U.S. District Judge Beryl A. Howell of the District Court for the District of Columbia handed down the sentence after Oseguera pleaded guilty last July to conspiring to traffic drugs on behalf of the Milenio Cartel and the Jalisco New Generation Cartel over two decades.

Howell reduced the 30-year sentence sought by prosecutors, citing the defendant’s age, 68, and his chronic medical conditions, including cardiovascular problems and an immune system disorder that causes “confusion,” according to the defense.

The drug trafficker’s attorney also argued that the conditions of Oseguera’s confinement in isolation were contributing to his “mental and physical decline.”

The judge also noted that the defendant had helped bring cocaine and methamphetamine into the United States and had been involved in criminal organizations. In her view, these offenses had a “destabilizing effect” on the country.

Prosecutors had requested the 30-year sentence to ensure that “the defendant never has another opportunity to harm the United States.”

Before the sentence was read, Oseguera addressed the court in Spanish and offered a “public apology” for his “serious actions,” expressing regret for his “actions and the harm caused,” as EFE witnessed in the courtroom.

He also asked the court to ensure that, while he understood he had to “face the consequences,” the length of his sentence would allow him not to “die far away” from his family, one of his “greatest fears,” according to a letter he had prepared and read aloud.

Oseguera showed no visible reaction throughout the hearing to what he heard through an interpreter, as he does not speak English. He was wearing a green prison jumpsuit.

El Mencho, the founder and leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, died on Feb. 22, 2026, after being wounded during a Mexican Army military operation in Tapalpa, in the state of Jalisco.

His son, Rubén Oseguera González, known as El Menchito, was sentenced in March 2025 to life in prison plus 30 years in the United States for drug trafficking and firearms offenses. He is serving his sentence at ADX Florence, a federal supermax prison in Colorado.

SOURCE: EFE.

It also warns that if there have been major changes in a person’s physical appearance, such as surgery, injuries, or a significant weight loss or gain, and the person can no longer be recognized in their current passport photo, they must apply for a new one.

What are the seven requirements for a passport photo?

On its official website, the State Department lists the following photo requirements:

1. Lighting and shadows: The face must be evenly lit and show no shadows.
2. Size and position: The head and shoulders must be centered in the photo, and the person must be positioned several feet from the background. The printed image must measure 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm). The head must measure between 1 and 1 3/8 inches (25 to 35 mm), from the chin to the top.
3. Resolution and quality: The photo must be in color and high resolution and cannot be blurry, grainy, or pixelated. It may be printed on matte or glossy photo paper. It must not have red-eye, damage, or alterations from a digital scan.
4. Digital changes: the original photo must be submitted, with no edits, filters, or any kind of digital alteration.
5. Pose and expression: the person must face the camera, show their full face, and keep their head upright. The eyes must be fully visible, and exaggerated facial expressions should be avoided.
6. Clothing, hats, and glasses: Glasses, hats, and face masks must be removed, unless there are properly documented medical or religious reasons. In those cases, the supporting documentation must be provided and the face must remain fully visible. Uniforms, camouflage clothing, headsets, and hands-free devices are also not allowed. Jewelry and facial piercings are allowed as long as they do not cover the face.
7. Background: it must be white or off-white, plain, and free of shadows, textures, objects, or lines.

When can a passport application be rejected because of the photo?

The State Department may delay the application or reject it if the photo does not meet official requirements. Among the most common reasons are submitting a blurry, pixelated, dark photo or one with shadows, among other errors.

Where does the State Department recommend getting passport photos taken?

The State Department recommends three options for getting a valid photo for a U.S. passport: go to an authorized acceptance facility that offers photo service, use a commercial photo studio for documents, or ask a family member or friend to take the picture.

The agency clarifies that authorized facilities and photo service providers may charge different fees. That’s why, before submitting the application, it’s important to make sure the image meets the dimensions and conditions required by U.S. authorities.

What applications require a new passport photo?

The photo is required both when applying for a U.S. passport for the first time and when renewing one.

In both cases, the image must meet State Department requirements and must have been taken within the past six months.

According to his parents, they decided not to go to a health center right away because they found no bites, scratches or visible injuries on the boy’s face. They also said the animal was not behaving aggressively, so they did not realize the risk that contact posed.

How the illness progressed to a fatal outcome

Just under three weeks after the incident, the boy began vomiting repeatedly, lost sensation in his face and felt tingling. As the hours passed, his condition quickly worsened and prompted his emergency transfer to a hospital.

While waiting for medical care, other symptoms appeared, including a high fever, trouble swallowing, confusion and hallucinations. Once they learned about the contact with the bat, doctors began intensive rabies treatment.

However, the infection had already reached the central nervous system and, despite more than two weeks of efforts by the medical team, the boy died.

Why specialists insist on getting checked immediately

Doctors explained that bites from these animals can go completely unnoticed because their teeth are very small and do not always leave visible marks on the skin. For that reason, they recommend seeking medical attention after any direct physical contact, even when there are no apparent wounds.

Although human rabies is extremely rare in Canada (where only 28 cases have been recorded since 1924 and this was the first locally acquired case in Ontario since 1967), specialists note that once clinical symptoms appear, the disease is almost always fatal.

After the tragedy, the family decided to make what happened public to raise awareness about the importance of receiving post-exposure prophylaxis immediately after any contact with a bat.

During the drills, personnel tested their weapons systems against fixed ground targets and aerial targets in a series of maneuvers aimed at improving military readiness.

The activities were part of a training exercise by the argentinian Marine Infantry Amphibious Brigade. The training was also tied to preparations for the UNITAS 2027 Multinational Exercise, a military cooperation effort involving forces from different countries.

What the live-fire tests with the 40 mm Bofors guns were like

The exercise included two types of drills: on one hand, the Base Defense Battery carried out simultaneous firing with four Bofors 40/70 mm guns against fixed ground targets. The maneuver allowed crews to work on the coordinated use of these artillery pieces.

On the other hand, the training included specific air defense drills. For this, parachute-suspended targets were used after being dropped from a Sea King helicopter belonging to the Second Naval Helicopter Squadron.

The exercise tested the accuracy of the shots and the coordination needed to use the defense systems.

According to the Argentine Navy, the exercise also focused on the organization of the batteries, fire control and carrying out the various procedures involved in the operations.

Which units took part in the Argentine Navy operation

The deployment required the involvement of different components of the Marine Infantry Amphibious Brigade. The activity received support from the No. 1 Field Artillery Battalion, the Command and Logistics Support Battalion, the No. 1 Communications Battalion and the No. 2 Marine Infantry Battalion.

Also taking part were the Amphibious Engineers Company, the Barracks Services Group, the Weapons Workshop, the Baterías Marine Infantry Base, the Second Naval Helicopter Squadron and the Amphibious Commandos Group.

Coordination among the different components is important in operations that require integrating weapons systems, communications and specialized personnel.

UNITAS 2027: Why the Argentine Navy is training its personnel

One of the goals behind this exercise is preparation for the UNITAS 2027 Multinational Exercise. These types of events allow the participating forces to train common procedures and test their ability to act in a coordinated way in naval and amphibious operations.

In that context, the training aims to ensure crews can operate their weapons systems and respond in a coordinated way to different training scenarios.

In this way, the exercise made it possible to put the Bofors 40/70 mm guns through their paces, while also reinforcing the training of the personnel who make up the Argentine Navy’s air defense setup.

Space Force Gen. Michael Guetlein, who runs the program, outlined the plan Sept. 17 at the Ohio Space Forum in Cleveland. He said the Pentagon will put much of what it already owns into the field to “deter a coercive decapitation or rogue nation attack against the homeland.”

Guetlein calls this first stage Epic 1. A second stage, Epic 2, is set for 2035 and would add technology that isn’t ready yet, such as directed-energy weapons, quantum systems and new sensors and communications.

A program spokesperson declined to give more detail, citing operational security.

What is a ‘decapitation’ strike, and why does Golden Dome start there?

A decapitation strike is a surprise attack on a country’s top decision-makers. The goal is to kill them or cut them off before they can order a response, which leaves the rest of the military without direction.

Defending against that scenario is a much smaller job than the one Trump laid out in his January 2025 executive order. The order called for protection against every kind of missile attack, from major powers such as China and Russia as well as from rogue states such as North Korea.

Guetlein told senators in April that the fastest way to build a credible defense is to upgrade and connect systems the military already runs. He also said that firing multimillion-dollar interceptors at cheaper incoming threats can’t work over the long term, which is why the cheaper technology is planned for later.

Is Golden Dome on track for 2028, and how much will it cost?

Guetlein estimates Golden Dome will cost about $185 billion through 2035. Congress had appropriated roughly $22.9 billion as of April. The Congressional Budget Office priced a system that fully meets Trump’s order at $1.2 trillion over 20 years.

Funding is the biggest risk to the timeline. Trump asked Congress for $18 billion more for Golden Dome in fiscal 2027 through a party-line budget bill.

Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, told The Washington Times on Wednesday that Golden Dome may not be adequately funded. He pointed to a roughly $350 billion gap in defense funding for fiscal 2027.

A Nov. 4 report from the Congressional Research Service noted that lawmakers could use defense legislation to decide how far the project goes. The report also asked how Russia and China might respond and what the shield could mean for arms control.

What ESTA is

ESTA stands for Electronic System for Travel Authorization. It is not a visa or a traditional form: it is an electronic authorization requested online that determines whether a person qualifies to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program, or VWP. It replaces the visa application process, but only for those who qualify.

Who it is for

Only citizens of countries in the Visa Waiver Program can use ESTA, and there are 42 today. They are:

• Andorra
• Australia
• Austria
• Belgium
• Brunei
• Chile
• Croatia
• Czech Republic
• Denmark
• Estonia
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Greece
• Hungary
• Iceland
• Ireland
• Israel
• Italy
• Japan
• Republic of Korea
• Latvia
• Liechtenstein
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• Malta
• Monaco
• Netherlands (citizens of Curacao, Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, Saba and Sint Maarten cannot travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program if they apply for admission with passports from these countries)
• New Zealand
• Norway
• Poland
• Portugal
• Qatar
• San Marino
• Singapore
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland
• Taiwan (this refers only to people who have unrestricted permanent residence rights in Taiwan and hold an electronic passport with a personal identification number)
• United Kingdom (British citizens who have unrestricted permanent residence rights in the United Kingdom: England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man)

What it allows and what it does not

The ESTA allows stays of up to 90 days per trip for tourism, business or transit to another country. It does not allow you to work for a U.S. employer or receive a salary from a source in the U.S. It also does not allow formal academic study, and the stay cannot be extended or changed to another immigration status once in the country.

The authorization allows travelers to board a trip and present themselves at a port of entry, but the final decision on admission is made by the officer of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) upon arrival. In other words, it is a travel authorization, not a guaranteed entry.

Requirements to apply

To apply for ESTA, generally speaking, you need:

• To be a citizen or national of one of the 42 countries in the Visa Waiver Program.
• To have a valid electronic passport (chip-enabled, machine-readable) that remains valid throughout the stay.
• To travel for tourism, business, or transit for a maximum of 90 days.
• To complete the online application by answering the eligibility questions (criminal history, immigration history, and travel history, among others).
• To have a valid email address, a payment method, and contact details in the U.S.
• To submit one application per traveler, including infants.

When Ledger signed his will in April 2003, he was 24 years old, and he had not yet met actress Michelle Williams. His daughter, Matilda Ledger, would not be born for another two years.

But that document was never updated and left everything to his parents, Kim Ledger and Sally Bell, and his three sisters, Kate, Olivia, and Ashleigh.

Ledger and Williams met while filming Brokeback Mountain, and Matilda was born in New York on October 28, 2005. The couple separated in 2007.

The fortune Ledger left when he died

When Ledger signed the will, it listed only about $118,000 in assets and cash. But his career took off in the following years, with an Oscar nomination for Brokeback Mountain and his role as the Joker in The Dark Knight.

When he died, at 28, his estate was estimated at more than $16.3 million.

The family’s final decision involving Matilda and Ledger’s will

Because the will left everything to his parents and sisters, many expected a legal battle. There was speculation that Williams would go to court to claim a share of the fortune for Matilda, but that fight never happened.

“Our family has gifted everything to Matilda,” the actor’s father, Kim Ledger, said in 2008. “There was never any question about the fact that Heath’s estate would go to Matilda. Never a question.”

Ledger’s family quickly made it clear that the money belonged to his daughter. By September 2008, the family had confirmed that Matilda would receive the estate. The executor, Adelaide accountant Mark Dyson, never revealed the exact amount she inherited.

The three stars that donated their paychecks to Matilda Ledger

Ledger was filming Terry Gillam’s The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus when he died. To finish the movie, Johny Deep, Jude Law, and Colin Farrell each played a version of his character, Tony.

The three actors reportedly donated their fees to Matilda. The film was finally released in 2009.

Those vehicles aren’t tanks or armored trucks. They’re the sedans, SUVs, vans and trucks that move people and supplies around bases every day, which the military calls nontactical vehicles.

The Army and the Defense Innovation Unit, a Pentagon office that adapts commercial technology for military use, launched the contest in May. It’s called ROADS, short for Robotic Operation for Autonomous Delivery and Sustainment.

Five teams made the cut for on-base testing at Fort Benning and at Fort Hood, Texas, according to the innovation unit. Tests are scheduled to run through the end of the year.

Why does the Pentagon want robotaxis on US Army bases?

The Defense Innovation Unit says the fleet runs without modern tools for dispatching and coordinating vehicles. As a result, many vehicles sit idle, the military keeps more of them than it needs and the risk of crashes goes up.

There’s a staffing cost, too: soldiers often leave training to drive troops or haul supplies around post. Alex Miller, chief technology officer to the Army chief of staff, said in May that automating those runs would free soldiers for their core duties.

The model is the driverless ride service civilians already use in cities like Phoenix and Atlanta. Forterra and May Mobility, which entered as one of the selected teams, say soldiers would book rides through an app.

The idea isn’t entirely new to the military. Forterra says it has already run robotaxi service for soldiers at Womack Army Medical Center at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

Which companies are testing self-driving tech on Army bases, and what happens next?

The five teams are Applied Intuition, Bot Auto, Perrone Robotics, Forterra paired with May Mobility, and Overland AI paired with Gatik.

For the first few weeks, human drivers will operate the vehicles to map approved routes, Army officials said. Those routes leave out sensitive sites such as the airfield and ammunition supply points.

Each vehicle will carry a safety driver during testing before any switch to fully driverless operation, according to the Army. Forterra says the schedule includes a monthlong pilot at Fort Benning.

Teams that perform well could share in the prize money and qualify for follow-on production contracts. Those contracts would open the door to a wider rollout across military installations.

Staying current on tax obligations is key to avoiding debts that reach the allowed limit and could then lead to this kind of action.

“If you do not resolve your tax debt, we will recommend suspension of your New York State driver’s license, and we may take other collection actions against you,” the authorities say.

They will seek to suspend the driver’s licenses of people with debts over this amount

Authorities specify that when a person has more than $10,000 in overdue tax debt, the Department of Taxation is legally authorized to recommend suspending the driver’s license in New York.

It is important to note that before this decision is made, a Notice of Proposed Driving Suspension will be sent, giving the delinquent taxpayer 60 days to resolve the tax debt.

How the license suspension process works

If the notice is not answered on time and properly, authorities will contact the New York Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to recommend suspending the driver’s license.

“The DMV will send you a Suspension or Revocation Order 15 days before the date your license is suspended,” it says.

The taxpayer then has until the deadline listed in the notice to pay off the debt, or the driver’s license will be suspended.

What options are there to resolve this problem

Those who receive a notice about a debt to be resolved can pay in full to avoid the measure or, if it has already been imposed, to have it lifted.

Setting up an installment payment agreement is another option. In these cases, if the terms of the agreement are met, suspension of the license will not be requested.

There are also exceptions to this measure, which can be found in this list.

It is an isometric movement: instead of doing repetitions, the person holds a position for a set period of time.

While staying in that position, it works different muscle groups, including the abs, lower back, glutes and shoulders.

Regular practice helps build core strength and stability, a group of muscles that plays a key role in balance and body control.

It also helps improve posture and strengthen the midsection. Still, one of the most common questions is how long you should hold the position to get good results.

How long you should hold a plank, depending on your training level

Although many people think that lasting several minutes in a plank position is a sign of better fitness, duration is not the only factor that matters. Proper form is essential to getting the most out of the exercise.

Throughout the exercise, the body should stay aligned, with the abdomen engaged and the back in a stable position.

It is also important to avoid letting the hips drop or rise too much and to keep breathing steadily.

If fatigue makes it impossible to maintain proper form, it is best to stop the exercise and rest before trying again.

The time can vary depending on each person’s experience and fitness level. For beginners, sets of 15 to 30 seconds are recommended, with the goal of learning the technique and getting the body used to the effort.

As strength and control improve, the intervals can increase. At an intermediate level, people can hold the position for 30 to 45 seconds, while those who are more trained can usually hold it for 45 to 60 seconds.

When holding the position for a minute is no longer a challenge, there is not necessarily a need to make the exercise longer. One option is to add variations that increase the difficulty and allow you to work on stability from different positions.

Options include a front plank with side-to-side foot movements, a side plank with controlled arm movements and a reverse plank, which is done facing upward while supporting the body on the hands and heels.

On that occasion, he said “the only permanent solution to poverty is more jobs” and stressed the need to boost the supply of jobs to strengthen the country’s growth.

The Mexican businessman took part in a tribute organized by various associations and organizations of engineers and architects. The event was held on May 28 at the Palacio de Mineria, where he received an award from Rector Jose Narro Robles.

Why job creation matters to Carlos Slim

In his remarks, Slim said job creation had to be at the center of development efforts. “We need more and better job opportunities”, he said, noting that work not only provides income but also contributes to personal development.

The businessman also said that “work is an emotional need that, beyond giving us dignity, provides an incentive for effort, self-improvement and human development.”

From that perspective, he said job opportunities were essential to improving people’s living conditions and strengthening the economy.

What other measures did he consider essential for Mexico’s growth?

During the tribute, Slim said the country’s development required a mix of measures. In that speech, he especially highlighted:

• Quality education: he said teaching needed to be transformed to encourage reasoning, research and innovation, instead of focusing only on memorization.
• Digital education: he advocated using new technologies to expand access to knowledge and reduce the cost of high-quality education.
• Internet access: he said it was essential to ensure broadband for everyone and offer online courses, content and applications.
• Investment and infrastructure: he said Mexico needed physical infrastructure, public and private investment, as well as economic activity, to drive development.
• Youth employment: he stressed the importance of creating abundant job opportunities, especially for young people.

Slim also said training over the internet could help people prepare to find work. In that sense, he argued that broader training would make it possible to access better job opportunities.

At the end of his remarks, the businessman reiterated that education and job creation were two essential goals for the country.

His May 28, 2013 speech centered on the idea that economic growth, public education and job creation must advance together to promote Mexico’s development.

The decline took the stock to $166.19 at Thursday’s close, Nov. 12. The drop came amid a crisis that shook the company and ended with the resignation of Jensen Huang, its co-founder and CEO for 33 years, after allegations about his extramarital relationships surfaced.

In his place, the board named Colette Kress, who had been chief financial officer, as interim CEO. She will also remain in charge of finance while the company looks for a permanent successor.

Against that backdrop, investors are wondering what to do with their shares. In an interview with El Cronista, Gastón Lentini, a financial adviser and founder of Doctor de Tus Finanzas, analyzed which indicators to watch before making a decision.

What happened to Nvidia shares

The drop in Nvidia is not only about valuation. According to Lentini, part of the sell-off is tied to the uncertainty generated by Huang’s conduct and the doubts about the transparency of the information the company provides.

“Part of this correction has to do with the uncertainty created by the fact that the leader of the world’s biggest company lied to those closest to him,” the analyst said.

The adviser compared the situation with other trust crises that hit markets, such as Enron and Bernard Madoff, which ended in major frauds. The concern, he explained, is not just a executive’s private life, but the effect his actions can have on a company’s credibility.

“The answer is tied to the fact that, right now, we may not be able to trust that the company’s numbers are accurate,” he warned.

That factor adds to other risks the market is watching closely, such as possible U.S. restrictions on chip exports to China. In a company whose valuation depends heavily on the growth expectations for artificial intelligence, any sign that calls future revenue into question can affect its stock price.

Nvidia shares: Is it time to buy or sell?

Despite the size of the decline, Lentini believes Nvidia could be an investment opportunity for those with a long-term view. To back up his analysis, he recommends watching two indicators: P/E ratio and RSI.

The first relates a stock’s price to the company’s earnings and shows how much investors are willing to pay for each dollar of profit. According to the analyst, this indicator is at one of its lowest levels since 2019.

The second is the Relative Strength Index (RSI), a technical analysis tool that helps identify whether an asset is overbought or oversold. In this case, the indicator shows oversold levels, a signal that the company is cheap.

“I think the current drop represents an opportunity,” Lentini said. However, he added that that does not mean it is advisable to buy right away.

His recommendation is to wait for the company’s next financial results before taking a position. In a volatile environment with new news almost every day, the earnings report could provide key information to determine whether the business still has solid fundamentals.

What to do if you already own Nvidia shares

For those who already have Nvidia in their portfolios, the adviser recommends not selling in the middle of the pullback.

The argument is that a drop in the stock price does not necessarily mean a corresponding deterioration in the business. If the company keeps generating revenue and profit, current prices could be an opportunity for investors with a longer horizon.

“If the company’s business keeps working, we could be looking at prices that will be a bargain next year,” Lentini said.

In that sense, the analyst recalled that other major companies have also gone through episodes in which the personal conduct of their CEOs affected investor sentiment. He mentioned Jeff Bezos, founder of Amazon, and Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft, and said that, in the long run, business performance can end up mattering more than the scandals involving their executives.

