million construction project that includes new vehicle lanes.

9. STUDY: ALCATRAZ INMATES COULD HAVE SURVIVED FAMED ESCAPE IN 1962

Dutch scientists, studying the tides and currents, conclude the three men might have made it to land.

10. WHAT'S COMING TO A RESTAURANT NEAR YOU

The number of calories that alcoholic drinks contain will be on menus for those who imbibe.