The situation reflects a sharp increase in demand for menopausal hormone therapy (HRT) following changes in the way federal health officials have presented the treatment’s risks and benefits. As more women seek prescriptions, manufacturers have struggled to expand production quickly enough to meet demand.

The shortage has also created a domino effect. Patients who cannot find their usual estrogen patches are turning to other formulations, including gels and creams, putting additional pressure on products that are already facing supply constraints.

Why estrogen patches are becoming harder to find

Estradiol patches deliver estrogen through the skin and are commonly prescribed to help relieve menopause symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats. However, pharmacies have reported difficulties obtaining certain brands and strengths.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said in September that it was working with all six manufacturers of FDA-approved estradiol patches to increase production. The agency has not declared an official shortage and says the patches remain available, although the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists has listed them as being in shortage since January and availability varies by pharmacy. Although the agency reported that supply had nearly doubled over the previous year, the increase had not kept pace with demand. Expanding output takes time, since the patches require specialized equipment and are low-margin generic products, manufacturers say.

One factor behind the growing interest in hormone therapy was the FDA’s decision in November 2025 to ask manufacturers to remove certain risk statements about cardiovascular disease, breast cancer and probable dementia from the boxed warning on their labels. In February 2026, the agency approved the changes for a first group of six products. The warnings were based on findings from the Women’s Health Initiative study, published in 2002.

The change contributed to renewed interest in treatments that women had previously approached with greater caution. As demand increased, manufacturers faced additional pressure to supply pharmacies and healthcare providers.

Shortages are spreading to injections and vaginal creams

The supply problems are no longer limited to patches. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) listed several estradiol valerate injection products from Hikma, American Regent and Par Sterile Products as being in shortage in early September.

The organization also reported supply disruptions involving vaginal estradiol creams made by Viatris’ Mylan unit, Padagis and Teva. Some products were listed as being on back order or subject to allocation, meaning pharmacies could receive limited quantities.

CVS Health said manufacturers had struggled for several months to provide enough of certain strengths of estradiol injections. The company added that the situation had worsened in recent weeks.

The growing number of shortages may also be connected to changes in patients’ prescriptions. Kathleen Jordan, chief medical officer of telehealth provider Midi Health, described a domino effect: after persistent difficulties obtaining patches, patients and prescribers began looking for alternatives such as gels and creams, increasing demand for those products as well.

Cost Plus Drugs reports a fivefold to tenfold increase in demand

The surge is also visible at online pharmacies. Cost Plus Drugs, the digital pharmacy founded by entrepreneur Mark Cuban, said demand for products sold through its platform had increased between fivefold and tenfold for almost every product.

Cuban attributed the growth partly to the company’s low prices. He said Cost Plus Drugs was purchasing as much as possible from suppliers to maintain inventory while its partners worked to expand production capacity.

Despite the increase, the company said it had largely managed to maintain its supply of estrogen replacement products, with only intermittent interruptions.

The situation illustrates how demand is affecting different parts of the pharmaceutical market. Even when a pharmacy manages to secure inventory, it may face difficulties replenishing certain products as manufacturers work to increase output.

What manufacturers are doing to increase production

Drugmakers say they are taking steps to improve availability, although expanding production takes time.

Viatris, which manufactures estradiol patches and creams, reported a significant increase in demand and said it had been working throughout 2026 to expand supply. The company added a production shift at its St. Albans, Vermont, facility earlier in the year, bringing the plant to around-the-clock operations.

Viatris said its output was now significantly higher and that it was meeting its current supply plans for vaginal estradiol cream. It also announced investments in additional equipment, a new production line and potential partnerships with third parties to increase the long-term supply of patches.

Amneal, another manufacturer of estradiol patches, also reported a substantial increase in demand following the FDA’s warning changes. The company said it was working to boost production.

However, the supply situation may not be explained by a general shortage of raw materials. Kevin Schipper, director of product lifecycle management at pharmaceutical consulting firm ProPharma, said the pattern of disruptions did not appear to point to a broad lack of raw materials, although he did not rule out supply-chain problems.

For patients, the availability of an alternative does not necessarily mean that one product can replace another. Vaginal estrogen treatments are generally used for symptoms affecting the vaginal and urinary areas, while systemic hormone therapy is prescribed for broader menopause symptoms.

Under Section 12810.5 of the California Vehicle Code, those who reach that point total are initially considered negligent drivers. The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) may take action against their licenses, although there are exceptions and procedures for reviewing each case.

How many points can lead to a driver’s license suspension in California?

According to the California DMV, the point totals that can lead to a suspension order are:

• 4 points in 12 months.
• 6 points in 24 months.
• 8 points in 36 months.

When any of these thresholds are reached, the negligent operator treatment system (NOTS) calls for a six-month suspension and a one-year probation period.

The order takes effect 34 days after it is mailed. However, drivers have the right to request a hearing to present evidence and challenge the action.

What violations add points to a driver’s license?

The DMV assigns points for certain traffic violations and accidents in which the driver is found at fault.

Among the examples published by the agency are:

• Speeding: generally, one point.
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs: two points.
• Leaving the scene of an accident: two points.
• Accidents where the driver is at fault: generally, one point.

Before reaching the suspension threshold, the DMV also issues warnings, such as a letter after accumulating two points in 12 months and a notice of intent to suspend after reaching three points in that period.

Section 12810.5 sets specific conditions for certain drivers with commercial licenses of Class A or B, who may be subject to different limits.

The measure bars these documents from being used again for international travel, even if they still have years left before they expire.

The policy is designed to protect citizens from identity theft and prevent the misuse of official documents. Once the report is filed, the passport is invalidated and the holder must apply for a new one in person if they need to travel outside the country.

What happens if you find your passport after reporting it lost or stolen

The passport cannot be used again for international travel, even if it turns up in perfect condition and has not yet expired: “Reporting your passport lost or stolen does not replace it”. That means the citizen must go through another process to get a valid document.

How to report a lost or stolen passport

The U.S. government offers three ways to report a valid passport lost or stolen:

• Online: through the official Form Filler tool. The State Department says it cancels the passport within one business day and sends confirmation by email.
• By mail: by completing, printing and signing Form DS-64. You must also include a photocopy of both sides of a photo ID. Cancellation can take several weeks.
• When applying for a new passport: using Form DS-11 and explaining the circumstances under which the previous document disappeared. This option can also take several weeks to result in cancellation.

The key is to file the report as soon as possible to reduce the risk of the document being misused.

How to apply for a new passport

Citizens who need to replace their passport must submit a new application in person using Form DS-11. They cannot use the usual online or mail renewal process.

According to the State Department’s official instructions, the process requires:

1. Complete and print Form DS-11, but do not sign it until instructed to do so by the agent.
2. Bring physical proof of U.S. citizenship, such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate.
3. Bring a valid photo ID and a photocopy of both sides.
4. Submit a photo that meets the official passport requirements.
5. State where and when the previous document was lost or stolen and attach a copy of the police report, if there is one.
6. Appear at an authorized acceptance facility and pay the applicable fees. For adults, the new passport book costs US$130, plus US$35 for application acceptance, according to the official fees posted. Expedited service carries an additional US$60 fee.

The government warns that if details about the lost passport are missing, it may pause the application temporarily and request Form DS-64.

It is also important to know that processing times do not include mail delivery periods, so officials recommend starting the process well in advance of any international trip.

The properties are located in Pozuelo de Alarcon, a town on the outskirts of Madrid, and stand out for their contemporary architecture, bright spaces and the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.

The development offers two home types, measuring 395 and 401 square meters, and is listed in the brokerage’s catalog as “Coming soon”.

Georgina Rodriguez adds 24 luxury villas to her Bellhatria real estate catalog

The new development in Bellhatria Real Estate’s portfolio is called LaFinca Hoyo 15 and consists of 24 attached homes. The brokerage presents the project as a limited collection of luxury properties, with golf course views and an architectural concept designed to combine privacy, nature and comfort.

Georgina Rodriguez’s company features the project in its official catalog, where it is listed as a upcoming release and no sales price has been published yet. The development also has its own page on the LaFinca Real Estate website, the company behind the project.

What the 24 luxury villas offered by Georgina Rodriguez’s brokerage are like

The LaFinca Hoyo 15 development includes two home types, measuring 395 and 401 square meters, with each property spread across three floors and featuring a garage and private pool. The project was designed to maximize natural light and maintain a direct connection between the indoor spaces and the outdoor setting.

Its features include large windows, private gardens, terraces and interior courtyards. The complex has more than 40,000 square meters of community gardens, which complement the green spaces attached to each home.

According to the developer’s documents, the homes were designed with a south-facing orientation to maximize natural light and with spacious layouts that allow the landscape to blend with the home’s living areas.

The elective share equals 30% of a state-defined estate. But that percentage is not necessarily calculated on all the assets listed in a will, and it does not mean the spouse automatically receives 30% of each property, account or asset.

To exercise this right, the surviving spouse must meet certain requirements and formally file the election within the legal deadline. The law also sets out which assets are counted in calculating the share and covers situations in which the claim may not be available.

What Florida’s elective share is and why it allows an inheritance claim even if the will excludes the spouse

The elective share is a right under Florida law that allows a surviving spouse to receive part of the deceased person’s estate, even if the spouse was left out of the will. According to Section 732.201 of the Florida Statutes, the provision applies when the deceased was domiciled in the state at the time of death.

To use it, the spouse must file a formal election in probate court. The right is not granted automatically and it does not replace other benefits a spouse may receive, such as certain rights to the family home and exempt property.

How the law calculates the 30% inheritance share

Section 732.2065 says the elective share equals 30% of the elective estate. That calculation base includes not only probate assets, but may also include other assets of the deceased, such as:

• The person’s share of the family home.
• Certain bank accounts and securities with designated beneficiaries.
• Interests in jointly owned property.
• Assets transferred to certain revocable trusts.
• Certain retirement benefits, pensions and life insurance.

The law sets out exclusions and specific rules to avoid double counting. For example, if the elective estate is worth $1 million, 30% equals $300,000. But the 30% is the total value to be received and not necessarily an amount on top of what was already inherited.

How long you have to claim the inheritance

The surviving spouse must formally file the election within the deadline set by Section 732.2135. As a general rule, the deadline is the earlier of:

• Six months after receiving notice of estate administration.
• Two years after the death.

In certain circumstances, a court extension may be requested, subject to legal limits. A valid prenuptial or postnuptial agreement can also include a waiver of the elective share.

The project stands out for its architectural features, but it also carries a symbolic meaning: It will pay tribute to one of the most important figures in motorsports history, whose legacy went beyond the track and remains alive around the world.

Who the megabuilding honors and where it will be located

The building will be named Senna Tower in tribute to Ayrton Senna, the Brazilian driver who won three Formula 1 world championships, in 1988, 1990 and 1991. His career made him one of the top figures in international motorsports until his death on May 1, 1994, during the San Marino Grand Prix.

The tower is being built in Balneario Camboriu, in the state of Santa Catarina in southern Brazil. It will stand on Atlantica Avenue, facing the ocean, in an area that is home to some of the country’s tallest residential buildings.

The project is being led by FG Empreendimentos, in partnership with Senna Brands. Its design also includes references to the racer’s career: the base represents the start of his career, the body of the tower symbolizes the road to improvement, and the top represents reaching the summit.

How tall Senna Tower will be and what the building will be used for

According to the published figures, the building will stand 544 meters tall and have 154 floors above ground. At that size, it aims to become the tallest residential building in the world.

The development will be aimed at luxury housing and will include 228 residential units. These will include apartments, suspended mansions, duplex penthouses and triplex megapenthouses.

In addition to the residences, the project includes more than 6,000 square meters of leisure areas spread across different levels. Planned spaces include pools, gyms, dining areas, wellness areas and an observatory located more than 500 meters above ground.

The proposal also includes public-access areas for entertainment and dining, as well as an immersive experience devoted to the history of Ayrton Senna.

When construction of Senna Tower in Brazil is expected to be completed

According to the timeline published on the official Senna Tower website, delivery of the tower is expected between 2033 and 2035.

The construction plan includes several stages, from foundation work and the basement structure to the building’s floors, elevator installation, facades and interior finishes.

According to information released by the developer, the tower’s structural phase is scheduled for 2028, while finishing work and initial testing would continue until 2030.

The final phase will include inspections, documentation and the formal handover of the units. If the announced deadlines are met, Brazil could add one of the world’s tallest residential buildings in the next decade.

Christmas Tree With Built-In Lights: What the 2026 Trend Looks Like

The Christmas tree with built-in lights is shaping up as one of the standout options for decorating homes in 2026. Unlike traditional models, it does not need garlands or hanging lights because the lighting is built into its branches.

This feature makes it possible to achieve a more uniform and orderly look without having to manually string lights around the tree. It also makes setup easier and reduces the number of items needed to complete the holiday setting.

Its design also allows the lights to become part of the structure and follow the shape of the tree, creating a visual effect that stands out without the need for too many ornaments.

What Are the Advantages of This Model

One of the main advantages of this Christmas tree is that it lets you handle much of the decorating as soon as you set it up. With the lights already placed on the branches, there is no need to add separate light strands or worry about how to arrange them for a balanced look.

It also saves time when preparing spaces for the holidays and creates a cleaner, more open look. Depending on the model, it can feature warm, white or multicolor lights, allowing the lighting to be tailored to each room’s style.

Another point to keep in mind is that it can be paired with traditional ornaments, such as balls, ribbons and stars, or the lighting can be left as the main focus of the decor.

What Other Christmas Trees Will Be Trendy in 2026

In addition to models with built-in lighting, other versions also stand out among this Christmas season’s decor ideas:

• Classic tree: a traditional option that never goes out of style and can be combined with different colors, ornaments and garlands.
• Snow-covered tree: characterized by white-tipped branches that recreate the look of snow and create an elegant, cozy feel.
• LED tree: includes high-tech lighting to create different visual effects and give the room a modern style.

The different options make it possible to tailor the decor to each home, from the most traditional designs to ideas that prioritize lighting and contemporary details.

In this regard, the U.S. Navy includes a specific recommendation in its IA Family Handbook: do not let the fuel level drop below one-third of the tank’s capacity. The guidance is part of a set of tips for traveling more safely, both on long trips and around town.

Why is it advisable to keep at least 1/3 of a fuel tank full?

The main reason is to have a reserve that allows the trip to continue if an unexpected situation comes up.

Even if a driver has planned where to refuel, circumstances can arise that change those plans, such as traffic jams, detours, closed roads, or gas stations that are out of service.

Keeping at least one-third of the tank full provides an extra cushion of driving range to find another option without having to rely on finding fuel right away.

The recommendation becomes especially important on long trips, drives through sparsely traveled areas, or trips where the location of the next gas station is not known precisely.

What other advice does the U.S. Navy offer for safe travel?

In the same section of its handbook, the Navy lists other measures aimed at reducing risks during road travel.

These include:

• Keep the vehicle doors locked and always wear a seat belt.
• Travel preferably on main roads and highways.
• Carry a flashlight, a blanket, and a first-aid kit.
• Bring extra warm clothing when traveling through cold areas.
• Carry water and nonperishable food on long trips.
• Have a cell phone to call for help in an emergency.

The final regulations for the “No Tax on Tips” provision were released on April 10, 2026, after more than 300 public comments and a hearing held in October 2025.

How much you can deduct and for how long

The law lets eligible workers deduct up to $25,000 per year in qualified tips for tax years 2025 through 2028, so the 2027 return still falls inside the window. It is a deduction, not an exemption: tips remain income, and Social Security and Medicare taxes still apply. The benefit shrinks once modified adjusted gross income passes $150,000, or $300,000 for joint filers.

IRS details the list of workers who qualify for the $25,000 tax deduction: How the list is organized

The list uses a three-digit system, the Treasury Tipped Occupation Code, and sorts jobs into eight categories:

1. beverage and food service
2. entertainment and events
3. hospitality and guest services
4. home services
5. personal services
6. personal appearance and wellness
7. recreation and instruction
8. transportation and delivery

Compared with the proposed version, the final rules added visual artists and floral designers (personal services) and gas pump attendants (transportation and delivery).

Your tips must qualify too

Appearing on the list is only the first test. For money to count as a qualified tip, it must meet these conditions:

• Form of payment: cash or an equivalent, such as a check, credit or debit card, gift card, tokens exchangeable for a fixed amount, or a mobile payment app.
• Source: customers or, for employees, tip-sharing arrangements such as tip pools.
• Voluntary nature: the customer pays of their own accord, with no negotiation.

That last rule excludes service charges that are added automatically. The IRS’s own example is a restaurant that adds 18% for large parties and splits it among waiters and support staff: if the customer can’t remove or change it, that money is not a qualified tip.

What you need to be able to show

The amount is deductible only if it appears on a Form W-2, 1099-NEC, 1099-MISC or 1099-K, or if the worker reported it on Form 4137. Gig workers and other self-employed people can also qualify, provided their occupation is on the list and they meet the other requirements. For them, the deduction carries an extra cap: it can’t exceed their net income.

Keeping a tidy monthly record of what you earn is, in practice, the best way to reach your return with the numbers in order.

When it is finished, it will stand more than 1,000 meters tall, surpass the current record-holder, Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, and become the first building in history to cross that mark.

The world’s tallest building

Jeddah Tower, formerly known as Kingdom Tower, is a skyscraper under construction in the city of Jeddah, in Saudi Arabia, as the centerpiece of a massive urban development called Jeddah Economic City, about 20 kilometers north of the city. Its stated goal is to become the tallest building ever built and the first to reach 1,000 meters in height, a threshold no structure has yet achieved.

The tower is designed to reach at least 1,008 meters, though the final exact figure remains undisclosed. That would put it about 180 meters above the Burj Khalifa, which at 828 meters is now the world’s tallest building. As for floors, the latest reports on the project put it at around 157 stories (the project specifications also include additional structural levels). Taken together, it will be a unprecedented structure in scale.

Construction resumes on the future world’s tallest building

The project has not followed a straight path. Construction began in 2013, but stopped in January 2018, when the owners halted structural work over problems with a contractor, amid an anti-corruption campaign in Saudi Arabia. By then, the tower was about one-third complete. Later, the COVID-19 pandemic added new delays. For years, the steel and concrete frame sat waiting for a decision.

The project is moving again: after a restart agreement announced in late 2024, construction officially resumed in January 2025. Since then, progress has been steady. According to the developer, by September 2026 the tower had reached the 116th floor and stood about 466 meters tall, more than halfway up the Burj Khalifa, with a little more than 40 floors left. The figure was confirmed by the company’s chief executive during a mega-projects summit in Riyadh.

It will be unique in the world

Beyond the height record, Jeddah Tower aims to stand out for what it will include. Plans call for a Four Seasons hotel, private residences, premium office space, luxury apartments and what would be the world’s highest observation deck, a viewing platform at an unprecedented height for the public. All of that is part of a carefully engineered design meant to withstand wind and the conditions at such extreme height.

Among the prevention measures, the agency highlights the importance of keeping indoor spaces clean and adopting habits that help prevent the buildup of dirt and pollutants.

In that sense, white vinegar is presented as a household alternative used to make certain cleaning tasks easier, including cleaning the oven.

How to Use White Vinegar to Remove Oven Grease

One household option to make oven cleaning easier is to use a small container with white vinegar.

To try this method, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the oven and wait until it is completely cool.
2. Place a small dish or heat-resistant container with a moderate amount of white vinegar.
3. Leave the container inside the oven for a resting period, with the door closed.
4. Remove the dish and wipe the inside with a damp cloth.
5. If greasy residue remains, use a specific oven degreaser, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Why White Vinegar Can Help with Household Cleaning

White vinegar is a common kitchen staple and is used for a range of household tasks thanks to its composition.

Its acetic acid content can remove certain mineral deposits, water spots and soap residue. However, its effectiveness depends on the type of dirt and the surface it is applied to.

In the case of the oven, grease buildup from cooking can cling to the walls and trays because of the high temperatures, and vinegar can help remove surface stains.

What the Health Ministry Recommends for Keeping the Home Clean

Among the measures highlighted in the document are the importance of airing out rooms daily, keeping indoor spaces clean and using cleaning methods that help reduce dust buildup.

It also underscores the need to adopt preventive habits to avoid exposure to pollutants present in the air inside enclosed spaces.

What Precautions to Take When Cleaning the Oven With White Vinegar

Although it is a common household ingredient, it is important to take some precautions before using it for home cleaning.

• Do not mix vinegar with bleach, as the combination can release toxic gases.
• Avoid contact with electrical components and heating elements.
• Do not use it on surfaces sensitive to acidic products.
• Do not place makeshift containers inside the oven while it is on.
• Check the manufacturer’s instructions before using any cleaning product.

According to Dr. Fiorella Ximena Palmas Candia, an endocrinologist and member of the Nutrition Area of the Spanish Society of Endocrinology and Nutrition (SEEN), these kinds of food combinations can help improve the bioavailability of certain nutrients, although the extent of these interactions can vary and not all of their properties have the same level of scientific evidence.

Why mix turmeric with black pepper?

The mix stands out mainly for piperine, a compound found in black pepper that may help the body absorb curcumin. For that reason, the two ingredients are often combined in preparations designed to make better use of turmeric’s compounds.

A source of healthy fat, such as olive oil, is also often added to this mix. That is because curcumin is poorly soluble in water, and its properties mean the presence of fats may help the body use it more effectively.

What benefits are attributed to it?

Turmeric and its main active compound, curcumin, are the subject of numerous studies for their possible antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, experts warn that not all claims about its benefits have the same level of scientific support and that the effects may depend on the amount consumed and how it is taken.

That is why adding this combination to the diet can be part of a varied eating plan, but it should not be seen as a substitute for a healthy diet or medical treatment.

How can it be consumed?

One simple way to include this mix in your daily routine is to use turmeric, a small amount of black pepper and olive oil as a seasoning for vegetables, rice, meats, fish or legumes. It can also be added to preparations such as teas or hot drinks.

In any case, specialist Palmas Candia notes that more does not necessarily mean greater benefits. Excessive intake of certain nutrients or compounds can have adverse effects, so it is important to maintain a balanced diet and consult a health professional if you have questions about supplements or specific doses.

These are two common ingredients that can help loosen some residue through their acidic action and scrubbing.

How to make the vinegar and coarse salt mix for cleaning the oven

The process calls for a mixture of white vinegar, coarse salt, and warm water to treat areas with built-up grime.

To try this method on compatible surfaces, you need:

• 1 cup coarse salt.
• 1 cup white distilled vinegar.
• 1/2 cup warm water.
• A soft sponge or a soft-bristle brush.
• A damp microfiber cloth.
• Cleaning gloves.

The process consists of the following steps:

1. Turn off the oven and wait for it to cool. Before you begin, remove the racks, trays, and utensils from inside.
2. Prepare the mixture. Place the coarse salt in a bowl, add the white vinegar and warm water, and stir until you have a damp, grainy mixture.
3. Apply to the stains. Spread a small amount over the stuck-on grease, without covering electric heating elements, connections, fans, or other sensitive parts.
4. Let it sit for a few minutes. Between 30 and 45 minutes, although that time has not been scientifically validated for all surfaces or for any type of residue.
5. Scrub carefully. Use a nonabrasive sponge or a soft brush to help lift the grime. There is no need to apply excessive pressure.
6. Remove the residue. Wipe with a damp cloth several times until the mixture and loosened grease are gone. Dry thoroughly before using the oven again.

Why vinegar and salt can help loosen grime

The effect of this mixture comes from the combination of two different mechanisms: the chemical action of vinegar and the mechanical action of salt crystals.

Vinegar contains acetic acid. This compound is responsible for its acidity and can help remove certain mineral deposits and stuck-on residue.