Even so, holding onto a stock after a sharp decline should not be an automatic decision. Each investor’s financial situation, Nvidia’s weight in their portfolio and the time frame in which they will need access to that money are also important variables before deciding what to do.

What to expect from Nvidia’s next earnings report

Next Nov. 17 will be a key date for investors. That day, Nvidia will release its fiscal 2026 third-quarter results amid high market expectations.

Analysts’ consensus projects revenue of about $108.8 billion and earnings per share of $2.47. But beyond the numbers, investors will be looking for signs on the business trend, growth outlook and the possible impact of trade restrictions on international sales.

It will also be important to watch how the company responds to the trust crisis affecting its leadership. Any update on the investigations and possible regulatory measures could change market expectations.

As for valuations, some of the biggest investment banks still have price targets far above the current share price. Bank of America sees the stock at $350 a share, Citi at $315, while Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley set their price targets at $300.

Compared with Thursday’s close of $166.19, those forecasts imply upside of between 80% and 110%. However, those targets were set before the scandal reached its current scale, so they could change if new signs of risk emerge.

The adjustment is part of the agency’s annual inflation updates and will apply to tax years beginning in 2027. Although the increase is relatively modest, it gives eligible workers additional flexibility when deciding how much money to allocate to healthcare throughout the year.

IRS confirms a higher Health FSA contribution limit for 2027

The IRS announced that the maximum amount employees can voluntarily contribute to a Health FSA through salary reductions will rise to $3,500 in 2027.

That’s a $100 increase compared with the $3,400 limit established for 2026. The change means workers will be able to set aside a larger portion of their paychecks to cover qualified healthcare expenses without paying federal income and payroll taxes on those contributions, subject to applicable rules.

The agency also increased the maximum amount that employers may allow employees to carry over from one plan year to the next. For plans that offer this option, the limit will reach $700 in 2027, up from $680 in 2026.

However, this provision is not automatic. Employers decide whether their plans allow unused funds to carry over, so employees should check the specific rules of their workplace benefits program.

What is a Health FSA and how can workers use the money?

A Flexible Spending Account is a special account that allows employees to set aside part of their earnings to pay for certain out-of-pocket healthcare expenses.

One of its main advantages is its tax treatment. Contributions are generally deducted from an employee’s paycheck before federal income and Social Security and Medicare taxes are calculated. This can reduce taxable income and help workers save on eligible medical costs.

The money can be used for a variety of qualified expenses, including:

• Medical deductibles: amounts employees must pay before their health insurance begins covering certain services.
• Copayments and coinsurance: the fixed amounts or percentages patients pay for covered medical services.
• Prescription medications: eligible prescription drugs and certain other permitted medicines.
• Medical supplies and equipment: items such as bandages, crutches and blood sugar testing supplies.
• Dental expenses: eligible out-of-pocket dental treatments and services.

Health FSAs can generally cover eligible expenses for employees, their spouses and their dependents. However, the funds cannot be used to pay health insurance premiums.

Workers should review their employer’s FSA rules before contributing

Although the higher limit gives employees more room to save, there is an important rule to consider: Health FSA funds generally must be used within the plan year.

Depending on the employer’s plan, workers may have an additional grace period of up to two and a half months or the option to carry over an allowed amount into the following year. These alternatives are subject to plan rules, and employers are not required to offer either one.

Any money left unused after the applicable deadline may be forfeited. For that reason, employees should estimate their expected healthcare expenses before deciding how much to contribute.

The new rules took effect on February 16, 2026. They also extend the period used to calculate accumulated points, meaning some drivers could face administrative action based on violations committed over a longer period.

How does New York’s driver violation point system work?

New York uses a point system to track traffic violations and identify drivers with repeated offenses. The DMV assigns a specific number of points to certain violations, and the total can lead to additional requirements or action against a driver’s license.

The agency considers violations committed within a 24-month period, up from 18 months. Drivers who accumulate 11 or more points during that period may be required to attend a formal hearing, where their license could be suspended or revoked. Those who accumulate between 7 and 10 points may be required to attend a driver improvement clinic.

Which traffic violations now carry more points in New York?

The updated system increased the point values for several offenses. The current penalties include:

• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (DWI/DWAI): 11 points.
• Driving with a suspended or revoked license (aggravated unlicensed operation): 11 points.
• Passing a stopped school bus: 8 points.
• Speeding in a construction zone: 8 points, regardless of how far above the posted limit the driver was traveling.
• Driving a vehicle that exceeds height limits or striking a bridge or highway structure: 8 points.
• Leaving the scene of an accident involving personal injury without reporting it: 5 points.
• Failing to exercise due care: 5 points.
• Facilitating aggravated unlicensed operation: 5 points.
• Taking part in a speed contest or illegal race: 5 points.

These are among the violations specifically affected by the 2026 changes. Other offenses also carry points under the state’s existing rules.

How many points do other driving violations carry?

The state also assigns points to other common traffic offenses. Under the current schedule, the values include:

• Reckless driving: 5 points.
• Using a mobile phone or portable electronic device while driving: 5 points.
• Railroad crossing violations: 5 points.
• Following another vehicle too closely: 4 points.
• Speeding between 10 and 20 mph over the limit: 4 points.
• Speeding between 20 and 30 mph over the limit: 6 points.
• Speeding between 30 and 40 mph over the limit: 8 points.
• Speeding more than 40 mph over the limit: 11 points.
• Failing to yield the right of way: 3 points.
• Disobeying a traffic signal or stop sign: 3 points.
• Improper passing or changing lanes unsafely: 3 points.
• Leaving the scene of an accident involving property damage without reporting it: 3 points.
• Certain child seat belt or safety restraint violations: 3 points.

The piece belonged to a private collection, and the current owners were unaware of its true historical value. However, the discovery made a major impact on the art market and changes the foundations of Baroque painting, particularly that of the famous artist.

How Caravaggio’s lost painting was found

Art historian Maria Cristina Terzaghi located the original canvas in the back room of a Paris gallery. The work had only been known through four old copies preserved in different European museums.

Experts analyzed the quality of the chiaroscuro, the naturalism of the figure and the detailed reflections in the water in Boy with a Rosebush. The researchers thus confirmed the technical traits characteristic of the painter during his early years in Rome.

In this way, based on these features, the famous Caravaggio artwork that resurfaced in Paris changes everything we know about the Baroque painter after nearly 200 years, especially the style of his early period.

The importance of this painting for art history

The canvas dates to between 1596 and 1597 and portrays a pensive young man accompanied by flowers. In this way, the depiction redefines the concept of love and melancholy in the early Baroque period.

The composition is directly linked to the series on the senses that the artist developed in his youth. The piece thus provides a key insight into the Italian master’s artistic evolution in his view of love and the senses, according to specialists.

To address this problem, there is a DIY trick that calls for using vinegar to clean the rubber blades and remove some of the dirt stuck to them.

Its basis is tied to the chemical properties of acetic acid, one of the main components of this product.

What vinegar does on windshield wipers

White vinegar contains about 5% acetic acid, an organic compound that gives it its acidic properties and its ability to dissolve certain mineral deposits.

According to the American Chemical Society, this substance is effective at removing mineral buildup, such as the stains left by hard water on different surfaces.

On windshield wipers, it can help loosen some residue and water marks left on the blades. That is why many people use it in a spray bottle mixed with water and vinegar or with a cloth dampened with the mixture.

How to clean car wiper blades

For a basic cleaning, follow these steps:

• Lift the blades: position the wiper arms so you can reach the rubber without forcing them.
• Prepare the cleaner: use a soft cloth dampened with water and vinegar, or a spray bottle with the mixture, and spray the blades.
• Clean the surface: gently wipe the rubber edge to remove dust and built-up residue.
• Remove any remaining residue: use another clean cloth dampened with water to remove any product left behind.
• Check the blades: make sure they have no cracks, warping or hardened areas before using them again.

It is important not to leave cleaning products on the rubber or on the windshield, as they can cause stains or affect visibility.

What other methods do manufacturers recommend for caring for wiper blades?

Some automakers recommend other homemade solutions. For example, Volvo advises washing the wiper blades and windshield regularly with warm water and soap or car shampoo.

HELLA, meanwhile, recommends using water with detergent or all-purpose cleaners that do not contain solvents or alcohol, because certain substances can affect the rubber surface.

Another important point is to avoid applying petroleum jelly, oils or petroleum-based products to the blades. These products can leave residue on the glass and affect how the system works.

Gates linked that possibility to rising productivity and the need to rethink how much time people spend on the job.

Bill Gates explained why the workweek could be cut back

During the conversation with Trevor Noah, which took place in November 2023, Gates said work should not be seen as life’s only purpose and sketched out a scenario in which technology could take over a large share of production.

“If you zoom out, the purpose of life is not just to do jobs. So if you eventually get a society where you only have to work three days a week or something, that’s probably OK if the machines can make all the food and the stuff and we don’t have to work as hard.”

The businessman also said that, even with fewer working hours, demand for labor would still exist for certain activities.

“The demand for labor to do good things is still there if you match the skills to it, and then if you ever get beyond that, then, OK, you have a lot of leisure time and will have to figure out what to do with it.”

Gates’ idea was tied to a future in which technology makes it possible to boost productivity without necessarily keeping the same work schedules.

What Gates said about artificial intelligence and jobs

Gates also acknowledged that new technologies can displace workers. To explain that process, he pointed to the drop in the number of people working in agriculture compared with earlier generations.

In his view, the impact could be manageable if new technologies are adopted gradually and workers are supported in learning new skills.

“So if it proceeds at a reasonable pace, and the government helps those people who have to learn new things, then it’s all good.”

The businessman added that boosting productivity through software could be especially important in the face of population aging.

The debate over AI’s impact on jobs also took on greater importance in 2023, as different companies began adding artificial intelligence tools to their processes. In that context, Gates had defended the technology’s potential to improve productivity, health care and education.

In March of that year, he also called for rules governing the development of artificial intelligence, with the goal of ensuring its benefits outweighed the possible negative effects.

On its Oct. 21, 2026 flight from the Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California, pilot Mike Lippert reached Mach 1.4 and an altitude of 55,000 feet (16,764 meters), a historic step in the U.S. project’s development.

The X-59 took off, completed the planned maneuvers and landed about an hour later, after the technical team verified that its systems were working properly.

How fast did NASA’s X-59 fly?

The X-59 reached a top speed of Mach 1.53 during other flight tests carried out in September 2026, the equivalent of about 1,625 kilometers per hour. It also climbed above 56,000 feet, or about 17,068 meters. The figure marks progress from its planned cruise speed of Mach 1.4.

The speed record came during a week of intense activity, when the X-59 completed six flights between Sept. 22 and 25. It was the first time the team managed to carry out six tests in a single week.

What is NASA’s supersonic X-59 for?

The X-59’s main goal is to show that an aircraft can break the sound barrier without producing the characteristic boom of traditional supersonic planes.

The project is part of NASA’s Quesst mission, which aims to change how these flights are perceived from the ground. To do that, the plane has a particular aerodynamic design that allows it to spread out shock waves and reduce noise intensity.

The difference matters: When an aircraft exceeds the speed of sound, it creates pressure waves that can combine and produce a loud sonic boom. NASA wants to replace that boom with a much softer sound, similar to a light thud.

When will commercial supersonic flights begin?

There is still no confirmed date for the arrival of commercial aircraft based on this technology. The X-59 is an experimental aircraft and its current role is to validate that the design can effectively reduce supersonic noise.

The program still has to complete several evaluation stages, including acoustic validation, in which the sound the plane produces in flight will be studied.

NASA says the results will provide technical information to aircraft manufacturers and to the authorities responsible for setting regulations.

Within this system, there is also conditional permanent residence, which is valid for two years, instead of the 10 years that traditional permanent residence lasts. To keep this status, holders must complete a specific process, different from renewal, before the deadline expires.

Who is considered a Conditional Permanent Resident?

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) considers conditional permanent residents to be those who obtained their immigration status through marriage to a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident if they had been married for less than two years when they were admitted to the country on an immigrant visa.

This measure stems from the 1986 immigration marriage fraud amendments, which were intended to deter fraudulent marriages entered into for the purpose of obtaining permanent residence.

For this reason, once the required period has passed, holders must apply to have the conditions on their residence removed. During this process, USCIS determines whether the marriage was entered into in good faith and whether the applicant meets the eligibility requirements. If both conditions are met, the agency will remove the restrictions and grant unconditional permanent residence. Otherwise, the card will be invalidated and immigration status revoked.

What requirements must a conditional permanent resident meet?

According to the fact sheet on family-based conditional permanent residence, certain requirements must be met to keep immigration status:

• Prove the marriage was entered into in good faith: The agency must verify that the union was legitimate and not intended to secure immigration benefits.
• File Form I-751: The holder must request removal of the conditions on their residence within the 90 days before the card expires.
• Meet eligibility requirements: USCIS reviews the documents submitted to determine whether the conditions should be lifted.
• Report changes in marital status: If the marriage legally ends in divorce or annulment while the joint petition is pending, the agency must be notified. In certain cases, the petition can be amended to be filed individually.

When should Form I-751 be filed?

To apply to have the conditions on a permanent residence based on marriage removed, Form I-751 must be filed during the 90 days before the conditional resident card expires.

Once USCIS reviews the documents and verifies that the relevant requirements have been met, it may remove the conditions on the immigration status and issue a 10-year permanent resident card. From that point on, the holder may apply for renewal with Form I-90.

What can happen when someone loses permanent resident status?

When a person receives conditional permanent residence, they must apply to have the conditions removed within the established deadline to keep their immigration status.

If they do not complete this process and do not qualify for one of the exceptions provided, they can lose permanent residence and become subject to deportation proceedings in the United States.

The drop comes as users continue to have trouble accessing Outlook, Teams, Office 365 and Copilot, among other Microsoft tools. The outage, which began Thursday, has lasted more than 16 hours and is affecting both individual users and companies and agencies that rely on the company’s infrastructure.

What is happening with Microsoft services

Microsoft is keeping in place an alert over a “degradation of its services” and acknowledges that some users may still have trouble connecting to various Microsoft 365 and Outlook tools.

The problem is not limited to a single application. The outage also affects products aimed at businesses, consumers and governments, while some administrators may even have trouble accessing the center used to manage the outages themselves.

The company is working to restore normal operation of its platforms, although external outage-tracking tools continue to record connectivity problems. The length of the incident is one of the factors beginning to weigh on investor sentiment.

Why investors are concerned

The outage again puts under scrutiny the dependence of companies and public agencies on major tech providers, especially when a failure affects services used on a global scale at the same time.

The most memorable precedent is the chaos caused in July 2024 by a flawed update to CrowdStrike’s cybersecurity software, which knocked millions of Windows devices offline and disrupted banking operations, emergency systems and flights in several countries.

At the time, Microsoft estimated that about 8.5 million devices had been affected. This episode does not have a comparable scale so far, but it again highlights the risks tied to the concentration of digital services in a few companies.

Microsoft has also already logged Microsoft 365 outages in January 2026 and October 2025, according to Reuters. In October, it also suffered an incident in Azure, its cloud computing platform, which affected different productivity tools.

For now, the stock move is modest: Microsoft heads into the Wall Street open down 1.07% in premarket trading, on a day when investors will be watching closely to see how the outage develops and whether the company can fully restore its services.

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

Why mix turmeric with black pepper?

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

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

What benefits are attributed to it?

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

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

How can it be consumed?

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

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

Starting in 2027, applicants under 21 years old will have to complete a 30-hour driver education course or a shorter driver awareness program before they can obtain the permit.

What is Colorado’s new requirement for young drivers?

The new requirements are part of House Bill 24-1021, a law that updates Colorado’s driver education standards for people under 21. The policy expands mandatory training to age groups that previously did not have to complete an educational course before taking the written permit test.

Applicants between 18 and 20 will have two options:

• Complete a 30-hour driver education course.
• Or take a four-hour driver awareness program. The shorter program must be completed in person.

The new standards will affect people applying for a Colorado instruction permit on or after January 1, 2027. They will not apply to drivers who already have a learner’s permit before that date.

• Applicants aged 16 and 17: Previously, they did not have to complete a driver education course before obtaining a learner’s permit. Starting in 2027, they will have to complete 30 hours of training.
• Applicants aged 15 to 15 and a half: They already had to complete a 30-hour driver education course, and that requirement remains unchanged.
• Applicants aged 15 and a half to 16: They could previously choose between a 30-hour course and a four-hour driver awareness program. Starting in 2027, the shorter option will no longer be available.

Other requirements Colorado drivers have to meet

The new law also establishes additional training requirements for people under 21 who want to obtain a motorcycle instruction permit or endorsement. They will have to successfully complete a motorcycle safety training program approved by the Colorado State Patrol.

Other requirements for young drivers will remain in place. Permit holders under 18 must still complete at least 50 hours of supervised driving before becoming eligible for a driver’s license.

Additionally, those who obtain their licenses before turning 16 and a half must complete six hours of behind-the-wheel training with a professional instructor.

The measure does not apply to all beneficiaries but to those with certain outstanding tax obligations who meet a series of conditions set by the agency. Before applying the withholding, the IRS must send notices and provide a deadline for the taxpayer to resolve the situation.

However, there are exceptions for certain retirees with low incomes and beneficiaries of other assistance programs.

Under what tax status can the IRS withhold up to 15% of Social Security?

The IRS can withhold up to 15% of certain Social Security benefits when a person has past-due federal tax debts that have not been paid. This measure is part of the Federal Payment Levy Program (FPLP), a mechanism that allows the agency to collect unpaid taxes by withholding certain federal payments. According to the IRS, the program applies to Social Security retirement and survivors benefits, although it does not apply to all SSA payments.

The withholding does not mean that any retiree with a debt automatically loses part of their income. The agency must follow a notice-and-collection process, and the amount withheld can reach 15% of the monthly benefit or be limited to the exact amount of the debt if it is lower than that percentage.

What requirements must retirees meet to receive Notice CP91?

For the IRS to move forward with this measure, the taxpayer must have an outstanding federal tax debt and must have received previous notices without resolving the amount owed. When the agency identifies that it can apply a withholding on Social Security benefits, it sends Notice CP91, which serves as a final notice before garnishing those payments. In the document, it says it intends to withhold up to 15% of the benefits to recover unpaid taxes.

The notice also sets a 30-day deadline from the date it is issued for the beneficiary to contact the IRS and reach an agreement to pay the debt before the monthly deductions begin. If there is no response and the situation is not resolved within that period, the agency can move ahead with the withholding.

Which retirees are exempt from the deduction and how they can avoid withholding

The IRS has exceptions for certain Social Security beneficiaries who are facing financial hardship. One is the Low Income Filter (LIF), a filter that excludes certain delinquent taxpayers from the automatic withholding program if their estimated total income falls below 250% of the federal poverty guidelines set by the Department of Health and Human Services.

Also excluded are payments from Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which should not be confused with traditional Social Security retirement benefits. In this regard, the agency has stopped systematically applying this mechanism to Social Security disability benefits since October 2015.

Available options include paying the outstanding balance, requesting an installment payment plan, or asking for a temporary delay in collection if they are facing financial hardship. The IRS also allows taxpayers who meet the program requirements to submit an offer in compromise. The request must be handled directly with the agency; the SSA cannot cancel the garnishment or resolve the tax debt.

Section 78B-5-202 of the Utah Code sets how long a court judgment can be enforced, when it can be renewed, and what measures can be taken against the debtor parent’s real estate.

What are the legal deadlines for claiming overdue child support payments?

In Utah, child support debt can be claimed within two legal deadlines, as provided in Section 78B-5-202, which is part of Chapter 5: Judgments, Orders, and Appeals of Title 78B (Utah Judicial Code).

On the one hand, the law allows payment to be enforced up to four years after the child reaches adulthood. On the other, it also sets an eight-year period from the date a court enters a judgment establishing the exact amount of the accumulated debt.

The law says the longer period applies. In addition, judgments setting a specific debt amount can be renewed to extend their term.

Once the legal deadlines to claim overdue child support have passed, the ability to enforce the judgment is lost and, therefore, so is the ability to collect payment.

How long is a court judgment valid in Utah?

Utah law says court judgments are generally valid for eight years from the date they are entered by a court.

During that period, the person in whose favor the judgment was entered may seek to enforce it. However, the deadline can change if:

• The debt is paid.
• A court renews the judgment.
• Enforcement is suspended under the law.

What happens when a judgment is renewed?

Renewal extends the period during which a judgment can be enforced. For child support debt, Section 78B-5-202 expressly allows this when there is a judgment establishing a fixed amount of overdue payments.

Renewal has three main effects:

• It preserves the original date: the judgment keeps the date it was first entered as the reference point.
• It preserves collection priority: it does not lose its standing against other claims because it was renewed.
• It starts a new legal period: unless there is a different legal or contractual provision, the period to begin court action based on that judgment starts over.

Renewal does not create a new obligation; it keeps alive the ability to enforce the judgment.

Collection measures: what happens if the person who owes child support has property in their name?

Utah law allows a court judgment to create a lien on the real property of the person who has a debt recognized by a court.

That means the creditor can obtain a legal claim on the debtor’s property to secure collection of the debt.

For the lien to take effect, the judgment or an abstract of it must be recorded with the county recorder’s office in the relevant county.

But John Travolta has said the main role on Forrest Gump was offered to him first, and he said no. Other actors were also considered to play Forrest, including Bill Murray, Chevy Chase, and Sean Penn, according to Far Out Magazine.

The movie Travolta chose instead of Forrest Gump

By the early 1990s, Travolta needed a hit movie. After his success in the 1970s with Saturday Night Fever and Grease, he spent much of the 1980s in movies that failed with critics and audiences.

