Police have not confirmed Giamanco’s identity. Bend Police Chief Mike Krantz said the suspect, a 16-year-old boy, was stopped by a community member who spotted him going into the school and went in after him. Police are withholding the names of everyone involved.

The children killed were 5, 8 and 11 years old, Krantz said. Two more people are in critical condition at St. Charles Medical Center in Bend: a 7-year-old student and a 54-year-old teacher. Police said every victim’s family has been informed.

Who is Kaylub Giamanco, the dad who stopped the Oregon school shooting gunman?

Giamanco has lived in Bend his whole life. He was in his car near the school, heard what was happening and rushed into the building, according to a statement his family gave ABC News.

The family confirmed that he has a concealed-carry permit. Relatives called him “thoughtful and empathetic” and said the shooting has overwhelmed him, and that he is pained he couldn’t save more people.

He isn’t asking for credit, the statement said. What he wants is for first responders, Silver Rail staff and his neighbors in Bend to know he’s grateful for the support they’ve shown.

Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek credited him with acting “heroically” to prevent more deaths. At the White House on Friday, President Donald Trump told reporters the man was “a great hero” whose actions kept the toll from climbing higher.

The family, his two daughters included, asked for privacy and is declining all interviews.

How did the Oregon school shooting at Silver Rail Elementary unfold?

Krantz shared a preliminary timeline Thursday evening at Bend City Hall, noting that investigators were still piecing together parts of what happened.

The first sign of trouble came outside the building. A driver in the parking lot noticed someone heading for the school with a long gun, a category that includes rifles and shotguns, and challenged him, Krantz said. The gunman opened fire on the man and his pickup.

Police said the gunman then tossed the weapon over the school’s fence and scaled it. The driver called 911 at 12:59 p.m. Police haven’t said whether he is the same person who later shot the suspect.

Once on campus, the teen fired his way past locked doors to get inside, police said. Within a minute, dozens of 911 callers were reporting a gunman in the building. Dispatch sent an alert to all law enforcement at 1 p.m., and Bend police reached the school at 1:01 p.m.

By then, the shooting was nearly over. An officer soon reported that a civilian had already shot the suspect, and officers who went in found him dead. They searched the entire building to make sure no one else posed a danger before turning to the wounded.

Police have not released a motive.

Where can Bend families find support after the Oregon school shooting?

Bend-La Pine Schools canceled classes districtwide Friday. Anyone who needs to talk can meet with crisis counselors at the Deschutes Central Library, starting at 9 a.m. Friday. The service is open to the public.

Officers will remain at Silver Rail Elementary in large numbers for several days as they work the case. “This is going to be a long investigation,” Krantz said.

Journey Church on South Highway 97 served as the reunification site Thursday. Officers emptied the school one classroom at a time, and district buses brought students there to meet their families.

Caldera High School and Jewell Elementary, both nearby, were briefly locked down, and both were cleared by 2 p.m. That night, several hundred residents turned out at Drake Park to hold candles and pray for the victims.

Known as the Odello Artichoke Fields, the property was a former artichoke farm located beside the Carmel River in Monterey County. Eastwood purchased it in 1995 with his then-wife, Maggie Johnson. The land had development potential, but its location also made it valuable for managing the river’s floodwaters.

How Clint Eastwood helped preserve the California property

The land was transferred through two donations to Big Sur Land Trust, a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting natural areas in the region.

In 1997, Eastwood and Johnson donated 49 acres. In 2016, they contributed another 79 acres, expanding the amount of land available for environmental restoration.

Together, the donations totaled 128 acres, or approximately 52 hectares. The property is now part of a broader effort to restore the Carmel River floodplain and recover natural functions that have been reduced by human development and changes to the landscape.

The donations also helped prevent the transferred land from being used for residential development. Instead, the acreage became part of a conservation strategy intended to benefit both wildlife and nearby communities.

How the nature restoration project could help prevent flooding

The Carmel River FREE project aims to restore the river’s floodplain. These low-lying areas can temporarily hold and spread excess water during high flows instead of forcing it through a restricted channel or toward populated areas.

Plans include restoring riverside habitats and wetlands, improving water movement and removing or modifying certain barriers that interfere with the river’s natural flow. The project also includes measures to improve drainage beneath State Route 1 and reconnect natural areas separated by infrastructure.

The goal is to reduce flood exposure for homes and businesses while restoring habitats used by fish, birds and other wildlife.

Floodplain restoration cannot eliminate flooding altogether. Instead, it can give water more room to spread naturally and help reduce damage during certain high-water events.

Why the project matters for wildlife and local communities

Environmental recovery is another central part of Carmel River FREE. Wetlands and riverside habitats can provide shelter, food and breeding areas for wildlife while supporting the river’s broader ecosystem.

The initiative also envisions expanding public access to natural spaces through trails connecting areas such as Carmel River State Beach and Palo Corona Regional Park.

That means the project goes beyond flood management. It also aims to preserve the landscape, reconnect habitats and create more opportunities for residents and visitors to experience the area’s natural environment.

What remains before the Carmel River restoration is complete

Although Eastwood’s donations provided important land for the initiative, additional funding and infrastructure work are still needed to complete the project.

Published information about Carmel River FREE puts the remaining project cost at approximately $57.5 million. Some funding has been secured through grants, while other resources remain subject to funding processes and approvals.

The donated land is therefore a significant foundation for the restoration effort, but it does not mean all construction is finished or that the flood risk has been eliminated.

The story of the former artichoke farm illustrates how land with residential development potential can take on a lasting environmental role. The acreage contributed by Eastwood and his family is part of a wider effort to restore the Carmel River, protect wildlife and make nearby communities less vulnerable to flooding.

To prevent this type of situation, the Alaska Code has a title dedicated to regulating alcoholic beverages, which establishes restrictions both for establishments that sell them and for the people who consume them.

What does the Alaska Code establish regarding the entry of drunk people into liquor-selling establishments?

Title 4 of the Alaska Code is entirely devoted to alcoholic beverages and sets out a series of restrictions for intoxicated people and establishments that have licenses to sell alcohol.

According to Section 04.16.040, a person who is intoxicated is prohibited from entering or deliberately remaining in establishments authorized to sell alcoholic beverages: “Any person who violates this section shall commit the offense of prohibited access to establishments by an intoxicated person”.

In addition, Section 04.16.030 prohibits those responsible for these establishments from allowing an intoxicated person to enter, remain, or consume alcoholic beverages inside their premises. “The prohibited conduct related to an intoxicated person constitutes an offense punishable by a fine of US$500”.

Which establishments are included in this measure?

The prohibition is not limited to bars or nightlife venues, but also applies to spaces that hold licenses regulated by Title 4 of the Alaska Code.

Among the establishments covered are:

• Bars and pubs.
• Restaurants.
• Liquor stores.
• Breweries, wineries, and distilleries.
• Other authorized spaces, such as clubs, theaters, resorts, and establishments where sporting events are held.

What is the responsibility of establishments licensed to sell alcohol?

According to Section 04.16.030 of the Alaska Code, license holders, their representatives, and employees must comply with the following restrictions:

• Do not sell, give away, or exchange alcoholic beverages with intoxicated people.
• Do not allow other people to deliver or sell alcohol to an intoxicated person inside the establishment.
• Do not allow intoxicated people to enter, remain, or consume alcoholic beverages on their premises.
• Do not allow intoxicated people to sell or serve alcoholic beverages.

In addition, Section 04.16.045 establishes that establishments may not allow the consumption of alcoholic beverages when their license does not authorize it.

What happens if the rule is not complied with?

The Alaska Code establishes sanctions both for intoxicated people who enter authorized establishments and for businesses that fail to meet their obligations.

The fines and consequences provided are as follows:

• $250 for intoxicated people: for deliberately entering or remaining in a licensed establishment, according to Section 04.16.040 and the Alaska judicial system fine schedule.
• $500 for prohibited conduct: for those who fail to comply with the restrictions of Section 04.16.030, such as selling alcohol to an intoxicated person or allowing them to remain in the establishment through criminal negligence.
• $250 administrative penalty: for the holder of a license when an employee or representative commits an offense covered by Section 04.16.030 inside the establishment.
• Class A misdemeanor: when the holder of a license deliberately allows an employee or representative to commit one of these offenses. It is the most serious misdemeanor and can be punished by up to one year in prison and/or a fine of up to $25.00.

The fee applies to passport books shipped to US addresses and is separate from the cost of applying for a passport. Applicants should distinguish faster delivery from expedited processing, which speeds up the handling of the application itself.

How much does faster passport delivery cost?

According to the State Department’s October 2026 fee schedule, applicants can pay $26.87 to have their passport book delivered within one to three days after mailing. The service is optional and does not apply to passport cards.

The fee covers shipping after the passport has been issued. It does not guarantee that the application will be processed faster.

How is faster delivery different from expedited processing?

Expedited processing is a separate service that costs an additional $60. It is intended for applicants who need their passport application processed more quickly.

Applicants who need both faster processing and faster delivery should account for the two separate charges. The State Department recommends reviewing its official passport fees and processing times before applying.

Its slightly tangy, nutty notes can complement the richness of melted cheese, creating a more balanced combination of flavors. Choosing the right type of rye bread and pairing it with suitable cheeses can also help improve the final result.

Why rye bread works well for grilled cheese

Rye bread has a more pronounced flavor than white bread, with earthy, nutty, and slightly malty notes. Its mild acidity can balance the fat and richness of melted cheese, adding complexity without requiring many additional ingredients.

Light rye bread is a particularly useful option. Dark rye varieties tend to retain more moisture, which can make it harder to achieve the crisp, golden exterior that gives a grilled cheese sandwich its characteristic texture.

Which cheeses and ingredients pair best with rye bread?

Choosing a cheese that complements the bread is key to building a flavorful sandwich. Gruyère works particularly well because its nutty notes match those of rye, while smoked Gouda and cheddar offer stronger flavors that can stand up to the bread’s distinctive taste.

Havarti is another option because it melts well, and varieties seasoned with black pepper or horseradish can add extra flavor.

Other ingredients can add contrast to the sandwich. Thin slices of apple introduce sweetness, tomatoes provide freshness, and pickles contribute acidity that can balance the richness of the cheese.

How to make a crisp, golden grilled cheese sandwich

• Butter the bread: Spread butter on the outside of each slice before cooking. Mayonnaise is an alternative that can help create a deeply browned crust.
• Cook over medium-low heat: This allows the cheese to melt gradually while the bread becomes golden and crisp.
• Avoid cooking it too quickly: High heat can burn the bread before the cheese has melted completely.
• Choose the right bread: Light rye is a good option for achieving a crisp exterior without the excess moisture that can come with darker varieties.

The process is relatively simple, but the solution’s concentration, soaking time and compatibility with the showerhead’s materials are important factors to consider before trying it.

Why soak a showerhead in citric acid?

Minerals in tap water can accumulate around the small openings of a showerhead, leaving a whitish residue known as limescale. This buildup is especially common in areas with hard water and can interfere with the way water comes out of the nozzles.

Citric acid can help loosen these deposits because it reacts with mineral buildup, which is largely made up of calcium carbonate. The reaction helps break down the residue so it can be rinsed away more easily.

Unlike products designed mainly to remove grease, acidic cleaners are suited to tackling mineral deposits. Citric acid is also available as a powder or crystals that can be dissolved in water, making it possible to prepare a solution for cleaning compatible showerheads.

Removing limescale may help restore a more even spray when the buildup is responsible for blocked openings.

How to clean a showerhead with citric acid

Before starting, it is important to check the manufacturer’s care instructions. Some showerheads have chrome-plated surfaces, special finishes, rubber seals or plastic components that may be sensitive to certain cleaning products. If the manufacturer allows the use of citric acid, follow the product’s instructions.

Step-by-step guide:

1. Prepare the solution. Dissolve the citric acid in cold or lukewarm water. Avoid hot water and do not use a higher concentration than recommended.
2. Remove the showerhead, if possible. Place it in a container filled with the solution. If it cannot be removed, use a method that prevents the liquid from coming into contact with surfaces that could be damaged.
3. Limit the soaking time. Start with a soaking period of 10 to 15 minutes, but always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, which may recommend a shorter period. Do not leave the showerhead soaking overnight.
4. Remove loosened deposits. Gently clean the openings with a soft brush or rub flexible silicone nozzles with your thumb, provided the product’s care instructions allow it.
5. Rinse and dry. Thoroughly rinse away the solution with clean water, run the shower for a few moments and dry the exterior with a soft cloth.

What precautions should you take?

Citric acid is not suitable for every surface. Avoid using it on natural stone such as marble or limestone, which acids can etch. Be especially careful with matte, colored or specialty finishes, and use only products approved for the specific showerhead.

Never mix citric acid with bleach or chlorine-based cleaners, as this can release toxic chlorine gas. Keep the solution away from children and pets, and follow the product label for handling and storage.

Experts at AAA Club Alliance notes that cleaning automotive glass can be more challenging than it seems, especially when swirl marks or a hazy film remain after the windshield has been cleaned. The inside of the glass can be particularly difficult because materials inside the vehicle may release gases that eventually leave a coating on the surface.

How to make a windshield cleaning solution

One recommended option is to make a homemade solution using one part white vinegar and three parts water, along with just a few drops of dishwashing liquid.

Start by soaking a microfiber towel in the solution and wringing it out before cleaning the glass. Then scrub the windshield to remove dirt and residue from the surface.

AAA also notes that some people have had good results with a mixture of water and rubbing alcohol combined with a few drops of dishwashing liquid.

The trick to avoiding streaks

Once the windshield has been cleaned, use a second microfiber towel that is clean and free of lint, grease and oil to dry the glass.

Instead of wiping in circles, experts at AAA recommends using straight motions while drying. This can help minimize marks that become particularly noticeable when sunlight hits the windshield.

The condition of the towels also matters. Avoid reusing towels that have been used for other cleaning jobs, and do not use fabric softener when washing microfiber towels intended for glass cleaning.

Which products should you avoid?

Ammonia-based cleaners may not be suitable for automotive glass, particularly in vehicles with tinted windows. AAA warns that these products can damage window tint films and affect other materials inside the vehicle.

It is also better to clean the windshield when the glass is cool and away from direct sunlight. High temperatures can cause cleaning products to evaporate too quickly, leaving streaks behind.

Once the process is complete, the windshield should be clear and free of visible residue. If an oily film quickly returns to the inside of the glass even after cleaning, AAA notes that it could point to a mechanical issue, such as a small coolant leak in the vehicle’s heating system.

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.

Used properly, it works as a natural fabric softener and helps remove odors. However, if used incorrectly, it can damage certain garments or combine dangerously with other products.

Adding white vinegar to the washing machine: what it’s for

Distilled white vinegar has a mild acidity that, in the washing machine, provides several benefits:

• Softens fabrics: it acts as a natural softener and helps leave clothes less rough, in addition to reducing static electricity.
• Removes odors: it is effective at neutralizing persistent odors, such as that of towels with a musty smell or clothes stored for a long time.
• Helps with certain stains: thanks to its acidity, it helps loosen stains of a “low-acid” origin, such as coffee, tea, or wine.
• Keeps the appliance maintained: run through an empty cycle, it helps prevent limescale buildup, especially in hard-water areas.

Vinegar is not a disinfectant and does not replace sanitizing products. It is useful for softening, deodorizing, and cleaning residue, not for eliminating germs.

How much to use and where to put it

The most common and safe way to use it is:

• Amount: about half a cup of distilled white vinegar.
• Where: in the rinse cycle or in the fabric softener compartment (never together with the detergent at the same time).
• Frequency: every few washes is enough; it does not need to be used in every load.

Mistakes to avoid

Here is the part that matters most to avoid damaging clothes or creating a risk at home:

• Never mix vinegar with bleach (chlorine): the combination releases toxic chlorine gas. This is the most important precaution.
• Do not mix it with ammonia or, at the same time, with baking soda (they neutralize each other).
• Avoid it on garments with elastic, such as swimsuits, leggings, or sportswear, because over time vinegar can degrade elasticity.
• Be careful with delicate fabrics: for garments that require special care, it is advisable to check the label first.

Why baking soda is recommended for refrigerators

Food odors can build up inside a refrigerator as different ingredients and prepared dishes share the same enclosed space. One simple way to address the problem is to place an open container of baking soda inside the appliance.

The University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) recommends leaving an open box of baking soda in the refrigerator to absorb food odors. The advice appears in its publication on household substances and alternatives with relatively low toxic effects.

The method does not require mixing ingredients or applying the powder to refrigerator surfaces. The idea is simply to leave the box open so the baking soda is exposed to the air inside the appliance.

How to use baking soda to reduce refrigerator odors

To try this household tip, place an open box of baking soda in a stable spot inside the refrigerator. Keep the container uncovered so the product can remain exposed to the surrounding air.

This approach can complement other kitchen hygiene practices recommended by UF/IFAS, including wiping up spills promptly and storing food in sealed containers. These habits help keep the kitchen clean and reduce problems associated with improperly stored food.

If an unpleasant smell persists, check the contents of the refrigerator and clean any areas where food residue may have accumulated. Baking soda can help with odor control, but it does not replace regular cleaning or proper food storage.

How does baking soda neutralize refrigerator odors?

Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a mildly alkaline compound that can help neutralize certain odor-causing substances. Some unpleasant refrigerator smells come from volatile fatty acids, which can be released as food spoils. When these acidic compounds react with baking soda, they can form less volatile substances that no longer produce the same noticeable odor.

This chemical reaction helps explain why baking soda can reduce some refrigerator odors. However, it does not work equally well on every type of smell, and its effectiveness depends on contact between the baking soda and the odor-causing compounds.

To combat this type of dirt, there is a widely used trick to complement the regular cleaning of this room and it consists of using hydrogen peroxide and salt on the floors.

What is spraying hydrogen peroxide and salt on the bathroom floor for?

Spraying hydrogen peroxide and sprinkling salt on the bathroom floor serves to loosen adhered residue, such as soap scum, built-up dirt, and surface stains.

On one hand, hydrogen peroxide acts as an oxidizing agent and, when it comes into contact with the dirt on the bathroom floor, releases oxygen and breaks down into water. On the other hand, salt acts as a mild abrasive thanks to its granular texture.

How do you use the trick of spraying hydrogen peroxide and salt on the bathroom floor?

To use this trick correctly, you need:

• 3% hydrogen peroxide.
• Table salt or sea salt.
• Soft-bristle brush or old toothbrush.
• Clean water.
• Towel or dry cloth.

The first step is to remove loose dirt such as hair, dust, or residue that could make cleaning difficult. Then, the hydrogen peroxide should be placed in a spray bottle and sprayed over the tile grout and the dirtiest areas.

Next, a small amount of salt should be sprinkled and left to act for 10 to 15 minutes so that stains and residue loosen. Then use a brush to scrub the stained areas and remove the remains with clean water. Finally, wipe with a towel or dry cloth to avoid water marks and reduce the risk of slippery surfaces.

What surfaces can hydrogen peroxide and salt clean?

Hydrogen peroxide may help lift certain organic stains from bathroom tile and grout, while salt provides mild abrasive action that can help loosen surface residue.

The results depend on the type of stain, the material being cleaned, and how long the product remains on the surface.

The announcement marks a shift in Starlink’s strategy. The company has largely relied on its satellite network and partnerships with traditional wireless carriers to extend mobile connectivity. With this transaction, SpaceX aims to develop a service that combines satellite connections with terrestrial infrastructure.

What Starlink’s spectrum deal includes

SpaceX has agreed to buy a portfolio of low-band spectrum licenses in the 800 MHz band from investment firm Grain Management. The agreement covers up to 14 MHz of paired spectrum and is valued at approximately $8 billion.

Radio spectrum carries wireless signals between devices and communications networks. Lower-frequency bands offer an important advantage for mobile services: they can cover broad areas and penetrate walls and other obstacles more effectively than higher-frequency bands.

For Starlink Mobile, that capability could help improve connectivity indoors, where satellite signals may weaken as they encounter roofs, walls and other structures.

However, the agreement still requires final approval from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The transaction does not mean Starlink Mobile is already available nationwide or that SpaceX can immediately provide comprehensive mobile coverage across the country.

How Starlink Mobile’s network could work

SpaceX plans to combine its satellite constellation with a terrestrial communications network. The goal is to use both technologies to expand connectivity and reduce the limitations of relying on either system alone.

The newly acquired low-band spectrum would complement the frequencies Starlink plans to use for satellite data transmission. SpaceX also envisions deploying radio equipment and antennas on towers, rooftops and other structures to strengthen its ground-based coverage.

The company has also announced that the FCC authorized an application related to the deployment of 15,000 satellites for Starlink Mobile. That decision marks another milestone for the project, although it does not eliminate the need to build terrestrial infrastructure or complete the regulatory process for the spectrum transaction.

SpaceX says this hybrid architecture will allow it to deliver broader mobile connectivity. The challenge will be turning that technical capability into a reliable service for everyday smartphone users.

Why AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile still have an advantage

The spectrum acquisition strengthens Starlink’s prospects of entering the mobile market, but it does not automatically put the company on equal footing with established carriers.

AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile already operate terrestrial networks and have extensive antenna infrastructure, commercial partnerships, customer service systems and large subscriber bases. Building a comparable operation would require substantial investment and years of development.

Network performance also depends on more than coverage. Handling heavy traffic, maintaining stable connections in crowded urban areas and delivering consistent service inside buildings will be crucial to competing with established providers.

SpaceX still faces technical and commercial challenges before it can become a direct rival to the major wireless carriers. Acquiring spectrum is a significant step, but it does not guarantee a competitive nationwide network.

The extension follows a federal disaster declaration issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The IRS will automatically apply the relief to eligible taxpayers located in the covered areas.

Which Florida taxpayers qualify for the extended deadline?

The relief covers individuals who live and businesses whose principal place of business is located in 28 Florida counties, including Bay, Citrus, Escambia, Leon, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, and Walton. The full list also includes Baker, Calhoun, Columbia, Dixie, Franklin, Gadsden, Gilchrist, Gulf, Hamilton, Holmes, Jackson, Jefferson, Lafayette, Levy, Liberty, Madison, Suwannee, Taylor, Wakulla, and Washington.

Taxpayers whose records need to meet a filing or payment deadline are located in the disaster area may also qualify, even if they live or operate a business elsewhere.

The relief also covers certain relief workers affiliated with recognized government or philanthropic organizations and individuals who were visiting the disaster area and were injured or killed as a result of the disaster.

Taxpayers outside the covered area can call the IRS at 866-562-5227 to determine whether they qualify.