Studies from the University of Georgia explain that acidic cleaners, such as vinegar, are useful for removing certain mineral deposits, while greasy dirt usually responds better to alkaline substances.

Coarse salt adds friction. Its crystals can help mechanically dislodge solid residue when the surface is scrubbed. That effect depends on the grain size, the pressure applied, and the durability of the material being cleaned.

In other words, the usefulness of the mixture is mainly tied to the combination of moisture, acidity, and friction

What precautions should you take before cleaning the oven

Although vinegar and salt are everyday ingredients, that does not mean any combination is safe for all surfaces.

Before applying the mixture, keep these recommendations in mind:

• Do not clean a hot oven. Wait for it to cool to avoid burns and allow safe handling.
• Avoid steel wool or metal scrubbers. Abrasive materials can scratch enamel and damage certain coatings.
• Do not apply the mixture to electrical components or heating elements. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid damage.
• Do not use it on delicate surfaces without checking compatibility. If in doubt, test it on an inconspicuous area, as long as the manual allows it.
• Remove all residue completely. Before cooking again, make sure there is no salt, vinegar, or remaining grime inside the oven.
• Do not mix vinegar with bleach. The combination can release chlorine gas, which is dangerous to health.

They are known as Akashinga, which means “the brave ones” in Shona, a Bantu language in the Niger-Congo family spoken mainly in Zimbabwe. This team of rangers is made up of women who receive training to patrol the bush, detect illegal activity and take part in the arrest of poachers.

Their work combines training, patrols and field operations in a job that can put them in dangerous situations. Behind this project is a story of overcoming hardship, but also of concrete results in the fight to protect Africa’s wildlife.

Who Are the Akashinga, the Women Protecting Animals in Africa

Akashinga is a women’s ranger program that began in 2017 in Zimbabwe’s Zambezi Valley, founded by Damien Mander, creator of the International Anti-Poaching Foundation (IAPF). The initiative aims to combine wildlife conservation with job opportunities for women from the region, and its first class included 16 women.

Many of the first applicants had experienced abuse, domestic violence, abandonment or hardship at home. For them, joining the team also meant getting a job, earning money to eat or send their children to school, and gaining independence.

How Akashinga Trains to Face Poachers and Make Arrests

The African rangers receive demanding training, modeled on special forces standards and training that includes rifle handling, terrain-recognition and surveillance techniques, physical training, self-defense and coordinated teamwork. The organization says its first members began with a selection course designed to assess their endurance and ability to work together.

But their work does not stop at patrolling protected areas; they also take part in operations to investigate illegal activity and arrest suspects, in coordination with authorities. During one operation, they entered a house where they found antelope skins and arrested a man suspected of ties to poaching.

Akashinga Operations: Hundreds of Arrests, Rescued Animals and Confrontations With Poachers

The results of their work also appear in the organization’s impact reports. According to the official 2021 report, Akashinga carried out 208 operations in the areas under its protection and contributed to 351 arrests. During that period, its teams seized 11 illegal weapons, recovered 202 elephant tusks, 32 pangolins, removed 259 animal snares and recovered hides from various species, including leopards, lions and cheetahs.

Akashinga’s 2023 impact report, published by the organization and hosted on Candid, recorded 875 patrols covering more than 10,000 kilometers and 319 arrests across the organization. That year, they recovered six live pangolins, which were moved for a safe return to their habitat.

Akashinga’s official website also says that, since the program began, elephant poaching has fallen by 90% in the areas where it operates. The result reflects the impact of the monitoring and conservation work carried out by the rangers to protect one of Africa’s most threatened species.

How long is a driver’s license suspended for alcohol

Section 322.2616 sets out two suspension periods for anyone under 21 who drives with an alcohol level of 0.02 or higher:

• First offense: a six-month suspension.
• Second offense: the driver can lose the privilege to drive for one year.

Subsection (2)(b)1.b. of the law states: “The person’s driving privilege is suspended for a period of 6 months for a first violation, or for a period of 1 year if the person’s driving privilege has been previously suspended”.

This provision also covers refusing to submit to a lawful breath test. In that case, the first refusal can result in a one-year suspension, while a second refusal can be extended to 18 months.

What happens if police stop someone under 21 with alcohol in their blood

Florida law - subsection (1)(b) of Section 322.2616- authorizes law enforcement officers to stop the driver when they have probable cause to believe a person under 21 is driving under the influence of alcohol or has some level of alcohol in their blood or breath.

If the result reaches or exceeds the 0.02 threshold, the officer must begin the administrative suspension of the driving privilege on behalf of the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.

The process includes two immediate steps: taking the driver’s license and issuing a notice of suspension. In addition, if the driver meets the legal requirements, they may receive a 10-day temporary driving permit. It should be noted that this document does not take effect automatically: 12 hours must pass from the time it is issued, and it expires at midnight on the 10th day after the date of issuance.

How to get your license back after a suspension

The law allows the driver to request an administrative review to challenge the suspension. To do so, they have 10 days from the date the notice is issued.

According to subsection (2)(b)3, the person may request a formal or informal review before the department, whose officials will examine the elements related to the suspension:

• In an informal review, the official reviews the documents submitted by the officer and the driver. The rules say neither one needs to be present.
• A formal review includes a hearing in which testimony, evidence, and witnesses may be presented. The driver also has the option of subpoenaing the officer involved in the case or the person who administered the alcohol test.

Keep in mind that requesting a review does not automatically stop the suspension.

The drill simulated the detection, tracking, interception, and handoff of an aircraft considered a “track of interest.” The scenario tested communication and information sharing between the two countries’ air forces.

What was the interception scenario like?

An American aircraft’s entry into Mexican territory was simulated, in coordination with the U.S. Northern Command, whose authorities reported the aircraft’s altitude, speed and distance. A Cessna Citation 501 Eagle II surveillance aircraft detected the King Air, and the T-6C+ tracked it toward Hermosillo.

About 30 nautical miles from that city, the aircraft changed course toward San Luis Rio Colorado. As it approached the Colorado River, and under the bilateral memorandum of understanding, the track was handed off. F-16C aircraft from the 138th Fighter Wing guided it until it landed in Twenty Nine Palms, California, while the T-6C+ returned to Mexico.

Who took part in Amalgam Eagle 2026?

This annual exercise seeks to improve operational compatibility between U.S. Northern Command, AFNORTH, NORAD and Mexico’s Defense Ministry. There was coordination with military air operations centers and with civilian agencies in both countries, including:

• the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA);
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP);
• Mexico’s Air Space Navigation Services (SENEAM).

Fifty-two Mexican personnel took part, and 13 crewed aircraft and two remotely piloted aircraft were used. Lt. Gen. Bradford Everman, commander of NORAD’s U.S. Continental Region, said, “Amalgam Eagle is a fundamental pillar of our security cooperation efforts in the theater.” The exercise also included a search-and-rescue operation.

Through a final rule published by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and carried out by USCIS, the automatic extension of up to 540 days that took effect when the renewal was filed for the employment authorization document (EAD) was eliminated. The change is significant for those who depend on that permit to work, because it affects the continuity of their authorization.

Confirmed by USCIS: Automatic Extension of Work Permits by Up to 540 Days Ends

Until now, when a person filed a timely renewal of their work permit, their authorization was automatically extended for up to 540 days while USCIS processed the case. That allowed them to keep working without interruption even if the document expired. Under the new rule, that automatic extension no longer applies: employment authorization will no longer be extended automatically simply because the renewal was filed.

The final rule was published on Oct. 14, 2026, and reaffirms, without changes, an interim rule that had been in effect since October 2025. In formal terms, it adds a provision stating that an EAD that is expired or about to expire will not be automatically extended by a filed renewal on or after Oct. 30, 2025, unless another law or an official notice says otherwise.

Simply filing the renewal no longer guarantees the ability to keep working while the case is being processed. If USCIS is delayed, there may be a period without work authorization.

What Renewing Workers Need to Do

The main recommendation in light of this change is to plan ahead. Some practical steps:

• File the renewal as early as possible within the USCIS window for doing so before the expiration date (generally up to 180 days in advance) to reduce the risk of losing authorization.
• Check the EAD expiration date and processing times well in advance to plan accordingly.
• Check whether you have another basis to work authorization that does not depend on the expired EAD.
• If there are questions about the category or the specific situation, consult an immigration attorney before the permit expires.
• For employers, it is advisable to keep a record of EAD expiration dates and consider the possible need to reverifiy employment authorization (Form I-9).

For people applying for permanent residence from within the United States, USCIS has instructed applicants in both family-sponsored and employment-based preference categories to use the Dates for Filing chart this month.

However, eligibility depends on the applicant’s category, country of chargeability, and priority date.

Who can file for a Green Card in November?

The bulletin also sets dates for employment-based Green Card applicants. In the Dates for Filing chart, the EB-1 category is current for most countries, including Mexico and the Philippines. For China and India, the filing date is July 1, 2024.

For EB-2 applicants, the filing date is March 15, 2026, for most countries, including Mexico and the Philippines. It is January 1, 2023, for China and January 15, 2015, for India. EB-3 applicants face different cut-off dates depending on their country of chargeability.

How can applicants check whether they qualify?

Applicants should first identify their immigration preference category and priority date, which is generally based on when the relevant petition was filed. They must then compare that date with the corresponding entry in the November Dates for Filing chart.

People applying for adjustment of status inside the United States should also review USCIS instructions before submitting Form I-485. Being eligible to file does not mean a Green Card is automatically approved; applicants must still meet the other legal requirements for permanent residence.

The announcement was made by Foreign Minister Roberto Velasco during his appearance before the Senate on October 14, where he explained that nearly 85% of bilateral trade currently moves through 56 bridges and crossings.

The plan includes new connections at different points along the border, along with technology to speed inspections and changes to operating hours at existing crossings.

What are the eight new border crossings Mexico is proposing with the United States?

According to information published by the agency EFE on October 14, the eight projects mentioned by the foreign minister are:

1. Mesa de Otay II-Otay Mesa East: will connect Tijuana, Baja California, with San Diego, California.
2. Agua Prieta II-Douglas II: will connect Sonora and Arizona.
3. Anapra-Sunland Park: will link the Anapra area in Chihuahua with New Mexico.
4. Acuña-Del Río II: refers to the connection between Ciudad Acuña, Coahuila, and Del Rio, Texas.
5. Puerto Verde: international crossing project in the Coahuila-Texas region.
6. Green Corridors: includes an elevated freight crossing between Nuevo León and Texas.
7. Nuevo Laredo IV-Laredo V: proposes a new connection between Tamaulipas and Texas.
8. Flor de Mayo: would connect Matamoros, Tamaulipas, with Brownsville, Texas.

Why does Mexico want more border crossings, and what would they be used for?

The main goal is to speed the movement of goods between the two countries. As the foreign minister explained, about 85% of bilateral trade moves through 56 bridges and border crossings, so expanding capacity would cut wait times and improve the logistics of trade.

The strategy also calls for extending operating hours, implementing joint cargo inspections, and adding technology that would allow vehicles to be checked without having to open them.

Another goal is to divert heavy freight traffic away from border cities to reduce truck traffic in urban areas.

What existing border projects will also be modernized?

In addition to pushing eight new crossings, Mexico also plans to upgrade infrastructure already in use. EFE reported that among the projects is the expansion of the Reynosa-Pharr international bridge, between Tamaulipas and Texas, whose binational inauguration was scheduled for November 2026.

The modernization is part of a strategy to increase cargo capacity and improve connectivity between the two countries.

As Mexico pushes new border crossings, a dispute emerged in Texas

After the trade project announcement, a territorial dispute emerged. Specifically, on October 29, Texas authorities announced that they recognized nine islands in the Rio Grande as state property, with a combined area of about 66 acres, and would allow law enforcement access to patrol those lands.

The decision prompted a response from Mexico’s Foreign Affairs Ministry (SRE): On October 31, the foreign ministry said no state government can unilaterally change international borders.

The agency noted that the 1970 Border Treaty establishes that the border on the Rio Grande follows the center of its normal channel and that the International Boundary and Water Commission (CILA) is the body authorized to determine which country each island belongs to.

The document must certify that the person was not in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) during the 21 days before travel.

The order was established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as part of preventive measures in response to the ebola outbreak. Anyone who does not present the certification and does not have an official exemption will not be allowed to board the plane, even if they have a passport, visa and other immigration documents in order.

What declaration all travelers will be required to provide starting Nov. 3

The new rule says each passenger must complete and sign a certification stating that they were not physically in the Democratic Republic of Congo during the 21 days before their flight.

The requirement applies to everyone traveling from any foreign country to the United States, including U.S. citizens, permanent residents with Green Cards and foreign nationals with tourist, student or work visas.

“This order applies to all persons boarding a flight to the United States from any foreign country, including U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals and lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders)”, the CDC said.

Making a stopover in the Democratic Republic of Congo also counts as being present in that territory. It does not matter whether the passenger stayed inside the airport or never went through immigration control: airside transit is also covered.

Therefore, anyone who has been in that country must remain outside its territory for 21 full days before boarding a flight to the U.S. The day of departure counts as day zero, and they may travel starting on day 22.

What happens if a passenger does not present the required declaration

The consequence is direct: airlines will have to deny boarding to anyone who has not completed the certification and does not have an authorized exemption.

The CDC warned: “Anyone who does not sign a sworn declaration [...] will be denied boarding on a flight to the United States”.

The declaration may be completed with a physical signature, a verified digital signature or an electronic system enabled by the airline during check-in. It may also be made verbally under the conditions set by health authorities.

Children under 18 are also included in the requirement, although their parents, legal guardians or authorized representatives may complete the certification on their behalf. In any case, there must be an individual record for each passenger.

Under Section 1001 of Title 18 of the U.S. Code, anyone who intentionally provides false information may face fines and up to prison sentences.

How long the measure will remain in effect

According to the notice published in the Federal Register, the revised order will remain in effect until 11:59 p.m. on Dec. 18, 2026, unless authorities decide to change or withdraw it earlier.

The CDC said the 21-day period reflects the maximum incubation period for Ebola. However, it also said that “the overall risk to the U.S. public and travelers remains low”.

“I spend about 85% of my time here, but I’ve never paid any rent to live in the city, because I house sit all year round,” she wrote in an essay for CNBC Make It.

From an office job to house-sitting

About four years ago, Parrish worked as a project manager at a real estate office in the San Francisco Bay Area. In 2022, she quit her job and spent two years traveling on her savings.

When the money started to run out, she looked for a cheaper way to keep going and discovered house-sitting: taking care of people’s homes and pets while they are away, usually in exchange for a place to stay.

Her first house sit, found through the site TrustedHousesitters, lasted three days and involved caring for one dog in San Francisco.

How does she live in New York City with just $800 a month?

About 80% of her house sits are unpaid and in exchange for housing. When she does charge, she asks for $50 to $100 a day. Her main expenses are travel between homes, a $19 phone plan, and about $75 a week in groceries. In total, she spends around $800 a month.

She also has a remote job as a patient support specialist for a telehealth company, which allows her to work from anywhere.

To date, she has completed close to 100 house sits in 22 cities, including New York, Los Angeles, and Philadelphia.

The hidden costs of her bohemian lifestyle

The arrangement is not for everyone. Parrish sometimes moves up to eight times a month, lives out of a suitcase, and spends hours planning where she will stay next. Last-minute cancellations happen, and the lifestyle can feel lonely at times.

“I love the freedom this lifestyle gives me, but it’s definitely not for everyone,” she wrote. “The biggest trade-off is the uncertainty and the need to be flexible.”

Parrish says she would like to have a place of her own one day, but she has no timeline yet. For now, she enjoys the trade-off. “It’s wild to me that something I started as a way to save money while traveling has turned into a lifestyle and career,” she wrote.

Drivers who are this age or older will no longer be able to renew their license as usual, and the term will be shorter

In Illinois, the requirements for renewing a license increase as the driver gets older. The current rules are as follows:

• Starting at age 79, when renewing, the driver must pass a vision test. If the driver has a traffic violation on their record, a written test is also required.
• From 81 to 86, renewal must be done in person every two years. In other words, the license has a shorter validity period than usual and can no longer be renewed in the simplest way, from a distance.
• From age 87 on, renewal is annual and includes both the vision test and the driving test.

What older drivers need to do

Starting at 81, renewal is done in person, so drivers must go to an Illinois Secretary of State office, usually by appointment. There, they take the required tests based on age: vision in all cases starting at 79, and driving starting at 87.

Because the validity period is shorter (two years between 81 and 86, and one year starting at 87), it is important to watch the expiration date so the license does not lapse.

The project, documented in videos on his YouTube Mini Construction channel, recreates on a small scale how a conventional hydroelectric facility works and shows how it can generate electricity to light a bulb and run a fan.

How did he build his own hydroelectric plant?

The operating principle is to channel water from a higher point to a turbine connected to a generator. To build a system like this, Chien-Tran showed that the first step is to choose a stream with the right flow and slope. After that, the work area is prepared and, when necessary, the water is temporarily diverted so work can be done on the channel.

The retaining structure can be built with bricks or stones, depending on the design and the materials available. The foundation must be set on a stable base, while the joints and sides need to be properly sealed to reduce leaks and prevent damage from water pressure.

How do the pipes and turbine work?

Once the structure is ready, a channel or pipe is installed to carry the water to the generation area. The difference in height between the inlet and the outlet makes it possible to harness the water’s potential energy and turn it into motion.

In a homemade microplant, the turbine can be made or adapted with metal parts and other water-resistant components. Its shaft is connected to an electric generator, which converts the spinning motion into electrical energy. The exact design, however, depends on the flow, the drop in elevation, and the power the system is meant to produce.

After assembly, the joints, any possible leaks, and the stability of the structure are checked. When the water is released toward the turbine, it is tested to see whether the mechanism turns and whether the generator can power a small electrical load.

What are the advantages of a home hydroelectric plant?

The project shows how a waterway can be turned into a renewable energy source through a small-scale installation. In places with the right conditions, microhydropower can help with self-consumption and reduce the need to rely exclusively on the conventional grid.

Still, reproducing the system requires assessing the flow, the drop in elevation, equipment safety, and any possible effects on the surrounding environment. Permits may also be required to work on a natural waterway.

The Social Security Administration imposes a 10% penalty for each full 12-month period of delay. The surcharge is added to the monthly Medicare Part B premium and can remain in place for as long as the person keeps that coverage.

However, not all beneficiaries are required to enroll when they turn 65. Some people may delay the process without paying a penalty, as long as they have qualifying employer health coverage.

The Medicare enrollment mistake that can raise health insurance costs for life

The mistake is missing Medicare Part B’s Initial Enrollment Period without signing up and without having health coverage based on a current job that allows the person to put off enrollment. This insurance, part of the federal program, covers doctor visits, outpatient services, preventive care and certain medical supplies.

That period starts three months before a person turns 65, includes the month of their birthday and ends three months later. In all, it gives people seven months to enroll, and those who cannot complete the process during that window and also do not qualify for an exception can face a penalty that is added to the monthly Part B premium.

It is worth noting that the penalty is not a one-time charge for being late, but rather a surcharge that stays in place while the person has Medicare Part B. That is why missing the deadline without checking whether an exception applies can lead to extra costs for many years, according to Medicare.

When Medicare costs go up for late enrollment

The late enrollment penalty for Medicare Part B is equal to an additional 10% of the standard monthly premium for each full 12-month period that the person could have enrolled but did not. The percentage builds based on the length of the delay and is added to the usual cost of coverage.

In 2026, the standard monthly premium for Medicare Part B is $202.90. For example, a person who waited two full years to enroll and did not qualify for a Special Enrollment Period must pay a 20% surcharge, equal to $40.58 more per month. That brings the premium to about $243.50 a month.

Who can delay Medicare enrollment without paying a penalty

Not everyone who turns 65 is required to enroll immediately in Medicare Part B, since people with group health insurance based on their current job, or their spouse’s current job, may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period and delay enrollment without paying a late penalty.

However, not every plan allows a person to delay enrollment, since COBRA coverage, retiree health plans and individual Marketplace plans are not considered current-employment-based coverage for this exception, Medicare says. That is why people with any of these plans should check their deadlines before putting off enrollment and avoid a penalty that can stay in place for as long as they are enrolled in Medicare Part B.

In April 2026, the aircraft took part in a series of tests at Edwards Air Force Base in California, where it completed 27 intercepts in eight flights controlled by artificial intelligence against a manned T-38 aircraft. The test showed that an autonomous system could process infrared sensor data and use it to guide the aircraft toward a target in real time.

The advance is part of broader research into the future of air combat, which involves developing systems that can take on certain maneuvers and tactical tasks and work alongside crewed aircraft.

What the X-62A fighter jet the United States adapted with artificial intelligence is like

The X-62A VISTA is a modified version of a two-seat F-16D, originally identified as the NF-16D, that the U.S. Air Force uses as an experimental platform. Its full name is Variable In-flight Simulation Test Aircraft, and its role is to allow researchers to test technologies and replicate the characteristics of other aircraft in flight.

The aircraft is operated by the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School, with the participation of companies such as Lockheed Martin Skunk Works and Calspan. Its architecture allows different software and hardware systems to be integrated to evaluate artificial intelligence and autonomy capabilities that researchers can test during live flights, under controlled conditions and with safety systems.

How the AI that detects and chases other aircraft to intercept them works

One of the most recent tests took place in April 2026, as part of the HAVE HEAT program. During the trial, the X-62A was fitted with Lockheed Martin’s Legion Pod, an infrared search and track (IRST) system capable of detecting and tracking other aircraft. The device transmitted real-time information on a target aircraft, which was used by an artificial intelligence agent to guide the experimental aircraft and carry out an intercept maneuver autonomously.

According to Lockheed Martin, the X-62A completed 27 AI-controlled intercepts in eight flights, with a T-38 as the target. The result showed the system could receive data from a sensor installed on the aircraft and use it to carry out an intercept maneuver.

What air combat maneuvers artificial intelligence has already been able to carry out

The X-62A also took part in earlier tests in DARPA’s Air Combat Evolution (ACE) program, led by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency. In 2023, testing began with algorithm flights capable of controlling the aircraft during close-range air combat maneuvers, known as dogfighting. In those tests, the modified aircraft faced a human-piloted F-16 in visual-range combat scenarios.

DARPA’s goal is to develop autonomous systems that can carry out certain tactical maneuvers and work with human pilots in air operations, but the research also aims to lay the groundwork for transferring these capabilities to future uncrewed aircraft. In this way, people would retain supervision and decision-making roles while AI systems could take on flight and maneuvering tasks.

According to the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), the measure applies when a driver is involved in a collision and does not have the coverage required under state law.

The agency says fault for the crash does not determine the suspension. The measure is tied to failing to meet the financial responsibility requirements for driving.

Why can a license be suspended for up to four years in California?

The DMV says drivers must have liability insurance or another form of financial responsibility allowed by law.

According to the official handbook, the minimum coverage must include:

• $30,000 for injury or death of one person.
• $60,000 for injury or death of more than one person.
• $15,000 for property damage.

When an accident occurs and the driver cannot prove the required coverage, the DMV may suspend the person’s driving privilege, regardless of who caused the crash.

The measure covers accidents that cause property damage of more than $1,000 or that leave people injured or dead. Drivers who receive a suspension notice can also request a hearing to show they had a valid form of financial responsibility.

How do you get your license back after a suspension for driving without insurance?

The DMV says drivers can get their license back during the last three years of the suspension period, as long as they submit a California insurance certificate, known as SR-22 or SR-1P.

They must also keep that certification in place for the three-year period set by the agency.

The employees now face layoffs after years of negotiations and temporary layoff filings (ERTE). Meanwhile, production at the plant will be moved to other company facilities in Poland, India, and Serbia. The city government has offered free assistance to workers to help them find other jobs.

