The CP12 Notice is among these communications, and the Taxpayer Advocate Service -run by the tax agency- explains what it means and how to act if you receive it.

IRS CP12 Notice: what it means to receive it

According to the official information, this notice is issued when taxpayers filed a tax return with errors that affect the amount of the expected refund.

When this notification is received, the taxpayer may receive a refund different from the one initially estimated or have a refund due when they believed they owed taxes or were not entitled to receive anything.

What should I do if I receive an IRS CP12 Notice?

The instruction in these cases is to compare the notice received with the information provided to the IRS in the tax return and, if you agree, no further action will be required.

On the other hand, if the taxpayer believes the IRS made a mistake, they should contact the agency at the phone number listed in the upper right corner of the notice or reply by mail to the address indicated in the communication.

Those who choose to get in touch must do so within 60 days and are advised to include as much documentation as possible to support their case. After this time, the changes made by the agency cannot be reversed.

Important information for those who receive the IRS CP12 Notice

If you receive this notice, the agency refund should be received within four to six weeks, unless there are other taxes or debts pending.

The agency also indicates that if you want to correct the copy of the return to keep your records in order, the document should not be sent to the agency.

The order, published by the White House, says farmers and truckers have been hit especially hard. It directs the Treasury secretary to postpone certain diesel tax payments and waive related penalties where the law allows.

None of the relief is automatic. The Treasury Department has until Saturday to decide whether it has the legal authority to act, and it still has to issue guidance on who qualifies and when the postponed taxes come due.

Will gas prices go down under Donald Trump’s diesel tax order?

Not directly. The order applies only to diesel fuel, so the federal gas tax and the price of regular gasoline are outside its scope.

Diesel prices aren’t guaranteed to fall either. The order says nothing about prices at the pump, and whether fuel sellers pass any savings on to customers is up to the market.

The order also can’t change state fuel taxes. It tells the White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs to encourage states to adopt matching relief, but each state makes its own decision.

What does Donald Trump’s diesel tax order actually do?

If Treasury confirms its authority, certain federal diesel excise taxes incurred from Oct. 5 through Dec. 31 could be deferred without penalties or interest. That would leave more cash in the hands of businesses that owe the tax for the rest of the year.

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) would also announce that it won’t penalize the use of dyed diesel on highways during the same period. Dyed diesel is normally reserved for farm and other off-road use, and running it on public roads usually brings fines.

The tax is delayed, not canceled. Deferred amounts will still be owed by a date Treasury must set, and the order only directs the agency to explore forgiving them, including through legislation that would need Congress.

The Agriculture Department is tasked with getting enough dyed diesel to high-demand farm areas. Meanwhile, federal highway safety audits and inspections continue under the order.

Flight FZ1073 had left Dubai on Sept. 30 when the co-pilot turned the cockpit’s emergency axe on the captain. Passengers tackled him, and an off-duty crew on board took over. They landed the Boeing 737 MAX and its more than 180 passengers in Saudi Arabia.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the people who stopped the attack averted “a 9/11 disaster.” He also said the co-pilot had been radicalized through Islamist indoctrination.

Flydubai later sent another aircraft to take the passengers to Israel. UAE Attorney General Hamad al-Shamsi has described the incident as an attempted “terrorist act.” He said Oct. 3 that results of the investigation will be made public once it concludes.

What did the Flydubai co-pilot plan to do in Tel Aviv?

The plan relied on the flight looking routine, according to sources cited by Israeli media. Once the captain, Smit Machchhar, was out of the way, the co-pilot would stay on course and be cleared to land at Ben Gurion as usual.

Neither Emirati nor Israeli authorities have commented on these accounts.

Several reports have identified the suspect as Hamam al-Hammami, an Omani citizen who reportedly studied in Australia from 2015 to 2017. Australia has opened its own inquiry into those ties.

UAE investigators were still interrogating him over the weekend and keeping Israeli officials briefed.

How was the Flydubai co-pilot cleared to fly to Tel Aviv?

Israel has opened a security review over the case. Netanyahu has ordered the head of the country’s National Security Council to examine how flights by foreign airlines into Israel are screened.

The case has also exposed a dispute over who should have vetted the crew. Transport Minister Miri Regev said her ministry never received the passenger and crew lists. She said foreign airlines are the responsibility of the Shin Bet, Israel’s domestic security service, and the Mossad, its foreign intelligence agency.

The Shin Bet says that job belongs to Regev’s ministry. Regional officials told The Associated Press that the UAE sent Israel the lists before takeoff. Israeli rules also bar pilots from countries with no formal diplomatic ties to Israel, such as Oman, from flying there at all.

There were earlier warning signs, according to regional officials. Oman Air had pulled him from the cockpit and given him office work after flagging his extremist views. Flydubai’s routine background checks, which the officials said don’t look for radicalization, did not catch it.

The rally added $65 billion to Musk’s net worth, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. SpaceX rose another 0.49% Tuesday to $171.92, its highest close since mid-June and about 27% above its $135 initial public offering price.

Why does Morgan Stanley think SpaceX stock could climb another 75%?

Analyst Adam Jonas reaffirmed his $300 price target, the level he expects the stock to reach, in a note to clients Sunday. He pointed to upcoming AI product releases, Starship progress and new deals to rent out AI computing capacity.

“Adjusted for growth, SpaceX is one of the cheaper ways to play the strong optionality of the Space and Intelligence Economy,” Jonas wrote.

On Oct. 1, a Falcon 9 rocket also carried four astronauts to the International Space Station in 7 hours and 55 minutes. That was the fastest trip there by a U.S. spacecraft.

What makes up Elon Musk’s trillion-dollar net worth?

Almost all of it is stock. Musk’s stakes in SpaceX and Tesla account for more than 98% of his fortune, according to Bloomberg, so his net worth rises and falls with both share prices.

SpaceX is the bigger piece. Musk owns about 4.76 billion SpaceX shares, including 1.3 billion shares of unvested restricted stock, which he can’t sell until they vest.

The SpaceX listing capped a steep climb. Musk was worth about $28 billion in January 2020, when he ranked as the world’s 35th richest person, according to Bloomberg. By the company’s June 12 debut, his fortune had reached $1.11 trillion.

That concentration also explains the swings. Musk’s fortune peaked at $1.32 trillion June 16, according to Bloomberg, then fell below $1 trillion a week later. By Aug. 1, it had dropped to $684 billion as SpaceX shares lost more than half their value.

What is a Real ID

The Real ID is a driver’s license or state identification card that meets a federal security standard. At first glance, it is recognized by a star marked at the top of the card (in some states, with variations: California, for example, uses a golden bear with the star).

It is not a new, separate document: it is the “enhanced” version of the license or ID issued by each state through its DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles).

Since when has it been in effect, and what is it for

The requirement for Real ID took effect on May 7, 2025. From that date, it is necessary to:

• Board flights within the United States (domestic flights).
• Enter certain federal facilities, such as military bases or some government buildings.

For international flights and other procedures outside the country, the passport still applies, not the Real ID.

Which documents does the DMV absolutely require

Requirements may vary by state, but in general, the DMV requests original or certified documents that prove:

• Identity and date of birth: for example, a U.S. birth certificate or a valid passport.
• Social Security number: this can be verified with the Social Security card, a W-2, a pay stub, or a 1099 form.
• Two proofs of address, such as utility bills or a lease agreement.
• Proof of legal status in the country.

It is advisable to check the specific list from the state DMV before going, because each jurisdiction defines the accepted documents.

The MUSVs are part of the Navy’s strategy to expand the use of robotic and autonomous systems as they are platforms that can operate without crew on board and were designed to incorporate different sensors, weapons and other mission payloads according to the needs of each operation.

The decision to move toward production came after a testing phase in which the Navy evaluated the prototypes’ ability to understand the maritime environment, navigate autonomously and carry out extended missions. After obtaining the results, the program moved from the demonstration stage to production.

What are the 30 MUSV autonomous ships?

MUSVs are Medium Unmanned Surface Vessels, that is, medium unmanned surface ships designed to carry out operations without sailors on board and to function as modular platforms.

Among their main characteristics and functions are:

• Autonomous operation: they can navigate without a crew on board and be supervised from control stations.
• Modular design: they can incorporate sensors, weapons and different payloads.
• Different missions: the program includes applications such as anti-submarine warfare, strike operations and intelligence tasks.
• Long endurance at sea: the tests evaluated their ability to carry out extended deployments.
• Autonomous navigation: the prototypes were evaluated to determine whether they could understand the maritime environment and comply with international collision prevention rules.

The Government Accountability Office (GAO) identifies MUSV as a Navy program aimed at developing a family of autonomous systems for various missions.

How much will each MUSV ship cost and who will build them?

The average cost will be US$40 million per unit and production will be divided among three companies:

• Galliano Marine Services: 10 ships
• Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII): 10 ships
• Saronic Technologies: 10 ships

The three companies were selected after taking part in the first phase of testing. Likewise, the contract was carried out through Production Other Transaction Authority (OTA), a mechanism used by the Department of Defense for certain procurement and production agreements.

The Navy also reported that Leidos, PAC MAR and Sea Machines completed their prototype projects, so these companies will receive awards of US$15 million and will be able to participate in future production opportunities within the unmanned systems market in the U.S. Navy.

When will the first MUSV autonomous ships arrive?

The U.S. Navy expects the first units to arrive before the end of fiscal year 2027, since the deadline corresponds to the U.S. fiscal year.

The schedule comes after completing Phase I testing at sea, which made it possible to evaluate the capabilities of the prototypes before moving toward production. In addition, the Navy is already working on a Phase II of integration and testing, aimed at expanding the available operations and evaluating new alternatives for future acquisitions of autonomous systems.

To ensure that this procedure was completed, authorities issue an inspection sticker that is placed on the vehicle and indicates the month through which it is valid.

Driving with an expired sticker can result in fines of up to $100, to which the corresponding surcharges will be added.

New York requires vehicles to renew the safety inspection sticker at least once a year

During safety checks, authorities indicate that the following will be inspected:

• The proper functioning of seat belts, as well as the airbag light, although if it does not come on it is not a reason for rejection.
• The brakes: pads, drum linings, condition of the drum, possible leaks, lines and hoses, parking brake, balance.
• Condition of the steering, front end, suspension, chassis, frame and wheel fasteners.
• Tires: tread depth, overall condition and pressure.
• That the lights are suitable
• Condition of the windshield and the windows
• Operation and presence of windshield wipers
• Operation of the horn
• Location of the mirrors
• Any fuel leak

When the inspection is passed, an inspection sticker is issued for the vehicle that expires on the last day of the month written on it.

“Keep the emissions inspection sticker receipt to prove that your vehicle was inspected,” authorities say.

Fines that apply for not renewing this sticker on time

When the procedure is not completed on time and properly, the following financial penalties may apply:

• Fine of $25 to $50: if the sticker has expired.
• Fine of between $50 and $100: if the sticker has been expired for more than 60 days.
• Fine of between $50 and $100: if there is no inspection sticker.

“A mandatory state surcharge of $88 ($93 in city and village courts) is added to the fine,” the DMV says. In addition, a parked vehicle without the corresponding sticker may receive a parking ticket.

In many cases it will also be necessary to complete an emissions inspection. Details about this check can be found by clicking here.

SSI is a federal program that provides monthly payments to adults and children who have little or no income, few resources and who also meet the requirements related to disability, blindness or age. The amount each beneficiary receives depends on their financial and housing situation.

On what days is SSI paid in October 2026?

The SSA calendar includes two SSI deposits in October 2026:

• Thursday, October 1: payment for October.
• Friday, October 30: payment for November.

Who can receive the SSI payment?

The Supplemental Security Income is intended for people who meet three main conditions. The SSA says that both adults and children may be eligible if they have:

• Little or no income.
• Little or no resources.
• A disability, blindness, or are 65 years old or older.

Eligibility depends on how much money each person earns, their resources, their housing situation, and other circumstances.

In the case of people under 65, a disability must meet certain conditions. According to SSA, it must affect the ability to work for a year or more, cause death or, in the case of children, severely limit daily activities.

How much money does SSI pay in 2026?

The maximum monthly SSI payment in 2026 is USD994 for an individual and USD1,491 for a couple. However, not everyone receives that amount. The amount depends on the factors mentioned previously.

“Your monthly payment depends on your income, your living situation, the things you own and other factors”, the agency explains.

What should be reported if I receive SSI?

The SSA states that beneficiaries must regularly report their wages, other income, resources and changes in their living situation.

The recommendation is to keep the information up to date in order to avoid receiving an incorrect amount. A change that is not reported can affect both the monthly payment and continued eligibility.

The closures are part of the company’s policy for these dates and are intended to let employees spend time with their family and friends.

What days will Olive Garden close in 2026?

According to Olive Garden’s official information , its restaurants will remain closed on these two dates:

• Thursday, November 26: Thanksgiving Day.
• Friday, December 25: Christmas.

In this way, those planning to visit any of the chain’s restaurants during the holidays should keep these two closures in mind.

Olive Garden clarifies that hours during the holidays may vary in Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Guam and its international locations, so in these cases it is advisable to check directly with the restaurant.

What will happen the day before Thanksgiving and Christmas?

Restaurants may close earlier both the day before Thanksgiving and on Christmas Eve, although this does not necessarily happen at all locations.

According to Olive Garden, the decision depends on the number of customers each restaurant has and is left to its management team.

For this reason, the company recommends contacting the restaurant directly to find out the expected closing time for Wednesday, November 25 and Thursday, December 24.

Outside of these dates, opening hours may vary by location, so customers can check in advance the relevant information for the restaurant they plan to visit.

The adjustment is not uniform across the country: there is one state and several territories where the time does not change.

The time changes across the country: the day and time when clocks must be adjusted

Daylight Saving Time ends on Sunday, November 1, 2026 at 2:00 a.m., local time. At that moment, the clocks are set back one hour and return to 1:00.

In practice, you “gain” one hour of sleep that night. The change is designed to take place in the early morning, when most people are asleep, so as to alter daily life as little as possible.

Most phones, computers and smartwatches automatically adjust the time if the automatic date and time setting is enabled; wall clocks, oven clocks or car clocks usually require manual adjustment.

Which states do not change their clocks?

Not all of the United States changes the time. They remain on standard time year-round, without making the change:

• Hawaii, which keeps Hawaii-Aleutian standard time throughout the year.
• Arizona, with one internal exception: the Navajo Nation, in the northeast of the state, does observe Daylight Saving Time.

This is possible because, although the time change is regulated at the federal level by the Uniform Time Act of 1966 (Uniform Time Act), each state has the authority to be exempt through its own legislation and remain on standard time at all times.

Until when standard time applies

Standard time will remain in effect during the fall and winter. The next change will be in spring 2027: on Sunday, March 14, 2027 at 2:00, the clocks will move forward one hour again (they will jump directly to 3:00), and Daylight Saving Time will begin once more.

The goal is to offer free recreational activities for the whole family and create gathering spaces for neighbors, with decorations, music, games, and other community activities.

Mamdani announces the return of Trick-or-Streets: what is it?

Trick-or-Streets is a program organized by the Department of Transportation of New York City (DOT). During October, it turns open streets, plazas, and other public spaces into pedestrian zones dedicated to Halloween- and fall-related activities.

This will be the fifth consecutive year that the initiative is being held. The proposal seeks to expand pedestrian spaces during the Halloween season and offer free activities in different parts of the city. The activities vary by borough.

The activities proposed by borough: when and where will they be?

“We are bringing free fun for the whole family to every corner of New York City, and there is something for everyone,” Mamdani announced.

Manhattan

Two activities are scheduled in this borough:

• Hallowscream Fright Walk: Friday, October 16, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
• Fall Festival and Fright Walk: Saturday, October 17, from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Both events will take place at the J. Hood Wright Recreation Center and Park. Pre-registration is required to participate.

In case of rain, the Fright Walk will be held indoors, while the Fall Festival may be rescheduled.

Bronx

In this borough, the Williamsbridge Fall Festival will take place on Saturday, October 17, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Williamsbridge Oval Recreation Center.

The event is designed for families and will include pumpkin decorating, fall-themed crafts, fair games, themed face painting, contests, and a costumed dog parade.

Registration is not required. In case of rain, the activity will be rescheduled for October 24.

Staten Island

On Staten Island, the Ocean Breeze Fall Festival will take place on Saturday, October 24, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Ocean Breeze Sports Complex.

Families will be able to enjoy crafts, games, decorating activities, music with a live DJ, and other attractions.

The Ocean Breeze Youth Cross Country Spooktacular will also be held, a seasonal competition for young athletes between 7 and 17 years old.

Registration is not required. In case of rain, the activities will be moved indoors.

Brooklyn

In Brooklyn, the Haunted House and Halloween Gala will take place on Friday, October 30, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Shirley Chisholm Recreation Center.

The day will include crafts, games, pumpkin decorating, costume contests, and dancing.

The activity is part of HalloWeek, a weeklong celebration that includes other offerings, such as karaoke, poolside movies, silent disco, and additional programming.

Registration is not required. In case of rain, the Halloween Gala will be moved indoors.

Queens

In Queens, the Mad Monster Lab Haunted House and the Fall Festival will take place, both on Friday, October 30, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Bowne Park sports pavilion.

There will be games, art activities, food and snacks, Halloween-themed music, and a haunted maze.

Registration is not required. In case of rain, the haunted house will go on as usual, while the Fall Festival will be rescheduled for November 1.

The update added 14 new conditions to the Compassionate Allowances (CAL) program. With these additions, the list now totals 314 medical conditions.

Social Security: Who can access the accelerated process?

Compassionate Allowances make it possible to quickly identify applications from people who suffer from serious diseases and medical conditions that meet the standards established to receive disability benefits.

When a person files an application, the SSA reviews their medical records to determine whether they meet the requirements.

If their condition is on the CAL list, the system can identify the case and speed up its processing.

In some cases, the agency can also obtain medical records electronically, which allows the evaluation to move forward more quickly.

According to the SSA, since this initiative began, more than 1.2 million people with severe disabilities have been approved through this accelerated process.

What are the new conditions included by Social Security?

The SSA added 14 new medical conditions to the Compassionate Allowances list:

• Adenylosuccinate lyase deficiency, neonatal form and type 1.
• Aicardi syndrome.
• Baraitser-Winter syndrome.
• Beare-Stevenson cutis gyrata syndrome.
• Bohring-Opitz syndrome.
• Genetic disorders related to the CASK gene.
• Hepatosplenic T-cell lymphoma.
• Lafora disease.
• Malignant migrating partial seizures of infancy (MMPSI).
• OPHN1 syndrome.
• Primary cardiac sarcoma.
• Primary intracranial malignant melanoma.
• Uveal melanoma with metastasis.
• Warburg microcephaly syndrome.

These additions took effect on August 10, 2026, and were officially announced by the Social Security Administration the following day.

With the update, the program has 314 conditions that can be identified for expedited processing.

How do you apply for disability benefits?

People who want to access the benefits must file an application for disability benefits with the Social Security Administration.

During the process, the agency reviews medical records to determine whether the applicant meets the requirements. When it detects that the condition is part of the CAL list, the application receives an expedited procedure.

This does not mean there is a different financial benefit for these diseases, but rather that the mechanism seeks to speed up the review of the application for people who suffer from certain serious medical conditions.

In these cases, renewal cannot be done through the remote mechanisms available to other drivers. The person must appear at an office and once again prove their identity with one of the documents accepted by Florida law.

Florida driver’s license: Who must renew it in person?

Section 322.18 of the 2026 Florida Statutes establishes that drivers who have proved their identity using the documents contemplated in subsections 7 or 8 of section 322.08 may only renew their driver’s license in person.

• The first category corresponds to those who used a valid Employment Authorization Document issued by the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
• The second includes those who proved a nonimmigrant classification through documentation accepted by the DHS and specified in state law.

The rule differentiates these cases from those who proved their identity using a valid Green Card.

After initially presenting that documentation, the law provides an exemption from the obligation to renew or request a duplicate in person, except in certain cases.

What documents must be presented to renew the license?

Those within the covered categories must appear in person and provide again an identification document authorized by section 322.08.

Among the documentation covered by the law is the valid Employment Authorization Document issued by DHS.

