Keeping up with America

Pentagon calls up 200 National Guard troops after Trump’s Portland announcement
Fresh escalation and a key test of federal-state authority; the call-up puts troops on standby to guard federal sites as the shutdown clock ticks.

Oregon leaders say a Defense memo confirms Trump is federalizing Guard units for Portland
State officials say they were notified hours before the move and are preparing legal options—another front in the state–federal clash.

‘Backdoor’ funding cuts? Watchdogs warn the White House is slow-walking billions already approved by Congress
With three days left, advocates say delays could hollow out programs without a vote—raising fresh separation-of-powers questions.

Trump to attend a hastily arranged gathering of top generals at Quantico
Security, optics, and the risk of politicizing the ranks collide as the Commander in Chief drops in on a high-profile meeting.

Around the World

UN sanctions snap back on Iran over nuclear breaches; Tehran threatens retaliation
Arms and missile restrictions reimposed by Europe send shockwaves through the region and Tehran’s economy.

Netanyahu says Israel is working on a ceasefire plan ahead of Trump meeting
Jerusalem–Washington talks intensify as civilian toll mounts and pressure grows for a deal.

Moldova’s pro-EU government edges toward a majority in pivotal vote
A small nation at a big crossroads inches closer to Brussels—and further from Moscow.

Vietnam evacuates thousands as Typhoon Bualoi forces airport closures
Storm prep moves fast: coastal towns clear out and flights are grounded ahead of landfall.

Lets Talk Business and Tech

Asian markets edge higher as U.S. shutdown risk looms; dollar eases, gold hits records
Investors price a near-term Fed cut but brace for data delays if Washington goes dark.

SEC chair Paul Atkins aims to fast-track scrapping quarterly earnings reports, FT says
A radical shift for public markets could rewire how companies communicate—and how traders trade.

Walmart CEO: AI will change how 1.6M U.S. workers do their jobs
From scheduling to shelf-stocking, automation is creeping into retail’s front lines.

Lufthansa to cut 4,000 jobs by 2030 amid automation push
The European carrier trims admin roles as it digitizes operations.

Richer, Wiser, Happier

How to storm-proof your home before the next big blow
CR’s updated checklist (windows, generators, food safety) to prevent expensive repairs.

Save money at the pump this fall
Cut fuel costs now—tire pressure, route planning, and smart driving make a real dent.

Starting school blues? Easing separation anxiety for young kids
Simple routines and honest talk help little ones (and parents) handle big feelings.

Parenting while managing major depression
Clinician-backed scripts for what to say, when to seek help, and how to protect kids.

Sports and Showbiz Shenanigans

Europe wins the Ryder Cup at Bethpage, reasserting dominance
A bruising week ends with the trophy headed back across the Atlantic—again.

Viktor Hovland withdraws from singles with neck issue; match scored halved
The envelope rule kicks in as Europe closes on the magic number.

Rory McIlroy calls out “unacceptable” fan behavior at Bethpage
Even in victory, the biggest star says the line was crossed.

Paul Thomas Anderson’s “One Battle After Another” wins the weekend box office
Career-best opening for PTA; awards chatter kicks in early.

 Life Hacks to Hack Your Life

Storm prep, simplified
Your go-bag, backup power, and food safety plan—updated for 2025.

Spend less on gas
Drive smoother, plan routes, check tires—your wallet feels it.

Watch for tech-support scams
Red flags and what to do if you clicked—straight from the FTC.

Outdoor living, winter-ready
Patios, heaters, safety checks—make your space work year-round.

Home security, demystified
CR’s primer on cameras, sensors, and avoiding subscription creep.

Flooring that survives kids and pets
Materials, durability, and what not to buy.

Help a toddler through separation anxiety
Drop-off scripts and routines that actually work.

When parenting meets depression
Practical steps to protect yourself and your kids.

Carolyn Hax on better playtime with your toddler
Gentle nudges that make family time… fun again.

Asking Eric: navigating childcare friction at work
A calm script for colleagues—and yourself.