Which tax returns and payments can be postponed?

The February 8, 2027, deadline also applies to eligible taxpayers who had a valid extension to file their 2025 federal income tax return. However, the relief does not extend the deadline to pay taxes owed for that year, which was April 15, 2026. Those payments are not covered by the postponement.

Eligible taxpayers can also postpone estimated income tax payments originally due on or after October 9, 2026, without incurring penalties for late estimated payments, provided they pay by the new deadline. Certain quarterly payroll and excise tax returns originally due November 2, 2026, and February 1, 2027, are also covered.

What taxpayers need to know about the 2025 tax return

The extension also covers individuals who had a valid extension to file their 2025 federal income tax return. However, it does not extend the deadline to pay taxes owed for that year: those payments were due April 15, 2026, and are not eligible for this relief.

The IRS will also waive certain penalties on payroll and excise tax deposits due from October 9 through October 25, 2026, if the deposits are made by October 26. Taxpayers who receive a penalty notice for a deadline covered by the relief should call the number listed on the notice to request an adjustment.

Experts agree that it is not safe to leave a child alone in the car, even for a short period of time, since factors such as temperature or a failure in the locking of doors and windows could put the child’s physical safety at risk.

In which situations is it punishable under Washington law?

According to section 9.91.060 of chapter 9.91, within title 9 of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW), leaving children unsupervised in a parked car constitutes a serious misdemeanor when certain circumstances are met.

“Any person who has in their care, whether temporarily or permanently, children under twelve years of age, and who leaves those children in a parked car without adult supervision while entering a tavern or other establishment where wines, spirits, or alcoholic beverages are served for consumption on the premises, shall be guilty of a gross misdemeanor.”

On the other hand, section 46.61.685 of chapter 46.61, within title 46, states that leaving children unsupervised in a vehicle with the engine running is illegal and constitutes a misdemeanor.

“It is illegal for any person, while operating or in charge of a vehicle, to park or intentionally allow that vehicle to remain on a public road or in a public place with its engine running, leaving a minor child or children under sixteen years of age unsupervised in the vehicle”.

What is the penalty?

According to section 9A.20.021 of chapter 9A.20, within title 9A of the RCW, titled “Maximum penalties for offenses committed from July 1, 1984,” the following sanctions are established:

• Misdemeanor: any person convicted of a misdemeanor may receive a prison sentence in county jail for a period of up to 90 days, a fine of up to US$1,000, or both penalties, as determined by the court.
• Gross misdemeanor: any person convicted of a gross misdemeanor may receive a prison sentence in county jail for a period of up to 364 days, a fine of up to US$5,000, or both penalties, as determined by the court.

What are the dangers of leaving children alone in the car?

According to the National Safety Council (NSC) in the United States, more than 1,000 children have died from heatstroke in vehicles since 1998. It is estimated that approximately 37 deaths occur each year due to the high temperatures that can be recorded inside cars.

The Safe Kids Inland Empire coordinator at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital, Michelle Parker, says that the temperature inside a car can increase by up to 20 degrees Fahrenheit in ten minutes. Even when the vehicle is parked in the shade, outside temperatures can cause heatstroke.

Safe Kids Worldwide explains that young children are at greater risk of heat-related illnesses because their bodies are smaller and they heat up three to five times faster than those of the average adult.

For her part, Dr. Alexandra Clark, chief of the General Pediatrics Division at the Children’s Hospital, explains that heat-related illnesses develop in three stages:

• Heat cramps.
• Heat exhaustion.
• Heatstroke.

It is important to note that children who remain in cars exposed to high temperatures are also at risk of severe dehydration and other heat-related illnesses, which may require urgent medical attention.

To use this type of service, it is necessary to have an ID.me account, which will allow the person to log in and access their tax information as many times as they wish.

What is needed to create an IRS account and who can do it

According to the official information, it will be necessary to have an ID.me account in order to access IRS online services.

It is important to note that only those who are 18 years old or older may create an account.

ID.me is the partner used by government agencies and companies to verify digital identity and confirm that the person logging in is really the account holder.

To use it, it will be necessary to have:

• An email address
• A unique 8-character password
• A multifactor authenticator

If you have everything specified above, the steps to create the account are:

• Select the service or account needed
• Click on “create a wallet”
• Enter the personal email address
• Confirm the email address in the inbox
• Set up multifactor authentication
• Verify identity (a Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) and a valid government-issued photo ID will be needed.

For which procedures is it necessary to create this account

The IRS online service, which requires ID.me, is used so that taxpayers can:

• Access their tax records.
• Make and schedule payments, as well as view payment history and pending payments.
• Check the balance due by tax year.
• Submit IRS forms.
• Manage profile options.
• View different authorizations.

In addition, IRS has its own application that recently changed its name and features. It stopped being IRS2Go and is now called IRS, available for Apple and Android. Those who want to use it will also need an ID.me account.

A year later, the Taylor Swift Education Center opened its doors, a space with classrooms and interactive areas intended to develop activities educationally linked to music and art. Since then, the place has been part of the museum’s offerings for students, teachers, and families.

Fourteen years after that donation, the center houses Connection, an exhibition with works created by students from public schools and adult artists with developmental disabilities. The initiative brings together education, creativity, and community participation, and allows visitors to learn about one of the activities currently taking place in the space that the singer helped launch.

Taylor Swift donated $4 million to create an educational center in Nashville

In 2012, Taylor Swift donated $4 million to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, located in Nashville, Tennessee, as part of an expansion campaign for the institution. This contribution helped create the Taylor Swift Education Center, a space intended to bring music, culture, and art closer to students, teachers, and families.

The center opened in 2013 and occupies two floors, with an area of approximately 7,500 square feet that houses classrooms, a gallery, a studio, a videoconferencing lab, and interactive spaces designed to develop educational experiences. According to the museum itself reported, the singer’s donation was part of a capital campaign that made it possible to double the size of the nonprofit cultural organization.

Since then, the center has served as one of the main spaces for its educational offerings.

What activities does the Taylor Swift Education Center offer?

The Taylor Swift Education Center offers programs that combine content related to country music with hands-on activities, school groups, songwriting workshops and artistic workshops, activities for young children adapted to different educational levels, and resources intended for families visiting the museum.

The reach of these initiatives is reflected in the institution’s figures, since in 2025 more than 125,000 people participated in more than 2,000 in-person and virtual educational programs organized by the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.

Fourteen years later, the center exhibits works created by students and artists with disabilities

In April 2026, the Taylor Swift Education Center presented Connection, an exhibition of posters created by students from Nashville public schools and artists who participate in Friends Life Community, a nonprofit organization that supports adults with developmental disabilities.

The project was developed in collaboration with Hatch Show Print, a historic letterpress workshop linked to the museum. During the experience, the students learned the workshop’s history, explored design principles, learned about the printing process, and had the opportunity to create their own posters based on what they learned.

KFC and Coca-Cola announced the deal Thursday but didn’t disclose financial terms. PepsiCo bought KFC in 1986 as part of a push into the restaurant business that also included Pizza Hut and Taco Bell.

In 1997, PepsiCo spun off the three chains into the company now called Yum Brands, KFC’s parent. PepsiCo stayed on as KFC’s drink supplier in the U.S.

For KFC, the move is a return of sorts. Before 1986, most of its restaurants poured Coke, and the chain was Coca-Cola’s second-biggest fountain drink customer, behind only McDonald’s.

Why is KFC switching from Pepsi to Coca-Cola now?

KFC is framing the switch as part of a broader overhaul of the brand. KFC U.S. President Catherine Tan-Gillespie said the partnership “is about more than what’s in the cup.” She called it another step toward modernizing the chain and its restaurants for today’s customers.

In a memo to franchisees and employees reported by CNBC, Tan-Gillespie called the change a key part of the “Kentucky Fried Comeback.” That’s KFC’s effort to win back U.S. diners who have moved to rivals such as Chick-fil-A and Popeyes.

Drinks have also become a bigger draw across fast food. McDonald’s and Taco Bell have added options like refreshers and “dirty soda,” which is soda customized with flavored syrups and creamer.

KFC has started testing its own lineup. The chain recently added iced coffees and shakes at Open House, its test restaurant in McKinney, Texas.

When will Coca-Cola replace Pepsi at every KFC in the US?

The rollout will take a few months. Coca-Cola and KFC expect every U.S. location to be serving Coke products by spring 2027.

Neither company has said which Coca-Cola drinks will be on KFC menus. Dagmar Boggs leads Coca-Cola’s business with restaurants and venues in North America. She pointed to the company’s range of brands and its ability to develop new beverages as part of what it brings to the deal.

Coca-Cola has said it helps many of its restaurant clients create new drinks. That kind of support fits KFC’s push to expand what it pours.

Is Taco Bell dropping Pepsi too, like KFC?

No. A PepsiCo spokesperson told Reuters that Yum Brands and PepsiCo recently renewed their agreements for Taco Bell and for KFC restaurants outside the U.S. The Taco Bell deal runs for 10 years.

That means Mountain Dew Baja Blast, the PepsiCo drink that has become Taco Bell’s signature soda, isn’t going anywhere.

In her memo, Tan-Gillespie said PepsiCo remains an important partner for Yum Brands and for KFC’s international business. Some KFC markets abroad already serve Coca-Cola drinks.

The scheduled payment does not represent a general change to the calendar or an increase in benefit amounts. For most Social Security recipients, the payment date depends on their date of birth, although certain beneficiaries follow a different schedule.

Who will receive Social Security payments on October 21?

The next deposit is scheduled for retirement, survivor and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) beneficiaries whose birthdays fall between the 11th and the 20th of any month, provided they are covered by the agency’s standard Wednesday payment schedule.

The SSA spreads payments across several dates throughout the month, which means beneficiaries do not all receive their money on the same day.

The October 21 payment applies to the following groups:

• Retirement beneficiaries: People receiving retirement benefits who are assigned to the third-Wednesday payment group.
• Survivor beneficiaries: Eligible people receiving survivor benefits under the same birthday-based schedule.
• SSDI recipients: People receiving Social Security Disability Insurance who qualify for the third-Wednesday payment date.

This schedule generally applies to beneficiaries who began receiving Social Security benefits in May 1997 or later. Certain recipients are covered by separate payment rules.

How does the SSA payment schedule work?

For most retirement, survivor and disability beneficiaries, the monthly payment date is determined by their birthday. The agency generally distributes these benefits on three Wednesdays:

• Second Wednesday of the month: People born between the 1st and the 10th.
• Third Wednesday of the month: People born between the 11th and the 20th.
• Fourth Wednesday of the month: People born between the 21st and the 31st.

In October 2026, those payment dates fall on October 14, 21 and 28, respectively.

However, people who began receiving benefits before May 1997 generally receive their payments on the third day of the month. Separate rules also apply to certain beneficiaries who receive both Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

Who needs to wait for a different payment date?

The October 21 deposit will not reach every SSA beneficiary. People born between the 21st and the 31st who follow the standard Wednesday schedule are due to receive their benefits on October 28.

Meanwhile, the next SSI payment is scheduled for Friday, October 30. That deposit covers November’s benefit and is issued early because November 1 falls on a Sunday. It is not an extra payment or an increase in benefits.

Beneficiaries can check the SSA’s official payment calendar or sign in to their my Social Security account to confirm their individual payment dates and review information about their benefits.

To extend the useful life of this appliance, it is necessary to carry out maintenance tasks periodically that help prevent breakdowns and avoid expenses on repairs that are often costly.

Periodically cleaning the air conditioner’s drain pipe is one of these essential tasks, since it allows the appliance to continue operating efficiently.

Why should the air conditioner drain pipe be cleaned?

The air conditioner drain pipe is responsible for removing the water generated by the condensation of moisture from the air during the cooling process.

With regular use of the appliance, this component can accumulate dust, dirt, mold, and algae that make water circulation difficult and cause blockages.

The TCL experts recommend keeping this duct clean to avoid leaks, moisture damage, and problems in the air conditioner’s operation.

What are the signs that it is time to clean the air conditioner drain pipe?

According to the manufacturer’s advice blog, TCL, there are five signs that may indicate the drain pipe is clogged and needs cleaning:

• There are water leaks around the indoor unit of the air conditioner, such as drips coming from the equipment.
• Bad odors are noticed due to the moisture and mold generated by stagnant water.
• Water begins to accumulate because it cannot circulate properly through the pipe.
• Visible mold is present near the pipe or its outlet.
• The air conditioner shuts off unexpectedly.

How can vinegar and water be used to clean the air conditioner?

White vinegar can be used to clean the drain duct and reduce the buildup of organic residue, such as algae and mold. At TCL, they recommend using a mixture of water and vinegar to flush the pipe.

First, the air conditioner must be turned off and the equipment disconnected from the power supply to work safely. Then, it is necessary to identify the pipe and locate the access point. Some systems have an opening with a cover, usually T-shaped, that allows access to the drain.

Then, you should pour in a mixture of water and vinegar using a funnel. Finally, it is important to verify that the water flows correctly and that there are no obstructions in the pipe.

Preventive maintenance: what should be done

To avoid blockages and extend the useful life of the air conditioner, TCL recommends establishing a preventive maintenance routine that makes it possible to detect this type of problem before it worsens and causes breakdowns.

The manufacturer suggests:

• Perform monthly inspections of the pipes.
• Clean the drain duct with vinegar twice a year.
• Check that the pipe has the necessary slope to allow water drainage.
• Clean the drain pan.
• Request an annual professional inspection to carry out more complex maintenance tasks.

The payment is scheduled for December because January 1 is a federal holiday and SSI benefits are generally paid on the first day of each month. The early deposit is not an extra benefit but the regular payment for January 2027.

When will SSI recipients receive the first increased payment?

The SSA confirmed that approximately 7.3 million SSI recipients will begin receiving the higher payments on December 31, 2026. The 3.6% COLA will also apply to Social Security retirement, survivors, and disability benefits, which will reflect the adjustment beginning in January 2027.

The annual adjustment is designed to help benefits keep pace with inflation and is calculated using changes in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W).

How much will SSI payments increase in 2027?

Under the new federal payment standards, the maximum monthly SSI amount will increase from $994 to $1,029 for an eligible individual. For an eligible couple, the maximum will rise from $1,491 to $1,544.

These are maximum federal amounts, not guaranteed payments. The actual benefit may be lower depending on a recipient’s countable income and circumstances. Some states also provide supplemental SSI payments.

How can beneficiaries check their new SSI amount?

Recipients can review their personalized COLA notice through their my Social Security account. The SSA said notices would become available online in late November, while those who receive paper notices can expect them by mail in December.

The notice provides the beneficiary’s new benefit amount and any applicable deductions. Recipients should check their individual notice to determine how much they will receive in 2027.

The agency announced the postponement Wednesday, after the Federal Emergency Management Agency issued a disaster declaration for the area.

The new date reaches back to any covered deadline that fell on or after July 27, 2026. Filings and payments that came due in the weeks since the storms count as on time as long as they’re handled by Feb. 1.

Which IRS tax deadlines move to Feb. 1 in the 4 Wisconsin counties hit by tornadoes?

The postponement covers most federal returns and payments with an original or extended due date inside that window. Among them:

• 2025 individual income tax returns filed on a valid extension.
• Quarterly payroll returns and certain excise tax returns normally due July 31 and Nov. 2, 2026.
• Estimated income tax payments that came due on or after July 27.
• Business returns, including those for corporations, partnerships and S corporations, plus estate, trust and gift tax returns.
• Annual information returns from tax-exempt organizations.

Some dates don’t move. Taxes owed on 2025 returns were due April 15, 2026, months before the storms. An extension to file those returns doesn’t buy extra time to pay that balance.

The relief also leaves out information returns, such as Forms W-2 and the 1099 series, along with payroll and excise tax deposits. However, the IRS waived penalties on deposits due from July 27 to Aug. 10 that were made by Aug. 11.

Taxpayers on an IRS payment plan won’t have the agreement default over payments missed during the postponement. Interest and late-payment penalties still build up, though. Automatic debits also keep running unless the taxpayer asks the IRS or their bank to pause them.

A recently enacted law, the Disaster Related Extension of Deadlines Act, treats the postponement as an extension when the IRS calculates the deadline for claiming a refund. In practice, affected taxpayers get more time to claim refunds or credits.

Who doesn’t need to apply for IRS tornado tax relief in Wisconsin?

Anyone who lives or runs a business in the four counties doesn’t have to request anything. The IRS identifies taxpayers in the disaster area on its own and applies the relief automatically. That includes tax-exempt organizations whose main place of business is there.

Some eligible taxpayers do need to call IRS Special Services at 866-562-5227. That includes people and businesses outside the four counties whose records needed to meet a deadline are in the disaster area.

Relief workers with a recognized government or charitable organization also qualify, as do visitors who were killed or injured in the storms. They can request the extra time through the same line.

Tax preparers based in the disaster area who keep records for clients elsewhere can also contact Special Services. Preparers handling 10 or more of those clients should use the IRS process for bulk disaster relief requests.

A taxpayer may get a late-filing or late-payment penalty notice for a due date inside the postponement window. In that case, they should call the number on the notice to have the penalty removed.

According to the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC), Trudy reached Category 3 on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale early Friday, October 16. The storm had maximum sustained winds of about 120 mph and was moving northwest.

What is Hurricane Trudy’s projected path?

In its latest advisory, the NHC placed Trudy’s center about 250 miles southwest of Acapulco, Guerrero, and approximately 355 miles south-southeast of Manzanillo, Colima.

Forecasters expect the hurricane to continue northwest, potentially turning north-northwest before resuming its northwesterly track. Its center is forecast to approach Mexico’s southwestern and west-central coast on Saturday, October 17, and pass near the shoreline Saturday night into Sunday.

Although the forecast track keeps the storm’s center offshore, that does not eliminate the threat to coastal communities. Changes in the hurricane’s path or intensity could affect the severity of local impacts, making updated official forecasts essential.

Which areas of Mexico face the greatest risk?

Rainfall is among the main concerns as Trudy approaches the coast. The NHC forecasts 4 to 8 inches of rain, with isolated totals reaching about 12 inches, across parts of Michoacán, Colima and Jalisco through the weekend.

Such rainfall could trigger life-threatening flooding and mudslides, particularly in mountainous areas and locations with steep terrain.

In Guerrero, the hurricane’s outer bands could bring 2 to 4 inches of rain, with isolated amounts of up to 6 inches. Localized flash flooding is also possible in these areas.

The storm’s effects may extend well beyond the area closest to its center. Coastal communities should therefore monitor rainfall forecasts as well as warnings related to wind and ocean conditions.

What hazards could Trudy bring this weekend?

Heavy rain is not the only threat. The NHC warns that Trudy could produce storm surge, large waves and dangerous rip currents that pose a serious risk to people in or near the water.

The storm’s winds could also affect areas well beyond its center. Tropical-storm conditions are expected in areas under a tropical storm warning by late Friday or early Saturday, while hurricane conditions are possible in areas under a hurricane watch later Saturday.

Residents and visitors should follow updates from local weather services and civil protection authorities, avoid entering the ocean when dangerous surf conditions are present, and comply with evacuation instructions if issued.

Trudy’s evolution remains under close observation. Its projected path and intensity may change, making the latest official advisories critical to understanding the potential threat to Mexico’s Pacific coast.

When using it daily, it is common for certain food odors to become trapped inside, causing a nuisance in homes. To address this problem, there is a homemade trick that authorities recommend putting into practice.

Mixing lemon juice and water inside the microwave: why it is recommended and what problem it solves

One of the official tips for removing bad food odors is to mix half a cup of lemon juice with one cup of water inside a bowl suitable for the microwave.

The mixture must remain inside the microwave so that the vapors are released and trapped in the appliance. According to the instructions, the steam will help loosen stuck-on food residue and eliminate any bad odor that has persisted after heating or cooking.

Once the trick is finished, the recommendation is to clean the surfaces with a soft cloth or use paper towels.

Other recommendations to keep the microwave always clean

In addition, the authorities advise:

• Remove splashes and spills as soon as they occur so that food residue does not dry.
• Clean with a soft cloth or paper towel with warm water.
• You can also use a homemade baking soda-based cleaner, mild soap, or detergent.
• Do not use steel wool, scouring pads, or abrasive cleaners.

It is important to note that users should always consult the manufacturer’s use and care manual to adapt the advice to each model.

Also, a good idea is to unplug the microwave before cleaning it to minimize any risk.

According to the official proposal, the agency is studying the purchase of land of up to 12 acres, equivalent to almost 5 hectares for each silo site. The facilities will be distributed among Wyoming, Montana, and North Dakota, although the final location and acquisition of properties still depend on the corresponding assessments.

The initiative is part of a review of the Sentinel program, which suffered cost increases and delays due, among other factors, to the complexity of building the necessary infrastructure. The Air Force launched a new environmental impact study to analyze the modifications and plans to publish its final version in the spring of 2028.

Where do they plan to install the 120 Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missiles?

The United States Air Force plans to deploy the new Sentinel missiles, designed to carry nuclear warheads, at three military bases: F. E. Warren in Wyoming; Malmstrom in Montana; and Minot in North Dakota. The program seeks to gradually replace the old Minuteman III missiles with a more modern system, which will include new silos, launch centers and communication systems, according to the U.S. Air Force Global Strike Command.

The supplemental environmental study considers acquiring land to build up to 30 new silos at F. E. Warren and up to 60 at Minot. At Malmstrom, they are evaluating building up to 30 new silos on other land and reusing old military sites for another 60.

Why is the United States Air Force evaluating buying land of up to nearly 5 hectares per silo?

The possible acquisition of land responds to changes in the design and infrastructure of the Sentinel program, where, according to the official notice published in the Federal Register, the Air Force determined that adapting the existing Minuteman III system facilities involved risks related to costs and implementation deadlines.

For this reason, it reformulated the plan to build new silos instead of relying mainly on the reuse of old structures.

When will construction of the new nuclear missile silos begin?

Construction of the new silos still depends on the environmental assessment process and on subsequent Air Force decisions. The agency has launched a new public consultation phase to analyze the possible impacts of the changes introduced in the Sentinel program.

According to the official notice from the Department of the Air Force, the expected schedule is as follows:

• October 2026: start of the 30-day public consultation period on the scope of the study.
• Fall 2027: expected publication of the draft supplemental environmental impact study, which will be open for public comment.
• Spring 2028: expected publication of the final version of the environmental study.

After completing that assessment, the Air Force will be able to move forward with a formal decision on the project and the steps needed to carry out the work. For now, the official schedule does not set a definite date for the start of construction of the new silos.