To prove a nonimmigrant classification, the regulations list different documents that may be used, depending on each applicant’s situation. Among them are:

• Hearing notice issued by an immigration court.
• Notice from the Board of Immigration Appeals recognizing a pending appeal.
• Notice of approval of an adjustment of status application issued by USCIS.
• Official documentation confirming the filing of an application for asylum, refugee status, or another type of protection.
• Order from an immigration judge or officer granting protection that authorizes the person to live and work in the country.
• Certain evidence of a pending adjustment of status application.
• Or a valid foreign passport accompanied by the corresponding federal documentation proving lawful presence.

The law also allows the department to request DHS documentation to verify that the person maintains, or is trying to maintain, continuous lawful presence.

How long does the license last in these cases?

The duration is also different from the general rule for other Florida driver’s licenses.

When identity was proved using an employment authorization card or the nonimmigrant classification documentation covered by law, the license expires one year after issuance or on the expiration date indicated in the DHS documents, whichever comes first.

It is also established that a license or temporary permit issued on the basis of these documentary categories may not remain valid beyond the expiration date of the document presented or one year.

It is an Insignia F50 Series LED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV, which appears in the store with a savings of US$140, compared with a comparable price of US$299.99.

Best Buy sells a 50-inch 4K Smart TV for US$159

The TV model on promotion is NS-50F501NA26. According to the information published on Best Buy’s official page, it has an LED screen and a 4K Ultra HD 2160p resolution.

The system also includes HDR10, a technology that improves the level of detail in colors and image contrast.

In addition, it works with Fire TV, so it allows access to different streaming applications on the television.

Another of its features is integration with Amazon Alexa, which allows voice control functions to be used.

The main features of the Smart TV include:

• 50-inch LED screen.
• 4K Ultra HD (2160p) resolution.
• Compatibility with HDR10.
• Fire TV system.
• Integrated Amazon Alexa.
• Access to streaming applications and platforms.

How long does the Best Buy deal last?

The store identifies the promotion as a “Techtober Deal”. However, the posting for the 50-inch model does not specify an exact end date for the discount.

Therefore, those who want to take advantage of the price will need to check availability and the updated price directly at Best Buy, since the terms of the promotion may change.

The payment is not a new Social Security benefit, even though many recipients will see the money deposited through the Social Security Administration. Eligible beneficiaries who receive their Medicare premiums through Social Security may therefore notice an unexpected $90 payment in their accounts this month.

The payment is funded through the Medicare Improvement Fund, which Congress established in 2008. The administration says eligible beneficiaries will receive the $90 automatically, either through direct deposit or by check.

Trump announced a one-time $90 payment for Medicare beneficiaries

The White House announced a one-time $90 payment for more than 20 million eligible Medicare beneficiaries to help offset their Medicare Part B premiums. The payment comes from the Medicare Improvement Fund, which was created by Congress in 2008.

Eligible beneficiaries will receive the payment automatically in October 2026. Most will receive the $90 through direct deposit, while those without direct deposit will receive a check mailed to the address registered with Medicare.

Who is eligible for the $90 Medicare payment?

The one-time payment is available to 20.8 million people enrolled in Original Medicare Part B who live in the United States. Beneficiaries whose Medicare premiums are already covered by Medicaid are not eligible, nor are those who pay an Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA).

People enrolled in Medicare Advantage will also not receive the payment. The $90 rebate is specifically tied to Medicare Part B under Original Medicare, which covers services such as doctor visits, outpatient care, and other medically necessary services.

There is no application or additional registration required for eligible beneficiaries. The payment is being issued automatically based on the beneficiary’s Medicare and payment information.

How will Medicare beneficiaries receive the $90 payment?

Most eligible beneficiaries will receive the $90 payment by direct deposit. CMS says the majority of payments are scheduled to arrive on or around October 8, 2026, while people without direct deposit will receive a paper check from the U.S. Department of the Treasury later in October.

The payment will generally appear through the same financial channels used for other federal benefits. Because most eligible beneficiaries receive the rebate through a direct deposit from the Social Security Administration, some recipients may see the $90 in an account they normally associate with their Social Security payments.

This procedure is done additionally, since Original Medicare , made up of Parts A and B, generally does not include prescription drug coverage. To access this benefit, enrollees can sign up for a Part D plan or choose certain Medicare Advantage plans that include drug coverage.

These are the documents needed to apply for Medicare Part D Extra Help

According to the SSA, people who have Medicare can apply for Extra Help, a program aimed at reducing the costs of prescription drug coverage.

To apply, the agency recommends gathering financial information from both the applicant and their spouse, if applicable. Among the documents mentioned are

• Bank statements and tax returns.
• Individual Retirement Account (IRA) or 401(k) account balances.
• Statements or proof corresponding to:
• • Pensions
  • Veteran benefits
  • Annuities
  • Railroad Retirement Board benefits

These documents make it possible to prove the income and financial resources that may be considered when determining whether a person meets the requirements to receive Extra Help.

How does Medicare work and what is Part D?

Original Medicare is made up of Part A, which corresponds to hospital insurance, and Part B, which covers medical services and outpatient care.

Among other services, these parts may cover hospital stays, doctor visits, diagnostic tests, and certain preventive services.

Medicare also clarifies that beneficiaries pay certain costs as they receive services and that they must be lawfully present in the United States for the program to cover the services corresponding to Parts A and B.

However, Original Medicare does not cover most prescription drugs that a person buys to take at home. For this type of expense there is Part D, specifically intended to help pay for brand-name and generic prescription drugs.

Part D is obtained through private companies approved by Medicare. The program recommends considering enrollment even if the person is not currently taking prescription drugs, since signing up outside the corresponding period may result in a late enrollment penalty.

Another option is Medicare Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage, which allows people to receive Medicare benefits through private plans approved by the program. These plans include coverage for Parts A and B and, in many cases, also include prescription drug coverage and additional benefits.

Final costs vary depending on factors such as the applicant’s age, class of license, place of residence, and type of document. The DMV details everything through its official website.

How is the cost of a driver’s license calculated?

When the first driver’s license is processed in New York, the DMV calculates the amount taking into account the following points:

• The person’s age at the time of applying.
• The class of license: D or DJ, E, M or MJ.
• The county of residence, because those who live within the Metropolitan Commuter Transportation District (MCTD) pay an additional fee.
• The type of document chosen: Standard, REAL ID or Enhanced.

The MCTD charges $1 for every six months of validity of the permit or license, and it applies to those who live in Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, Staten Island, Dutchess, Nassau, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Suffolk and Westchester.

Choosing an Enhanced driver’s license adds $30 to the base cost.

How much does it cost to process a driver’s license in New York?

For a common Class D or DJ license, the value depends on age:

In other classes, the price is different. For those over 21, Class E costs between $91.25 and $97.50 without MCTD, while a Class M or MJ motorcycle license costs between $68.75 and $72.50.

These are the amounts corresponding to the regular fees.

What is the difference between document types?

All three versions allow driving but do not have the same scope as identification, according to the DMV:

• Standard: works as a driver’s license and state ID, but not for federal purposes, commercial flights, or entry into national government buildings.
• REAL ID: meets federal identification standards, so it can be used for domestic flights and to enter federal facilities. It has no additional cost over the base fees.
• Enhanced: also meets REAL ID requirements and additionally allows U.S. citizens to re-enter the country by land or sea from Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean countries, although it does not replace a passport for international travel. It adds an additional fee of $30.

What requirements must be met to apply for a driver’s license, depending on the type?

Required documents depend on the document being processed:

Standard License

The applicant must present:

• Proof of date of birth.
• Proof of residence in New York.
• Documents totaling six points as proof of name and identity.

This version does not require proof of citizenship or legal immigration status.

REAL ID

Those applying for a license that meets the REAL ID requirement must present:

• Proof of Social Security Number or ineligibility to have one.
• Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal status.
• Two proofs of residence in New York.
• Documents totaling six points to prove name and identity.
• Visit to the DMV to take a new photograph.

Enhanced License

To apply for this document, the requirements are similar:

• Proof of Social Security.
• Proof of U.S. citizenship.
• Two proofs of residence in New York.
• Documents totaling six points to prove name and identity.

Value assigned to each document, according to the DMV

Each one has an assigned value, and none by itself reaches the six points needed:

• 4-point documents:
• • Valid foreign passport.
  • Consular ID card.
  • Driver’s license from another country or state.
• 2-point documents:
• • School or university photo ID.
  • Employment or government agency records and ID cards.
• 1-point documents:
• • Municipal ID card.
  • Utility bills in the applicant’s name.
  • Tax documents or pay stubs.

Although it may seem like a simple whim, this behavior has an explanation. Veterinarians and feline behavior specialists maintain that cats usually feel more comfortable with people who allow them to keep control of the interaction and respect their timing.

The reason cats seek out the person who ignores them

Unlike other domestic animals, cats do not usually respond well when they feel that someone is invading their space. That is why they often prefer to approach on their own initiative rather than receive constant attention.

In a room full of people, the feline analyzes different signals before deciding whom to interact with. Body posture, the way of moving, and even the direction of the gaze can influence that decision.

One of the most important factors is eye contact. A fixed and persistent stare can be interpreted by the cat as a signal of pressure or even of challenge. In contrast, a person who looks away and remains relaxed conveys a greater sense of safety.

Movements also play a key role. Specialists explain that slow and predictable movements build trust, while abrupt or insistent gestures can lead the animal to prefer to keep its distance.

The “allergic person effect” that surprises owners

Experts even describe a phenomenon known as the “allergic person effect”. It is that situation in which the person who avoids touching the cat, does not try to call it, or simply ignores it, ends up becoming, almost unintentionally, the center of its attention.

The explanation is simple: by not feeling pressured, the feline can approach when it wants and explore the interaction under its own rules. That freedom is much more attractive than forced contact.

This does not mean that cats prefer people who do not want them, but rather that they especially value people who respect their space and allow them to decide when to begin the bond.

That is why, if a cat seems to always choose the one who shows the least interest, it is probably not being indifferent to the rest. It is simply responding to its nature, which prioritizes calm, predictability, and the ability to control every approach.

Specialists agree that, to earn a cat’s trust, the best thing is usually to do exactly the opposite of what many people imagine: give it time, avoid invading its space, and allow it to be the one to take the first step. Often, that patience ends up being the best way to win its trust.

This is the story of Shay Taylor-Allen, a 32-year-old woman that was born in Yale New Haven Hospital in 1993 and worked as a janitor there for about a decade, starting at age 18 in 2011. More than a decade later, she is returning as a doctor at the same hospital that saw her birth and growth.

In March of this year, she announced on her social media that she would complete her anesthesiology residency at Yale. The video of the moment, where she screams “I’m going to Yale” while jumping up and down, went viral on her TikTok account. “I still can’t believe it,” she added.

From janitor to medical student

Taylor-Allen said she had little guidance at school, and since no one in her family had gone to college, she wasn’t sure how to approach applying. So she applied for a few positions at Yale New Haven Hospital and landed the job as a janitor.

Her path changed when her mother developed serious breathing problems after a fire at the family home. Doctors struggled to find the cause, until Taylor-Allen emailed the hospital’s then-CEO, whose office she used to clean. The executive arranged new appointments, and her mother was finally diagnosed.

“Let me become that doctor that I felt like should have helped my mom,” she recalled thinking in an interview with CNBC Make It.

@shaytaylorallen #1 match and so happy to come back not as a janitor this time but as a doctor! #matchday #medstudent #doctorsoftiktok ♬ 7 years latch - favsoundds

The student debt of more than $590.000 that she owes

With the help of a mentor, Yale assistant professor Gena Foster, she reworked her application and was admitted to Howard in 2021. The effort came at a cost: between her undergraduate, master’s, and medical degrees, she has accumulated more than $590,000 in student debt.

She and her husband are betting that the financial strain of living on a combined $7,500 a month will have been worth getting Taylor-Allen to this new chapter, one in which she plans to grow into her new career, repay her debts and begin saving for her family’s future.

Her $88,000 starting salary as an anesthesiology resident at Yale combined with her husband’s VA benefits puts their household income at roughly $150,000 per year now.

The moment she went viral for getting into Yale New Haven Hospital

The full-circle moment has felt nothing short of “surreal.” The most important moment came when she received her new employee ID that says “doctor.”

“I was in these same hallways on break, studying as much as I [could], getting ready for exams, stressing out that I might not even make it to medical school,” she says. “I’m coming back as a different person.”

She hopes her experience will help her build a bridge between doctors and service workers, and inspire others. “If you work hard, you can get to where you want to be. I think I’m proof of that,” she told The Washington Post.

The discovery was made by researchers from the Harvard & Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics and the University of Oregon, using the MeerKAT radio telescope in South Africa. The work was published on arXiv and is a preliminary study, pending peer review.

How long the observation lasted and what the experts detected

During four sessions carried out between 2025 and 2026, the team recorded a persistent emission and brief radio bursts at frequencies between 0.85 and 3.5 gigahertz. The waves showed strong circular polarization, a characteristic associated with auroral emissions and strong magnetic fields.

The authors noted that, although these bursts are observed on planets in the Solar System and in some ultracool dwarfs, no radio detection had previously been located unambiguously on an extrasolar planet and not on its host star.

How they confirmed the origin: what was the biggest challenge

The challenge was to rule out that the emissions came from the star Beta Pictoris. To do this, the astronomers used distant quasars as references in the sky, which made it possible to locate the source next to the planet and separate it from the star.

The data point to a natural emission generated in the planet’s magnetosphere. They are not related to extraterrestrial life or artificial communications.

A magnetic field stronger than Earth’s

The proposed explanation is electron cyclotron maser instability (ECMI), a mechanism by which charged particles release radio waves as they move within a magnetic field. It is related to the auroras of Earth and Jupiter.

Based on the signal frequency, the study estimates a field of at least 1.25 kilogauss (more than 1,000 gauss) in the origin area of one of the bursts. Earth’s field is around half a gauss at the surface. The researchers argue that this would be the first direct measurement of the magnetic field of an exoplanet.

Beta Pictoris b data

• Discovery: 2008.
• Mass: close to ten times that of Jupiter.
• Estimated radius: 1.65 times that of Jupiter.
• Age of the system: just a few tens of millions of years.
• Rotation: one turn on its axis every eight or nine hours.

The team identified another seven giant exoplanets, in five nearby systems, as possible candidates for this technique. According to their estimates, radio telescopes would need between five and seven times more sensitivity to capture similar signals.

Trump made the remark at a campaign rally in Grand Island, Nebraska, while discussing the ongoing war the United States and Israel launched against Iran on Feb. 28. “Let them take out Los Angeles, let them take out San Diego,” he said. Both cities host major military installations, including Naval Base San Diego and Los Angeles Air Force Base.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom called the remark “deranged and dangerous.” He ordered the State Threat Assessment Center, the state agency that tracks security risks, to watch for foreign actors who might take it as an invitation.

White House communications director Steven Cheung said Trump meant U.S. cities would have been at risk had a nuclear-armed Iran not been stopped.

Can Iran’s missiles strike California?

Iran’s ballistic missiles, rockets that arc high above the atmosphere before falling on a target, can reach U.S. bases in the Middle East, Israel and parts of Europe. After the 2015 nuclear deal with world powers, Iran voluntarily set itself a range limit of about 1,240 miles, far short of the U.S. West Coast.

Reaching California would take an intercontinental ballistic missile, or ICBM, a long-range weapon built to cross oceans. A 2025 report by the Defense Intelligence Agency, the Pentagon’s military intelligence arm, found Iran had none. It estimated Iran could field up to 60 ICBMs by 2035, but only if it made a deliberate push to build them.

Iran has said it wants more reach. On Sunday, army spokesman Brig. Gen. Mohammad Akraminia told Iran’s Fars News Agency, “During the war, we concluded that we definitely have to increase the range of our missiles, and we are currently carrying out this task.”

He tied the decision to U.S. forces operating farther from Iran’s coast, up to about 620 miles (1,000 kilometers) away.

Classified U.S. intelligence assessments from early May 2026 found Iran kept about 70% of its prewar missile stockpile and most of its mobile launchers, the trucks that carry and fire missiles, according to multiple news reports. Those weapons are built for regional targets, and the White House has disputed the portrayal.

On the nuclear side, International Atomic Energy Agency Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said March 2, in the war’s first days, that the U.N. nuclear watchdog saw no structured program to build nuclear weapons in Iran.

What was the FBI warning about an Iran drone attack on California?

An FBI alert to police, made public in March, warned of an unverified tip. It said Iran allegedly wanted to launch drones, unmanned aircraft that can carry explosives, from a ship off the U.S. coast at unspecified California targets if the United States attacked Iran. The bureau said it had no details on timing, targets or perpetrators.

Then White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said then that no such threat existed. Newsom said the state saw no imminent danger but kept drones a priority in its emergency planning.

Could Iran target California with cyberattacks?

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), the federal office that protects U.S. computer networks, says hackers linked to Iran’s government routinely target poorly secured U.S. systems. Its warnings cover the whole country, not California specifically.

CISA says groups affiliated with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, a branch of the country’s armed forces, have targeted industrial control devices, the small computers that run machinery.

In that sense, some traditional practices incorporate everyday elements such as salt and vinegar, which are attributed the ability to help renew and balance energies.

One of them consists of bathing with these two ingredients, a custom to which different benefits are attributed and that can be incorporated as part of a relaxation routine.

As Gustavo Antunez, a Feng Shui master with more than 30 years of experience, explains, negative energies that accumulate in the body can generate tiredness and feelings of sadness. He also maintains that these dense energies can manifest as a feeling of exhaustion or heaviness without an apparent cause.

That is why the expert recommends paying attention to these signs and shares different techniques that, within Feng Shui, are used to carry out an energetic cleansing. Among them is the bath with salt and vinegar, one of the simplest alternatives to put into practice at home.

What bathing with vinegar and salt is for, according to Feng Shui

According to Feng Shui, purifying baths help eliminate accumulated negative energies and promote a sense of relaxation and well-being. The idea is to create a moment of calm that allows the mind to be cleared and balance to be regained.

To do it, orange or lemon essences can be used, to which a relaxing and cleansing effect is attributed. There is also a simpler alternative that consists of preparing a bath with two easy-to-find ingredients: vinegar and salt.

Other techniques the expert recommends for cleansing negative energies

In addition to the bath with salt and vinegar, Gustavo Antunez shares other practices that, within this tradition, are used to renew energies and generate a greater sense of balance.

1- Incense

Incense is one of the traditional practices used to purify environments. According to the expert, lighting it and focusing on its aroma can help create a moment of relaxation and clear the mind.

2- Rue

Rue is also used in some energy-cleansing practices. You can take a branch and pass it over different areas of the body, such as the head, stomach, and the area between the navel and the heart. Once the ritual is finished, the branch is discarded.

3- Crystals

Within these practices, crystals are also considered elements that can contribute to energy cleansing.

Antunez mentions different types of quartz and assigns them different meanings: rose quartz is associated with calm and inner peace; green quartz, with health and healing energy; crystal quartz, with purity and calm; amethyst, with the transformation of energy; and tourmaline, with cleansing and connection to the earth.

4- Walking barefoot

Another recommendation is to take off your shoes when you get home and walk barefoot. According to this belief, contact between the feet and the ground allows the energies accumulated during the day to be released and creates a sense of connection with the space.

5- Using a pentacle

The pentacle is presented as a talisman of protection and energy cleansing. Within this tradition, it is considered a symbol capable of keeping negative influences away and promoting well-being.

Within Feng Shui, these practices are part of different ways of seeking balance and renewing personal and home energy. Although each has a particular meaning, they all aim to generate a moment of calm and well-being in the daily routine.

The Treasury Department announced on October 1 that automatic enrollment had been completed. As a result, every eligible child under 18 with a valid Social Security number now has a Trump Account ready to be claimed.

The program was created as a tax-advantaged investment vehicle for children and is intended to give families another way to build savings over the long term. Once an account is claimed, parents and guardians can manage it and allow eligible relatives, friends and employers to contribute.

The step parents must take to claim the account

Automatic enrollment does not mean the account is automatically under a parent’s control. A parent or guardian must claim the child’s Trump Account through the official Trump Accounts app.

The process requires the adult to verify their identity, confirm their relationship to the child, review the child’s information and accept the applicable account terms.

That distinction matters because a child may already have an account even if the family has not completed the claiming process. Until a parent or guardian claims it, they cannot manage the account or arrange contributions through it.

