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China's fast-growing armed forces face increased scrutiny over how they are spending what is now the world's second-largest military budget.

The government recently released a trove of information on how much doctors are charging Medicare. It does seem like some doctors are overcharging, but the explanation of high fees can be complicated.

A devastating series of tornadoes struck Oklahoma a year ago. Hispanics were among the hardest hit by the storms because of a lack of preparedness and a lack of Spanish-language information.

If you demand democracy in China, you can quickly find yourself at odds with the government. So these days, reformers are trying to use the constitution to make the party accountable to the people. But that didn't keep a Shanghai professor from getting suspended.

Critics of the NSA's secret surveillance hoped the debate that followed Edward Snowden's leaks would prompt the NSA to rethink the operation. Instead, one of the most noticeable effects so far has been a diversion of resources away from intelligence missions toward assessing damage from the leaks.

Maxine Powell, who ran a finishing school for Motown's musicians, died this weekend at the age of 98. Her work polishing young artists for mainstream exposure was a big reason the legendary record label was able to integrate the airwaves.

The docket this year has nothing quite as riveting as last year's same-sex marriage cases, or the challenge to President Obama's health care overhaul from the term before. But once again, the court is facing hot-button social issues and questions of presidential and congressional power.

Even the White House garden has taken a hit from Washington inaction on the budget, its veggies literally rotting on the vine. Insert metaphor here. But finally, is a deal near? And what are Sen. Ted Cruz's options to keep the spotlight on Obamacare? Also: Keeping an eye on the New Jersey Senate race.

Beginning next week, NPR News will be taking an in-depth look at the unprecedented oil drilling boom happening on the Northern Plains, where the state of North Dakota has fast become one of the nation's most productive drilling regions. NPR's Kelly McEvers talks with NPR reporter Kirk Siegler, back from a recent reporting trip in North Dakota for the series.

In Laredo, Texas, an elite debutante ball is one of many events held to celebrate George Washington's birthday. A new documentary, Las Marthas, explores the tradition. NPR's Rachel Martin speaks to director Christina Ibarra.