When Forrest Gump’s offer came, Travolta had another option on the table: a mid-budget film by a young director named Quentin Tarantino. The movie was Pulp Fiction, and the role was the iconic Vincent Vega.

Travolta’s decision was a hit and boosted his career. Pulp Fiction turned him into one of the most in-demand stars of the 1990s and led to movies such as Get Shorty and Face/Off.

The Oscar night twist

Both films were released in 1994, and both competed at the Academy Awards in March 1995. Travolta earned a Best Actor nomination for Pulp Fiction, his first in 17 years.

But the winner in his category was Tom Hanks for the role Travolta had turned down. Forrest Gump won six Oscars, including Best Picture, and earned about $678 million worldwide. Pulp Fiction won one award, for Best Original Screenplay.

Does Travolta regret turning down Forrest Gump?

Travolta has said he doesn’t regret his decision. When he was asked about it by MTV in 2007, he answered, “No, because if I didn’t do something Tom Hanks did, then I did something else that was equally interesting or fun... But I feel good about some I gave up because other careers were created.”

Forrest Gump wasn’t the only time their paths crossed. Travolta has said he also turned down the lead role in Splash (1984), which became one of Hanks’ first big hits. In a conversation with Kevin Hart, Travolta said the character had been written for him.

Hanks, meanwhile, reportedly accepted Forrest Gump about an hour and a half after reading the script.

In these cases, Form I-90 does not allow them to extend their residency or obtain a 10-year Green Card. Instead, foreigners must file another application with USCIS: Form I-751 if they obtained residency through marriage, or Form I-829 if they got it through a business investment.

The filing deadline is also important, since failing to meet the requirements could put the resident’s immigration status at risk.

Why immigrants with a two-year Green Card cannot renew it with Form I-90

Form I-90 is the process USCIS uses to renew or replace a Green Card. However, conditional permanent residents who have a card valid for two years cannot use it to renew their documents when expiration is approaching. In these cases, they must apply to remove the conditions on their residency through another immigration process.

This situation mainly affects two groups:

• Immigrants who obtained residency through marriage: those who married a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and, when they received residency, the marriage had been less than two years old.
• Immigrants who obtained residency through investment: those who received conditional status by creating a business and making an investment in the United States.

This restriction does not mean holders of these cards can never file Form I-90. USCIS allows it to replace a valid conditional card that was lost or damaged, as long as it has not expired and is not within 90 days of expiration. What they cannot do is use it to renew that conditional residency and obtain a 10-year card.

What form they must file with USCIS before renewing their permanent residency

Instead of Form I-90, conditional residents must file a petition to remove the conditions on their immigration status. The form depends on how they got the Green Card:

• Form I-751: for those who received conditional residency through marriage. In general, they must file it jointly with their U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse.
• Form I-829: for those who obtained conditional residency through a business investment and need to show they meet the requirements to have the conditions removed.

Both processes are intended to allow USCIS to review compliance with immigration requirements and, if it approves the petition, grant unconditional permanent residency, documented by a Green Card valid for 10 years.

When to file Form I-751 or I-829 to avoid losing your Green Card

Conditional residents must pay attention to the expiration date on their card, since they cannot wait until it expires to start the usual process. Both Form I-751 and Form I-829 must be filed, in joint or standard filings, during the 90 days immediately before the conditional residency expires.

If they do not file the relevant petition within the deadline, they may automatically lose their conditional permanent resident status and become subject to deportation proceedings in the United States.

Once USCIS receives and properly accepts the petition, it sends a receipt notice that extends the validity of the conditional residency while the case is pending. That notice, together with the expired Green Card, serves as proof of immigration status during the extension period indicated by the agency.

For this reason, preschool, elementary, and high school students will have -counting the weekends- nine straight days without classes to rest and enjoy one of the most anticipated holidays in the United States.

Confirmed by Education: LAUSD schools will close from Nov. 23 to 27

The Los Angeles Unified School District is the second-largest in the U.S., with more than 520,000 students enrolled.

The official calendar says all of these students will have fall break from Nov. 23 to 27, when public schools in the district suspend classes.

This break includes Thanksgiving, a federal holiday observed nationwide on Thursday, Nov. 26. As a tradition, families share a dinner centered on the typical turkey.

Other holidays listed in the LAUSD 2026-2027 calendar

The official calendar shared by LAUSD includes:

• Jan. 18, 2027: Martin Luther King Jr. Day
• Feb. 15, 2027: Presidents Day
• May 31, 2027: Memorial Day
• June 18, 2027: Juneteenth

Which schools are covered by the LAUSD calendar

According to authorities, the district covers much of the city of Los Angeles and another 25 cities and unincorporated areas, some in part and others entirely.

It specifies that the public schools in the following cities are part of LAUSD:

• Gardena
• Huntington Park
• Lomita
• Maywood
• San Fernando
• Vernon
• West Hollywood

Partially, schools in the following cities also fall under LAUSD:

• Bell
• Bell Gardens
• Beverly Hills
• Carson
• Commerce
• Cudahy
• Culver City
• Hawthorne
• Inglewood
• Long Beach
• Los Angeles
• Lynwood
• Montebello
• Monterey Park
• Rancho Palos Verdes
• Santa Clarita
• South Gate
• Torrance

Those who want to see the full school calendar and the different special dates can do so by checking this link.

The annual limit for employer-sponsored 401(k) plans will increase by $1,000, giving workers more room to save for retirement, while additional catch-up contributions will allow older employees to set aside even more.

The change is part of the federal agency’s annual cost-of-living adjustments. However, knowing the new maximum is only the first step: understanding how to adjust payroll contributions and take advantage of employer benefits can help workers make the most of the extra space.

The IRS confirms a $25,500 401(k) contribution limit for 2027

According to the IRS, the maximum amount employees can contribute to their 401(k), 403(b), governmental 457 plans and federal Thrift Savings Plan will rise to $25,500 in 2027, compared with $24,500 in 2026.

This represents an additional $1,000 in annual contribution capacity. The new limit applies starting January 1, 2027, giving workers more flexibility to direct part of their earnings toward long-term savings.

The adjustment does not mean employees will automatically receive an additional $1,000 in their accounts. Rather, it increases the amount they are allowed to contribute through their plans during the year.

The IRS also confirmed that the annual contribution limit for Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) will remain at $7,500 in 2027. This means the increase specifically affects workplace retirement plans and does not change the standard IRA contribution ceiling.

Workers aged 50 and older can save even more

The new limit also brings higher contribution opportunities for employees approaching retirement.

Under the IRS announcement, workers aged 50 and older (excluding those aged 60 to 63, who have a separate limit) who participate in most 401(k), 403(b), governmental 457 plans and the federal Thrift Savings Plan will be able to make an additional $8,500 in catch-up contributions in 2027.

When combined with the standard $25,500 limit, eligible participants can contribute up to $34,000 per year.

There is an additional provision for employees aged 60, 61, 62 or 63. Under the higher catch-up contribution limit established by the SECURE 2.0 Act, these workers will be allowed to contribute an extra $11,750 instead of the standard $8,500 catch-up amount.

That brings their potential annual contributions to $37,250, provided they qualify and their plans allow the applicable contributions.

These additional limits are particularly relevant for workers who want to increase their retirement savings during the final years of their careers.

How to make the most of the higher 401(k) limit

A higher contribution ceiling creates an opportunity, but workers need to decide how to incorporate it into their budgets. A few practical steps can help them take advantage of the adjustment without putting unnecessary pressure on their monthly finances.

1. Review your current contribution percentage

Check how much of your salary is currently going into your 401(k). If you want to reach the new $25,500 maximum, calculate how much more you would need to contribute throughout 2027.

2. Adjust your payroll deductions

Employees generally make 401(k) contributions through automatic paycheck deductions. Reviewing the contribution percentage with the plan administrator or employer can help ensure that the new amount is reflected in future paychecks.

3. Check your employer’s matching contributions

Some employers match a portion of the money employees contribute to their retirement plans. Reviewing the plan’s matching rules can help workers understand how much they need to contribute to receive the full available employer match.

4. Consider increasing contributions gradually

Workers who cannot afford to reach the maximum immediately may consider increasing their contribution percentage in smaller steps. This can make saving more manageable while gradually building retirement funds.

5. Review your retirement strategy

The new limit is also an opportunity to evaluate whether current contributions align with long-term retirement goals. Income, expenses, expected retirement age and other savings accounts can all influence how much an individual chooses to contribute.

Ultimately, the higher 401(k) limit gives workers more room to prepare for retirement. However, the maximum is an option, not a requirement: each employee can decide how much to contribute based on their financial circumstances and retirement plans.

The test ran Nov. 2-6 at the Ustka Training Area on Poland’s Baltic coast, according to an Army report published Nov. 9. It was led by the 5th Battalion, 4th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, part of U.S. Army Europe and Africa, under the name Operation Audacious Fury.

The FD-1 is made by Mountain Horse Solutions, a subsidiary of Global Ordnance. The company announced Oct. 12 that the Army had ordered more of the interceptors, but neither side has disclosed the number of units or the contract’s value.

The Army has not released results from the exercise. That includes how many FD-1s were used, how many targets were hit and what each interception cost.

Why doesn’t the US Army want to fire pricey missiles at cheap drones?

It comes down to math. An attack drone that costs a few thousand dollars can force a defender to fire an interceptor that costs millions. Repeat that across hundreds of drones, and the attacker wins on cost even when every drone is shot down.

Then-Army Secretary Dan Driscoll pointed to that imbalance in May. He noted that Patriot missiles cost millions of dollars each, while a Shahed attack drone, the type Russia has fired at Ukraine in large waves, costs about $4,000.

Brent Ingraham, an assistant secretary of the Army, made the same point later that month at a Pentagon briefing. He said the service needs to stop relying on Patriot missiles to take down inexpensive drones.

The battalion behind the Poland test is working from that same logic. Its commander, Lt. Col. John Verwiel, said in the Army’s account that the unit wants affordable options against mass drone attacks so it can save its most advanced munitions for the threats that need them.

How do the US Army’s drones that hunt other drones work?

The FD-1 is a first-person-view drone. The operator flies it through a live camera feed, as if sitting in the cockpit, and steers it straight into an enemy drone to physically take it out.

During the test, soldiers also launched the FD-1 from an SGT Stout, a Stryker armored vehicle the Army uses for short-range air defense. That pairing suggests the drones are meant to add a cheaper layer to existing air defenses, not replace them.

Much of the exercise focused on people rather than hardware. The unit set out to build the playbook and certification steps that can turn a soldier with no drone experience into a qualified pilot. Staff Sgt. Felix Aguilar said his soldiers, who enlisted to run air defense systems, are now certified and flying drones out over the Baltic Sea.

Verwiel wants to standardize both the training and the way troops engage targets, then roll the method out widely. The soldiers who ran the test are expected to become the instructors who teach it to other units across U.S. Army Europe and Africa.

A law signed by Governor Gavin Newsom in July 2026 expanded access to the state’s mobile driver’s license program, allowing more residents to add their credentials to a digital wallet.

However, the digital version does not replace the physical driver’s license. The California DMV requires participants to keep their physical cards with them, even if they have already downloaded the mobile version.

What changed with California’s new driver’s license law?

On July 13, 2026, Newsom signed Senate Bill 169 (SB 169), which increased the participation limit for California’s Mobile Driver License Pilot Program from 15% to 60% of the state’s licensed drivers.

The expansion makes the digital identification option available to millions more Californians. The program is voluntary and allows participants to access a digital version of their driver’s license or state identification card through their smartphones.

The mobile driver’s license is free, but participation remains subject to the program’s enrollment limit.

How can California drivers get a digital driver’s license?

Residents who want to join the program can download the CA DMV Wallet app from the Apple App Store or Google Play. They must then sign in to their MyDMV account or create one and follow the instructions to verify their identity.

The process requires users to scan their physical driver’s license or identification card. Once approved, they can access their mobile credentials through the DMV Wallet app or add them to Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, or Samsung Wallet.

The mobile version can be used at participating TSA airport security checkpoints, select retail locations for age verification, and certain online government services. However, not every agency, business, or law enforcement authority accepts digital identification.

To do so, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) uses Form I-90, a standard procedure that also allows the card to be replaced if it was stolen, lost, damaged, or contains incorrect information.

Who must file Form I-90 to renew a green card?

USCIS sets out different situations in which a lawful permanent resident must apply to replace their card. There is no need to reapply for permanent residence or start over in the process that granted it.

The cases covered by the agency include:

• Residents whose Green Card has expired or will expire within the next six months.
• People whose card was stolen, lost, destroyed, or damaged.
• Immigrants who received their card before turning 14 and have now reached that age, under USCIS rules.
• Residents who legally changed their name or other biographic information.
• People who received a card with incorrect information.
• Immigrants who never received the Green Card USCIS sent them.
• Residents who need to update their document because of changes in their residency status or because they have an older version that no longer proves their immigration status.

How to renew an expired Green Card with Form I-90

The standard process begins with filing Form I-90, called Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. Applicants can complete the process online or mail the printed paperwork.

USCIS explains that by filing online, immigrants can use a computer, phone, or tablet to complete the application. In addition, an online account allows them to:

• Pay the required fee.
• Check the status of the case.
• Receive notifications and updates.
• View personalized estimates for when the process will be completed.
• Respond to requests for evidence.
• Update contact information and address.

Those who prefer to file on paper can also do so. However, they must send the package to the appropriate USCIS address to avoid processing delays.

In many cases, however, the problem is not the rubber itself, but dirt buildup along the edge, and it can be fixed with something as simple, homemade and inexpensive as wiping it down with a cloth and alcohol or vinegar.

Why They Make Noise and Scratch the Glass

The rubber edge of a wiper blade is a part with a precise edge: It rests on the glass at an exact angle and sweeps away water evenly. With use, that edge picks up a film of dust, dirt from the road, insect remains, sap, soot and pollution, along with a layer of the rubber itself that oxidizes in the sun and ozone.

That grime breaks the even contact between the rubber and the glass. Instead of gliding smoothly, the blade repeatedly sticks and slips many times a second: That jerking is what you hear as noise or squeaking, and it leaves streaks of water and lines because the edge no longer makes even contact. In other words, many times the rubber is not worn out -- it is just dirty and hardened on the surface.

How to Clean Wiper Blades So They Stop Making Noise and Scratching the Glass

The key is to clean just the rubber edge. Isopropyl alcohol is a solvent: It dissolves grease, wax and the oily film from the road that water alone will not remove, lifts away the oxidized rubber layer and evaporates without leaving residue. Once the edge is clean and smooth, it glides again without skipping: The noise goes away and the streaks do too.

White vinegar is a gentler alternative: Its acidity (acetic acid) helps loosen dirt and mineral buildup stuck to the edge. It cleans well, though it is a good idea to dry it afterward so no moisture is left behind.

Step by Step: How to Clean Them

The process is quick and does not require tools:

• Lift the wiper arm away from the glass, taking care that it does not snap back against the windshield (the impact can chip the glass).
• Dampen a clean cloth or cotton ball with isopropyl alcohol or white vinegar.
• Run the cloth along the rubber edge, from one end to the other, pressing just lightly enough to clean the exact edge that touches the glass.
• Repeat until the cloth comes away clean: You will see how much black grime comes off.
• Do the same with the other blade and, if applicable, the rear one.
• Let it evaporate or dry carefully before lowering the arm back into place.

That provision is Section 202(t) of the law, known as the “no-payment rule for foreign nationals.” However, it is a suspension, not a permanent loss, and there are numerous exceptions that allow many people to keep collecting payments abroad.

What Section 202(t) says

Section 202(t) says that a foreign beneficiary, meaning a person who is a citizen of another country and not of the United States, cannot keep receiving Social Security benefits if they spend too much time outside the country.

The deadline is specific: six full, consecutive calendar months outside the United States. The rule applies both to the worker who earned the benefit and to dependent family members and survivors, as long as they are foreign nationals.

When Social Security payments are suspended

When a foreign beneficiary completes six full, consecutive calendar months outside the country, payments are suspended starting with the seventh month of absence. In other words, the payments do not stop as soon as the person leaves the United States, but only after that six-month period abroad.

The exceptions: many foreign nationals keep getting paid

The SSA itself has a long list of exceptions, so many foreign beneficiaries can keep collecting even while living outside the United States. Situations that usually allow payments to continue include:

• Being a citizen of a country that has a social security agreement (a totalization agreement) with the United States.
• Being a citizen of a country that pays benefits to U.S. citizens who live there.
• Having accumulated enough years of work under Social Security (usually the equivalent of 10 years of contributions) or a certain amount of time living in the country.
• Certain cases tied to U.S. military service.

Countries where payments cannot be collected

There is a separate case that applies even to U.S. citizens. Because of Treasury Department restrictions, Social Security cannot send payments to beneficiaries living in certain countries, such as Cuba and North Korea. In those cases, payments are held and can generally be collected if the person moves to a country where the SSA is allowed to pay.

The proposal would extend the waiting period immigrants must observe before filing their initial work permit application from 180 to 365 days. In addition, USCIS would have up to 180 more days to process the application, meaning the total wait could reach 545 days from the receipt of a complete asylum application.

The measure also sets new eligibility conditions that could exclude certain applicants and affect their chances of getting legal work while they wait for an answer on their immigration status.

Which immigrants could lose work authorization in the United States

The Department of Homeland Security proposal (DHS) targets foreign nationals with pending asylum applications who are seeking an initial work permit under category (c)(8). The plan establishes new eligibility conditions that could prevent certain applicants from receiving work authorization while they wait for a decision in their case.

In particular, DHS is considering these conditions to determine who would not be eligible for an initial work permit:

• Applicants with certain criminal records: those for whom there is reason to believe they may be subject to the criminal bars to asylum.
• Foreign nationals whose asylum applications are denied: those who receive a denial from an asylum officer or an immigration judge before 365 days have passed or before their work permit application is decided.
• People who miss the one-year deadline: those who file their asylum application more than one year after arriving in the United States, unless they can show they qualify for an exception.
• Immigrants who enter without inspection: those who enter or try to enter the country without going through immigration inspection, except if they state their intent to seek asylum or express fear of persecution or torture to an officer within 48 hours, show good cause, or qualify for another listed exception.

Why USCIS is proposing a wait of up to 545 days to grant work permits

The proposal would change the current timelines for asylum seekers to obtain work authorization. Instead of the 180-day waiting period under the current system, DHS proposes that foreign nationals wait 365 days from the receipt of a complete asylum application before filing the initial request for employment authorization on Form I-765.

That period would be followed by up to 180 additional days for USCIS to process and decide the work permit application, pushing the wait to as much as 545 days from the date the asylum application is received. The agency also proposes to suspend acceptance of new initial applications under category (c)(8) when the average processing time for affirmative asylum cases exceeds 180 days for three consecutive months. The pause would apply to both affirmative and defensive asylum applicants.

What will happen to immigrants who already have a work permit or have applied to renew it

The proposal includes different rules for people who already have work authorization and for those with a pending initial application. Immigrants with an unresolved asylum case and a valid work permit before any final rule takes effect could keep working until their card expires, unless the authorization is revoked or canceled for one of the reasons set out in the rules.

For now, this is a regulatory proposal published by DHS in the Federal Register on Feb. 23, 2026. The changes are therefore not yet in effect, and whether they are applied will depend on the publication of a final rule and its effective date.

The property stands out for its four-bedroom configuration and two full bathrooms, distributed between its two levels. Its design also incorporates large glass surfaces and outdoor areas, giving the structure a more open feel than traditional small homes.

Four bedrooms and two bathrooms across two floors

The main attraction of this two-story tiny house is how it distributes its living spaces. Rather than concentrating everything on a single level, the floor plan separates the bedrooms and common areas to provide greater flexibility.

The first floor includes one bedroom, a living room, a kitchen and a full bathroom. This arrangement creates an independent living area that can accommodate everyday activities without requiring residents to use the upper level.

A spiral staircase connects the two floors. Upstairs, the layout provides three additional bedrooms, another area for relaxing and a second full bathroom.

This configuration brings the total to four bedrooms and two bathrooms, making the property an option for households that need multiple sleeping areas while maintaining shared spaces.

Large windows, two patios and a customizable design

Another feature of the model is its emphasis on natural light. The ground-floor bedroom includes floor-to-ceiling windows, while the entrance features insulated glass doors.

The house also has two outdoor patios, one associated with each level. These spaces can be used for outdoor seating, a small dining area or a place to relax.

Its modular construction is another distinguishing feature. According to the product description reported by Travel + Leisure, buyers can work with the manufacturer to customize aspects of the structure according to their preferences.

The listed construction features include a stainless steel frame, galvanized steel support beams, a waterproof roof and reinforced, fire-resistant floorboards. These elements are intended to provide structural support and protection.

How much does Amazon’s two-story tiny house cost?

The home is listed for $42,000 on Amazon, placing it in the prefabricated housing category rather than the traditional real estate market.

However, the purchase price should not be confused with the total cost of establishing a home. Buyers will need to have land available for the structure, and should confirm directly with the seller what is included in the purchase, including delivery, installation and any additional requirements.

Northwood Space, the company she co-funded in 2022, raised $375 million in a new funding round that valued it at $2 billion, as Axios reported.

The funding round that defined Northwood Space as a $2 billion company

The round in which Northwood achieved the $2 billion mark was led by Andreessen Horowitz and DJF Growth, and investors such as In-Q-Tel also participated.

It is the company’s second big round this year. The first was in early 2026, when Northwood raised $100 million and won a contract worth nearly $50 million with the U.S. Space Force to help modernize its satellite control network.

Two years earlier, in 2024, Northwood Space had raised $6.3 million in its first funding round.