The Treasury Department also says that an eligible child’s account must be claimed in order to receive the program’s one-time $1,000 Treasury contribution.

Who qualifies for the $1,000 contribution

The $1,000 government contribution is not available to every child included in the automatic enrollment of more than 60 million minors.

The federal contribution is part of a specific pilot program for eligible children who are U.S. citizens born between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2028, provided they meet the other requirements, including having a valid Social Security number.

That means parents should not assume that every automatically created account will receive $1,000. The seed contribution is limited to children who meet the program’s eligibility rules.

Trump Accounts are designed for long-term investing rather than immediate household expenses. Parents, relatives, friends, employers and certain organizations can contribute to an account, subject to the program’s contribution rules. The general annual contribution limit is currently $5,000 per child.

The funds are intended to remain invested and grow over time. The official Trump Accounts website says the money is automatically invested in American companies through the program’s investment options.

Once a child turns 18, control of the account passes to the beneficiary, with traditional IRA rules generally applying after that point.

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

How to make a windshield cleaning solution

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

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

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

The trick to avoiding streaks

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

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

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

Which products should you avoid?

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

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

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

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) organizes these categories according to the different available paths to apply for the Green Card, since each one sets specific requirements and conditions.

Eligibility categories for the Green Card

Because not all people can apply under the same conditions or submit the same form, USCIS groups 8 general categories that encompass more specific subcategories:

• Permanent resident card through family.
• Permanent resident card through employment.
• Permanent resident card as a “special immigrant”.
• Permanent resident card through refugee or asylee status.
• Permanent resident card for victims of human trafficking and crimes.
• Permanent resident card for victims of abuse.
• Permanent resident card through other categories.
• Permanent resident card through the Registry

To consult the complete list with categories and subcategories, click here.

Who can access the Green Card through Work?

Those who qualify to apply for permanent residence through work must be able to fit within one of the employment categories established by USCIS.

Among the main paths are the preference categories, EB-1, EB-2, and EB-3, intended for different workers and professionals, and the EB-5 category, which is aimed at foreign investors.

“Preference” immigrants: the EB-1, EB-2, and EB-3 categories

USCIS divides immigrant workers into different preference categories according to their training, experience, and professional characteristics.

Those who fit into the EB-1 category are considered first-preference immigrant workers and may include:

• People with extraordinary ability in science, arts, education, business, or sports.
• Outstanding professors and researchers.
• Certain managers or executives of multinational companies.

Those who fit into the EB-2 category, considered second-preference workers, are:

• Professionals who have an advanced academic degree or its equivalent.
• People who demonstrate exceptional ability in the sciences, arts, or business.

Within this category, there is also the possibility of applying for a National Interest Waiver (NIW). This removes the usual requirement of having a job offer and labor certification if it is shown that your activity meets the required conditions to benefit the United States.

The EB-3 category, or third preference, includes:

• Skilled workers: whose positions require at least two years of training or experience.
• Professionals: whose jobs require, at minimum, a university degree.
• Other workers: for positions that require less than two years of training or experience.

Foreign investors: everything about the EB-5 category

The EB-5 category is intended for foreign investors who invest capital of legal origin in a new commercial enterprise in the United States.

To qualify, the minimum required investment for the corresponding project must be made, and it must be demonstrated that the company will create or preserve at least 10 permanent full-time jobs for qualified U.S. workers.

According to the official IRS website, “you can claim the credits and deductions when you file your tax return to reduce your taxes”.

How do IRS tax deductions work?

While tax credits reduce the amount of taxes a taxpayer must pay, and some can even be refundable, deductions reduce the portion of income that is subject to tax. In this way, they can lower the final amount of taxes owed.

The difference lies in what is reduced: while credits directly affect the tax amount, deductions reduce the amount of income on which taxes are calculated.

How and why calculate the tax deduction?

Choosing correctly between these types of deductions can change the amount of income that remains subject to tax. For this reason, it is generally advisable to compare the standard deduction with the total of itemized deductions to determine which allows for a greater reduction.

To find out how much standard deduction applies, the IRS offers the Interactive Tax Assistant (ITA), a tool that answers questions and guides the taxpayer according to their particular situation.

To use it, these steps must be followed:

1. Go to the assistant “How much is my standard deduction?”.
2. Select the “Begin” button.
3. Provide information such as filing status and the taxpayer’s date of birth and, if applicable, their spouse’s.
4. Complete the requested information on income and other tax data.
5. Answer the questions presented by the tool according to the personal situation.
6. At the end, the system indicates the amount of the standard deduction that could apply based on the information provided.

What types of deductions does the IRS have and who is eligible?

The IRS distinguishes between the standard deduction and itemized deductions. Although both allow taxable income to be reduced, they work differently.

The standard deduction is a specific dollar amount that is subtracted from taxable income. This amount is adjusted periodically for inflation and may vary depending on factors such as filing status, age, and other circumstances.

There is also an additional standard deduction for people who are 65 or older at the end of the tax year and for those who are blind.

Itemized deductions, for their part, allow certain expenses that meet the IRS requirements to be added, such as:

• Eligible medical and dental expenses.
• Certain mortgage interest.
• Certain state and local taxes.
• Qualified charitable contributions.

In addition, for tax year 2025, the IRS added an enhanced additional deduction for certain people age 65 or older, subject to specific requirements and limits.

Requirements to qualify for a standard deduction

In general, to claim the standard deduction, the following conditions must be taken into account:

• File as an individual under an allowed filing status
• Do not claim itemized deductions.
• If another taxpayer can claim the person as a dependent, a standard deduction may still apply, although the amount is subject to special limits.

Who should itemize their deductions?

Itemizing deductions may be convenient when the sum of all deductible expenses exceeds the amount of the standard deduction to which the taxpayer is entitled.

In cases where a person cannot use the standard deduction, it may also be necessary to resort to itemized deductions, provided they have expenses that meet IRS requirements.

Conversely, if the standard deduction is higher than the total of expenses that could be itemized, using it usually allows a greater reduction in taxable income and simplifies filing the return.

The Balancing Face Wash also contains other ingredients such as citric acid, aloe vera, witch hazel, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin, according to the package description. The formula is presented as a cleanser that gently exfoliates the surface of the skin and helps cleanse clogged pores.

The product is available in Dollar Tree stores for only US$1.25. Availability and selection may vary by location and shopping season.

What is the facial cleanser sold by Dollar Tree like?

The product is called Skin Nutrition Botanicals Tea Oil and Salicylic Acid Face Wash and comes in a 4oz size. According to the package description, the cleanser is formulated with:

• Tea tree oil (Tea Tree)
• Salicylic acid
• Citric acid
• Aloe vera
• Witch hazel
• Hyaluronic acid
• Glycerin

The skincare product states that the formula is designed to gently exfoliate the surface of the skin, soften small irregularities, and help cleanse clogged pores.

What is the price of the facial cleanser sold by Dollar Tree?

The Skin Nutrition Botanicals Tea Tree Oil and Salicylic Acid Balancing Face Wash is sold for only US$1.25 at Dollar Tree.

What are Dollar Tree’s inquiry channels?

Customers who have questions about products, stores, or purchases can contact Dollar Tree through the customer service channels available on its official website, where the company has an online contact form to send questions and comments.

In addition, store and product information can be consulted through the official Dollar Tree app, which allows you to select a store, browse products, and use a barcode scanner to access information and prices.

For general inquiries to the company, Dollar Tree lists the phone number on its corporate contact page: 757-321-5000.

The number is the credit score, and for someone just arriving in the country, understanding it and starting to build it as soon as possible makes a big difference.

What is the credit score?

The credit score is a number that summarizes a person’s financial behavior and tells banks and lenders how “risky” it is to lend them money. The most widely used model is the FICO Score, which ranges from 300 to 850: the higher, the better.

That score influences very concrete day-to-day decisions: approval for credit cards, car loans, renting a home, mortgages, and even the interest rate you are charged.

How the score is interpreted

As a general reference, the FICO Score ranges are usually read as follows:

• 300 to 579: poor (difficult to access credit or with very high rates).
• 580 to 669: fair (limited options).
• 670 to 739: good (acceptable for most products).
• 740 to 799: very good (better rates and conditions).
• 800 to 850: exceptional (the lowest perceived risk).

What factors make up the FICO Score

The score does not come from a single piece of data. According to FICO, the model weighs five factors with different weights:

• Payment history (35%): whether you paid your bills on time. It is the most influential factor.
• Amounts owed / credit utilization (30%): how much of the available limit you are using; it is advisable to keep it low.
• Length of credit history (15%): how long your accounts have been open.
• New credit (10%): how many new accounts you opened or applied for in a short time.
• Credit mix (10%): the variety of products you manage (cards, loans, etc.).

How to build credit from scratch

For someone starting without a history, the usual path is:

1. Open a bank account as the basis for the rest of the procedures.
2. Get a secured credit card, which works with a security deposit and is designed precisely for those who do not have a history.
3. Use it sparingly and keep usage low relative to the limit.
4. Always pay on time and, if possible, the full statement balance.
5. Review the credit report regularly to spot errors.

Another common route is to become an authorized user on a family member’s card with a good history, which can help start building a score.

Is a Social Security number needed to build credit?

Not necessarily. You can start building credit with an ITIN (the tax identification number for those without Social Security), although not all institutions accept it for all their products. The key is to look for banks or credit unions that work with ITINs and that report activity to credit bureaus.

The Tremont Avenue Busway began operating on September 19. In this regard, the corridor was designed to increase speed and service reliability, as well as to incorporate changes aimed at improving the safety of pedestrians and cyclists.

The project mainly benefits users of the Bx36 line, used by 39,000 passengers per day, according to New York City DOT (NYC DOT).

Where is New York’s new exclusive bus corridor?

Tremont Avenue Busway is located in the Bronx, on Tremont Avenue. The stretch is approximately half a mile long and operates in both directions, although speed limits vary depending on the direction.

In the eastbound direction, the corridor extends from Third Avenue to Southern Boulevard; in the westbound direction, it runs from Southern Boulevard to Belmont Avenue.

It is worth noting that the intervention is not limited to reserving space for buses since the project also included safety improvements at eight intersections, including Tremont Avenue with Webster Avenue, Third Avenue, and Southern Boulevard, with sidewalk extensions that reduce the distance pedestrians must walk when crossing.

Which bus line uses the corridor?

The line benefited by the corridor is the Bx36, a Bronx bus route that connects passengers with different options for city public transportation. According to NYC DOT, around 39,000 passengers use this bus line daily, and this busway seeks to reduce delays caused by traffic so that travel times are more predictable.

Likewise, this infrastructure seeks to improve connections with other transportation alternatives since Tremont Avenue allows passengers to access various subway lines and the Metro-North Railroad, in addition to connecting with other local bus routes.

What are the hours of the exclusive corridor?

The Tremont Avenue Busway operates every day from 6:00 am to 8:00 pm for buses, trucks with six or more wheels, emergency vehicles, Access-A-Ride vehicles, and bicycles.

Private vehicles, taxis, and other passenger vehicles may enter to access a property, business, or parking lot, or to pick up and drop off passengers, although they must exit at the next available right turn, according to NYC DOT guidelines.

On the other hand, parking is permitted in the corridor as long as the corresponding parking signs are observed. Compliance with the rules is monitored by NYPD traffic agents and automated cameras. Any citizen who commits an offense could receive fines of between US$50 and US$250.

As for the 8:00 pm to 6:00 am schedule, NYC DOT explained that any vehicle may travel through the corridor since, for now, the busway-specific restrictions are not applied during those hours, unless another sign indicates otherwise.

The site is part of the Lake Mead National Recreation Area and preserves the vestiges of a community that once had hundreds of inhabitants before being abandoned. Today it has become a unique attraction for those who want to learn about a part of the history of the western United States.

St. Thomas, the ghost town in Nevada that was underwater

This is St. Thomas, a settlement founded in 1865 by Mormon settlers near the confluence of the Muddy and Virgin rivers, as documented by the United States National Park Service (NPS).

Over the years, the town grew to reach a maximum population of around 500 residents. It came to have a school, a post office, food stores, a church and several automobile garages, although it had no electricity or running water in the homes.

The history of St. Thomas changed after then-President Calvin Coolidge authorized the construction of Boulder Dam in 1928, later known as Hoover Dam.

The project would give rise to Lake Mead, and residents were informed that they would have to leave their properties as the water advanced.

How did St. Thomas end up underwater?

Filling of Lake Mead began in 1935, and the water gradually advanced over St. Thomas. By 1938, the town had been abandoned.

One of the last residents to leave was Hugh Lord, who left his home in 1938 when the water had already reached his front door.

When the lake reached its maximum level, the remains of St. Thomas were approximately 60 feet underwater.

However, the story took an unexpected turn. Fluctuations in the lake level caused the old settlement to emerge on several occasions since 1938. The drop in the water eventually left its ruins exposed again.

Can the ghost town of St. Thomas be visited today?

Today, St, Thomas remains exposed and can be visited. The NPS notes that those who arrive at the site can walk along the old roads and observe the remains of the structures that once formed part of the town.

The site has the St. Thomas Trail, a round-trip route of about 2.5 miles that crosses the ruins. The NPS classifies it as moderate difficulty and estimates a duration of between one and four hours.

During the tour, foundations of old structures and small objects related to the settlement can still be found. Since it is a protected archaeological site, it is forbidden to remove or move artifacts, climb on the structures or damage them.

The trail is available year-round and does not require a reservation. However, it does not have services or drinking water at the trailhead, so NPS recommends bringing enough water and taking extra precautions against high temperatures.

Where is St. Thomas located and how do you get there?

The town is located in the northern sector of Lake Mead National Recreation Area, near Overton Arm and the Muddy River, in Nevada.

To get to the trailhead, you must travel along Old St. Thomas Access Road, a dirt road that can have uneven sections. The National Park Service recommends special caution for those driving low-clearance vehicles.

The visit is part of the Lake Mead recreation area, where admission is currently charged. The standard pass costs between $15 and $25, depending on the type of entry, while the annual park pass costs $45.

The case came to light after the FBI searched Rush’s home on May 19, 2026, and recovered 298 gold bars, cash and numerous luxury watches. According to the Department of Justice, the gold bars had been acquired at an approximate cost of $46 million to the government.

Rush, 49, of Ashburn, Virginia, used his government position to create fictitious government authorities and programs in order to obtain federal funds for his personal benefit. Court documents state that one of the schemes involved creating a fabricated Special Access Program that did not actually exist.

How he used the government funds

Rush fraudulently obtained approximately $193.59 million in U.S. government funds. After receiving the money, he acquired the gold bars and directed approximately $145 million in wire transfers.

The funds were also used to purchase luxury real estate in Florida, watches and high-end vehicles.

During the search of his residence, federal agents recovered approximately $2.1 million in cash, €104,795 and numerous luxury watches. As part of his plea agreement, Rush agreed to forfeit the gold bars and currency found at his home, the properties obtained through the fraud, 30 watches — many of them Rolexes — and two 2026 BMW Alpina vehicles.

Investigators also determined that Rush had reached his senior position, in part, by providing false information about his education and military experience.

The investigation that led to the gold discovery

The case began with an internal investigation that identified potential criminal activity. The CIA referred the matter to the FBI, which then worked with the Justice Department and other law enforcement agencies.

The Justice Department said Rush’s conduct went beyond the financial loss to the government. His actions also raised concerns within the intelligence community because of the sensitive position he held and the security clearance he possessed.

As part of his guilty plea, Rush agreed to forfeit the gold bars, cash found at his residence, fraudulently acquired properties, luxury watches and vehicles.

Rush is scheduled to be sentenced on January 28, 2027. He faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, along with supervised release, forfeiture, restitution and a fine. The investigation remains ongoing, and the Director of National Intelligence has requested an investigation by the Inspector General for the Intelligence Community.

Known by his nom de guerre ‘Pancerz’ (‘armor’), Lutak had turned 109 on August 29. Born in 1917 in Żarnowa, in southeastern Poland, he witnessed some of the main events in the country’s contemporary history, from World War II to the democratic transformation.

Tadeusz Lutak, the World War II veteran who lived to 109

During World War II, Lutak was part of a tank crew during the September 1939 campaign, when Nazi Germany invaded Poland. He later joined the Polish resistance and led a sabotage group in the Home Army (Armia Krajowa), the main Polish armed underground organization during the German occupation.

It was during that period that he adopted the pseudonym ‘Pancerz’. Lutak later reached the rank of captain and remained actively present in veterans’ circles in his later years, as well as taking part in commemorative events and meetings with young people.

The Territorial Defence Forces’ tribute to Tadeusz Lutak

The Territorial Defence Forces highlighted Lutak’s career and his connection to the country’s history. “The soldier for whom service to the homeland was the value of a lifetime” has “ended his eternal watch,” the WOT said in its statement.

The institution also recalled that Lutak “witnessed the most important events in our history.” His testimony was considered especially valuable because he had lived through different stages of Poland: the interwar period, the German occupation, the period under the communist regime, and the subsequent democratic transformation.

For his participation in armed conflicts and his commitment to historical memory, he received multiple decorations and honors throughout his life, including the Territorial Army Cross, an institution considered the historical heir to the Polish resistance during World War II.

When he became Poland’s oldest man

According to records cited by Polish media, Lutak became Poland’s oldest man in July 2024, after the death of Władysław Fidos, who was 108.

After Lutak’s death, the record of the oldest men again turns attention to other centenarian survivors in Europe. According to the European Supercentenarians Organization, the continent’s oldest man is currently Portuguese Joaquim Varela, born in 1915 and 111 years old.

In the European Union, prices already include a value-added tax (VAT), a national tax charged at every stage of production and sale. Standard rates range from 17% in Luxembourg to 27% in Hungary.

Travelers who live outside the EU can get part of that money back on goods they take home. The process, however, has several conditions.

What is European VAT, and how does it work?

The value-added tax (VAT) is similar to the traditional sales tax in a sense that the consumer pays it at the point of purchase.

But unlike the United States, where tax is tacked on top of an item’s retail price, in Europe, VAT is already factored into the price tag.

When can you get a VAT refund on your purchases?

Anyone who is a non-EU resident can claim a VAT refund on purchases made in Europe. When you are departing, you will need to present

• Stamped VAT refund documents.
• Physical goods in your personal luggage
• Prove that you are a non-EU resident with the passport or residence permit

Also, for getting the refund, the presentation of all these items needs to be within three months of the purchase. For the items to be eligible, they must be new and unused or unworn. The idea is that the goods are for “export,” not for use on your trip.

Each country sets a minimum purchase per store, which under EU rules cannot exceed €175. The threshold varies widely: €100 in France, €70 in Italy and €50 in Germany, while Spain has no minimum at all. The United Kingdom no longer offers tax-free shopping after Brexit.

The step-by-step for getting the VAT refund

VAT refund rules vary from country to country in the EU, but here’s a general breakdown of how the VAT refund process works.

Request the VAT refund form

Most luxury retailers and department stores will automatically offer a VAT refund document, but you can also ask the cashier for the paperwork.

Fill out the refund form

Retailer fills out and signs or stamps the refund form before attaching the receipt. You will need to keep receipts, as they need to be presented at a VAT refund counter when leaving the EU.

Get your tax-refund form stamped

When you are at the airport, go to the customs office and get a stamp from customs or electronic validation at a kiosk. You will still have to validate your forms by scanning or stamping them at the airport to proof you have taken the items out of the EU.

Claim your refund

Depending on the airport, you may have to go to a separate VAT refund counter and show every receipt and refund form to customs agents.

You can pick between an instant cash refund, which may come with a higher commision fee, or a refund to your credit card, which may take a couple of days.

Keep your forms together in case you haven’t been refunded within six weeks and need to follow up.

According to the official schedule, schools will have no classes on Thursday, November 26, and Friday, November 27, 2026, because of Thanksgiving and the following day of break.

The Miami-Dade school calendar also distinguishes these dates from the break days that apply exclusively to certain employees of the education system.

The days November 23, 24, and 25 are marked as “Recess Days”, but they apply only to 10- and 11.5-month workers.

When is Thanksgiving break in Miami schools in 2026?

For students in Miami-Dade public schools, the 2026 Thanksgiving break will begin on Thursday, November 26 (Thanksgiving, a holiday approved by the Board for students and employees), and will continue on Friday, November 27 (a break day also for students and employees).

When does the 2026-2027 school year end in Miami?