A Hawaii parent filed Jane Doe v. OpenAI Foundation on Tuesday Oct. 13 in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. She sued on behalf of her 12-year-old daughter and 16-year-old son, who both began using ChatGPT early this year.

OpenAI’s terms of use say anyone under 18 needs a parent’s or guardian’s permission to use ChatGPT. According to the complaint, children can open accounts anyway, and the company never checks for consent. OpenAI has not commented publicly on the lawsuit.

The suit joins dozens of legal challenges filed against OpenAI in recent years. They range from copyright claims to allegations that ChatGPT contributed to mental health crises among users.

Who could get a share of OpenAI under the ChatGPT lawsuit?

The plaintiffs want the case certified as a class action. The class would cover anyone in the U.S. who accepted ChatGPT’s terms while under 18 and used the chatbot at any point since November 2022. That includes people who are adults now.

Each member would receive OpenAI equity, or its cash value, based on how many tokens they contributed through ChatGPT. Tokens are the units AI companies use to measure the text a chatbot processes. According to OpenAI, one token equals about four characters.

California law bars minors from entering certain contracts on their own. On that basis, the plaintiffs argue OpenAI’s terms are void for anyone who accepted them under 18. They also point to OpenAI’s April proposal for a public fund that would share AI returns with citizens.

The lawsuit doesn’t set a dollar amount, and a judge still has to decide whether it can proceed as a class action. Until then, there is no claim form or sign-up process.

What does the lawsuit say ChatGPT did with children’s data?

The complaint alleges that ChatGPT steers children into sharing details about their health, relationships, emotions and fears, along with voice recordings and photos. It says flattery and constant validation build that trust, and that OpenAI uses the material to train its models and build profiles of young users.

The 12-year-old started out asking about dinner ideas and homework, the filing says. When ChatGPT asked her age, she said she was 12, and the chatbot kept responding, although OpenAI’s terms require users to be at least 13.

Over the following months, she sent selfies and asked about features she disliked, according to the suit. When she asked ChatGPT to rate her looks, it agreed and encouraged her to send a photo.

The complaint alleges OpenAI will keep that data indefinitely. OpenAI launched an advertising program in January and says it doesn’t show ads to children. The plaintiffs argue the data could be used to target them once they turn 18.

How to make a homemade cleaner with vinegar and orange peels

The recipe asks for very little. You need the peels of four oranges, a quart-size glass jar and enough white vinegar to cover them. Once the jar is filled, it rests for about a week. After that, the liquid goes into a spray bottle and it is ready for everyday surfaces.

There is no cooking, measuring or special equipment. The authors, Amanda Griffin and Randall A. Cantrell, present it as an example of the cleaners you can make with a few inexpensive ingredients instead of buying commercial products.

What surfaces can you clean with vinegar and orange peels?

A mixture of white vinegar and orange peels can be useful for cleaning certain hard surfaces around the home, particularly those that tolerate acidic products. Once the mixture is ready, it can help remove light grease, everyday dirt and some unpleasant odors, while leaving a fresh citrus scent.

It may be suitable for ceramic tiles, certain kitchen countertops and other washable, acid-resistant surfaces. However, it is important to test the mixture on a small, inconspicuous area before using it more broadly.

Avoid using it on marble, granite, natural stone, terrazzo and other acid-sensitive materials, as vinegar can damage their finish. It is also best to avoid unsealed wood, waxed surfaces and delicate finishes.

Why people reach for it

The first reason is the budget. The fact sheet opens by asking whether you are running low on cleaners and suggests making your own rather than heading to the store.

The second is reuse: the peels would otherwise be thrown away, and the jar can be a recycled one.

What it does not promise

The University of Florida calls this mix an all-purpose cleaner. It does not describe it as a disinfectant. For sanitizing hard surfaces such as cutting boards or doorknobs, the same university gives separate diluted bleach solutions, with their own instructions.

Safety rules that matter more than the recipe

The most important warning has nothing to do with oranges. Never mix bleach with vinegar, ammonia or rubbing alcohol, because the reaction can release toxic fumes that harm the lungs. Since this cleaner is vinegar-based, keep it away from any bleach product.

The fact sheet adds a few habits worth adopting:

• Label the jar or bottle clearly.
• Never use food containers, especially ones children associate with food.
• Store the cleaner out of children’s reach.
• Mix only what you need and use it up.

According to the new eligibility terms, individual taxpayers could receive up to $1,700. Meanwhile, married couples could receive up to $3,400.

This credit would be ready to be launched by January 1, 2027. This anticipated announcement is for Scholarship Granting Organizations to be prepared for key procedures in all states.

What is the new federal scholarship tax about?

This new scholar will try to increase the amount of private contributions to participating Scholarship Granting Organizations (SGOs). This means that any individual or corporation that donates money to an approved SGO receives a nonrefundable dollar-for-dollar tax credit.

These funds will help students from kindergarten to 12th grade whose families have low incomes to access educational scholarships. It is a tax credit for donors rather than a direct cash payment or voucher from the government.

Credit Limits:

• Up to $1,700 per individual taxpayer.

• Up to $3,400 for married couples filing jointly.

How can families use these scholarships?

Families who receive scholarships funded through the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit can cover educational expenses and choose the options that meet their children’s needs.

The financial aid can be used for the following options:

• Private-school tuition.
• Academic tutoring.
• Special-needs services.
• Books, supplies, computers, and other equipment.

“By 2030, Treasury and the IRS estimate that the program could support 600 to 700 SGOs, with more than 11 million taxpayers making nearly $26 billion in qualified contributions annually and funding as many as 2.2 million scholarships each year,” the IRS website says.

What do the new regulations propose?

The proposed regulations address five key areas:

• Increasing access for students: The rules clarify income limits and simplify eligibility verification for certain families and students. Treasury and the IRS estimate that about 96% of children in participating states would qualify for Section 25F scholarship funds.
• Expanding educational choice: States could not impose stricter operating requirements on scholarship-granting organizations (SGOs) or exclude otherwise eligible organizations through discretionary standards.
• Expanding opportunities for scholarship organizations and families: The rules establish a framework for multistate SGOs. Treasury and the IRS estimate this could enable about 450 additional organizations to participate and increase qualified contributions by up to $3 billion annually.
• Ensuring taxpayers can access the maximum credit allowed by law: The rules clarify how federal and state tax credits interact, allow unused credits to be carried forward for up to five years, and generally let taxpayers rely on the IRS list of eligible SGOs.
• Protecting taxpayers and scholarship funds: The regulations introduce reporting, verification, and audit requirements to prevent fraud and improper payments, along with procedures for removing organizations that fail to meet the requirements.

The retailer announced the changes Tuesday in a letter to employees from Chief People Officer Donna Morris. The announcement landed in the middle of Walmart’s annual benefits enrollment period, which closes Nov. 6.

Walmart is the largest private employer in the U.S., with about 1.6 million workers in the country and roughly 2.1 million worldwide as of the end of its 2026 fiscal year.

GLP-1 is short for glucagon-like peptide-1, a class of injectable medications that help control blood sugar. Ozempic is made by Novo Nordisk, and Mounjaro is made by Eli Lilly.

Which GLP-1 drugs will Walmart cover for free in 2027?

Walmart’s free GLP-1 coverage includes Ozempic and Mounjaro, two injectable drugs prescribed to manage Type 2 diabetes.

Certain insulin products and inhalers are also on the broader list of medications that will cost employees nothing next year.

Walmart also highlighted drugs for conditions that are costly to treat, such as hemophilia and multiple sclerosis.

How do Walmart employees with Type 2 diabetes qualify for free GLP-1 drugs?

To get GLP-1 drugs free in 2027, Walmart employees have to have Type 2 diabetes. They also need to meet two other conditions:

• Enroll in an eligible plan. The benefit applies under most Walmart medical plans, not all of them, so the plan an employee picks for 2027 matters. Enrollment closes Nov. 6.
• Get a new prior authorization. Walmart said employees will need a new approval before the drugs are free. A prior authorization is a review in which the health plan confirms a prescription meets its rules before it pays.

Coverage also comes with a premium. Walmart’s starting medical plan will cost $39.80 per biweekly pay period in 2027, $1.50 more than the $38.30 employees pay this year.

Walmart said that increase is smaller than the one it made last year. The company also said premiums for its starting plan have run about 30% below the national average in recent years.

Does Walmart cover GLP-1 drugs for weight loss in 2027?

No. Walmart’s plans will still not cover GLP-1 drugs from Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly when they are prescribed for weight loss.

The retail company isn’t alone in that limit. Many large employers don’t pay for GLP-1s used to treat obesity, and some have recently dropped that coverage to keep health care spending in check.

Walmart is moving the other way on most of its benefits. Many employers are passing rising health care costs on to workers through higher prices or thinner plans. Walmart said its changes reflect years of planning that let it improve benefits without cutting coverage or significantly raising premiums.

This cleaning takes on special importance before stormy days, when heavy rainfall can test the water drainage capacity.

The preparation is part of a Metro cleaning guide, the regional agency for the Portland, Oregon, United States area.

How to prepare the baking soda, white vinegar and boiling water mixture

The Metro healthy cleaning guide recommends using three ingredients to carry out regular drain cleaning. The recipe includes:

• 1/4 cup baking soda.
• 1 cup distilled white vinegar.
• 6 cups boiling water.

How to use the mixture to unclog drains

The procedure consists of first pouring the baking soda directly down the drain and then adding the white vinegar. If possible, cover the opening and let the mixture sit for 10 minutes.

Next, boil the six cups of water and pour them down the drain to help flush away the residue. If the drain continues to run slowly, the procedure can be repeated, although major blockages may require a manual drain snake or professional intervention.

It is important to check that the pipes can withstand high-temperature water, since boiling water can damage some plastic installations.

Why it works chemically and how it helps prevent flooding on stormy days

When they come into contact, baking soda and white vinegar produce an acid-base reaction that releases carbon dioxide and creates bubbles. This effervescence can help move some residue, while the hot water helps wash away soap and dirt.

However, the reaction also neutralizes some of the vinegar’s acidity, so the mixture is not a universal drain cleaner and does not guarantee removal of severe blockages.

The Metro healthy cleaning guide recommends carrying out this maintenance once a month to help prevent clogs and bad odors.

Periodic cleaning of drains is also essential before heavy rain events, since the accumulation of residue, soap scum, sediment and other materials can hinder the flow of water through the pipes and reduce drainage capacity.

To reduce that risk, it is also necessary to remove leaves, dirt and trash from grates, clean the gutters and check that storm drains are clear.

The homemade mixture is intended for maintaining household drains and does not replace those tasks: flooding can also occur when the amount of rain exceeds the storm drainage system’s capacity.

The increase will change the monthly amounts starting in January, and not all beneficiaries will receive the money on the same day, since the date will depend on factors such as the date of birth and the type of benefit, so some will be paid before others, while certain payments will be moved up to December 2026.

The official schedule makes it possible to identify who will receive the increase first, what the deposit dates in January will be, and when the following payments will arrive.

Which retirees will receive the COLA 2027 increase first?

The first payments with the COLA increase will arrive on December 31, 2026, for those who receive SSI. By contrast, retirees who receive Social Security according to the SSA’s regular schedule will begin receiving their January deposits according to their date of birth.

However, there are exceptions, such as people who began receiving benefits before May 1997 and who receive both Social Security and SSI.

What are the Social Security payment dates in January 2027?

The SSA will distribute the regular January payments according to each beneficiary’s date of birth. The official dates are as follows:

• Wednesday, January 13: born from 1 to 10.
• Wednesday, January 20: born from 11 to 20.
• Wednesday, January 27: born from 21 to 31.

The 3.6% increase will be applied automatically to eligible beneficiaries in January. The final amount will depend on how much each person receives and on any possible deductions that are applied to their payment. In this regard, the SSA reported that retirement benefits will increase, on average, by about $75 per month.

When will the next SSA deposits be after January?

After the January payments, regular deposits will continue each February of 2027. The date will depend on the group to which each beneficiary belongs:

• Wednesday, February 10: people born from 1 to 10.
• Wednesday, February 17: people born from 11 to 20.
• Wednesday, February 24: people born from 21 to 31.

Beneficiaries can consult the full official 2027 schedule to review the deposits for the following months.

On the other hand, those who want to know the exact amount they will receive with the COLA can check their personalized notice in their my Social Security account. The SSA indicated that digital notices will be available starting at the end of November for those who meet the enrollment and electronic receipt requirements; those who are not enrolled will receive the notice by postal mail in December.

One of them is the yellow sign, with two black arrows pointing up and one pointing down, called W6-5a, which is part of the official signage that warns about three-lane roads with traffic in both directions.

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) explains in its manual of traffic control devices when these signs may be used and what road configuration they represent, since knowing their meaning can help better interpret lane distribution while driving.

What does the yellow traffic sign with two black arrows pointing up and one pointing down mean?

The yellow sign with two black arrows pointing up and one pointing down indicates a three-lane road with traffic moving in both directions. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) includes this type of signage in section 2C.52 of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), the document that sets criteria for the country’s traffic signs.

According to the manual, signs W6-5 and W6-5a may be installed on three-lane roads where two lanes are designated for travel in one direction and the remaining lane for traffic in the opposite direction.

What is the difference between signs W6-5 and W6-5a?

The difference between these two traffic signs lies in the arrangement of the arrows, which shows how traffic is distributed on a three-lane road. In this regard, the FHWA includes both in Section 2C.52 of the MUTCD.

• W6-5 represents a two-lane arrangement in one direction and one in the opposite direction.
• W6-5a also warns of a three-lane road with traffic in both directions, but uses a different arrow arrangement to represent the road configuration.

What other yellow signs warn about changes on the road?

Among the warning signs considered by the FHWA is W6-3, which uses black arrows to indicate traffic in both directions. According to the MUTCD, this sign is recommended to warn of the transition from a divided multi-lane road to another with two lanes and traffic in both directions.

Another sign is W6-2, which warns of the end of a physically divided section of road and that there will be traffic in both directions ahead. According to the official manual, its function is to alert drivers before the separation between traffic flows ends.

The mechanism is part of the United States Postal Service (USPS) delivery system and allows mail to be handled without the worker having to exit the vehicle at each stop.

What is the small flag on U.S. mailboxes for

The mailbox flag, known in English as “mailbox flag or carrier signal flag”, works as a visual signal for the mail carrier. When it is raised, it indicates that there is outgoing mail inside the mailbox and it must be picked up.

The signal also helps distinguish a mailbox that only receives mail from one that allows both receiving and sending mail.

When should it be raised?

The flag should be raised when outgoing mail is placed inside the mailbox for the mail carrier to pick up. The procedure is simple:

1. Place the letter or envelope inside the mailbox, properly prepared for mailing.
2. Raise the outer flag to indicate that there is mail awaiting pickup.
3. Leave the signal visible from the mail carrier’s route.
4. Wait for the postal worker to collect the mail during their regular route.

Fuente: Shutterstock

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Does the mail carrier lower the flag?

Yes. According to the technical standard of the USPS, when the flag is activated to indicate that there is outgoing mail, it must remain in that position until the mail carrier lowers it.

Do all mailboxes have a flag?

No. The USPS distinguishes between full-service and limited-service mailboxes, a classification that depends, among other things, on the presence of the signal flag.

The technical standard defines contemporary and traditional mailboxes with flags as full-service units. By contrast, those that do not include this mechanism are considered limited-service and are intended for customers who do not want the mail carrier to collect their outgoing mail.

The same specification warns that unless the carrier has mail to deliver, they will not stop at limited-service mailboxes.

What color should the flag be

Although the mailbox can be different colors, the flag must meet specific requirements. The USPS standard establishes that it can be any color except shades of green, brown, white, yellow, or blue.

In addition, the flag must contrast with the predominant color of the mailbox. The rule indicates that the preferred color is fluorescent orange due to its visibility.

It is also important to know that the flag must be installed on the right side of the mailbox when viewed from the front; in this way, the mail carrier lowers it without having to apply excessive force.

What is spraying vinegar on towels for

White vinegar serves three functions at once on towels, which are exactly the ones that become most troublesome with use.

• It softens them, restoring the fluffy texture they lose and that becomes stiff.
• It deodorizes them, eliminating the characteristic damp or stale smell that appears when they are left wet or stored for a long time.
• And, perhaps most valuable, it restores their absorbency, meaning they start drying well again instead of letting water slide off the surface.

Step by step: how to apply it correctly

The procedure is simple and is done in the washing machine:

• Place the towels in the drum with no detergent and no fabric softener.
• Add between half and one cup of white vinegar to the fabric softener compartment or directly on the towels.
• Wash with hot water (or the highest temperature the towel can tolerate, according to the label), on a normal cycle.
• Optional, for extra reinforcement: do a second wash adding half a cup of baking soda, which enhances softness and deodorizing.
• Dry the towels well, ideally in the sun or in a dryer, so that dampness does not appear again.

It is not necessary to do it with every wash: repeating it every few weeks is enough, or whenever the towels start to feel rough or smell again.

Why is it important to do it

The key is understanding what ruins towels, and it is not ordinary dirt. With each wash, detergent, fabric softener, and minerals from hard water (such as calcium) build up in the fabric. That invisible layer is what hardens the fiber, makes it rough, and, above all, clogs the small loops of the towel that are the ones that absorb water. When those loops are coated, the towel repels the liquid instead of absorbing it.

White vinegar, which is an acid solution of acetic acid, dissolves that buildup precisely. By breaking down soap, softener, and mineral residues, it leaves the fiber clean and free; that is why the towel regains softness and absorbs again. And since it neutralizes the residues where bacteria and fungi settle, it also removes the damp smell. It does not cover it with perfume: it attacks the cause.

The University of Georgia recommends placing kitchen paper dampened with white vinegar over limescale deposits to help soften them and make them easier to remove.

The advice is part of a home cleaning guide published by the institution, which brings together different homemade preparations for the maintenance of surfaces and household fixtures.

What is the purpose of placing kitchen paper with vinegar on faucets?

According to the University, this method is intended to treat the limescale deposits that build up around faucets.

The procedure consists of covering the affected areas with absorbent paper soaked in white vinegar and leaving it on for a set period of time.

The institution notes that this technique softens mineral deposits so that they are easier to remove during cleaning.

How to use kitchen paper with vinegar to remove limescale

The University of Georgia recommends using only two items:

• White vinegar.
• Absorbent kitchen paper.

To apply the method, you must follow these steps:

1. Dampen the kitchen paper with white vinegar.
2. Place the paper over the limescale deposits around the faucet.
3. Leave it on for approximately one hour.
4. Remove the paper and clean the surface to eliminate the softened residue.

According to the guide, the goal is to make it easier to remove limescale deposits without having to prepare mixtures with other ingredients.

The University of Georgia recommendation is aimed specifically at the limescale deposits that build up around faucets.

However, before applying this method, it is important to verify that the faucet material and finish are resistant to the acidity of vinegar, to avoid possible damage to the surface.

In addition to the release of these data, President Donald Trump announced on Friday, October 9, a series of measures to try to reduce fuel prices. Among them, a deal with Russia to increase diesel supplies stands out, along with other initiatives aimed at increasing fuel availability in the market.

How much did gasoline increase in September, according to the BLS?

According to the data published by the BLS, gasoline rose 9.1% in September, with a cumulative increase of 34.2% over the last 12 months.

This increase strongly boosted the energy sector index, which posted a monthly gain of 5.2%. The agency also reported that:

• Heating fuel posted a monthly increase of 15.3%.
• Electricity rose 0.2%.
• Piped natural gas fell 0.3%.

How does the rise in gasoline prices affect overall inflation?

The rise in gasoline prices has a direct impact on inflation because it is part of the goods and services used to calculate the CPI.

According to the BLS, this increase accounted for more than half of the monthly rise in the overall index. During this period, monthly inflation was 0.6%, while the year-over-year rate reached 3.7%.

According to Kyle Moore, chief economist at The Century Foundation, quoted by Reuters: “The war in Iran continues to disrupt global supply chains, which directly affects the U.S. economy”.

What is Trump’s plan for gasoline prices to fall in the United States?

The Donald Trump administration announced a series of measures aimed at increasing fuel supplies and reducing pressure on gasoline and diesel prices.

One of the main initiatives was the deal announced on October 9 with Russia, which provides for an initial supply of more than 300,000 metric tons of diesel to the U.S. and international markets.

On the other hand, the government also promoted other measures to try to contain prices:

• Release of reserves: promote the release into the market of fuels stored in allied countries’ strategic reserves to increase supply.
• Expanded use of diesel: temporarily allow certain fuels used in agricultural machinery to be used in road transport.
• Increased domestic production: promote measures to expand the country’s fuel refining capacity.

However, specialists consulted by Reuters warn that the deal with Russia could have a limited impact on prices, because the announced volume represents a small part of market demand.

Trump’s bet that prices will fall

President Donald Trump said on September 9 that oil prices would begin to fall after the November 3, 2026, midterm elections.

“Right after the elections, oil prices will plummet,” Trump publicly stated at Joint Base Andrews before heading to Texas to take part in the Republican Party’s midterm convention.

Recently, in an exclusive interview with Montana’s NBC, he spoke about the suspension of diesel taxes in Montana.

“It’s something I could support, but we’re going to fix it very quickly; we’re going to defeat Iran very quickly, and as soon as that happens, oil and diesel will plummet; they will fall very fast, but it’s something I could do anyway,” Trump said.

For its part, the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) projected in its October report that gasoline prices will remain relatively stable during that month and will begin to gradually decline after October 2026.

According to the agency, gasoline reached an average price of US$4.35 per gallon in September, while for 2027 an annual average of US$3.56 per gallon is expected for regular gasoline.

This projection is based on a possible recovery in international oil supply and a drop in crude prices. However, the EIA warns that declines in wholesale markets will not be immediately reflected in the prices paid by consumers.

Different countries may require extra conditions for international identification, such as a specific number of blank pages or future validity periods that must be met. For this reason, it is essential that all travelers check according to their travel destination.

The passport rule that the United States warns about and that all travelers must check

On the official USA.gov website, intended to provide information about passports, it warns about the importance of verifying the validity period required by each country or airline. “You could be denied entry if your passport expires in less than 6 months,” it states.

The requirements imposed by the United Arab Emirates on Americans illustrate the rule: a passport with at least 6 extra months of validity counted from the moment you arrive in the country.

How to check the validity that an American passport must have according to each destination

The U.S. Department of State has a page called Travel Advisories with a search bar that allows users to search by country.

