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The federal government says it will pay down $35 billion of the national debt this quarter. It's a reversal of an earlier prediction that the government would add more than $100 billion in debt during the second quarter of 2013. Economists say the payment was made possible by spending cuts and higher tax revenues.

Also: Google cuts 4,000 jobs at Motorola Mobility; most of those killed by earthquakes in Iran are women and children; excessive heat warnings continue in Arizona, California; Obama to announce food aid for drought-stricken farmers.

Weather-related traffic accidents have accounted for some of the deaths. Others have collapsed while shoveling snow. Several victims are said to have been homeless people who either didn't want to go to shelters or didn't get to one in time. Thankfully, more moderate weather is about to arrive.

Also: Singer Phil Everly dies; passengers rescued in the Antarctic resume their trip home; and a man who won $174 million didn't realize his good fortune for weeks.

The spire, which acts as a platform for various broadcast antennas, was readied for installation Thursday. The actual spire-raising will take place at a later date.

People in Lapeer, Michigan, called to report a car moving erratically. Callers said it looked like a six year old was driving. Police discovered that a six year old was driving. He'd taken the keys off the counter at home, and taught himself what to do.

Also: The CIA continues to send bags full of cash to the Afghan leader, The New York Times reports; an explosion, possibly due to a gas leak, injures dozens in Prague; Syria's prime minister survives a bombing; and the last spire is to be placed above new World Trade Center tower.

Democrat Barack Obama says he won't question the patriotism of others during the presidential race, and blames his own "carelessness" for some criticism of him. The speech is part of an effort to reassure voters about his commitment to the country.

Forces loyal to President Bashar Assad continue to attack those who oppose the regime, activists say.

The latest report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows the rate for July was little changed from June's 6.1 percent.

Also: Mass casualties after shootings in Toronto and Tuscaloosa; North Korea names new army vice marshal; Fed's Bernanke to testify about economy; court martial set to begin in Texas air base scandal.

Also: Top military official removed from post in North Korea, where young leader may be purging old guard; Microsoft and NBC call it quits — MSNBC.com will become NBCNews.com; some Egyptians protest as Secretary of State Clinton passes by.