The Miami-Dade calendar states that the last day of classes will be Thursday, June 3, 2027. The day also includes the end of the fourth grading period and the second semester.

2026-2027 school calendar in Miami-Dade: other key dates to keep in mind

• December 21, 2026 to January 1, 2027: winter break.
• March 22 to 26, 2027: spring break.
• June 3, 2027: last day of classes.

The calendar also includes a special feature for elementary schools: every Wednesday, students in second through fifth grade leave one hour early, as do students in second through eighth grade at K-8 centers.

For this reason, the dates are already known for those born between the 1st and the 10th of each month to receive their payments during the last three months of 2026.

When do those born from the 1st to the 10th receive the remaining 2026 payments?

The payment dates confirmed by the SSA for beneficiaries born between the 1st and the 10th are:

• October 14.
• November 10.
• December 9.

Each year, the SSA publishes its official calendar, in which it establishes the scheduled dates for the deposit of the various Social Security benefits.

What should you do if payments aren’t received on time?

The SSA advises through its official website that if the payment is not received on the scheduled date, you should first contact your bank or financial institution, as it may be a delay in payment processing.

If the bank does not respond, you can call toll-free 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) or contact the nearest Social Security office.

Keeping information up to date: why can incorrect data affect payment regularity?

From the SSA blog, they advise informing the agency about any changes in aspects of your life that may affect eligibility and the amount of your benefits.

SSA requests that the following be reported:

• Changes in marital status.
• Death of a spouse or ex-spouse.
• Arrival of a child in the family.
• Changes in children’s marital status.
• Children leaving the family home.

This is a recommendation from the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), which shared different easy-to-implement mixtures, ideal for those who have young children and want to reduce their use of conventional cleaning products to limit the risks of poisoning and exposure.

An article published on April 2 of this year by the American Academy of Pediatrics analyzed injuries related to cleaning products treated by emergency departments in the U.S. between 2007 and 2022 and estimated that 240,862 children 5 years old or younger were treated for injuries related to household products.

Mix cornstarch, white vinegar and warm water: what it is recommended for

Specifically in the kitchen, CHOP explains that mixing cornstarch, white vinegar and warm water can be effective for cleaning glass panes and windows.

The recommendation is to choose a large container and mix

• 3 tablespoons of cornstarch
• 1 cup of white vinegar
• 3.78 liters of warm water

This preparation is placed inside a spray bottle and should be sprayed onto glass and window surfaces as needed for cleaning.

“Consider using non-toxic alternatives that you can make yourself; they can be as effective as commercial products and much less dangerous in the event of accidental ingestion,” the experts indicate.

Other homemade mixtures that can replace common cleaning products

In line with the previous advice, CHOP also includes in its recommendations:

• Water and a thin layer of baking soda: for cleaning the oven
• 1 cup of white vinegar and 1 cup of baking soda: for cleaning the drain
• 4 tablespoons of baking soda dissolved in 3.78 liters of warm water: as an all-purpose cleaner

In addition, baking soda can be used as a safe alternative for cleaning the toilet, if it is combined with vinegar and then the usual scrubbing procedure is carried out. It is also useful for cleaning bathtubs and tiles.

Although this is not an automatic process, there are different situations in which a person, a company, or the DMV itself may proceed with the sale of a vehicle to recover an outstanding debt associated with the car.

What happens in California when a driver has outstanding debts with the DMV?

Certain unpaid debts associated with the vehicle constitute a lien in favor of the DMV. This means that the amount owed is linked to the vehicle and can be used by the agency to demand payment.

If the debt remains unpaid, the DMV may seize and sell the vehicle to recover the amounts owed, as established by the California Vehicle Code. This measure may be used only in certain cases provided for by the regulations.

What type of debts can have this consequence, according to the Vehicle Code?

According to the DMV, there are five types of unpaid obligations that can result in a lien on the vehicle:

• Registration debts.
• Vehicle license debts.
• Transfer debts.
• Unpaid parking fines.
• Use tax.

In these situations, the DMV may use the vehicle to try to recover the amounts owed.

The DMV may seize and sell a vehicle to collect debts: what is the process like?

If the DMV decides to proceed with this measure, the process is not automatic and requires a series of documents and formal notices.

One of them is the Notice of Seizure and Sale (INV 57), which must include proof of certified mail sent to the registered owner and, if applicable, to the legal owner or creditor listed in the vehicle records.

To later complete the sale and registration in the buyer’s name, documentation such as the following is also required:

• Application for title or registration, Form REG 343.
• Vehicle verification, REG 31.
• Form REG 262 with the bill of sale.
• Odometer statement.
• Emission certificate, if applicable.
• Payment of the fees owed.
• The applicant’s credit receipt number for the amount offered in the purchase.

What happens to the money raised from the sale of the vehicle?

The money obtained is distributed following an order established by Section 9802 of the Vehicle Code.

First, the expenses the DMV incurred to carry out the sale are covered. Then, the money is used to pay:

• Registration and transfer fees, along with their penalties.
• Vehicle license fees, along with their penalties.
• Use tax, including interest and penalties.
• Perfected mechanic’s liens.
• Other perfected security interests.
• Parking fines, their administrative charges, and other court obligations that may be collected by the DMV.
• Any other fees that remained outstanding with the department.

If, after covering all these obligations, money remains, the remainder must be delivered to the person whose right to the vehicle is recognized by the DMV.

Deadlines may vary depending on the type of procedure selected. If you must travel within the next 14 days and the new passport has not yet arrived, the DOS recommends different alternatives to speed up the process.

Processing times: How long does it take to get a passport after you apply?

The government distinguishes between processing time and the total time until the passport arrives at home. In 2026, the timeframes are:

• Regular processing: between 4 and 6 weeks.
• Expedited processing: between 2 and 3 weeks, with an additional fee of $60.
• Urgent travel: requires an appointment at a passport agency or center and proof of the urgency of the trip.

These timeframes do not include shipping. The application can take two weeks to reach the Department of State, and once the document is issued, it may take another two weeks before it is finally received.

What should be done if the passport has still not been received and travel is required within the next 14 days?

If the international trip is within the next 14 days and the passport has not yet arrived, the Department of State allows you to request an urgent appointment at a passport agency or center.

The following steps must be followed:

1- Verify the travel date: there must be 14 calendar days or less until departure.

2- Gather proof of travel: this can be a flight reservation or ticket.

3- Request an urgent appointment: this must be done through the Department of State system.

4- Attend the appointment with the necessary documentation: in addition to proof of travel, the documents corresponding to the passport application.

Keep in mind appointment availability, since they are not guaranteed and available slots may not be found.

Exceptions for requesting expedited processing: what are they?

The Department of State considers different alternatives depending on how soon the trip is:

• Trip in less than 6 weeks: you can request expedited service, which takes between 2 and 3 weeks and costs an additional US$60. The timeframe does not include shipping.
• International trip within the next 14 days: you can request an urgent travel appointment at a passport agency or center.
• Life-or-death emergency: you can request an emergency appointment when travel abroad must take place within the next 14 days because an immediate family member outside the United States has died, is about to die, is receiving palliative care, or has a life-threatening illness or injury.

The IRS also offers the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC), which is the refundable portion of the benefit. Eligible taxpayers may receive up to $1,700 per qualifying child through the ACTC, depending on their income and other requirements. Taxpayers must have at least $2,500 in earned income to qualify for the ACTC.

Who qualifies for the Child Tax Credit

To claim the credit, the taxpayer — or their spouse if filing jointly — and each qualifying child must have a Social Security number that is valid for employment in the United States. The number must be issued before the due date of the tax return, including extensions.

For tax year 2025, a qualifying child generally must:

• Be under age 17 at the end of the tax year.
• Be the taxpayer’s son, daughter, stepchild, eligible foster child, sibling or another qualifying relative listed by the IRS.
• Not have provided more than half of their own financial support during the year.
• Have lived with the taxpayer for more than half of the tax year.
• Be claimed as a dependent on the taxpayer’s return.
• Not file a joint return, except in certain circumstances involving a refund.
• Be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national or U.S. resident alien.

How much can families receive

The maximum Child Tax Credit is $2,200 for each qualifying child. Families can receive the full amount if they meet all eligibility requirements and their annual income does not exceed $200,000, or $400,000 for married couples filing jointly.

Taxpayers with higher incomes may still qualify for a partial credit because the benefit gradually decreases as income rises above the applicable thresholds.

The CTC is a nonrefundable tax credit, meaning it can reduce a family’s federal income tax liability to zero but generally cannot create a refund beyond the amount of tax owed.

The Additional Child Tax Credit is different because it is refundable. Eligible taxpayers with little or no federal income tax liability may receive a refund through the ACTC, subject to the program’s requirements.

How to claim the Child Tax Credit

Eligible families must report their children and other dependents on Form 1040, the standard U.S. individual income tax return.

Taxpayers also generally need to complete Schedule 8812, which is used to calculate the Child Tax Credit, Additional Child Tax Credit and certain benefits for other dependents.

The IRS recommends using its Interactive Tax Assistant to determine whether a taxpayer qualifies for the CTC, ACTC or Credit for Other Dependents before filing.

Not every dependent qualifies for the Child Tax Credit. When a child or other dependent does not meet the CTC or ACTC requirements, a family may instead qualify for the Credit for Other Dependents, which provides a credit of up to $500 per qualifying dependent, subject to the applicable income limits and rules.

Among so many, the “Data Science: Data Wrangling” stands out, which is part of its Professional Certificate Program. The course is taught online and over eight weeks, during which the student will learn to process and convert raw data into the formats needed for analysis.

The training is vital in a context in which there are more and more data and a growing number of companies that require analysis to drive progress.

How long does Harvard’s course last and what topics does it cover?

Harvard’s Data Science course lasts eight weeks. The expected time commitment is around one to two hours per week. However, the University clarifies that each student can take it “at their own pace”.

The course topics are:

• Importing data into R from different file formats.
• Web data extraction.
• How to sort data using tidyverse to make analysis easier.
• Text string processing with regular expressions (regex).
• Data processing with dplyr.
• How to work with dates and times as file formats and text mining.

What is the language, difficulty level, and course format?

Harvard teaches Data Science online, through the edX platform. The language is English and the difficulty is categorized as “Introductory”.

One of the instructors is Rafael Irizarry, Professor of Biostatistics, from the TH Chan School of Public Health.

How much does Harvard’s course cost?

The course offers two options:

• Auditor: it is free, includes participation from world-class institutions and edX support. It has limited access.
• HarvardX Certificate: costing $ 149, the course has unlimited access and includes graded assessments. Like Auditor, it includes participation from world-class institutions and edX support.

How do you sign up for Harvard Data Science?

Those interested in the course should go to https://www.edx.org/learn/data-science/harvard-university-data-science-wrangling

There they will have the option to choose between “Get a HarvardX Certificate” and “Auditor course”.

Is Data Science an increasingly sought-after job?

An analysis by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics produced a complete list of the fastest-growing occupations in 2025 and projected for 2035. The data are:

• Employment in 2025: 275,600 data scientists.
• Projected employment for 2035: 371,000.
• New jobs: 95,400.
• Projected growth: 34.6%.
• Median annual salary in 2025: US$120,230.
• Average job openings per year: 24,800.

The table places data scientists among the fastest-growing occupations in the United States over the next decade. It is worth noting that total employment across all occupations would grow by just 3.5% over the same period.

Along the same lines, Microsoft confirms that “the need for data science is growing rapidly as the amount of data increases exponentially and companies increasingly rely on analysis to drive revenue and innovation”.

A clear example is seen in business interactions, which are becoming more digital and data-rich. This, together with an analysis of the Data sector, makes it possible to obtain information on how to better personalize experiences, customer service and satisfaction; as well as develop new products and increase sales.

The United States government considers different reasons to renew or replace the Green Card. The usual process for lawful permanent residents is Form I-90, although the procedure may vary depending on the person’s immigration situation.

In addition to completing the form, the applicant must submit the documentation corresponding to their case and pay the applicable fee, unless they fall under one of the exceptions provided by USCIS.

When does the green card have to be replaced?

USAGov indicates that the most common situations for requesting a new card range from an expired or soon-to-expire green card to a lost, damaged, or stolen one. In addition to a name change or a correction of information that appears on the document.

For a lawful permanent resident whose card was lost, stolen, destroyed, damaged, and has already expired or will expire within the next six months, USCIS considers Form I-90 as the way to request a replacement.

How to replace the green card?

The process can be carried out online or by mail and is done using Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, filed with USCIS.

After completing the form, the applicant must select the reason explaining why they need a new card. That is, the form covers specific cases in which the card has already expired or will expire within six months, as well as situations of loss, theft, or destruction.

The agency states that the application must be completely presented in English and certified by the translator. They also recommend sending legible copies and keeping the original documents, unless USCIS specifically requests an original.

How much does it cost to replace the green card?

The price depends on how Form I-90 is filed and on the reason for the process since, according to the USCIS fee table to date, the general price is $415 for online filings and $465 for paper filings.

However, there are situations in which the fee is $0, including certain cases in which USCIS issued the card with incorrect information due to an error by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), or when the agency issued the card but it was never received and was returned to USCIS because it could not be delivered.

However, before filing the I-90, it is advisable to verify the fee that applies to the applicant’s specific case in USCIS’s official fee tool.

What happens while the new Green Card arrives?

Filing the I-90 does not mean the person is left without a way to prove permanent residence while waiting for the new card. USCIS indicates that, for certain I-90 renewal processes, the application receipt notice, accompanied by the expired Green Card, serves as evidence of lawful permanent resident status during the extension period indicated by the agency.

Currently, USCIS extends the validity of the expired Green Card by 36 months for those who file a new I-90 that remains pending. It should be noted that the receipt notice is a document that should be kept after filing the application, and that processing wait times may vary, but as a reference, the historical USCIS data show a national median of 7-9 months for I-90s during fiscal year 2026 (data corresponds to the period between October 1, 2025 and June 30, 2026).

Since last August 24, the multinational retail corporation began to roll out the contactless payment option in Walmart and Sam’s Club stores.

The national rollout plan in stores and clubs had a completion date toward the end of 2026; however, the company posted a few days ago on its Instagram account that the option was already available in all stores.

What is Tap to Pay?

Tap to Pay offers customers a practical and simple way to pay at checkout through contactless payment methods: ranging from a contactless card to a smartphone or smartwatch (Apple Pay, Google Pay).

Those interested can add their Walmart, Sam’s Club and OnePay cards, as long as they meet the requirements.

Will Walmart continue accepting cash?

Yes, Walmart will continue accepting cash, credit card and Walmart Pay. Tap to Pay is one more payment option added to the lineup.

The same goes for Sam’s Club. In addition, members can use Scan & Go to scan and pay while shopping.

Will there be Tap to Pay at gas stations?

Walmart says that there are implementation plans at gas stations for mid-2027. For now, the company did not provide further information on the matter.

Social Security beneficiaries, according to their date of birth, will have three payment days during October and, according to the official SSA schedule, the next payment will be next Wednesday, the 14th.

However, not all beneficiaries receive the money on those dates, since those who began receiving benefits before May 1, 1997 have a different schedule; that is why, to know which day applies, it is necessary to take into account both the type of benefit and the date of birth or the time when payments began to be received.

Who receives the next Social Security payment and what are the October dates?

Beneficiaries who receive their payments according to their date of birth will have their next deposit on October 14, 2026, corresponding to the second Wednesday of the month. It should be noted that this payment belongs to people whose date of birth falls between specific days of the month, according to the SSA, and the following payment dates are:

• October 14: beneficiaries born between the 1st and the 10th.
• October 21: beneficiaries born between the 11th and the 20th.
• October 28: beneficiaries born between the 21st and the 31st.

Who receives Social Security payments on other dates?

In addition to payments distributed according to date of birth, there are beneficiaries who follow a different schedule. People who applied for or began receiving Social Security benefits before May 1, 1997 usually receive their payments on the third day of the month following the one to which the benefit corresponds, although if that date falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or federal holiday, the payment is moved up to the corresponding business day, according to the SSA.

For October 2026, the official schedule included last Friday the 2nd for this group, because the third day of the month was a Saturday.

How to check the exact date of the next payment?

Beneficiaries can check their upcoming payments through their my Social Security account, the Social Security Administration’s online service. In this regard, the official U.S. government portal, USAGov, also gathers information on Social Security benefits and directs users to SSA services to check and manage payments.

If the user has questions about their payment, the SSA offers telephone assistance in English and Spanish, and to communicate in that language, beneficiaries can call 1-800-772-1213 and press option 7, if available at the time of the call.

Through this agreement, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) of the United States can send information to the Customs and Tax Control Agency (ARCA) about certain financial accounts held in that country by Argentine tax residents.

What information should the IRS send to ARCA?

FATCA is a U.S. law that requires financial institutions to report on accounts of people from other countries.

Article 2 establishes which data must be exchanged automatically regarding the so-called “Argentine reportable accounts”.

The information the United States automatically sends to ARCA:

• Name and address of the account holder.
• Argentine tax identification number (CUIT, CUIL or other applicable TIN).
• Account number or functional equivalent.
• Name and identifying number of the U.S. financial institution maintaining the account.
• Interest paid on a deposit account, when it is an account covered by the agreement.
• U.S.-source dividends paid or credited to the account.
• Other U.S.-source income paid or credited to the account, to the extent that it is subject to the reporting obligations provided for by U.S. tax law.

In the case of deposit accounts of individuals residing in Argentina, the agreement considers the account reportable when more than USD 10 in interest has been paid during the calendar year.

What information does the IRS not automatically send?

One of the points of the agreement is that the United States must not automatically send ARCA the account balance or value nor the detail of bank transactions.

If ARCA requires additional information, it must make a specific request to the U.S. authorities through the available tax cooperation channels.

It is worth noting that, when Argentina informs the United States about a reportable account of a U.S. person, it must communicate, among other data, the account balance or value at year-end and certain income and transactions.

By contrast, for Argentine reportable accounts held in the United States, the information the agreement requires the U.S. to exchange includes identification, account number, financial institution and certain income, but does not include the account balance.

When the exchange takes place

The agreement establishes that the information must be exchanged annually and automatically. The first exchange was scheduled for September 2024, after the IRS confirmed that Argentina had the security measures and infrastructure needed to begin operating the system.

ARCA also officially states that the FATCA agreement has been in force since January 1, 2023.

What ARCA can do with the information

The data received through the international exchange are part of the tax enforcement tools available to the agency.

The information can be used to compare the data obtained from the United States with taxpayers’ returns and other tax information.

What is “unlawful presence”

In terms of U.S. immigration law, unlawful presence is the time a person remains in the United States without authorization: for example, by overstaying the time allowed by a visa or entry record (the I-94), or by having entered without inspection.

That accumulated time is precisely what can trigger the penalty: the more unlawful presence that accumulates, the more severe the sanction upon leaving the country. In other words, unlawful presence is the cause, and the 3- and 10-year bars are the consequence. The rule that governs them is section 212(a)(9)(B) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).

These bars are grounds of inadmissibility, that is, obstacles preventing the person from obtaining a visa, a green card, or being admitted again to the United States for the corresponding period. They are not a “fine” that is paid, but a temporary prohibition on reentry

3- and 10-year penalty: how it is triggered

The key is how much unlawful presence was accumulated and the moment of leaving the country. In general:

• 3-year bar: applies to anyone who accumulated more than 180 days, but less than 1 year of unlawful presence and then leaves the United States. They will not be able to reenter for 3 years.
• 10-year bar: applies to anyone who accumulated 1 year or more of unlawful presence and then leaves the country. In that case, the reentry ban is 10 years.

The ban is triggered upon leaving the United States. In other words, it is the departure itself that “triggers” the penalty. That is why a person who stayed unlawfully but never left the country does not trigger, through this route, the bar.

The problem arises when crossing the border outward, for example, to handle the visa application or green card at a consulate in their home country.

Who is NOT counted for unlawful presence

The law provides for cases in which unlawful presence is not accumulated. Among the main ones:

• Minors under 18: time before reaching that age does not count.
• Asylum applicants with a pending good-faith case (as long as they have not worked without authorization).
• Beneficiaries of certain family unity programs and special protections (such as VAWA and victims of trafficking).