Nidec Confirms Closure of Its Barcelona Plant After Nearly 30 Years

The decision to shut down the plant became known after a meeting held on October 16 between workers’ representatives, the mayor of Santa Perpètua de Mogoda, Juan Carlos Mingueza, and the councilor for Local Development, Business, and Employment, Laura Oliver. According to the city government on Oct. 27, 2026, Nidec management communicated its final decision.

The plant, located in the Can Vinyals industrial park, has been operating since 1998 and has about 100 employees. Many of them have spent virtually their entire working lives at the facility, so their age and professional experience could make it harder to find new jobs.

Laura Oliver described the impact of the decision on workers and said that “Nidec’s workforce is experiencing this closure with sadness, resilience, outrage, and a fighting spirit.”

The local government said it had tried to mediate in order to find alternatives that would allow industrial activity to continue. To that end, it arranged meetings between the company and the Catalonia regional government’s Department of Business and Labor to explore possible forms of support.

Workers Have Faced Seven ERTEs Since 2020, and Production Will Move Abroad

The closure comes after several years of labor difficulties. According to a city government report in April 2026, the plant had accumulated seven temporary layoff filings (ERTE) since 2020. Workers had spent six years trying to keep the operation going and were calling for an industrial plan that would guarantee the future of the facility.

In that context, workers began an indefinite strike on March 20, 2026. They were walking off the job for four hours per shift and gathering outside the plant between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.

The works council had put forward various proposals to secure a future industrial plan and job guarantees for the 100 employees. After months of negotiations, it managed to agree on a job guarantees plan, although the multinational’s final decision has changed the situation, and workers now face layoffs.

One of the main concerns is the transfer of activity to other facilities in the group. According to the city government, the workload that had been handled in Santa Perpètua will be shifted to Nidec plants in Poland, India, and Serbia.

Employees also defend the role the Catalan plant played in the development of motors for the automotive sector, both for the multinational’s European and Asian facilities.

City Government Offers Free Help to Find New Job Opportunities

In response to the permanent closure, the Santa Perpètua de Mogoda city government has made the free services of Local Development available to workers. The goal is for them to learn about the tools available to face their job search and find new professional opportunities.

The situation is especially difficult for those who have worked for the same company for decades and now have to re-enter the labor market. The local government has said that the age of part of the workforce could become an obstacle to getting another job.

The shutdown also marks a change for Nidec, a multinational specializing in the manufacture of electric motors. According to data published on its corporate website, the company has more than 100,000 employees, a presence in more than 40 countries and more than 350 group companies.

Nidec describes itself as the world’s No. 1 comprehensive motor manufacturer and says it works on products ranging from the smallest motors to the largest. It also says it seeks to strengthen its technical and competitive capabilities through innovation and mergers and acquisitions.

The closure in Santa Perpètua is therefore taking place amid a restructuring of the group’s industrial operations, while nearly 100 workers must confront the loss of their jobs and look for new work options.

The short answer is that the child can claim a share of the estate, but not automatically: first, they must prove paternity through one of the legally accepted avenues, and do so within certain deadlines.

What happens if an unrecognized child claims a share of the estate

In the United States, a child born outside marriage is not excluded from an inheritance for that reason alone. The law cannot simply bar a child because they were born outside a marriage; what it can do is require them to prove the relationship to the person they say was their father through certain procedures. The right to inherit exists, but it is conditioned on paternity being legally established.

That requirement carries particular weight when there is no will. If the person died without leaving a will, the distribution is governed by the state’s intestacy laws, which recognize children as heirs. To take part in that distribution, the unrecognized child must prove that they are indeed the child.

How paternity is proven

The methods accepted by law vary by state, but generally center on these avenues:

• A court order or judgment establishing paternity, usually issued while the father was alive.
• A written acknowledgment by the father, signed and filed in the manner required by law (for example, before the appropriate official).
• A legitimation process, such as one that can result from the parents’ later marriage.
• A DNA test, which in several states is accepted only in limited circumstances (for example, when the father died before the child’s birth or soon after).

Other evidence, such as the father being listed on the birth certificate, obituaries, insurance policies, tax returns or the fact that he treated the child as his own, can support the claim, but by themselves they usually are not enough. They serve as support for one of the main avenues, not as a substitute.

Deadlines: the detail that can cost someone the inheritance

Claims of this type are subject to short deadlines, tied to the opening of the estate and the period for filing claims. For example, in some states the claim must be filed with the estate’s representative within six months of the creditor notice being published.

Missing those deadlines can leave the child out of the inheritance even if the paternity evidence is strong. That is why, in a situation like this, moving quickly is crucial.

The break will give students a four-day school week, from Monday, Nov. 9, through Friday, Nov. 13, with Wednesday off.

Which states and districts will not have classes on Wednesday, Nov. 11

The break is included in the official academic calendars of three school systems:

• New York: New York City Public Schools (NYC Public Schools) said there will be no school on Wednesday, Nov. 11. The 2026-2027 calendar specifically lists “Veterans Day, schools closed.”
• Florida: The Palm Beach County School District confirmed the closure. Its calendar lists Nov. 11 as “Fall Holiday; No School & District Offices Closed.”
• New Mexico: Albuquerque Public Schools also set the closure of its schools. In its academic schedule, the date is listed as “Veterans Day — Schools closed.”

Why will there be no classes on Nov. 11

The closure is tied to the observance of Veterans Day, a federally recognized holiday observed every Nov. 11.

The U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) included the day in its official 2026 holiday calendar and listed it as “Wednesday, November 11 | Veterans Day.”

It is worth noting that while the date is recognized nationwide, each school district keeps its own rules for setting the academic calendar.

What other November days will have no classes?

The respective school calendars will have another major change in November for Thanksgiving Day, which will be celebrated on Thursday, Nov. 26.

The break periods will be:

• New York: schools will be closed Thursday, Nov. 26, and Friday, Nov. 27, for the Thanksgiving break.
• Palm Beach, Florida: There will be no classes for the entire week, from Monday, Nov. 23, through Friday, Nov. 27.
• Albuquerque, New Mexico: schools will suspend activities from Wednesday, Nov. 25, through Friday, Nov. 27.

What Veterans Day commemorates

Veterans Day is a national observance dedicated to honoring the people who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, including those who are still serving and those who have left military service.

Its origins are tied to the armistice that ended the fighting in World War I on Nov. 11, 1918.

The date was first known as Armistice Day, but in 1954, it was officially renamed Veterans Day to honor veterans of all the wars in which the United States took part.

Each year, ceremonies, tributes, and parades are held in cities across the country.

In detail, there will be three dates in November when basic education students will not have classes. Also included is the mandatory day off for workers in Mexico, as set out in the Federal Labor Law (LFT).

What days in November will there be no classes?

According to the SEP’s official calendar, November will be one of the months with the most school closures for preschool, elementary and secondary students.

The first break will be tied to Day of the Dead. The break began Friday, Oct. 29, because of the School Technical Council (CTE) meeting, in which teachers and administrators took part, and will run through Monday, Nov. 2.

Later, students will have another long weekend for the commemoration of Mexican Revolution Day. Although the holiday falls on Nov. 20, the official day off will move to Monday, Nov. 16, giving students three consecutive days without school activities.

Finally, there will also be no classes Friday, Nov. 27, when a new session of the School Technical Council meeting will take place, scheduled for the last Friday of each month.

Therefore, the no-class dates in November will be:

• Monday, Nov. 2: Day of the Dead.
• Monday, Nov. 16: day off for Mexican Revolution Day, commemorated Nov. 20.
• Friday, Nov. 27: School Technical Council meeting.

Details on the CTE in Mexico

The SEP website has the School Technical Council Itinerary available, material aimed at public basic education schools. The agency says these resources are designed to be used starting with the third regular session of the School Technical Council.

The content is divided according to the different educational levels and formats:

• Basic education
• Early childhood education
• Preschool
• Elementary school
• Secondary school
• Multigrade schools

All are part of the section called “Space for reflection and transformation of practice.”

The materials present different topics for analysis and, for each one, lay out a purpose and activities that begin with individual reflection and then are carried out collectively, along with questions intended to review and analyze teaching practices.

It is important to note that these are not assessments or documents teachers must turn in. Their purpose is to serve as work tools so members of each school can exchange ideas, reflect on their work and reach agreements.

Is Nov. 2 an official holiday in Mexico?

For students and basic education teachers, Nov. 2 is listed as a day when school activities are suspended because of the Day of the Dead observance.

However, this date is not one of the mandatory days off established by the Federal Labor Law. As a result, workers in the public and private sectors must report to work as usual, unless their workplace decides otherwise.

The requirement is not universal. According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the United States has agreements with certain countries that waive the additional six-month validity period. Travelers covered by these exemptions generally need a passport that remains valid for the entire period of their planned stay.

Therefore, the applicable rule also depends on the country that issued the passport and the circumstances of the trip.

How the six-month passport validity rule works

The general rule requires visitors subject to the requirement to hold a passport valid for six months beyond the date they intend to leave the United States.

For example, a traveler planning to depart the U.S. on December 15 may generally need a passport valid through June 15 of the following year if the full six-month requirement applies.

However, CBP recognizes exceptions for nationals of countries covered by agreements with the United States. Under these arrangements, the passport must remain valid throughout the intended visit, but the additional six months are not required.

Travelers should check the current requirements before departure rather than assume the rule applies identically to every nationality.

Which travelers are exempt from the six-month rule?

The United States maintains a list of countries whose citizens are exempt from the additional six-month validity requirement. The exemption means that their passports generally need to remain valid for the intended stay, rather than for six additional months afterward.

Countries included in the exemption list include Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Peru and the United Kingdom, among others. The list is subject to official guidance and should be checked before travel.

The exemption does not mean that a passport can be expired. Travelers must still have a valid travel document for their intended stay and meet other applicable entry requirements.

Visitors may also need a valid visa or an approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), depending on their nationality and eligibility for the Visa Waiver Program.

Can airlines deny boarding at Miami, New York, Orlando or Chicago airports?

Airlines check travel documents before international departures and may refuse boarding if a passenger does not meet the destination’s entry requirements. The U.S. Department of State also warns that some airlines do not allow passengers to board when their passports fail to meet a destination’s validity rules.

The relevant question is whether the passenger meets the requirements for the specific journey. For travelers bound for the United States, nationality-based exemptions can make a difference. For passengers connecting through another country or continuing to a different destination, that country may impose its own passport validity requirements.

Travelers should confirm the rules with their airline and consult official government guidance before leaving for the airport.

What travelers should check before flying to the United States

Before an international trip, passengers should review three essential details:

• Passport expiration date: Confirm that the passport will remain valid for the required period.
• Country-specific exemptions: Check whether the country that issued the passport is exempt from the additional six-month requirement.
• Other travel documents: Verify visa requirements or ESTA authorization, when applicable, and any transit-country rules.

The official CBP website explains the six-month rule and its exceptions. Travelers can also consult the U.S. Department of State’s travel guidance and contact their airline to confirm the documentation needed for their itinerary.

The benefit is intended for foreign nationals in specific immigration categories, including asylum seekers who meet the required deadlines, beneficiaries of Temporary Protected Status (TPS), certain international students and people awaiting a decision on their application for permanent residence.

To qualify for the permit, applicants must complete all steps in the process, including meeting USCIS eligibility requirements and submitting the required documentation, among others.

Who Can Get Work Authorization in the United States Through Form I-765

USCIS recognizes several categories of foreign nationals who may apply for an Employment Authorization Document. They include:

• Refugees: people whom the U.S. has granted this immigration status.
• Asylees: foreign nationals whose asylum applications were approved.
• Asylum applicants: people with a pending case who meet the deadlines and conditions for requesting work authorization.
• TPS beneficiaries: foreign nationals who have been granted Temporary Protected Status or who qualify to apply for it and request work authorization.
• People with a pending adjustment of status: certain immigrants who filed Form I-485 to apply for permanent residence.
• Foreign students on F-1 visas: those who qualify to work through practical training programs, such as OPT or STEM OPT.
• Current DACA recipients: people who qualify to renew their work authorization through the proper process.

There are also other categories, such as certain spouses of foreign workers and relatives of people with special visas. It is important to note that refugees and people who have already been granted asylum are authorized to work based on their immigration status, with the EAD card serving as proof of that authorization.

However, for other categories, approval is required before they can start working. Asylum applicants may file Form I-765 after 150 days have passed since they submitted their asylum application. To receive authorization, they must wait at least 180 days.

What Requirements and Documents Immigrants Must Submit to Apply for Work Authorization

Foreign nationals who want work authorization must show that they belong to one of the USCIS-approved categories. To do so, they must submit the form I-765 along with proof of their immigration status.

The documents that may be requested include:

• Identification document: copy of a passport, travel document or other photo ID.
• U.S. entry record: copy of Form I-94, where applicable.
• Previous work permit: copy of the EAD card, if the person has already received one.
• Photographs: two recent passport-style photos, when required.
• Proof of eligibility: documents showing immigration status, such as an asylum approval, TPS proof or evidence that a permanent residence application is pending.
• Academic documents: for certain foreign students, Form I-20 signed by the designated school official (DSO).

The required documents depend on the eligibility category, and if the supporting documents are in another language, they must be accompanied by a full English translation and a translator’s certification confirming their accuracy.

It is the last formal warning before a levy, and the agency itself says anyone who receives it should get in touch right away.

A lien and a levy are not the same thing

The terms are often mixed up. A lien is a legal claim on your property that secures the debt. A levy goes a step further: the IRS actually takes the property to collect. It can reach:

• Wages, which are withheld on an ongoing basis, though a portion is protected.
• Money in bank accounts and other financial accounts.
• Retirement accounts, dividends, rental income, commissions and accounts receivable.
• Assets the agency can seize and sell, such as your car, a boat or a home.

The path the IRS must follow first

A levy doesn’t come out of nowhere. Generally, the agency acts only when four conditions are met:

1. It assessed the tax and sent you a formal bill for the debt.
2. You neglected or refused to pay.
3. It sent you the Final Notice of Intent to Levy at least 30 days before acting. The notice can be handed to you, left at your home or usual place of business, or sent by certified mail to your last known address.
4. It notified you that it may contact third parties about determining or collecting your tax debt.

There is one exception: if the levy targets your state tax refund, the notice with the right to a hearing can arrive after the action.

What happens when the levy reaches your bank

Once the IRS serves a levy on a financial institution, the funds in the account are held, and after 21 days they are sent to the agency. That gap is short but useful. It’s the window in which you can still object, which is why acting before the order reaches your bank matters.

What to do if you get the notice

First, don’t leave it in a drawer. IRS guidance points to several routes:

• Contact the agency promptly, as the notice itself instructs.
• Arrange a settlement, such as a payment plan, which is the most common way to avoid a levy.
• Exercise the hearing right the letter describes, before the IRS Independent Office of Appeals.
• If a levy has already been issued, ask for its release. It can be lifted if it causes immediate economic hardship or was issued in error.
• Turn to the Taxpayer Advocate Service or to Publication 594 on the collection process.

The takeaway is simple: that notice is an invitation to negotiate while there is still time. If the letter arrives, the 30-day clock is already running.

According to the company in an official statement published on Oct. 30, the move will affect its industrial and distribution operations in Iowa, Illinois and Kansas.

With this new round of hiring, John Deere will have made about 1,000 recall offers since 2024, although some workers at its facilities still remain out of work.

Where will John Deere hire more than 400 workers in the U.S.?

The company said the new hires will be spread across different factories and distribution centers in three states.

The facilities John Deere named are:

• Illinois: Harvester Works in East Moline, Seeding and Cylinder Works in Moline, and the North American Parts Distribution Center in Milan.
• Iowa: Davenport Works, Dubuque Works and Ottumwa Works.
• Kansas: Coffeyville Works.

The company did not detail how many positions will go to each site or specify salaries, hiring requirements or the opening dates for each job.

However, it confirmed that it expects to bring on more than 400 people over the next few months as part of an expansion of its workforce.

What will happen to the laid-off John Deere workers?

In addition to the new hires, the company said it will call back more than 275 workers from its Waterloo, Iowa, operations who had been affected by earlier layoffs.

John Deere said that with this move, all employees who remained laid off in Waterloo, Quad Cities, Ottumwa and Dubuque have now been called back to work.

However, about 125 workers in the Des Moines area of Iowa remain laid off, so the employment recovery has not yet reached all facilities.

The company said the staffing increase is intended to strengthen its ability to meet customer needs in different operating scenarios, including future labor negotiations.

What does spraying vinegar where ants pass does

Spraying vinegar where ants pass helps erase the trail they follow and drive them away from that area. It is not about killing them, but about breaking their “route”: by cleaning the surface they travel across, ants lose the signal that guides them and stop showing up along that path, at least for a while. It is especially useful for cutting off those lines that come in through a window or a crack and head straight for the food.

Ants do not wander aimlessly: when one finds food, it leaves a chemical trail on the way back, a pheromone that the others follow, which explains why a whole line suddenly appears moving back and forth along the same spot. That trail is literally a scent message on the floor.

Vinegar acts directly on that trail. By spraying it and wiping the path the ants use, the pheromone they left is cleaned away and masked, so the ones coming behind them no longer find the signal to follow. The acidity and strong smell of vinegar help cover that chemical trail.

In fact, ant-control guides recommend washing the path they travel as a first step to remove the scent they use to navigate: vinegar is one home way to do it. On top of that, the trail itself weakens over time, so cleaning it speeds up the ants losing the route.

Step by step: how to make the spray

The mix is very simple:

• Mix white vinegar and water in equal parts in a spray bottle (pure vinegar can be used for a stronger effect).
• Spray directly on the line of ants and, above all, along the entire path they travel.
• Wipe with a cloth or paper towel to pick up the ants and clean the surface so the trail is left behind.
• Apply it also at entry points, cracks, window frames and baseboards, wherever they come in.
• Repeat every time they reappear, until they stop using that route.

Why it’s recommended

The appeal of this trick is clear: it is homemade, cheap, made with a product almost everyone has and avoids spraying insecticides on kitchen surfaces where food is handled. Used wisely, to cut off trails and deter ants, and paired with prevention, it is a practical, low-cost tool for everyday use.

Trump renewed the offer in a Truth Social video Oct. 3. He returned to it at an Oct. 27 rally in Texas, adding that recipients would have to spend the money in the U.S.

The pledge arrives as two smaller federal payments are already in motion. One is a one-time $90 payment for 20.8 million Medicare Part B enrollees, scheduled for October. The other is a $500 check for about 950,000 people who paid full price for Affordable Care Act coverage on HealthCare.gov.

How does Trump’s $5,000 promise compare with the 3 COVID checks?

During the pandemic, Congress approved three rounds of direct payments, officially called Economic Impact Payments. Two were signed during Trump’s first term: up to $1,200 in March 2020 and up to $600 in December 2020. The third, up to $1,400, came in March 2021 under President Joe Biden.

Combined, those checks came to as much as $3,200 per eligible adult, with smaller amounts for people above certain income limits. Trump’s proposal would be $1,800 more than that maximum in a single payment.

Sending $5,000 to every adult citizen would cost roughly $1.2 trillion.

What’s the real catch in Trump’s $5,000 promise?

A Republican win on Tuesday wouldn’t send anyone a check. The Constitution gives Congress control of federal spending. The House and Senate would have to pass a law authorizing the payments, and the president would have to sign it.

That’s how the pandemic checks worked: each round was written into legislation before any money went out. Trump hasn’t said who would authorize the $5,000 payments or how they would be paid for.

A Republican majority wouldn’t guarantee the votes. Some GOP lawmakers have raised concerns about the deficit and inflation. Rep. David Schweikert, R-Ariz., told reporters in September he would fight the plan with “everything of my heart and soul,” warning it could drive up interest rates.

Democrats oppose it too. Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., called it a “political bribe” in a Sept. 10 interview. Some economists have warned that a payment this size could add to inflation.

Applicants have until November 9 to take advantage of a temporary grace period that allows USCIS to accept applications sent to previous filing addresses. After that date, immigrants must follow the updated instructions to avoid potential processing delays.

Where should immigrants send Form I-485?

The correct mailing address depends on an applicant’s eligibility category and the reason for applying for a Green Card. USCIS directs applicants to its official Direct Filing Addresses for Form I-485 page to determine where to send their paperwork.

For example, family-based applications may need to go to different USCIS lockboxes depending on the applicant’s state of residence. Other categories, including employment-based applications and applications based on asylum or refugee status, have their own filing instructions.

Applicants should check the current requirements before mailing their forms. Sending an application to the wrong address could delay processing.

What happens if applicants use an old mailing address?

USCIS established a 30-day grace period for the change. The agency will accept Form I-485 applications postmarked on or before November 9, 2026, even if they are sent to a previous filing address.

After the grace period ends, applicants should use the updated address listed on the agency’s website. Checking the instructions before sending the application can help prevent unnecessary delays.

USCIS also reminds applicants to use the current version of the form. The agency published a revised edition of Form I-485 dated September 18, 2026, to align with its final rule on the public charge ground of inadmissibility. There is no grace period for this edition change, and applicants should ensure that every page of their application comes from the same accepted edition.

Applicants can find the latest form, filing instructions, and mailing addresses on the official USCIS website.

The United States blocks standard renewal for citizens with these passports

Passport renewal by mail is done with Form DS-82, which lets applicants send in the expired passport and supporting documents without appearing in person. To use that option, several requirements must be met, including that the passport to be renewed was issued within the last 15 years. If that period has passed, meaning the document was issued 15 years ago or more, it cannot be renewed by mail.

It is important to note that adult passports are valid for 10 years. So a passport issued 15 years ago is not only expired: it has been out of date for several years, and that gap in time is precisely what rules out the simplified renewal process.

What to do in that case

When a passport does not qualify for renewal by mail, the process must be completed in person using Form DS-11, the same form used by first-time passport applicants. In general, the process involves:

• Complete Form DS-11 (do not sign it until instructed by the official).
• Go to a passport acceptance facility: many post offices (USPS), libraries, or courthouses serve in that role, or to a passport agency, usually by appointment.
• Bring proof of U.S. citizenship (such as a birth certificate or previous passport), a photo ID, and a photocopy of it.
• Provide a recent photo that meets the official requirements.
• Pay the applicable fees for the process.

The other candidate, retired teacher Daniel J. Sullivan Jr., is under state and federal investigation. A New York Times report alleged that people linked to Peltola’s campaign recruited him to split the senator’s support, which Peltola and Daniel J. Sullivan both deny.

On Sunday, a federal judge dismissed a Justice Department lawsuit that tried to stop Alaska from certifying, or making official, the result if the senator loses. The department is appealing.

Who is the second Dan Sullivan on Alaska’s ballot?

Daniel J. Sullivan is a retired teacher and musician from Petersburg, a small Alaska fishing town reachable only by air or water. On the ballot, the senator appears as Dan S. Sullivan, labeled as the incumbent, and the newcomer as Daniel J. Sullivan Jr.

State election officials removed him from the ballot earlier this year, but the Alaska Supreme Court ruled in June that they had overstepped and put him back on.

The Times reported that people tied to Peltola’s campaign and the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, which works to elect Democrats to the Senate, tried to recruit him as a spoiler, a candidate meant to draw votes away from a rival. Peltola’s former campaign manager backed that account after being fired, then retracted it.

The committee also denies any involvement. At an Anchorage rally Friday, Peltola told volunteers, “I know I can beat Dan Sullivan. I do not need any help winning this race.”

Could a second Dan Sullivan cost Republicans the US Senate?

A party needs 51 of the Senate’s 100 seats for a majority. RealClearPolitics counts 47 seats as safe or leaning Democratic and 45 as safe or leaning Republican, with eight toss-ups that either party could win. Democrats would need four of those eight, and seven of them, including Alaska, are held by Republicans.