What does Bridgit Mendler’s company build?

Northwood does not build rockets but instead builds the ground stations and antennas that let satellites send data back to Earth.

The need for their products is growing fast. In 2020 there were about 3,500 operational satellites. Today there are more than 17,000, according to the American Enterprise Institute.

Traditional ground stations use large dishes that move mechanically and take months to build. Northwood’s antennas can track several satellites at once without moving parts and can be set up in hours.

The Northwood Space growth

The company, based in Torrance, California, has 140 employees and plans to hire 400 more. It is also building a 180,000-square-foot facility in El Segundo, California, designed to produce hundreds of antennas, according to Northwood.

Northwood already operates five ground sites. Mendler has explained that the company often places them at data centers to provide them with everything they need.

From Disney to Harvard and MIT

Before space business, Mendler was a familiar face on Disney Channel, with roles in Good Luck Charlie and Wizards of Waverly Place. She later left acting behind, studied at Harvard and MIT, and co-funded Northwood with her husband and two technical partners.

Her past still draws attention, but she is focused on a hard problem. “Space is just hard, and executing against missions is really technically complex,” she told Fortune in August.

Mendler sees a big opportunity in a market where the number of satellites keeps growing: “If you can accomplish how hard it is, it’s like there’s this pot of gold at the end of some rainbow,” she told Fortune.

However, meeting that deadline does not guarantee approval: applicants must also meet other requirements and pass the required screening.

What are the requirements to apply for U.S. citizenship after five years

USCIS sets out a series of conditions for lawful permanent residents seeking to become U.S. citizens:

• Be at least 18 years old when filing Form N-400.
• Have been a lawful permanent resident for at least five years.
• Have maintained continuous residence in the United States for the 5 years prior to applying.
• Have been physically present in the country for at least 30 months of that period.
• Have lived for at least three months in the state or district where the USCIS office handling the case has jurisdiction.
• Demonstrate good moral character during the five years before filing.
• Accept the principles of the U.S. Constitution.
• Be able to read, write, and speak basic English, unless an exemption applies.
• Pass the civics test unless an applicable exception applies.
• Take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States.

Who can apply for citizenship without waiting five years

Five years as a permanent resident is not the only path to naturalization. USCIS recognizes other categories that allow applicants to begin the process under specific conditions:

• Spouses of U.S. citizens may apply for naturalization after 3 years as permanent residents, provided they meet the requirements.
• Members of the armed forces: active-duty service members and certain veterans may be eligible for special pathways to citizenship.
• Children of U.S. citizens: they may acquire citizenship if they meet the conditions set by law, which depend on age, residence, and family status.

How to apply for citizenship with Form N-400

The naturalization process begins with filing Form N-400 with USCIS. The process includes:

• Confirming that naturalization requirements are met.
• Completing and filing Form N-400.
• Attending a biometrics appointment, if USCIS requests one.
• Appearing for the naturalization interview.
• Taking the English and civics tests when required.
• Receiving USCIS’s decision.
• Attending the ceremony and taking the Oath of Allegiance.

It is worth noting that applying does not mean automatic approval. USCIS reviews applicants’ records and the information submitted before making a decision.

What test do you have to pass to get U.S. citizenship

Most applicants must take the naturalization test during the interview. The exam has two parts:

• English: The test checks the ability to read, write, and speak the language.
• Civics: This section includes questions about U.S. history, government, and core principles.

There is one important point to keep in mind about the civics test:

• Those who filed Form N-400 before Oct. 20, 2025, must take the 2008 civics test. For this group, there is a list of 100 questions and answers, as well as practice tests.
• Those who filed on or after Oct. 20, 2025, must take the 2025 test. For them, there are 128 questions and answers, as well as an official study guide.

When that happens, the agency may send letters, emails, and even call by phone to request the necessary information.

“You must respond to the letter or email within 90 days so we can continue processing your application,” authorities say.

What to check in the letter or email sent by the State Department

The communication will include the application number, essential for those who need to call with any questions.

The body of the message will specify what additional information must be sent and may include an illustration for visual support.

Authorities say it will also include a date, and the 90 days to respond begin on the day shown in the communication. A QR code may sometimes appear among the elements, with instructions for review.

Until there is a response, the State Department may put the application on hold. Each letter or email will indicate whether the recipient can respond by email or must send physical documents.

Important information for everyone who receives these notices

Travel State will send updates to the email address each applicant provided in the application. If more information is needed, there will be two notices: the first indicating the issue and the second stating that the required information has been received.

This second update, which indicates that the application can move forward without issues, will say “Information Received, In Process Again”.

Common reasons the agency may contact you

As detailed, some of the common reasons are:

• Applying for a passport while still having a valid one
• There is a problem with the most recent passport
• Having unpaid child support or overdue federal taxes
• Submitting an unacceptable photo
• Needing to submit a new U.S. birth certificate
• When applying for a minor’s passport, the relevant adult did not appear in person
• The documents submitted with a minor’s application cannot prove that the person is actually their parent or legal guardian
• Form DS-82 was mailed in, but something is missing to move forward
• Another photo ID needs to be submitted
• The applicant changed their name and did not provide enough information
• Form DS-5513 or DS-5520 must be completed, and more proof of citizenship and identity must be submitted

Those who want to learn more about each of these situations can do so by clicking here.

To detect their movements, there is a low-cost trick that uses a common kitchen item. It involves placing small pieces of aluminum foil in places where rodents are suspected to travel.

How does the aluminum foil trick work to detect mice at home?

The method takes advantage of the fact that aluminum foil is light, easy to crumple and makes a distinct sound when stepped on or moved. For that reason, it can serve as a homemade indicator of rodent activity.

To try it, cut several pieces of aluminum foil and place them in areas where mice might hide or move around.

The recommended places are:

• Behind the refrigerator, stove and other appliances.
• Near baseboards and under furniture.
• Around pipes and wall openings.
• In pantry corners or near places where food is stored.

After leaving them overnight, check whether they have moved, show marks or are crumpled.

How effective is the aluminum foil trick for mice?

Aluminum foil is useful for detecting the presence of rodents, but it is not a removal method on its own.

Its main advantage is that it can help identify whether there is movement in certain areas of the home without spending money on special devices.

What other methods can be combined with it to get rid of mice?

Once possible routes have been identified, it is important to take steps to make the rodents leave the home or keep them from getting back in.

The prevention measures promoted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are:

• Seal entry points: check cracks and gaps around pipes, doors and windows. Mice can get in through openings as small as 6 millimeters. To close them, steel wool, sealant or other suitable metal materials can be used.
• Store food properly: use airtight glass, metal or heavy-duty plastic containers. It is also important to clean up crumbs and not leave pet food out overnight.
• Keep the home clean: remove trash, piled-up boxes and materials that could serve as shelter or help them build nests.
• Set traps: spring traps can help control mice. They should be placed near walls and in areas where signs of activity were found, always out of reach of children and pets.
• Consult a specialist: if rodent activity continues or signs appear in different rooms, it is best to turn to a professional pest control service.

What it’s for

Baking soda helps neutralize sneaker odor and keep the inside dry. In other words, it works on the odor already there and, by absorbing moisture, makes the problem less likely to come back. That’s why it’s used so often in everyday shoes and athletic shoes, which often stay damp after use.

Sneaker odor is not caused by sweat itself, which is almost odorless, but by the bacteria that live on the skin and in the shoe. Those bacteria feed on sweat and dead skin cells and, in the process, release strong-smelling compounds, especially acids such as isovaleric acid, which is responsible for the characteristic foot smell.

Those compounds are acidic, and baking soda is an alkaline substance, or base. When they come into contact, the baking soda neutralizes those acids through an acid-base neutralization reaction, so the odor is reduced instead of lingering.

On top of that, baking soda has a second effect: it is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture. And since bacteria need a moist environment to multiply, drying out the inside of the shoe takes away the ideal conditions for them to spread.

How to apply it properly

The process is simple, but it’s worth doing it properly:

• Make sure the sneakers are dry before you start; if they’re damp, let them air out first.
• Put a moderate amount of baking soda inside each sneaker — one or two teaspoons is enough — and spread it well across the sole.
• Let it sit for several hours, ideally overnight.
• The next day, shake the sneakers out well upside down or vacuum out the powder before wearing them.

A neater alternative is to put the baking soda inside a thin sock, a cloth pouch or a tied coffee filter: it does the same job of absorbing odor and moisture without leaving loose residue, and it can be reused for several days.

How often to do it

It can be repeated whenever needed: once or twice a week is usually enough for normal use, or after wearing sneakers for activities that leave them very sweaty. If the shoes are very damp, the best approach is to combine baking soda with letting them dry and air out well, even in the sun or in a well-ventilated place.

That is according to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. During the investigation, the cardholder may withhold the disputed amount, but must pay the correct charges on time.

How to submit the dispute in writing

The guide recommends contacting customer service or opening a dispute online and, in addition, sending a written notice to protect legal rights.

The statement includes the instructions and the correct address, which may be different from the one used for payments. The letter must include the name, address, account number, and a clear explanation of the error. The agency recommends keeping a copy.

What payments are put on hold during the investigation, and what must the bank do

While the claim is being reviewed, it is not required to pay the disputed charge or any related finance charges or other amounts. This protection does not extend to the rest of the statement.

If the amount still appears, it should be accompanied by a note stating that it does not have to be paid until the investigation is over.

While it investigates, the issuer cannot demand payment of the disputed charge or charge interest on that amount. Nor can it report a late payment to a credit reporting company if the cardholder paid the undisputed amounts on time.

What the card issuer must tell you

The guide sets a 30-day deadline to confirm receipt of the letter.

If the issuer concludes that all or part of the charge is valid, it must explain why, say how much is owed, and indicate when it must be paid to avoid finance charges or other additional fees.

According to the schedule, the next November payment will go to people born between the 11th and 20th of the month, who will receive their money on Wednesday, Nov. 18, barring a few exceptions.

How SSA schedules payments and when people born between the 11th and 20th get paid

The agency sets payment dates based on each beneficiary’s date of birth.

In a month without disruptions, such as holidays or dates that fall on a weekend, benefits for everyone born between the 1st and 10th are paid on the second Wednesday of the month, benefits for those born between the 11th and 20th are paid on the third Wednesday, and benefits for those born between the 21st and 31st are sent on the fourth Wednesday.

For people who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), the scheduled payment date is the first of the month.

What exceptions to the third Wednesday does SSA allow?

Although each benefit has its own payment date, people who receive SSI in addition to Social Security benefits will get the Social Security portion on the third day of the month.

The same payment date, the 3rd of the month, is assigned to people who have received benefits from the agency since before May 1997.

What happens if there is a weekend or holiday?

In those cases, the benefit is always moved up to the first available business day, even if that means issuing two payments in the same month.

That is what will happen, for example, in December for SSI recipients, since Jan. 1 is a holiday for New Year’s Day.

How long to wait before reporting a missing payment

Officials say to wait at least three additional mailing days before filing a claim. Once that period has passed, it is necessary to contact SSA.

2027 COLA: How much the increase will be for beneficiaries

The agency’s official statement published on Oct. 14 of this year said 2027 payments will include a 3.6% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), affecting both SSA beneficiaries and SSI recipients.

“You must create your my Social Security online account and sign up for paperless notifications before Nov. 18 to view your COLA notice online,” it says.

These personal notices will be available in the Message Center starting in late November.

Authorities may fine people for this behavior on the street, as well as those who leave a vehicle door permanently open on the traffic side after passengers have gotten in.

What Statute 316.2005 says about carelessly opening and closing car doors

According to the state law set out in Statute 316.2005, “No person shall open any door on a motor vehicle unless and until it is reasonably safe to do so,” which means that before making this move, it is essential to check that no other vehicle is coming and that the action will not disrupt traffic. Careless opening and closing of doors is grounds for a fine.

The code also says no vehicle door on the side of moving traffic may be left open longer than necessary for passengers to get in or out.

What is the fine for not being careful when opening and closing car doors?

Failing to comply with these provisions will result in a fine known as a “noncriminal traffic infraction,” which is punishable as a “nonmoving violation.”

These fines refer to offenses that are not moving violations but rather a failure to comply with another type of rule related to vehicle use.

Under Chapter 318 of the Florida Statutes, this type of penalty carries a $30 fine.

Maytag’s guide describes these reusable accessories, made from compressed wool fibers, as a way to reduce drying time and wrinkles.

What they do inside the drum

The balls are added with the damp laundry. Their movement helps keep fabrics apart and allows air to circulate between them.

They can also help reduce static electricity. Their benefits depend on their being able to move freely among the clothes.

How many balls to use by load size

Maytag says three is usually enough for most loads. In its instructions, it recommends three to four for small or medium loads, and five or six for large loads.

If the balls are not moving well, it recommends reducing the amount of laundry or adjusting the number of balls.

How to use and store them

Before starting the cycle, they should be distributed among the clothes. The cycle and temperature are chosen based on the care labels.

When the cycle ends, they should be separated from the clothes and stored in a dry place. They can also stay in the drum if they will be used in another load.

The manufacturer advises against adding essential oils to scent them, because they can increase the risk of fire.

The extended forecast, published Tuesday, Nov. 10, forecasts the arrival of severe weather starting Saturday, Nov. 14, and details which regions will be affected by these conditions.

What dangers is the National Weather Service warning about?

The main risk is the combination of heavy precipitation, snow in higher elevations and temperatures well below typical November readings.

The NWS also warned about the following conditions:

• Moderate to heavy rain in parts of Texas and Oklahoma.
• Snow in areas of the Great Lakes, West Virginia and western Maryland.
• The season’s first widespread frosts in parts of the South and the Tennessee and Ohio river valleys.
• Temperatures 5 to 15 degrees F below average in the Southeast, the Mid-Atlantic and the central Appalachians.

What is expected for Saturday, Nov. 14, and Sunday, Nov. 15?

On Saturday, Nov. 14, the low-pressure system will continue affecting the Northeast. Precipitation is expected in New England, and snow in higher elevations of the Great Lakes, West Virginia, and western Maryland. Moderate to heavy rain is also forecast in parts of Texas and Oklahoma.

On Sunday, Nov. 15, the rain will continue in those two states before moving into the Gulf Coast. Meanwhile, the Northwest will remain cold and windy.

How will the weather evolve through Wednesday, Nov. 18?

Between Monday, Nov. 16, and Tuesday, Nov. 17, temperatures are expected to gradually moderate in the eastern U.S. as the low-pressure system moves away. However, precipitation will continue in areas near the Great Lakes.

By Wednesday, Nov. 18, the NWS forecasts new rain in California and southwest Oregon, along with snow in mountain areas.

Heavy snow could also hit parts of the Sierra Nevada, the Klamath Mountains, the Wasatch Range and the central and southern Rocky Mountains.

The U.S. Department of Education is now moving borrowers toward other repayment options. The transition is not automatic for everyone: borrowers receive individual notices from their loan servicers, and the deadline to choose a new plan depends on when that notification arrives.

The change comes as student debt remains a major part of household finances. The Federal Reserve Bank of New York reported that outstanding student loan balances reached $1.66 trillion in the third quarter of 2026, after increasing by $5 billion from the previous quarter.

SAVE is over: What borrowers must do next

The Department of Education announced that more than 7.5 million borrowers enrolled in SAVE would need to leave the program and select another legal repayment plan. Federal Student Aid began sending guidance in March, while loan servicers started issuing individual transition notices on July 1, 2026.

According to the official guidance, borrowers have 90 days from the date of their servicer’s notice to choose another plan. The deadline is not the same for everyone because notifications are being sent in groups.

If a borrower does not make a selection within those 90 days, the servicer sends a final 30-day notice. Those who still do not act by the end of that additional period face automatic reassignment, which can result in higher monthly bills. The fallback option depends on the borrower’s loan history:

• Loans disbursed before July 1, 2026: Borrowers are generally returned to the repayment plan they were enrolled in prior to SAVE—often the Standard Repayment Plan—unless they actively select another eligible option.
• Loans disbursed on or after July 1, 2026: Borrowers who do not choose a plan are placed into the new Tiered Standard Plan once their loans enter repayment.

The monthly amount can change substantially depending on the plan, the outstanding balance and the borrower’s circumstances. Federal Student Aid recommends checking the notice from the loan servicer rather than assuming that every borrower has the same deadline or payment date.

Which repayment plans are available now?

The federal government introduced two new repayment options on July 1, 2026, as part of the changes established by the Working Families Tax Cuts Act. Their availability depends on the type of loan and when it was disbursed.

The two new options are:

• Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP): calculates monthly payments based on adjusted gross income. The payment generally ranges from 1% to 10% of income, depending on earnings, and is reduced by $50 per month for each dependent claimed on the federal tax return. The minimum payment is $10.
• Tiered Standard Repayment Plan: offers fixed repayment periods of 10, 15, 20 or 25 years, depending on the borrower’s outstanding loan balance. Higher balances can qualify for longer repayment periods and lower monthly payments.

Some borrowers with loans issued before July 1, 2026, may also qualify for other existing options, including Income-Based Repayment (IBR), Pay As You Earn (PAYE) or Income-Contingent Repayment (ICR), depending on their loan type and eligibility.

RAP also includes protections for borrowers who make full, on-time payments. The government can waive unpaid monthly interest and contribute up to $50 toward the principal when the borrower’s payment does not reduce it by at least that amount.

How to check the deadline and avoid an unexpected payment

Because notices are being rolled out in batches—and early recipients have already passed their initial 90-day window—borrowers enrolled in SAVE should immediately check their email, postal mail and online servicer portal for the notice titled “You Have 90 Days to Select a New Repayment Plan” (or a subsequent 30-day final warning).

The next steps are:

1. Check the loan servicer’s notice: the 90-day period begins on the date of that notification, not when Federal Student Aid sends a general email.
2. Review the loan information: log in to StudentAid.gov to confirm loan types, balances and disbursement dates.
3. Compare repayment options: use the federal Repayment Calculator to estimate monthly payments and understand how each plan affects the total amount paid.
4. Submit a new application: choose an eligible plan through StudentAid.gov before the deadline.

Borrowers who cannot afford their new monthly payment can contact their loan servicer to ask about available deferment or forbearance options. However, interest may continue to accrue during these periods, and they can affect progress toward loan forgiveness programs.

The proposal has not been approved yet. The agency opened a public comment period to receive feedback before deciding whether to revise the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, particularly FMVSS 108.

What changes is NHTSA proposing?

NHTSA is proposing to amend federal standard FMVSS 108, which sets safety requirements for lights, reflectors and other vehicle lighting equipment.

Among the main changes are:

• Placement of high and low beams: eliminate the requirement that low beams be positioned above high beams when headlamps are installed in a vertical arrangement. This would give manufacturers more freedom in designing their vehicles.
• Voltage testing: update evaluation requirements for sealed-beam headlamps and remove the obligation to use 12.8 volts as the reference. Replaceable and sealed headlamps would keep that parameter.
• Turn-signal and high-beam controls: adapt manual control requirements for vehicles that operate exclusively through automated systems.
• Dashboard indicators: limit certain turn-signal and high-beam warning-light requirements to vehicles with manual driving controls.
• Lights for autonomous vehicles: allow, on an optional basis, the addition of cyan identification lights to warn other road users that the automated driving system is operating.

The agency says these changes would modernize technical requirements without lowering road safety standards.

Which vehicles would be covered if this rule is approved?

FMVSS 108 covers several categories of vehicles operating in the United States:

• Passenger cars.
• Multipurpose vehicles.
• Trucks and pickups.
• Buses.
• Trailers.
• Motorcycles.

However, not all changes would apply the same way.

The easing of manual controls and the addition of cyan identification lights are specifically aimed at vehicles equipped with automated driving systems (ADS) that do not have a steering wheel or manual driving pedals.

On the other hand, removing the restrictions on headlamp vertical placement and updating voltage tests could benefit vehicle manufacturers across different categories covered by the standard.

How long do they have to finalize this rule?

NHTSA set Nov. 25, 2026, as the deadline for public comments on the proposal.

Once the comment period ends, the agency must review the submissions before deciding whether to move ahead with a final change to FMVSS 108.

The world’s largest cruise ship

The Star of the Seas is the second ship in Royal Caribbean’s Icon class, the series that set a new high-water mark for the size of cruise ships. Its “twin,” Icon of the Seas, which entered service in 2024, launched that category, and the Star, virtually identical in size, joined it to share the title of the world’s largest passenger ship. It is now listed as the largest cruise ship in service, ahead of any other vessel of this type in operation.

According to the ship’s technical specifications:

• It weighs about 250,800 gross tons (a measure of the ship’s internal volume).
• It is about 365 meters long, longer than three football fields lined up end to end.
• It has nearly 20 decks, 18 of them accessible to passengers.
• It can carry about 5,610 passengers in double occupancy and up to about 7,600 at full capacity.
• It is operated by a crew of about 2,350 people.

If passengers and crew were all living aboard at once, they would amount to a population comparable to an entire town, moving across the sea.

When it started sailing

The ship was built in Finland, at the Meyer Turku shipyard, and made its maiden voyage in August 2025. Since then it has been in active service and keeps setting sail regularly: it leaves Florida almost every week on seven-night Caribbean cruises, so it continues to go to sea on a regular basis. By now, it has been crossing the Caribbean season after season for more than a year.

These three ingredients can be combined to make a homemade paste and used as an alternative to traditional cleaning products, whether you need a quick fix or prefer to use more natural cleaning options.

Baking soda, salt and water: why experts recommend it

The institution recommends making homemade cleaners with alternative ingredients - such as baking soda, salt and water - to “reduce the potential for exposure to chemicals from household products and produce less hazardous household waste.”

In this sense, it explains that most households have easy access to the basic ingredients needed to make safe substitutes for traditional products.