There is a waiver, but with conditions

The rule provides the possibility of applying for a waiver in some cases. The best known is the I-601A (provisional waiver for unlawful presence), which generally requires:

• That unlawful presence be the main ground of inadmissibility.
• Having a qualifying relative (a U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse or parent).
• Showing that that relative would suffer “extreme hardship” if the waiver is not granted.

Why it is advisable to get advice before leaving the country

Since the bar is triggered by departure, many people with a case in progress face a difficult decision when it is time to travel. Therefore, if there is any doubt about one’s immigration situation, the recommendation is to consult an immigration lawyer before leaving the United States, not after.

However, there are simple and quick alternatives that can be tried to free up storage without needing to delete images or install new programs, such as reviewing downloaded files to remove those that are no longer useful or clearing the cache.

How to free up space on your phone without deleting photos or installing apps

For Android users, clearing the cache allows temporary files to be deleted, which helps expand storage space. This does not remove user data or take away information relevant to using apps, but it may cause them to run more slowly the next time they are opened.

In the case of iOS users, they can choose to delete Safari browser history to free up space.

A good idea for all users is to review and periodically delete chats or large files found in messaging apps such as WhatsApp. Documents that take up a large amount of storage appear broken down in “Data and Storage” within the Meta app.

Another solution is to use some type of cloud storage to free up memory without getting rid of photos, videos, or important files that are bulky to store internally. In general, with simple steps an account can be created in the different available options.

How to check available storage, according to the operating system of each device

In the case of Android, it is necessary to:

• Open the device's Settings app
• Select the “Storage” option
• Select the category you want to check

For iOS, the instruction is:

• Open the device's Settings app
• Tap “iPhone Storage” or “iPad Storage”

By following these steps, you can detect which apps and features take up the most space so you know where to focus.

His current net worth is approximately $1.6 billion, but it wasn’t always like that. On June 14, 2026, Pichai delivered the commencement speech at Stanford University, where he studied, and looked back on his humble beginnings in India.

He spoke about the efforts his family had to do to send him to the U.S. back when Stanford gave him the chance of complementing his studies with an MS in materials science and engineering.

Who is Sundar Pichai, Google’s CEO

During his speech, Pichai recalled a childhood that was comfortable for the most part, but not without hardship. “We worried about severe drought and whether the water trucks would arrive in time,” he said, adding that his family had to wait years to get a telephone, a TV, and a refrigerator.

Then came the opportunity that changed his life. “When the call from Stanford came, my father spent the equivalent of a year’s salary to buy my ticket. It was my first time on a plane,” he told the graduates.

Google’s CEO also talked about this part of his life during the virtual ceremony of YouTube’s Dear Class of 2020, when he added that the only thing that got him to where he is today was his passion for technology and an open mind.

The advice Pichai gave to Standford’s students

His arrival in California didn’t match what he had imagined. Driving from the airport with his host family, he remarked that the hills looked brown. His host, Jane Earl, gently corrected him: “We prefer to call it golden.”

For Pichai, that moment summed up the first piece of advice he shared with the graduates: choose optimism. “We don’t get to choose the world we graduate into, but we do get to choose how we frame our circumstances,” he said.

How did Pichai become Google’s CEO at 43 years old?

Sundar Pichai turned 54 last June and has been at Google since 2004. The India-born tech billionaire earned a degree in metallurgical engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur before moving to the U.S., where he completed a master’s degree at Stanford.

He briefly worked for Applied Materials before earning an MBA from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania in 2002. In 2004, he joined Google to lead product management, and his early projects included the Google Toolbar and the development of the Chrome browser.

When Google founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin created Alphabet Inc. in 2015, Pichai was named CEO of Google. Four years later, he also became CEO of Alphabet after Page stepped down.

When this happens, a new copy cannot be requested by mail or online. Instead, authorities require an in-person process that involves submitting Form DS-11 and all the necessary documents.

The list of situations where you have to apply from scratch for the passport renewal

According to what is specified on the official website that the United States dedicates to passports, those who are not eligible to renew their passport are:

• Those who have lost their passport or do not have it because it was stolen
• Those who have a damaged passport
• Those who have a passport that was issued when they were under 16 years old.
• Those who have changed their name to one different from the one on the passport and do not have a document to prove this change

In this case, the process to obtain it is the same as the one applied to adults who must apply for a passport for the first time.

How to apply for an adult U.S. passport step by step

To carry out the process, it is necessary to:

• Complete Form DS-11 and print it.
• Gather proof of U.S. citizenship, such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate (only paper originals can be submitted).
• Present a photo ID, such as a driver’s license.
• Provide photocopies of proof of citizenship and the photo ID document. It is also necessary to meet any additional application requirements, if applicable.
• Provide an acceptable photograph
• Find a place to submit the application and pay the fees.

Details of the full process can be found here.

Important information for those who have processed their U.S. passport this way

According to the official information, once the passport application has been signed and submitted, the State Department will begin processing the application.

All updates related to this process can be checked at this link.

What each label means

• In process: The application is being reviewed
• Approved: It has already been reviewed, and the printing process has begun
• Passport mailed: The document has already been sent to the provided address

If additional information is needed to continue with the application, the authorities will contact you to detail what information is required. This communication must be answered within 90 days.

However, to make the most of its benefits, it is important to choose a suitable space so that it can grow and develop. In that sense, Architectural Digest explains which are the most recommended places to put it and which are those where, according to Feng Shui, it is advisable to avoid placing it.

What does the snake plant mean according to Feng Shui?

The snake plant, whose scientific name is Sansevieria, is one of the plants that Feng Shui associates with protection and energetic balance in the home. According to this tradition, the elongated and pointed shape of its leaves is linked to a protective energy, while the plant is also valued for its ability to purify the air.

The 3 places in the house to put the snake plant to attract good luck

According to Feng Shui, there are three locations that can be especially favorable for the snake plant. One of them is near the front door, although it is recommended to avoid placing it directly opposite the entrance.

It can also be placed in the southeast area of the home, associated in this tradition with abundance, prosperity, and money. On the other hand, those who want to prioritize well-being and health can place it in the east area of the home.

Beyond Feng Shui beliefs, to keep the plant healthy it is important to choose a place with good lighting, preferably indirect light, and avoid excess water.

However, not all spaces are considered suitable. Tradition recommends avoiding certain locations in order to maintain a balance between the different elements that make up the environment.

The places where it is not advisable to place the snake plant

One of the spaces that Feng Shui discourages for this plant is the kitchen. According to this tradition, the fire element predominates there and the presence of a plant with pointed leaves could create an energetic imbalance.

It is also recommended not to place the Sansevieria directly in front of the front door. The explanation within Feng Shui is that its placement could interfere with the flow of energy entering the home.

Why they recommend avoiding the snake plant in the living room

Although the living room is usually one of the spaces chosen for placing plants, Feng Shui raises certain reservations about the snake plant. The explanation is related to the presence of the wood element: plants represent this element and, by adding too much wood presence in the same environment, the balance between the different energies could be lost.

In addition, its rigid and pointed leaves are considered a characteristic that can generate a more intense energy. For this reason, some Feng Shui recommendations suggest choosing other rooms for this species.

From a practical perspective, however, Sansevieria can grow in different areas of the home as long as it has the necessary conditions to develop.

Can the snake plant be placed in the bathroom?

The bathroom also does not appear among the most recommended places for Sansevieria. Beyond Feng Shui beliefs, there are reasons related to plant care that may explain this recommendation.

The snake plant needs little water and tolerates dry periods better than excess moisture. For that reason, a bathroom with constant humidity and little ventilation can favor problems in its roots and leaves if the substrate remains too wet.

Lighting is also important. Although Sansevieria can survive with little light, to grow in better conditions it needs light, preferably indirect. A dark bathroom with poor ventilation, therefore, does not always offer the most favorable environment.

Why don’t they recommend the snake plant in the workplace?

According to Feng Shui, it would also not be convenient to place this plant on a desk or workspace. The reason is once again related to the shape of its leaves, which are rigid, vertical, and pointed and can be associated with an energy considered too intense.

Within this tradition, that characteristic could generate tension, doubts, or a feeling of stagnation in an environment intended for working and developing creativity. Some interpretations even relate pointed leaves to conflicts or arguments.

These are interpretations specific to Feng Shui and not scientifically proven effects. From the point of view of plant care, the essential thing is that it receives adequate lighting, has good drainage, and is not overwatered.

How to keep a snake plant healthy

• Light: bright, indirect light is ideal, although the plant tolerates lower-light conditions.
• Water: allow the soil to dry between waterings.
• Drainage: use a pot with drainage holes to prevent excess moisture.
• Humidity: avoid constantly wet conditions.
• Pets: keep the plant out of reach of cats and dogs

Cleaning specialists consulted by The Spruce explained that the acidity of distilled white vinegar allows it to act on certain types of dirt stuck to garments. However, its effectiveness depends on the origin of the stain, and it is important to use it correctly to avoid damaging fabrics.

What is mixing white vinegar with water on clothes for?

According to Scott Schrader, cleaning expert at CottageCare, a solution of equal parts white vinegar and warm water can be used to treat deodorant residue and the stains that appear in the underarm area of garments.

The procedure consists of soaking the garment in this mixture for 30 minutes or 1 hour. Once that time has passed, it can be washed normally.

In addition to this use, the specialists consulted by The Spruce pointed out that white vinegar can be useful against other common laundry problems, such as greasy or oily food stains, detergent residue, mineral buildup, and mold.

Tom Ceconi, president of Heritage Park Laundry Essentials, explained that distilled white vinegar should be used specifically, since its acidic properties help break down certain stains, particularly those related to fats and oils.

How to use white vinegar to treat tough stains

For stains other than deodorant, Ceconi recommends a more complete procedure. The first step is to pre-treat the affected area with an enzymatic stain remover or with a concentrated mixture of enzymatic detergent and water.

Then, fill the sink, a bathtub, or a container with warm water, place the garment there, and add a cup of white vinegar to let it soak.

The next step is to take the garment to the washing machine and wash it using a cup of white vinegar, without adding detergent at that stage. Then check whether the stain is gone and, if so, wash it again with detergent.

The specialists highlight other possible uses of vinegar during washing; Schrader explained that it can help neutralize odors and soften fabrics, as well as help with certain residues.

White vinegar on clothes: precautions to keep in mind

Although it can be used as an ally for certain laundry tasks, experts warn that vinegar should not be mixed with bleach or chlorine bleach, since that combination can produce toxic fumes.

They also recommend being especially careful with delicate garments. Ceconi advises avoiding the use of vinegar on fabrics with very saturated colors, due to the risk of affecting the garment.

For this reason, white vinegar should not be considered a universal solution for any stain or type of clothing. The result will depend both on the fabric and on the origin of the dirt and the way it is applied.

The model has a 1.85-inch AMOLED screen, Bluetooth calling, physical activity tracking, and notifications from apps such as WhatsApp and SMS. In addition, it incorporates AI control, according to the description published by Walmart, and a battery that can last up to 7 days.

The package includes the smartwatch, the seven straps, a magnetic charging cable, and the user manual, so it is ready to use as soon as it is set up and connected to the phone. The device also has IP68 certification, a one-year warranty, and free returns for 30 days, according to the information published on Walmart.

Walmart smartwatch that comes with 7 interchangeable straps

One of the watch’s main features is that it includes seven interchangeable straps in different colors and styles, allowing the same device to be adapted to different outfits and occasions without needing to buy additional watches.

In this sense, the product also allows you to customize the watch face, so the user can change the look of the watch along with the strap change.

AMOLED screen and more than 100 sports modes

The device incorporates a 1.85-inch AMOLED screen, designed to offer vivid colors and deep blacks, as well as different options for customizable watch faces. Among its functions are step, heart rate, and sleep tracking.

The smartwatch also offers more than 100 sports modes and allows receiving WhatsApp notifications, text messages, and social media directly on the screen. Added to this is the possibility of making and receiving calls via Bluetooth when the watch is connected to the phone.

It is compatible with iPhone and Android and has a 7-day battery

The smartwatch is compatible with iPhones with iOS 9.0 or higher and Android phones with Android 5.0 or higher, so it can be used with different mobile devices, according to the listing, which also indicates an AI control function, although it does not specify in detail which artificial intelligence tools it includes.

As for battery life, Walmart says the battery can last up to 7 days on a single charge, while the IP68 certification allows the device to be used in sweat and rain.

In the United States there is no single national inheritance law: each state sets its own rules on wills, heirs, and the court process, while the federal government regulates taxes.

As for the assets, the distribution is determined during the estate planning process when wills are written and heirs of beneficiaries are designated. The will specifies who will receive what, and then the assets are distributed by the probate.

How does probate works?

Probate is the court-supervised process for settling an estate. A judge validates the will, if there is one, and appoints an executor or administrator, who identifies assets, pays debts and taxes, and distributes what remains to the heirs.

Probate law determines how an estate must be divided. Each state has laws and statutes to determine if and how an estate must be probated. Common factors are:

• The estate size
• Whether the estate includes real estate
• Whether or not there is a surviving spouse
• The number of motor vehicles in the estate
• The existence of a will and the number of named heirs

The process can take months, and many states offer simplified procedures for small estates.

What happens with the inheritance when there’s no will?

When someone dies without a will, known legally as “dying inestate”, the the state’s intestate succession law decides who inherits. The order varies by state, but the common legal order is:

• Surviving spouse or children: In many states, the surviving spouse receives everything if he or she is also the parent of all the children. Otherwise, the estate is split according to state-specific formulas.
• Parents: They will inherit if there is no spouse or children.
• Siblings: If there is no spouse, children, or parents, brothers and sisters inherit the estate. Nieces and nephews will step up if a sibling has passed away.
• More distant relatives: Grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins come next.
• The state: The state will keep the property if no relatives can be found, a process called escheat.

Do heirs pay taxes on an inheritance?

There is no federal inheritance tax, as the U.S. federal government does not tax beneficiaries directly on money or property they receive. Instead, it imposes a federal estate tax on the decedent’s entire taxable state before distribution to heirs.

But this tax only affects very large fortunes that exceed the statutory exemption threshold, which is $15 million per individual as determined by the IRS for 2026.

Also, some states impose their own estate or inheritance taxes, paid by the heir. These are:

• Kentucky
• Maryland
• Nebraska
• New Jersey
• Pennsylvania

The story takes place in a community marked by a string of disturbing events that begin to alter the daily life of its Canadian residents. As the mystery grows, Calvin tries to figure out what is happening and how to put an end to the constant danger faced by the inhabitants.

Netflix's new offering has 6 episodes and will arrive on the platform this first week of October with a cast led by major Hollywood actors.

What is Netflix's new suspense miniseries about?

Beneath the Surface (Below) takes place in a small coastal town in Newfoundland, Canada, with economic and social problems, where a series of events begins to disturb the community's peace. At the center of the story is Calvin Penney, the main character in this story and a fisherman who must confront a threat that comes from the sea while trying to protect his family and those who live in the area.

The situation becomes even more unsettling and desperate when a mysterious sea creature appears, putting the lives of an entire town at risk. From there, Calvin joins a marine researcher to try to understand what is happening and find a way to face the constant threat.

When does the 6-episode miniseries premiere on Netflix?

Netflix will premiere Beneath the Surface on Thursday, October 8, 2026, with a 6-episode production that will be available on the platform from its launch.

In this way, those who want to start watching it will not have to wait a week between episodes, so the miniseries is also presented as an option for those viewers who prefer to watch it in full within a few days.

The arrival is part of the new content Netflix is adding to its catalog during Halloween season, with a focus on tension and plenty of suspense throughout the episodes.

Who stars in Netflix's new series in October?

The cast of Beneath the Surface is led by Josh Hartnett, who plays Calvin Penney, a fisherman who finds himself at the center of the events affecting the Canadian town.

Alongside Hartnett is Mackenzie Davis, in the role of Fonda Howander, a marine researcher who becomes involved in the situation. However, the cast also includes Charlie Heaton, known for Stranger Thinds, who plays Wade Penney, the protagonist's son.

The main cast is completed by Ruby Stokes, Rohan Campbell, Willow Kean and Natasha Henstridge, among other actors.

On its official website, CISA offers cybersecurity advice to avoid falling victim to fraud and identity theft, as well as information about programs, measures, and advances. One of the most recommended is the use of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA).

What is and how does the Multi-Factor Authentication recommended by CISA work?

It is a barrier that provides additional security by confirming identity when logging into personal accounts through confirmation using a second factor, such as entering a code sent by SMS or generated in an authentication app such as:

• Google Authenticator.
• Microsoft Authenticator.
• Proton Authenticator.
• Twilio Authy.
• 2FAS.

This means that even if a cybercriminal gets your password, they will not be able to complete the second step to access your accounts.

What is it for and why is it important?

Activating MFA for accounts and applications that offer the option enables protection with an extra layer of security:

• Banking information.
• Online shopping.
• Social networks.
• Email.
• Companies.
• Your identity.

It is important because it allows an additional layer of security to be added to existing barriers such as passwords.

How to activate Multi-Factor Authentication to protect accounts and applications?

To protect accounts and applications with MFA, the following steps must be followed, according to CISA:

• 1- Go to settings in the account profile, it may be found as:
• • Configuración de la cuenta.
  • Perfil.
  • Preferencias.
  • Privacidad.
• 2- Select Security settings, it may appear as:
• • Seguridad.
  • Contraseña y seguridad.
  • Similar.
• 3- Find and activate multi-factor authentication, which may be found as:
• • Autenticación de dos factores.
  • Autenticación en dos pasos.
  • Similar.
• 4- Confirm your choice of method among the options offered by each platform:
• • Recibir un código numérico por mensaje de texto u correo electrónico.
  • Usar una aplicación de autenticación, que generan un código nuevo cada 30 segundos.
  • Biometría.

Another security measure to complement Multi-Factor Authentication

The use of simple passwords such as number sequences or common identifying information, such as birth dates and pet names, is not secure for protecting important accounts personal information.

However, CISA recognizes that it may be “impossible” to create a password that is different for every account, unique, and secure. For this reason, it recommends using a password manager to complement multi-factor authentication.

The recommendations are:

• That they be long.
• That they be random.
• That they be unique.

What the F-47 Is

The F-47 is the sixth-generation manned fighter being developed by the United States Air Force (USAF) within the program known as NGAD (Next Generation Air Dominance). It is set to become the world’s first manned sixth-generation fighter and, over time, the centerpiece of U.S. air power, above models such as the F-22 and F-35.

Who Is Building It and How Much the Contract Cost

Development was awarded to Boeing in March 2025. The initial contract, in its development stage, was valued at around USD 20 billion, a figure that gives a sense of the scale of the project. The name “F-47” was announced by President Donald Trump when he revealed the award.

What Stage It Is At

The program has already moved from design to construction. According to confirmation from Air Force leadership, the first F-47 is already in production and its first flight is scheduled for 2028. The USAF also plans to add a fleet of more than 185 aircraft in the coming decades.

The United States’ Strategy to Maintain Air Superiority

Beyond the military aspect, the F-47 is a sign of the U.S. commitment to maintaining its technological superiority in defense, in a context of global competition with other powers that are also developing next-generation fighters. For the industry, it also represents thousands of jobs and years of work tied to the project.

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey reported that between October 2 and 8 various works are being carried out that involve lane closures, access modifications, and temporary changes to some services. The official recommendation is to plan trips in advance and allow extra time to reach your destination.

One of the main affected points is John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), where AirTrain service has nighttime interruptions due to improvement work. There are also changes to the accesses to other airports and scheduled closures on important connections between New York and New Jersey.

Which days AirTrain JFK will not operate

AirTrain JFK service remains suspended during the night of Tuesday the 6th, between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. the following day, due to improvement work on the system, as long as weather conditions allow the work to be carried out.

It should be noted that, if the planned work were delayed by adverse weather conditions, the suspension could be moved to the night of Wednesday, October 7, between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. on Thursday the 8th.

How to travel for free during airport construction

Travelers can travel for free during the construction work because at JFK shuttle buses replace the AirTrain during nighttime service suspensions and connect the different stations with the terminals at no additional cost. Likewise, the LaGuardia Link Q70 service remains free year-round for those traveling to or from LaGuardia Airport.

For those arriving by car, at JFK there is a pickup and drop-off area on Lefferts Blvd that allows connection to the terminals via AirTrain.