Republicans argue the shared name could lead some of the senator’s supporters to mark the wrong Sullivan. President Donald Trump called it “voter fraud at the highest level” on Saturday.

The race is close either way. A New York Times/Siena poll of 610 likely voters, conducted Oct. 23–30, had Peltola ahead 48% to 46%, within the margin of error of plus or minus 4.8 percentage points. She has also led most polls since early this year, well before the recruitment report came out.

Alaska also uses ranked choice voting, in which voters list candidates in order of preference. If no one wins a majority, the last-place finisher is dropped and those ballots go to each voter’s next choice, so a voter unsure which Sullivan is which can rank both.

Why is the FBI knocking on doors in the Alaska Senate race?

U.S. Attorney Michael Heyman said federal investigators have been looking into the candidacy for months and sent significantly more agents to Alaska after the Times report.

Agents have contacted Daniel J. Sullivan’s donors in at least two remote Alaska towns and in Massachusetts, asking whether they knew which Sullivan they were giving money to. Donors who spoke publicly said they did. One of them, Charles Flint of Petersburg, gave $500 and told The Associated Press he plans to rank Peltola first and Daniel J. Sullivan second.

As part of its lawsuit, which Trump said he personally ordered, the Justice Department also asked the court to set aside some ballots for investigation. The judge refused, ruling there was no way to tell which Sullivan a voter meant without breaking ballot secrecy.

Republican Gov. Mike Dunleavy has also ordered a state investigation.

According to the University of Georgia, the method involves closing the refrigerator door on a bill and checking how easily it can be pulled out.

What is the purpose of putting a $1 bill between the door and the refrigerator?

The goal of this test is to check the condition of the rubber seal around the door. When it is working properly, the gasket helps keep cold air inside the refrigerator.

The University of Georgia also recommends cleaning refrigerator gaskets with a mixture of one tablespoon of baking soda and about one liter of warm water. To do this, you can use an old toothbrush and gently scrub the door gaskets.

Then, rinse with clean water and remove all traces of the solution before checking whether the door closes properly.

To carry out the procedure, follow these steps:

1. Place a bill between the refrigerator frame and the door.
2. Close the door with the bill partially trapped.
3. Gently pull on the bill to see whether there is resistance.
4. Repeat the test at different points along the door edge.

If the bill slides out easily, the seal could be worn or not fitting properly.

What problem can this refrigerator trick detect?

A worn gasket can let cold air escape and warmer room air enter. That can force the refrigerator to work harder to maintain its internal temperature.

A poor seal can also affect the appliance’s energy efficiency and make it harder to properly store food.

The bill test can identify a possible sealing problem, but it does not by itself determine the cause of the problem.

If you find that the door is not closing properly, it is a good idea to check whether the gasket is dirty, warped or damaged and consult the manufacturer’s recommendations before replacing it.

Under the policy, filing a renewal application no longer automatically allows eligible immigrants to keep working after their current Employment Authorization Document expires.

Applicants must receive approval from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services before continuing to work if their existing authorization expires while the renewal is pending.

Who is affected by the new work permit rule?

The restriction applies to certain categories of immigrants who renew their Employment Authorization Documents using Form I-765. Previously, eligible applicants could receive an automatic extension of up to 540 days while USCIS reviewed their renewal requests.

The change applies to renewal applications properly filed on or after October 30, 2025. Applications received before that date may still qualify for automatic extensions under the previous rules, provided they meet the eligibility requirements.

This distinction is important because the rule does not cancel existing work permits or prevent immigrants from applying for renewals. Instead, it removes the automatic extension that previously allowed certain applicants to continue working while waiting for USCIS to make a decision.

What happens if a work permit expires before USCIS approves the renewal?

Immigrants whose EADs expire while their renewal applications are still pending generally must stop working until USCIS approves the new authorization, unless they qualify for an exception. A receipt notice confirming that the agency received Form I-765 is no longer enough to extend their work authorization automatically.

However, the rule preserves certain exceptions. These include extensions required by law or provided through specific Federal Register notices, such as some employment documents connected to Temporary Protected Status (TPS). Automatic extensions granted before October 30, 2025, are also unaffected.

USCIS recommends filing Form I-765 up to 180 days before the current work permit expires. Applying early can give the agency more time to process the request, although it does not guarantee approval before the expiration date.

The company responsible for the vessel announced it was suspending operations and forced travelers to disembark. The situation was especially difficult for those who had sold their homes and other belongings to settle on the ship permanently.

What happened to the cruise ship that left more than 200 passengers stranded in Cambodia?

A total of 203 passengers from the Americas, Europe and Australia were stranded in the Cambodian city of Sihanoukville after the MV Odyssey cruise ship unexpectedly cut short its journey.

According to EFE, the U.S. company Ville Vie Residences announced on Tuesday, October 27, that it was suspending operations of the vessel, which was sailing under the Bahamas flag. Passengers were notified just seven hours before they had to leave the ship.

The cruise ship had previously visited Thailand and was scheduled to continue on to Vietnam.

Why had the passengers sold their homes to live on the cruise ship?

Unlike traditional vacation cruises, the MV Odyssey offered a long-term live-at-sea model that allowed passengers to live on board while traveling through different countries.

Through Ville Vie Residences, those interested could buy long-term use rights to the cabins and turn the ship into their personal residence.

Why did the company decide to suspend the cruise ship’s operations?

Ville Vie Residences explained that the decision was tied to the sharp increase in fuel costs in the Asian regions where the ship was operating.

According to the company statement, monthly fuel costs per cabin had risen sharply in recent months:

• Historical average cost: $1,800 per month per cabin.
• Cost recorded in recent months: up to $8,000 per month per cabin.

What will happen to the passengers stranded in Cambodia?

After disembarking, some passengers decided to leave Cambodia by air, while others remained in the city awaiting news about the future of the vessel.

The company said it was arranging temporary lodging and assistance for those affected. However, it did not commit to paying for international return flights to their home countries.

Ville Vie Residences CEO Mikael Petterson told CBS News that the company planned to seek Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection under U.S. law, a process that allows it to try to reorganize its debts and operations.

Likewise, Cambodian authorities said the ship was scheduled to refuel and leave the country on Saturday, October 31, although it has not been confirmed that passengers will be able to resume their trip.

His presidency was marked by momentous decisions and speeches that left a lasting mark on American politics. Among his most famous statements is a reflection he made during his inauguration that has resonated across generations.

The January 20, 1961, inaugural address helps reconstruct the context and understand the meaning of one of the most iconic statements of his career.

When and why John F. Kennedy said, “Ask not what your country can do for you. Ask what you can do for your country”

John F. Kennedy delivered this famous line on January 20, 1961, during his inaugural address as president of the United States. The ceremony took place in Washington, D.C., in front of the Capitol and marked the start of his term as the country’s 35th president.

According to the U.S. National Archives (Nacional Archives and Records Administration), Kennedy wanted his speech to be short, clear, and free of partisan references, with special attention to foreign policy.

The agency explains that the president called on citizens to take part in public service and confront problems such as tyranny, poverty, disease, and war.

The international context helps explain why he chose that message because in 1961, the United States and the Soviet Union were in the Cold War, a political, ideological, and military conflict that shaped international relations. In his speech, Kennedy addressed both his fellow Americans and other countries and called for renewed efforts to preserve freedom, avoid war, and promote cooperation among nations.

What John F. Kennedy’s quote means

With this statement, Kennedy proposed changing the way people understood the relationship between citizens and their country. Instead of focusing only on the benefits, rights, or opportunities the government could offer, he also urged people to think about their individual responsibilities and the actions each person could take to contribute to the common good.

The meaning of his words becomes clearer when reading the full closing of the speech. The former president did not limit his message to Americans because immediately afterward, he turned to people around the world and asked them to think about what they could do together for human freedom, expanding his call from national commitment to international cooperation.

That is how the transcript preserved by the U.S. National Archives records it.

In the case of the SBA, the measure can apply to people who owe eligible agency loans and are not meeting their payment obligations. However, not all past-due loans are automatically subject to garnishment, since the debt must meet the requirements of the administrative process.

Before the withholding begins, the person must receive written notice with information about the debt and their rights. Available options include challenging the amount claimed, requesting a hearing or seeking a payment agreement acceptable to the agency, although requesting a hearing does not guarantee the debt will be canceled or that collection will be suspended in all cases.

What federal debt can trigger up to 15% wage garnishment without a court order

Administrative garnishment can be used to collect a past-due non-tax federal debt, such as an eligible debt tied to an SBA loan. The agency can order the employer to withhold part of the employee’s disposable pay and apply it to the debt, without first having to obtain a court order. The authority is set out in federal law and in the rules governing collection of these debts.

The general limit is up to 15% of disposable pay, which does not necessarily equal gross pay. To calculate it, income is measured after certain deductions such as taxes, health insurance premiums and certain mandatory retirement contributions. The agency must send written notice at least 30 days before starting the process, stating the nature and amount of the debt, informing the person that it seeks to collect it through wage withholding and explaining the person’s rights.

How to request a hearing to challenge wage garnishment

People who receive notice may request a hearing in writing if they believe they do not owe the debt, disagree with the amount claimed or challenge the proposed payment terms because of financial hardship.

If the process is handled by the Treasury Department or a collection agency acting on its behalf, the person must follow the instructions in the notice they received. To have the hearing before the withholding order is sent to the employer, the request must be filed within 15 business days after the notice is sent. Otherwise, a hearing can still be held, but the garnishment process could move forward while it is pending.

What SBA form allows you to request a hearing to challenge the debt

When the SBA itself starts the process through its National Disaster Loan Resolution Center, it has a specific form called the AWG Hearing Request Form. That document allows the user to request a hearing to challenge the existence or amount of the debt, or the payment terms in permitted cases. However, the SBA says its form should not be used for loans whose collection is handled by Treasury, since in those cases the instructions in the relevant notice must be followed.

Requesting a hearing does not guarantee that the debt will be eliminated or that wage withholding will be stopped for good. The outcome will depend on the arguments, the documentation submitted and the rules that apply to the case.

The prize was from the Aug. 8, 2026 drawing, but the winner had kept the ticket in his wallet for nearly two months without knowing it was worth $1 million.

How did he discover he had won $1 million in Powerball?

Vander Lugt went to buy a soda, but when he checked his money, he realized he didn’t have enough to pay for it. He then remembered he had several lottery tickets in his wallet and decided to see whether any of them had won.

A store employee scanned the tickets, and one of them said he needed to contact the Michigan Lottery to claim a prize.

When he checked the numbers, the man discovered he had matched all five white balls in the Powerball drawing on Aug. 8, which earned him a $1 million prize.

The surprise was even greater because the ticket had been sitting in his wallet for weeks without its owner knowing how much it was worth.

What will he do with the $1 million he won in the lottery?

After confirming his win, Vander Lugt went to the Michigan Lottery to claim his prize.

The winner said he plans to use part of the money to pay off the mortgage on his home and invest the rest.

Among them is payment of the Inheritance and Gift Tax, a levy whose filing and payment deadline is set by Spanish law.

Unlike in the United States, where inheritance rules are set mainly by each state and only five states charge an inheritance tax, in Spain the Inheritance and Gift Tax is governed by a national law that applies across the country.

How Much Time Heirs Have to File and Pay the Tax

Article 67 of the Inheritance and Gift Tax Regulations says heirs in Spain have six months, counted from the day of death, to file the corresponding return or self-assessment.

This deadline covers both the filing of the paperwork and payment of the amount due. Tax collection is delegated to the autonomous communities, so heirs must check the procedures and forms of the relevant tax authority.

How to Request Six More Months to Settle the Estate

The deadline can be extended by another six months by filing an extension request. To obtain it, heirs, executors, or estate administrators must submit it within the first five months after the death.

Article 68 of the regulations says the request must be accompanied by the death certificate and include information on the heirs, their relationship to the deceased, the status and approximate value of the assets, and the reasons for requesting the extension.

If a month passes after filing without the government issuing a decision, the extension is considered granted. However, the extension carries late-payment interest, calculated from the day after the initial six-month deadline expires until the date the return is filed or payment is made.

What Happens if Heirs Pay the Tax After the Deadline

If beneficiaries file the self-assessment after the six months have passed and have not requested an extension, they may face late-filing surcharges and late-payment interest, depending on the circumstances.

Article 27 of the General Tax Law governs surcharges for late returns filed without prior notice from the tax authorities. That is why it is important to meet the deadlines or request an extension before the fifth month after the death ends.

How Spain Calculates Inheritance and Gift Tax

The amount each heir must pay is not fixed. It is calculated based on the value of the assets and rights they receive, the tax reductions they qualify for and the current tax breaks in their autonomous community. Law 29/1987, on Inheritance and Gift Tax, sets out the general rules for determining the tax bill. The calculation is made in the following steps:

1. Determine the taxable base

Add up the value of the assets and rights each heir receives, including any life insurance proceeds they are entitled to. Deduct allowable charges and debts. For real estate, as a general rule, the cadastral reference value is used unless the declared value is higher.

2. Apply tax reductions

Statutory and regional reductions that apply are deducted from the taxable base. They may depend on the relationship to the deceased, the heir’s disability, or the type of asset received, among other factors.

3. Get the taxable amount

This is the result of subtracting the applicable reductions from the taxable base. The full tax due is calculated on this amount.

4. Apply the applicable rate

The tax rate set by state or regional rules is applied to the taxable amount. The rate is progressive, so the percentage rises as the value brackets increase.

5. Calculate the tax liability

A multiplier is applied to the full tax due, based on the heir’s kinship group and existing wealth.

6. Subtract tax breaks and deductions

Finally, regional tax breaks and any applicable deductions are subtracted. The result is the amount the heir must pay.

Record rainfall, helped by the El Niño climate phenomenon, allowed hundreds of native species to sprout from the barren ground, the EFE news agency reported Sunday.

According to the National Forestry Corporation (CONAF), the flowers are covering about 17,000 square kilometers this year, an area equal to 23% of the Atacama region.

El Niño brought record rain to the planet’s driest desert

The Atacama Desert stretches for about 1,600 kilometers along Chile’s northern coast, between the Pacific Ocean and the Andes mountains. In this area, average annual rainfall without El Nino’s influence is just 2 millimeters of water.

However, between July and September, extraordinary rains were recorded in different places. One of the most notable cases was Vallenar, where rainfall reached 183.5 millimeters.

El Nino occurs when the surface waters of the central and eastern Pacific Ocean undergo unusual warming. This shift changes weather patterns in different parts of the world and can trigger extreme weather events.

The storms also had negative consequences in northern Chile, where flooding and mudslides left dozens of homes damaged.

More than 200 native species cover Atacama’s ground with flowers

The bloom turned the desert’s reddish, rocky landscape into a natural spectacle. More than 200 native species sprouted thanks to the rainfall, including añañuca, lion’s claw, guanaco foot, and vulture flower.

The phenomenon happens because seeds, bulbs, and rhizomes remain under the sand for much of the year, dormant, waiting for the right conditions to germinate.

When winter rains arrive, the moisture allows these species to begin growing and blooming. According to CONAF, the area covered this year reaches about 17,000 square kilometers, making this season one of the largest episodes in recent decades.

When will the flowers in the Atacama Desert disappear?

The natural spectacle lasts only a limited time. Most of the flowers will disappear during November, although some more drought-resistant species can last until January.

The bloom is also raising expectations for Chile’s tourism sector. Authorities expect the season to end with record numbers, driven by thousands of visitors traveling from across the country to see the flowering desert.

It is one of Chile’s most striking natural phenomena, temporarily turning one of the driest places on Earth into a landscape covered in color.

Although its layout is different from the usual one, it does not change traffic rules: drivers must go when the green light comes on and stop when the red appears.

Where the traffic light is with green on top and red on the bottom

The inverted traffic light is in the Tipperary Hill neighborhood, in the west side of Syracuse, in the state of New York. It is at the intersection of Tompkins Street, Milton Avenue and Burnet Park Drive, and it has become one of the most recognized symbols of the city’s Irish heritage.

The signal is known as Green Over Red and is often presented as one of the most unusual traffic lights in the U.S. Its arrangement breaks with the standard setup, in which the red light is on top and the green light is below.

Syracuse’s municipal rules acknowledge this quirk. In its Traffic Code, section 15-95 explicitly identifies the Tipperary Hill intersection and states that there the green light must be on top and the red light below.

It is worth noting that the traffic light is also part of the neighborhood’s cultural identity. Tipperary Hill is named after County Tipperary in Ireland and retains an important historical connection to the immigrant families who settled in this part of Syracuse during the 19th century.

Why the traffic light has green on top

The explanation is tied to the history of Irish immigration in the U.S. and to the meaning neighborhood residents attached to the colors red and green.

During the 1820s, many Irish workers helped build the Erie Canal, a major waterway that connected Albany and Buffalo, New York. After the work was finished, some settled in Syracuse and formed communities.

Over the years, the area came to be identified with its Irish roots and took the name Tipperary Hill, in reference to the county where many of the families who came to live there were from.

The traffic light story began when authorities installed a standard traffic signal in the 1920s. According to neighborhood lore, young men of Irish descent saw the setup as a provocation: they associated red with Britain and green with Ireland.

So they began throwing stones at the red light to break it. Each time authorities replaced the device, the young men damaged it again. The people behind these episodes came to be known as the Stone Throwers.

In the end, after several acts of vandalism, authorities agreed to reverse the light arrangement so the green would be on top and the red below. The traffic light thus became a permanent expression of the community’s Irish pride.

How the inverted traffic light works

The inverted traffic light works exactly like any other traffic signal in the United States. The position of the lights does not change their meaning or create exceptions for drivers.

That is the case of Jacob Palmer, a young man from Concord, North Carolina, who didn’t pursue a college career and instead bet on himself. “I was a good student,” he told Fortune. But when classes moved online during the pandemic, everything changed. “It felt very intangible,” he said. “I hated it.”

The decision to leave college was what drove him to become a successful young business owner at just 21 years old.

What was the decision that changed his life?

After leaving college, Palmer worked at a FedEx warehouse and later at a factory in rural Virginia. The turning point came when his mother was installing a hot tub and mentioned that the electrician was “super passionate and loved his job.” Palmer liked that the young man worked for himself.

He soon became a full-time apprentice at a small Charlotte company, earning $15 an hour. “I spent a few years just untangling the extension cords and doing the grunt work,” he said. That’s where he got some of the most important knowledge that he then used to start his own business.

From apprentice to business owner

Palmer passed his licensing exam in January 2024 and, a month later, at 21, opened his own company, Palmer Electrical. That year, it brought in nearly $90,000. In 2025, revenue almost doubled to $175,000, and he set a goal of $250,000 for 2026.

“I’m a one-man, one-truck operation,” he said. His first jobs came from friends, family, and neighbors, and then word-of-mouth referrals began to grow.

Most important for him, he has no student loans. “I don’t owe anybody anything,” he said.

Palmer is part of a wider trend. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for electricians are expected to grow by 11% between 2023 and 2033, much faster than the 4% average for all jobs, as projects like AI data centers drive demand.

What the warning actually says

The mandated message is blunt: if you pay only the minimum each period, you will pay more in interest and it will take you longer to clear the balance. Two calculations based on your current debt back it up:

• How long payoff would take if you only ever pay the minimum. Under two years, it’s shown in months; otherwise it’s rounded to whole years.
• The estimated total cost of that path, meaning everything you’d have paid in principal and interest by the end.

Both figures rest on two assumptions the statement itself must spell out: they use the balance shown on that statement, and they assume you add no new purchases. If you keep using the card, the real picture gets worse.

The 36-month yardstick

When the timeline is long, the statement adds a point of comparison: the monthly payment that would clear the balance in three years, the total cost of that plan, and how much you would save compared with sticking to the minimum.

It doesn’t always appear. It’s left out if paying the minimum would already finish the job in three years or less, or if the 36-month payment would be lower than the minimum required that cycle.

When the minimum doesn’t even cover the interest

The harshest scenario has its own wording. If the minimum payment is smaller than the interest accruing each month, the statement swaps the standard calculation for a stark message: even with no further spending, paying only the minimum means you would never pay off the balance. The monthly amount needed to finish in three years is shown as well.

Help getting out of the cycle

Any statement carrying this warning must include a toll-free phone number for credit counseling information. When you call, the issuer must provide the name, address, phone number and website of at least three organizations approved under the federal bankruptcy system. That list must be refreshed at least once a year, and the bank can’t lead with its own marketing before handing it over.

When you won’t see it

The warning doesn’t show up in every case. It is excluded for:

• Charge cards that require the full balance to be paid every month.
• The cycle right after two consecutive months in which you paid everything, had a zero balance or had a credit balance.
• Cycles where the minimum equals the entire balance.

The rules also require the box to sit on the first page, grouped with the due date, the late fee and the ending balance. It isn’t supposed to be buried.

Next time your statement arrives, find that number of years and compare it with what you could afford to pay each month. It’s the clearest figure you have on what your debt really costs.

Stevens lost the Democratic nomination to El-Sayed by less than a percentage point in the Aug. 4 primary and had endorsed him afterward. She announced the switch after attending a Sunday service with Rogers, a former congressman, at a Black church in Detroit. She then repeated it in a video on X.

Democratic leaders condemned the move within hours. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer called it “a despicable betrayal.” Michigan Democratic Party Chair Curtis Hertel said Stevens is not a member of the state party and won’t be in the future.

Republicans celebrated. President Donald Trump called Stevens “very brave” at a rally in Iowa and said he’d like her to join the GOP. Most of her congressional staff quit after learning of the endorsement on social media.

Why did Haley Stevens endorse Republican Mike Rogers?

Stevens said El-Sayed’s campaign made it clear she wasn’t wanted. On Saturday, he told reporters he didn’t want her at a Sunday church event in Detroit, saying he wanted to avoid distractions.

Party leaders had set up that event to show unity. Rep. Debbie Dingell arranged for Rep. Jim Clyburn of South Carolina, one of the party’s most influential figures, to invite both of them. It would have been their first joint appearance since the primary.

I am endorsing Mike Rogers for the United States Senate today. https://t.co/pQgfSBuhOJ

— Haley Stevens (@HaleyforMI) November 1, 2026

The bigger divide is over support for Israel. El-Sayed is one of his party’s sharpest critics of Israel’s actions in Gaza and wants to end U.S. military aid to the country. Stevens has defended Israel. The American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), a pro-Israel lobbying group, spent heavily against El-Sayed in the primary.

The breaking point was an ad from an outside group backing El-Sayed that blamed U.S. aid to Israel for high grocery prices. Stevens called it antisemitic and demanded he denounce it, and he did on Saturday. In her video, she also criticized his past appearances with Hasan Piker, a live-streamer whose remarks about jewish people have been widely condemned.

Could Haley Stevens’ endorsement cost Democrats the US Senate?

Democrats need a net gain of four seats Tuesday to win the Senate majority. Michigan’s seat is held by a retiring Democrat, so losing it would push that number to five.

That margin leaves little room for error. RealClearPolitics rates eight Senate races as toss-ups, Michigan among them, and its polling averages point to a Democratic gain of exactly four seats. That’s the bare minimum, with no cushion for losing a seat they already hold.

The state is a true swing state. It voted for Joe Biden in 2020 and Donald Trump in 2024, although no Republican has won this Senate seat since 1994.

Stevens did best in the primary among Black and Jewish Democrats, two groups where El-Sayed has had trouble. Rogers has predicted he could win as much as half of the Jewish vote.