In the lower section of the site, travelers can enter the country they wish to visit and the page will redirect them so they can learn the passport requirements that country has for an American passport, travel restrictions, and other key points related to travel.

How long is anAmerican passport valid for

In general, the validity of this document will be:

• 10 years for everyone over 16.
• 5 years for those under 16 and in this case it does not apply to the renewal process, but a new copy must be requested from scratch.

It is not a payment from the government. Taxpayers can only claim the credit if they make qualifying cash donations to approved scholarship-granting organizations.

Who qualifies for the $3,400 tax credit?

The credit is available to taxpayers who make qualified cash contributions to a Scholarship Granting Organization (SGO). An SGO generally must be a 501(c)(3) public charity that meets the program’s requirements and appears on a participating state’s approved list.

Under the proposed rules, spouses filing jointly are treated as separate taxpayers. A couple can therefore reach the $3,400 maximum only if each spouse contributes at least $1,700.

Other key rules include:

• Nonrefundable: the credit can reduce federal income tax owed but cannot generate a cash refund beyond that liability. Unused amounts can be carried forward for up to five years.
• State credits: the $1,700 limit applies after reducing the contribution by any state tax credit claimed for the same donation.
• No double benefit: taxpayers cannot claim both the federal credit and a charitable deduction for the same contribution. Amounts above the allowed credit may be deductible if the standard charitable deduction requirements are met.

Which states participate?

States join the program voluntarily and identify the organizations that qualify. According to Treasury, 30 states have already opted in.

Taxpayers can contribute to an eligible SGO regardless of where they live, so they can support organizations in any participating state.

What can the scholarships cover?

The scholarships are intended for K-12 students and can fund qualified expenses, including:

• Private school tuition.
• Academic tutoring.
• Services for students with special needs.
• Books, school supplies and other educational materials.
• Computers and other educational equipment.
• Other qualifying expenses tied to a student’s enrollment or attendance.

When does it start?

The credit applies to qualifying contributions made on or after January 1, 2027. It applies to tax years ending after December 31, 2026, so eligible taxpayers who make qualifying donations in 2027 would generally claim the credit on their 2027 tax return, filed in 2028.

The rules are still proposed regulations, and the IRS also issued temporary regulations to help states and SGOs prepare for the launch. Taxpayers, states and organizations may rely on the proposed rules for contributions beginning January 1, 2027.

Before donating, taxpayers should confirm that the organization is on the IRS list of approved SGOs. Details are available on the IRS website.

A spokesman for America PAC, Musk’s super PAC, confirmed the total Monday. Some of the contributions haven’t yet appeared in Federal Election Commission filings.

Super PACs are political committees that can raise and spend unlimited amounts for or against candidates, as long as they don’t coordinate directly with campaigns. Musk’s latest total is closing in on the nearly $300 million he spent in 2024 to help Donald Trump return to the White House.

Where did Elon Musk’s $276 million go?

Most of the money went to two groups. Musk gave $158 million to the Senate Leadership Fund and $20 million to the Congressional Leadership Fund over the summer, according to published reports.

Those are the main super PACs backing Republican candidates for the Senate and the House, respectively. Musk also put tens of millions of dollars into his own America PAC.

America PAC has paid for text messages and digital and print ads in Senate races in Alaska, Iowa, Maine, Michigan, New Hampshire, Ohio and Texas. It is also working in at least a dozen competitive House races.

The group’s spending has largely tracked that of MAGA Inc., the super PAC aligned with Trump, which has more than $400 million in the bank.

Why is Elon Musk spending $276 million on the midterms?

America PAC spokesman Andrew Romeo framed the spending as a stand against the left. “If Democrats take control of Washington and win key gubernatorial and attorney-general races this November, then America risks becoming a socialist, woke and borderless country,” he told the New York Times.

Romeo said the money gives Republicans a real shot at defying history. The party that holds the White House usually loses seats in a midterm election.

Musk’s donations widen a fundraising lead Republicans already had. Through the end of August, the party’s committees and MAGA Inc. had raised more than $1.1 billion combined, compared with roughly $600 million for Democrats, according to federal filings.

Why is Elon Musk back after his split with Donald Trump?

The donations come just over a year after a bitter public break. In June 2025, Musk, who had led the cost-cutting Department of Government Efficiency, turned on Trump over his signature tax and spending bill, calling it an “outrageous, pork-filled Congressional spending bill.”

Musk then suggested Trump had ties to Jeffrey Epstein and threatened to fund a third party. He said he would step back from politics, as Tesla sales appeared to take a hit from his work with the administration. “In terms of political spending, I’m going to do a lot less in the future,” he told Bloomberg that year.

Relations have since warmed. Musk has dined at the White House, received the National Medal of Science from Trump earlier this month and was picked to co-lead a review of how to modernize the Pentagon.

His businesses also have a lot at stake in Washington. Musk’s companies hold billions of dollars in federal contracts, and some of his business interests are under federal review. SpaceX’s newly announced purchase of wireless spectrum licenses, for example, needs approval from the Federal Communications Commission.

Drivers are still required to register their vehicles and renew their registrations on time. The change only affects how proof of registration is provided. Vehicle owners must also continue to pay the required fees and property taxes and meet the state’s insurance and inspection requirements.

What changes for North Carolina drivers?

Drivers who register a vehicle or renew their registration no longer receive a physical sticker or a printed registration card automatically. Instead, they receive a receipt with information such as the vehicle identification number (VIN), license plate number, and a barcode that inspection stations can scan.

The receipt also includes a link to download a digital copy of the registration card. Drivers can save the PDF on their phones or print it at home for free. Those who prefer a printed copy can get one at a license plate agency or order one by mail for $5.

Do drivers still need to renew their vehicle registration?

The new system does not eliminate registration requirements. Drivers must continue to pay their registration fees and vehicle property taxes on time and maintain continuous insurance coverage.

Vehicle inspections are also still required. Drivers must complete the necessary inspection no more than 90 days before their registration expires. In 19 North Carolina counties, vehicles must also pass an emissions inspection.

What should drivers do with their old license plate stickers?

The NCDMV recommends removing old registration stickers on or after October 1, 2026. Drivers do not need to display a new sticker because the state no longer requires one.

A printed registration card is also no longer required by law. Law enforcement officers can check a vehicle’s registration status electronically, while inspection stations can use the barcode on the digital registration or other documents to look up the vehicle.

For more information or to download a registration card, drivers can visit the official NCDMV website

This home trick has a chemical explanation, since vinegar contains acetic acid, a substance that can react with sodium carbonate, one of the compounds present in hard water deposits.

It is worth noting that its application requires certain precautions to clean surfaces without damaging them.

What sprinkling vinegar on household faucets is for

White vinegar can help remove hard water stains and mineral deposits that build up around the base, the spout, and other parts of faucets. In this regard, the faucet manufacturer Delta Faucet considers using a mixture of white vinegar and water to treat this type of mark and recommends rinsing the surface thoroughly after cleaning.

The explanation lies in the composition of vinegar, according to the American Chemical Society (ACS), acetic acid reacts with calcium carbonate and produces new substances, including calcium acetate, water, and carbon dioxide. This chemical reaction helps explain why vinegar can help dissolve certain mineral deposits.

Among its main uses for cleaning faucets are:

• Reduce white stains: it helps remove certain mineral residues left after water evaporates.
• Loosen limescale deposits: its acidity makes it easier to dissolve deposits containing calcium carbonate.
• Make cleaning in hard-to-reach areas easier: when applied with a soft cloth, it allows the areas where residues accumulate around joints and the faucet base to be treated.

How to apply vinegar on faucets step by step?

To use this method, Delta Faucet recommends a solution made of equal parts white vinegar and water to remove certain hard water stains. The step-by-step process consists of:

• Prepare the mixture: combine equal parts white vinegar and water, whenever the manufacturer uses this solution.
• Apply to the surface: use the cloth to remove the residue, without resorting to abrasive sponges or items that could scratch the finish.
• Rinse with water: remove all traces of vinegar after cleaning.
• Dry the faucet: wipe with a clean, soft cloth to prevent water evaporation from leaving marks again.

However, this exception depends on the type of document and whether the traveler’s identity can be verified.

Which expired IDs does the TSA accept

The TSA confirms on its official website that it accepts expired IDs up to two years after their expiration date, as long as they correspond to the types of documents included on its list:

• State-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards that comply with REAL ID.
• Enhanced driver’s licenses (EDL) and enhanced identification cards (EID).
• U.S. passports and U.S. passport cards.
• Passports issued by foreign governments.
• Permanent resident cards.
• Border crossing cards.
• Department of Homeland Security trusted traveler IDs, such as Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, and FAST.
• U.S. Department of Defense identification credentials, including those issued to dependents.
• Photo tribal IDs issued by federally recognized tribal nations.
• Transportation Worker Identification Credentials (TWIC).
• Citizenship and Immigration Services employment authorization cards, Form I-766.
• U.S. merchant mariner credentials.
• Veterans Health Identification Cards (VHIC).

It should be noted that acceptance depends on the document belonging to a category accepted by the TSA. And, on the other hand, the exception refers to the airport security screening for flights within the United States.

What happens if you arrive at the airport without a valid ID

Since February of this year, passengers who cannot present a valid ID accepted by the TSA have the option to pay a USD45 fee to use TSA ConfirmID.

This procedure allows the agency to try to verify the traveler’s identity before the security screening process begins. However, paying does not guarantee that the identity can be confirmed or that the passenger will be allowed into the security area.

Do children need identification to travel on domestic flights?

The TSA does not require identification for minors under 18 traveling within the country. However, airlines may establish specific requirements.

There is an exception for certain minors traveling alone who meet TS PreCheck requirements: they must present a valid ID to access the priority security screening.

Which documents does the TSA accept to pass airport security

The official list includes U.S. and foreign documents:

• U.S. or foreign passport.
• U.S. passport card.
• Permanent resident card.
• REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID.
• Enhanced state license or ID.
• Department of Homeland Security trusted traveler credentials.
• Accepted military IDs.
• Border crossing card.
• Transportation worker credentials and certain federal documents.

The TSA also accepts certain digital IDs within its trial programs, including Apple Digital ID, CLEAR ID and Google ID Pass, subject to the corresponding participation conditions and availability.

According to Levi Strauss & Co, it is a compartment full of history and with a clear function, as it was intended to store a popular and characteristic object from the late 19th century.

What the little pocket in jeans that is sewn inside the larger pocket is for

The little pocket in the jeans, although today it is present in different models in a decorative way, was not incorporated for aesthetic reasons but for practicality: it allowed the pocket watch, also known in English as the watch pocket, to be stored there.

This compartment therefore has years and years of history, intended to provide a comfortable and separate place for an object that needed to be accessible in a practical way.

Another curious point about this part of the jeans is that, although it originally used to have rivets, during World War II the company made the decision to stop placing them in order to save the available metal so that it could be used in the war.

And what are the rivets on jeans for?

The use of small metal rivets can also be a mystery, and although they may seem decorative, they serve a specific function to improve the quality of the garment.

Their location allows the common stress points that pants have when worn, such as the pockets and seams, to be reinforced, which helps extend their useful life.

This invention was originally patented by Jacob Davis and Levi Strauss & Co on May 20, 1873, and has become a feature that would accompany jeans for generations and generations.

The money is the refundable part of the child tax credit, called the additional child tax credit. For the 2026 tax year, the IRS set the full credit at up to $2,200 per qualifying child, with up to $1,700 of it payable as a refund.

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act, a federal tax law signed July 4, 2025, made the expanded credit permanent and raised the maximum to $2,200. Future amounts will be adjusted for inflation.

Who can claim the $1,700 from the IRS for 2026?

The refund is tied to work income. The IRS requires at least $2,500 in earned income, and the Tax Foundation explains that the refundable amount equals 15% of earnings above that threshold, up to $1,700 per child.

For example, a parent with one child who earned $10,000 in 2026 could receive about $1,125. That’s 15% of the $7,500 earned above the threshold.

Social Security numbers are also required. The filer, or at least one spouse on a joint return, and each child must have a number that is valid for employment and issued before the return’s due date.

The IRS also sets several tests for the child. In general, the child must:

• Be under 17 at the end of the year
• Be the filer’s son, daughter, stepchild, eligible foster child, sibling, half-sibling or stepsibling, or a descendant of one of them, such as a grandchild, niece or nephew
• Not provide more than half of their own support
• Have lived with the filer for more than half the year
• Be claimed as a dependent on the filer’s return
• Be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national or U.S. resident alien

The full credit is available to filers with income up to $200,000, or $400,000 for married couples filing jointly. Above those limits, the credit shrinks by 5% of the excess income, according to the Tax Foundation.

How can Americans claim the $1,700 from the IRS if they don’t have to file?

The IRS doesn’t pay the credit automatically. Filers claim it by listing their children on Form 1040, the standard federal tax return, and attaching Schedule 8812, which calculates the credit.

Filing can also bring back money beyond the credit. That includes federal income tax withheld from paychecks during the year and any estimated tax payments.

Refunds that include the credit take longer. The IRS says it can’t issue them before mid-February, and the hold applies to the entire refund, not just the credit.

People unsure whether they qualify can use the IRS Interactive Tax Assistant. It’s a free online tool that checks eligibility for the child tax credit and its refundable portion based on each person’s situation.

Minnesota is no exception. The law establishes an order of priority among surviving relatives to determine who is entitled to receive part of the estate.

What does the Intestate Succession Law define in Minnesota?

Minnesota’s Intestate Succession Law of Minnesota establishes how the assets of a person who dies without leaving a valid will should be distributed, or when part of this estate is not included in this document.

According to section 524.2-101 of the Minnesota Code, assets subject to intestate succession are distributed among legal heirs following the order of priority established by law.

The distribution depends on the existence of a surviving spouse, children, parents, or other relatives. In addition, the deceased may have set restrictions in their will that affect the right of certain people to inherit the assets.

In which cases does the spouse receive everything in Minnesota?

Section 524.2-102 of the Minnesota Code establishes that the surviving spouse is entitled to receive the entire estate subject to intestate succession in two situations:

• When the deceased leaves no descendants.
• When all descendants are shared with the surviving spouse.

By contrast, when there are descendants who are not common to both spouses, the distribution is different. In these cases, the surviving spouse receives the first US$225,000 of the intestate estate, plus half of the remaining balance. The rest must be distributed among the deceased’s descendants.

What happens when there is no surviving spouse?

When a person dies without leaving a surviving spouse, section 524.2-103 of the Minnesota Code establishes an order of priority to determine who is entitled to receive their assets:

1. Children and other descendants.
2. Parents.
3. Siblings and descendants of siblings.
4. Grandparents and their descendants.
5. Other relatives.

Section 524.2-106 also establishes the rules of representation, which make it possible to determine how the share of the inheritance corresponding to a relative who died before the estate holder is divided.

What happens when there are no valid heirs?

When a person dies without leaving a spouse or relatives entitled to inherit, the remaining assets of their estate may pass to the state of Minnesota through a procedure known as escheat.

According to section 525.161 of the Minnesota Code, when a court determines that there is no surviving spouse or relatives, it must notify the state attorney general, who is responsible for protecting the state’s interests during the administration of the estate.

The regulations establish that:

• Funds and other personal property that pass to the state are held in the custody of the Commissioner of Administration and Budget. The money received is credited to the state general fund.
• Shares, bonds, and other securities may be managed, invested, or sold in accordance with legal provisions.
• Real estate is reported to the State Executive Council, and its eventual sale or disposal must comply with the procedures established by law.

This means that the absence of heirs does not mean that the assets are left without an owner, but rather that the remaining estate may be transferred to the state through the corresponding procedure.

To prevent this, it is essential to carry out periodic checks to detect them. When it comes to the toilet, there is a simple trick to put into practice that takes only 10 minutes and can warn of this problem.

The trick the EPA recommends to detect toilet leaks

The instruction is very simple: a few drops of food coloring or a dye tablet should be placed inside the toilet tank and then wait 10 minutes,

If the color placed in the tank begins to appear in the toilet bowl when the button was never pressed, this means that there is a leak.

It is recommended to apply this trick at least once a year to detect what are known as “silent leaks” and be able to take action to fix them. Once it has been confirmed, it is important to flush the toilet to avoid stains inside the tank.

Other recommended points to avoid toilet leaks

In addition, it is indicated that the toilet flush valves should be changed at least once every 5 years to preserve the seal, and it is recommended to be alert to other parts that may fail in order to replace them as soon as possible.

Signs that may warn of a water leak

Another EPA tip is to compare the monthly water bill with that of the same month last year to detect unreasonably high amounts.

According to the agency, a family of 4 people that does not use water outdoors during the winter may have a leak if its water consumption exceeds 12,000 gallons.

It is also advisable to read the meter at a time when water is not being used and then look at it again two hours later; if the reading changed, there may be a leak that needs attention.

According to Target’s official information, employees, including seasonal hires, receive a starting wage of $15 to $24 an hour, depending on the position and location. Actual pay varies, and available openings may differ based on local staffing needs.

What seasonal jobs does Target offer?

Target’s seasonal opportunities cover a range of responsibilities, from helping shoppers in stores to preparing online orders and moving merchandise through its supply chain network.

Available job areas include:

• Guest services and checkout: assisting customers and helping them complete their purchases.
• Stocking and general merchandise: replenishing shelves and keeping products organized and available.
• Style: maintaining merchandise displays and supporting the retailer’s apparel departments.
• Online order fulfillment: locating and preparing items purchased online.
• Supply chain operations: handling merchandise and helping deliver products to stores and customers.

Openings depend on local demand, so applicants should check the company’s careers portal for positions in their area rather than assume every role is available at every location.

How much does Target pay seasonal employees?

Target lists a starting hourly wage range of $15 to $24 for its team members, including seasonal employees. The company does not offer one standard rate for every job; compensation depends on the role and where the position is located.

Seasonal employees also have access to certain benefits from day one, although eligibility varies by position, average hours worked, length of service and individual program requirements.

The benefits listed by Target include:

• A 10% team member discount at Target stores and on Target.com.
• An additional 20% off select wellness products and adult owned-brand apparel and accessories.
• Access to 24/7 virtual health care and mental health support.
• Backup child care assistance when regular arrangements are temporarily unavailable.
• Early access to earned wages through DailyPay.

The company also reports that more than half of its seasonal store employees from the previous holiday season continued working at Target afterward. That figure does not mean every temporary position will lead to permanent employment.

How to apply for seasonal jobs at Target

Candidates can explore available openings and submit applications through Target’s official seasonal hiring website.

Here’s how to apply:

1. Visit Target’s seasonal jobs website.
2. Search for openings based on your location and preferred job area.
3. Review each listing’s responsibilities, qualifications, posted pay and schedule.
4. Submit the online application and follow the instructions for the selection process.

Target says store applicants may be asked to complete online interviews and prerecorded video interviews. Applicants for supply chain positions must submit an application and complete online assessments.

Because hiring needs and application deadlines vary by location and role, candidates should check the official careers portal for current openings and the specific requirements of each position.

Money counts as unclaimed when a business, financial institution or government agency owes it to someone who never collected it. It can sit untouched for years until the owner files a claim.

There is no single place to search for every type of unclaimed money. State offices hold the largest share, but several federal agencies keep their own records for wages, pensions, savings bonds and funds from failed banks.

Where is unclaimed money from forgotten bank accounts and insurance held?

Most unclaimed money ends up in state hands. Dormant bank accounts and insurance policies are among the most common sources, along with money owed by state agencies themselves.

The first search should be with the unclaimed property office in your current state. Anyone who has moved should also check the offices in every state they’ve lived in.

Relatives can search too. A legal heir may be able to file a claim for money that was owed to a family member who has died.

Which federal databases can help you find unclaimed money?

Money tied to federal programs, employers and failed institutions doesn’t go to the states. Each type has its own search tool:

• Failed banks and credit unions: The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. has a database of unclaimed funds from closed banks. A separate tool covers deposits at credit unions that shut down.
• Veterans’ life insurance: The Department of Veterans Affairs lists unclaimed insurance funds owed to veterans.
• FHA mortgage insurance refunds: Homeowners whose mortgage was insured by the Federal Housing Administration can check a Department of Housing and Urban Development database to see whether they qualify for a refund.
• Savings bonds: TreasuryHunt.gov finds matured bonds that no longer earn interest. The site also explains how to replace a lost or destroyed bond.
• Back wages and pensions: The Department of Labor lists back pay employers may owe workers. The Pension Benefit Guaranty Corp. helps former employees find pensions they never collected.
• Tax refunds: The IRS’s Where’s My Refund? tool tracks the status of a refund that hasn’t arrived.
• Investor payouts: The Securities and Exchange Commission lists money returned to investors through enforcement cases.
• Bankruptcy cases: The U.S. Courts Unclaimed Funds Locator shows money owed after a person or company declared bankruptcy.
• Individual Indian Money accounts: The Interior Department’s Bureau of Trust Funds Administration runs a search tool called Whereabouts Unknown. It covers accounts held for Native American and Alaska Native beneficiaries.

One option is no longer available. The deadline to claim unpaid stimulus checks, formally called Economic Impact Payments, has passed.

Although the choice is usually defined by price and personal preferences, each type has characteristics that affect its strength, absorbency, and performance. Knowing these differences makes it possible to choose the most suitable option for each household.

What are the differences between single-ply and double-ply toilet paper?

The main difference between single-ply and double-ply toilet paper is the number of layers of paper that make up each one, which directly affects its thickness, strength, absorbency, and comfort.

Single-ply toilet paper

It is made up of a single layer, so it is usually thinner and more economical. This usually helps it disintegrate more easily when it comes into contact with water. However, it usually requires a larger number of sheets per use.

Double-ply toilet paper

It is made up of two layered sheets, which provide greater thickness, strength, and absorbency. It is usually softer and more comfortable, although its price is generally higher. However, because of its characteristics, less of it can be used and it lasts much longer than the single-ply version.

How do I know which one to buy?

To choose between single-ply and double-ply toilet paper, it is important to consider the budget, comfort, the number of people who use it, and the characteristics of the home’s drainage system.

• To save money, single-ply paper is usually cheaper, but it is important to consider how many sheets you use.
• For greater comfort, double-ply paper may be the best alternative because of its softness, strength, and absorbency.
• For homes with septic systems, it is advisable to prioritize products that break down quickly in water.
• For frequently used bathrooms, single-ply paper may be more economical when used in large quantities.

Once the hammer falls, the new owner will decide whether the public gets another look.