These airports and access points have delays due to construction and traffic changes

The works also affect Newark Liberty International Airport, where there are delays and detours, according to the Port Authority NY NJ weekly travel advisory:

• Pitcairn Road: until Friday, October 9, there will be work and equipment movements between 7:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., although from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. one lane near parking lot P4 will remain closed.
• Parking Lot P4 and Interstate 78: access to the P4 daily parking lot from southbound Brewster Road will remain diverted until Friday, November 6. For its part, access to Interstate 78 from Brewster Road will continue to be diverted near the parking lot.
• AirTrain Newark: service to and from the airport station will be suspended Monday through Friday, between 5:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., until Friday, November 13, for replacement work. During that time, buses will connect the station with the terminals, the P4 parking lot, and the vehicle rental offices.

New York bridges and tunnels will have lane closures this week: which ones

The main crossings between New York and New Jersey will have restrictions on different days and times due to the work scheduled by the Port Authority. The main planned closures include:

• George Washington Bridge: lane and ramp closures at different times, both day and night, between Monday, October 5 and Friday, October 9, where the works will affect sections of the bridge and connections with the Henry Hudson and Trans-Manhattan expressways.
• Holland Tunnel: one eastbound lane will close between 11:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. on several nights, with westbound restrictions.
• Lincoln Tunnel: alternating closures of its various tunnels between Tuesday and Thursday, October 8, from 11:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m., with disruptions related to the works on the new Midtown bus terminal.
• Goethals Bridge: eastbound lanes will close for several nights.
• Outerbridge Crossing: there will be closures of some toll lanes and restrictions in both directions.

The Port Authority recommends that drivers check updates before starting their trip, as conditions are subject to changes in the works and the weather context, allow extra time for travel, and obey the signage.

The date applies to public school students from 3-K to 12th grade administered by NYCPS and will be one of the main breaks in the academic calendar before the year ends.

When is the next school break in New York?

The next NYCPS school break will be Thursday, November 26, and Friday, November 27, 2026. “Thanksgiving break; there are no classes”, the official calendar states.

Students will not have to attend the city’s public schools during these two days. The break coincides with the celebration of Thanksgiving, one of the most important dates in the U.S. calendar.

What will the school calendar be like during November?

The break will come after several school activities scheduled during November:

• Tuesday, November 3: Election Day; all students will have remote classes.
• Thursday, November 5: Parent-teacher conferences in the afternoon and evening for elementary schools and pre-K centers; students at these schools will be dismissed three hours early.
• Wednesday, November 11: Veterans Day; no classes.
• Thursday, November 12: Parent-teacher conferences in the afternoon and evening for middle schools and District 75; students at these schools will be dismissed three hours early.
• Thursday, November 19: Parent-teacher conferences in the evening for high schools, K-12 schools, and 6-12 schools.
• Friday, November 20: Parent-teacher conferences in the afternoon for high schools, K-12 schools, and 6-12 schools; students at these schools will be dismissed three hours early.

NYCPS clarifies that “the dates of parent-teacher conferences for some individual schools may be different”. In that case, the education authorities will agree on a schedule for the conference.

When does winter break begin in New York schools?

After Thanksgiving, the next major break will be winter break. According to the NYCPS 2026-2027 school calendar, it will run from Thursday, December 24, 2026 to Friday, January 1, 2027. There will also be no classes during that period.

Before reaching that break, students will still have several weeks of academic activity. For that reason, the Thanksgiving break will be the next general break in the calendar for city public schools.

What other days will there be no classes in 2026-2027?

The NYCPS calendar includes different holidays and breaks during the school year. Among the main dates are:

• September 21, 2026: Yom Kippur, no classes.
• October 12: Italian Heritage Day and Indigenous Peoples’ Day, no classes.
• November 11: Veterans Day, no classes.
• November 26 and 27: Thanksgiving break.
• December 24, 2026 to January 1, 2027: winter break.
• January 18, 2027: Martin Luther King Jr. Day, no classes.
• February 15 to 19: midwinter break.
• March 9: Eid al-Fitr, no classes.
• March 26: Good Friday, no classes.
• April 22 to 30: spring break.
• May 17: Eid al-Adha, no classes.
• May 31: Memorial Day, no classes.
• June 10: Anniversary Day and Chancellor’s Conference Day for staff development, no classes.
• June 28: last day of classes for students.

NYCPS clarifies that the dates may be different for those attending private, parochial, or charter schools, as well as certain early education centers and child care programs. In those cases, families should check directly with the corresponding institution.

The measure, voluntarily initiated by the company last September 25, involves four varieties: Gatorade Lemon Lime, Gatorade Lemon Lime Zero, Gatorade Orange and Gatorade Orange Zero, due to the presence of undeclared Yellow No. 5 and/or Yellow No. 6 on the label.

The recall is listed with the FDA as Recall H-0009-2027, classified as Class II, and remains ongoing. The affected products were distributed in 37 states.

PepsiCo recalled Gatorade in the United States: which flavors it affects

The recall affects only certain units of four 28-ounce Gatorade products:

• Gatorade Lemon Lime
• Gatorade Lemon Lime Zero
• Gatorade Orange
• Gatorade Orange Zero

The reason stated in the record is the presence of Yellow No. 5 and/or Yellow No. 6 that were not declared in the product’s corresponding information.

The measure also comes at a time when the FDA is promoting a transition to reduce synthetic petroleum-derived colorants in foods marketed in the United States.

Which U.S. states are on alert?

The products included in the recall were distributed in 37 states:

1. Alaska
2. Alabama
3. Arkansas
4. Arizona
5. California
6. Colorado
7. Florida
8. Georgia
9. Hawaii
10. Iowa
11. Idaho
12. Illinois
13. Indiana
14. Kansas
15. Kentucky
16. Louisiana
17. Michigan
18. Minnesota
19. Missouri
20. Mississippi
21. North Carolina
22. North Dakota
23. Nebraska
24. New Jersey
25. New Mexico
26. Nevada
27. New York
28. Ohio
29. Oklahoma
30. Pennsylvania
31. South Carolina
32. South Dakota
33. Tennessee
34. Texas
35. Utah
36. Washington
37. Wisconsin

What are the lots of Gatorade recalled by the FDA?

The FDA record identifies various lot codes and dates linked to the products. Some of them are:

• Lot 091026 DL — June 7, 2027.
• Lot 091126 DL — June 8, 2027.
• Lot 072226 DT — April 18, 2027.
• Lot 072426 TL — April 20, 2027.
• Lot 073126 TL — April 27, 2027.
• Lot 072926 TL — April 25, 2027.
• Lot 073026 TL — April 25, 2027.

Will Gatorade stop using artificial colorants?

PepsiCo had already established commitments to modify certain Gatorade products. According to the information provided, the company plans to eliminate artificial colorants from its entire powdered drinks line in spring 2026.

The plan also calls for removing FD&C colorants from Gatorade Thirst Quencher and Gatorade Zero products in fruit punch, lemon-lime, and orange flavors during fall 2026.

For its part, the FDA approved new colorants, but from natural sources as part of the process. These include Galdieria extract blue, butterfly pea flower extract, and calcium phosphate.

The piece weighs 10.22 kilos and was finally identified as an iron meteorite. The object received the official name Edmore and was scientifically classified within group IIIAB.

The rock that was used for decades to wedge a door shut

The story dates back to 1939, when the meteorite is believed to have fallen on a farm located near Edmore, in the state of Michigan.

According to the story passed down by the property owners, the original owner recovered the rock and later began using it as a doorstop to keep the door of his barn open.

The object remained there for decades. Later owners of the farm knew the unusual story of that heavy rock, but it was not until many years later that they decided to take it to specialists to determine its true nature.

Interest increased after another meteorite fell in Hamburg, Michigan, in early 2018. Following that event, the owners recognized that the old rock could have scientific value and took it to Central Michigan University to be identified.

How did they discover that the rock was a meteorite?

A part of the object was later sent to the National Museum of Natural History of the Smithsonian Institution for studies that would make it possible to identify and classify it.

The analyses determined that it was an iron meteorite. The complete piece weighs approximately 10.22 kilos, has an approximately triangular shape, and measures around 17 by 20 by 23 centimeters.

Researchers analyzed its composition and internal structure using different techniques. Among the materials identified were kamacite, taenite and schreibersite, characteristic minerals that made it possible to study the nature of the object.

Finally, the results made it possible to classify it as an iron meteorite belonging to the IIIAB group.

The meteorite was officially registered under the name Edmore, in reference to the Michigan town associated with its discovery.

The case was also presented by researchers from the Smithsonian Institution, the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and Central Michigan University during the 50th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference, held in 2019.

The researchers noted that the story shows that meteorites may exist for years preserved on private properties or in private collections without their owners knowing their true scientific value.

In general, all these symbols are classified by color and follow a basic rule: those shown in red are the ones that must always have top priority.

The symbol no driver should ignore while driving

If, when starting the vehicle or while driving, a bright red oil can appears on the dashboard, the vehicle is indicating that the oil pressure is significantly below the levels it should be at.

In these cases, the instruction is to pay attention to the signal, park safely -if on the road- and avoid driving, since movement under these conditions can cause engine damage.

Ideally, check that the oil levels are optimal and make sure it is not a mechanical problem, such as the oil pump; otherwise, you should consult an expert so they can provide a solution.

Other symbols that may appear in red on the dashboard

Just as the oil can appears in red, the dashboard can also show

• Thermometer: the engine is overheating
• An exclamation mark inside a circle in parentheses: a problem with the brakes was detected
• Battery: there is an electrical problem

Airbags may also appear in red, indicating a problem with their operation, or a person in red with a seat belt, which indicates that one of the passengers is not wearing this safety device.

Authorities’ advice in the event of a mechanical breakdown

The North Carolina Driver Handbook advises that all people who suffer a breakdown while driving should:

• Leave the main road.
• Exit the vehicle on the passenger side and do not allow more people to remain inside.
• If you need help, tie a white cloth to the left door handle or the radio antenna and raise the vehicle’s hood.
• If it is dark, you are advised to turn on the parking lights or hazard flashers, as well as always have flashlights.

The adjustment corresponds to fiscal year 2027 and applies to certain forms related to permanent residence, asylum, waivers for inadmissibility, and Temporary Protected Status (TPS).

The United States raised immigration fees: what are the new amounts

The notice published by the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR), under the Department of Justice, establishes an inflation-based update of certain fees created by federal legislation.

The new amounts took effect on October 1, 2026 and apply to the corresponding filings made before the immigration courts or the Board of Immigration Appeals from that date onward.

The amounts established for fiscal year 2027 are:

• Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status: the fee set forth in the notice rises from US$1,540 to US$1,590.
• Form I-589, Application for Asylum and Withholding of Removal: remains at US$100.
• Annual asylum fee for Form I-589: increases from US$102 to US$105.
• Form I-601, Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility: rises from US$1,070 to US$1,100.
• Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status (TPS): increases from US$510 to US$520.

Why did immigration fees increase?

The update responds to an annual adjustment mechanism for inflation established for these fees.

To determine the amounts corresponding to fiscal year 2027, the change in the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) between July 2025 and July 2026 was used.

Since when have the new fees applied?

The new amounts are payable for the covered filings made before the immigration courts or the Board of Immigration Appeals from October 1, 2026.

The EOIR warned that it will continue rejecting filings that are not accompanied by the corresponding fee or, where applicable, by a fee waiver request.

The agency will also update its website and its electronic portal for payments with the amounts for the new fiscal year.

Another portion of the rentals is regulated by Rent Control, a older system that applies to a much smaller number of apartments and protects tenants who have lived in the same building for many years. The rest are market rents, which are not subject to the increase limits set by these systems.

What are the characteristics of a rent-stabilized property?

Rent-stabilized properties are subject to rules that limit how much the rent can increase and offer greater protection to tenants.

Among its main characteristics are:

• They are usually located in buildings with six or more units built before 1974.
• They may include newer housing units brought into the system through certain tax benefits or housing programs.
• Not all apartments in the same building necessarily have rent stabilization.
• The owner must register the stabilized units with the State of New York.
• The tenant may request the rental history of the home to verify whether it is covered by this regime.
• Rent increases are subject to official limits.
• The tenant has greater protections to renew the lease.

How can you identify a rent-stabilized apartment?

To know whether it is a rent-stabilized apartment, you can check the lease, since it should indicate whether the home is subject to this regulation.

In addition:

• The tenant may receive a specific addendum with information about their rights and the legal rent of the apartment.
• The tenant may request the rental history of the home to check whether it appears within the system.

The safest way to verify it is to consult the apartment’s official history with the State of New York, since not all properties that meet the general characteristics are necessarily stabilized.

The rights protected by rent stabilization: what are they?

One of the main rights is the possibility of renewing the lease. In general, the owner must offer the tenant a renewal for one or two years, at the occupant’s choice, and maintain the same basic conditions of the previous lease.

In addition, the following rights must also be respected:

• That rent increases respect the limits imposed by the Rent Guidelines Board.
• To complain if they believe they are paying rent higher than allowed.
• To request a rent reduction if the owner does not provide essential services, such as heating, water, gas, security, or necessary repairs.
• To maintain, under certain conditions, a preferential rent if they were already paying an amount lower than the legal rent.
• To allow certain family members who lived in the home to continue with the lease through succession rights.

How much can rent-stabilized rents increase?

The permitted increase percentage depends on the date the lease begins or is renewed. For those that began or were renewed between October 1, 2025 and September 30, 2026, the permitted increases were 3% for one-year leases and 4.5% for two-year leases.

Leases that begin or are renewed between October 1, 2026 and September 30, 2027 are allowed a 0% increase for both types of lease, which means that rent stabilization cannot increase through an ordinary renewal during this period.

This does not mean a freeze on all New York rents, but rather that it applies specifically to lease agreements for rent-stabilized housing that begin or are renewed within those dates.

Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A., the manufacturing company based in San Carlos, Chile, extended the recalls that had begun on July 3, 2026, and had subsequently been expanded on September 3, where the measure includes lots of two Great Value products sold at Walmart and one Trader Joe’s product. The FDA published the company’s notice as a public service and clarified that it does not endorse the company or the products mentioned.

In this regard, the agency recommends that consumers check their freezers, since some of the recalled products have best-by dates that extend into 2028. Those who find any of the affected lots should not consume them.

Which products did Walmart and Trader Joe’s have to recall?

The expanded recall covers three frozen products for which, to determine whether one is affected, it is necessary to check the name, size, lot code and the date indicated on the package.

Walmart: Grate Value Organic Triple Berry Blend and Great Value Organic Blueberries

One of the first is the Great Value Organic Triple Berry Blend, an organic blend of three berries weighing 283 grams and sold under that brand in selected Walmart stores. The characteristics according to the FDA are:

• UPC: 7874211226
• Affected lots: 6 031 01 and 6 041 01
• Lot location: front of package
• Best-by dates: January 31, 2028 and February 10, 2028

The second product included is the 283-gram package of Great Value frozen organic blueberries, whose characteristics are:

• UPC: 7874211213
• Affected lots: 6 019 01, 6 030 01 and 6 163 01
• Lot location: front of package
• Best-by dates: January 19, 2028, February 9, 2028 and June 12, 2028

Trader Joe’s: Organic Mixed Berry Blend

The third product is a 340-gram organic frozen berry blend from Trader Joe’s and its characteristics are:

• UPC: 00977654
• Affected lot: 6 051 01
• Lot location: back of package
• Best-by date: February 20, 2028

The FDA indicated that consumers who have any of these lots should discard them or return them to the store where they were purchased to request a refund.

In which states were the recalled products from Walmart and Trader Joe’s sold?

The affected Great Value products were sent to selected Walmart stores in 30 states and Puerto Rico. Distribution reached:

• Alabama
• Arkansas
• Connecticut
• Florida
• Georgia
• Iowa
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Kansas
• Kentucky
• Louisiana
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• Missouri
• Mississippi
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Nebraska
• New Jersey
• New York
• Ohio
• Oklahoma
• Pennsylvania
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Virginia
• Wisconsin
• West Virginia
• and Puerto Rico

In the case of Trader Joe’s, the recalled product was distributed in selected stores in 26 states and Washington D.C, the list includes:

• Alabama
• Arkansas
• Colorado
• Delaware
• Florida
• Georgia
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Iowa
• Kansas
• Kentucky
• Louisiana
• Maryland
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• Missouri
• Nebraska
• North Carolina
• South Carolina
• Ohio
• Oklahoma
• Pennsylvania
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Virginia
• Wisconsin

E. coli: what intestinal symptoms can it cause?

The FDA reported that E. coli infections produce Shiga toxin that can cause diarrhea, which may be bloody, severe abdominal pain or cramping, fever, nausea and vomiting. In some cases, the infection can lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a serious complication that can cause kidney failure, especially in young children, people with weakened immune systems and older adults.

Speaking to reporters at Joint Base Andrews before leaving for Europe, Rubio said the U.S. knows only what Moscow has shared. According to Russia, a lab worker appears to have been infected, and officials fear the disease may have spread inside the country.

Rubio pointed to the quarantines Russia has imposed and noted that travel between the two countries is very limited. “I don’t think it’s cause for alarm, but it is cause for focus,” he said, adding that Washington is monitoring the case closely.

The case involves Darya Shipilova, 28, who worked at the Irkutsk Anti-Plague Research Institute of Siberia and the Far East. She fell ill at work and died Oct. 2, and nearly 200 people have since been quarantined in Siberia.

Did the Russian lab worker die of plague?

Officially, the cause hasn’t been confirmed. Last week, a senior Russian official, Alexey Tsydenov, wrote on social media that Shipilova had died of plague. The official later edited the post to say she had “possibly” died of it.

Russia’s public health regulator has since attributed her death to pneumonia of unknown etiology. That is the medical term for a lung infection whose cause doctors have not identified.

The World Health Organization said Monday that it was aware of reports of the death but that no cause had been officially confirmed. Based on unofficial information, the agency described the risk to the general population as low and said it would update its assessment as details emerge.

Local Russian media have linked the infection to an accident at the lab. That account has not been confirmed.

How does pneumonic plague spread, and can it be treated?

Plague is caused by Yersinia pestis, a bacterium carried mainly by rodents such as rats and prairie dogs. Fleas usually pass it to people. The disease still circulates naturally in Siberia, Central Asia, Africa and the Americas.

Pneumonic plague, the form suspected in Shipilova’s death, attacks the lungs. It is the rarest type but the most dangerous because it can pass directly between people through respiratory droplets. That person-to-person spread is what makes fast transmission a concern.

Untreated, pneumonic plague can kill up to 100% of the people it infects. A 10- to 14-day course of antibiotics can cure it if treatment starts soon after infection.

Major outbreaks of this form are rare. The only large one on record struck China in the 1910s.

The ads began airing in late September, including during college football and NFL games, and each ends with “Paid for by the U.S. Government.” At least 13 have been produced, including one called “God Made Trump.”

The White House calls them public service announcements, or PSAs, the kind of messages agencies use to inform people about programs or safety. Critics in both parties say they are campaign ads paid for with public money, weeks before the November midterms.

How much taxpayer money has been spent on the Donald Trump ads so far?

AdImpact counted more than $2.5 million in the ads’ first week on air and $5.6 million by Oct. 2. The real total is likely higher, because PSAs follow different disclosure rules than campaign ads.

Federal contracting records show the Department of Homeland Security awarded $20 million for a “National Media Campaign” to LMD Agency, the firm buying the airtime. The contract began Sept. 20.

The money came from U.S. Customs and Border Protection funding under the One Big Beautiful Bill, the 2025 tax and spending law, according to a nongovernment database.

Will taxpayers keep paying for the Donald Trump ads?

Not for future ads, according to Trump. In a social media post Monday, he called using public funds “a rather standard thing to do” but said he would pay for the ads “myself, and with money I raised for MAGA, Inc.”

MAGA Inc. is Trump’s super PAC, a political group that can raise and spend unlimited money. It had more than $400 million on hand at the end of August, according to Federal Election Commission filings.

A White House official told reporters Tuesday that Trump’s post did not refer to repaying the government for ads already purchased. Asked later that day whether he would reimburse the government, Trump said, “So we’ll decide.”

What is the ‘God Made Trump’ ad, and what else is in the taxpayer-funded campaign?

“God Made Trump” is a three-minute video that casts the president as a near-messianic figure. It reworks “So God Made a Farmer,” radio broadcaster Paul Harvey’s famous tribute to American farmers.