For now, the numbers favor El-Sayed, though nearly all of those polls were done before the endorsement. The most recent survey, by The New York Times and Siena, was conducted Oct. 23 to Nov. 1 and showed him ahead 53% to 42%. Even so, RealClearPolitics still rates the race a toss-up.

His campaign said he raised $2.4 million on Sunday, his best fundraising day of the race.

Could Haley Stevens become Democrats’ scapegoat if they lose the Senate?

The party moved quickly to put the turmoil on her. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who had criticized El-Sayed’s views on Israel only days earlier, said Stevens had betrayed Michigan families and urged voters to back him.

Some of her friends turned on her too, and several pointed to her fiancé, Michigan lawyer Jason Turkish, an AIPAC donor who endorsed Rogers last week. Her mother, Maria Marcotte, told CNN that Stevens made the decision on her own.

Privately, though, Democratic officials told CNN there was blame to go around, notably for El-Sayed. One longtime official said he acted as if he’d won the primary in a landslide, when his margin was under a point.

Stevens says she was never invited to a single campaign event after the primary, and El-Sayed had little contact with her after their August race.

El-Sayed has dismissed the fight, telling reporters Sunday that none of it matters and that he is focused on the problems facing Michiganders. Tuesday’s results will show whether the defection moved any votes and, if El-Sayed falls short, how much of the blame lands on Stevens.

The full Moon will reach its exact phase on Tuesday, Nov. 24, while the satellite will move even closer to Earth the following day, when it reaches perigee, its closest point of the month. This coincidence will make it appear slightly larger and brighter than many typical full moons.

When can the 2026 Beaver Moon Supermoon be seen in Mexico?

According to the National Institute of Astrophysics, Optics and Electronics (INAOE), November’s full moon will occur on Tuesday, Nov. 24, 2026, at 2:53 p.m. Mexico City time.

However, that time corresponds to the exact moment of the full phase, not necessarily when it will be visible in the sky. To see it, observers are advised to look for it during the night of Nov. 24, once it rises above the horizon.

INAOE also notes that the satellite will reach perigee on Wednesday, Nov. 25, at 9:01 p.m., when it will be about 359,312 kilometers from Earth. It is worth noting that the distance during the full phase will be about 360,746 kilometers.

Why is it called the Beaver Moon?

The name Beaver Moon comes from ancient North American traditions. According to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, November was the time of year when beavers began taking shelter in their lodges and stockpiling food to get through the winter.

Another historical explanation is tied to the hunting season for these animals, whose fur was used to make warm clothing. That is how the name became part of traditional full-moon calendars.

Why is it called a Supermoon?

NASA explains that a supermoon occurs when the full phase coincides with perigee, the point in the Moon’s orbit when the satellite is closest to Earth.

In November 2026, the full moon and perigee will be separated by just over a day. That closeness will give the satellite an apparent size of about 33.1 arcminutes during the full phase and 33.2 arcminutes when it reaches perigee, according to INAOE ephemerides.

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration says a supermoon can appear up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than a full moon that occurs when the satellite is at its farthest point from Earth.

An event that happens every year, but with a twist this time

The Beaver Moon is the traditional name for November’s full moon, so it occurs every year. What does not necessarily happen every November is for that full moon to coincide with perigee.

In that sense, NASA says supermoons usually occur three to four times a year. That is why the 2026 Beaver Moon Supermoon will be special for its closeness to Earth.

Tips for viewing the Beaver Moon Supermoon

To watch it from Mexico, telescopes or specialized equipment will not be necessary.

All you need is a spot with a clear view of the horizon and patience until the Moon appears in the night sky, weather permitting.

The second CHAPEA mission (Crew Health and Performance Exploration Analog) ended Saturday at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, where the four participants had been isolated for more than a year, the EFE news agency reported.

Ross Elder said that while traveling to Mars involves enormous risks, sending humans to the planet is possible if it combines “the pursuit of knowledge, strong vision and leadership, creativity, resilience, hard work, and an extraordinary foundation,” he said at a news conference.

What CHAPEA 2 was like, the mission that simulated a year of life on Mars

CHAPEA 2 brought together Ross Elder, Ellen Ellis, Matthew Montgomery, and James Spicer, who lived for 378 days in a 160-square-meter habitat built with 3D printing to reproduce the challenges of a future expedition to the Red Planet.

The project is part of NASA’s research program to study how crews respond to prolonged isolation, confinement, and limited resources before setting out on long-duration space missions.

What challenges did the crew face during the 378-day isolation?

According to Sarah Whiting, the CHAPEA project scientist, the four participants tested operations independent of Earth, without receiving real-time guidance from mission control. They also carried out an intense, physically demanding schedule with limited resources.

Whiting highlighted another distinguishing feature of the experiment: “There was no crew rotation as is normally done on the International Space Station. These conditions are very demanding for carrying out a mission.”

The data collected will allow researchers to better understand how human teams adapt to extreme isolation, one of the main obstacles to future trips to Mars.

NASA identifies ground support as a key piece in reaching Mars

CHAPEA 2 flight surgeon Ellen Ellis stressed that a future crew traveling to the Red Planet will need “a very tightly integrated ground support team,” since that will make “their work easier” thanks to the “constant collaboration of the exercise, behavioral health, nutrition, and medical monitoring teams.”

Ellis also warned that “we have a narrowing window of opportunity to maintain U.S. preeminence in space,” a “strategic position that will only be preserved through deliberate action.”

As an example, she mentioned NASA’s lunar base and the National Space Academy, initiatives that, she said, “create opportunities.” She also urged people to “take the initiative, lead with science that benefits the economy, and ensure” the nation’s space legacy “for our children’s children.”

According to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the money must be reported on FinCEN Form 105 when the threshold set by federal regulations is exceeded.

The agency says there is no maximum amount of money that can be carried into or out of the country. However, failing to meet the declaration requirement can lead to legal consequences.

U.S. Customs: How does the US$10,000 limit apply to families?

CBP says that when members of a family travel together and file a joint customs declaration, the money carried by the group is counted together to determine whether the $10,000 threshold has been exceeded.

That means the limit should not be interpreted as $10,000 per family member traveling under a joint declaration.

What happens if a family does not declare more than $10,000 in cash?

Failing to file the required declaration can have serious consequences. U.S. authorities may hold or seize the undeclared money, in addition to imposing civil penalties and, in some cases, criminal penalties.

To comply with the rules, anyone entering or leaving the United States with more than $10,000 in cash or other monetary instruments must file FinCEN Form 105. When entering the country, funds must also be declared to CBP through the applicable customs procedures.

The declaration does not mean the money is illegal or that it is prohibited to travel with amounts above $10,000. The requirement is simply to properly report the funds being carried when the threshold is exceeded.

For that reason, before traveling, families should total the money they are carrying and check whether they need to file a declaration with U.S. Customs.

The change is due to Veterans Day, a federal holiday that will close government offices and many banks.

Who will receive retirement payments on Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2026

The beneficiaries who will receive the deposit on Tuesday the 10th are those whose birth date falls between the 1st and the 10th of any month and who are in the Wednesday payment group, specifically the second Wednesday of each month.

The official schedule is organized as follows:

• Born between the 1st and the 10th: second Wednesday of the month. In November, they will be paid on Tuesday the 10th because of the holiday.
• Born between the 11th and the 20th: third Wednesday, which in November will be the 18th.
• Born between the 21st and the 31st: fourth Wednesday, which falls on Nov. 25.

There is one important exception: those who began receiving Social Security benefits before May 1997 and those who receive both Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) follow a different schedule.

According to the SSA, these beneficiaries receive Social Security on the third day of each month (they will be paid on Tuesday, Nov. 3), while SSI is deposited on the first day (it was moved up to Friday, Oct. 30, because Nov. 1 fell on a Sunday).

What happens if the money does not arrive on the scheduled day

The SSA recommends waiting an additional three business days before contacting the agency if the payment does not appear in the bank account on the expected date. You can also check the status of deposits from your my Social Security account.

What is observed on Nov. 11

Nov. 11 commemorates the service of those who served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Its origins are tied to the armistice that ended combat in World War I in 1918.

In 1919, President Woodrow Wilson promoted the observance of Armistice Day. Later, in 1938, the U.S. Congress passed a law declaring Nov. 11 a national holiday and, finally, in 1954, it was renamed Veterans Day.

Since then, parades, tributes and official ceremonies have been held every year. One of the most important takes place at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, located at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.

The holiday also affects public institutions. According to USA.gov, “During federal holidays government offices, banks and some private-sector businesses are closed”.

This is not a decision by any one agency, but rather the result of implied consent laws in all 50 states.

What is implied consent?

Implied consent is a legal principle in effect nationwide: when a person gets a driver’s license, they already agree in advance to submit to a chemical test for alcohol or drugs — breath, blood or urine — if an officer requests one after a stop on suspicion of drunk driving.

In other words, permission does not need to be given at the moment: it is considered given once the license is issued, along with acceptance of the automatic consequences of refusing.

Police generally cannot physically force someone to take the test. But refusing comes with its own legal penalty, and that is where license suspension comes in.

They automatically suspend the licenses of people who refuse a breath test

When a driver refuses the chemical test, an administrative penalty is triggered, separate from what happens later in the criminal case, and its most common result is suspension or revocation of the license. In most states, the driver must surrender the license immediately upon refusing, and then the state motor vehicle agency formally imposes the suspension.

The length varies by state and depends on whether there are prior offenses. A few examples show the range: in California, a first-time refusal by a driver with no prior DUI convictions leads to a one-year suspension; in New York, the automatic suspension runs from six months to one year; in Massachusetts, it is six months for first-time refusals and much longer for people with a prior drunk-driving conviction. In general, prior offenses make the penalty more severe.

That is why stories like Elsie Eiler’s surprise people across the country. At 93, she is the only resident left in Monowi, Nebraska, a farm town that once had about 150 people and now holds the Guinness Record for the lowest population.

Eiler arrived at Monowi and grew up around five brothers in a small agricultural community of 134.4 acres and met her husband Rydy at the one-room schoolhouse in town.

The couple settled back in Monowi for a quiet life and witnessed the population dwindle as young folks and industry left the area. Eiler’s husband passed away in 2004, and she became the only resident recorded on the US Census.

What is the daily 12-hour work routine of Elsie Eiler living alone in a town

The 93-year-old woman ended up having to do all of the jobs needed to keep the town alive. She works 12 hours a day, six days a week at the tavern, making coffee, drinks, and food for local farmers.

Her family has owned the tavern since 1971. “This is my home. All my friends are around. Why would I want to leave?” she told the New York Times.

The proud Nebraskan is also the town mayor: “I‘m the whole thing. There’s no need for any elections because I’d be the only one to vote,” she told Reuters. Without her filing the paperwork, the town wouldn’t legally exist. “Like Monowi, I’m too tough to die,” she said.

Why tourists from around the world stop in Monowi

Although she is the only resident, Eiler is rarely alone. Travelers often stop at her tavern out of curiosity, and she says she has welcomed visitors from all 50 states and more than 60 countries, according to Guinness World Records. Prices are a reminder of another era: a beer cost about $2 and a burger $3.50.

The fame doesn’t seem to affect her. “[The attention] doesn’t impress me any, I don’t see what the big deal is,” she said in an interview.

She also has the company of her family and neighbors from nearby farms, who in 2021 threw her a party for her 50 years running the tavern. “They don’t see that it’s real people, and it’s real connections to the people and the land and that place that keep her there,” her daughter, Rene Lassise, told The New York Times.

What will happen to Monowi in the future?

Eiler knows that the future of the town is tied to her own. Without her, there would be no one to run the tavern, keep the library open, or file the paperwork that keeps Monowi legally alive.

“If I let myself sit and think about it, I feel sad that the time will come when I can’t be here anymore,” she said. “I don’t know what the future holds for here, but I’d like to see it keep going. Otherwise, it’s just going to be another bunch of shambled buildings on the side of the road.”

Many of these properties have become tourist attractions and open their doors to those who want to see their rooms, hallways and mysteries. Some even offer guided tours that tell the history of the place, making the experience immersive.

What are the 10 most famous haunted mansions and castles in the world?

Among the historic buildings known for ghost stories are:

• 1. Winchester Mystery House, in San Jose, California, United States.
• 2. Corvin Castle, in Hunedoara, Transylvania, Romania.
• 3. Houska Castle, in Blatce, Czech Republic.
• 4. Lizzie Borden House, in Fall River, Massachusetts, United States.
• 5. Brissac Castle, in Brissac-Quincé, France.
• 6. Raynham Hall, in East Raynham, Norfolk, England.
• 7. Glamis Castle, in Glamis, Angus, Scotland.
• 8. Merchant’s House Museum, in New York, United States.
• 9. Linares Palace, in Madrid, Spain.
• 10. Eltz Castle, near Wierschem, Germany.

What stories and legends surround these historic properties?

Behind these historic buildings are stories of tragedy, murder and alleged apparitions that helped turn them into destinations known to mystery fans.

One of the best-known stories is that of the Winchester Mystery House, whose owner, Sarah Winchester, believed she was being haunted by the spirits of people killed by rifles made by her family’s company. Legend has it that the home’s constant changes were meant to confuse those spirits.

Meanwhile, Houska Castle is known for the belief that a well connected to hell lies beneath its chapel. Folk tales mention strange creatures and apparitions on the grounds.

In the United States, the Lizzie Borden House became notorious for the murder of Andrew and Abby Borden in 1982. It differs from the other stories because, in this case, it was a real crime, followed by later alleged apparitions.

Each property holds its own story, which in turn can be linked to the folklore of each place.

Which of these mansions offer guided tours for visitors?

Some of these historic properties allow visitors to tour their grounds through organized guided visits. Options vary, from architecture-focused tours and nighttime experiences to activities centered on the legends.

• 1. Winchester Mystery House: visitors can explore 110 of its 160 rooms on a guided tour lasting about 65 minutes. There are also special experiences to see the basement and attic.
• 2. Corvin Castle: offers tours of its imposing medieval architecture. The guide service costs 60 Romanian lei or 100 lei in English and Hungarian, in addition to the 55 lei general admission.
• 3. Houska Castle: lets visitors step inside a medieval fortress famous for the legend of a supposed entrance to hell. Visits depend on the opening schedule.
• 4. Lizzie Borden House: those looking for a more unsettling experience can take 90-minute historical tours, nighttime ghost tours and two-hour paranormal investigations.
• 5. Brissac Castle: tourists can tour the grounds and learn about the legend of the Green Lady. The visit lasts about 75 minutes and general admission costs 13.50 euros.
• 6. Raynham Hall: this mansion, famous for the legend of the Brown Lady, announced the return of its tours and events in 2026. Dates and formats should be confirmed with the property.
• 7. Glamis Castle: offers guided tours of about 50 minutes through its historic rooms. The visit is included with admission to the castle and its gardens.
• 8. Merchant’s House Museum: lets visitors explore one of New York’s most mysterious historic homes through 75-minute guided tours, with general admission at $20.50. In October, it also offers candlelit ghost tours.
• 9. Linares Palace: opens its doors so visitors can discover its halls, architecture and the legends surrounding it. It offers guided tours in Spanish from Friday to Sunday, with general admission at 10 euros.
• 10. Eltz Castle: invites visitors to tour its medieval interiors on guided visits lasting 35 to 40 minutes. General admission costs 14 euros, and tours are also available in English and French.

United States blocks standard passport renewals for these citizens

Mail renewal is done with Form DS-82 and is the most convenient and common option, because it lets applicants mail in the expired passport along with the required documents without appearing in person. But not everyone can use it. One requirement is that the passport being renewed must have been issued when the holder was 16 or older. If the document was processed before that age, meaning while the holder was a minor, it cannot be renewed by mail, even if the person is now an adult.

What matters is not the holder’s current age, but how old they were when that passport was issued. An adult whose only or most recent passport was obtained as a child cannot use Form DS-82; they must apply for a new one in person, as if they were a first-time applicant.

How to renew a passport in this case

When a passport does not qualify for mail renewal, the application must be filed in person with Form DS-11, the same form used by people applying for a passport for the first time. In general, the process involves:

• Fill out Form DS-11 (do not sign it until instructed to do so by the official).
• Appear at a passport acceptance facility: many post offices (USPS), libraries or courthouses serve as such, or at a passport agency, usually by appointment.
• Bring proof of U.S. citizenship (for example, a birth certificate or the previous passport), a photo ID and a photocopy of it.
• Provide a recent photo that meets official requirements.
• Pay the applicable fees for the application.

According to VCA Animal Hospitals, a network of veterinary hospitals in the United States and Canada, bones can cause mouth injuries, intestinal blockages, and other complications that require medical attention.

Why is giving a dog a bone dangerous for its health?

Although giving dogs bones is a common practice, it can pose a major health risk. One of the main dangers is that bones can break into small or sharp pieces that the animal may accidentally swallow and cause:

• Choking: fragments can get stuck in the throat, making breathing difficult.
• Intestinal blockage: pieces of bone can build up or become lodged in the digestive tract.
• Internal perforations: splinters can injure the esophagus, stomach, or intestines.
• Dental fractures: chewing on bones that are too hard can break teeth.
• Bacterial infections: raw bones can contain harmful microorganisms, such as Salmonella.

Cooked bones are especially dangerous because they can splinter, and raw bones can cause injuries, blockages, and infections.

What other foods should dogs not eat?

In addition to bones, there are many common household foods that can be toxic or harmful to dogs.

Among the main ones are:

• Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, substances that can cause poisoning, heart problems, and seizures.
• Grapes and raisins can cause acute kidney failure.
• Onion and garlic contain compounds that can damage red blood cells and cause anemia.
• Xylitol: this sweetener, found in some gum, candy, and sugar-free products, can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar and liver damage.
• Alcoholic drinks can cause vomiting, breathing difficulties, and neurological problems.
• Caffeinated foods and drinks, such as coffee and some energy drinks, can affect the nervous system and the heart.

The severity of poisoning depends on the food, the amount consumed, and the animal’s characteristics. If ingestion is possible, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian immediately.

What should you do after giving a dog a bone to eat?

If a dog ate a bone, the first thing to do is remove any remaining fragments and contact a veterinarian, even if the animal does not show discomfort right away.

It is important to specify what type of bone the dog ate, whether it was raw or cooked, its approximate size, and how much time has passed since ingestion.

It is also important to watch for possible signs of complications such as:

• Persistent vomiting or retching.
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing.
• Abdominal pain or swelling.
• Blood in the stool or vomit.
• Constipation or difficulty defecating.
• Loss of appetite, weakness, or lethargy.

If the dog has trouble breathing, severe pain or shows signs of a blockage, it needs emergency veterinary care.

Do not induce vomiting or give home remedies without professional guidance, because the fragments can cause further injury.

With that in mind, it is essential for those who must remain at work during these days to know what federal law says about how pay should be handled and the minimum amount that hours worked beyond the schedule set in the contract must equal.

Working on holidays: the law says employers are not required to pay extra

The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) says employers have no legal obligation to pay a premium to workers who work weekends, holidays, or days off.

On these specific dates, workers are paid what they are owed for the hours worked, unless extra pay has been agreed to in the contract and specifically spelled out.

Overtime in the United States: it must be 1.5 times a worker’s usual pay

This rule, overseen by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division, applies to all nonexempt employees who work more than 40 hours in a single workweek.

The rule is that each hour of overtime must be paid at least 1.5 times the usual rate and applies only to hours beyond the regular schedule.

“An employee who earns $8.00 an hour and works 44 hours in a workweek is entitled to at least time and a half of $8.00, or $12.00, for each hour worked over 40 hours. Their pay that week would be $320 for the first 40 hours, and $48.00 for the four hours of overtime, for a total of $368.00,” authorities say.

The U.S. government’s official calculator can be used to get an idea of how much this extra pay should be.

What are the 11 holidays observed in the United States?

According to USA.gov, the 11 special dates are:

• New Year’s Day
• Martin Luther King Jr. Day
• Presidents Day
• Memorial Day
• Juneteenth
• Independence Day
• Labor Day
• Columbus Day
• Veterans Day
• Thanksgiving Day
• Christmas Day

According to Chesapeake Public Schools, the School Board unanimously approved an update to the 2026-2027 calendar on Thursday, Oct. 29, allowing the student break to be extended.

The decision, officially announced Friday, Oct. 30, means Wednesday, Nov. 25, which had initially been scheduled as an early-release day, will become a full day off.

Which students will have five straight days off in November?

The change affects students in Chesapeake Public Schools, the school district in Chesapeake, Virginia.

According to the official statement, all schools and district administrative offices will be closed from Wednesday, Nov. 25, through Friday, Nov. 27, 2026.

With Saturday, Nov. 28, and Sunday, Nov. 29 added in, students will have five straight days off for Thanksgiving.

The change was approved by a School Board vote and alters the original schedule, which had included classes for part of Wednesday, Nov. 25.

November school calendar: What other days will Chesapeake schools be closed?

In addition to the extended Thanksgiving break, the district reminded families of other November dates when its schools will be closed.

• Tuesday, Nov. 3: no classes for students because of Election Day, a day set aside for teacher work.
• Wednesday, Nov. 11: all schools and administrative offices will be closed for Veterans Day.
• Wednesday, Nov. 25, through Friday, Nov. 27: schools and offices closed for Thanksgiving.

Families can check the updated calendar and upcoming events on the school district’s official website.

However, her life changed when she decided to return to high school. Despite the obstacles, she finished her studies in just two years and won a scholarship that allowed her to continue her education at Harvard University.

Who is Liz Murray and what was her childhood like around poverty and drugs?

Elizabeth Murray was born on September 23, 1980, and grew up with her sister in a family that was going through serious financial hardship, made worse by her parents’ addiction problems.

During her childhood, the lack of money affected her living conditions. At times, she did not have enough food and had to face neglect and hardship. Her parents spent part of the family’s resources on drugs, while their daughters’ basic needs went unmet.

Both parents later contracted HIV, which made the family situation even worse and affected Liz’s education as a result.

How did she end up living on the street as a teenager?

Murray’s situation worsened in her teens, as her mother died of AIDS in 1996 and her father ended up in a homeless shelter.

That’s how Liz became homeless as a teenager, without a stable home or a family structure to support her.

Murray said that during that period she spent nights in subway stations, parks, and other places in New York City. Not having a home also made it harder to eat, sleep, and even think about going to school.

How did she go from living on the street to winning a scholarship to Harvard?

The turning point came when Murray decided to go back to school and enrolled at the Humanities Preparatory Academy, a high school in Manhattan.

Although she was still dealing with housing problems, she managed to focus on her studies and complete four years of high school in just two, with a grade point average of 95 out of 100.

Her performance earned her a scholarship from The New York Times, awarded to students who had managed to stand out academically despite facing difficult personal and financial circumstances.

She later applied to Harvard University and was accepted. In the fall of 2000, she began her studies at one of the world’s most renowned academic institutions.

What happened to Liz Murray after getting into Harvard?

Getting into Harvard did not mark the end of Murray’s personal struggles. In 2003, she transferred to Columbia University to be close to her father, who was facing health problems.

Later, she resumed her academic path and earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Harvard in 2009.

Her story gained international recognition thanks to the film Homeless to Harvard: The Liz Murray Story, released in 2003, which recreates the experiences she went through during her childhood and adolescence.

A year after earning her degree, she published her autobiography, Breaking Night, in which she recounted the hardships of growing up in a family affected by addiction, her experience living on the street, and the path she took to get into college.

Over time, she also became a speaker and began sharing her story in a range of educational settings and co-founded The Arthur Project, an organization that provides support and mentoring to young people in vulnerable situations.

However, losing it or having it stolen can create complications, especially when the holder is outside the United States. For that reason, the State Department sets out a series of procedures for reporting what happened and requesting a new document.

What should you do when you lose your passport?

According to the State Department, U.S. citizens who lose their passport or are the victims of theft should report it to the agency as soon as possible.