Van Gogh finished the canvas on May 24, 1890, in Auvers-sur-Oise, the French village where he spent his final weeks. He died there two months later, at 37.

The painting headlines the Blaquier-Arrieta Collection, assembled by the late Argentine businessman Carlos Pedro Blaquier and art patron Maria Elena “Nelly” Arrieta de Blaquier. The 12-work sale is expected to bring in about $450 million. It also includes works by Paul Cezanne, Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Camille Pissarro, Paul Gauguin and Alfred Sisley.

How can you see the Van Gogh painting before the Nov. 18 auction?

The full collection is on view at Sotheby’s Maison in the Landmark Chater building in Central, Hong Kong, through Thursday. From there, the works travel to Paris and then to New York ahead of the sale.

You can also see it from home. Sotheby’s has posted the painting online as part of its “Legendary: The Blaquier-Arrieta Collection” evening auction, with a full image of the oil on canvas, which measures 28 by 23 1/4 inches.

How much could the Van Gogh painting sell for at the Nov. 18 auction?

Sotheby’s hasn’t posted an official estimate online; its lot page lists the figure as available upon request. Scott Niichel, a vice chairman at Sotheby’s, said the painting is in position to set a new auction record for the artist.

That record currently belongs to “Orchard with Cypresses,” a Van Gogh painted in 1888 that sold for $117 million in 2022.

Rarity drives much of the interest. Van Gogh made the painting shortly after leaving a psychiatric asylum in Saint-Remy-de-Provence. It is one of only eight of the 50 landscapes he painted in Auvers-sur-Oise that remain in private hands.

The canvas shows a chestnut tree in full bloom towering over a sunlit road, with a lone figure walking in the foreground and a small group further back. Niichel described the period as an unusually hopeful and energetic one for Van Gogh.

He also suggested the crowds in Hong Kong point to a possible buyer from Asia.

Why hasn’t this Van Gogh painting been seen in public in 60 years?

The painting has spent most of its history moving from one private owner to the next, starting with the artist’s own family. Its owners have included:

• The Van Gogh family: Theo van Gogh, the artist’s brother, received it after Vincent died on July 29, 1890. It then went to Theo’s widow, Johanna van Gogh-Bonger, and their son, Vincent Willem van Gogh.
• Samuel Fischer: the German publisher whose house, S. Fischer Verlag, was the first to publish Thomas Mann and Hermann Hesse.
• George “Buddy” DeSylva: the American songwriter and film producer who co-founded Capitol Records.
• Harriet Harris-Jonas: a collector who bought it in 1953. The Metropolitan Museum of Art led patrons on tours of the works in her Fifth Avenue apartment.
• The Blaquiers: bought it from the art dealer Wildenstein in 1975.

What the yellow traffic sign with a black “T” in the middle means

The sign warns that, farther ahead, the road ends at a T-shaped intersection. In other words: the road you are traveling on does not continue straight ahead, but instead ends at another street or cross route, where it will be mandatory to turn left or right.

Because of its color and shape, it belongs to the group of preventive or warning signs, which in the United States are identified by the yellow diamond and black symbols. In the country’s official signage system it is classified as W2-4, within the signs that anticipate intersections.

Why it is important to recognize it

The sign does not order an immediate maneuver, but rather prepares for one that comes a few meters ahead. When you see it, the recommended action is to slow down and anticipate that you will have to turn, because continuing straight will not be an option.

In particular, it is advisable to:

• Slow down as soon as the sign is detected, without waiting to reach the corner.
• Observe traffic on the cross street, which usually has right of way.
• Prepare to turn left or right, depending on your destination.
• Obey the “Stop” or “Yield” sign if it appears at the intersection, stopping and yielding before completing the turn.

At what time can residents be fined for not cleaning the sidewalk

Inspections can be carried out seven days a week, with inspection hours set between 8 and 9 and between 18 and 19 for residential properties. This means that the responsibility of keeping the sidewalk in good condition applies to both weekdays and non-business days.

DSNY warns about the importance of keeping these areas safe, since snow and ice can cause serious injuries.

How much is the fine for not removing snow and ice

The amount of the penalties increases according to the number of recorded violations:

• First violation: US$100.
• Second violation: US$150.
• Third violation and later: US$250.

How long do residents have to clear the sidewalk after a snowfall

The deadline to clear the sidewalk depends on the time when it stops snowing:

• If it stops snowing between 7 a.m. and 04:59 p.m., the sidewalk must be cleared within the following four hours.
• If the snowfall ends between 5 p.m. and 08:59 p.m., the deadline is extended to 14 hours.
• If it stops snowing between 9 p.m. and 6:59 a.m., the sidewalk must be cleared before 11 a.m.

If the ice is so hardened that it cannot be removed, DSNY advises spreading salt, sand, or another granular material to improve traction.

In turn, the agency establishes an express prohibition to prevent the removed snow from ending up obstructing traffic: “DO NOT shovel, blow, or push the snow into the street”. Residents may pile it up along the curb or near the building line, without blocking the roadway or pedestrian crossings.

How many feet of sidewalk must be cleared?

Municipal rules establish that there must be a path at least four feet wide, equivalent to about 1.2 meters, to allow pedestrians to pass.

It is also important to remove snow and ice from around fire hydrants and pedestrian ramps. On corner properties, access to the pedestrian crossing must be included.

What the black cross sign on a yellow background means

The sign warns that, a few meters ahead, the road you are traveling on crosses another, forming a cross-shaped intersection. In other words, there is a point ahead where another road cuts across the route from side to side, with vehicles that may appear from either the left or the right.

The vertical line represents the road being traveled, and the horizontal line, the crossroad that intersects it. Because of its color and shape, it belongs to the group of preventive or warning signs, those that in the United States are identified by the yellow diamond and black symbols. In the country’s official signaling system it is cataloged as W2-1, within the signs that anticipate intersections.

Why it is important to recognize it

The value of this sign lies in alerting the driver to what he or she has not yet seen. Intersections are one of the points where the most collisions occur, because they involve paths that cross.

Knowing in advance that a crossing is coming allows you to slow down, look to the sides, and be prepared to yield if necessary, instead of encountering the situation suddenly. That is why, although it may seem like a simple indication, it is one of the key warnings for preventing accidents at intersections.

In addition, there are other key steps -such as filing the corresponding reports- that must be taken to eliminate any extra charge that does not correspond to the holder’s use.

Canceling a credit card in the United States: how it is done

The CFBP indicates that to close a credit card account, it will be necessary to call the issuing company, explain the situation, and accompany the request with a written notice. This last step is a formal instance to leave a record of the request.

It is essential to consider that all people with an outstanding balance must pay what they owe on time, regardless of whether the account continues or not.

The official advice is to check the cardholder agreement and consult with the corresponding company about any questions related to this procedure.

“Among other provisions, the cardholder agreement details the applicable fees, your responsibility for unauthorized transactions, and the annual percentage rate (APR) of the card. If you have lost the cardholder contract, you can obtain it on the issuer’s website or by calling the issuer,” it states.

What to do if someone stole my credit card or the number

Those who have been victims of identity theft must report it at IdentityTheft.gov; after this step, they will receive a personal plan with the steps they must follow.

“For example, you can contact the national credit reporting agencies for help with activating fraud alerts or freezing your credit report, as well as blocking or removing fraudulent debts,” it is indicated.

What happens if the card is stolen and purchases are made

According to what is stated in a post reviewed in January of last year, when someone uses a cardholder’s card without their permission, and it was previously reported stolen or lost, the maximum charge that can be charged is 50 dollars.

“Many cardholder agreements say that you are not responsible for any charges in this circumstance,” it states. The same applies if the card was not lost, but the account number was stolen.

That is why a homemade, natural, and very economical trick became popular: boiling together a few basil leaves, a few sprigs of rosemary, and lemon peels.

What boiling basil, rosemary, and lemon peel is for

The main goal is to neutralize strong odors and naturally scent the room. By boiling these ingredients, the steam fills the air with fresh, citrus aromas that help mask and displace unpleasant smells, leaving a feeling of cleanliness throughout the house. It is especially useful in the kitchen after preparing strongly scented meals, but it also serves to freshen enclosed spaces or places with a damp smell.

Why it is recommended

Beyond the result, the appeal of the trick is that it is a natural, inexpensive, and convenient alternative to commercial air fresheners. It uses ingredients that are usually found in any kitchen, does not leave the air loaded with aerosol chemicals, and allows the house to be scented as desired by combining aromas. It also makes use of leftovers that are normally thrown away, such as lemon peels.

Step by step: how to make the mixture

The preparation is very simple:

• In a pot, put enough water to cover the ingredients well (around half a liter to a liter).
• Add the peel of one or two lemons, a few sprigs of rosemary, and a handful of basil leaves.
• Bring the water to a boil and, when it starts boiling, lower the heat to the minimum so it releases the aroma without boiling away quickly.
• Leave it over low heat for a few minutes; the scent begins to be noticeable right away and spreads throughout the house.
• Optional: add other aromatics according to taste, such as cinnamon sticks, cloves, or orange peel.

This change will also apply in most of the United States, adapting to sunrise and sunset times.

Although many devices adjust automatically, it is advisable to know when and how the time should be adjusted, and how it may affect scheduled activities and events.

When does daylight saving time end?

Daylight saving time in California will end on Sunday, November 1, 2026 at 2 a.m. At this time, clocks must be set back one hour and show 1 a.m. again.

According to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) this change takes place on the first Sunday in November of each year and marks the return to standard time.

This means that sunrise and sunset times will also be set back one hour.

Why does the time change happen?

The time change aims to make better use of daylight during the spring and summer months, when the days are longer.

Daylight saving time begins on the second Sunday in March, when clocks are set forward one hour, a measure that allows for more natural light during the afternoon.

With the arrival of autumn, the days become shorter and standard time returns to recover an hour of daylight in the morning, although it gets dark earlier.

Do I need to set my clock back manually?

Most smartphones, computers and internet-connected clocks make the change automatically, as long as the automatic date and time setting is enabled.

On the other hand, some devices require a manual adjustment, such as analog clocks, appliances and clocks in certain vehicles.

What happens with scheduled events?

Events, meetings, flights and other scheduled activities after the time change generally keep their established local time, as long as they have been correctly registered with the corresponding time zone.

The time difference between California and other states

• Washington and Nevada: cities such as Seattle and Las Vegas share Pacific time with California, so there will be no time difference.
• New York: California will be three hours behind, since both states make the change on the same date.
• Texas: California will be two hours behind cities such as Houston and Dallas.
• Arizona: most of the state will be one hour ahead of California, since it does not observe daylight saving time. The exception is the Navajo Nation, which does make the adjustment and will have the same time as California during standard time.

The National Administration of United States Highway Traffic Safety (NHTSA) sets recommendations according to each child’s age, weight, and height. In particular, it indicates that children under one year old must always travel facing backward.

However, turning one year old does not mean it is time to change the seat orientation. The agency recommends keeping that position for as long as possible, as long as the child does not exceed the established limits set by the manufacturer.

From what age can children travel facing forward?

According to the NHTSA, children between 1 and 3 years old should continue traveling facing backward for as long as possible, since this position offers greater protection.

The switch to a forward-facing seat can be made when the child reaches the maximum weight or height limit allowed by the manufacturer for traveling facing backward.

Therefore, the decision depends on the child’s growth and the characteristics of the seat used.

When that time comes, the NHTSA recommends using a forward-facing seat that has a harness and tether strap, elements designed to limit the child’s movement in the event of a crash.

Why is it safer for children to travel facing backward?

The NHTSA explains that rear-facing seats have a harness that holds the child and allows the seat to accompany the child’s movement during a crash.

In this way, they help reduce strain on the neck and the spinal cord, areas especially vulnerable during the first years of life.

For that reason, the agency recommends not moving up the orientation change while the child can continue safely using a rear-facing seat.

What other recommendations does the NHTSA make for traveling with children?

In addition to the seat orientation, the U.S. agency points out a series of measures to improve children’s safety inside the vehicle:

• Choose a seat suitable for the child’s age, weight, and height.
• Respect the manufacturer’s limits and review the installation instructions.
• Keep minors in the back seat until at least age 13.
• Use a seat with a harness and tether strap when the child begins to travel facing forward.
• Switch to a booster seat when the child exceeds the weight or height limits of the forward-facing seat.

The federal entity also reminds that it is important to use the child restraint system correctly on every trip, even on short journeys.

According to the official SSA schedule, payments are distributed on different dates depending on the type of benefit and, in certain cases, each beneficiary’s date of birth.

To check the dates corresponding to each benefit, beneficiaries can go to the SSA official payment schedule or access their personal my Social Security account to verify the schedule information and check other data related to their benefits.

Who gets Social Security on October 21, 2026

On Wednesday, October 21, retirement, survivors, and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) beneficiaries whose birth date falls between the 11th and the 20th of any month will be paid, provided they are included in the payment system established by the SSA for those who began receiving benefits after April 1997.

The SSA explains in its official guide on payment dates that deposits are distributed according to the beneficiary’s date of birth:

• Second Wednesday of the month: people born between the 1st and the 10th.
• Third Wednesday of the month: people born between the 11th and the 20th.
• Fourth Wednesday of the month: people born between the 21st and the 31st.

In October, those dates correspond to the 14th, 21st and 28th, respectively. However, this schedule does not apply to all beneficiaries since those who were receiving or applied for Social Security before May 1, 1997 have a different schedule that is worth checking on the official SSA website.

What is the last Social Security payment date in October 2026?

The last Social Security payment day in October will be Wednesday, the 28th of that month. On that day, retirement, survivors, and SSDI beneficiaries who were born between the 21st and the 31st, within the corresponding Wednesday group, will be paid.

So that users can confirm their specific date, they can check the Social Security Administration’s official payment schedule or log in to their my Social Security account.

According to the University of Arkansas, vinegar can be used to clean windows and mirrors, since its acidity helps remove mineral deposits and stains.

Through its Cooperative Extension Service, the institution shares homemade cleaner recipes, including a preparation that consists of mixing vinegar and water in a spray bottle to apply to the glass.

What is spraying vinegar on window glass for?

According to the University, vinegar is an alternative that can be used to clean glass surfaces.

Its main characteristic is acidity, which helps remove certain residues, such as mineral deposits, rust, and hard water stains.

The institution includes this ingredient among the alternatives for preparing homemade cleaners intended for windows and mirrors.

How do you prepare the vinegar and water mixture to clean windows?

The University of Arkansas recommends a simple recipe that requires only two ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons of vinegar.
• 1 quart of water (approximately 946 milliliters).

To prepare the cleaner, both ingredients should be mixed in a spray container and applied as usual. As an additional tip, the institution mentions using newsprint to achieve a streak-free finish.

It also indicates that if a more concentrated solution is needed, a mixture with equal parts vinegar and water can be prepared.

What other mixtures does the University of Arkansas recommend for cleaning glass?

In addition to the basic preparation, the institution shares two other alternatives for cleaning windows.

1. Vinegar, water, and cornstarch

• 1/4 cup of vinegar.
• 1 tablespoon of cornstarch.
• 1 quart of warm water (approximately 946 milliliters).

The ingredients should be mixed in a spray bottle.

1. Vinegar, water, and liquid detergent

• 3 tablespoons of vinegar.
• 2 cups of water.
• Between 1/4 and 1/2 teaspoon of liquid detergent.

In this case, the university recommends placing the ingredients in a spray bottle and shaking the mixture. This preparation is especially suited for windows that are dirtier.

Finally, the University advises preparing the mixtures in well-ventilated places and not combining bleach with other chemical products.

In this context, spices can become a simple option for scenting the home without relying exclusively on commercial air fresheners.

In its guide Cleaning Healthy. Cleaning Green, the institution explains how to simplify cleaning tasks and reduce exposure to certain compounds present in everyday products.

Another UGA Extension publication mentions the use of spices simmered on low heat, such as cinnamon and cloves, to scent indoor spaces without necessarily resorting to commercial fragrances.

What boiling bay leaf, cloves, and cinnamon at home is for

According to the institution, spices are used to naturally scent indoor spaces as an alternative to commercial room fragrances. The UGA guide also includes cinnamon sticks among the options for giving the home a pleasant aroma, along with ventilation.

The three ingredients appear among the options proposed by UGA Extension in its newsletter, where it suggests combining fruits and spices, and letting them simmer in a slow cooker or on the stove.

Among the ingredients it lists are cinnamon sticks, cloves, and bay leaves, as well as citrus slices or pine branches.

Why they recommend reducing the use of artificial air fresheners

In its publication Cleaning Healthy. Cleaning Green, the University of Georgia warns that EPA studies show levels of several common organic pollutants that are 2 to 5 times higher inside homes than outside.

Many of them come from the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released by household cleaning products.

The guide also states that keeping the house clean avoids the need for artificial air fresheners, and notes that some commercial preparations may contain benzene and formaldehyde, substances that can cause irritation in some people.

For this reason, it proposes simplifying the products used at home and turning to alternatives such as white vinegar, cinnamon sticks, and ventilating rooms.

How to prepare the bay leaf, clove, and cinnamon mixture

As a general reference, to try this alternative you need only a few ingredients:

1. Place water in a pot and add a cinnamon stick, a few bay leaves, and several cloves.
2. Heat and keep it at a simmer so that the spices release their aroma for a few minutes.
3. Make sure the pot retains enough water and turn off the stove when you are done using it.
4. Keep the room ventilated.

It is essential not to leave the pot unattended while it is on the heat, and to prevent children or pets from getting close to the hot container.

The new rates are part of an annual adjustment for inflation required under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Applicants who submit a request postmarked on or after October 16 must pay the updated fee if their application falls under one of the affected categories.

Which immigration fees are increasing in October?

The following fees will increase starting October 16, according to USCIS:

• Annual Asylum Application Fee: increases from $102 to $105.
• Form I-131, Application for Travel Documents, Parole Documents, and Arrival/Departure Records: the immigration parole fee rises from $1,020 to $1,050.
• Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization: the fee for an initial work permit for asylum applicants, parolees and TPS holders increases from $560 to $570.
• Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status: increases from $510 to $520.

Not all immigration fees are changing. The adjustment applies only to the specific fees listed in the official notice.

When do the new USCIS fees take effect?

The new rates apply to covered requests postmarked on or after October 16, 2026. USCIS warns that applications submitted from that date without the correct fee will be rejected.

Applicants should check the official USCIS announcement before filing to confirm the amount required for their specific request.

Owing is not the same as evading

Before getting alarmed, it is worth understanding a distinction that changes everything. Owing money to the IRS is a civil matter: it generates fines, interest, and collection actions, but by itself it does not lead to jail. Jail comes in a different arena, the criminal one, and requires that there have been intentional conduct of fraud or evasion.

Simply put: no one goes to prison for not being able to pay; the criminal risk arises from lying, hiding, or deliberately deceiving the tax authority. With that difference in mind, the two scenarios are easier to understand.

An overdue IRS debt can cost you your passport

This is a civil penalty and, for that very reason, the one most people do not know about. Under section 7345 of the Internal Revenue Code, if a person accumulates what the law calls a “seriously delinquent tax debt”, the IRS can certify that debt to the State Department, which in turn can deny, limit, or revoke the passport.

The threshold that triggers the process is adjusted for inflation every year and is around $66,000 in 2026 (including tax, penalties, and interest). When it is reached, the IRS sends notice CP508C and notifies the State Department.

From there, as a rule a new passport is not issued, a renewal in process may be rejected, or the one already held may be revoked. Someone who is abroad can receive a passport with limited validity only to return to the United States.

Tax evasion can end in prison sentences

Here we move from the civil to the criminal sphere, and that is why the requirement is much higher: there must be intent. Tax evasion, the deliberate attempt to avoid or defeat the payment of tax, is defined in section 7201 of the Internal Revenue Code as a felony.

The penalties are severe: fines of up to $100,000 for individuals (and up to $500,000 for companies), up to 5 years in prison, or both, plus court costs.

This does not apply taxpayers who simply could not pay: it applies to people who hid income, falsified records, kept double books, or deliberately lied. The line separating the civil problem from the criminal one is, precisely, the intent to deceive.

In this context, Dollar Tree offers a section of items for the season with prices starting at $1, including decorative figures, balloons and accessories that can help set the mood inside and outside the home.

What Halloween decorations does Dollar Tree sell for less than $3

Dollar Tree offers different options to decorate the home during Halloween, with items that cost between $1 and $3 per unit in the store’s official catalog. Some of the available products are:

• Plastic skulls: they measure 6 by 4.25 inches and cost $1.50 each.
• Foam pumpkins: they belong to the seasonal collection and come in various styles and colors for a price of $1.50 per unit.
• Polyurethane foam tombstones: they measure 17 by 11.5 inches and are priced at $1.50 each.
• Polyester hanging ghosts: they measure 36 by 26 inches and cost $1.50 each.
• Latex balloons with spooky designs: they come in packs of 12 for $1.25.
• Halloween-themed plastic ornaments: they have various designs and cost $1 per unit.
• Halloween tinsel garland: it is available in various designs for $1.50.
• LED lanterns: they are part of the seasonal collection and cost $1.50 each.
• Seasonal Halloween-themed garland: they come in different designs, are sold individually, and cost $3.

Dollar Tree also offers linkable chains in various colors, lawn stakes and articulated felt figures to decorate walls, with prices of $1.50 per unit.

When is Halloween celebrated and why is it celebrated?

Halloween is celebrated every year on October 31 and is one of the most popular holidays in the United States, where the date is associated with costumes, decorated pumpkins, candy and themed activities. However, its origins date back to a much older tradition than today’s celebrations.

According to HISTORY, the history website, in its article “Halloween: Origins, Movies & Traditions,” the holiday has roots in Samhain, a celebration of the ancient Celtic peoples that marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of the darkest part of the year, since it was believed that during that night the boundary between the world of the living and that of the dead became more blurred, so people lit bonfires and used costumes to protect themselves from spirits.

Over the centuries, these customs combined with Christian traditions related to All Saints’ Day, which is celebrated on November 1. In this sense, the eve began to be known as All Hallows´Eve, from which Halloween derives, and, later, the celebration became popular in the U.S., where it evolved into what everyone knows today.

The increase will be 3.6% and will apply to January benefits, so the updated amount will depend on how much each beneficiary receives. Among all programs, the adjustment will benefit approximately 76 million people in the country.

When the Social Security COLA increase is paid in January 2027

The key date for retirees born between the 1st and the 10th would be Wednesday, January 13, 2027. This group is part of the first monthly Social Security payment batch, which is generally deposited on the second Wednesday of each month.