The Dilley Meme Team, a pro-Trump meme group, created the original video, NPR reported. The campaign’s version carries the “Paid for by the U.S. Government” tag, but it’s unclear what, if anything, the government paid for it. As of Oct. 2, it hadn’t aired.

Ads that have aired show Trump vowing to defeat communism, his Mount Rushmore speech and the U.S. capture of former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. Another, “Final Battle,” is nearly identical to a 2024 Trump campaign ad.

Unaired spots obtained by CNN include:

• “King of the Jungle”: lions and a bald eagle intercut with Democrats Trump treats as rivals, such as former Presidents Barack Obama and Joe Biden.
• “Resilience”: Trump’s path from New York real estate to the White House, including his 2023 Georgia mugshot.
• “UFC 250”: the Ultimate Fighting Championship event Trump hosted at the White House in June.

Is it legal to use tax dollars for ads praising Donald Trump?

Legal experts say the ads may break a federal ban on using money approved by Congress for “publicity or propaganda.” They may also violate the Hatch Act, which limits partisan political activity by government employees.

The White House says the ads are “clearly not political” because the president isn’t on the ballot and the spots don’t ask viewers to act. Critics note that, unlike past PSAs, they don’t point Americans to any government program.

Republicans including Senate Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota and Sens. Thom Tillis of North Carolina, John Cornyn of Texas and John Kennedy of Louisiana have said taxpayers shouldn’t pay for the ads. Congress hasn’t acted to stop them.

Who organizes the trip

The organization is Peace Boat, a Japanese NGO founded in 1983 that organizes world cruises with a focus on peace, human rights, and cultural exchange. Each voyage visits numerous ports on different continents and generally lasts about three months.

The way to travel for free is its educational program GET (Global English/Spanish Training), which recruits volunteer English and Spanish teachers to give classes to passengers during the voyage.

The Japanese NGO: how long it lasts and where it goes

The organization’s next major cruise is the 125th Global Voyage, a trip around the world that also reaches Antarctica. These are its main details:

• Duration: around 106 days (about three and a half months)
• Departure: December 15, 2026 from Yokohama (Japan)
• Return: March 30, 2027, back to Japan
• Stops: around 20 ports on different continents
• Ship: the Pacific World, described as the largest ship in Peace Boat’s history

What expenses does the Japanese NGO cover?

In exchange for teaching on board, GET volunteers receive:

• Full passage on the trip
• Cabin (accommodation)
• All meals
• Visa costs and pre-boarding orientation

The only costs borne by the traveler are the flights to the embarkation port and back from the disembarkation port, travel insurance (mandatory), and vaccinations.

What requirements must meet the interested parties

To apply for the program, it is generally required:

• At least 18 months of full-time teaching experience teaching English and/or Spanish
• Being a very advanced speaker of the language (being a “native” speaker is not mandatory)
• A teaching certification (TEFL, CELTA, teaching degree, etc.) is valued, although not always mandatory
• Ability to design classes, work in a team, and handle several weeks of life on board

In addition, the selection is competitive: it includes several stages of evaluation and interviews.

The amount does not constitute an automatic payment for all families, since the ACTC depends on the taxpayer and the children meeting the requirements set by the IRS and on the calculation made in the tax return.

To access the benefit, taxpayers must claim the credit when filing their federal return for tax year 2026. In this regard, the IRS establishes that the CTC and the ACTC are calculated using Schedule 8812 (Form 1040), which must be filed together with the return when applicable.

Who can receive up to US$3,400 from the IRS in 2027?

The benefit is aimed at taxpayers who have children who meet the conditions to be considered qualifying children. According to the IRS instructions for 2026, the requirements are:

• Have an eligible child: the child must be under 17 at the end of 2026 and meet the conditions to be considered a dependent.
• Relationship to the taxpayer: this may be a son, daughter, stepchild, foster child, sibling, or descendant of any of them, among other relationships recognized by the IRS.
• Residence: In general, the child must have lived with the taxpayer for more than half of 2026, although there are exceptions.
• Support: The child may not have provided more than half of their own support during the year.
• Social Security number: The child must have a valid SSN to work in the United States.
• Taxpayer income: the credit begins to phase out when modified adjusted gross income exceeds US$200.00 for most taxpayers or US$400,000 for those filing jointly,
• Taxpayer status: to claim the ACTC, the taxpayer must meet the citizenship, nationality, or immigration status conditions established by the IRS.

The refund may be received by direct deposit into a bank account, but to use that option, the taxpayer must provide the IRS with the account number and routing number when filing their return. The deposit can be directed to a bank account in the taxpayer’s name, their spouse’s name, or both in the case of a joint return.

What documentation must be submitted to claim the benefit?

The taxpayer must include the eligible children on their Form 1040 and complete Schedule 8812, which is the credit for other dependents. The IRS also requires identification information for the taxpayer and the children; to claim the CTC or ACTC on a 2026 return, the taxpayer must have a valid SSN, and each child generating the credit must also have one.

On a joint return, only one of the spouses needs to have a valid SSN to access the CTC or ACTC; the other must have an SSN or an ITIN issued before the tax-filing deadline, including extensions. If the taxpayer previously had a CTC, ACTC, or other related credit rejected or reduced for certain reasons, the IRS may also require Form 8862 to claim it again.

When will the IRS refund for the ACTC be received?

The return corresponding to tax year 2026 will be filed in 2027, and the IRS has already indicated in the draft instructions for Schedule 8812 for 2026 that it will not be able to issue refunds before mid-February 2027, when the return correctly claims the ACTC. It should be noted that this delay applies to the full refund, not just the portion corresponding to the credit.

The final amount and the specific date on which each taxpayer will receive the money will depend on their return and the processing carried out by the IRS.

Latino voters helped power Trump’s 2024 win. He took nearly half of their vote that year, up from about a third in 2020, according to Pew Research Center.

Trump’s overall approval rating, the share of Americans who say they approve of how he is handling the job, held at 32%. That matches September’s reading, the lowest of his political career so far.

Ipsos surveyed 4,506 U.S. adults online from Sept. 30 to Oct. 5. The margin of error, or how far results could differ from the views of all Americans, is plus or minus 1.5 percentage points.

Could Latino voters help cost Republicans control of Congress in the midterms?

Yes, if the shift holds through Election Day. Among Latino registered voters, meaning people signed up to cast a ballot, Democrats lead by 26 points. That is the widest gap the Reuters/Ipsos poll has measured since Trump took office.

Latinos made up about 1 in 10 voters in 2024, according to Pew Research Center. A group that size breaking 2-to-1 for one party can tip close House and Senate races.

The midterms, held halfway through a president’s four-year term, will decide which party controls each chamber for Trump’s last two years. Republicans hold both now, so losing either would end their full control of Congress.

Many analysts expect Democrats to win the House. The Senate is increasingly seen as within reach for either party.

The poll tracks which party people favor nationally, not individual races. It was conducted in English only, and results for smaller groups such as Latinos carry a wider margin of error.

What else is hurting Trump and Republicans before the US midterms?

Cost of living is voters’ top concern heading into the election, the poll found. Prices have climbed since gasoline and diesel costs surged after the U.S. war with Iran began in February.

Gasoline cost 27.4% more in August than a year earlier, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Among all registered voters, Democrats lead 44% to 37%. Independents are voters who don’t identify with either party. Among independent registered voters, Democrats lead 37% to 21%, and 28% are still undecided.

Republicans have also lost ground with voters 50 and older, who typically make up a large share of midterm turnout. Their edge with that group shrank to 44% to 42%, down from 8 percentage points in December 2025.

Voters under 50 favor Democrats by 18 points.

The purpose of this competition is to offer opportunities for anyone with an interest in space and science. According to the official website, all ages, skill levels, and professional backgrounds are welcome.

How to be part of the 2026 NASA Hackathon

NASA specialists are encouraging young people and space enthusiasts of all ages to participate in the competition, share their knowledge, and learn from others along the way.

These are the steps you must follow to register:

• Create an account: The first step to be part of this hackathon is to create a NASA Space Apps account, or log in if you already have one.
• Register for the hackathon: After creating your account, you have to register in the category of the 2026 NASA Space Apps Challenge. You can register up until the hackathon closes on November 15.
• Choose a local event: Choose an in-person or virtual Local Event near you, or the virtual Universal Event if none is available. You can change your selection until November 15.
• Join or form a team: Join an existing team or create your own to participate in the hackathon.
• Submit a project: Upload and submit your team’s project through the Project Tab before the November 15 deadline.
• Complete the participant survey: Share your feedback about your hackathon experience by November 30.

This year’s theme is “The Next Frontier”

The 2026 NASA Space Apps Challenge will focus on “The Next Frontier,” encouraging participants to explore how space science and technology can help address challenges on Earth and beyond. The theme invites teams to use NASA’s open data to develop innovative ideas and solutions.

Participants can work on projects connected to the exploration of the Moon, Mars, and beyond, while tackling challenges that bring together science, technology, creativity, and problem-solving. The goal is to turn space data into ideas that can have an impact on communities around the world.

What can participants win at the NASA Space Apps Challenge?

The NASA Space Apps Challenge recognizes outstanding projects through its Global Awards, giving winning teams the opportunity to receive international recognition for their work. Participants in the Sakhir event can also connect with other space and technology enthusiasts while developing projects based on NASA data and resources.

However, the sponge can remain wet between one wash and the next, a condition that favors the survival of certain microorganisms.

A study by scientists at the Norwegian Institute of Food, Fisheries and Aquaculture Research (Nofima) compared the presence of bacteria in sponges and brushes and concluded that the second option may be a more hygienic alternative.

Kitchen sponges: what the researchers found

The study, published in the Journal of Applied Microbiology, analyzed sponges and brushes used by people in Norway and Portugal. The researchers’ idea was to identify the quantity and diversity of bacteria present in these items and study how long Salmonella could survive under different conditions.

The results showed a curious difference: the used brushes had lower levels of bacteria than the sponges.

What bacteria were found in kitchen sponges?

The study identified a group of bacteria that appeared regularly in both sponges and brushes.

Among the most frequent were Acinetobacter, Chryseobacterium, Enhydrobacter, Enterobacteriaceae and Pseudomonas. The scientists clarified that they were, mostly, non-pathogenic bacteria.

So, why did the finding draw attention? Because these bacteria show that the sponge does not remain completely clean after washing dishes. On the contrary, it can become a place where different microorganisms remain and accumulate, because it retains moisture and organic matter residue.

The researchers indicated that some of these bacteria, such as Pseudomonas and Acinetobacter, are widespread in the environment and can be found in water, soil and food.

What happens with Salmonella and sponges

Beyond analyzing the bacteria present in utensils used by people, the researchers carried out specific experiments with Salmonella, a bacterium that can indeed cause foodborne illness.

In those tests, the amount of Salmonella did not decrease in the sponges, regardless of how they were stored. In contrast, when the contaminated brushes were left to dry overnight, the amount of bacteria decreased.

Why it is not advisable to leave the sponge wet, according to the researchers

The sponge retains water and can remain wet for a long time, while the brush drains more easily and dries faster.

One of the scientists explained that everyday sponges practically never dry out, and that is why bacteria survive better in them.

One of the study’s main conclusions was that brushes can be a more hygienic alternative than sponges for washing dishes.

While the sponge absorbs water and can remain wet for quite some time, the brush allows the liquid to drain more easily and dries faster.

The practices they recommend adopting to prevent microorganisms from remaining on utensils

A previous study by the same Nofima team, with laboratory experiments and a survey of nearly 10,000 consumers from ten European countries, evaluated different ways of cleaning sponges and brushes.

The study determined that washing them with bleach, boiling them, or cleaning them in the dishwasher produced more efficient results in reducing Salmonella.

The scientists also recommended replacing or cleaning those that may have been in contact with pathogenic microorganisms, for example after washing utensils that touched raw meat.

Harvard’s short course that teaches programming from scratch

It is CS50: Introduction to Computer Science, the introductory programming course at the University of Harvard. It is one of the most popular and recognized courses of its kind in the world, with millions of enrollments over the years.

It is designed to start from scratch: it does not require prior experience and guides the student through their first steps in computational thinking and coding.

CS50 tops the ranking of the most popular online courses in history compiled by the specialized site Class Central, which places it in first place by number of enrollments. That is why it is often cited as one of the best and most influential programming courses in the world.

How long it lasts and how much it costs

According to Harvard itself, the course lasts about 5 weeks, with an estimated commitment of 10 to 20 hours per week. It is also self-paced. In other words, you can start at any time and progress according to your own schedule.

As for the cost, the course is free. It offers a free completion certificate through the CS50 platform for those who complete the assignments and final project. There is also a paid verified version of the certificate (Harvard lists it at around $219), for those who want that additional credential.

What you learn

CS50 covers the fundamentals of computing and programming with several languages and topics, including:

• Languages: C, Python, SQL, and JavaScript, as well as HTML and CSS for web development.
• Concepts: algorithms, data structures, abstraction, resource management, security, and software engineering.

The course combines classes, programming exercises, and a final project in which the student applies what they have learned.

How the certificate is obtained

To access the certificate, you must complete the programming assignments and the final project satisfactorily. The free version of the certificate does not require identity verification. The verified one (paid), however, does and is usually used to add to a résumé or a professional profile.

Beyond Harvard’s prestige, CS50 has become a classic entry point into programming because of the quality of its teaching and because it opens the possibility of learning one of the most in-demand skills in the job market at no cost and from anywhere in the world.

The immediate reaction is usually panic, followed by desperate attempts to check whether the screen turns on or to look for quick solutions on the internet.

However, acting without knowledge can sentence the device’s electronics to death.

Understanding the destructive processes triggered by the liquid and applying an immediate action guide based on laboratory tests are essential steps to save the device’s memory and components.

What happens to the cellphone when it falls into water?

When a cellphone falls into water, the main risk is that moisture reaches the internal electronic components while the device still has power. The liquid can enter through the charging port, speakers, microphone, slots, and other openings, and reach the logic board.

If the water reaches certain areas of the board, it can create electrical connections where none should exist and cause failures or short circuits. The risk increases if the phone remains on or is turned on after getting wet.

In addition, the problem does not end when the cellphone appears dry. Water contains minerals and impurities that can leave residues on the components and promote corrosion of the traces, connectors, and solder joints. That is why a phone may work normally after getting wet and begin to show faults hours or even days later.

The device’s architecture also affects how much liquid can enter and which components it reaches. Cellphones with a certain degree of water resistance have seals and protections designed to limit moisture entry, although that protection does not mean they are completely waterproof or that it remains intact throughout the device’s useful life.

Myths that do not work: the ineffectiveness of rice and false remedies

The habit of burying the cellphone in a container with raw rice traditionally is the most widespread urban belief for saving a wet device.

However, conventional rice is the least absorbent method of all available household alternatives, being unable to extract the moisture trapped in the deeper layers of the device.

Worse still, the dust and starch released by the grains can enter through the charging ports and speakers, forming a paste that clogs and further damages the internal connectors. Leaving the phone enclosed in a container with rice limits air circulation, slowing the natural drying process.

Tests show that simply exposing the device to open air far outperforms the absorption capacity of conventional dry rice. Far from being mere theoretical speculation, the ineffectiveness of these homemade methods and the vulnerability of each type of device were exposed in a rigorous laboratory analysis.

Gazelle’s investigation into behavior in response to liquid absorption attempts

To verify the real effectiveness of popular remedies, specialist Scott S. Lyman and the team at the technology refurbishing company Gazelle carried out an experiment with nine smartphones destined for recycling.

During the test, they submerged five Samsung Galaxy S III models, three iPhone 4s, and one iPhone 3GS to analyze their behavior and recovery rate.

The results showed drastic differences according to each brand’s design:

• All Samsung Galaxy S III devices managed to turn on and work without aftereffects after the drying process, thanks to the fact that their removable battery cut the power in time and the open structure of their chassis allowed the water to drain out.
• Most iPhones suffered irreversible damage from corrosion and moisture buildup around the non-removable battery.

In a second test, the study compared the water absorption capacity over 24 hours among seven common materials: cat litter, couscous, traditional oats, instant oats, instant rice, silica gel, and conventional raw rice.

Raw rice turned out to be the worst option of all. However, the experiment showed that leaving the test object in the open air was more effective than any of the desiccants. Based on the data obtained in these tests with real devices, the experts were able to design a rapid-action protocol that maximizes the chances of survival.

Step by step: the emergency guide to rescue your device and how to dry it properly

After a fall into water, the speed of response in the first few minutes is crucial to save the phone’s memory and components. The emergency procedure recommended by specialists is divided into the following consecutive stages:

1. Immediate shutdown and removal of components: Turn off the phone instantly without trying to press unnecessary buttons or check whether the screen works. Remove the case, SIM card, MicroSD memory card, and battery if the model is removable.
2. Mechanical evacuation of the liquid: Dry the surface with absorbent paper towels. Shake the device firmly while keeping the ports facing downward, blow on it, or use a low-power vacuum over the openings to suck out as much surface water as possible.
3. Opening the chassis (if you have tools): If possible, remove the chassis screws (using specific screwdrivers such as Pentalobe for iPhone or Phillips for Android) to expose the logic board directly to the air.
4. Airflow drying or high-absorption desiccants: Place the device in a ventilated area in front of the continuous airflow of a fan. If choosing a drying agent, use only silica gel or instant rice in large quantities (at least 4 cups in a 1- to 2-liter container) for 24 to 48 hours.

Following this strict protocol and discarding myths without scientific basis makes it possible to minimize the risk of short circuits, protecting the logic board and extending the device’s useful life after a water accident.

The federal prosecutors have accused her of secretly working for Beijing to spy on relatives of Taiwan’s president, Lai Ching-te.

Wanying Zhang, a 34-year-old real estate agent from Irvine who also went by Heather, was charged with acting as an unregistered agent of the Chinese government, according to the announcement made by the first assistant U.S. attorney for the Central District of California Attorney Bill Essayli on X.

The allegations presented by the FBI against the California woman

Federal authorities allege that Zhang watched the home of the president’s son and sent photos, videos, and the license plate numbers of his vehicles to a Chinese government official.

Zhang appeared Monday in federal court in downtown Los Angeles for an initial hearing. She has not been formally indicted, and it was not immediately clear whether she had an attorney.

According to Essayli, Zhang traveled to Seattle in 2025 and, following instructions from Beijing, surveilled a “close relative” of a “high-ranking official” in the Taiwanese government and sent Chinese officials photographs, videos, and vehicle license plate information.

Zhang coordinated the trip with an associate and used “tradecraft” to avoid detection, the prosecutor said. He added that Zhang “never notified” the U.S. government that she was acting on behalf of a foreign government, which constitutes a federal offense.

“Foreign adversaries, take note: America is no longer a safe place to run your espionage operations.” FBI Director Kash Patel said on X. “This FBI is hunting threats to our national security wherever they hide and bringing them to justice.”

The official response of Taiwan’s government

Taiwan’s Presidential Office confirmed that relatives of President Lai were the targets, without specifying who, and called it “a classic case of transnational repression.”

“Taiwan condemns in the strongest terms such barbaric acts, which disregard human rights and national sovereignty and aim to suppress, threaten, or even harm individuals advocating for freedom and democracy or their families,” spokesperson Karen Kuo said in a statement.

The Chinese Embassy in the U.S. did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The dispute over Taiwan

Taiwan and China split after a civil war in 1949. Lai Ching-te, elected in 2024, has said that the People’s Republic of China has no right to represent Taiwan, and Beijing considers him a separatist. Since taking office, he has pledged to raise defense spending from 3% to 5% of GDP.

From now, the charges are allegations, and Zhang is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

To Secretary Jake Doe, “Renter protections are a critical component of a healthy, equitable housing market for all. The Moore-Miller administration continues to prioritize renter rights and protections to decrease evictions, keep tenants in their homes, and stabilize and improve communities.”

The update to the 2027 bill provides both tenants and landlords with the most current information about their rights under the law to ensure better housing outcomes.

New 2027 Maryland tenants’ bill aims to improve the rental experience

This package of policies responds to Governor Wes Moore’s 2024 Housing plan to make Maryland more affordable. This Act, which took effect on October 1, 2024, would protect Maryland renters facing housing instability, reduce required security deposits, and create new paths to homeownership by giving tenants the opportunity to purchase their rental homes.