There are three ways to file the report:

• Online: complete Form DS-64 through the State Department’s official website.
• By phone: call 1-877-487-2778.
• By mail: complete Form DS-64 and send it to the address provided by the authorities.

This process invalidates the lost document so it cannot be used later.

What happens to the passport after the report is filed?

Once the State Department receives and processes the report, the passport is invalidated and can no longer be used for travel.

That means that even if the holder later finds the document, it cannot be used again or reactivated.

How do you replace a lost passport in the United States?

Reporting the loss or theft does not automatically mean receiving a new passport, and getting a replacement requires an additional process.

If it was lost in the country, follow these steps:

• 1. Complete the DS-11 passport application form.
• 2. Present documentation proving U.S. citizenship and identity.
• 3. Submit a photo that meets the official requirements.
• 4. Pay the required fees.
• 5. Submit the application at an authorized passport acceptance facility or, where applicable, at a passport agency.

What should you do if you lose your passport abroad?

U.S. citizens who lose their passport while outside the country should contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

Consular officials can tell them what documents to submit and how to apply for a replacement.

In urgent situations, such as when a citizen needs to return to the United States and does not have enough time to obtain a regular passport, the consulate can issue a limited-validity emergency passport, which will allow them to return to the country quickly. It must be replaced as soon as possible.

The system, fueled by tropical moisture from the Pacific known as an atmospheric river or “Pineapple Express,” hit Arizona, Utah, New Mexico, and Colorado on Sunday, November 1. According to AccuWeather, it could leave rainfall totals of up to 11 inches in isolated spots by the end of the event.

Where is the heaviest rain expected, and which areas could flood?

The National Weather Service office in Grand Junction, Colorado, kept a flood watch in place until 11 a.m. MST Monday for parts of southeast Utah and southwest Colorado, where 1 to 3 inches of rain were expected from Sunday morning through Monday morning.

The weather service warned that runoff could flood rivers, creeks, and low-lying areas, and that storm drains could become clogged with debris.

Among the cities at risk of flooding on streets and roads are:

• Arizona: Phoenix, Tucson, and Flagstaff.
• Utah: Cedar City and Moab.
• Colorado: Durango and Grand Junction.

AccuWeather forecast 1 to 4 inches of rain across large parts of the Southwest, with 4 to 8 inches in some areas of central Arizona and localized totals of up to 11 inches.

On Sunday, the Weather Prediction Center also warned of strong thunderstorms in parts of Arizona and New Mexico, with possible damaging wind gusts, hail, and flash flooding.

Where will it snow during the first November storm?

The push of cold air will also favor snowfall in the highest elevations of the western U.S. mountain ranges, especially the Wasatch and Rocky Mountains.

AccuWeather estimates general snowfall totals of between 15 and 30 centimeters in higher elevations on Sunday and Monday.

The agency says Denver is not among the cities expected to see significant snowfall from this system. The heaviest totals will be concentrated mainly in mountain areas.

The previously unknown specimen was named Herugavialis cairensis by experts, who described the animal’s features in a paper published Oct. 7 in Royal Society Open Science.

What is notable about the discovery, beyond the advance it represents for crocodile history, is its connection to the Great Sphinx of Giza, which led scientists to give it that name.

The crocodile that lived 45 million years ago in the Mediterranean: a newly discovered species

University College London (UCL), where study co-author Philip Mannion works, explains that the new species is a gavial, a specific group of crocodiles distinguished from others by their long, slender snouts.

According to the report, the team analyzed fossils that were originally discovered in the 1920s but were previously misidentified as part of the species Tomistoma schlegelii.

The mistake was spotted when they performed a CT scan to examine the inside of the skull, at which point they identified several features that did not match the classification it had been given and showed that it was a different species.

The animal is now extinct, and experts explain that there are only two gavial species in the world, both endangered.

This crocodile’s link to the mysteries of Ancient Egypt

The species was discovered in the same rock formation where the Great Sphinx of Giza was carved. The curiosity deepened further when researchers found that the skull was missing the tip of its snout, the same thing seen in the ancient Egyptian sculpture, which is missing its nose.

“Given this coincidence, we decided to name the new crocodile after the Egyptian god Heru, who may have been the inspiration for this monument,” Mannion said.

This discovery therefore provides more information about the creatures that inhabited our planet in the past, helping to fill in a new piece of the puzzle of terrestrial fauna.

The documents were published in the Official Gazette of the Federation (DOF) and correspond to two separate notices.

The SAT published a list with 120 taxpayers

The 120 taxpayers are split across two final Article 69-B notices:

• 106 taxpayers, included under notice 500-05-00-00-00-2026-24526.
• 14 taxpayers, included under notice 500-05-00-00-00-2026-24615.

Both documents were published in the DOF on Oct. 9, 2026.

Article 69-B sets out a procedure for cases in which the tax authority finds that a taxpayer issued tax invoices without having the assets, staff, infrastructure or material capacity to carry out the transactions they cover.

What the SAT determined

In the case of the 106 taxpayers, the authority said they did not present arguments or evidence to rebut the facts identified during the proceeding.

For the other 14 taxpayers, arguments and evidence were submitted, but the authority determined they were not enough to rebut the presumption of nonexistent transactions.

Once the steps set out in Article 69-B were completed, the taxpayers were added to the final global lists published by the SAT and the DOF.

What happens with the tax invoices?

The fifth paragraph of Article 69-B of the Federal Fiscal Code says that, for all purposes, the tax invoices issued by taxpayers definitively included in these lists have not and do not produce any tax effect.

This may affect those who used those invoices to claim tax effects, so they should review the related transactions and the documentation supporting them.

Article 69-B provides that those who assigned any tax effect to those invoices have 30 days from the publication of the final list to prove that they did in fact buy the goods or receive the services, or to correct their tax status.

The official lists can be consulted directly in the Official Gazette of the Federation through the corresponding notices for the 106 and 14 taxpayers.

The measure applies across the United States and is part of the official holiday calendar. However, that does not mean all private-sector employees are automatically off, since conditions depend on each company and the applicable labor rules.

The official USA.gov site explains: “During federal holidays, government offices, banks and some private-sector businesses are closed”.

What will be closed on Wednesday, Nov. 11

Veterans Day is one of the federal holidays recognized by the U.S. government. As a result, there will be changes to the hours of public institutions and financial entities.

Among those most affected are:

• Federal offices: They will be closed for the holiday.
• Banks: Many branches will not offer in-person service, although certain digital services and ATMs will remain available.
• Private companies: Some businesses will suspend operations, while others will operate normally.
• Schools and state offices: Closures will depend on each school district’s calendar and local rules.

As a result, anyone who needs to handle business in person should keep the holiday in mind and check each institution’s hours.

Meanwhile, federal employees who usually work Monday through Friday will have a four-day workweek, with a midweek interruption. Other workers should check their employer’s policies to confirm whether they will have paid time off.

Why Veterans Day is commemorated on Nov. 11

Nov. 11 marks the service of those who served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Its origin is tied to the armistice that ended the fighting in World War I in 1918.

In 1919, President Woodrow Wilson promoted the commemoration of Armistice Day. Later, in 1938, the U.S. Congress passed a law declaring Nov. 11 a national holiday, and finally, in 1954, it was renamed Veterans Day.

Since then, parades, tributes, and official ceremonies have been held every year. One of the most important takes place at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, located at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.

For the 2026 tax year, the IRS’s draft instructions set the maximum ACTC at $1,700 per qualifying child, while the maximum Child Tax Credit is $2,200 per qualifying child. The tax year covers income earned during 2026, with most returns filed in 2027.

The actual refund depends on the taxpayer’s income, tax liability, number of qualifying children and eligibility under federal tax rules. Claiming the credit does not mean the IRS has already approved a refund.

Who qualifies for the Additional Child Tax Credit in 2027?

The ACTC may help families who qualify for the Child Tax Credit but cannot use the full amount of that credit to reduce their federal income tax. The refundable portion may allow eligible taxpayers to receive money even when their tax liability is limited.

According to the IRS, a qualifying child must meet these requirements:

• Age: The child must be under 17 at the end of 2026.
• Relationship: The child must meet the IRS relationship criteria, such as being the taxpayer’s son, daughter, stepchild, eligible foster child, sibling or a qualifying descendant of one of these relatives.
• Dependent status: The taxpayer must be eligible to claim the child as a dependent on their federal return.
• Residency and other tests: The child must meet the applicable residency and qualifying-child rules.
• Social Security number: The child must have a valid Social Security number for employment in the United States, issued before the return’s due date, including extensions when applicable.

The taxpayer must also meet the applicable identification and filing requirements. For married couples filing jointly, at least one spouse must generally have a valid Social Security number. The other spouse may use a Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), subject to the IRS rules and deadlines.

How much can families receive from the IRS in 2027?

For the 2026 tax year, the IRS’s draft instructions establish these maximum amounts:

The ACTC amount is calculated under specific rules. Under the standard formula in the draft instructions, the refundable amount is generally based on 15% of earned income above $2,500, subject to the maximum per qualifying child and other applicable provisions.

As a result, not every family will receive $1,700. The amount may be lower depending on earned income and the taxpayer’s circumstances. The IRS determines the final credit when it processes the return.

The ACTC is not an automatic payment or a separate stimulus check. Taxpayers must claim the applicable credit on their federal tax return and provide the required information.

What income limits apply to the Child Tax Credit?

The IRS’s draft Schedule 8812 instructions for 2026 state that the Child Tax Credit and related credit amounts may be reduced when modified adjusted gross income exceeds $400,000 for married couples filing jointly or $200,000 for other filing statuses.

The refundable ACTC calculation also depends on earned income and the number of qualifying children. Taxpayers should review the final IRS instructions for the 2026 tax year before filing, since draft forms and instructions may be updated.

Families should verify the child’s eligibility, the required Social Security numbers and the information included on their tax return. Errors or missing information may delay processing or affect the amount of the credit.

When will the IRS issue ACTC refunds in 2027?

The IRS cannot issue refunds before mid-February 2027 for tax returns that properly claim the Additional Child Tax Credit. This restriction applies to the entire refund, not just the portion attributable to the ACTC.

The exact date a taxpayer receives the money depends on when the IRS receives and processes the return, whether the agency needs additional information and the payment method selected.

Taxpayers can monitor their refund through the IRS’s official Where’s My Refund? tool. A credit claim alone does not confirm that a refund has been approved or establish a specific deposit date.

Because the 2026 Schedule 8812 instructions are currently published as a draft, taxpayers should consult the final version when it becomes available before making filing decisions.

The case came to light in 2021, when specialists at the University of Oxford examined human remains preserved at Kyoto University. Among the bones of ancient hunter-gatherers, they found an adult man who lived more than 3,000 years ago and whose skeleton showed about 800 traumatic injuries.

How they discovered the shark attack that took place 3,000 years ago

While analyzing the remains, researchers Alyssa White and Rick Schulting were stunned by the extent of the wounds. The serrated marks were concentrated mainly on the arms, legs, chest, and abdomen. To determine their origin, the team compared different possibilities and ruled out injuries from fights between people or the work of other common predators and scavengers.

The study, published in Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports, combined archaeological tools with forensic analysis techniques to reconstruct what happened. The specialists dated the death to between 1370 and 1010 B.C. in the Seto Inland Sea region of Japan. The distribution of the wounds indicated that the man was likely still alive when he was attacked, strengthening the theory of a fatal encounter with a shark.

What is known about the victim and the possible shark responsible

Archaeologists believe the man may have been fishing with other people when the attack occurred. According to the reconstruction, his companions would have recovered the body shortly afterward and buried him. The excavation records showed that one hand and the right leg were missing, while the left had been placed over the body in an inverted position.

Based on the characteristics and distribution of the bites, experts suggested the culprit may have been a tiger shark or a great white shark, although the find did not allow them to identify the species with certainty.

Mark Hudson, a researcher at the Max Planck Institute and one of the study’s authors, highlighted the value of the discovery for understanding ancient Japan.

The shutdown coincides with the legislative elections, when millions of Americans will head to the polls. Some schools serve as polling places, while other districts schedule teacher training days or days off.

In which 5 states will there be no classes on Tuesday, Nov. 3?

According to a review by SchoolYearCalendars.com, updated Oct. 15, 2026, 79 school districts in five states will have a day off for students:

• Connecticut: 27 of 27 districts closed.
• New Hampshire: 13 of 13.
• New Mexico: 14 of 14.
• Rhode Island: 14 of 14.
• West Virginia: 11 of 11. School closures during certain elections are also covered under state law, specifically Section 18A-5-2 of the West Virginia Code.

Why classes are suspended on Nov. 3

On Nov. 3, the 2026 midterm elections will be held, a day when the House seats and part of the Senate will be up for election.

How to find out whether there will be classes on Tuesday, Nov. 3

Although the review identified 104 districts without classes among the 179 analyzed in 13 states, the shutdown will not be mandatory for all schools in the country.

Families should check their district’s 2026-2027 school calendar and verify whether Nov. 3 is listed as Election Day, No School or a teacher professional development day. It is also important to see whether the school will switch to virtual classes, as is the case in New York.

This Tuesday, November 3, will be an official holiday in some states

November 3, 2026, is Election Day, the day when the midterm elections are held across the country. Several states declare by law that this day, the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November, in general election years, is an official holiday, intended to make voting easier. However, it is not a federal holiday: that is why the day off applies only in the states that establish it as such, and not in the rest of the country.

One by one, which states will have a holiday

According to the review of official calendars, Election Day appears as a state holiday on November 3 in the following ten states:

• Delaware
• Hawaii
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Louisiana
• Michigan
• New Jersey
• New York
• Rhode Island
• Virginia

Public offices and schools close

In the states on the list, the day off mainly applies to state public employees, and it is common for many schools to close, partly because several school buildings are used as voting centers.

In contrast, since it is not a federal holiday, the rest of the country works as usual. Banks, the mail service (USPS), and financial markets operate normally throughout the United States, even in the states where it is a holiday. Therefore, rather than a general day of rest, it is a holiday limited to the state level and, above all, to the public sector.

What boiling basil, rosemary, and orange peel is used for

The goal of this combination is to neutralize strong odors and scent the rooms naturally. When boiled, the steam carries the aromas of the herbs and peel, spreads through the house, and helps cover and mask strong smells, especially in the kitchen and in enclosed spaces. In practice, it works like a natural stove air freshener.

The explanation lies in the essential oils of each ingredient, which are volatile: with heat they are released and pass into the steam, which disperses them through the room. Orange peel provides limonene, the compound responsible for the typical citrus, fresh, and powerful aroma used to cover odors. Rosemary adds its characteristic smell, marked by compounds such as cineole (eucalyptol) and camphor.

And basil provides a herbal and sweet fragrance, due to compounds such as linalool. The combination of citrus, herbal, and woody notes is what gives that enveloping aroma associated with cleanliness and freshness.

Step by step: how to make the mixture

The preparation is very simple:

• Fill a pot with water and put it on the heat.
• Add a few rosemary sprigs, a few basil leaves, and the peel of one or two oranges, previously washed.
• Bring to a boil and then lower the heat so it slowly releases aroma, on very low heat.
• Let the steam spread through the house, keeping an eye on the pot.

Why it is recommended

Beyond the result, the appeal is that it is a natural, cheap, and handy alternative to commercial air fresheners. It uses ingredients that are usually found in any kitchen, does not leave the air filled with aerosol chemicals, makes use of leftovers that are normally thrown away, such as orange peel, and allows you to adjust the intensity of the aroma to taste, depending on how many herbs and how much peel are used. In addition, as it disperses with the steam, the fragrance reaches the entire room, something a spray cannot achieve.

According to the weather forecast from AccuWeather for Friday, Oct. 30, the chance of rain will reach 93% during the day and rise to 96% at night. Conditions will be marked by humidity, cloud cover and winds from the east.

When Rain Will Fall in Miami on Nov. 1

According to AccuWeather, Sunday will be “mostly cloudy; there will be some showers and thunderstorms, breezy, humid”. The forecast calls for rain in both the morning and afternoon, among other conditions:

• Morning: temperature of 28 C, 65% chance of rain and estimated totals of 5.0 mm.
• Afternoon: temperature of 27 C, 79% chance of precipitation and forecast rain of 8.3 mm.
• Night: low of 24 C, 96% chance of rain and estimated totals of 18.9 mm. This will be one of the periods requiring the most attention, since the chance of thunderstorms will reach 58%, while during the day it will stand at 54%.

How Much Rain Will Fall in Miami and How Strong Will the Winds Be?

The report forecasts 13.4 millimeters of rain during the day and another 18.9 millimeters Sunday night.

As for the wind, sustained speeds of 24 km/h from the east are expected, with gusts of up to 54 km/h during the day and 48 km/h at night.

The high will be 28 C, with a feels-like temperature of up to 31 C, while humidity could reach 82% in the afternoon.

In addition, AccuWeather keeps a “rip current statement” for Sunday in its report, a warning that is important for swimmers and visitors to coastal areas. The statement is in effect from 2:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Among its most widely shared recommendations is a simple ritual: placing a glass of water and salt in the bedroom to carry out an energy cleansing.

According to its principles, the combination of both elements is associated with purification, protection and the symbolic removal of negative energy that can build up in a space.

What Is the Purpose of Putting a Glass of Water and Salt in the Bedroom, According to Feng Shui?

Within beliefs linked to Feng Shui, salt is considered an element associated with cleansing and energy protection. Water, for its part, represents purification, renewal and movement.

By combining both ingredients, those who practice this tradition seek to create a symbolic tool to neutralize negative energy and restore balance to the space.

Among the main purposes attributed to this ritual are:

• Absorb negative energy: according to this belief, the mixture would help gather the heavy energy that accumulates in the bedroom.
• Encourage harmony: it is used as part of a routine to create a calmer, more balanced environment.
• Promote energy renewal: it represents the intention of leaving negative situations behind and starting a new stage.
• Support rest: it aims to turn the room into a space of calm, relaxation and well-being.

How to Prepare the Glass-of-Water-and-Salt Ritual in the Bedroom

This practice does not require special products or hard-to-find items. The preparation is simple and uses ingredients that are usually found in any kitchen.

The items needed are:

• A clear glass.
• Drinking water.
• One or two tablespoons of coarse salt.

Once the ingredients are gathered, the process is:

1. Choose a clean glass: preferably a clear glass reserved exclusively for this ritual.
2. Add the salt: place one or two tablespoons of coarse salt in the bottom of the container.
3. Add the water: fill the glass until the salt is covered and let both elements combine.
4. Place it in the bedroom: choose a quiet corner where it cannot be knocked over accidentally.
5. Remove it afterward: some versions of this tradition recommend replacing the contents every so often and not reusing it.

Where Should You Place the Glass of Water and Salt to Attract Good Energy?

The placement of the container also has meaning within Feng Shui recommendations.

Those who follow this ritual usually advise placing it in a discreet area of the bedroom, preferably in a stable spot away from walkways.

Some of the chosen locations are:

• In a corner of the bedroom: to keep the container in a quiet area.
• On a side table: as long as it is kept away from objects that could contaminate the water.
• Near a window: in a space protected from direct sunlight and where it cannot be knocked over.

The main recommendation is to avoid placing it in spots where it could pose a risk or interfere with everyday activities.

How Often Should the Salt Water Be Changed?

In the different versions of the ritual, some people recommend changing the mixture every day, while others prefer to renew it after several days.

One popular custom is to remove the glass in the morning and prepare a new one when you want to repeat the practice.

It is also important to keep the container clean: the water used should not be consumed, and it should be kept out of the reach of small children or pets.

According to Accuweather, a U.S. private weather company, the phenomenon is tied to an atmospheric river that carries large amounts of moisture from the Pacific Ocean into the United States.

Which states will be affected by the heavy storms?

The states expected to see the heaviest rain are Arizona, Utah, New Mexico and Colorado, where intense rainfall could trigger flash floods, landslides and rising rivers.

The areas under threat are:

• Arizona: Phoenix, Tucson and Flagstaff.
• Utah: Cedar City and Moab.
• Colorado: Durango and Grand Junction.
• New Mexico: mainly parts of the northern part of the state.
• California: Los Angeles and San Diego would see lighter rain, while the Sierra Nevada could get snow.

Across much of the Southwest, rainfall totals of 25 to 100 millimeters are expected, with localized maximums near 278 millimeters in mountain areas.

How long will the storms last and when will they be strongest?

The weather is expected to worsen on Saturday, Oct. 31, while the highest flood risk will run from Saturday night through Sunday, Nov. 1.

In California, the rain will be concentrated mainly from Saturday afternoon and evening into the early hours of Sunday.

Meanwhile, snow in the mountain areas could continue through Monday, Nov. 2, especially in the Wasatch and Rocky Mountains, where 15 to 30 centimeters of accumulation is expected at the highest elevations.

When will conditions start to improve?

The forecast indicates that the heaviest rain should begin to ease after Sunday, Nov. 1 across much of the Southwest. However, some rain and snow could persist through Monday, Nov. 2.

AccuWeather warns that river flooding and runoff could continue for much of the following week, even after the rain stops. Meanwhile, the system will move into the Great Plains and the Mississippi Valley between Monday, Nov. 2 and Tuesday, Nov. 3, with new storms that could affect eastern Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas and southern Missouri.

The first higher payment depends on the program you receive. Most people collecting Social Security retirement, disability or survivor benefits will see the increase in their January 2027 payment, while SSI recipients are scheduled to receive their adjusted benefit on December 31, 2026, ahead of the New Year’s Day holiday.

When the 2027 Social Security COLA takes effect

The SSA announced the 3.6% increase on October 14, 2026. The adjustment applies to benefits beginning with December 2026, which are generally paid in January 2027.

For most people receiving retirement, disability or survivor benefits, this means the first payment reflecting the increase will arrive in January. The exact deposit date depends on the recipient’s payment group.

The schedule differs for people who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Their increased payment for January 2027 is scheduled to arrive on December 31, 2026, because January 1 is a federal holiday.

That earlier deposit does not represent an extra check or a bonus. It is the regular SSI payment for January, delivered ahead of the usual date.

When you’ll receive your first higher Social Security payment

The payment date depends on the type of benefit you receive and, for many Social Security beneficiaries, your date of birth.

• December 31, 2026: SSI recipients receive the January payment with the 3.6% increase.
• January 3 payment group: Some beneficiaries, including those who began receiving Social Security before May 1997, follow a different schedule from the standard Wednesday groups. Because January 3, 2027, falls on a Sunday, the applicable payment date should be checked against the SSA’s official calendar.
• January 13, 2027: Under the regular schedule, retirement, disability and survivor beneficiaries born between the 1st and 10th of the month receive their January payment on the second Wednesday.
• January 20, 2027: Beneficiaries born between the 11th and 20th generally receive their payment on the third Wednesday.
• January 27, 2027: Beneficiaries born between the 21st and 31st generally receive their payment on the fourth Wednesday.

People who receive both Social Security and SSI may have different deposit dates for each benefit. Checking the official payment calendar is the best way to confirm when the increased amount will arrive.

How much more money will Social Security recipients get in 2027?

The 3.6% COLA will not translate into the same dollar increase for everyone. The amount depends on the benefit a person currently receives.

The SSA estimates that the average monthly retirement benefit will rise by approximately $75. That figure is an average, not a guaranteed increase for every retiree.

For example, a beneficiary currently receiving $1,500 per month would see a gross increase of $54 after applying the 3.6% adjustment. The new amount would be $1,554 before any applicable deductions.

The amount deposited into a bank account may differ from the gross benefit increase. Medicare premiums, withholding and other deductions can affect the final payment, so recipients should review their individual notices before calculating how much additional money they will have available.