The SSA schedule distributes retirement payments according to the beneficiary’s date of birth. Thus, those born between the 1st and the 10th usually receive their money on the second Wednesday; those whose birthdays are between the 11th and the 20th, on the third; and those born between the 21st and the 31st, on the fourth Wednesday.

“The 3.6 percent cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) will begin with benefits payable to nearly 72 million Social Security beneficiaries in January 2027,” the agency says.

The measure also applies to those who receive disability and survivor benefits.

What the SSA 2027 payment schedule would be for retirees born from the 1st to the 10th

If conditions remain the same, the Social Security 2027 deposit schedule for those born between the 1st and the 10th would be as follows:

• Wednesday, January 13
• Wednesday, February 10
• Wednesday, March 10
• Wednesday, April 14
• Wednesday, May 12
• Wednesday, June 9
• Wednesday, July 14
• Wednesday, August 11
• Wednesday, September 8
• Wednesday, October 13
• Wednesday, November 10
• Wednesday, December 8

How much will Social Security retirement increase with the 2027 COLA

Although the announced adjustment will be 3.6%, the increase in dollars will vary depending on each retiree’s monthly benefit. For example, by way of illustration:

• As a reference, a person who currently receives US$1,000 per month would see an increase of US$36 if the adjustment is calculated on that amount, bringing it to US$1,036.
• Someone receiving US$1,500 would move up to US$1,554.
• A US$2,000 benefit would rise to US$2,072.

The figures are mathematical examples and do not represent official individual amounts. The net payment may be different if there are deductions, such as Medicare premiums or other applicable deductions.

When will those who receive SSI receive the COLA increase

About 7.3 million Supplemental Security Income (SSI) beneficiaries will have a different date. The SSA announced that the 3.6% increase will begin to be reflected in the payments on December 31, 2026.

What is spraying vinegar on the car windshield for

White vinegar is a solution of acetic acid in water, and that acidity gives it two specific uses on the car glass.

The first and most effective is cleaning. Acetic acid cuts grease and dissolves hard water minerals, the ones that leave whitish stains after rain or washing. That is why it works well against insect remains, bird droppings, sticky tree sap, and water marks that the windshield wipers do not fully remove.

The second use, more seasonal, is helping prevent frost. Spraying a vinegar and water solution on the glass the night before, on cold mornings, helps delay the formation of ice and frost. The explanation is the same as why salt is spread on roads: dissolved substances lower the freezing point of water, so the glass has a harder time freezing.

Step by step: how to apply it correctly

The procedure is simple and changes only slightly depending on the objective:

To clean:

• Mix white vinegar and water in equal parts in a spray bottle
• Apply to the glass
• Wipe with a microfiber cloth, which lifts dirt without scratching

To prevent frost:

• Use a stronger proportion of vinegar (about three parts vinegar to one part water is usually recommended)
• Spray the windshield the night before a cold morning

In both cases, apply the solution only to the glass, avoiding dripping onto the paint, plastics, or rubber parts. If vinegar gets on the bodywork or chrome parts, wipe it off immediately with a cloth.

Why is it worth doing

Beyond convenience, keeping the windshield clean and clear is a safety issue: visibility is key for driving, and a glass surface with grease, water marks, or frost creates reflections and opaque areas that are annoying, especially at night or against the light.

Vinegar offers a cheap and handy way to solve it, with a product that almost everyone has at home and without the harsh chemicals of some commercial cleaners.

To remove those stains, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) includes a homemade cleaning method in its guide on Household Hazardous Waste.

The procedure consists of boiling water with salt, baking soda, and aluminum foil. Once the solution is prepared, the silverware is immersed and kept in contact with the mixture for a few minutes to help remove the dark layer and restore its shine.

The method works through an electrochemical reaction in which the aluminum promotes the transformation of the compound responsible for the silver’s darkening.

Unlike abrasive polishes, this technique does not require rubbing the metal surface directly. However, it is not suitable for all pieces: before applying it, it is advisable to know the characteristics of each object and the necessary precautions to avoid damage to its finishes.

What is boiling water with salt, baking soda, and aluminum foil used for?

The combination is used to clean tarnish from silverware, that is, the dark layer that appears on its surface over time.

This phenomenon usually occurs when silver reacts with sulfur compounds present in the environment and forms silver sulfide, a substance that gives the metal its blackened appearance.

The method makes it possible to treat that darkening without relying exclusively on commercial polishing products. To do this, it combines water, salt, baking soda, and aluminum in the same container so that the ingredients promote a reaction capable of reducing the dark layer.

How to clean silverware with boiling water and aluminum foil

The EPA details a simple procedure that can be carried out with common household ingredients. To follow its instructions, you must prepare the mixture and respect the exposure time of the silverware.

1. Pour between two and three inches of water -approximately between 5 and 7.5 centimeters- into a shallow pan.
2. Add a teaspoon of salt and a teaspoon of baking soda.
3. Add a sheet of aluminum foil.
4. Bring the water to a boil.
5. Fully submerge the silver items and keep them boiling for two to three minutes.
6. Carefully remove the silverware and wipe away the tarnish with a cloth.
7. Repeat the procedure if dark stains still remain.

During preparation, it is essential to be careful with the boiling water and use suitable utensils to remove the pieces. It is also advisable to check beforehand that the silverware is suitable for this type of treatment, especially if it has handles made of other materials, glued parts, or delicate decorations.

What chemical reaction occurs when boiling silver with baking soda, salt, and aluminum foil

The basis of the method is an electrochemical reaction that makes it possible to reverse part of the process responsible for the darkening of silver. When the metal comes into contact with sulfur compounds present in the environment, silver sulfide (Ag₂S) can form, depositing on the surface and giving it its dark appearance.

By introducing the silver and the aluminum into a hot solution with salt and baking soda, the exchange of electrons between both metals is favored.

Aluminum oxidizes, that is, loses electrons, while the silver present in the sulfide can be reduced and return to its metallic form. The sulfur passes to other chemical species during the process.

The salt and baking soda help the water conduct ions, which facilitates the development of the reaction. The heat, for its part, helps speed up the process.

However, there are exceptions for citizens of certain countries, who may present other documents or access programs such as the Visa Waiver Program.

What documents must foreigners present to enter the United States?

According to the CBP Carrier Information Guide updated in 2023, foreigners wishing to enter the United States must have:

• Valid passport, with 6 months of validity unless the country of origin is exempt from the rule.
• Valid U.S. visa corresponding to the reason for travel, whether tourism, work, or study.
• Form I-94, which contains the fundamental date and the conditions of stay under which the traveler was admitted.

What is Form I-94 and why is it important?

The I-94 Form is an entry and exit record used by CBP to document the admission of foreigners entering the United States temporarily.

This document records information such as:

• Date of entry into the United States.
• Immigration category under which they were admitted.
• Authorized stay deadline, where applicable.

It allows the admission status to be verified and determines how long a person may legally remain in the United States. This means that, even if the visa is still valid, the authorized stay deadline is the one that appears in the I-94 record, when applicable.

ESTA Authorization: Who can apply?

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) allows citizens of countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program to apply for authorization to travel to the United States without needing to obtain a visitor visa.

According to the State Department, citizens of the following countries may apply for this benefit:

• Andorra
• Australia
• Austria
• Belgium
• Brunei
• Chile
• Croatia
• Czech Republic
• Denmark
• Estonia
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Greece
• Hungary
• Iceland
• Ireland
• Israel
• Italy
• Japan
• Latvia
• Liechtenstein
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• Malta
• Monaco
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Norway
• Poland
• Portugal
• Qatar
• San Marino
• Singapore
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• South Korea
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland
• Taiwan
• United Kingdom

To be able to apply for this exemption, requirements such as the following must be met:

• Have a valid electronic passport.
• Travel for tourism, business, or transit.
• Plan stays of up to 90 days.
• Not be subject to restrictions related to travel history or dual nationalities explained by the DOS.

Mexican and Canadian citizens: What do they have to present to enter the US?

Citizens of Mexico and Canada have special provisions for entering the United States, especially when traveling across land borders.

In the case of Mexican citizens, they must present a passport accompanied by a U.S. visa or, for Mexicans who meet the requirements, a Border Crossing Card.

Canadian citizens, on the other hand, do not need a visa to travel to the United States for tourism or business. The accepted documents for entering by air are a valid Canadian passport or, in authorized circumstances, a NEXUS card.

The new limits apply to the 2026 tax year, so families will claim the credit when they file their tax returns in 2027. The amounts were adjusted for inflation under the tax changes introduced by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

How much is the adoption tax credit in 2026?

The maximum credit increases from $17,280 in 2025 to $17,670 in 2026. The refundable portion also rises from $5,000 to $5,120 per eligible child.

The credit can help cover adoption costs such as agency fees, attorney fees, court costs, and travel expenses. However, the amount a family can claim depends on its eligible expenses and income, among other requirements.

Who qualifies for the adoption tax credit?

The credit is available for eligible domestic and international adoptions, including private and foster care adoptions. The child must generally be under 18 or unable to care for themselves due to a physical or mental condition.

Income limits also apply

For 2026, the credit begins to phase out when modified adjusted gross income exceeds $265,080 and is no longer available at $305,080 or more. Married taxpayers generally must file jointly to claim the credit, although exceptions may apply.

How to claim the adoption tax credit in 2027

Eligible taxpayers must complete Form 8839, Qualified Adoption Expenses, and attach it to their federal tax return. The year in which expenses can be claimed depends on whether the adoption is domestic or international and when the adoption is finalized.

For domestic adoptions, expenses may generally be claimed in the year the adoption is finalized or, if it is still in progress, the following year. For international adoptions, expenses are generally claimed once the adoption is final. Families should check the IRS rules to determine when their expenses qualify.

The recommendation is related to the properties of vinegar as a cleaning product and its ability to alter the chemical trails these insects use to move around.

The University of Minnesota Extension (UMN) explains that a mild solution of vinegar and water can help clean the trails of some pests and temporarily interrupt their activity.

What spraying vinegar at the entrance to the house is for

One of the main uses of vinegar in this area is to clean the trails that ants follow when they enter a home in search of food or water. These insects usually move along regular routes and leave chemical signals, known as pheromones, that help other members of the colony find the way.

By cleaning those surfaces with a mild solution of vinegar and water, it is possible to temporarily interrupt that route and make it harder for ants to continue using the same path. That is why the door frame, nearby baseboards, and the points where their entry is observed can be suitable places to pay attention to.

In any case, this method has limited scope. The University of Minnesota points out that the most effective strategy for controlling ants is to identify where they nest and treat the nest when necessary. Vinegar can serve as a complementary measure, but it does not guarantee that the insects will disappear permanently.

What benefits vinegar has for cleaning the home

Beyond its usefulness against ant trails, white vinegar can be used for certain household cleaning tasks.

The guide Cleaning Healthy, Cleaning Green, from the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension, identifies it as a mild acid that can replace some commercial products in specific uses.

Among its main advantages are:

• It helps clean certain surfaces: its acidity can help remove some residue and dirt.
• It helps reduce the use of certain commercial products: it can be an alternative for some everyday tasks, as long as the surface material is compatible.
• It is an accessible option: it is usually easy to find and can be used diluted in water for certain household uses.
• It can help temporarily interrupt ant trails: it is a complementary measure when insect activity is detected near entrances.

How to use vinegar on the door frame and keep ants from entering

To apply it, it is important first to identify where the insects are entering and clean the surfaces where their trails are observed. There is no need to spray vinegar indiscriminately throughout the house.

Step by step, the recommended guide is as follows:

1. Identify the route: observe whether the ants pass under the door, through a crack, or along the edges of the frame.
2. Prepare a mild solution: mix white vinegar with water.
3. Clean the area: apply the solution to a cloth and wipe it over the compatible surface where the trail was detected.
4. Check the entry points: verify whether there are cracks or openings that allow the insects to enter.
5. Remove food scraps: keep the areas near the door clean and store food in closed containers.

The University of Minnesota guide also recommends sealing the cracks through which ants enter, removing materials that may favor their nests, and pruning branches that are in contact with the house and serve as access routes.

Although grass court tennis as such began to develop in the 1870s the decision to adopt yellow as the color of the balls only arose in 1972 with a clear purpose: to improve tennis broadcasting.

Why tennis balls are yellow: the 1972 decision that remains in place to this day

The International Tennis Federation (ITF), now called World Tennis, explains that although the balls used to play from the beginnings of this sport were black or white depending on the court, in 1972 the decision was made to incorporate yellow balls into the rulebook.

This came about because a study showed that the color yellow was much more noticeable than white or black for those watching the sport on television.

However, the ITF explains that Wimbledon only incorporated the then “new” yellow balls in 1986, about fourteen years after they were officially included in the rulebook.

The test all tennis balls must pass to be used in official tournaments

The yellow color of the balls is one of the most obvious requirements for professional use, but there are others of great importance that are not visible at a glance. As a general rule, all tennis balls used in official competitions must have been previously approved by the ITF, which carries out tests for:

• Environmental conditioning: the balls are kept for 24 hours in a climate-controlled laboratory and it is observed whether humidity and temperature affect them.
• Pre-compression and conditioning: they are subjected to a process to eliminate any deformation caused by storage.
• Weight: it is checked that they weigh between 56 and 59.4 grams.
• Size: it is verified that the ball to be used is the appropriate diameter.
• Deformation: it is assessed how much the ball could change when hit against the racket or the court.
• Bounce: the ball is dropped vertically from 254 cm to measure how much it bounces.
• Durability: this test was introduced in 2009 and measures the wear process.

If any of the manufacturing brands fails to pass the tests, it will not receive approval and will have to submit another sample.

In addition, there is a refundable portion of this benefit, known as the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC), through which several families can receive money when their tax obligations are lower than the credit they qualify for.

Who could receive up to $5,100?

Families with three qualifying children could receive up to $5,100 through the ACTC, corresponding to tax year 2025. This amount comes from the $1,700 refundable portion of this credit, for each child who meets the requirements established by the agency.

The benefit depends on the taxpayer’s earned income, the number of qualifying children, and the credit available after reducing their tax obligations. The full amount of the CTC is $2,200.

What requirements must each child meet to qualify?

According to what the IRS establishes, a child is considered qualifying when:

• Is under 17 years old at the end of the tax year.
• Is a biological child, adopted child, stepchild, eligible foster child, sibling, stepsibling, or a descendant of any of them, such as grandchildren and nieces or nephews.
• Lived with the taxpayer for more than half of the tax year.
• Did not provide more than half of their own support during the year.
• Is listed as a dependent on the tax return of the person claiming them.
• Does not file a joint return with their spouse.
• Is a U.S. citizen or resident alien.
• Has a Social Security Number (SSN).

What is the Additional Child Tax Credit?

It is the refundable portion of the Child Tax Credit. The main difference is that the CTC allows a person to reduce the federal taxes they have to pay, while the ACTC can generate a refund if the taxpayer qualifies and does not use the full credit to cover their tax obligations.

To access this refundable portion, earned income of at least $2,500 must be reported.

To claim the benefit, Form 1040 must be filed together with Schedule 8812, where the credit corresponding to children and other dependents is calculated.

What are the income thresholds to receive this credit?

The IRS establishes income limits that determine whether a taxpayer can claim the full amount or whether a reduction applies.

• Married couples filing jointly: $400,000.
• Single filers, heads of household and other filing statuses: $200,000.

These amounts correspond to Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI). When the credit amount is exceeded, it begins to be reduced progressively.

According to the Weather Prediction Center (WPC), under the National Weather Service (NWS), the advance of a cold front and the presence of abundant moisture favor storm formation in several regions.

The agency maintains a moderate risk of excessive rainfall in areas of western Texas for this Thursday, with the possibility of significant water accumulation in short periods.

Which areas are under threat from intense rain and flooding?

According to the official forecast, the risk of flash flooding is concentrated especially in areas of the southern Great Plains.

Among the regions affected by rain and storms are:

• Texas: especially the west and areas in the north of the state, where intense rain can cause flash flooding.
• Oklahoma: affected by storms and abundant precipitation associated with the system’s advance.
• Midwest: various areas face rain and storms linked to the same front.
• Ohio Valley and Mid-Atlantic region: also present a risk of intense rain and storms during this Thursday.

The WPC warned that the precipitation could exceed the drainage capacity in some localities, which increases the danger of rapid water buildup on streets, roads, and low-lying areas.

Strong storms and intense winds: what the forecast says

In addition to the precipitation, the National Weather Service anticipated possible severe storms during this Thursday the 15th in areas of the middle Mississippi Valley, the Ohio Valley, and the southern Great Plains.

These storms may be accompanied by wind gusts capable of causing disruptions, especially for those traveling on roads and highways.

On the other hand, the official forecast reported that the period of greatest concern extends from Thursday the 15th until the early hours of Friday, October 16, especially in areas of Texas.

In addition, the authorities recommend paying attention to local alerts, avoiding driving on flooded roads, and staying informed about forecast changes.

The Argentine footballer is the owner of MiM Hotels, a chain made up of six properties located in different tourist destinations in Spain and Andorra.

During 2025, the chain joined The Meliá Collection, the exclusive hotel brand of Meliá Hotels International. The six properties became part of the hotel group under a lease arrangement, while Lionel Messi remains the owner.

Where are Lionel Messi’s six hotels?

The MiM Hotels properties are spread across beach destinations, mountains and tourist cities. The chain has five hotels in Spain and one in Andorra:

1. MiM Sitges: located in Sitges, in the province of Barcelona.
2. MiM Ibiza: located in Ibiza, in the Balearic Islands.
3. MiM Mallorca: located in S’Illot, in Mallorca.
4. MiM Baqueira: located in Baqueira, in the Catalan Pyrenees.
5. MiM Sotogrande: located in Sotogrande, in the province of Cádiz.
6. MiM Andorra: located in Escaldes-Engordany, in Andorra.

Altogether, the six MiM Hotels properties add up to 444 rooms. The Baqueira hotel is the largest, with 137 rooms, followed by MiM Mallorca, with 98, and MiM Sitges, with 77. Meanwhile, MiM Ibiza has 53 rooms, MiM Sotogrande has 45, and MiM Andorra has 34.

What is his business like outside football?

The six MiM Hotels properties are part of The Meliá Collection under a lease arrangement. In this way, the hotels become part of Meliá Hotels International’s luxury offering, while Messi retains his status as owner.

Throughout his career, the Argentine footballer also built significant wealth off the pitch. According to an estimate published by Forbes in 2026, his fortune reaches US$1.1 billion, thanks to his sports income, advertising contracts, and investments in different sectors, including real estate and hotels.

For people receiving Social Security retirement benefits, the increase will amount to an average of $75 more per month. However, that figure is not a guaranteed raise for every recipient. The adjustment is calculated based on each person’s existing benefit, so the additional amount will vary.

How much more will retirees receive from Social Security in 2027?

The annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) is designed to account for changes in consumer prices. According to the SSA, the average monthly retirement benefit for retired workers will rise from $2,095 to approximately $2,170 in January 2027.

Recipients can estimate their increase by multiplying their current monthly benefit by 0.036. Here are three examples:

• A $1,500 monthly benefit: an estimated $54 increase, bringing the total to $1,554.
• A $2,000 monthly benefit: an estimated $72 increase, bringing the total to $2,072.
• A $2,500 monthly benefit: an estimated $90 increase, bringing the total to $2,590.

These figures are illustrative estimates before any applicable deductions. The actual amount added to a recipient’s payment may differ.

When will the 3.6% Social Security increase take effect?

The SSA said the new adjustment will apply to Social Security benefits starting in January 2027. The increase will also affect people receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI), although their payment schedule is different.

Approximately 7.3 million SSI recipients will receive their increased payment on December 31, 2026. Some people receive both Social Security and SSI, so the number of beneficiaries across the two programs does not necessarily represent separate individuals.

How to check your new Social Security benefit amount

Recipients will be able to review their personalized benefit amount through their my Social Security accounts. The SSA said online COLA notices will become available in late November for people enrolled in electronic notifications.

Those who have not signed up for digital notices will receive their letters by mail in December. The notices will provide each recipient’s updated benefit amount and applicable deductions.

The adjustment is calculated under federal law using changes in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W), published by the Labor Department’s Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The 3.6% adjustment does not mean every retiree will receive exactly $75 more per month. That figure is the estimated average increase; each person’s actual benefit change will depend on their current payment and any applicable deductions.

In this regard, through its official website, it announced the recall of riding lawn mowers due to the risk of fire.

The official statement explains that these machines were sold by Ace, TSC, Bomgaars, and other U.S. stores from November 2022 to July 2026, and instructions were provided for consumers who bought them.

Which lawn mowers are being recalled

The recall affects approximately 42,860 push lawn mower units of the Pilot and Premier models from DR Power Equipment. In addition, 340 units were sold in Canada.

The recalled units were specified in this CPSC table:

Product description

The agency says the recalled lawn mowers are orange and black, with the DR Power logo. Each one says “Premier” or “Pro” as applicable, and the model number can be found on the label located on the side of the chassis.

Where they were sold

The mowers were sold for between 380 and 550 dollars at

• Ace
• TSC
• Bomgaars
• Home stores
• Hardware stores
• Electrical equipment stores
• Online at drpower.com

Why were these lawn mowers recalled

“Grass and debris can accumulate in the mowers and catch fire, posing a risk of serious injury or death from fire and burns,” warns CPSC.

In this regard, it is indicated that the company received 19 reports of fire incidents, two of them reporting minor injuries such as blisters.

What buyers of the recalled lawn mowers should do?

The instruction for consumers is to stop using them as soon as possible and contact the company (recall@drpower.com) so that a free kit can be provided to repair the equipment. If there are any questions about how to use it, a free installation can also be scheduled.

One of them is the R10-19P sign, a rectangular white sign with a black border that shows the image of a front-facing camera, a symbol that can raise doubts among drivers.

The sign is part of the devices covered in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), the federal guide that sets criteria for signs, traffic lights, and other traffic control elements in the United States.

What the black-and-white traffic sign with a camera and flash activated means

The R10-19P sign is a warning about the use of cameras for traffic enforcement. Its pictogram represents a front-facing camera and makes it possible to visually identify that there is a surveillance or enforcement device related to vehicle traffic.

What the cameras monitor

The cameras can be part of traffic enforcement programs and help authorities document certain behaviors on the road:

• Speeding: some systems record vehicles that exceed the established limit.
• Running red lights: certain cameras document vehicles passing when the red light is on.
• Other authorized checks: some jurisdictions use surveillance technologies for specific purposes, according to their regulations.

