5 things you need to know Thursday
1. New Hong Kong ultimatum deadline from protesters approaches
Hong Kong pro-democracy protests, which have been polite and peaceful, may escalate into direct confrontation Thursday. Student activists say they will occupy government offices if the territory's embattled leader, Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying, does not resign by Thursday evening. Hong Kong police warned of serious consequences if protesters charge government buildings.
2. U.Va. suspect Jesse Matthew will arrive in court for traffic charges
Jesse Matthew, the suspect in University of Virginia student Hannah Graham's disappearance, will face traffic charges Thursday. His bail hearing in the Graham case was also expected to take place, but it has been moved. Matthew has been connected to additional cases involving missing girls in the Virginia area.
3. Millions of Muslims begin annual pilgrimage to Mecca
In one of Islam's most sacred traditions, Muslims from around the world will begin their pilgrimage called the hajj Thursday. Many pilgrims start their journey in the Saudi Arabian city of Medina with a visit to Mohammed's mosque, where the prophet is buried. They then head to Mecca and perform a set of pre-hajj rituals, including circling the Kaaba counterclockwise with their hearts tilted toward it — the same rituals that conclude the hajj for many.
4. Derek Jeter guests on 'The Tonight Show'
The farewell tour continues. Retired Yankee Derek Jeter will visit The Tonight Show With Jimmy Fallon on Thursday, presumably to discuss his career and future and to share a few laughs with the comedian. Jeter ended his 20-year career Sunday as the Yankees took on the Boston Red Sox. Wonder if he'll grab his namesake sandwich?
5. Putting Ebola's risks into perspective
The diagnosis of the first Ebola patient on U.S. soil this week may have put people in a panic, fearing the exotic virus more than mundane germs — such as influenza — that pose a far greater threat to the average American.
Bonus: Great American Beer Festival opens its tab in Denver
Fill up those glasses. The Great American Beer Festival opens its festivities in Denver on Thursday, bringing breweries and fans from across the county. Cheers to that!
And, the essentials:
Weather: Severe storms will pelt the central USA, while both coasts will be mostly dry and mild Thursday. Chilly air will sweep into the north-central USA.
Stocks: Asia markets fell sharply Thursday.
TV Tonight: Wondering what to watch tonight? TV critic Robert Bianco looks at Bones and Scandal.
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Contributing: Calum MacLeod, Paste BN, The Associated Press