How to check your new Social Security benefit amount

Beneficiaries do not need to wait for the first increased payment to learn their new monthly amount.

The SSA said people with a personal my Social Security account can access their personalized COLA notice online. Recipients who enroll in paperless notices can receive the information digitally, while those who continue receiving paper notices will get them by mail in December.

The notice includes the updated benefit amount and any applicable deductions. Medicare enrollees can also check information about their 2027 premiums through their account.

One important detail is that the November SSI payment will arrive on Friday, October 30. The payment is being issued before the month begins because November 1 falls on a Sunday. This is a calendar adjustment, not an additional benefit or an increase in the monthly payment.

What are the Social Security payment dates for November 2026?

The Social Security Administration (SSA) sets payment dates according to the beneficiary’s situation. The November schedule includes the following dates:

• Friday, October 30: November’s SSI payment for eligible recipients.
• Tuesday, November 3: Social Security recipients who began receiving benefits before May 1997, as well as people who receive both Social Security and SSI, under the agency’s payment rules.
• Tuesday, November 10: Social Security beneficiaries born between the 1st and 10th of any month. The payment is scheduled a day earlier because November 11 is Veterans Day, a federal holiday.
• Wednesday, November 18: Beneficiaries born between the 11th and 20th.
• Wednesday, November 25: Beneficiaries born between the 21st and 31st.

The schedule is published in the SSA’s official 2026 payment calendar.

Why is SSI paid before November begins?

The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program generally pays benefits on the first day of each month. When that date falls on a weekend or federal holiday, the payment is typically issued on the preceding business day.

Since November 1, 2026, falls on a Sunday, the SSA has scheduled the November SSI deposit for Friday, October 30.

Receiving the money in October does not mean beneficiaries will receive an extra SSI payment for November. It is the regular monthly benefit, paid early because of the calendar.

SSI provides financial assistance to eligible people who have limited income and resources and are aged 65 or older, blind, or have a qualifying disability. Children with qualifying disabilities may also be eligible.

What should beneficiaries do if a payment is late?

The SSA recommends allowing three additional mailing days after the expected payment date before contacting the agency if the money has not arrived.

Beneficiaries can also check their bank account or designated payment method and review the official calendar to confirm which date applies to their benefit. For the most reliable information, they should use the Social Security Administration’s official website and payment resources.

Provisionally named 2026 ED138, the object is located in a region beyond Neptune’s orbit. Initial estimates suggest it could measure between 370 and 930 miles in diameter, making it one of the largest potential dwarf planets identified in that distant region.

If additional observations confirm its characteristics, ED138 could become the sixth officially recognized dwarf planet, joining Pluto, Ceres, Eris, Haumea and Makemake. However, researchers have not yet established its exact dimensions or confirmed that it meets the necessary classification criteria.

What scientists know about the object discovered beyond Pluto

ED138 is currently located approximately 46 astronomical units from the Sun. One astronomical unit represents the average distance between Earth and the Sun. By comparison, Pluto orbits at an average distance of around 40 astronomical units.

This makes the newly identified body a trans-Neptunian object, a category that includes celestial bodies orbiting the Sun beyond Neptune.

Its estimated size is particularly significant. To qualify as a dwarf planet, an object must have enough mass for its own gravity to pull it into an approximately spherical shape. Scientists believe ED138 could meet this condition because icy objects of its estimated dimensions are generally expected to become rounded under their own gravity.

Still, brightness and distance alone cannot establish its precise size. Further observations, particularly in infrared wavelengths, will help researchers determine its physical characteristics and whether it qualifies for the classification.

How the Vera C. Rubin Observatory detected the distant world

The discovery came from an analysis of observations collected by the Simonyi Survey Telescope at the Vera C. Rubin Observatory. On October 13, astrophysicist Matthew Holman identified the object while processing data with a computer program designed to track moving bodies.

The software compares billions of detections to identify observations that correspond to the same moving object. After noticing ED138’s unusual brightness and distance, Holman began checking the results to rule out possible errors.

Additional research uncovered more observations in Rubin’s own records, including images dating back to March 2026. Scientists also located the object in archival images from other surveys taken as early as 2016, allowing them to reconstruct more than a decade of its orbital path.

The object had remained difficult to identify because it appeared against a crowded region of the sky near the Milky Way’s plane, where millions of stars can obscure faint celestial bodies.

Why this discovery could change what scientists know about the solar system

The possible classification of ED138 is important beyond the number of dwarf planets in the solar system. Studying distant trans-Neptunian objects helps astronomers investigate how the solar system formed and how the giant planets influenced the movement of smaller bodies over billions of years.

ED138’s orbit is tilted by nearly 25 degrees relative to the plane of the solar system. Researchers classify it as a hot-classical trans-Neptunian object, a characteristic that suggests gravitational interactions with Neptune may have altered its original orbit.

The benefit, known as the Adoption Tax Credit, applies to international, domestic, private and public foster care adoptions. However, not every family automatically qualifies for the maximum amount. Eligibility depends on the type of adoption, the expenses incurred and the taxpayer’s modified adjusted gross income.

Although the credit applies to adoptions and eligible expenses during 2026, families will claim it when they file their federal income tax returns in 2027.

There is also a partially refundable component. For tax year 2026, up to $5,120 per eligible child can be refunded, even if the taxpayer does not owe that much in federal income taxes.

Who qualifies for the IRS adoption tax credit in 2026?

The IRS establishes several requirements for families seeking to claim the benefit. The first is having qualified adoption expenses for an eligible child.

To qualify, the child generally must be:

• Under 18 years old when the adoption takes place.
• Physically or mentally incapable of taking care of themselves, regardless of age.

There is also an income requirement. For tax year 2026, the IRS uses the taxpayer’s modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) to determine whether the full credit is available.

The income thresholds are:

• $265,080 or less: taxpayers may claim the full credit for which they qualify.
• Between $265,081 and $305,079: the available credit is gradually reduced.
• $305,080 or more: taxpayers cannot claim the credit.

Married taxpayers generally must file a joint return to qualify, although the IRS provides exceptions for certain circumstances.

Which adoption expenses can families include?

The tax benefit is designed to cover reasonable and necessary costs directly related to the legal adoption of a child.

According to the IRS, eligible expenses include:

• Adoption agency fees and other adoption-related charges.
• Attorney fees and court costs.
• Travel expenses, including meals and lodging, when traveling for the adoption.
• Home study fees and other costs incurred before identifying a child.
• Additional expenses directly connected to the legal adoption process.

However, some payments are excluded. Families cannot claim expenses related to adopting a spouse’s child, surrogate parent arrangements or costs already reimbursed by an employer or paid through a federal, state or local government program.

The same expense also cannot be used to claim another federal tax credit or deduction.

How much of the $17,670 can the IRS actually refund?

One of the most important distinctions is that the maximum adoption credit is not entirely refundable.

For tax year 2026, the IRS allows up to $5,120 per qualifying child to be refundable. This means eligible taxpayers may receive that portion even if their federal income tax liability is lower than the credit amount.

The remaining nonrefundable portion can generally be carried forward for up to five years. Any amount that remains unused after that period is forfeited.

The maximum amount applies separately to each eligible child, not once per household or per calendar year. However, if a family has already claimed part of the credit for the same adoption in a previous tax year, that amount must be deducted from the remaining available credit.

There is also a special provision for children with special needs. If a state or federally recognized Indian tribal government determines that an eligible U.S. child has special needs under the IRS rules, the family may qualify for the full credit even if it did not pay qualified adoption expenses.

When and how to claim the adoption credit

Families who meet the requirements must complete Form 8839, Qualified Adoption Expenses, and attach it to their federal income tax return. For the refundable portion of the 2026 credit, taxpayers must also complete Schedule 3-A (Form 1040).

Because this article concerns the 2026 tax year, eligible taxpayers will generally claim the credit when they file their returns in 2027.

The form requires information about the child and the eligible expenses. Taxpayers can identify the child using a Social Security number, an Adoption Taxpayer Identification Number (ATIN) or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), depending on the circumstances.

The timing depends on the type of adoption. For domestic adoptions that have been finalized, eligible expenses can generally be claimed in the year they are paid. If a domestic adoption is still in progress, the credit is generally claimed the following year. For international adoptions, eligible expenses are claimed in the year the adoption becomes final.

The IRS also allows certain employer-provided adoption benefits to be excluded from taxable income. However, families cannot use the same expenses to claim both the income exclusion and the adoption credit.

Before filing, taxpayers should keep receipts, court documents and other records supporting their adoption expenses. The IRS recommends reviewing the eligibility rules and Form 8839 instructions to determine the amount they can claim.

Known as the Trump Dividend, the plan would distribute money connected to the government’s revenue from tariffs on imported goods. However, no law has authorized the payment, and there is no federal program through which Americans can apply.

That means the promise is still on the table, but there is no guarantee that households will receive the money. Implementation would depend on political decisions, available funding and the conditions eventually established for the program.

Who could qualify for Trump’s $5,000 check?

In his September 9 announcement, Trump said he would issue $5,000 to every adult U.S. citizen if Republicans maintain control of both chambers of Congress. That statement provides the basis for the proposal, but it is not an official list of eligible recipients.

Vice President JD Vance suggested that people with high incomes could be excluded. However, the administration has not published an income threshold or explained how individual financial circumstances would be assessed.

Until those conditions are established, it is impossible to confirm which groups would receive the money or whether every eligible recipient would get the same amount.

For immigrants living in the United States, another distinction matters: Trump’s initial promise referred to adult citizens. Therefore, permanent residents with Green Cards, visa holders and people without U.S. citizenship should not assume they would automatically qualify.

The proposal also lacks finalized rules for households with different citizenship statuses, married couples filing joint tax returns and families with children.

Why Trump’s $5,000 check has not been approved

The main obstacle is congressional authorization. The U.S. Constitution requires federal spending to be authorized by law. As a result, Congress must approve the funding before the government can distribute a payment of this scale.

The estimated cost raises additional questions. According to an analysis by the Tax Foundation, sending $5,000 to approximately 250 million adults could cost around $1.25 trillion in a single round of payments.

The proposal points to tariff revenue as a potential funding source, but those collections may not be sufficient to cover the entire program. The Tax Foundation estimated that new tariffs could generate approximately $1.4 trillion in net revenue over the decade from 2026 through 2035, while the proposed dividend could cost more than $1 trillion in a single distribution.

The final price tag would also depend on any income restrictions and the number of people eligible to receive the money. Without a complete legislative proposal, the government has not established the program’s total cost or how any funding gap would be addressed.

When would the $5,000 dividend be paid?

For now, there is no official payment date. Trump linked the promise to Republicans retaining control of Congress after the midterm elections, but that outcome would not automatically trigger bank deposits or the issuance of checks.

The program’s terms would first need to be defined, funding approved and an agency designated to administer the payments. Officials would also have to publish eligibility requirements and explain how recipients’ identities would be verified.

According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), a deceased person’s debts are generally paid with the money and assets they left behind, under state law. If that estate is not enough to cover them, the debt may go unpaid unless someone else is legally responsible.

When do you have to pay your deceased spouse’s debts?

The CFPB says there are situations in which the surviving spouse can be responsible for certain financial obligations.

Among the main exceptions are:

• Joint loans: when the person is a co-signer on their spouse’s loan.
• Joint credit cards: when both people are account holders. Being only an authorized user does not create the same responsibility.
• States with community property laws: where certain debts incurred during the marriage may be shared responsibility.
• State laws on necessary expenses: some jurisdictions impose payment obligations for certain essential expenses, such as medical care.

Responsibility depends on the type of debt, who signed the contract and the applicable state law.

What should you do if someone demands payment on a debt after your spouse dies?

The CFPB says getting a call from a collection agency does not mean you personally owe the money.

Collectors may contact the surviving spouse or whoever is handling the deceased person’s estate. However, they cannot falsely claim that person must pay with their own money.

If you get a demand, the agency recommends asking for the debt details in writing and checking whether there is a legal obligation.

If the person believes they do not owe the debt, they can dispute the debt in writing. If they send the dispute within 30 days of receiving the validation notice, the collector must stop contacting them until it verifies the debt in writing.

The agency also recommends seeking legal advice to determine which obligations apply and what protections exist under federal and state law.

According to Arm & Hammer, adding baking soda with detergent helps strengthen its cleaning power during the wash. The brand says the ingredient can be especially useful for items that hold odors, such as athletic wear or work clothes.

What is baking soda used for in the washing machine?

Baking soda can be used as a supplement to regular detergent. One of its main benefits is that it helps neutralize odors by balancing pH levels during the wash.

The company also says this ingredient helps soften water, which can improve the effectiveness of cleaning products.

That can make it useful for washing clothes that hold sweat odors or need to regain freshness after several wears.

However, baking soda does not replace detergent; it is added as a supplement during the wash cycle.

How much baking soda should you put in the washing machine?

Arm & Hammer recommends using half a cup of baking soda during the wash and, for extra freshness, adding another half cup during the rinse cycle.

The brand recommends the following steps:

1. Put the clothes in the washing machine.
2. Add half a cup of baking soda.
3. Add your regular detergent.
4. Start the wash cycle.
5. Add another half cup of baking soda during the rinse cycle.

The recommendation calls for using baking soda with detergent, without replacing your usual laundry products.

What kind of clothes can benefit from baking soda?

This method can be useful for clothes that tend to pick up odors after everyday use, especially athletic wear, work clothes and items exposed to sweat.

The goal is to complement cleaning and help clothes retain a fresh feel after washing.

Before using it, it is a good idea to check garment care labels and the washing machine manufacturer’s instructions, especially when it comes to delicate fabrics or machines with specific requirements.

That is according to the IA Family Handbook from the U.S. Navy Bureau of Medicine and Surgery, which recommends it for these situations as part of the instructions for people whose vehicle breaks down while driving.

Because the vehicle must stop because of an emergency, placing a white cloth or shirt of that color outside allows others to see that the vehicle is stopped.

Tying a White Cloth to a Car Door Handle: Other Measures Recommended for Drivers in an Emergency

If your vehicle breaks down or you face any other dangerous situation involving the vehicle, you are advised to raise the hood and at the same time tie a white cloth to one of the door handles to clearly signal it. In addition, it is important to:

• Move the vehicle out of traffic and park in a safe place away from the road
• Stay inside the vehicle and make sure all passengers do the same
• Lock the doors
• If you cannot move the vehicle out of the middle of the street, all passengers should get out as soon as it is safe to do so and move away from traffic
• If you do not have communication, you are advised to lower the window enough to ask for help

Another way to signal that the vehicle is parked is to use reflective triangles, which should be placed far enough away for other drivers to have time to react.

Recommendations for Driving Safely on the Road

To minimize driving problems as much as possible, you are advised to:

• Always keep the doors locked, seat belts fastened and children in their appropriate safety seats
• Make sure the fuel tank is always at least one-third full
• Drive on main roads and highways with maps
• Carry a flashlight, a blanket and a first-aid kit
• If you are taking a long trip, bring an emergency supply kit with water and nonperishable food
• If you stop to rest, do not let children go to the bathroom alone
• Always carry a cell phone in case of any emergency
• Choose a well-lit, busy place where the vehicle can be seen if you choose to travel at night
• Keep the doors closed if someone approaches while the vehicle is parked and lower the window only enough to hear what the person says.

In Virginia, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) allows applicants to request a Driver Privilege Card. To get this document, applicants must meet certain residency, identification and tax-filing requirements.

Who can get a driver privilege card in Virginia?

The Virginia DMV allows residents who are not U.S. citizens to apply for a Driver Privilege Card without having to prove legal presence in the United States.

To get this document, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be a Virginia resident and not a U.S. citizen.
• Be at least 16 years and 3 months old.
• Have reported income from Virginia over the past 12 months or been listed as dependents on a tax return filed in the state during that period.
• Have no suspended or revoked driving privilege in Virginia or another state, and have no pending vehicle insurance violations.

This permit serves only as a driver’s license and does not meet REAL ID standards, so it cannot be used to board commercial flights or enter restricted federal facilities.

How do you get a driver privilege card in Virginia?

The process depends on whether the applicant has already had a driver’s license or is applying for the document for the first time.

People who have a license issued in Virginia, another state or a foreign country can apply to exchange it for a driver privilege card as long as they meet the requirements.

By contrast, adults 18 and older who have never had a license must follow these steps, according to rules in effect through Dec. 31, 2026:

• Pass the knowledge exam and obtain a learner’s permit.
• Complete a state-approved driver education program and pass the road test, or keep the learner’s permit for at least 60 days and pass the DMV road test.
• Submit the application and required documents to the DMV.

As of Jan. 1, 2027, some requirements will change, especially for those 20 or younger applying for their first license.

What documents must be submitted to apply for this permit?

According to the Virginia DMV, all applicants must complete the driver privilege card application form and submit:

• Two proofs of identity.
• Two proofs of Virginia residency.
• Proof of a Social Security number (SSN), if one was assigned, or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
• Tax-filing documentation that verifies compliance with the tax requirement.

How much does it cost and how often must it be renewed?

The first driver privilege card costs US$50, and each renewal costs the same. As for how long it is valid, the DMV sets the following terms:

• Up to eight years: for most holders.
• Five years: for those 75 and older.
• Up to five years: for certain people subject to state registration requirements.

Renewal can be completed up to one year before expiration. If it expires, the applicant must start the application process again.

It is the Final Notice of Intent to Levy, known as Notice LT11 (or Letter 1058), and its arrival marks the moment the clock starts ticking for real. From there, the taxpayer has a limited time to act before the agency can take the money.

What the LT11 notice is

The LT11 is the formal notice through which the IRS tells taxpayers it intends to levy to collect an unpaid debt, while also informing them of their right to request a hearing. It is not the first letter to arrive: it is usually the final link in a chain of prior notices (such as CP14 and later reminders). That is why it is considered the final warning: after this, the IRS is authorized to move against assets.

The agency sends it by mail to the taxpayer’s last known address and, under its own rules, is not required to confirm that the person received it. It is the taxpayer’s responsibility to respond in time.

How long there is to fix it and when the clock starts

The deadline to act is the date listed in the notice, generally 30 days, but that period starts on the date printed in the letter, not the day you open or read it. If the notice sat in the mailbox for several days, those days already count against you. And there is one detail the IRS emphasizes: that deadline cannot be extended for any reason.

So as soon as the LT11 arrives, the wisest move is to count the days from the date on the letter and not let time slip by, because every day lost reduces the room to maneuver.

IRS levies everyone who failed to respond to this notice in time

If the days pass without a response from the taxpayer, the IRS is authorized to levy bank accounts, wages and other assets without issuing another notice. The taxpayer also loses the right to the CDP hearing that pauses collection.

It is still possible to request an “equivalent hearing” within a year, but that step does not automatically stop the levy and does not allow a later appeal to Tax Court. That is why the most valuable window is the first 30 days.

Item by item: IRS can levy all of these assets

A levy is a legal seizure of property to satisfy a debt. Once the deadline passes without a response, the IRS can go after different assets, including:

• Money in bank accounts.
• Wages, through a withholding that is applied to each paycheck until the debt is paid off or the levy is released.
• Social Security benefits.
• State tax refunds.
• Other property, such as vehicles and even a home.

According to a recommendation published by the University of Georgia, this mix can be used to clean and shine wood surfaces. However, before applying it, it is important to make sure it is compatible with the furniture’s finish.

What is the purpose of mixing olive oil, white vinegar and lemon juice?

The preparation is part of the household cleaning recommendations published by the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension.

Its purpose is to clean and polish wood surfaces using a combination of everyday ingredients.

The institution recommends using the following amounts:

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
• 2 tablespoons of white vinegar.
• 1/4 cup of lemon juice.

The recipe is intended as a homemade alternative for maintaining certain wood surfaces. However, the university warns that cleaning products should first be tested on a less visible area, since they may not be suitable for all materials.

How do you apply the mix to clean wood furniture?

According to the guidance from the University of Georgia, the process is:

1. Remove any items on the wood surface.
2. Remove dust with a clean microfiber cloth.
3. Mix the two tablespoons of olive oil with the two tablespoons of white vinegar.
4. Add 1/4 cup of lemon juice.
5. Apply the mixture with a soft cloth, rubbing in the direction of the wood grain.

Before spreading the product over the entire piece of furniture, it is recommended to test it in an inconspicuous spot to make sure it does not affect the finish.

The preparation should not be considered suitable for every type of wood or finish, so it is important to follow the care instructions for each surface.

Rights portability is for workers who contributed to both institutes, either at the same time or during different periods, and want to combine the time recognized for pension purposes. The National Retirement Savings System Commission, Consar, says each pension regime’s rules must be met.

“Your contribution periods could be recognized for pension purposes through rights portability, as long as you meet the applicable requirements. Don’t wait until the last minute to review your work history”, AFORE PENSIONISSSTE said.

The process is not automatic and must be started with the relevant social security institute. According to information published by Consar on September 12, 2023, applicants must prove their contributions and obtain the certificate of recognized periods before continuing with the pension request.

What is rights portability and who is it for?

Pension rights portability is the mechanism that allows contribution periods recorded with IMSS and ISSSTE to be recognized for pension purposes. It also covers the transfer of the corresponding funds from individual accounts, in line with the conditions established for the process.

Consar says this option is available to people who have contributed to both institutes, either at the same time or in separate periods. The goal is for the time recognized in each system to be counted when filing for a pension, as long as the applicable requirements are met.

Requirements to complete the process, according to Consar

Before requesting portability, it is necessary to verify the pension regime and age, as well as have the documents needed to prove work history. Consar sets out the following conditions to begin the rights recognition process between the two institutes:

• Contributions to both institutes: have recorded periods with IMSS and ISSSTE.
• Pension regime: belong to the 1973 or 1997 Social Security Law and the ISSSTE Individual Accounts Regime.
• Minimum age: be 60 years old. The request may be started during the year before reaching that age.
• Retention of rights: be within IMSS’s rights retention period when it comes to pensions under the 1973 Social Security Law.
• Certificate of recognized periods: have the corresponding certificate to prove contribution periods between the two institutes.

In addition, the process requires an official photo ID, the Unique Population Registry Code (CURP), the election document or printout of the Single Electronic File proving the ISSSTE individual accounts regime, as well as the Afore account statement.

How and where is the portability process completed?

The request must be filed with the institute where the last contribution was recorded. If both regimes ended at the same time, the person may go to IMSS or ISSSTE, according to Consar. The process begins with a request to transfer rights.

The ways to start the process depend on the institution where the request is filed. The receiving institute will ask for the information needed on contribution periods and base wages or basic salaries to determine the time recognized in both systems.

• If the process is filed with IMSS: the request may be submitted in person at the nearest subdelegation office or online through IMSS Digital.
• If it is filed with ISSSTE: it must be submitted in person at the Benefits Subdelegation offices of the state and regional representations.
• Recognition certificate: once this stage is complete, you receive the IMSS Contribution Weeks Certificate with the ISSSTE period total, or the ISSSTE Contribution Periods Report.
• Pension application: after recognition, the pension process must continue with the same institute where the transfer request was filed. The person must have been removed from the mandatory regimes of both institutions, including voluntary continuation.
• Transfer of funds: the institute granting the pension will ask the relevant Afore to transfer the funds from the subaccounts that will be used to finance it. Any excess balances or funds in unused subaccounts will remain under Afore management and may be withdrawn under the applicable procedure.

Consar says the rights transfer process has a reference timeline of 30 business days. For pension decisions, the procedures catalog sets 90 business days for the ISSSTE ordinary regime and 12 business days for IMSS early retirement or old-age pensions. The timelines refer to different stages of the process.