What to do if you find a camera sign

The most important thing is to maintain safe driving and obey road rules. If the sign appears alongside a speed limit, a traffic light, or an additional warning, the driver should pay attention to the set of instructions and not interpret the pictogram in isolation.

It is also worth remembering that enforcement rules can change depending on the place. Before driving in a city or state you do not know, it is advisable to consult the official information from local traffic authorities.

According to dermatologist Sean McGregor in a Cleveland Clinic article, the time we spend in bed turns it into a breeding ground for mites, bacteria, and allergens and also a space where dead skin, sweat, oils, and dirt can accumulate.

In that sense, the recommendation to ensure a good hygiene routine when it comes to bedding is to consider everything from the type of water chosen to wash it to the way sheets are changed.

Why the bed should not be made first thing in the morning

The expert indicates that ideally the bed should be left unmade for a while after getting up.

The explanation is simple: both sheets and bedding accumulate sweat after a night of rest, so time is needed for the moisture to disappear.

When you do not wait before making the bed, the moisture present in the sheets provides dust mites and bacteria with a favorable environment to thrive.

Sheets are not washed with regular water: what is the recommendation

Likewise, the advice is not to wash bedding using regular water, but rather to opt for hot water, since heat helps eliminate dust mites.

Mayo Clinic also recommends the same to reduce the presence of mites: “Wash all sheets, blankets, pillowcases and bed covers in hot water at a minimum temperature of 54.4 °C to eliminate dust mites and their allergens".

How often should bed sheets be changed

According to Cleveland Clinic, the ideal frequency is to wash sheets every one or two weeks. Duvets and pillows can be washed every six months or as needed.

According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the cancellations were carried out in the federal health insurance marketplace and are expected to allow recovery of around US$2.2 billion in subsidies funded with public money.

Why did the United States cancel 315,000 health insurance enrollments?

According to CMS, the cancellations correspond to enrollments that did not have the corresponding authorization.

The agency explained that its strategy seeks to prevent new fraudulent or improper enrollments, eliminate those already identified as unauthorized, and strengthen oversight of agents and intermediaries who participate in the insurance marketplace.

In addition, CMS will continue working with insurance companies to investigate possible irregularities and cancel enrollments when it is confirmed that they were not authorized.

What new measures did the United States government announce?

As part of the controls, CMS announced new requirements for agents and intermediaries who process health coverage applications.

Among the main measures are:

• Require a new identity verification through Login.gov or ID.me.
• Request verifiable data, such as Social Security numbers or immigration documents, in applications handled by intermediaries, except for newborns.
• Prevent agents from being added to applications that users must complete on their own at HealthCare.gov.
• Require electronic consumer authorization before an intermediary can act on their behalf.

The agency also reported that, since January 2026, it has issued termination notices to more than 200 agents and intermediaries for noncompliance.

It also announced a temporary suspension of new agent and intermediary enrollments for the 2027 period when they do not have an active corresponding agreement for 2026.

The 71-year-old actor, remembered for films such as Die Hard and The Sixth Sense, sold the estate in 2018 for $5.5 million, after it had been on the real estate market for seven years with an initial price of $15 million.

What Bruce Willis’s mansion was like

The estate was located in Hailey, near Ketchum and Sun Valley, a mountainous region known for its mountains, outdoor activities, and appeal to high-net-worth visitors.

Willis bought the land in 2003 and began transforming the main house. The result was a residence of approximately 780 square meters, designed with a mountain cabin aesthetic and spacious areas for sharing.

Its main features included:

• Six bedrooms in the main house.
• A separate guest house.
• A private gym.
• Several ponds and streams spread throughout the property.
• An outdoor heated pool with waterfalls, slides, and a grotto.
• Patios and paths with heated paving to reduce snow buildup during winter.

What the pool had and how the outdoor heating worked

One of the most striking elements of the residence was its outdoor pool, integrated into a setting of rocks and waterfalls. The design also incorporated a grotto and several water slides, features that gave the recreational area the look of a private water park.

Heating was installed in the pool and in part of the paving on the terraces and the access to the main house. The system is designed to cope with low temperatures and local snowfall.

What the inside of the mansion was like

The main house had a mountain retreat aesthetic, with abundant wood, a stone fireplace, and large windows.

The living room stood out for its sunken layout, wooden pillars, and built-in shelves. The kitchen had also been renovated and featured dark wood cabinets, gray work surfaces, and high-end appliances. The equipment included two refrigerators, a six-burner stove with double ovens, and two dishwashers.

Upstairs there was a spacious primary suite with a gas fireplace, built-in shelving, and two heated balconies.

Although it seems like a minor detail, this arrangement has a historical precedent: the drawings in the U.S. patent US465588A, registered by inventor Seth Wheeler in 1891, show precisely that orientation.

What placing the toilet paper facing forward is for

Placing toilet paper facing forward mainly serves to make it easier to access the end of the roll and make each sheet easier to pull off. With the tip visible and away from the wall, it is easier to grasp it with your fingers and pull the needed amount.

Among its main advantages are:

• It makes gripping easier: the end of the paper is visible and within reach.
• It helps tear off the sheets: the position makes it easier to pull the paper and separate it.
• It reduces contact with the wall: it decreases the chance of the knuckles rubbing against the surface when taking a sheet.
• It allows consumption to be controlled: having the end visible can help estimate how much paper is needed, although it does not guarantee that less will be used.

What is the correct way to place toilet paper according to the patent

The U.S. patent US465588A, associated with inventor Seth Wheeler, is one of the best-known historical precedents in this debate. The application was filed on June 8, 1891, and the patent was granted on December 22 of the same year.

The technical drawings show the paper hanging in front of the roll, with the free end facing the user. This illustration supports the idea that the arrangement above the roll was part of the design documented by Wheeler.

The practical purpose of this orientation was to make handling the paper easier and allow the sheets to be taken and separated simply. With the tip exposed, the user does not need to search for it between the roll and the wall.

How to place it correctly

To install the roll with the paper facing forward, no special tool is needed. It is enough to check the orientation of the holder and make sure the paper can unroll without obstacles, in addition to:

1. Remove the previous roll.
2. Identify the end of the paper before installing the roll.
3. Place the roll on the holder.
4. Leave the end facing forward.
5. Gently pull one sheet to check that the roll turns and that the paper comes off without difficulty.

To carry out this procedure, the holder’s current license must meet certain requirements. Here we tell you what conditions they must meet and what documents will be requested.

Changing a New York driver’s license: who must do it within 30 days

The authorities specify that it is necessary to change the driver’s license within 30 days of being considered a resident in order to keep the card in order.

Eligibility will depend on the current license of the holder who moved from a state, U.S. territory or Canadian province meeting the following requirements:

• Have a photo of the holder
• Be valid or have expired within 24 months
• Have been issued at least 6 months before a New York driver’s license is requested

It is important to consider that, according to what the DMV indicates, students from other states or countries are not considered residents, so they do not have to change their driver’s license.

How is the change procedure carried out?

The authorities specify that the procedure can only be carried out in person by going to a DMV office and, for this purpose, you will have to:

• Take a DMV vision test or bring an approved report certifying that vision standards are met.
• Bring and hand in the out-of-state license.
• Pay the corresponding fees.

Those who want to know specifically which documents they will need in each case can use the official tool to carry out their own assessment.

How long will the license that New York issues last?

Once the procedure has been completed, NY will issue a driver’s license valid for up to 5 years.

The tally, released Oct. 1 by the center at New York University School of Law, covers laws passed since the 2024 election that make it harder to register, stay on the voter rolls or cast a ballot. Early voting is already underway in many of these states.

The states are Arkansas, Florida, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, West Virginia and Wyoming.

Several adopted their own versions of proof-of-citizenship rules that President Donald Trump has pushed nationally through the SAVE Act, a bill that stalled in Congress.

In which US states could you be turned away at the polls?

These states narrowed which IDs are accepted at the polling place, so a document that worked in 2024 may not work this time:

• Iowa: Voters without an accepted photo ID can no longer have another registered voter from their precinct sign an oath vouching for their identity.
• Indiana, Montana and New Hampshire: Student IDs no longer count as voter ID. Montana also ended a one-day window after the election for voters to confirm their eligibility when they cast a provisional ballot, one that’s set aside until officials verify it.
• Kentucky, Utah and West Virginia: Credit cards, bank statements and utility bills can no longer be used to prove identity.
• Tennessee and West Virginia: New photo ID requirements are in effect.
• Oklahoma: Vote centers, which let voters cast a ballot at any location in their county, are banned. Voters must go to their assigned precinct.

Which states changed the rules for registering or voting by mail?

Other changes apply earlier, when you register or send back a mail ballot. A missed step can leave you with a partial ballot, or with a ballot that doesn’t count:

• South Dakota and Utah: New registrants must show a document such as a passport or birth certificate. Those who don’t can vote only in federal races, which this year means the U.S. House and Senate contests.
• Mississippi: Applicants whose citizenship can’t be confirmed through state and federal databases must provide a birth certificate, passport or similar document.
• Indiana, New Hampshire and Wyoming: Some or all registrants must prove citizenship, and in Wyoming the rule also applies when updating a registration. New Hampshire added other ways to prove citizenship this year, plus vouchers for a birth certificate copy for low-income residents.
• Ohio, North Dakota and Utah: Mail ballots must arrive by Election Day to count; in Utah, by the time polls close. North Dakota voters can no longer return a mail ballot at a polling place.
• Arkansas: Mail ballots now need a witness signature.
• Indiana and West Virginia: People who vote infrequently face a greater risk of having their registration canceled.

How can you avoid being turned away at the polls?

Before going to vote, check your state election office’s website for the IDs it accepts and confirm your registration is active, especially if you moved or registered recently. In New Hampshire, students can get a state ID for free.

Some rules could still change. South Dakota’s proof-of-citizenship law faces a court challenge, and the American Civil Liberties Union is suing Ohio over its removal of suspected noncitizens from the voter rolls. Courts have already blocked laws in Kansas, Montana and Ohio from taking effect this fall.

Most voters won’t face new barriers, the Brennan Center found. Since the 2024 election, 32 states have passed 61 laws that make voting easier, and Republican supporters of the tighter rules say they build trust in elections.

The discount for automatic payments, known as auto pay, used to be a quarter of a percentage point. It rose to a full point on July 1, according to the Higher Education Loan Authority of the State of Missouri, known as MOHELA, which manages federal student loans for the U.S. Department of Education.

In practice, a loan with a 6% interest rate drops to 5% with auto pay, instead of 5.75% under the old discount. The larger cut is temporary and runs through June 30, 2028.

Borrowers who aren’t signed up yet have until 11:59 p.m. EST on Dec. 31 to enroll through their loan servicer, the company that collects their payments. Those already on auto pay with eligible loans get the bigger discount automatically.

Which federal student loans can get their interest rate cut by 1 percentage point?

Only Direct Loans paid out on or after July 1, 2012, get the full percentage point. These are the main type of federal student loan, made by the Education Department itself.

Some older federal loans don’t get the extra cut, including:

• Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) loans
• Federal Perkins Loans
• Health Education Assistance Loan (HEAL) loans

Private student loans from banks and other lenders aren’t covered, because the discount is part of the federal program.

Borrowers who aren’t sure what kind of loans they have can log in to StudentAid.gov, where their loan details are listed.

How does federal student loan auto pay work?

Once enrolled, the servicer takes the monthly payment straight from a bank account the borrower chooses. That means no mailing checks and no logging in each month to pay by hand.

Signing up is free. MOHELA sends a reminder at least 21 days before each due date, so the withdrawal doesn’t catch anyone off guard.

Borrowers who need to skip a month can ask their servicer to pause the withdrawal and set a different amount for that month.

Auto pay takes only the regular monthly amount. Borrowers who want to pay extra automatically have to change that setting in their online account, MOHELA says.

Can you lose the federal student loan interest rate cut?

Yes. The lower rate lasts only while auto pay stays on and the borrower keeps making payments.

If payments are put on hold through an approved break, called deferment or forbearance, auto pay stops and so does the discount. Both start again on their own when the break ends, according to MOHELA.

Bounced payments are a different story. If three payments in a row fail because the bank account doesn’t have enough money, the borrower is removed from auto pay and loses the lower rate.

How do you sign up for federal student loan auto pay before Dec. 31?

Enrollment happens on the loan servicer’s website. MOHELA borrowers can apply from their online account, where they can also read the auto pay agreement with the full terms.

Borrowers who don’t know which company handles their loans can find their servicer on StudentAid.gov.

Servicers can also help by email or online chat, which the Education Department recommends trying before picking up the phone.

The combination produces a visible chemical reaction, with bubbles and foam, which many people use to clean drains, toilets, and other areas of the home.

Why is it recommended, and what is mixing baking soda with vinegar for

Baking soda and white vinegar have different properties that explain why they are used in household tasks. The first is an alkaline compound that can help loosen dirt and neutralize bad odors. The second contains acetic acid, which is useful for treating some residue.

When they come into contact, a reaction occurs that releases carbon dioxide, the gas responsible for the bubbles. The effervescence can help loosen some residue.

On this point, the Poison Control Center of Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) recommends using recipes with baking soda and vinegar to clean different areas of the home:

• To clean the toilet, for example, you can sprinkle baking soda in the bowl, add vinegar, and scrub with a brush. Afterward, it is important to rinse the surface and avoid mixing these ingredients with other cleaning products.
• In the case of bathtubs and tiles, baking soda can be applied as a gentle abrasive, as long as the material can tolerate this type of cleaning. Vinegar can also be used separately on acid-resistant surfaces to treat certain mineral deposits.
• For drains, a traditional homemade recipe consists of adding baking soda and then vinegar. However, the bubbles do not guarantee that a deep clog will be removed. If the water does not drain, the recommended course of action is to use a plunger or a suitable cleaning method for the installation.

“Using non-toxic alternatives that you can prepare yourself can be just as effective as commercial products and much less dangerous in case of accidental ingestion. In addition, using homemade cleaning products also allows you to save money”, says CHOP.

When cleaning with this mixture, avoid combining it with other cleaning products. In particular, vinegar should never be mixed with bleach or household chlorine, because it can release chlorine gas, which is toxic.

This mixture can help with cleaning and removing limescale, but it does not work as a disinfectant or reliably eliminate specific microorganisms.

Before applying any of these ingredients, it is recommended to test them in an inconspicuous area and check the manufacturer’s instructions. Vinegar can damage marble, limestone, and other acid-sensitive surfaces; baking soda, for its part, can scratch delicate materials if rubbed too hard.

The openings may appeal to people looking for short-term work, while some positions can also provide a potential path to permanent employment. UPS says it offers competitive pay and flexible shifts, although wages, schedules and other conditions vary by position and location.

Which jobs are available at UPS?

Openings depend on staffing needs at individual facilities and delivery operations. Positions commonly listed through UPS’s careers portal include:

• Package handler: Sorts and moves shipments inside UPS facilities as packages travel through the company’s logistics network.
• Driver helper: Assists delivery drivers during routes and helps with package deliveries.
• Seasonal support driver: Uses a vehicle to make deliveries during periods of increased demand.
• Delivery driver and other transportation roles: Additional openings may be available, but licensing and experience requirements depend on the specific job.

Not every position is available in every city, and some openings may be permanent rather than seasonal. Applicants should check current listings and read each job description before applying.

What are the requirements for seasonal UPS jobs?

There is no single set of requirements that applies to all of the company’s seasonal openings. Eligibility depends on the role.

Driving positions, for example, may require a minimum age, a valid driver’s license or other qualifications. Package-handling jobs may involve physical work. Applicants should check the individual listing to confirm the conditions for the position they want.

The length of employment is another key consideration. Seasonal jobs have an expected end date and typically cover the busy holiday period, which usually runs from October through December. Some positions may require early-morning or overnight shifts.

Pay also varies. UPS does not advertise one hourly rate for all 100,000-plus openings, so applicants should check the wage listed for their preferred position and location.

How to apply for a seasonal job at UPS

Candidates can search and apply through the company’s official careers website: UPS Jobs.

The application process generally involves these steps:

1. Search for openings by location, ZIP code or job type.
2. Choose a suitable position and review its qualifications, pay and schedule.
3. Create a candidate profile and complete the online application. The process may include informational videos and a questionnaire.
4. Submit the application and monitor your messages for updates by email or text.

UPS says many applicants can receive a job offer in less than seven minutes. That does not mean every applicant will receive an immediate offer, since hiring timelines depend on the position and the individual application.

Job listings can change as openings are filled and new positions become available. Applicants should check the portal regularly or join UPS’s talent community to receive notifications about future opportunities.

Taxpayers must complete Form 8839 and meet the requirements related to adoption, qualifying expenses, and their income, according to IRS rules.

Those who meet the conditions can claim the credit on their federal return and, if they are due a refund, receive it by direct deposit into a bank account.

Who can access up to US$5,000 from the IRS in their bank accounts?

The IRS offers a tax credit for people who adopt an eligible child and meet the tax requirements. Receiving up to US$5,000 depends on eligibility, the applicable credit, and other return factors such as payments, other credits, and possible tax debts.

It should be noted that the benefit may apply to domestic and international adoptions, including those carried out through public or private adoption systems.

Form 8839: What requirements must people meet to receive the adoption tax credit?

To access the credit, the taxpayer must have an eligible child and meet the income limits set by the IRS. The child must be under 18 years old or physically or mentally unable to care for themselves; also, the expenses claimed must be reasonable, necessary, and related to the legal adoption process.

For tax year 2025, the modified adjusted gross income limits are:

• $259,190 or less: the income limit does not reduce the credit.
• Between $259,191 and $299,189: the credit is gradually reduced.
• $299,190 or more: the credit is excluded for exceeding the income limit.

Expenses that may qualify include adoption fees, attorney fees, court costs, and travel expenses related to the process, including meals and lodging. Expenses that do not qualify include, among others, expenses reimbursed by an employer or paid by certain public programs, or those used to claim another tax benefit.

In general, married people must file a joint return to claim the credit, although there are exceptions.

How to request the IRS refund of up to $5,000 by direct deposit into a bank account?

To claim the credit, the taxpayer must complete Form 8839 (Qualified Adoption Expenses) and attach it to their federal tax return. This form allows the corresponding credit to be calculated according to the expenses and applicable conditions.

In this regard, if a refund is due, the taxpayer may provide the details of a bank account to receive it by direct deposit, as long as the taxpayer has filed the form, meets the requirements, and is eligible to collect $5,000.

The research examined high-ventilation breathwork, a technique involving sustained, intensive breathing. Researchers used brain imaging to investigate changes in cerebral blood flow and the activity of neural networks during and after the practice.

How intensive breathwork affects the brain

The study included 30 healthy adults with previous experience in high-ventilation breathwork. During the practice, global blood flow in the brain’s gray matter decreased by 45.5%, from an average of 29.81 to 16.24 milliliters per 100 grams of tissue per minute.

Participants also experienced increased heart and respiratory rates and reported changes in perception and their sense of self. However, the researchers found no significant overall change in functional connectivity within the brain’s default mode network, which is involved in self-reflection and self-related thinking.

What the findings mean

The researchers concluded that reduced cerebral blood flow and changes in neural communication may contribute to altered states of consciousness through partly distinct mechanisms. The findings do not establish that the reduction in blood flow directly causes these experiences.

The study also has important limitations. It involved only 30 experienced practitioners and did not include a control group, so further research is needed to determine whether the results apply to people without previous experience or have any clinical significance.

The transition returns the country to standard time and changes the amount of daylight available at different times of the day. Although many smartphones and electronic devices update automatically, people who use manual clocks will need to adjust them themselves.

When does daylight saving time end in the United States?

The change takes place on the first Sunday in November, under the current federal schedule.

• Date: Sunday, November 1, 2026
• Time: 2 a.m. local time
• What to do: Turn clocks back one hour, from 2 a.m. to 1 a.m.
• Next change: Daylight saving time is scheduled to resume on March 14, 2027.

Most smartphones, computers and other connected devices update automatically. Traditional clocks and watches may need to be adjusted manually.

Which states and territories do not change their clocks?

Not every part of the United States observes daylight saving time. The main exceptions are:

• Hawaii, which uses standard time year-round.
• Most of Arizona, except the Navajo Nation, which observes daylight saving time.
• U.S. territories, including Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, the Northern Mariana Islands and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

These areas do not make the November clock adjustment.

How will the time change affect daily routines?

After the transition, mornings will have more daylight, while sunset will occur earlier. The exact effect on sunrise and sunset depends on the location.

Will the United States stop changing the clocks?

The debate over making daylight saving time permanent continues, but the current schedule remains in effect. Any nationwide change would require federal action.

The agency sets a minimum penalty of $525 for certain returns filed more than 60 days late, provided they meet the stated conditions. The amount depends on the tax that was required to be reported, so not all taxpayers will face the same penalty.

In addition, the extension allows the return to be filed later, but it does not extend the deadline to pay the taxes owed. That is why it is important to know when the penalty applies and what conditions the IRS sets.

What happens if a taxpayer does not file their return before October 16, 2026?

The extended deadline to file individual federal returns for tax year 2025 is October 15, 2026, according to the IRS. Therefore, those who requested a valid extension and do not file their return before that date may receive a late-filing penalty.

However, the minimum penalty of US$525 is not applied automatically on October 16 because for certain returns, the IRS establishes that minimum when the delay exceeds 60 days and the corresponding conditions are met.

When can the IRS impose the minimum penalty of $525?

The IRS sets a minimum penalty of $525 for certain individual Form 1040 returns and corporate Form 1120 returns whose original due date is in 2026, when they are filed more than 60 days late.

If the return is filed more than 60 days late, the minimum penalty for eligible forms whose original due date is in 2026 is $525 or 100% of the tax that was required to be reported, whichever is less.

Form 1040-X, the Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, is how filers fix mistakes or claim credits they missed on a return they already sent. The processing timeline comes from the IRS.

Filing electronically can cut one to two weeks off the wait because it skips the mail. Taxpayers can e-file amended returns for the current tax year and the two years before it. Older amendments must go on paper.

E-filers can also request direct deposit for amended returns covering tax year 2021 or later. They can file up to three amended returns per tax year.

Why could the IRS delay a Form 1040-X refund beyond 12 weeks?

Some amended returns need a closer look before the IRS can finish them. That extra review is the most common reason a return goes past the standard window.