What mixing baking soda, salt and water is used for

This combination is recommended for ovens that do not have a self-cleaning function. The advice is to make a paste with:

• 1 cup baking soda
• 1 cup salt
• 1 cup water

Baking soda is an alkaline substance that makes it easy to remove dirt, and its particles can also act as an abrasive. The salt crystals help scrub and loosen residue, while the water brings the ingredients together and forms a paste.

Experts recommend routinely cleaning the oven by using this homemade scrubbing mix instead of commercial products.

Another recommendation for cleaning the oven

As an alternative, it is explained that dry baking soda can also be sprinkled on and then scrubbed with a damp cloth.

“Do not allow baking soda to come into contact with wires or heating elements. Clean the racks and burners with a baking soda paste and a sponge or scrub pad that will not scratch stainless steel or chrome,” the warning says.

According to MyArmyBenefits, there are different retirement systems that set different percentages of the reference salary.

How long do you have to serve in the Army to get a pension

In general, Regular Army members must complete at least 20 years of active duty to qualify for retirement pay. The percentage increases with additional years of service and the system each service member falls under.

How to know which military retirement system applies to you

The DIEMS date helps identify the applicable retirement plan:

• Final Pay: for those who entered before Sept. 8, 1980.
• High-36: for those who entered between Sept. 8, 1980, and July 31, 1986, as well as certain later service members.
• CSB/REDUX: a voluntary option for certain members who entered on or after Aug. 1, 1986 and before 2003.
• BRS: Blended Retirement System, in effect for those who entered on or after Jan. 1, 2018.

How the pension is calculated under the Final Pay plan

This method uses the service member’s last base pay. After 20 years of service, the pension is 50%, with an increase of 2.5% for each additional year.

For example, a soldier who retires after 24 years receives 60% of final base pay:

• 20 years: 50%.
• Four additional years: 10%.
• Total: 60%.

If base pay were $5,000, the monthly pension would be about $3,000 before deductions.

The system also includes annual cost-of-living adjustments (COLA).

How much the High-36 plan pays

The High-36 system uses the average of the highest 36 months of base pay instead of the final salary. The formula starts at 50% after 20 years and adds another 2.5% for each additional year.

For example, with 24 years of service, the service member receives 60% of the average pay. If that average were $5,000, the estimated pension would be $3,000 per month.

What the REDUX system is and how much it pays

REDUX allowed a $30,000 bonus after 15 years of service, in exchange for committing to complete 20 years of service.

Unlike High-36, this system starts at 40% of average pay after 20 years and adds 3.5% for each additional year.

With 24 years of service, the percentage reaches 54%. If the average of the 36 highest-paid months were $5,000, the initial pension would be $2,700 per month.

The system includes a special adjustment upon turning 62, but it keeps reduced cost-of-living adjustments after that.

It is worth noting that no new CSB/REDUX agreements have been allowed since January 2018. Existing contracts remain in effect.

How BRS works

In effect since 2018, BRS combines a monthly pension with government contributions to a Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) account.

The formula is: Years of service × 2% × average of the 36 highest months of base pay.

For example:

• 20 years of service: 40%.
• 24 years of service: 48%.

It also includes automatic and matching government contributions to the TSP of up to 5% of base pay, a continuation bonus, and the option to receive 25% or 50% of certain future retirement payments in advance, with a temporary reduction in monthly pension.

The system has been installed on certain U.S. roads as part of measures to prevent incidents.

Why highway reflectors appear red when a driver is traveling the wrong way

The red reflectors some drivers see on the pavement of U.S. highways serve as a warning to motorists who mistakenly enter a road in the wrong direction. They are bidirectional reflective devices that change color depending on the angle from which they are viewed, since they can show white or yellow light to drivers going the correct way and red to those traveling the wrong way.

The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) installed this system to reduce crashes caused by drivers entering highways from exit ramps. The reflectors are positioned so that a vehicle’s headlights make the warning visible at night. According to a Caltrans report published in July 2020, during a pilot program in San Diego, the number of wrong-way drivers fell 44% after installation.

What a driver should do if they see red reflectors while driving at night

The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) warns in its official handbook that seeing roadway reflectors in red in your headlights means the driver is traveling the wrong way. If that happens, the driver should correct course and get out of that situation only when it is safe to do so. The agency also says signs may appear with the words Wrong Way and Do Not Enter.

If, instead, a driver spots another vehicle traveling the wrong way, Caltrans recommends pulling out of its path as soon as possible and safely, keeping the headlights on and calling 911 to report the situation. It also warns not to try to follow the vehicle traveling the wrong way.

The ship will incorporate advanced technology for launching and recovering aircraft, as well as modernized electrical and navigation systems.

The project already passed an important review stage in September 2026, when the U.S. Navy announced its preliminary acceptance and confirmed the ship was close to completing construction, with formal delivery planned for spring 2027.

What the 100,000-ton nuclear aircraft carrier the U.S. will add is like

The USS John F. Kennedy (CVN-79) will be the second aircraft carrier in the U.S. Navy’s Gerald R. Ford class. It is a nuclear-powered ship designed to function as a mobile air base, with the ability to deploy aircraft and support different military missions at sea.

According to official U.S. Navy information, its main features are:

• Displacement: 100,000 tons.
• Length: 333 meters.
• Propulsion: two nuclear reactors.
• Speed: more than 30 knots.
• Expected service life: about 50 years.

The design also incorporates new power-generation technologies, navigation, weapons handling and flight operations, aimed at improving performance compared with earlier-generation aircraft carriers.

Fuente: Shutterstock

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It has two nuclear reactors and can carry more than 75 aircraft: how its military capability works

The USS John F. Kennedy (CVN-79) will be able to carry 75 aircraft, including fighter jets, surveillance aircraft and helicopters. Its air wing could include models such as the F-35C Lightning II, F/A- 18E/F Super Hornet, EA-18G Growler, E-2D Advanced Hawkeye and MH-60 Seahawk, intended for strike, electronic warfare, reconnaissance and naval support missions.

To operate these aircraft, the ship will have an electromagnetic aircraft launch system (EMALS), which replaces traditional steam catapults and allows planes to be launched from the deck. In turn, two nuclear reactors will provide the power needed for propulsion and for the aircraft carrier’s electrical systems.

Why it is designed to operate for 50 years and when it will join the Navy

The aircraft carrier was designed for a 50-year service life, a feature of ships in the Nimitz and Gerald R. Ford classes. Its two nuclear reactors allow it to generate power for long periods without relying on conventional fuel to move. However, during that period it will require inspections, repairs and a midlife nuclear refueling.

As for its entry into service, the process reached an advanced stage on Sept. 29, 2026, when the U.S. Navy announced its preliminary acceptance after it completed acceptance trials in August. Formal delivery is scheduled for spring 2027, while evaluations of its systems continue, including the four weapons elevators that still need testing.

“To make sure you receive the correct payments, keep us informed about certain changes,” the agency says in an official post.

In this context, there are three types of events family beneficiaries must report: changes in personal information, in daily life and in employment status.

The three types of changes family beneficiaries must report

According to official information, everyone who receives benefits based on family benefits must report:

Changes in personal information

• Name
• Phone number
• Mailing address
• Direct deposit account

Changes in their situation

• Marital status
• Number of children living in the household
• Change in custody of a child receiving benefits
• Citizenship and immigration status
• School attendance (from kindergarten through the final year of high school)
• Incarceration

Changes in employment

These changes must be reported by each person receiving benefits who has not yet reached full retirement age

• Work status and self-employment
• Earnings above $24,480 in 2026, before taxes.

How to report these changes to avoid problems

The official guidance is that if anything changes related to any of the items listed above, call +1 800-772-1213.

In most time zones, phone hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Problems caused by not reporting changes to SSA on time

Life changes can affect a beneficiary’s eligibility and the amount of the benefit they are entitled to receive. If they are not reported correctly, payments may be missed or an overpayment may occur. In the latter case, SSA will require repayment of the excess money it paid out.

“Overpayments usually happen when we do not have the correct information about you. Always let us know about any changes in your situation,” SSA says.

What are the IRS deadlines in November 2026

These are the deadlines taxpayers should keep in mind for the second half of November:

• Nov. 12: Deposit payroll taxes for wages paid from Nov. 4 to Nov. 6, for employers subject to the semiweekly rule.
• Nov. 15: File Forms 8038, 8038-G or 8038-GC for bonds issued during the third quarter.
• Nov. 16: Deposit payroll taxes for wages paid from Nov. 7 to Nov. 10.
• Nov. 17: Deposit Social Security, Medicare and federal withholding taxes for October, for those using the monthly deposit rule.
• Nov. 18: Deposit payroll taxes for wages paid from Nov. 11 to Nov. 13.
• Nov. 20: Deposit payroll taxes for wages paid from Nov. 14 to Nov. 17.
• Nov. 25: Deposit payroll taxes for wages paid from Nov. 18 to Nov. 20.
• Nov. 30: File Form 730 and pay taxes on wagers accepted during October.
• Nov. 30: File Form 2290 and pay the tax on vehicles first used during October.

The calendar also includes obligations that were due on Nov. 2 and Nov. 10. Anyone with returns still outstanding should review their situation and the possible consequences of missing those deadlines.

What businesses must file Form 941 and pay taxes

Form 941 applies to employers who must report quarterly wages paid and certain taxes withheld from workers, including contributions to Social Security and Medicare.

The IRS set Nov. 2 as the general deadline for filing the return for the third quarter of 2026 (July, August and September). However, those who properly and on time deposited all applicable taxes had the option of filing the form through Nov. 10.

This form must be filed each quarter, even when there are no taxes to report, except in cases such as seasonal employers or final returns.

What taxes employers must pay by the end of November

Employers also need to pay attention to payroll tax deposits. Deadlines vary depending on when they paid workers and the deposit schedule that applies to them.

Those who use the semiweekly schedule must follow the IRS calendar. Meanwhile, employers subject to the monthly deposit rule have until Nov. 17 to deposit taxes withheld during October, including Social Security and Medicare taxes.

There was another obligation to consider: Workers had to report tips of US$20 or more received in October to their employers. The deadline was Nov. 10.

How tax payments to the IRS must be made

Taxpayers who use the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS) must schedule their transfers in advance. “Payments must be scheduled before 8 p.m. Eastern time at least one calendar day before the tax due date”, the IRS says.

The technique consists of adding half a cup of baking soda along with another half cup of apple cider vinegar. However, before trying it, it is important to understand how this chemical reaction works and what results can be expected.

What does adding half a cup of baking soda and half a cup of apple cider vinegar to the drain do?

The combination of baking soda and apple cider vinegar is used as a homemade method to loosen small debris, reduce bad odors and make drain cleaning easier.

When they come into contact, both ingredients produce an acid-base reaction that releases carbon dioxide and creates bubbles and foam.

This fizzing can help dislodge some of the dirt buildup on the walls of the drain. The method works as a maintenance and light-cleaning alternative, but it does not replace mechanical unclogging methods when there is a persistent blockage.

How should this method be used safely in the kitchen?

To unclog pipes with baking soda and apple cider vinegar, it is recommended to follow these steps:

1. Pour in boiling water: pour boiling water directly down the drain.
2. Add the baking soda: place half a cup of baking soda in the sink drain opening.
3. Add the vinegar: pour half a cup of apple cider vinegar over the baking soda and let the fizzing reaction take place.
4. Let the mixture sit: wait 15 to 30 minutes so the foam can help clear the clog.
5. Rinse the pipes: pour hot water down again to flush away the residue.

If the drain remains clogged, the procedure can be repeated several times before calling a plumber.

What precautions should be taken with these ingredients?

• Do not mix with bleach: vinegar combined with products that contain chlorine can release toxic gases.
• Do not combine with other drain cleaners: avoid mixing the solution with commercial chemical products.
• Do not seal the drain tightly: the reaction releases carbon dioxide and needs a way for the gas to escape.
• Avoid contact with eyes and skin: handle the ingredients carefully to prevent splashes.

What it means when a gas stove flame is blue

A blue flame is the expected look when a natural gas burner is operating. That color shows that the fuel is burning efficiently and that the gas-air mix is allowing proper combustion.

By contrast, a yellow flame may be a sign that the process is not working properly. The problem could be related to burner adjustment or the amount of air available for combustion.

The DOE confirms that flames on natural gas appliances should be blue and that yellow flames mean the fuel is burning inefficiently, so an adjustment may be needed.

Why a gas stove flame changes from blue to yellow

The color change may be linked to incomplete combustion or improper burner adjustment. When the appliance is not getting enough air, the gas may burn less efficiently.

Factors that can cause this include:

• Dirty burners: grease and buildup can clog the gas outlets.
• Lack of air: an improper gas-air mix can affect combustion.
• Adjustment problems: the burner may need to be tuned to restore normal operation.
• Misaligned components: burner parts out of position can alter the flame pattern.

What the DOE recommends if the flame is yellow

The DOE says to contact the appliance manufacturer or the local utility company. It also stresses the importance of having carbon monoxide detectors in the home and keeping gas appliances in proper condition.

Read was a World War II veteran and never held a job in finance. Even so, he developed an interest in the stock market, learned about companies by reading the newspaper and set aside part of his income to buy shares.

Over the years, that habit allowed him to build a multimillion-dollar estate.

Who Ronald Read was and how he came to work as a janitor and gas station attendant

Ronald Read was born in 1921 in Dummerston, Vermont, in a family with limited means. He was the first in his family to finish high school and, to get to class, he walked or hitchhiked about six kilometers. During World War II, he served in the U.S. Army and was stationed in North Africa, Italy and the Pacific.

After returning home, he worked for about 25 years at a Haviland’s gas station. Later, he found work as a maintenance man and janitor at a JCPenney store, where he stayed another 17 years until retiring in 1997.

How he learned to invest in stocks by reading the newspaper and built his fortune

Although he never worked in finance, Read developed a strong interest in the stock market because one of his habits was to read The Wall Street Journal every day, while setting aside part of his income to buy shares in companies he knew. His investments included companies such as AT&T, Bank of America, General Electric, CVS and John Deere.

His strategy was to hold stocks for long periods and reinvest the dividends he received, rather than chase quick gains. According to reports published after his death, his portfolio grew to include holdings in about 95 companies. In this way, through decades of saving and steady investing, he built a fortune that no one around him could have imagined.

How much money Read accumulated and what was discovered about his estate when he died

Read died on June 2, 2014, at 92, with a fortune of nearly $8 million that included shares in numerous companies and property, despite living simply, driving a used car and avoiding spending money on luxuries.

The surprise came when his will was opened, since Read had decided to leave $4.8 million to Brattleboro Memorial Hospital and another $1.2 million to the Brooks Memorial Library, two institutions in his community. The donations became historic contributions for both organizations and revealed that the man who had worked as a janitor and gas station attendant had built one of the largest private fortunes in his town.

According to a profile published by Fortune, she earns a six-figure annual salary in dollars. The publication did not specify her exact pay.

From a part-time job to running a store

She started at Walmart while she was still in high school. Over time, she took on different roles and assumed training and supervisory responsibilities.

In her account to Business Insider, she explained that she also volunteered to fill in for managers during their absences to gain experience before applying for the next job.

Her promotion to manager came when she was 21. Phoenix Business Journal also identifies her as Walmart’s youngest store manager in the United States and places the store she runs in Glendale.

Pulley currently earns a six-figure annual salary in dollars, according to Fortune.

What she learned along the way

Pulley said taking on leadership roles also meant learning how to delegate and adjust how she communicated with her team. She also had to find a balance between work responsibilities and her personal life.

After putting her college studies on hold, she enrolled in Live Better U, the program through which Walmart pays for certain degrees, with the goal of finishing her degree.

With the federal implementation of the Real ID Act in May 2025, the agency requires a Real ID driver’s license, a Real ID identification or any other document on the official list of approved forms of ID.

Anyone flying domestically from Los Angeles International Airport in California, John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York, George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Texas or any other airport in the country must meet these requirements.

What the TSA says about documents expired by 730 days for flying

The federal agency says that, for identification purposes, any official document on the list -available here- may be presented with up to two years past expiration, or 730 days.

This applies to everyone over 18, who are required to present acceptable identification to fly. For minors, travelers are advised to check with each airline on documents and requirements.

“The list of acceptable IDs may change without notice. TSA strongly recommends checking this list again before traveling, so you do not arrive at the airport without an acceptable form of ID,” authorities warn.

I don’t have a valid document to fly, neither current nor expired. What do I do?

If you cannot show any acceptable credential, since Feb. 1 of this year TSA has allowed travelers to pay a $45 fee for an alternative screening process called TSA ConfirmID to verify identity. Details of the process can be found by visiting this site.

“Using TSA ConfirmID is optional. If you choose not to use it and you do not have an acceptable document, you may not be allowed through security and could miss your flight,” it says.

The total represents a 1.2% increase ($21 billion) from the second quarter and a 4.8% jump ($79 billion) compared with the same period in 2025.

Broader household borrowing

The climb in auto debt mirrors a wider expansion in consumer credit. During the third quarter, total U.S. household debt rose by $334 billion to reach $19.1 trillion, with vehicle loans accounting for roughly 6% of that quarterly growth.

Financing activity also stayed brisk between July and September, with $208 billion in newly originated auto loans appearing on consumers’ credit reports—a figure that reflects new credit volume rather than net balance growth, as older loans are paid off.

Separate data from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) highlights the scale of monthly originations: in its April 2026 snapshot, lenders issued 2.3 million auto loans totaling $73.7 billion, a 0.7% dip in loan volume compared with April 2025.

Early-stage payment pressure

While balances continue to grow, repayment indicators show mixed signals:

• Early delinquencies: Transitions into early-stage delinquency (30 days past due) increased during the third quarter for both auto loans and mortgages, signaling fresh strain on household budgets.
• Serious delinquencies: The transition rate into severe delinquency—defined as 90 or more days past due—stood at 3.02%, virtually unchanged from the 2.99% recorded in the third quarter of 2025.

The figures suggest that while more borrowers are starting to fall behind on their monthly car payments, widespread defaults have yet to materialize.

Section 375(35)(c) of the state traffic law bars drivers from operating vehicles or trailers on public roads if their tires do not meet the conditions set by the proper authority.

What is the minimum tread depth tires must have

The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) manual says tires must keep at least 2/32 of an inch of tread depth, or about 1.6 millimeters. The requirement refers to the tread pattern, meaning the grooves on the tire surface.

The DMV explains that many car and light truck tires have wear indicators, also called wear bars, that appear across the grooves once the minimum depth is reached.

The manual also describes a check using a U.S. penny. Place the coin with Abraham Lincoln’s head facing down in the deepest-looking groove. If his entire head is visible, the DMV says the tire is too worn and must be replaced before driving.

What other damage prevents driving

Tread depth is not the only condition that must be checked. The DMV says it is also illegal to drive with tires that have:

• Cuts that reach the internal cords.
• Bulges or swellings.

The agency recommends checking the vehicle manual or asking a specialty shop about the proper pressure and checking it with a reliable gauge.

What penalty Section 375 sets out

Section 375(32)(a) sets, except for the exceptions provided in the section itself, a fine of up to US$150 per violation of its provisions other than those related to certain brakes. It also carries up to 30 days in jail, or both penalties.

During her morning press conference, Sheinbaum said no migrant caravan has reached the U.S. border since Trump returned to office and explained that Mexican authorities are trying to inform migrants about the difficulties of entering the neighboring country.

There are currently two migrant movements in southern Mexico, although one of them has already been broken up. The Mexican government says it is providing information and alternatives to the people in these caravans.

Attention: What Sheinbaum said about the migrant caravans

Sheinbaum said Mexican authorities are trying to persuade caravan members to consider other options because they would not be able to achieve their goal of entering the United States.

The president said Mexico provides information about conditions at the border and offers alternatives for those who want to return to their countries of origin or remain in Mexican territory under certain conditions.

“Since President Trump came into office, no migrant caravan has reached the northern border. There are two caravans right now. We tell the people in the caravan that it is very difficult to cross into the United States, that if their goal is to reach the United States, then they won’t be able to do it because that is not possible.”

Sheinbaum added that the Mexican government is also working to facilitate safe returns to the migrants’ countries of origin for those who decide to leave the route to the United States.

The president also ruled out the use of force by Mexican authorities against the migrant groups.

“There is a great deal of experience in the National Migration Institute and in all the institutions, including the National Guard as well, not as a repressive or violent action, but as support to be able to inform the people who are coming with the caravan.”

How many migrant caravans are currently in Mexico?

As of Thursday, two migrant movements in the south of the country have been reported. One is the caravan known as “God With Us,” which is in Chiapas and set out from San Pedro Sula, Honduras.

The first members entered Mexico between Nov. 7 and Nov. 8, while another group arrived on Nov. 11.

The second caravan, called “Faith and Hope 2,” arrived in Oaxaca in early November but was later broken up.

The situation came after Trump publicly demanded that the Mexican government stop these migrant movements. The U.S. president warned that if Mexico did not act, he would immediately double the tariffs applied to the country.

In a message posted on Truth Social, Trump said, “Mexico must stop them now, and if they do not, the tariffs on Mexico will be immediately doubled.”

The U.S. president also described the migrant movement as an “invasion” and said his government would not allow these people to enter the United States.

With information from EFE

According to predictions published by NASA, the eclipse will reach its peak at 11:00 ET and will have a central duration of 7 minutes and 51 seconds. Its annularity path will be 282 kilometers wide, while the point of maximum obscuration will be located at 31.3 degrees south latitude and 48.5 degrees west longitude.

The phenomenon will also be visible in partial form from other regions within the eclipse’s visibility zone. NASA’s map shows its path across the Southern Hemisphere, with the central track crossing the Atlantic Ocean and areas near South America, including Argentina, Uruguay, Chile, and Brazil, as well as Africa. Full-ring visibility, however, will be limited to those within the narrow annularity path.

