Congress Considers Patch To Keep Helium Supply Afloat
The Senate is considering legislation to prevent a global helium shortage from worsening in October. That's when the Federal Helium Program is set to terminate.
Business
Will Tweaking Windows 8 Be Enough To Revive The PC?
When Microsoft introduced Windows 8 last year, the software giant billed the new operating system as one of the most critical releases in its history. The system would bridge the gap between personal computers and the fast-growing mobile world of tablets and smartphones. But this week, the company sent signals that it might soon alter Windows 8 to address some early criticism.
Dow Jones Average Makes History, Closes Above 15,000
With treasury yields near historic lows, and cash and money markets yielding almost nothing, investors are putting their money in stocks. Analysts say the Federal Reserve's efforts to keep interest rates extremely low are a key driver.
I Know I'm Supposed To Follow My Passion. But What If I Don't Have A Passion?
A young college grad asks an economist for advice.
Perry's Vision For University Of Texas Criticized
There's a debate across the country over how well universities are preparing graduates for the real world, and whether colleges should operate more like businesses. That debate is particularly heated in Texas, where Gov. Rick Perry wants big changes at state colleges, including the flagship University of Texas.
Shell Digs Deep To Tap Into Lucrative Oil, Gas Reserves
Royal Dutch Shell is pushing ahead with plans for the world's deepest offshore oil and gas production facility. It will be nearly two miles beneath the surface of the Gulf of Mexico, off the coast of Louisiana. It is testing the bounds of the oil and gas industry's capability to drill ever deeper.
Furloughs Only The Latest Blow To Federal Worker Morale
Government work was once synonymous with job security and stability. But these days furloughs, pay freezes and threats of further cuts are fomenting discontent. Some federal employees also say that public criticism of the federal government is also taking a toll.
Nearly Three Years After Dodd-Frank, Reforms Happen Slowly
The Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act was a sweeping legislative package designed to prevent another financial collapse. Journalist Gary Rivlin says passing the bill was just a first step in a long road to real reform, and the financial system is as vulnerable to disaster it was in 2008.
U.S. Turns Up Heat On Costly Commercial Cybertheft In China
U.S. official displeasure has grown over the problem of Chinese cyber-espionage. The Obama administration has signaled that it will step up the investigation and prosecution of trade-secret theft and has not ruled out punitive measures.
Inspiration For Marge Simpson Passes Away
Margaret Groening died last month at the age of 94. Her son Matt Groening created The Simpsons, which is now the longest-running scripted TV show ever.