US President Trump threatens to abolish FEMA during tour of North Carolina

China recently doubled subsidies for a consumer trade-in program to 300 billion yuan, aimed at boosting consumption without resorting to cash handouts. The subsidies, covering 15% to 20% of select product purchases like smartphones and appliances, are expected to support retail sales and align with China's 5% GDP growth target and focus on consumption over infrastructure spending. While some doubt the long-term impact of one-time subsidies, further programs are anticipated as Beijing looks to stimulate...

Pamela Björkman, a biochemist from the California Institute of Technology, has won the Wolf Prize for her groundbreaking research on infectious diseases, including coronavirus and HIV treatment. Her work on T-cell recognition and immunization strategies has offered new hope in combating viral enemies. Other recipients of the prestigious award include architect Tiantian Xu for her transformative projects in rural China, and professors from various universities for their contributions to agriculture, physics, and chemistry. Full Article

President Donald Trump's plan to avert a partial government shutdown faces a House-wide vote on Tuesday, with the House Rules Committee advancing the bill along party lines. The bill, a continuing resolution, extends funding through fiscal 2026 but faces opposition from some Republicans and Democrats. Despite challenges, Trump and Speaker Mike Johnson are optimistic about passing the bill with added defense spending and cuts to non-defense discretionary spending. Full Article

Hudson's Bay, Canada's oldest retailer, has entered creditor protection due to struggling with debt and declining sales. The high-end chain, dating back to the 17th-century fur-trade era, is facing challenges from the pandemic, inflation, and trade tensions with the U.S. The company plans to close some stores as it restructures its debt. Its parent company, HBC, also controls other luxury chains like Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus, which have also faced financial difficulties. Luxury...

Secretary of State Marco Rubio engaged in personal diplomacy before high-stakes negotiations in Saudi Arabia and Canada, including talks with Elon Musk and President Trump. Despite past doubts about his standing, Rubio's interactions with Musk and Trump indicated a possible strengthening of his position within the administration. Rubio's defense of U.S. interests against Russia and support for Ukraine, as well as his collaboration with Musk on international issues, showcased his evolving role as a key...

Peter Cullen, known for his iconic voice as Eeyore in the Winnie The Pooh films since 1988, also voiced Optimus Prime in the Transformers franchise, showcasing his impressive range. In a video at Botcon 2010, he effortlessly transitioned between the two voices, delighting fans with his talent. Cullen's voice work extends to roles such as Predator in the 1987 movie and Karr in Knight Rider, earning him numerous awards and a Lifetime Achievement Voice Arts...