Eclipse calendar: the five astronomical events set for 2027

NASA is forecasting five eclipses in 2027: two solar and three lunar. The events will be spread between February and August, with two standout phenomena for those following the movements of the Sun and Moon. The astronomical calendar includes the following dates:

• Feb. 6, 2027: annular solar eclipse.
• Feb. 20, 2027: penumbral lunar eclipse.
• July 18, 2027: penumbral lunar eclipse.
• Aug. 2, 2027: total solar eclipse.
• Aug. 17, 2027: penumbral lunar eclipse.

That means February will open the season with two eclipses, while August will bring three more events. The year’s second solar eclipse, set for Aug. 2, will be total, unlike February’s annular event.

Feb. 6, 2027 solar eclipse: path, duration and features

The Feb. 6 eclipse is an annular solar eclipse. This phenomenon occurs when the Moon moves between Earth and the Sun, but because of its distance from the planet, it does not completely cover the solar disk. As a result, a luminous ring remains visible around the Moon, popularly known as the Ring of Fire.

According to NASA estimates, the event will have a magnitude of 0.92811 and a central duration of 7 minutes and 51 seconds. Its annularity path will be 282 kilometers wide, a measurement that refers to the crosswise width of the track, not the total distance the eclipse will travel. These are the main data released by the space agency:

• Date: Saturday, Feb. 6, 2027.
• Maximum eclipse (UT): 16:00.
• Maximum eclipse (TD): 16:00:48.
• Central duration: 7 minutes and 51 seconds.
• Eclipse magnitude: 0.92811.
• Width of the annularity path: 282 kilometers.
• Point of maximum obscuration: 31.3 degrees south latitude and 48.5 degrees west longitude.
• Sun altitude: 73 degrees.
• Saros series: 131, member 51 of 70.

As for its location, the visibility map published by NASA shows that the annularity path will cross the Southern Hemisphere, from areas near South America toward the South Atlantic Ocean and on to the African continent. The point of maximum obscuration will be over the Atlantic, off the southern coast of Brazil.

It is important to distinguish between the visibility of the annular eclipse and the partial eclipse: the ring of fire can only be seen from places within the central path, while other regions within the penumbral area will be able to see the Moon partially covering the Sun. The phenomenon will not be visible from Mexico, so the ring of fire will not be seen from the country.

NASA also explains that this event is part of Saros series 131, a system that groups eclipses with similar geometry. The agency says the Saros cycle lasts about “6585.3 days (18 years, 11 days and 8 hours).”

This means that eclipses belonging to the same series return with similar configurations after that interval, although they are not necessarily seen from the same places on Earth.

This restriction applies when the relevant authorities certify the debt to federal agencies. In addition, seriously delinquent federal tax obligations can also affect the issuance and validity of these documents.

What does the State Department say about people with child support debt?

On its official website, the State Department says citizens must be current on their child support obligations (child support) in order to obtain a U.S. passport. If a person accumulates a debt of more than US$2,500, the agency cannot issue a new document and may revoke one that is already valid.

The measure requires the debt to be certified by the relevant authorities through the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). So it is not enough to have overdue payments on record: the amount owed must exceed the established limit and appear in official records.

At what amount can a passport be revoked for nonpayment?

The threshold set by federal rules is more than US$2,500 in child support. When the debt exceeds that amount, the State Department cannot issue a new passport and has the authority to revoke one that is already valid.

Affected holders receive a notice directly from the agency, which may arrive by email or at the mailing address listed on their most recent passport application.

What other debts can affect a passport’s validity?

Federal tax debts can also trigger restrictions. According to the State Department, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) must report that a person has seriously delinquent tax debt for these measures to apply.

This category includes unpaid federal taxes, along with the corresponding interest and penalties. If the taxpayer does not resolve the issue, the agency can delay or deny the passport application and even revoke one that is already valid.

What happens after the State Department revokes a passport?

Once the document is revoked, the holder can no longer use it to travel, even if the debt is later paid. To become eligible for a passport again, the person must contact the state where the debt is owed and pay the amount due. If they have debts in more than one state, they must bring payments current in all of them.

After the payment is received, state authorities must notify the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) that the debt has been cleared. The agency removes the holder from its records and tells the State Department that they are eligible to apply for the document again.

The process can take at least two to three weeks. During that period, the State Department cannot issue a new passport until HHS confirms that the person no longer appears in its records.

The measure is set out in the Federal Highways and Bridges Traffic Regulations, specifically in Articles 85 and 203, which establish the inspection powers and the procedures authorities must follow in the event of possible violations.

Under these rules, officers may stop a vehicle when they need to verify compliance with the regulations and request the relevant documents. During the inspection, they act under the procedure set out in the regulations, with the aim of checking the vehicle’s status and determining whether there is any irregularity that could amount to a traffic violation.

The procedure also sets guidelines for officers when they stop a driver for a possible offense. In this way, the checkpoints are intended to ensure that vehicles are on the road in compliance with the rules and that they meet the document requirements for traveling on federal roads.

Who can ask you for vehicle documents?

In Mexico, the National Guard can verify compliance with certain requirements, including the presentation of mandatory documents.

Article 85 of the Federal Highways and Bridges Traffic Regulations says drivers are required to present the registration card when a member of the Mexican National Guard asks for it during a vehicle checkpoint. The document must be handed over for inspection and returned once the check is finished.

The regulations say license plates, stickers and registration cards must meet the characteristics and specifications established by the Secretariat of Infrastructure, Communications and Transportation.

Article 203, meanwhile, details how officers must act when checking for possible violations.

1. They must tell the driver and passengers to remain inside the car for safety until they are authorized to get out
2. They may request the driver’s license, registration card and other documents related to the vehicle’s service to make sure everything is in order

If, during the inspection, officers detect a violation that must be punished, they must fill out a citation with the required information and set the corresponding fine.

What documents does the National Guard ask for?

During checkpoints, officers may ask the driver for the following documents:

• Valid driver’s license
• Original registration card
• Metal identification plates
• Corresponding sticker
• Current vehicle insurance that covers civil liability or damage to third parties

For federal transportation or freight vehicles, they must also present documents proving the activity and any applicable special permits.

What are the consequences of failing to comply with the rules?

The regulations also provide penalties for those who ignore the instructions of National Guard officers. In those cases, the person may be detained and turned over to the Public Prosecutor’s Office. In addition, authorities are authorized to take out of service and move to federal impound lots any vehicles that pose a road safety risk.

The Federal Consumer Protection Agency, Profeco, reminded the public, including business owners, waiters, and customers, that tips are not mandatory and demanding them as if they were is prohibited under Article 10 of the Federal Consumer Protection Law, enacted on Dec. 24, 1992, and most recently updated on Dec. 12, 2025.

What the Mexican Federal Consumer Protection Law says about tips

“No establishment that provides a service may demand a tip or set the amount of the tip, and people can report it if this occurs,” Profeco emphasized. It does this to protect consumers’ rights. Obviously, this does not mean that tips are forbidden; the law prohibits making them mandatory by the waiter or the business.

“Suppliers may not use coercive or unfair commercial methods or practices, nor abusive or imposed clauses or conditions in the supply of products or services,” reads Article 10 of the LFPC.

Profeco: What should you do if you are forced to pay an extra charge for service?

It is common for people to leave some money voluntarily at bars, hotels, and restaurants as a way of thanking staff for the service provided. That extra money does indeed add to what the worker earns, but a tip is always voluntary, and the employer, manager, or company that hires the worker must guarantee a base minimum wage, without the worker depending on tips.

• Review the charges on the bill
• Report it to Profeco if a tip is being demanded

“Businesses are required to display their prices with VAT included,” Profeco says. If a tip is hidden as part of the bill or demanded as part of the service, customers can report it through Profeco’s channels: Consumer Hotline: 55 5568 8722 or 800 468 8722, or send an email to: denunciasprofeco@profeco.gob.mx.

Note that by law, a complaint requires the customer to provide complete and verifiable information, such as “the name or business name of the establishment, full address, and a description of the facts that led to the complaint,” Profeco said.

What are the fines for failing to comply with Article 10 of the Mexican LFPC?

Both the Federal Consumer Protection Law and Profeco refer to complaints about charges that are required or demanded in exchange for service. Likewise, Article 128 of the LFPC sets out financial penalties for violating Articles 10 and 10 BIS. According to the law, fines range from 1,093.02 to 4,274,960.73 Mexican pesos (about $59 to $230,000).

Fines and closures in serious cases under Articles 128 BIS and 128 TER: if the practice affects a group of consumers, is repeated, is deceptive, or repeatedly violates rights, for example, a restaurant that automatically charges all customers a tip, the fine rises from 228,266.96 to 6,391,474.56 Mexican pesos (about $12,300 to $344,000), and Profeco may order the business to be fully or partially shut down for up to 90 days.

And you, do you usually leave a tip? The Government of Mexico reiterated that tipping is not mandatory and does not set a voluntary percentage for customers. Any extra money the customer chooses to leave the worker is entirely up to them.

What It Does

The main function of the foil ball is to reduce static electricity in clothes. It is that annoying effect that, when you take clothes out of the dryer, leaves garments stuck together, clinging to the body, giving off small sparks or making hair stand on end. The aluminum helps clothes come out looser and without that charge.

Static builds up because of a phenomenon called the triboelectric effect. Inside the dryer, clothes tumble and rub against one another for a long time. That friction causes the fabrics to exchange electrical charges: some end up positively charged and others negatively charged. Because opposite charges attract, the clothes end up sticking together. That imbalance of charges is, precisely, static electricity.

This is where aluminum comes in. Metal is a good conductor of electricity, so when the foil ball bumps and rubs against charged clothes, it provides a path for those built-up charges to equalize and discharge instead of staying trapped in the fabric. By neutralizing that imbalance, the clothes stop attracting each other and come out static-free.

How to Make and Use It Properly

The trick is simple, but it is worth doing it right so it works and does not damage the clothes:

• Make a firm, tightly packed ball about 5 to 8 centimeters in diameter, roughly the size of a tennis ball. The tighter it is, the better: that keeps it from falling apart.
• Make sure it is smooth, with no sharp points or edges that could snag delicate fabrics.
• Use two or three balls per load instead of just one: they spread the effect more evenly.
• Place them inside the drum with the clothes before starting the dryer. No extra preparation or product is needed.

This homemade trick can be used after cooking, during cleaning or when you want to freshen up a room. However, even though it is easy to make, there are some precautions to keep in mind to use it safely.

What is boiling tangerine peels with rosemary and cinnamon used for?

The blend is mainly used to scent the home. Each ingredient adds its own fragrance:

• Tangerine: the peels release a fresh citrus aroma.
• Rosemary: adds intense herbal notes.
• Cinnamon: adds a warm, spiced scent.

When heated in water, the aromatic compounds spread through the steam and help temporarily scent the room.

Place the tangerine peels, rosemary and cinnamon in a pot and cover them with water. Then bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once it starts boiling, lower the heat to medium so the ingredients keep releasing their aromas through the steam. It is important to keep an eye on the water level throughout the process to prevent it from evaporating completely.

When is it best to use this method to fragrance the room?

It can be used at different times of day, especially when you want to mask lingering odors or add a pleasant scent to indoor spaces.

Some recommended times are:

• After cooking, to help neutralize food odors.
• During cleaning, to add a fresh smell to the home.
• Before having guests over, to temporarily scent the rooms.
• On cold days, when windows stay closed longer, always making sure there is proper ventilation.

What precautions should be taken with this homemade trick?

It is important to take safety measures to avoid problems:

• Do not leave the pot unattended: the water can evaporate completely and cause the ingredients to burn.
• Control the temperature: keep it at a gentle simmer, without needing the water to boil vigorously.
• Avoid prolonged exposure to the steam: do not get too close to the pot to prevent burns.
• Maintain proper ventilation: open the windows if the room becomes too strongly scented.
• Be careful with pets: keep dogs and cats from ingesting the mixture or coming into contact with the hot water.
• Turn off the heat when finished: do not keep the mixture heating for long periods or overnight.

A Bob Vila guide describes a method using ice to help restore the pile, although some indentations may remain.

What putting ice on the mark is for

As it melts, the ice adds water that helps the crushed fibers regain height. The amount of ice depends on the size of the indentation.

How to apply the method step by step

The publication lists the following steps:

1. Place a large ice cube on the mark, or several if the area is large.
2. Let the ice melt for several hours. For deeper indentations, the guide allows up to 12 hours.
3. Blot up the excess water with a sponge.
4. Lift the fibers with a coin or spoon.

Why some marks may remain

The result depends on the material. Wool is durable, while polyester can suffer permanent damage after being compressed for a long time.

If the marks persist, professional repair may be needed.

How to reduce indentations

The guide recommends wide pads under the legs to distribute the weight over a larger surface.

It also advises vacuuming under heavy furniture and moving it a few inches about once a month to reduce marks.

Carrey, 64, put the beachfront estate on the market in early October for $35 million. Less than a month later, the property already had a buyer. Realtor reported on November 3 that the home is in “pending” status, and the final sale price has not been disclosed.

Carrey bought the property in 2016 for $16.5 million, according to records. If he gets close to his asking price, he will have more than doubled his investment.

Inside Jim Carrey’s Hawaii mansion

The property sits on nearly an acre along Keawakapu Beach, with 170 feet of ocean frontage. It was built in 2002 and designed by the architecture firm Ike Kligerman Barkley.

The main house has three bedrooms, a chef’s kitchen with two large islands and a primary suite with a swinging bed and floor-to-ceiling windows.

A separate guest house also has two more bedrooms, and between the two homes there is a pool with a hidden grotto, a slide, and an elevated spa.

The estate is being sold fully furnished with woven bamboo interiors and Douglas fir framing.

How Jim Carrey built a quiet life away from Hollywood

Over the past decade, Carrey has stepped away from the spotlight. In 2018 he described his life on Maui as “an isolated life,” and reports have described his days as filled with reading, writing, walking, and painting.

In 2022 he said he was “fairly serious” about stepping away from acting. “I really like my quiet life,” he said at the time.

The Jim Carrey life change that came right before the sale

The sale comes right after a major change in his personal life. Carrey married his partner, Min Ah, in a private ceremony in Los Angeles, and he put the Maui home on the market hours after the news broke. He has not explained why he is selling.

It is not his first big real estate exit. In 1994, he bought a Brentwood estate in Los Angeles for $3.8 million. He listed it in 2023 for $28.9 million and, after several price cuts, sold it in 2024 for $17 million.

Although not all foreigners have one, it may be necessary to complete applications, check immigration records and carry out procedures with federal agencies.

What is the unique 9-digit number that identifies foreigners?

The Alien Registration Number (Alien Registration Number) is a nine-digit identifier the government uses to recognize and record certain foreigners within the immigration system.

This code allows a person to be linked to their immigration history, applications, documents and proceedings before U.S. authorities.

Who assigns this number and where can it be found?

The number is assigned by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), when a person begins certain immigration proceedings.

It can be found on various official documents:

• Green Card: in the field marked A# or USCIS#.
• Work permit (EAD): below the USCIS# label.
• USCIS notices: on certain receipt or action notices, such as Form I-797C.
• Immigrant visa: on the stamp or document placed in the passport.
• Consular documentation: in the immigrant data summary and the immigration fee booklet.

The number may have seven, eight or nine digits. When it has fewer than nine, some systems ask users to add leading zeroes.

For what procedures may this number be requested?

The A Number identifies a person in different immigration proceedings and inquiries. Its main uses include:

• Checking immigration records: allows users to verify the status of certain cases before immigration courts.
• Filing with USCIS: it may be requested on forms and filings related to immigration applications.
• Checking hearings: allows people to learn the dates, times and locations of upcoming immigration court hearings.
• Identifying case records: helps link documents and actions tied to the same person.

For example, the Automated Case Information System (ACIS), of the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR), allows certain case information to be checked using this number.

Why is a unique number assigned to each foreigner?

The goal is to have an individual identifier that allows immigration authorities to recognize each person and organize information related to their history.

In this way, DHS and the agencies involved in immigration proceedings can link applications, documents, records and administrative or judicial actions to the same file.

Tyson abruptly shut down an entire plant and put 2,500 employees on the street

Tyson decided to end operations at its Joslin plant in Illinois, one of its beef-processing facilities. The move affected about 2,500 unionized workers, who received letters during the week of Aug. 13, 2026, with their last days of work coming just days later.

Pay for employees was extended through Oct. 12, 2026. For a community that relied heavily on that source of jobs, the blow was sudden.

Ongoing closures: the crisis facing the meatpacking giant

The Joslin shutdown adds to a string of Tyson decisions involving its beef business. The company had already closed its Lexington, Nebraska, plant in January 2026, affecting more than 2,000 jobs, announced the closure of a facility in Eagle Mountain, Utah, and is seeking to sell another beef plant in Pasco, Washington. Together, these cuts amount to roughly a third of the beef-processing capacity the company had before.

Tyson’s beef division lost $142 million in a single quarter, with sales down 16% even though beef prices are high. For fiscal 2026, the company projects a loss of between $500 million and $650 million in its U.S. beef business.

Fuente: Shutterstock

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Why slaughterhouses are closing across the country

The United States now has the smallest cattle supply in 75 years: the herd, or total number of cattle, fell to its lowest level since 1951. And according to the official data Tyson itself cites, ranchers are not rebuilding their herds — meaning they are holding back few heifers for breeding — which points to continued shortages.

Behind that decline are several combined factors: years of drought that made raising cattle more expensive and difficult, disease outbreaks and a sharp rise in costs for producers (feed, fertilizer, machinery and fuel). With fewer animals to process, meatpacking plants are operating below capacity, becoming less profitable and ultimately closing.

The attack began around 8 a.m. at VIDA Fitness, about 1.6 kilometers from the White House. One of the victims died at the scene, while the other four survivors were taken for medical treatment.

According to Acting Metropolitan Police Chief Jeffery Carroll, one of the injured remains in critical condition. The other three suffered injuries that, at least initially, are not life-threatening.

Where did the Washington shooting happen, and what happened to the suspect?

The gunfire was reported at VIDA Fitness and in the surrounding area, near 15th and P streets in Logan Circle, northwest Washington.

After opening fire, the suspected attacker went to a nearby apartment building and barricaded himself in a seventh-floor unit. According to initial police reports, he also fired at officers through the apartment door.

Authorities tried to reach the man for about an hour in an effort to get him to surrender. However, officers heard a gunshot and, when they entered the apartment, found the suspect dead from a self-inflicted wound.

The investigation is still trying to determine the motive for the attack. One of the first theories is a possible dispute between the man and the building’s homeowners association.

What did authorities say about the Logan Circle shooting?

Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser expressed concern over the incident and lamented the death of one person.

“We are devastated. This morning, one person lost their life in our city because of a senseless act of gun violence”, she said.

Police, meanwhile, had issued an alert about an active shooter shortly after 8 a.m. Officials asked residents to avoid the area while the operation was underway.

Dozens of patrol cars, special units and emergency vehicles responded to the scene. Federal agents and tactical teams also took part in bringing the situation under control.

As a precaution, nearby schools kept students and staff inside the buildings. In addition, residents were told to shelter in place, lock their doors and stay away from windows.

How many mass shootings were recorded in the United States in 2026?

The Washington attack brings renewed focus to gun violence in the United States. According to Gun Violence Archive, there had been 408 mass shootings in the country so far in 2026 at the time of the report.

The organization defines a mass shooting as an incident in which at least four people are shot, not including the attacker. The tally includes incidents in which the victims are not part of the same family.

Source: EFE.

Trump said on his Truth Social account that after his party’s defeat in the recent legislative elections, “Huge CARAVANS are forming and beginning their illegal march through Mexico.”, made up of people “that various countries don’t want.”

“But they will not be accepted! MEXICO MUST STOP THEM, NOW, and if they do not do so, the tariffs on Mexico will be IMMEDIATELY DOUBLED,” the Republican warned, after reports that about 1,500 migrants from Honduras, El Salvador, Guatemala and Nicaragua set out Tuesday from southern Mexico toward the United States.

The American also said he had sent this warning to the Mexican government, to outgoing Republican Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and to the “very liberal” governor-elect, Democrat Gina Hinojosa.

Trump added that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Border Patrol had also been informed. “No leniency!” he concluded.

The president did not specify which tariffs would be doubled or how his administration plans to carry out the measure.

After the Republicans’ defeat in the midterm elections, in which Democrats regained control of Congress, Trump named Stephen Miller, the architect of the U.S.’s aggressive immigration policy, as his new chief of staff, signaling a renewed embrace of his more hard-line positions.

Since returning to power in January 2025, the president has launched a trade war against his allies and used tariffs as a pressure tool.

Mexico and the United States are currently negotiating a reduction in tariffs, including those affecting Mexican steel, with the Claudia Sheinbaum government hoping to reach an agreement before the end of this year.

With information from EFE.

The records are among more than 1,200 CIA documents published in December 2024 by the National Security Archive, a nonprofit research group at George Washington University, together with the academic publisher ProQuest.

Bluebird began in 1950, just months before the Korean War broke out. The agency renamed it Artichoke in 1951. That work fed into MKUltra, the drug and behavior-control program the CIA launched in 1953.

What did the CIA do to Korean War prisoners under Project Bluebird?

A memo dated April 5, 1950, asked then-CIA Director Roscoe Hillenkoetter to approve three-person interrogation teams. Each team would pair a psychiatrist with a polygraph operator trained in hypnosis and a technician.

Using routine lie-detector tests as cover, the teams were to check whether defectors and agents could be trusted, relying on polygraph, drugs and hypnosis.