Once the pension decision or award is issued, the person may request from their Afore the withdrawal of the funds they are entitled to. To do so, they must have their identification and biometric registration file complete, present official ID, the pension decision and a CLABE bank account in their name. Consar says the deposit will be made within five business days after the withdrawal request is received.

The actor wrote that reflection in a piece published in 2011, on the 10th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks, as he recalled how that day transformed his life.

It was the starting point of a period of service that led him to found organizations and devote much of his time to the armed forces and emergency responders. He later captured that same idea in his autobiography, Grateful American: A Journey from Self to Service.

From Lt. Dan to service for veterans

The role of Lt. Dan, a soldier who loses his legs in the Vietnam War, earned Sinise his only Oscar nomination and gave him a deep bond with U.S. veterans. That connection was sealed just weeks after the film’s 1994 release, when a disabled veterans group wanted to honor him.

“There were 3,000 people in that hall. Everyone who could stand was on their feet, giving me a standing ovation. I was so moved and so caught off guard”, the actor recalled in comments to CBS.

He was especially struck by the irony: “I’m an actor; I play roles. These people lived the role I played and were injured, some severely, and they applauded me for simply playing a part”.

From there, he became deeply involved in that world, and in 2011 he created the Gary Sinise Foundation, dedicated to supporting service members, veterans, first responders, and families of the fallen. In addition to the social logistics, Sinise led the Lt. Dan Band, which put on concerts for troops and organizations tied to service.

What is Snowball Express, the annual Disney trip organized by Sinise

One of the foundation’s signature programs is Snowball Express, an annual trip that brings together the families of fallen service members and first responders each December for a five-day retreat at Walt Disney World in Orlando.

According to Walt Disney Company’s official website, since 2018 more than 23,000 children of fallen service members and their guardians have taken part in the program and traveled to Disney World.

In December 2025 alone, the program brought about 1,722 members of those families, mostly children who lost a parent, to the experience. Sinise traveled with them, as he does every year.

“You can’t underestimate the power of bringing all these kids together in a happy environment, because we’re trying to bring them joy right before the holidays, which is a difficult time for a child who has lost a parent,” he told The Hollywood Reporter.

Gary Sinise’s main goal with his Disney trips

The broader goal, according to the actor, is not just the trip but the support that comes with it. It’s about bringing those children together with others going through the same thing so they don’t feel isolated in their grief.

“The most important thing about Snowball Express is that these kids don’t feel alone. There’s a lot of healing, a lot of bonds and a lot of friendship that help them throughout the rest of the year,” Sinise said in the same interview.

The actor acknowledges it is a job with two sides. “It’s comforting because it makes you feel good to see the kids laughing and having fun, but it’s also heartbreaking because you know why they’re there”, he admitted.

In his own words, he summed up the idea that guides his second life, far from the spotlight: “We want to take care of these kids and make sure they know we haven’t forgotten them”.

A scientific study published in 2018 in the Journal of Agricultural Science analyzed how the concentration of acetic acid affects the control of different weed species. The research, recorded in the AGRIS system of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), also evaluated application volume and the addition of other ingredients to determine which conditions produced the best results.

How vinegar works on weeds and why it can dry them out

The main active ingredient in vinegar for fighting weeds is acetic acid. According to the study, this substance can destroy plant cell membranes, causing dehydration of plant tissue and, under certain conditions, the plant’s death.

For that reason, vinegar has potential as a contact herbicide. That means it acts on the plant parts it hits directly, rather than working as a treatment that spreads through the entire plant.

The study notes that household vinegar typically contains 5% acetic acid, although higher commercial concentrations are also available. The researchers specifically studied different proportions to see how they changed its ability to control unwanted vegetation.

What the scientific study found about using vinegar

To test its effectiveness, the researchers carried out field trials in southeastern Oklahoma, in the United States. They evaluated three concentrations of acetic acid: 0%, 5%, and 20%. They also compared two application volumes and three options: using vinegar with no additives or combining it with orange oil or canola oil.

The results showed that weed control increased as the acetic acid concentration rose. The combination of 20% concentration, a higher application volume and canola oil achieved overall control of 74%.

In addition, acetic acid proved more effective against broadleaf weeds than against grasses. In some trials, control of broadleaf weeds reached or exceeded 84%, while the most effective treatment against grasses produced results ranging from 44% to 63%.

What is spraying vinegar on weeds for?

The study confirms that acetic acid helps reduce the presence of different weed species, although results vary depending on the concentration used and the type of plant.

The trials also showed that broadleaf species responded better to the treatment than grasses. The study mentions three specific species:

• Digitaria sanguinalis: a grass species known as large crabgrass.
• Mollugo verticillata: a broadleaf herbaceous plant.
• Oenothera laciniata: a broadleaf species of evening primrose.

Accepting this kind of job without knowing the contents of the package can implicate someone in a drug trafficking investigation and could even land them in prison. That is why authorities advise people to be wary of offers promising easy money in exchange for doing what appears to be a simple task.

Picking up a package for strangers could implicate you in a drug trafficking offense

In its Oct. 20 post, the Civil Guard explained how this kind of scam works: A person receives an offer of money to pick up a package, with no need to buy anything or arrange shipping. But behind that proposal could be an operation to bring narcotics into the country.

In that sense, it warned that even if the person has not bought or transported the drugs to Spain directly, their involvement could link them to a drug trafficking investigation if there are signs they helped distribute them or facilitated the illegal activity.

Prison terms for drug trafficking

The consequences can be especially serious. Article 368 of the Penal Code sets prison terms of one to three years when the substances do not cause serious harm to health and three to six years when the drugs can cause that kind of harm. It also provides for fines depending on the value of the substances.

The penalty can increase if aggravating circumstances apply, such as involvement in a criminal organization or trafficking in large quantities. That is why accepting a job like this can carry criminal consequences far more serious than the money offered for picking up the package.

Civil Guard urges people to be wary of easy-money offers

To avoid falling into situations like this, authorities recommend not accepting money from strangers in exchange for picking up packages whose contents are unknown. The apparent simplicity of the task does not eliminate the legal risks it can involve.

In its TikTok message, the Civil Guard was blunt: “Don’t accept money to pick up a package for strangers without knowing what’s inside. Don’t take the risk. Easy money can cost you dearly.”

The agency also summed up its warning with a direct message: “Beware of easy money. Don’t fall for it.” The goal is to keep people from becoming, without realizing the possible consequences, intermediaries for shipments used to bring drugs into Spain.

Among the rituals said to enhance its symbolism is a very specific one: placing a metal spoon in the potting soil.

The practice is associated with financial prosperity, abundance and the intention of attracting new opportunities.

Why people recommend placing a spoon in the snake plant

Within popular Feng Shui interpretations, placing a metal spoon in a plant’s soil is associated with the intention of attracting abundance, financial stability and new opportunities.

The explanation is usually tied to the five elements of this Chinese philosophy: wood, fire, earth, metal and water. Each represents a particular energy and, according to this tradition, balance among them is essential for promoting harmony in spaces.

In this context, the spoon represents the metal element, symbolically linked to clarity, organization, discipline and the ability to manage resources.

The plant’s soil, meanwhile, is associated with the earth element, which represents stability, grounding and support. The combination of both elements is interpreted as a way to reinforce the intention of building a more orderly financial life and opening the door to new opportunities.

What the snake plant means in Feng Shui

The snake plant, also known as sansevieria, is associated with protection, strength and resilience. Its long, upright leaves are interpreted in some contemporary schools of Feng Shui as a symbol of protective energy capable of shielding the environment from negative influences.

Its steady growth is also symbolically linked to progress and vitality. For that reason, some people choose it to support intentions of well-being, renewal and prosperity at home.

Where to place the snake plant to attract abundance

Plant placement matters in Feng Shui, since each area of the home is linked to different aspects of life. In current interpretations of the Bagua map, the southeast is connected with wealth and prosperity, while the entrance can be used to represent protection and welcome.

That is why those who follow these recommendations often consider three places:

• The southeast area of the home: associated with abundance and financial growth.
• The front door: represents protection and the arrival of new opportunities.
• The workspace: linked to professional development, focus and personal projects.

How to do the spoon ritual to attract prosperity

Those who want to incorporate this practice can place a clean metal spoon on the surface of the soil or next to the pot and pair the gesture with a specific intention, such as improving finances, starting a project or opening up to new opportunities.

This homemade method has gained ground because of its low cost and its effectiveness in disinfecting, combating moisture, eliminating persistent odors, and acting as a natural insect repellent.

What is the purpose of applying vinegar on the mattress?

The mattress tends to accumulate odors, dust and dirt that are not always removed with basic cleaning. This is where vinegar comes in, a key ally that helps improve bedroom hygiene, prolongs the mattress’s useful life, and contributes to achieving deeper, healthier rest.

One of the main reasons for using vinegar in this area is its ability to disinfect and neutralize odors. Although it does not completely remove stains, vinegar softens dirt and acts as a natural neutralizer, ideal for closed or poorly ventilated spaces.

In addition, this method is used as a repellent for small insects. The acidic smell of white vinegar helps drive away pests that usually hide in less visible areas. That is why spraying vinegar on the mattress can be a practical alternative to more invasive chemical products.

How to apply it correctly

To make the most of its benefits, it is enough to prepare a simple mixture of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Then, it is recommended to spray the mixture on the mattress, let it act for at least one hour, vacuum or scrub the stains, and let it dry.

Ideally, apply the mixture on both sides of the mattress and wait for it to dry completely before putting it back on the bed.

How often should the mattress be cleaned?

Keeping the mattress clean is key to preventing stains, dust mites, moisture, and premature wear. Although for a long time it was believed that it should not be touched, the reality is that it requires periodic care.

With simple habits, such as airing it out every day for 15 to 20 minutes and changing the sheets once a week, it is possible to prolong its useful life, improve bedroom hygiene, and sleep much better.

As for cleaning frequency, it is recommended to vacuum the mattress every 7 or 15 days to remove dust and particles that encourage the appearance of dust mites. In addition, it is important to wash the mattress protector every 15 days or once a month, since it acts as the first barrier against dirt.

The wheels are one of the parts most exposed to dust, dirt, and moisture, since they are in direct contact with the ground in airports, train stations and busy streets.

In this regard, the travel consultant and CEO of Sikkim Expeditions, DK Ghatani, explained what this method is for, why it can be useful, and what precautions should be kept in mind before putting it into practice.

What is the purpose of placing adhesive tape on suitcase wheels and why is it recommended before traveling

Covering the wheels with adhesive tape can help reduce the buildup of dust, dirt, and other debris during the trip According to Ghatani, speaking to The Indian Express, the method is a “temporary protective measure that can prevent loose dirt, dust, and grime from accumulating directly on the surface of the wheels” and he added that he recommends it “especially when luggage is dragged over wet sidewalks, dusty paths, or dirty airport areas”.

Ghatani clarified that it does not prevent damage caused by major impacts or stop moisture and debris from getting in through the sides of the wheels.

How to place adhesive tape on suitcase wheels without damaging them

Although tape can help keep the wheels cleaner, it is important to apply it correctly since it “may interfere with the wheels’ function,” according to the travel consultant.

The specialist detailed that tape that is too thick, loose, or that sticks out from the wheel surface can create uneven contact with the ground, reduce the smoothness of movement, and affect the balance of the luggage. In this regard, he pointed out that adhesive residue can attract dust and particles, which could make the wheels harder to rotate.

To avoid these problems, it is advisable to take some precautions:

• Do not cover moving parts: avoid letting the tape go over the joints, bearings, or axles of the wheels.
• Avoid thick or loose applications: the tape should be placed properly, without protruding from the wheel surface or interfering with its movement.
• Clean the wheels before and after travel: removing hair and particles accumulated around the axles helps preserve their function.

Ghatani also recommended prioritizing regular maintenance of luggage over this trick. According to him, cleaning the wheels, removing debris, and checking that they spin freely is more effective for keeping them in good condition.

“Tape can be useful as a short-term precaution, especially during storage or when transporting luggage through particularly dirty environments, but it should not be considered a substitute for proper wheel maintenance,” the specialist concluded.

One inexpensive alternative is to place a sheet of aluminum foil at the bottom of the drawer. The idea is to create a removable layer that can be taken out and replaced when it becomes dirty, instead of having to scrub the entire surface every time a small mess occurs.

What putting aluminum foil in kitchen drawers is for

The main purpose of lining a drawer with aluminum foil is to make everyday maintenance easier. Depending on how the drawer is used, it may offer several practical advantages.

• Easier cleanup: Crumbs and certain food residues can be removed along with the foil, reducing the need to scrub the drawer itself.
• A barrier against spills: The material can help keep small spills from immediately contacting the drawer’s base, provided the foil remains intact and is removed promptly after a spill.
• Protection against stains: A removable layer may help limit direct contact between the drawer surface and grease or food residue.
• Low cost: Aluminum foil is inexpensive and easy to cut to fit different drawer sizes.
• Simple replacement: When the sheet becomes dirty, torn or wrinkled, it can be discarded and replaced.

These benefits are most relevant in drawers used to store dry utensils, measuring spoons, kitchen tools or other items that may leave crumbs and residue behind.

However, aluminum foil does not absorb moisture. If water becomes trapped beneath it, the drawer’s surface may remain damp, potentially damaging wood or laminate over time. For that reason, it is important to keep the drawer dry and inspect the area underneath the foil regularly.

How to put aluminum foil in kitchen drawers

The process requires only a few basic steps and does not involve special tools.

1. Empty the drawer. Remove cutlery, utensils, organizers and any other stored items.
2. Clean the surface. Remove crumbs, dust and grease using a cloth and a suitable mild cleaning solution.
3. Dry it completely. Before adding the foil, make sure the drawer has no visible moisture.
4. Measure the base. Cut a sheet of aluminum foil to fit the bottom of the drawer without interfering with its opening and closing.
5. Lay the foil flat. Smooth it gently so that it covers the intended area without large folds or loose edges.
6. Return the items. Put the utensils and organizers back once the foil is in place.

How often should aluminum foil be replaced?

There is no universal replacement schedule for aluminum foil used in drawers. The frequency depends on how often the drawer is used and whether food residue, grease or moisture reaches the lining.

Check it periodically and replace it when it becomes dirty, torn or damp. If moisture appears underneath, remove the foil, dry the drawer completely and investigate the source before putting a new sheet in place.

The key is to use aluminum foil as a simple aid for collecting everyday dirt, not as a substitute for proper kitchen hygiene or routine cabinet maintenance.

The symbol is used to identify HOV (High-Occupancy Vehicle) lanes, a type of roadway setup on highways. The rules include occupancy requirements and penalties that drivers should know before using these lanes.

What the White Diamond Painted on the Pavement Means

The white diamond painted on certain lanes identifies a roadway reserved for high-occupancy vehicles, known as HOV lanes, designed to encourage carpooling and allow vehicles carrying several people to use a designated part of the road.

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) includes this symbol in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), the document that sets national standards for traffic signs and pavement markings. The current edition is the 11th, with Revision 1 published in December 2025.

Who Can Use HOV Lanes

HOV lanes are intended primarily for vehicles carrying a minimum number of people. Section 166 of Title 23 of the U.S. Code says that, as a general rule, at least two occupants per vehicle may be required.

However, federal rules include exceptions, since 23 U.S.C. § 166(b)(2) says authorities must allow motorcycles and bicycles to use these lanes. The exception applies when the authority shows that their use poses a safety risk and the federal government accepts that justification.

What Fines Drivers Can Face for Using These Lanes Without Meeting the Requirements

Driving in an HOV lane without meeting the access conditions can be a traffic violation. However, penalties depend on each state’s laws, since the amount can vary depending on where the road is located and the number of prior violations.

The eviction had initially been set for Jan. 1, 2027, but the date was moved up by more than a month. “If we don’t find a home, these 30 cats will end up on the street”, the group warned on social media.

Among them are kittens and adult cats, so the group is asking for help from people willing to offer them a permanent or temporary home.

How to adopt one of the cats looking for a home in Tarragona

Vallen Cats has an open appeal to find families who can take in the animals before Nov. 29. The effort includes both permanent adoptions and foster homes that can protect them while a long-term solution is arranged.

The volunteers have already managed to arrange nearly 10 adoptions, but they still need to find a solution for about 20 cats.

“If you can open your home to one of them, send us a private message”, the shelter’s leaders said. Among the cats still needing a family are Mochi, Nala, Simba, Leonard, and Patricia.

People interested in helping can contact the group directly through the following channels:

• Email: vallencatsrp@gmail.com
• Phone: 635 72 59 99
• Instagram: @vallen.cats

The organization is also asking for help spreading the campaign. “It is vital that this message reaches as many people as possible today,” the volunteers said, noting that expanding the reach of their posts is essential to finding new families.

Why is the shelter closing, and how can you help the cats

The closure of the temporary space is forcing Vallen Cats to look for a new location to continue its animal rescue and protection work. However, a lack of funding is one of the main obstacles to moving the animals.

Faced with this situation, the leaders launched a crowdfunding campaign on GoFundMe to raise 1600 euros. The money will allow them to install cat doors at the Revolucion Pata site, a necessary improvement to make the space suitable and continue caring for the cats.

According to figures released on Oct. 27, the campaign had raised nearly 700 euros. In addition to financial contributions, the group is accepting donations of dry food, wet food, and litter to cover the cats’ needs while they await relocation.

Vallen Cats founders Sheila and Dunia stressed that public support is essential to keep the animals from losing their shelter. “Giving up is not an option, but we can’t do it alone”, they said.

However, there are more Spaniards living in the country than people registered in CERA. The Register of Spaniards Residing Abroad (PERE) recorded 236,394 Spaniards living in the country as of Jan. 1, 2026.

To vote in these elections from abroad, it is necessary to appear on the corresponding electoral roll, so not all Spaniards living abroad necessarily qualify as voters in these elections.

The difference is explained by the fact that PERE records Spanish nationals living outside the country, while CERA includes voters who are eligible to cast ballots.

Are all Spaniards living in the United States included in the voter rolls?

Not necessarily. To vote from the United States as a permanent resident, it is necessary to be registered as a resident in the Consular Registration Registry and appear in the CERA corresponding to the election. The rolls in force for these elections were closed Aug. 1, 2026, although claims accepted during the period set by the government will be included in the final rolls.

The period to check the data and file claims for inclusion, exclusion or errors will run from Oct. 12 to Oct. 19, inclusive. That is why the figure of 211,749 voters serves as a reference for the rolls closed in August, but it may change after those claims are resolved.

The INE allows voters to check their registration on the electoral roll. During an election, the inquiry also shows data related to participation in that vote. Spaniards living abroad can verify their status through the agency’s online portal.

How do you vote from the United States in the Nov. 29 election?

Spaniards permanently living in the United States who appear in CERA do not need to request a ballot in advance. They can vote by mail or cast a ballot in a box set up at their consulate or corresponding voting center. Election materials are sent to the address listed in the registry.

For in-person voting, CERA voters may cast their ballots at the consulates and designated centers between Nov. 21 and Nov. 26, inclusive. For mail voting, the ballot must arrive at the consulate or designated center no later than Nov. 24.

The process also covers Spaniards who are temporarily in the United States during the election. In that case, if they are registered as nonresidents in the Consular Registration Registry, they can use the ERTA procedure, which requires requesting election materials before Oct. 31.

What documents do you need to vote from abroad?

CERA voters will receive the election materials needed to cast a ballot. These include

• Ballots and voting envelopes.
• Certificates of registration on the voter roll.
• And the envelope addressed to the Provincial Electoral Board.

For mail voting, the voter must place the voting envelope containing the ballot and the certificate of registration on the voter roll inside the envelope addressed to the Provincial Electoral Board. In addition, they must include:

• A photocopy of a Spanish national ID card or passport,
• Or a certificate of nationality
• Or proof of registration in the Consular Registration Registry issued by the consulate.

If the voter chooses to cast a ballot in person, they must prove their identity to the consular officer and present the second certificate of registration on the voter roll. Consular staff will check the documents and stamp the envelope before it is deposited.

The device, which belongs to Bolt, entered a crosswalk while the light was against it. While the city transport company said the robot left before police arrived, Starship Technologies, which developed it, blamed a technical problem and gave a different account of what happened after the collision.

How the crash that left nine passengers injured happened

A camera mounted on the bus recorded the moment when both vehicles collided and the device was pushed across the roadway. After the impact, the robot left the scene before police arrived.

A company spokesman said that behavior could carry legal consequences, while Andrei Novikov, a member of its management team, said the circumstances should be investigated by the authorities.

Starship Technologies, the company behind the devices, blamed the robot’s behavior on a failure to interpret the signals. Pepe Aaviksoo, the company’s chief operating officer, said darkness and a lit billboard behind the traffic lights may have confused the system. He also said the pedestrian and vehicle signals lined up from the device’s point of view, which would have made them harder to identify.

What the company said about the robot’s apparent getaway

Aaviksoo added that the unit’s light sensor did not work properly and that the company will work to fix the problem. He also said the absence of vehicles approaching the robot may have influenced its decision to cross. The executive said: “There are many lessons to learn, but exceptional situations do happen.”

The Starship executive also rejected the idea that the device fled immediately after the crash. According to his explanation, it remained at the scene for about 10 minutes and then contacted the support team so it could be moved off the roadway.

According to Santa Clara, California’s municipal utility, Silicon Valley Power, knowing the energy cost of appliances can help determine which ones are best to keep on for the least amount of time and which to buy if you’re looking for better options.

How is consumption measured to control costs?

Electricity use is measured in kWh, and to calculate how much it costs to run an appliance, multiply the energy it uses by the price of each kWh.

According to the latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) via FRED, the average electricity price in September 2026 was $0.196 per kWh in September 2026.

As a guide, you can use the following figures based on that average price:

• 100 kWh: $19.60.
• 200 kWh: $39.20.
• 300 kWh: $58.80.
• 400 kWh: $78.40.
• 500 kWh: $98.00
• 1,000 kWh: $196.00.

It is recommended that you check the figures on your bills so you can make calculations tailored to each case.

Which appliances use the most electricity in the United States?

Appliance use can be divided into three categories, depending on power and how long they run.

High-use appliances that run continuously

Even if they are not always the most powerful, these appliances can drive up electricity costs because they run for much of the day:

• Older refrigerator: About 72 kWh per month.
• Energy Star refrigerator: Between 28 and 63 kWh per month.
• Electric water heater: About 440 kWh per month.
• Heat pump water heater: Between 77 and 111.8 kWh per month.

High peak-power appliances

These are appliances that use electric heating elements to generate heat or high-powered motors. If used for long periods, they can cause significant increases in the electricity bill:

• Electric oven: 2.3 kWh per hour of use.
• Central air conditioner: 3 kWh per hour of use.
• Portable electric heater: 1.5 kWh per hour of use.
• Clothes dryer: 3.25 kWh per load.
• Dishwasher with a normal cycle: 1.59 kWh per load.
• Washing machine with hot water and warm rinse: 6.3 kWh per load.

Low-level standby use

Some devices keep using electricity even when they are not actively in use. That is the case for televisions, video game consoles, cable boxes, microwaves with clocks, and plugged-in cell phone chargers.

This is known as phantom load or standby power, and although it is usually small, it can add up over time.

Examples include:

• Computer in sleep mode: Between 0.001 and 0.006 kWh per hour.
• Cable box: About 11.58 kWh per month.
• Roku: About 2.18 kWh per month.

What are Silicon Valley Power’s tips for saving energy?

The utility offers several recommendations to cut electricity use in the home and avoid unnecessary bills.

The main tips include:

• Adjust the thermostat.
• Take advantage of natural light.
• Use appliances efficiently.
• Reduce hot water use.
• Avoid phantom load.
• Maintain heating and cooling systems.
• Choose efficient appliances (with inverter technology).
• Use LED lighting.
• Turn off unnecessary devices.