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President Obama unveiled his budget for 2010 on Thursday. Democrats praised the president's commitment to expanding health care coverage, education funding and clean energy. Republicans were skeptical — especially about plans to raise taxes on businesses and wealthy households.

The Taliban is reorganizing in Pakistan's tribal belt in preparation for the arrival of 17,000 U.S. troops across the border in Afghanistan. It doesn't want to fight on two fronts so it is no longer interested in waging war with the Pakistani army.

President Barack Obama spoke to a joint session of Congress for the first time last night before a national audience. He outlined an ambitious plan to repair the national economy, and reemphasized his commitment to health care, and education as top priorities. But some Republicans are skeptical of Obama's agenda.

President Obama has nominated former Washington Gov. Gary Locke to be commerce secretary. Locke became the nation's first Chinese-American governor in 1997. Obama's two previous choices for the Cabinet post withdrew their names — New Mexico's Democratic Gov. Bill Richardson and Republican Sen. Judd Gregg of New Hampshire.

The second album by Somalia-born Canadian alt-rapper K'Naan finds the artist embracing a swing-infused bent, complete with Ethiopian samples and strong hooks. Troubadour fits alongside the best pop efforts of Lil Wayne and T.I., with music that stays in your head for days.

Two recent contributions to the horror genre, Drood and the Twilight saga, have breathed new life into old thrills and chills. Maureen Corrigan has a review.

A new kind of tourist package is being offered in China. Call it the "U.S. Real Estate Bottom-Fishing Tour." The first of 40 Chinese real estate shoppers are looking in the U.S. this week to buy for foreclosure properties and other housing bargains.

President Obama embarked on his first foreign tour as head of state today, traveling north of the border to visit Canada. Talks with Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper focused on the economy, trade, energy and Afghanistan.

At the annual Oscar gala, the cameras flash and reporters ask whose clothes you're wearing. But they only offer a glimpse of nominees and their escorts. This Sunday, commentator Peggy Orenstein will walk the red carpet with her filmmaker husband — another time.

Pakistan's government says it is implementing Islamic law in the Swat Valley in exchange for a truce with Taliban militants. The deal has raised concern in the West. The cease-fire has been criticized as giving in to militants, and it's feared the deal could embolden other militant groups in Pakistan.