The first team reached Japan in July 1950, a month into the war, according to journalist John Marks’ 1979 book “The Search for the ‘Manchurian Candidate.’” Starting that October, he wrote, the team used what it called advanced techniques on 25 North Korean prisoners of war.

Marks based his account on CIA records, and the newer documents partly back it up. Notes from an Aug. 8, 1951, CIA meeting describe an Army project in Japan and Korea. In that project, a polygraph operator worked with psychiatrists and psychologists on Korean POWs.

Why did the CIA want to know if it could make someone crash a plane?

The plane question appears in an undated Bluebird document that the CIA estimates was written around January 1952. It lists problems the program believed only experiments could settle, most of them built on hypnosis.

One item asked whether a seized subject could be pushed, within an hour or two, to crash a plane or wreck a train through post-hypnotic control. Others asked whether the agency could guarantee total memory loss, reshape a personality or get someone to act against their own morals.

The research was driven by fear that communist captors were brainwashing American soldiers. In a 1983 deposition, Sidney Gottlieb, the chemist who ran MKUltra, said a review had found no evidence that American POWs in Korea were subjected to drug-induced hypnosis.

Washing curtains means taking them down, putting them in the washing machine and waiting several hours for them to dry. Another option is to use a dryer, although it is important to make sure the fabric is safe for this method to avoid possible damage.

What does spraying white vinegar on curtains do?

White vinegar is known for its deodorizing properties and its ability to help loosen dirt. It may also have antimicrobial effects and does not leave behind the chemical residue associated with some cleaning products.

That is why many households use it to keep curtains clean and fresh longer, as well as to:

• Remove odors trapped in fabrics.
• Freshen curtains without taking them down.
• Reduce the buildup of dust and moisture.

How do you safely prepare the solution?

To prepare this mixture safely, it is recommended to pour equal parts water and white vinegar into a spray bottle.

Then, spray a light layer of the solution on the curtains, without soaking them.

Finally, let them air-dry and ventilate the room to enhance the refreshing effect.

How often is it recommended to spray white vinegar on curtains at home?

The frequency depends on where the curtains are located. It can be done once a week for maintenance, or after cooking if strong odors linger in the room. It may also help on humid days to prevent a stuffy smell.

New York Fire Department (FDNY) Chief Lillian Bonsignore said at a news conference that four of the injured are in critical condition, 12 are stable, and the remaining one is a firefighter with minor injuries.

But she warned that “there may be more people (trapped) as this operation continues”.

The building, in the Brooklyn borough, came down around 4 p.m. local time (9 p.m. GMT) with several residents inside and collapsed into an adjacent building under construction, trapping several people who were in it.

Bonsignore said the rescue operation “is going to be long”, and added that more than 250 emergency personnel are deployed in the area, along with a canine unit.

The cause of the collapse remains under investigation.

Images posted on social media by firefighters show a large pile of debris that emergency crews are trying to clear with the help of excavators.

Brooklyn saw another similar tragedy last Thursday, when six people died and nine others were injured in a dramatic fire that tore through a three-story home in the Sunset Park neighborhood.

Source: EFE.

The sighting happened in June near a sensitive national security site in the western United States. It appears in two documents. One is a statement the agents gave the FBI. The other is a memo from the All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office, or AARO, the Pentagon office that investigates UFO reports.

Both are part of the seventh batch of records released through PURSUE, short for the Presidential Unsealing and Reporting System for UAP Encounters. The program began publishing files May 8 after President Donald Trump directed federal agencies to declassify them.

UAP stands for unidentified anomalous phenomena, the government’s term for what most people call UFOs. Anyone can browse the records for free at war.gov/UFO. The department says more files will follow on a rolling basis.

What did the federal agents see when the silent triangle appeared?

According to the AARO memo, the object climbed roughly 200 to 300 feet above the ridgeline over about 10 seconds. It then hung in place for around 20 seconds.

Next, it banked toward a canyon and dropped out of sight behind the terrain in two to three seconds. The witnesses estimated it covered about 1.5 miles in that final burst.

The agents described a dark, non-reflective object that made no sound and had no visible engines. One compared it to a delta-wing drone. Delta wing refers to the swept, triangle-shaped wing used on some military aircraft.

A third official at a separate observation post followed the object with handheld thermal equipment. The heat across its surface looked even, with none of the hot spots an engine typically gives off. A search of the canyon the next morning turned up no wreckage or damage.

Do the UFO files explain what the federal agents saw?

No. Neither document identifies the object or says where it came from. The department labels cases like this unresolved. That means investigators didn’t have enough information to identify the object. It does not mean they found signs of extraterrestrial activity.

The two accounts also differ on key details. The AARO memo describes a sequence lasting more than 30 seconds, while the FBI statement puts the whole sighting at about three seconds.

The documents also log the first report an hour apart: 7:23 p.m. in the FBI statement and 8:23 p.m. in the AARO memo, both in local time. Neither file explains the gap.

No radar data, video or audio recordings back up the agents’ description. The FBI statement includes nine images, but they don’t appear to show the triangle itself.

The requirement is listed in the State Department’s official guide for adults applying for their first passport or who do not qualify to renew it.

When a second ID is required

The requirement depends on the state that issued the ID and where the application is submitted.

The guide lists a valid driver’s license with a photo among the most common accepted documents. If it was issued in another state, it must be accompanied by another photo ID.

Among the additional documents the State Department accepts to prove identity are government employee credentials, U.S. military IDs and valid Global Entry, FAST, SENTRI or NEXUS cards.

What copies must accompany the paperwork

The applicant must show the physical ID and provide a photocopy of the front and back. Copies must be on 8.5-by-11-inch paper, using one side of the sheet only.

A proof of U.S. citizenship and a photocopy of it must also be provided. Options include a U.S. birth certificate and naturalization or citizenship certificates.

How the in-person submission works

The application, documents and fees are submitted at an authorized acceptance facility. There, the agent verifies the ID, administers the oath and asks the applicant to sign the form.

For that reason, the State Department says not to sign it before the agent asks you to. In addition, a passport photo must be submitted, and it will be reviewed when the application is accepted.

The change was set by a budget law enacted in July 2025, but its effects on current beneficiaries will begin taking effect in 2027. The groups affected include refugees, people granted asylum and beneficiaries of Temporary Protected Status, or TPS.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has begun notifying beneficiaries to verify whether they meet the new requirements. Those who cannot prove they belong to an eligible immigration category could lose health coverage starting Feb. 1, 2027.

Which immigrants can get Medicare and who will be excluded

The new law limits Medicare eligibility to four immigration categories: U.S. citizens and nationals, lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders), people recognized as Cuban-Haitian entrants, and certain immigrants living in the U.S. under Compact of Free Association (COFA) agreements. They must also meet the program’s other standard requirements.

As a result, refugees, people granted asylum, Temporary Protected Status beneficiaries, and other immigrants who do not belong to the eligible groups are left out under the new criteria. The change marks a departure from previous rules, which allowed certain foreign nationals living legally in the U.S. to qualify for Medicare if they met the age, disability and work-history requirements.

Why having a work permit does not guarantee Medicare access

Having authorization to work in the United States does not amount to meeting the immigration requirements for Medicare. An immigrant can have an Employment Authorization Document, or EAD, a Social Security number and a legal job, but still be excluded from the program if their immigration category is not one of the four allowed under the new law.

For example, someone with approved asylum or TPS may keep a work permit and still lose access to Medicare. By contrast, a lawful permanent resident with a Green Card may meet the immigration requirement, though they still must meet the program’s general conditions, such as being 65 or older or qualifying through disability, ALS or end-stage renal disease.

When affected immigrants could lose health coverage

Although Trump signed the law on July 4, 2025, the restriction for people already enrolled in Medicare has a later effective date. The law set an 18-month deadline, which falls on Jan. 4, 2027. However, the SSA says coverage for affected beneficiaries will generally continue through Jan. 31 and end on Feb. 1, 2027.

To determine who qualifies, the SSA began sending notices in November 2026 to beneficiaries whose eligibility it could not confirm. Anyone who receives a notice will need to provide documentation proving U.S. citizenship or an eligible immigration status, following the instructions and deadlines provided.

In that case, users who believe they were wrongly excluded will be able to appeal the decision within 60 days of receiving the notice.

The move, backed by the State Department and notified to the U.S. Congress, is seen by analysts as a response to China’s growing presence in the region, especially after the opening of a Chinese megaport nearby.

United States to Invest $1.5 Billion in Major Naval Base in Latin America

The U.S. State Department authorized the sale of equipment and services to Peru, worth an estimated up to $1.5 billion, aimed at modernizing the Callao naval base facilities. The request came from the Peruvian government itself, which asked for permission to buy the support needed to improve the base’s maritime and coastal facilities.

According to official information, the package is not limited to equipment sales: It also includes a strong technical support component. Among the planned items are:

• Design and support for the construction of maritime and coastal facilities.
• Engineering, management and construction supervision services (construction management).
• Logistical support and other services associated with the project.
• The assignment of up to 20 U.S. government or contractor representatives, for a period of up to 10 years, to oversee construction management.

Where Callao Port Is and Why It Matters

Callao is Peru’s main port, located next to Lima on the Pacific Ocean, and the naval base there is the Peruvian Navy’s main installation. Its location is strategic: It sits in an area of heavy activity, where the base shares waterways with the commercial port.

One goal of the modernization is to give naval operations a safer and more efficient platform, reducing interaction between civilian traffic and military operations.

The Move to Counter China’s Influence in the Region

The project cannot be understood without looking at the map. In 2024, the Chinese state-owned shipping company COSCO opened the Chancay megaport, an investment reported at around $1.3 billion, located about 80 kilometers north of Lima. That project turned China into a major player on South America’s Pacific coast and set off alarms in Washington over its influence in the region.

Against that backdrop, several analysts see U.S. support for the Callao base as part of a strategy to counter that advance. The underlying dispute is over economic and military influence in a region that has regained importance in the global competition between the two powers.

The agency uses Form 1099-K to record certain transactions and verify that taxpayers correctly report their income on their tax returns. Those who exceed certain payment limits and transaction thresholds will receive this document, although the duty to report taxable income also applies to people who do not receive it.

Failing to report taxable earnings can have financial consequences.

Who Will Receive Form 1099-K in 2027 and What Requirements Must They Meet

The IRS uses Form 1099-K to report payments people receive from selling goods or providing services through payment apps and digital platforms. During January 2027, taxpayers will receive this document with information on transactions completed during 2026. In this regard, businesses that process credit or debit card payments must issue it regardless of the amount or number of transactions, while third-party platforms must do so when payments exceed $20,000 and 200 transactions in a year.

Covered platforms include marketplaces, auction sites, payment apps, ride-hailing services and freelance platforms. The form is issued by those companies and a copy is also sent to the IRS.

What Online Income Must Be Reported to the IRS

Taxpayers must report taxable income they earn by selling products or providing services online, whether or not they receive Form 10-K. This includes earnings from online sellers, independent workers and people who offer services through apps. The information on the form should be used together with other records to calculate the income that must be reported in the 2027 tax season.

To correctly determine the gross amount, users should account for product costs, fees, refunds and other applicable expenses. The IRS also says gifts from family or friends and payments received to reimburse shared personal expenses do not count as taxable income.

What Happens If They Don’t Report Income Received Through Digital Platforms

Those who leave out taxable income and, as a result, pay less tax than they owe may face an accuracy-related penalty on their return. According to the IRS, the penalty equals 20% of the unpaid tax when the shortfall is due to negligence or a substantial understatement. For example, if the omission causes a $2,000 tax underpayment, the penalty could be $400.

Interest on the debt and the penalty may also be added until the balance is paid. However, the 20% does not apply automatically to any omitted income, since the conditions set out in the rules must be met. That is why the IRS recommends filing accurate returns and keeping records of payments, sales and expenses to back up the reported information.

Pouring vinegar into the toilet once a week is a household practice that can help keep the bathroom clean, especially in homes where the water has a high mineral content. Its usefulness is tied to acetic acid, a compound that reacts with certain deposits and helps remove them.

It is often used as a low-cost alternative to some cleaning products. Several scientific studies have examined both its ability to dissolve mineral residue and its effects on certain microorganisms, although the results depend on the concentration used and the conditions of application.

What is pouring vinegar into the toilet for, and what are its benefits?

One of vinegar’s main benefits is its ability to act on limescale buildup on bathroom surfaces. This buildup forms mainly because of minerals in the water, especially calcium carbonate, and can leave whitish stains or stubborn deposits in the toilet bowl.

A doctoral study from Virginia Tech University looked at different technologies and substances to reduce mineral buildup.

In one experiment, cleaning vinegar with 6% acetic acid was able to dissolve virtually all the calcium carbonate in a sample after two hours of exposure. However, this was a laboratory test and not a specific trial on home toilets.

These properties make it possible to identify three benefits of periodic use:

1. Reduce limescale buildup: acetic acid helps dissolve certain mineral deposits.
2. Make stains easier to remove: it can help loosen deposits associated with hard water and make scrubbing easier.
3. Supplement routine cleaning: using it can help maintain the ceramic surface, although it does not replace products made for disinfecting.

In addition, a study published in 2020 in BMC Microbiology found that acetic acid has activity against certain microorganisms under experimental conditions.

How should vinegar be used in the toilet to take advantage of its properties?

To add this product to your weekly bathroom cleaning, white vinegar with an acetic acid concentration of around 5% can be used. It is especially useful on areas where limescale stains and mineral deposits appear, as long as the surface and the manufacturer’s instructions allow the use of acidic products.

The process is simple and does not require special tools:

1. Make sure there are no traces of other cleaners left, especially bleach or disinfectant products.
2. Pour a moderate amount of white vinegar onto the inside walls of the bowl and the areas where limescale builds up.
3. Let it sit for about 30 minutes.
4. Scrub with a toilet brush to loosen the mineral deposits.
5. Flush to remove the residue and the product.

Doing this once a week can be part of a preventive routine. The need for cleaning depends on water hardness, how often the toilet is used, and how much buildup is present.

On the other hand, vinegar should never be mixed with bleach (a substance that contains chlorine and is used as a disinfectant, bleaching agent, and solvent), since this combination can release chlorine gas, a toxic substance that can cause respiratory irritation and serious injuries.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warn about the risks of mixing cleaning products and recommend using each substance according to the manufacturer’s instructions

The preparation does not need flour or added sugar. It can also be customized with cinnamon, nuts, or seeds, although these ingredients are optional and are not part of the basic recipe.

What ingredients are needed to make two-ingredient oatmeal cookies

To make these homemade cookies, you only need two ingredients: two ripe bananas and about two and a half cups (250 g) of rolled oats. The recipe published by the food website Directo al Paladar uses those amounts to make about six cookies.

The banana should be ripe enough to mash easily and add sweetness to the mixture. Although the base does not require any other ingredients, additional ingredients can be added to change the flavor.

How to Make Oatmeal and Banana Cookies Step by Step

The first step is to peel the bananas and place them in a bowl. Then, mash them with a fork until you get a puree without large chunks.

Next, add the rolled oats and mix everything until you get a smooth dough. If it seems too dry, you can add a little more mashed banana to make it easier to shape.

Once the mixture is ready, form small spoonfuls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Then, flatten them slightly to give them a cookie shape.

They should be baked in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 20 minutes. Once baking is done, they can rest for another five minutes before being removed.

It is important to keep in mind that these cookies do not come out as crisp as traditional ones. When they come out of the oven, they may be soft, but they become more firm as they cool.

How to Customize Oatmeal Cookies Without Adding Flour or Sugar

One of the advantages of this recipe is that it allows other ingredients to be added to create different flavors and textures. Although the original preparation contains only banana and oats, some extras can be added. Options include:

• Ground cinnamon: adds aroma and a stronger flavor.
• Pumpkin seeds: add a crunchy texture.
• Walnuts or almonds: add nuts to the recipe.
• Dark chocolate: an option for those who prefer a sweeter result.
• Flax seeds: can be mixed into the dough before shaping the cookies.

The cookies can be stored in an airtight container once they are completely cool. They are an option to serve with coffee, tea, or breakfast, although their texture and shelf life may vary depending on the additional ingredients used.

The Traffic Regulations say this violation can add points to a driver’s license, while the Mobility Law lays out the circumstances under which authorities can suspend or cancel the permit, meaning the driver’s license can be invalidated.

The outcome depends on the accumulation of points or repeat violations of different rules, in line with the conditions set out in Mexico City’s regulations.

What penalty does the traffic regulation set for running a red light?

Article 10, Section VI, of the Traffic Regulations of CDMX says drivers must stop their vehicle when the traffic light is red, without crossing into the crosswalk or the waiting areas for bicycles or motorcycles.

Those who fail to comply can be fined 10, 15, or 20 times the Unidad de Medida y Actualización (UMA), plus a three-point deduction from the license when the violation is issued by a traffic officer.

When the offense is caught by technology systems, it is punished with one point on the vehicle registration, without deducting points from the license.

The fine amount depends on outstanding penalties:

• with zero or one outstanding, 10 UMA;
• with two or three, 15 UMA;
• with four or more, 20 UMA.
• Article 64 provides a 50% discount if it is paid within the first 30 days.

The official UMA values are set from February 1, 2026, and remain active until January 31, 2027. A single UMA costs $117.31 MXN, equivalent to $6.30 USD.

When can a driver’s license be canceled or suspended in CDMX?

The rules provide for two different mechanisms that can affect the right to drive. The first is cancellation for accumulating points, set out in Article 66 of the Traffic Regulations. The second is suspension for repeat offenses, set out in Article 68, Section I, of the Mobility Law.

In the case of point-based cancellation, the license is canceled once 12 points are accumulated. Since running a red light punished by an officer adds three points, four such violations can reach the set limit.

The points expire one year after the date of the ticket, and the license can be reissued only after three years. If the driver is caught driving during that period, the vehicle can be taken to an impound lot and a fine of 180 UMA is imposed.

On the other hand, the Mobility Law says the Mobility Secretariat (Semovi) can suspend a license for six months to three years when a driver accumulates three violations of the law or its regulations in a year.

In this case, running a red light can be one of the three offenses that trigger the measure. During the suspension, reissuance of the license is not allowed, under Article 69.

In addition, if the secretariat suspends the license twice, it must permanently cancel it, according to Article 67, Section IV, of the Mobility Law.

Running a red light can contribute to losing the right to drive in CDMX, whether through point accumulation or repeat offenses. However, the license is not automatically invalidated by a single violation; that happens only when the conditions established in the capital’s Traffic Regulations and Mobility Law are met.

The Army Chemical Corps wanted to know how small doses of these agents affected soldiers and whether gear and medicines could protect them, the Department of Veterans Affairs says. Participants were exposed to more than 250 chemicals, according to the Department of Defense.

Participation was voluntary. But on arrival at Edgewood, soldiers signed oaths to keep every detail confidential, and breaking them could bring a court-martial or criminal charges, court records show.

The Pentagon freed participants from the oaths in 2006. By then, many had gone decades without seeking care or benefits, a gap still being fought over in court and in Congress.

What chemical weapons and drugs did the US Army test on soldiers at Edgewood?

According to the VA, the tests mixed weapons the military feared it could face with drugs to treat their victims, plus common substances and placebos such as saline. Soldiers received:

• Nerve and blister agents: sarin, mustard agents and pesticides that act on the nervous system much like sarin
• Mind-altering substances: LSD, PCP, cannabinoids and the incapacitating agent BZ
• Crowd-control chemicals: tear gas and other irritants
• Antidotes: atropine, scopolamine and 2-PAM chloride, which helps reverse nerve agent poisoning
• Everyday substances: alcohol and caffeine

The studies tracked only immediate reactions, with no plan to follow soldiers’ health afterward. A 2016 report commissioned by the Army later reasoned that test doses were too weak and brief to cause lasting harm, and found no significant problems in participants.

At the Army’s request, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine reviewed that report in 2018. The panel found it had missed relevant studies and health effects and called for a more rigorous method.

Can veterans sworn to secrecy in the US Army tests get VA benefits?

Yes. Any veteran who believes a health problem stems from the Edgewood tests can seek VA disability compensation, and each claim gets an individual review. There’s no registry to join first.

No lab test can prove an exposure from half a century ago. Instead, the VA points veterans to a medical history and exam from their doctor or a VA environmental health coordinator, including a look at lasting psychological effects.

The oaths also cost veterans money. VA disability payments generally start when a claim is filed, so years of silence meant years of lost benefits. In 2023, a federal appeals court ruled that an Edgewood veteran was owed payments dating to his 1971 discharge.

The OATH Act, sponsored by Connecticut Democratic Sen. Richard Blumenthal, would extend that to all participants and require the VA to find and notify them. The Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee approved it March 18. It still needs full Senate and House votes and the president’s signature.

The agency also confirmed a boost based on the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for its 2027 benefits. This increase will take effect earlier than usual for SSI recipients, who will receive the new amount in their second December payment.

What are the two most important dates for these SSA beneficiaries in December 2026?

SSI recipients will receive their payments on these two dates:

• December 1, 2026: deposit for the December benefit.
• December 31, 2026: advance payment for January 2027, which will already include the COLA increase.

Why do SSI recipients get two payments in December?

The SSA advances January’s payment because Jan. 1 is a federal holiday (New Year’s Day). When the usual payment date falls on a weekend or holiday, the agency sends the transfer on the previous business day.

So the second deposit is not an extra benefit, but the January 2027 payment.

How much of a COLA increase will SSI receive for 2027?

The SSA confirmed a 3.6% increase for 2027, which will also apply to SSI recipients. According to the agency, the new adjustment will take effect for these recipients with the Dec. 31, 2026, deposit.

The maximum monthly federal benefit will rise from:

• $994 to $1,029 for one person.
• $1,491 to $1,544 for an eligible couple.