The IRS says delays are likely when a return:

• Contains errors or missing information
• Isn’t signed
• Includes Form 8379, which a spouse files to protect their share of a joint refund from the other spouse’s past-due debts
• Is flagged for possible identity theft or fraud

Processing also slows when a return has to go to a specialized IRS unit. Examples include the bankruptcy area, a revenue officer, or staff handling an appeal or a request to reconsider an earlier IRS decision. The agency contacts filers if it needs more information.

How can you track your Form 1040-X refund status?

Status updates begin three weeks after filing. You can check through the IRS tool Where’s My Amended Return? or by calling 866-464-2050. Both are available in English and Spanish.

To check without logging in, you need your Social Security number, date of birth and ZIP code. You can also see the status, along with refund details and tax records, through an IRS Individual Online Account. The tool covers the current tax year and up to three prior years.

The tracker shows one of three stages:

• Received: the IRS has the return and is working on it.
• Adjusted: the IRS changed your account. The change can mean a refund, a balance due or no change at all.
• Completed: processing is finished, and the details arrive by mail.

Some filings don’t appear in the tool. These include business returns, injured spouse claims and returns handled by special units such as Examination or Bankruptcy. Amendments with a foreign address are also excluded, as are corrections filed on a Form 1040 marked “amended” instead of a Form 1040-X.

The American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC), administered by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), helps offset the cost of higher education by reducing the amount of federal income tax a taxpayer owes.

The benefit is partially refundable, which means qualifying filers may receive part of the credit as a refund even if they owe less in federal income tax than the amount of the credit.

Who qualifies for the $2,500 IRS education tax credit?

The AOTC is available to eligible taxpayers who pay qualified education expenses for themselves, their spouse, or a dependent claimed on their tax return.

The student must be pursuing a degree or another recognized educational credential and be enrolled at least half-time for at least one academic period that began during 2025.

The credit is limited to the first four years of postsecondary education and can be claimed for a maximum of four tax years per eligible student.

Income limits also apply

For the 2025 tax year, a taxpayer’s modified adjusted gross income must be below $90,000, or below $180,000 for married couples filing jointly. The credit begins to phase out when income reaches $80,000 for other filers or $160,000 for joint filers.

Qualified expenses include tuition, required enrollment fees, and books, supplies, and equipment needed for the student’s courses. Taxpayers generally need Form 1098-T, the Tuition Statement issued by the educational institution, although exceptions apply. They must also complete Form 8863 and submit it with Form 1040 or Form 1040-SR.

How do taxpayers claim the education tax credit?

Taxpayers must claim the AOTC when filing their federal income tax return. They should complete Form 8863 and attach it to Form 1040 or Form 1040-SR. The form calculates both the refundable and nonrefundable portions of the credit.

The IRS does not automatically deposit $2,500 into every eligible family’s bank account. Instead, the credit is applied to the taxpayer’s return. If the taxpayer qualifies for a refund, the refundable portion may be included in it; the timing and payment method depend on the return and the IRS’s processing.

Taxpayers should keep records of tuition payments and other qualified expenses, along with the information provided by their educational institution. They should also check the official IRS instructions to confirm their eligibility before claiming the credit.

Since the visa is stamped in each traveler’s passport, there are key precautions that must be taken to avoid any inconvenience that could invalidate it.

In this regard, it is specified how to act if an American passport expires, but still has a valid and usable American visa.

American visa: the mistake you must not make with the passport when you have a valid visa

The State Department explains on its official American visa inquiry website that all people with a valid visa in an expired passport must travel with both passports.

It is essential that no traveler attempt to remove the visa from the expired passport to paste it manually into the new valid passport, since this completely invalidates its validity.

What those who have a valid visa in an expired passport should do

In these cases, the official instruction is to obtain a new passport -since an internationally valid identification document for travel will be required- and also carry the expired passport that contains the valid visa.

“When you arrive at the U.S. port of entry (POE, generally an airport or land border), the Customs and Border Protection Immigration Officer will review your visa in the old passport and, if they decide to admit you to the United States, will stamp your new passport with an admission stamp along with the notation ‘VIOPP’ (visa in other passport),” it states.

What happens if the American visa expires while a traveler is in the United States

Entering with a valid American visa is necessary for all people who must have this document to travel; however, the authorities explain that if it expires during the stay, it is not considered a problem.

The authorized length of stay -which must be strictly respected- is specified upon each person’s entry.

“You may remain in the United States during your authorized period of stay, even if your visa expires while you are in the United States,” it states.

The rules are part of the department’s interview waiver policy, in effect since Oct. 1, 2025, and still the current guidance. It requires nearly all temporary, or nonimmigrant, visa applicants to interview, including children under 14 and adults over 79.

Which US visas can foreigners renew without an interview?

The waiver covers a short list of applicants:

• People renewing a B-1/B-2 visa for business or tourism.
• Mexican citizens renewing a Border Crossing Card.
• People renewing an H-2A visa for temporary agricultural work.
• Diplomatic and official visa applicants, such as the A, G and NATO categories, whether they are applying for the first time or renewing.

Everyone else needs an interview to renew, including students, exchange visitors and H-1B workers.

What requirements must foreigners meet to renew a US visa without an interview?

Tourist, business, Border Crossing Card and H-2A renewals qualify only if the previous visa expired less than 12 months ago and was issued for full validity, the longest period allowed for that visa type and nationality. The applicant must also have been at least 18 when it was issued.

All waiver applicants must also:

• Apply in their country of nationality or usual residence.
• Have no prior visa refusals, unless the refusal was overcome or waived.
• Show no apparent or potential grounds for ineligibility.

Consular officers can still require an interview from any applicant, for any reason. The department advises checking the website of the U.S. embassy or consulate where you plan to apply.

What other US visa changes took effect in 2026, and do they affect interview waivers?

Three other updates arrived this year. None changes who qualifies for a waiver.

Paid appointments for tourist and business visas

A pilot running through Dec. 31 lets B visa applicants pay $750 on top of the $185 application fee for an interview within 10 business days, if slots are available. It’s offered at U.S. posts in Canada, Mexico, Colombia, Costa Rica, Guatemala and Honduras.

The fee is nonrefundable and buys only an earlier slot, not approval. Waiver-eligible applicants can’t use it, since it’s limited to applicants with an interview scheduled.

Social media checks for more visa types

Since Oct. 1, applicants for I visas, which cover foreign media representatives, and for TN and TD visas, which cover professionals and dependents under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, must set their social media profiles to public. The screening already applied to students, H-1B workers and other groups, but not to B-1/B-2 or H-2A applicants.

Immigrant visa pause lifted

A pause on immigrant visas for nationals of 75 countries, including Brazil, Colombia, Cuba and Haiti, began Jan. 21. It ended Aug. 21 under a court order in CLINIC et al. v. Rubio. It never applied to tourist or other nonimmigrant visas.

This modernization does not mean that travelers stop having an official record of their entry or that the use of passport stamps disappears completely.

For tourists, the main recommendation is to check that their entry appears correctly in the system and pay attention to the authorized period of stay to avoid confusion about the conditions of admission, even when the passport does not have a new stamp.

The United States stopped stamping passports at initial immigration control

As of October 1, 2026, the CBP stopped routinely using the admission stamp during initial immigration control, known as primary processing. This measure was communicated through a bulletin from the agency’s Carrier Liaison Program, distributed by the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA).

The change alters a common practice in the entry procedure, but it does not eliminate the immigration record or mean that officers have stopped using stamps in all circumstances. According to the notice, these may still be placed during a secondary inspection and in limited situations during primary processing.

What is the I-94 form and how is entry into the US recorded?

The I-94 form is the arrival and departure record of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that documents the admission of certain foreign travelers to the U.S. In its electronic version, it allows users to check information such as the date of entry, the admission category, and the authorized period of stay.

The digitization of the I-94 began years ago, before this change, since in 2013 CBP began automating the form for many people entering by air or by sea, so they no longer routinely received the paper version, but at that time the agency clarified that it would continue placing the admission stamp on the travel document.

The difference in 2026 is that the physical stamp stops being placed as a routine practice during initial control, while the electronic record continues documenting the admission. Therefore, the absence of a stamp does not mean that the entry was left unrecorded.

What changes for tourists

With this new policy, tourists entering the United States may receive their passport without an admission stamp during initial immigration control. After arriving in the country, travelers can check their record on the official I-94 form website and verify that the information is correct. Among the data tourists should verify are:

• Personal information: check that the identifying details correspond to the traveler.
• Date of admission: review that the record correctly reflects entry into the country.
• Authorized period of stay: verify until when the stay is authorized according to the admission granted.
• Admission category: check that it matches the conditions under which entry was authorized.

For many travelers who enter by air or by sea, the electronic record is generated during the admission process, so they do not need to complete the form to replace the stamp after landing. In this regard, CBP allows the record to be consulted online and if travelers detect errors, they can contact the corresponding deferred inspection office to find out how to request a correction.

Under the new guidance, the agency will no longer enforce specific federal registration and prior-approval requirements for silencers and several other categories of firearms.

Announced on October 9, 2026, the policy also covers short-barreled rifles, short-barreled shotguns and certain concealable firearms legally classified as “any other weapons” (AOWs).

The change follows the U.S. Department of Justice’s decision not to appeal an August court ruling. Although the original injunction applied only to parties covered by the lawsuit, the administration decided to extend its nonenforcement policy to other individuals as well.

Which federal requirements will ATF no longer enforce?

Under the new guidance, ATF will stop enforcing certain NFA provisions governing the making, registration and transfer of the firearms covered by the policy.

The changes include the requirement to obtain prior ATF approval before making or transferring these items, as well as federal provisions requiring their inclusion in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. Related tax-stamp and certain marking requirements are also covered by the policy.

The affected categories include:

• Silencers or suppressors, devices designed to reduce the sound of a gunshot.
• Short-barreled rifles, which are subject to specific federal firearms regulations.
• Short-barreled shotguns, which fall under the NFA.
• Certain other concealable firearms, a legal category that includes specific weapons other than pistols and revolvers.

The policy does not mean these firearms are completely unregulated. ATF will continue enforcing other applicable federal laws, and the guidance is limited to the provisions covered by the agency’s new enforcement policy.

What gun laws and restrictions remain in effect?

State and local gun laws remain in force. The federal guidance does not give individuals blanket permission to possess or transfer silencers and other NFA firearms wherever they choose.

Federally licensed firearms dealers must still complete ATF Form 4473, conduct applicable background checks through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) and maintain transaction records. Other requirements under the Gun Control Act also remain in place.

People transporting short-barreled rifles or short-barreled shotguns across state lines must still obtain the required federal authorization by filing Form 20, even if the firearm is not registered under the NFA.

The policy also does not eliminate the $200 federal tax that continues to apply to machine guns and destructive devices. Those categories remain fully subject to the NFA’s requirements. ATF will continue accepting voluntary registration applications as well.

To access these forms of tax relief, it is necessary to meet a series of requirements that vary depending on each benefit.

The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) can be claimed by both taxpayers with qualifying children and those without them. However, the amount of the credit varies and can increase depending on the number of qualifying children included on the return.

Who could receive up to US$4,427 from the IRS in 2027?

The IRS states that taxpayers with low or moderate incomes who claim a qualifying child could receive up to $4,427 as a refund of the Earned Income Tax Credit after filing the return in the next tax season.

The maximum amount a taxpayer can receive may vary depending on the number of children that meet the requirements established by the agency:

• No children: $664.
• One child: $4,427.
• Two children: $7,316.
• Three or more children: $8,231.

To obtain the EITC corresponding to a child, the taxpayer’s adjusted gross income must be less than US$51,593, or US$58,863 if they are married and file a joint return.

What requirements must be met to claim this credit on the Tax Return?

According to the IRS, taxpayers who want to claim the EITC must meet a series of requirements related to their income, immigration status, identification, and family composition:

• Have earned income, whether as an employee, self-employed worker, or certain disability income.
• Be below the earned income limits as well as the adjusted gross income limit.
• Have a valid Social Security number (SSN).
• Not file Form 2555 used to report income earned abroad.
• Those who are married and file separate returns can only access the benefit in specific circumstances.

On the other hand, the child claimed must meet the conditions of relationship, age, residence, and joint return.

Common errors to keep in mind that can delay your refund

Errors such as filing a tax return with incorrect information can delay the delivery of the refund, trigger an audit, or even cause part or all of the claimed credit to be denied.

The most common errors are:

• Claiming a child who does not meet the requirements.
• Claiming a child who was already included on another return.
• Entering the SSN incorrectly.
• Reporting incorrect income or expenses.

For this reason, it is recommended to carefully review the information being filed before submitting it to the IRS and keep the documents and records that can verify both income and the eligibility of the children claimed.

One of its most attractive characteristics is that there are varieties of different sizes, from small specimens to larger trees. This diversity makes it possible to choose options for patios and residential gardens, as long as one takes into account how much space the plant will occupy when it reaches maturity.

The University of Florida, through its Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS), highlights its use in urban and suburban gardens, as well as its long blooming period and drought tolerance once established.

What crape myrtle is like and why it can provide shade in summer

The crape myrtle is an ornamental tree native to Asia that is characterized by its flower clusters, with shades that can range from white to pink, red, lavender, and purple. According to the University of Florida, blooming occurs from late spring through summer, although the exact period depends on the variety and weather conditions.

In addition to its flowers, this tree develops a canopy of varying shape, which can be more upright or spread out to the sides. The foliage of the crape myrtle can provide shade in the warm months, while its leaves change to yellow, orange, or reddish tones during autumn, which adds ornamental interest throughout the year.

One example of varieties for patios and small gardens is the “Tonto” crape myrtle, which reaches between 1.5 and 3 meters in height and produces red flowers during the summer, according to the University of Florida.

How much space crape myrtle needs and how to care for it in a small yard

To grow a crape myrtle in a small space, it is important to choose a compact variety and provide it with the right conditions. In this regard, the University of Florida offers recommendations that help determine where to plant it and how to maintain it:

• Choose a smaller variety: there are compact cultivars that adapt better to small yards than larger specimens.
• Look for a sunny spot: crape myrtle needs full sun to grow and bloom properly.
• Prioritize well-drained soil: it can grow in different types of soil, as long as water does not collect around the roots.
• Water during establishment: although it is drought tolerant once established, it needs watering while it adapts to the location and during extended dry periods.
• Avoid excessive pruning: cutting branches back drastically to control its size can damage the tree’s structure.

For these cases, there is a home trick that uses baking soda, an ingredient many people have in their homes, and that can also be used for certain cleaning tasks.

According to the specialized brand Arm & Hammer on its website, placing baking soda on carpets can help absorb odors and freshen the surface. In addition, the process is simple and does not require using liquid cleaning products.

What is putting baking soda on the carpet for?

Baking soda can be used to help reduce the unpleasant odors that build up in carpets over time.

According to Arm & Hammer, this ingredient helps freshen carpets during routine cleaning tasks. The company recommends applying it directly to the dry surface and then removing it with a vacuum cleaner.

The method can also be used on carpets located in high-traffic areas, such as hallways, entrances, or spaces near sofas.

However, it is important to keep in mind that baking soda does not replace a deep cleaning when the carpet has stubborn stains or accumulated dirt. Its use to freshen the surface is different from procedures intended to treat specific stains.

How long should baking soda be left on the carpet?

According to the recommendations, the baking soda should be left to act for at least 15 minutes before being removed with a vacuum cleaner.

The company also notes that it can remain longer and suggests, as an alternative, leaving it overnight and vacuuming it the next morning.

The waiting time may vary depending on how you want to use it. For example, the procedures for treating grease stains or non-grease stains are different and require other steps.

How do you apply baking soda to the carpet?

To use this home trick, the brand recommends following a simple procedure:

1. Check the carpet: before applying the baking soda for the first time, test it in an inconspicuous area to make sure it does not affect the color.
2. Sprinkle the product: spread a light layer of baking soda over the dry carpet. In areas with more traffic, a slightly larger amount can be used.
3. Let it work: wait at least about 15 minutes. It can also be left overnight, according to the brand’s recommendation.
4. Vacuum the surface: remove the baking soda with a vacuum cleaner, as is done during regular cleaning.

The company clarifies that, for this maintenance procedure, the carpet must be dry before the baking soda is applied.

In that context, and after the recent October 12 holiday, it is common to wonder when the next holiday in the country is scheduled for.

According to the official schedule, the next one on the list will take place on Wednesday, November 11.

US National Holiday: What is commemorated on November 11

On November 11, the United States commemorates Veterans Day, which was declared a legal holiday in 1938, although its name was officially adopted in 1954.

It is celebrated on November 11 because in 1919 this day marked the first anniversary of the end of World War I.

“It is celebrated with tributes, parades, and solemn ceremonies. However, the most important observance is the ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington Cemetery, near Washington, D.C.”, authorities explain.

Fuente: Shutterstock

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What happens if Veteran’s Day falls on a weekend

Although the date is commemorated every November 11, if it falls on a Saturday it is moved to Friday, and if it falls on a Sunday, it is moved to Monday.

What will be closed this federal holiday

Authorities warn that, during this day, both banks and nonessential government offices, as well as various private-sector businesses close their doors to the public.

Other holidays already scheduled for 2026

According to what has been established, the following will also take place:

• Thanksgiving: November 26
• Christmas: December 25

It is important to note that, by law, it is not mandatory to pay extra to those who work during holidays or public holidays, unless the contract states otherwise.

Different proofs of citizenship and identity are required, along with the corresponding documentation on family history. The agency clarifies that only original documents or copies certified by the agency that issued them will be accepted.

What documents does the SSA require to apply for a Social Security card?

It is important to check the documents that must be presented to apply for a Social Security card in order to avoid delays and misunderstandings when starting the process.

For citizens born in the United States

They must present documentation that proves identity, age, and citizenship:

• Citizenship: U.S. birth certificate or U.S. passport.
• Age: birth certificate. If none exists, SSA may accept religious records made before age five, hospital birth records, or a U.S. passport.
• Identity: U.S. driver’s license, state identification card, or U.S. passport.

If the applicant does not have the necessary documents and cannot obtain them within 10 days, SSA may consider a work, student, military, or health insurance card, that is not Medicare.

For citizens born outside the United States

They must also present documentation that proves identity, age, and citizenship. In the case of those born abroad:

• U.S. passport: proves citizenship and identity.
• Certificate of Naturalization (N-550 or N-570): proves the acquisition of citizenship through naturalization.
• Certificate of Citizenship (N-560 or N-561): allows U.S. citizenship to be demonstrated.
• Certificate of Report of Birth (DS-1350): document proving a birth abroad.
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad (FS-240): proves the U.S. citizenship of a person born outside the country when applicable.

The SSA requires at least two different documents, although one of them may be used to prove more than one requirement.

For noncitizens

Foreign nationals who do not have U.S. citizenship must prove their immigration status. In general terms, SSA allows an SSN to be requested by those who have work authorization from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

Among the documents that can be presented:

• Form I-551: permanent resident card or corresponding immigrant visa, accompanied by the valid foreign passport when required.
• Form I-766: employment authorization document (EAD), known as a work permit.
• Form I-94: record of entry and exit from the United States, or admission stamp in the valid foreign passport.
• Form I-20: additionally required for certain foreign students with F-1 or M-1 visas.
• Form DS-2019: additionally required for certain exchange visitors with J-1 or J-2 visas.

In some cases, foreign students and workers must present additional documentation proving their work authorization.

What can a Social Security number be requested for and who might need one?

The SSN is a personal identifier used to record labor income, manage certain tax obligations, and handle federal benefits.

Among its main benefits are:

• Work legally: allows employers to report wages and the corresponding contributions for each worker.
• File taxes: it is used to identify taxpayers with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
• Apply for Social Security benefits: allows the identification of people who meet the requirements to access retirement, disability, or survivor benefits.
• Access certain government services: some federal, state, or local benefits require an SSN.
• Carry out financial procedures: it can be used to verify identity and check credit history.

It may be needed by U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and certain foreign nationals with work authorization. Additionally, it may also be requested for minors when they need to be identified for tax procedures.

The property covers about 37 hectares in Valley Center, northeast of San Diego, and has approximately 1,200 avocado trees, a residence of more than 550 square meters, a pool, and gardens. During its transformation, it also incorporated solar panels and charging stations for electric vehicles.

Bullock had listed the ranch for sale in September 2022 for $6 million, but the deal was closed for a lower amount. The transaction was recorded in November of that year and marked the end of the actress’s time as owner of the property.

How did Sandra Bullock transform the ranch into an organic avocado farm?

Sandra Bullock bought a 91-acre rural property in 2007, equivalent to about 37 hectares, in Valley Center, California, about 64 kilometers northeast of San Diego. When she acquired the land, there were already commercial avocado and citrus crops, which the actress converted to organic production as part of a ranch renovation project.

According to Mansion Global, which reported a statement from real estate agent Alan Long, Bullock also promoted a landscaping plan that included adding olive trees, expanding the existing orchard, and creating paths leading to a pond intended for water conservation and irrigation. The intervention sought to turn the property into a space for rest for families and friends, in addition to maintaining its agricultural activity.

What was the 37-hectare property Bullock had in California like?

When Bullock bought the ranch in 2022, it had approximately 1,200 organic avocado trees and a main ranch-style residence, built in adobe and laid out on a single floor. The house had a surface area of 5,938 square feet, about 552 square meters, four bedrooms and six bathrooms, as well as fireplaces, security cameras, and a Crestron home automation system to control various functions of the house.

The property also included a second prefabricated house with three bedrooms and two bathrooms, a saltwater pool with a spa, and gardens with eucalyptus, palm trees, and olive trees. Among the additional facilities were ornamental fountains, solar panels, electric vehicle charging stations, a backup generator, and RV hookups.

The size of the land also offered possibilities for building additional homes, installing greenhouses, or developing a vineyard. According to the real estate description published by Manson Global, there was also space for equestrian facilities or an off-road vehicle track.

How much did Sandra Bullock pay for the ranch and how much did she sell it for in 2022?

Bullock acquired the property in 2007 for $2.725 million through a trust, according to the property records cited by Mansion Global. In September 2022, the actress put the ranch up for sale for $6 million and the property entered the deal stage in just three weeks.

The deal closed in early November of that year for US$5.6 million, according to the transaction records. The buyer used a limited liability company to complete the purchase, while real estate agents Alan Long, of Avenue 8; Melissa Russell, of Willis Allen Real Estate; and Kay O´Hara, of HomeSmart Realty West, were in charge of the sale.

The final price was $400,000 below the original listing value; compared with the $2.725 million she had paid for the property in 2007, the sale price was roughly double. However, that difference does not amount to a net gain, since it does not take into account maintenance costs, taxes, or expenses associated with the real estate transaction.