Individual amounts may vary depending on income and other eligibility conditions.

That rule is in Section 202(y) of the law and says that for each full calendar month in which a foreign national does not have legal presence in the country, the Social Security Administration (SSA) does not pay that month’s benefit.

What Section 202(y) says

Section 202(y) sets a legal-presence requirement for payment of Social Security benefits (Title II benefits: retirement, disability and family and survivor benefits) to people who are not U.S. citizens.

Specifically, it says benefits will not be paid for any full calendar month during which the foreign beneficiary is not legally present in the United States, as determined under the country’s immigration rules.

A foreign national who meets all the requirements to collect, including the needed years of contributions, still does not receive payment for any full months in which they do not have legal status in the country.

What is meant by “legal presence”

The SSA does not define legal presence itself; immigration rules do that, now through the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Broadly speaking, in addition to U.S. citizens and nationals, foreign nationals who are in the country lawfully under certain categories are considered to have legal presence.

When Social Security benefits stop being paid

Under this rule, the SSA stops paying the monthly benefit to a foreign beneficiary for each full calendar month in which they do not have legal presence in the United States. If the person did not have legal status for the entire month, that payment is not made. No special “cutoff” notice is needed for this to happen, because the requirement applies month by month based on status during each period.

Payments resume starting in the month the person regains legal presence. The following benefits can be paid again, as long as the other conditions are met. So rather than a permanent termination, the measure works like a switch tied to immigration status: it turns off in months without legal presence and can turn back on once that status is restored.

Prince was 57 and had no spouse, no living children, and no will. Under Minnesota law, his fortune went to his six half-siblings: Sharon, Norrine, John R. and Tyka Nelson, Omarr Baker, and Alfred Jackson.

Six half-siblings became his heirs

Just identifying the heirs took a year. Some people even showed up at the courthouse “asking for the keys to Paisley Park,” according to Joe Cassioppi, a lawyer for Comerica Bank, which managed the estate.

“There has never been a probate case in Minnesota as complicated as this one,” he told the Star Tribune.

How much was Prince’s estate worth?

The first major dispute was over the value of the estate. The bank initially estimated it at $82.3 million, while the IRS valued it at $163.2 million.

In January 2022, after years of negotiations, all sides agreed on $156.4 million.

The figure mattered because it determined how much the estate owed in state taxes. After payments, about $104.8 million was left to distribute, according to court documents.

The fight between heirs over Prince’s estate

The court battle ended up costing tens of millions of dollars in legal and administrative fees.

Also, while the case dragged on, two of the heirs, John R. Nelson and Alfred Jackson, died.

Their lawyer later urged lawmakers to reform probate laws so elderly heirs would not have to wait so long.

Who ended up with Prince’s fortune?

In July 2022, a judge approved the final agreement. The estate was split 50-50 between two groups:

• Primary Wave, a New York music company that had bought most of the shares of three siblings: Tyka Nelson, Omarr Baker, and Alfred Jackson.
• The other three siblings (Sharon, Norrine, and John R. Nelson) or their families, along with their advisers.

Both sides now share control of Prince’s music rights and businesses, including Paisley Park.

“Prince can now rest in peace,” his half-sister Sharon Nelson said after the final hearing. Leaving the courthouse, she added: “Free at last.”

The maximum benefit reaches $1,330. However, the amount is not the same for everyone: it changes according to household income and the number of qualifying children. Applications are already being accepted, and eligible residents have several years to submit their requests.

Who qualifies for Washington’s $1,330 refund?

The state Department of Revenue requires applicants to meet several conditions for the 2025 tax year. Having a job during the year is not enough by itself: applicants must also meet the program’s residency, age, tax-filing and income rules.

The main requirements are:

• Washington residency: Applicants must have lived in the state for at least 183 days during 2025.
• Identification number: They must have a valid Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
• Age or family status: They must have been at least 25 and under 65 in 2025, or have a qualifying child.
• Federal tax return: They must have filed a federal income tax return for 2025.
• Income eligibility: They must qualify for the federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), or meet its requirements but file using an ITIN.

The program does not require applicants to have a Social Security number specifically. A valid ITIN is accepted, including for people who are not eligible to receive an SSN. Applicants who include a spouse or children on their application must also provide a valid SSN or ITIN for each person.

How much can eligible workers receive?

The maximum refund depends on the number of qualifying children included in the application. The state sets different benefit amounts for each household category, while income limits determine who can qualify.

Income limits also vary according to filing status. For the 2025 tax year, the thresholds are:

These figures represent the maximum income allowed to qualify. The actual refund may be lower than the maximum because the program calculates the benefit according to income and family circumstances. The minimum refund is $50.

How to apply for the Working Families Tax Credit

Washington began accepting applications for the 2025 tax year on February 1, 2026. Residents can submit their requests through the official Working Families Tax Credit website, where the application is available in English and Spanish.

Applicants can also request a paper application or receive assistance at a Department of Revenue field office. The state offers three ways to receive the refund: direct deposit, a paper check or a prepaid debit card.

The deadline to apply for the 2025 tax year is December 31, 2029. This means eligible workers do not have to submit their applications immediately, although they should check the requirements and prepare the necessary information.

The WFTC is separate from the federal Earned Income Tax Credit. Therefore, people who qualify for both programs may receive the Washington state refund in addition to their federal tax credit.

The study, published in Science Translational Medicine and led by the University of Pittsburgh in the United States, analyzed 16 pharmacogenes, or genes known to affect the effectiveness or toxicity of various drugs. To do so, it combined whole-genome sequencing with electronic health records from 98,590 participants.

All participants had at least one genetic variant

The results show that everyone in the sample had at least one of these genetic variants, with a median of nine per participant.

In addition, 24.4% had taken a medication whose effect can be altered by one of the variants they carried, according to EFE.

Ibuprofen, omeprazole, and other common drugs affected

Among the most common drugs identified in the study were ondansetron, used to treat nausea; ibuprofen, an anti-inflammatory; omeprazole and pantoprazole, used for acid reflux and heartburn; and atorvastatin, which is used to lower cholesterol.

In the United States, more than 300 drugs include information in their labeling about how they interact with genetic variants, in cases where a genetic test can help guide prescribing. One example is a chemotherapy drug for colon cancer that can cause severe toxicity in up to 8% of patients with these variants, so they are tested before treatment.

The importance of precision medicine

According to the University of Pittsburgh, the finding highlights the value of genetic testing for certain medications. It also suggests that adding alerts to electronic health records could help doctors when prescribing any of these drugs.

Although many factors influence how a patient responds to treatment, genetics “could be a decisive factor for a large proportion of patients and underscores the importance of precision medicine when prescribing,” said the study’s lead author, Philip Empey.

More Than 17,000 New Variants Identified

The team also identified more than 17,000 new genetic variants and calculated the frequency of other known variants across different ancestry groups, including populations for which estimates had not previously been available.

The study was based on data from the All of Us research program at the U.S. National Institutes of Health, which aims to collect information from 1 million people to better understand how lifestyle, environment and genes affect health and disease.

One of those situations is when the holder reported a valid passport as lost or stolen. In those cases, the document is invalidated and the citizen can no longer use it to go through the usual renewal process, even if it is later found.

To get a replacement, they must complete Form DS-11 and submit the required documents in person.

Why a passport cannot be renewed with Form DS-82 if it was reported lost or stolen

The U.S. State Department says citizens can only use Form DS-82 to renew their passport by mail if they meet certain conditions. One of them is that the previous document was never reported lost or stolen.

The requirements for this option include:

• Submit the most recent U.S. passport with the application.
• The document must have been issued within the last 15 years.
• The holder must have been at least 16 when it was issued.
• The passport must be valid for 10 years and show no significant damage.

When someone reports a valid passport lost or stolen, the State Department cancels it. That means that even if the person later finds it, it can no longer be used for travel.

For that reason, the person is barred from renewing it by mail using DS-82 and must apply in person for a new document if they are in the U.S..

What form citizens must submit to replace a lost or stolen passport

Citizens in the U.S. must complete Form DS-11, which is used to apply for a new passport when they do not qualify to renew it. The process must be completed in person at an authorized passport acceptance facility.

They must also report the loss or theft of the previous document using Form DS-64. However, they do not necessarily have to submit it separately, since the State Department allows the person to report what happened directly when completing DS-11.

There are several ways to report the incident:

• Online: through the State Department’s official tool.
• By mail: with a signed Form DS-64.
• When applying for a replacement: by reporting the loss or theft within the DS-11 application.

If the citizen is outside the United States, they must contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for instructions.

What requirements and documents the United States requires to apply for a new passport

To replace the document using Form DS-11, adult applicants must submit a series of documents proving their identity and U.S. citizenship.

According to the State Department, they must provide:

• Form DS-11: completed and printed. It must not be signed until instructed by the acceptance office official.
• Proof of U.S. citizenship: this can be a birth certificate, a previous U.S. passport in good condition, a naturalization certificate or a citizenship certificate, among other accepted documents.
• Photo ID: a valid physical document must be presented, such as a driver’s license.
• Copies: these must include a copy of the proof of citizenship and copies of the front and back of the photo ID.
• Passport photo: it must meet the measurements and requirements set by U.S. authorities.

In this regard, the application must be submitted in person at an authorized office, where an official will verify the documents and administer the required oath before asking for the form to be signed.

As for adult fees, the passport book has an application fee of $130, plus $35 for acceptance of the application. If a passport card or both documents are requested, the amounts are different.

This protection under the labor law applies to everyone employed by large employers -500 people or more- in retail, hotel or food service sectors.

What Oregon labor law says about changing employees’ schedules without notice

Officials explain that the work schedule must be provided in writing to each employee at least 14 calendar days in advance.

If a worker’s schedule is changed -even if only for one day- and they were not specifically notified, an extra payment must be made, equivalent to one additional hour of work.

This payment must be made whenever more than 30 minutes are added to the work schedule; the date, start time or end time of the shift is changed while keeping the same number of hours; or an extra or on-call shift is added.

“If you ask to work additional shifts, the extra compensation on top of your hourly pay does not apply,” it says.

What exceptions does labor law include to this rule?

The extra compensation outlined above does not have to be paid when schedule changes could not be properly notified to the worker because of force majeure, such as a natural disaster.

The factors covered include:

• Floods
• Earthquakes
• Volcanic eruptions
• Tsunamis
• Wildfires
• Snowstorms
• Extreme temperatures
• Fires
• Explosions
• Wars
• Civil unrest

Oregon labor law: what it says about rest between shifts

The rules say that, unless explicitly requested by the worker, it is not legal to call an employee in to work during the first 10 hours after the end of their shift.

“If you are scheduled for a consecutive shift with less than 10 hours in between, your employer must pay you time and a half your regular wage,” it explains.

During these weeks, beneficiaries will be able to make changes in three programs: the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHB), the Postal Service Health Benefits Program (PSHB) and the Federal Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP).

The agency also reminded workers who meet the requirements that they can enroll in the Federal Flexible Spending Account Program (FSAFEDS), an option that lets them set aside pretax money for certain medical expenses.

How long federal employees can change health insurance

The official schedule states that open enrollment began Nov. 9 and will end Monday, Dec. 14, 2026. Until then, federal workers and eligible retirees can compare options and decide whether to keep their current benefits or choose other options for next year.

The deadline has one twist: the closing time depends on the program.

• FEHB and PSHB: the deadline is 11:59 p.m., based on the local time of the online enrollment system.
• FEDVIP and FSAFEDS: enrollment ends at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time (ET).

What insurance and benefits federal employees can change

The open enrollment includes different medical coverage options and supplemental benefits. Each program has its own features and is aimed at certain groups of workers and beneficiaries. The main coverages they can review are:

• FEHB: offers health insurance to eligible federal employees and other beneficiaries who meet the program requirements.
• PSHB: provides health coverage to eligible U.S. Postal Service employees and retirees and their qualifying family members.
• FEDVIP: lets participants buy dental and vision insurance through different participating insurers.
• FSAFEDS: offers flexible spending accounts to use pretax funds for certain health care expenses.

For 2027, the FEHB program will offer 118 plan options from 45 insurers. In the case of PSHB, 65 options from 17 companies will be available. Meanwhile, FEDVIP will include 21 dental insurance options from 11 insurers and 10 vision coverage options offered by five companies.

What happens if federal employees do not change their health insurance before Dec. 14

Those who are satisfied with their current coverage do not need to make any changes to stay in the programs next year. However, there is an important difference for those who use FSAFEDS: participants must make a new election each year if they want to keep this benefit. In other words, simply keeping enrollment open is not enough.

What changes will there be in benefits in 2027

One of OPM’s standout announcements is the addition of a FSAFEDS Visa card for certain eligible medical expenses. Participants will be able to choose the option to pay authorized expenses directly at the point of sale for health care, pharmacy, dental and vision. They will also be able to keep using the electronic reimbursement system.

On the other hand, OPM noted that, for the second year in a row, it managed to slow the average growth of federal insurance premiums.

The Australian consumer group CHOICE explains that there are cheaper alternatives for avoiding these products.

Among them, it recommends using white vinegar in the washing machine, an option that can help soften clothes without leaving behind any odor after washing.

How much vinegar should you put in the washing machine to replace fabric softener?

According to CHOICE, the right ratio is half a cup of white vinegar per load of laundry. The group advises putting it directly in the fabric softener compartment, rather than adding it with the detergent during the wash cycle.

Although vinegar can work as an alternative, CHOICE says it does not necessarily provide the same level of softness as a commercial fabric softener. Still, it notes that it is significantly cheaper and offers other benefits during laundering.

What are the benefits of using white vinegar instead of fabric softener?

The Australian group says replacing fabric softener with vinegar can offer several benefits. Among them:

• It does not leave an odor on clothes: when the wash is done, there is no vinegar smell or residue left on the garments.
• It does not cause skin irritation from fabric softener residue: unlike commercial products, vinegar does not leave fabric softener residue on the fabric.
• It does not reduce towel absorbency: it helps preserve this quality, which can be affected by conventional fabric softeners.
• It helps clean the washing machine: it helps remove residue and buildup inside the machine, which can get worse with the use of commercial fabric softeners.

CHOICE also says fabric softeners are unnecessary products and recommends simple alternatives for getting fluffier clothes, such as shaking out towels after washing or putting them in the dryer for a few minutes.

Among his main proposals, Slim calls for changing the way work hours are distributed: setting schedules of up to 12 hours a day for just three days a week. In exchange, he says the retirement age should be raised to 75 instead of keeping current limits.

Although this is not a new idea in his remarks, the proposal is once again gaining attention in an international context in which pension systems are facing difficulties in ensuring their financial sustainability.

Retirement system in Mexico

In Mexico, the retirement age is currently around 65, while life expectancy is above 75, a gap that, according to the businessman, makes it necessary to review the conditions under which people stop working.

From his perspective, longer lifespans have changed the needs of pension systems. More and more people are retiring and spending more years in the system, which increases costs for both the public sector and private funds. That is why Slim believes the models designed when people lived shorter lives need an update.

“People should work three days, 12 hours a day, three days to make room for three other people to work the other three days and retire at 75, not 65 or 60,” he said in October 2023 during the 28th Plenary Meeting of the Montevideo Circle Foundation, held in Spain.

The businessman argues that extending working life could help ease the financial pressure on pension systems and, at the same time, support higher income generation.

That position is also tied to the challenges facing his own business group. At Telmex, one of his most important companies, the pension system is one of its main financial obligations, because the company has pension commitments to more than 40,000 retirees, many of them covered under older plans that allowed early retirement.

Flaws Carlos Slim sees in the pension system

Carlos Slim believes current retirement systems are becoming increasingly difficult to sustain, especially in economies where gross domestic product (GDP) growth is limited and poverty remains high. In that context, he warns of the need to find alternatives that allow available resources to be balanced against social security obligations.

However, the proposal also draws criticism from experts and different sectors of society. One of the main objections is that delaying retirement could deepen inequalities, especially for people who do physically demanding work, work in precarious conditions, or do not have the same ability to stay active into older age.

There are also questions about the consequences of implementing 12-hour shifts, even when they are concentrated into fewer days of the week. Concerns include the possible effects on health, rest, productivity, and the balance between work and personal life.

It involves placing a sheet of aluminum foil under the ironing board cover. It’s not a pointless gimmick: it has a specific physical explanation and helps you iron faster.

What putting aluminum foil under the ironing board cover does

Putting aluminum foil under the cover helps speed up ironing and remove wrinkles with less effort. With this trick, each pass of the iron is more effective, so fewer repeats are needed to smooth out a garment. In practice, that means less time ironing and, along the way, lower energy use from the iron.

The trick relies on one property of aluminum: it is a material that reflects heat instead of absorbing it. Normally, when the iron rests on the fabric, heat reaches it only from above, and the board underneath absorbs and “takes away” some of that heat. By placing a sheet of foil under the cover, the heat that would pass through the fabric bounces back up.

The result is that the garment gets heat from both sides at once: from the iron above and from the reflected heat below. With the fabric heated on both sides, wrinkles give way more quickly.

Step by step: how to do it properly

The process is simple:

• Remove the cloth cover from the ironing board.
• Spread one or more sheets of aluminum foil over the surface of the board, covering it well, with the shinier side facing up (the side that reflects better).
• Smooth out the foil so it is free of wrinkles or folds and the surface stays even.
• Put the cloth cover back over the foil.
• Iron as usual: you’ll notice clothes smooth out in fewer passes.

Why it’s recommended

Beyond the result, the appeal is that it’s a cheap, simple trick that makes use of something almost everyone has in the kitchen. It doesn’t require buying a special board or accessories: one sheet of aluminum foil is enough. Add to that the time savings, especially useful when there’s a lot of laundry to iron, and the energy savings, since ironing faster means the iron works less.

The material covering the driver’s side windows is one of the law’s provisions. While tinted windows are allowed in Florida, they must comply with the rules set for light transmittance and solar reflectance.

Transmittance and reflectance: what is the difference between them

Transmittance is the amount of sunlight the glass lets into the vehicle. The lower the tint’s transmittance, the darker the glass will be.

Reflectance, meanwhile, is the percentage of sunlight that bounces off the window, and that affects how mirrored the tint looks.

Fuente: shutterstock

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What Florida Statute 316.2953 says about transmittance and reflectance

The official rule says vehicles in Florida may not travel on any public road or street where the driver and front passenger windows and the side windows beside them have solar reflectance greater than 25% and light transmittance less than 28%.

Any material used on these windows to reduce transparency even further or alter the window’s color can cause the driver to get a fine.

How much the fine is for failing to meet tint standards

The regulations say this type of violation will be treated as a nonmoving violation, meaning an offense that is not related to how someone drives but to a regulatory requirement.

Chapter 318 of the statutes says all offenses in this category carry a $30 fine.

The idea uses a common kitchen item and requires no extra products or special tools. It is easy to apply and can be added to a cleaning routine, although it is important to know how to prepare it, what benefits are attributed to it and when the material should be replaced so it does not lose its usefulness.

What is putting aluminum foil on a broom for?

Putting aluminum foil on a broom is a household trick designed to make floor cleaning easier, especially in spaces where hair, lint and small dust particles build up. These bits can be hard to gather with ordinary sweeping, since some stick to the bristles or get scattered again by the broom’s movement.

The technique involves wrapping the lower part of the broom with a sheet of aluminum foil in an effort to improve the collection of this debris. In this way, it is presented as an inexpensive option to complement regular sweeping and reduce the amount of dirt left on surfaces.

How does the aluminum-foil-on-a-broom trick work?

The method relies on the supposed effect of static electricity. By placing aluminum foil around the base or bristles of the broom, the goal is to help attract small dust particles and keep hair and lint from spreading while sweeping.

To try it, follow these steps:

1. Cut a sheet of aluminum foil: use a piece large enough to cover the lower part of the broom.
2. Wrap the base: place the material around the bristle area, making sure it is evenly distributed.
3. Secure the foil: fasten it so it does not come loose or interfere with the broom’s movement.
4. Start sweeping: use the broom normally and see how it works on the surface.

This trick can be tried on different types of floors, such as laminate, tile and vinyl. However, it should not be considered a substitute for a vacuum cleaner or other cleaning methods.

How often should the aluminum foil on the broom be changed with this trick?

There is no fixed schedule for replacing the aluminum foil. The best approach is to check its condition after each use and replace it when it is too wrinkled, dirty, torn or has lost the shape it had when it was put on.

How often it needs to be changed will depend on how much the broom is used, how much dirt is collected and the type of surface being swept. If the material builds up debris or starts to come loose, it is best to remove it and put on a new sheet before using the broom again.

It looks like no other sign, and that distinct shape is precisely how it warns drivers of something important: that a stretch where passing is prohibited is beginning.

What the yellow pennant-shaped traffic sign pointing right means

The sign is part of the warning category, with a yellow background, and marks the start of a no-passing zone. From that point on, the driver may not pass another vehicle, meaning they cannot cross into the opposite lane to get around the car ahead. The ban remains in effect for the entire stretch the sign indicates, until the zone ends.

Why it is important to recognize it and what to do when you see it

Drivers should stay in their lane and not try to pass until the zone ends, no matter how slow the vehicle ahead may be. The advice is to be patient, obey the speed limit and wait until reaching a stretch where passing is allowed.

The end of the zone is usually marked by a sign reading “PASS WITH CARE” on the right side of the road, indicating that passing is allowed again when it is safe.

No-passing zones are marked precisely in places where passing is dangerous: curves, hills or stretches of road without enough visibility to see whether an oncoming car is approaching.

Passing there is one of the most serious causes of head-on crashes. Recognizing the yellow pennant in time and understanding that from there on, you have to stay in your lane, is key to avoiding a maneuver that can end very badly.