According to the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development, since the Act went into effect, Maryland authorities have seen “a 14% decrease in eviction filing rates and a 16% decrease in the number of households who are evicted.”

Maryland requires the Tenants’ Bill of Rights to be included in every residential lease. The document is updated each year to reflect changes in federal and state rental laws, as well as feedback from tenants and housing organizations.

New rules limit how landlords can use criminal history

The Maryland Fair Chance Housing Act establishes new rules for housing providers that screen prospective tenants based on their criminal history. The law sets limits on when landlords can request information about an applicant’s criminal record, what convictions can be considered, and when that history can be used to deny a housing application.

The measure also prohibits landlords from requiring prospective tenants to undergo drug or alcohol testing. These provisions are part of the changes incorporated into the 2027 Tenants’ Bill of Rights.

New protections for subsidized renters and rental history

Housing providers cannot refuse to rent to tenants using an income-based housing subsidy because of their income, credit score, or lack of a credit score, or certain adverse credit history. They must also give tenants the option to have their positive rental payment history reported to consumer reporting agencies.

This is the Saver’s Match, a program through which the federal government may contribute up to $1000 per person per year directly to a retirement account. The amount each taxpayer receives will depend both on their income and on the amount they have set aside for this type of savings.

How will the IRS benefit with up to $1000 work?

The Saver’s Match will begin to apply to retirement contributions made during fiscal year 2027.

According to the IRS, the federal government may match 50% of the money a person contributes, with a maximum of $1000 per year per taxpayer.

In this way, a person who contributes $2000 and meets the conditions to receive the maximum 50% rate could obtain another $1000 for their retirement savings.

The money will not be delivered as a check with unrestricted access. In general, the federal contribution will be deposited directly into the retirement account designated by the beneficiary and will be earmarked for that savings.

In the case of married couples who file jointly, the benefit is calculated individually for each spouse. Therefore, if both make contributions and meet the requirements, each could access their own Saver’s Match.

Who will be eligible for the Saver’s Match?

Certain requirements are needed to access the program:

• Make contributions to a retirement plan or an individual retirement account (IRA).
• Be at least 18 years old at the end of the fiscal year.
• Not be a student as defined by tax law.
• Not be listed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return.
• Be a U.S. resident for tax purposes.

It will not be necessary to owe federal taxes to access the program. According to the IRS, a person may qualify even if they owe little or no federal income tax.

In addition, the percentage the government contributes will depend on the modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) and the marital status used to file the return.

Saver’s Match: What will the income limits be

To receive the maximum contribution, equivalent to 50% of contributions, during 2027 the income limits will be:

• Single or married filing separately: up to $20.500
• Head of household: up to $30.750
• Married filing jointly and qualifying surviving spouses: up to $41.000

Those who exceed those amounts will still be able to access a partial contribution within certain ranges.

When can the $1000 of the Saver’s Match be claimed?

Although the program will begin with contributions made during 2027, eligible taxpayers will have to claim the benefit when filing their corresponding federal return for that year in 2028.

To do so, they will have to file the new Form 8880-A together with their annual tax return.

The IRS clarifies that during 2026 no procedure is necessary to request the new program. Starting in 2027, those who want to access it will have to make or continue making contributions to an eligible plan, such as a 401(k), 403(b), a government 457(b) plan, or a traditional or Roth IRA, and keep the records of those contributions.

The Saver’s Match will replace the current Saver’s Credit for eligible contributions intended for retirement plans or IRAs starting in fiscal year 2027.

The reflection was recorded by journalist Covadonga O’Shea in her book Así es Amancio Ortega, el hombre que creó Zara, published in 2008 and based on her conversations with the founder of Inditex. Later, the statement was also reproduced by Luis Lara and Jorge Mas in Por qué unas tiendas venden y otras no.

Since these quotes came to light, they have become a philosophy that links product and innovation as the engine of growth. Something undeniable, since Inditex’s own documentation confirms Ortega’s weight in the company’s history: he began his business activity in textile manufacturing in 1963, founded Confecciones Goa in 1972 and three years later founded Zara España, the group’s first distribution and retail company.

What was Amancio Ortega’s philosophy for growing Zara?

Ortega’s business vision starts from one idea: financial results should be the consequence of building a company capable of continuous improvement, and not the sole objective of its activity.

Hence one of his best-known phrases: “It is not worth being an entrepreneur just to be rich”. The statement has been included for years in publications about his career and appears linked to the book Así es Amancio Ortega, el hombre que creó Zara, by Covadonga O’Shea. A review published by Cinco Días in 2008 already attributed that idea to Ortega. Cinco Días

That way of understanding the company fits with another of the statements provided: “Results are not so important, I never look at them. If anything, after three or four months, Pablo (Isla, then CEO) shows them to me. What we do is innovate and not look at the results”.

The central element, therefore, would not be ignoring profitability, but preventing short-term results from replacing product and the ability to innovate as management priorities.

From textile manufacturing to Zara: this is how Amancio Ortega began

Ortega’s business history began well before Zara’s international expansion. According to Inditex corporate records, he started his activity in the textile manufacturing sector in 1963.

In 1972 he created Confecciones Goa, considered by Inditex to be the group’s first garment factory. Three years later, in 1975, he founded Zara España, the first company dedicated to the distribution and retail sale of what would later become Inditex.

Ortega later became chairman of Inditex and remained at the head of the chairmanship until 2011. The corporate documentation also identifies him as the company’s founder and controlling shareholder.

The phrase “If I have made so much money, it has been because my goal has never been to make money or be rich” focuses precisely on the difference between money as a result and as a purpose.

Ortega also explained that he did not review the results immediately and preferred to focus on innovation. This is not a recent statement made in 2026, but earlier reflections that have resurfaced in different media during this year.

One of them appears attributed in publications to journalist Covadonga O’Shea, author of Así es Amancio Ortega, el hombre que creó Zara. Other later compilations also reproduce the idea that Ortega understood money as a consequence of business growth and not as the ultimate end. Xataka

What relationship does Amancio Ortega have with Inditex?

In addition to being its founder, Ortega retains a majority stake in Inditex through his investment companies.

The company’s available corporate documentation puts that stake at 59.294% of the capital, channeled through Pontegadea Inversiones and Partler Participaciones.

That link makes it possible to distinguish between two issues that often get mixed together when talking about his wealth: one is his stake in Inditex and the other, different, is the set of investments managed through his asset-holding companies.

For this reason, it is not necessary to state that Ortega has a certain amount of money “in the bank”. Estimates of the wealth of major billionaires usually calculate the value of shares, companies, real estate, and other investments, and can fluctuate according to market valuations.

This volunteering opportunity in Mexico is ideal for those who wish to combine a long stay with remote work or adventure, as the offer provides free accommodation and multiple benefits in exchange for a commitment of 28 hours per week.

What does the job involve and what are the requirements?

According to the Worldpackers platform, the main activities total 28 hours of help per week and include cleaning and preparing studios, tidying common areas, household tasks, gardening, and support with minor maintenance or repairs.

The usual schedule is set from Monday to Friday from 8 am to 1 pm, which leaves the afternoons free. In return, volunteers receive lodging, high-speed internet connection, free use of laundry, a fully equipped kitchen, and discounts on tours.

It is worth noting that the vacancy is aimed exclusively at couples or duos with an intermediate level of Spanish or English.

What is the accommodation like and where is the experience located?

The exchange takes place in an equipped condominium that has attractive amenities such as a pool, terraces, gym, laundry, and hot tubs. As for the rooms, there is the possibility of having a bed in a private room or shared rooms with other travelers.

Likewise, it is necessary to take into account that flights, local transportation, and travel insurance are the volunteer’s own responsibility.

Why is Tulum one of the most attractive destinations in Mexico?

According to the Ministry of Tourism (SECTUR), Tulum is one of the most beautiful destinations in Mexico because of its enormous historical and natural richness. Among its great attractions is its famous archaeological zone located on the edge of a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea and the beautiful Playa Paraíso.

In addition, it is the gateway to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and has iconic cenotes such as the Gran Cenote, ideal for diving and adventure.

Following expert recommendations when these foods are kept in the refrigerator is necessary to ensure they are fit for consumption. However, if they are stored in the freezer, the advice will only help ensure product quality, but safety will not be a problem if they are kept at an adequate temperature.

Meat, pork, fish, and deli meats: how long can they be stored in the refrigerator

The official website of the United States Government dedicated to food safety states that, in a refrigerator at 4 °C or lower and a freezer at -18 °C or lower, the recommendation is:

Meat, pork, and chicken

• When it is hamburger meat, ground meat, or chicken, 1 to 2 days in the refrigerator and 3 to 4 months in the freezer are recommended.
• If it is fresh beef, lamb, or pork, the advice is 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator and 4 to 12 months in the freezer.

Fish and other seafood products

• Fatty fish: 1 to 3 days in the refrigerator and 2 to 3 months in the freezer.
• Lean fish: 1 to 3 days in the refrigerator and 6 to 8 months in the freezer.
• Fish such as trout or rockfish: 1 to 3 days in the refrigerator and 4 to 8 months in the freezer.
• Crab or lobster: 1 day in the refrigerator, it is not recommended to put them in the freezer.
• Clams, mussels, and oysters in the shell: 5 to 10 days in the refrigerator; it is not recommended to put them in the freezer.
• Crayfish: 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator and 8 to 18 months in the freezer.
• Clams, mussels, and oysters without the shell: 3 to 10 days in the refrigerator and 3 to 4 months in the freezer.
• Squid: 1 to 3 days in the refrigerator and 6 to 18 months in the freezer.

Deli meats

• Opened packages: 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator, 1 to 2 months in the freezer.
• Unopened packages: they can remain two weeks in the refrigerator and 1 to 2 months in the freezer.

Essential information about food refrigeration that everyone should know

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) explains that it is essential to keep the refrigerator regularly clean and to clean up any spill as soon as possible to prevent the growth and spread of bacteria.

In addition, it advises always storing refrigerated foods covered and eggs in their carton inside the refrigerator, rather than in the door.

Although it is not a toxic product, there are several people with allergies and intolerances who could be harmed by this type of error, so the decision was made to withdraw it from the market with the knowledge of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

FDA withdraws popular bread sold in five states

According to what the FDA confirmed, these products would have been in:

• Arkansas.
• Louisiana.
• New Mexico.
• Oklahoma.
• Texas.

Although the company is based in Thomasville, Georgia, it distributes to 44 bakeries in 19 states. Some of its better-known brands are:

• Nature’s Own.
• Dave’s Killer Bread.
• Canyon Bakehouse.
• Simple Mills.
• Wonder.
• Tastykake.

The withdrawn products: How to recognize them and what to do with them?

The products that were withdrawn from the market due to the presence of undeclared ingredients are:

Nature’s Own® Hawaiian Bread 20 oz:

• UPC code: 0 72250 91662 2.
• Product codes:
• 0188 265 09:20 - 0188 265 10:30.
• 0188 267 04:50 - 0188 267 06:00.
• 0188 270 04:15 - 0188 270 06:05.
• 0188 272 17:15 - 0188 272 19:25.
• Use by recommended before:
• 8 de octubre de 2026.
• 18 de octubre de 2026.

Nature´s Own® Hawaiian Bread 2-pack 40 oz:

• UPC code: 0 72250 00683 5.
• Product codes: not available.
• Use by recommended before: not available.

Effects of consuming milk in people with allergies or intolerances

An intolerance differs from an allergy in the symptoms it produces in the affected person.

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), people who are lactose intolerant usually experience symptoms a few hours after consuming these products, which often include:

• Bloating or abdominal distension.
• Diarrhea.
• Gas.
• Nausea.
• Abdominal pain.
• Stomach rumbling or noises.
• Vomiting.

The condition is caused by the small intestine producing low concentrations of lactase, the enzyme responsible for breaking down the lactose consumed. Because it is not digested, it passes into the colon, and bacteria are responsible for breaking it down, producing fluids and gases.

On the other hand, according to Mayo Clinic milk allergy is an immune system response, and symptoms appear immediately after consuming milk. They may include:

• Vomiting.
• Hives.
• Digestive problems.
• Difficulty breathing.
• Wheezing in the chest.

Some beneficiaries may receive up to three payments during the month because they receive both Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and another Social Security benefit.

The unusual payment pattern is the result of the way the SSA handles SSI payments when the first day of a month falls on a weekend or federal holiday. Because November 1, 2026, falls on a Sunday, the SSI payment for November will be sent early, on Friday, October 30.

Who can receive three payments in October

Beneficiaries who receive both SSI and another Social Security benefit, such as retirement, disability or survivor benefits, are the ones who may receive three deposits during October.

The first payment is their October SSI benefit, scheduled for Thursday, October 1. The second is their regular Social Security payment, scheduled for Friday, October 2 for beneficiaries in this category.

The third payment will arrive on Friday, October 30. However, this is not an extra benefit or bonus. It is the November SSI payment being issued early because November 1 falls on a Sunday.

As a result, beneficiaries who receive the October 30 payment should know that they will not receive another SSI payment in November. The next SSI payment is scheduled for Tuesday, December 1.

Social Security payment schedule for October 2026

The SSA’s official 2026 calendar divides Social Security payments according to the type of benefit and, for most beneficiaries, their date of birth.

The SSA generally distributes Social Security payments on the second, third or fourth Wednesday of the month, depending on the beneficiary’s date of birth.

Why some beneficiaries receive more than one payment

Receiving two or three deposits in the same month does not mean that the SSA has increased the beneficiary’s monthly benefit. It is simply a result of the agency’s payment calendar and the need to move payments forward when a scheduled date falls on a weekend or federal holiday.

In October 2026, the adjustment is particularly noticeable because the SSI payment for November is being issued on October 30. This means someone who receives both SSI and another Social Security benefit can see three deposits in their account during October, even though one of those payments technically belongs to the following month.

The generic ballot is a poll question that asks voters which party they plan to support for Congress, without naming specific candidates. The figures come from RealClearPolitics, a website that averages recent polls to smooth out differences between individual surveys.

Every poll in the average, conducted between Sept. 16 and Oct. 5, shows Democrats ahead, by margins ranging from 2 to 15 points.

Midterm elections take place halfway through a president’s four-year term. This year, all 435 House seats and 35 of the Senate’s 100 seats are on the ballot. Republicans currently control both chambers.

How big is Democrats’ lead in the generic ballot?

Democrats’ share of the average sat near 48% for much of the summer before climbing above 50% in late September.

A party needs 218 of the 435 House seats for a majority. Republicans hold 218 and Democrats 214, with one independent and two vacant seats, according to the House Press Gallery’s official count. Democrats need four more seats to take control.

The generic ballot has a strong track record in House races. Except for 2016, the party leading the final RealClearPolitics average on Election Day has won the House in every election since 2002.

Why may the generic ballot lead not be enough to win the US Senate?

A national lead doesn’t translate directly into Senate seats. Every state elects two senators regardless of population, so control comes down to a handful of competitive states rather than the national vote.

Republicans won 53 Senate seats in 2024. Democrats need to flip a net four seats, meaning win them away from Republicans, to reach 51. A 50-50 split isn’t enough, because Vice President JD Vance, who presides over the Senate, would cast the tie-breaking vote.

Democrats must also hold on to seats they already control. They lead in the three Democratic-held races RealClearPolitics lists as key battlegrounds: Michigan by 3.6 points, New Hampshire by 5.6 and Georgia by 7.8.

The harder task is flipping Republican seats. RealClearPolitics averages show Democrats ahead in six:

• North Carolina: Roy Cooper leads Michael Whatley 49.8% to 40.8%.
• Ohio: Former Sen. Sherrod Brown leads Sen. Jon Husted 47.1% to 44%.
• Texas: James Talarico leads Ken Paxton 48.2% to 45.4%.
• Alaska: Mary Peltola leads Sen. Dan Sullivan 48.8% to 47%.
• Maine: Troy Jackson leads Sen. Susan Collins 48.1% to 47.4%.
• Iowa: Josh Turek leads Ashley Hinson 46% to 45.3%.

Only North Carolina shows a comfortable lead. In the other five, Democrats are ahead by about 3 points or less. That’s close enough that a modest polling miss, meaning a gap between what polls show and how people actually vote, could change the result.

President Donald Trump won Texas, Alaska and Iowa by more than 13 points in 2024. To win the Senate, Democrats would need North Carolina plus three of those five close races.

The star protagonist of Taxi Driver, Raging Bull and The Godfather Part II, a two-time Academy Award winner, was asked by Reader’s Digest what advice he would tell to his younger self: “I have a lot of advice to give to my younger self.”

The advice Robert De Niro would give to his younger self

“I remember I met a guy when I was a kid, maybe in my teens, and he was a salesman at a store, and he said, ‘If I only knew then what I know now.’ So I have a lot to tell my younger self,” he recalled, referring to a moment that he now understands as the years went by.

The actor made clear that his message isn’t about avoiding risks or regretting choices: “That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do certain things, but be aware of the consequences. You have to learn through those experiences.”. What he means is that mistakes are part of the process, as long as one understands what is at stake.

The importance of staying humble at all times

It is not the first time De Niro has shared that kind of wisdom. During an Actors Roundtable organized by The Hollywood Reporter, where he sat alongside some of the most famous actors in Hollywood, he was asked a similar question and answered with something he had recently told his grandson.

“Just be calm. When things are going well, be calm. Don’t think you’re on top of the world, in a sense, you always have to be wary,” he said. “I’ve seen people come, I’ve seen people go.”, added.

For De Niro, controlling the ego is essential to surviving in an industry as unpredictable as Hollywood. “Take what’s good in your life and move forward cautiously and carefully, and thank God that you have that. It’s very, very important not to overextend yourself when you think you’ve got it… there’s no such thing. Everybody’s dispensable,” he added.

De Niro has also spoken about the value of learning from those who came before. In 2015, while promoting The Intern, he said younger actors should not hesitate to seek guidance from veterans.

“There’s no downside in asking somebody who’s been around a lot longer than you, especially if they’ve done things that you’ve done,” he said, referring to the process he made when he was starting out.

It is important to consider that the status of refunds can be checked through several channels and, in this way, keep track of the agency’s processing until finally receiving the payment.

IRS refund: who gets paid faster

According to the official website of the tax agency, the time frame varies depending on the format in which the tax return was filed. Although in general, most taxpayers choose to file electronically, there are those who still send in their return on paper.

The time frames for each case are:

• Electronic return: up to 3 weeks from the date it was filed
• Return by mail: 6 weeks or more from the time it was received by the agency

“Tax returns filed electronically are processed faster than paper ones, so refunds arrive more quickly, sometimes within ten days if you request direct deposit,” explains the agency.

Who has to file a paper return?

The authorities specify that the procedure must be carried out this way when:

• You want to claim a dependent who has already been claimed on another tax return.
• It is filed outside the period in which electronic returns are allowed, which is from the beginning of tax season until mid-October.

Causes that can delay the issuance of a refund

There are errors or circumstances that cause delays in processing the refund, such as:

• Not signing or having incorrect mathematical calculations
• Claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit
• Filing an amended return
• Claiming injured taxpayer relief

How to check the refund status and when it is available

According to what is indicated, this information can be known:

• 24 hours after filing a current-year electronic return.
• 3 days after filing a return for prior years.
• 4 weeks after a paper return is filed.

By accessing the IRS online account you can follow the status of the process and, if you are not signed in, by knowing the amount to receive, the SSN or ITIN, marital status and tax year you can check it by clicking here.

Which one is the most visited city in the world

Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is the most visited city in the world in 2026, with around 30.3 million international tourists.

With that figure, it remains in first place for the second consecutive year, driven by its huge volume of visitors and its accessibility as a major gateway to Southeast Asia.

Who conducts the study and how is it measured?

The data comes from the Top 100 City Destinations Index, an annual report produced by the consultancy Euromonitor International, one of the world’s most recognized market analysis firms.

The study analyzes 100 cities and evaluates them according to several pillars, such as economic and business performance, tourism infrastructure, policies and tourism appeal, health and safety, and sustainability.

For the ranking of the most visited in particular, the key indicator is international tourist arrivals: how many travelers from other countries each city received in the year. That is the number that defines the table that follows.

The ranking of the world’s most visited cities

According to Euromonitor International’s Top 100 City Destinations Index, the top 10 cities that receive the most international tourists were as follows:

1. Bangkok (Thailand): 30.3 million
2. Hong Kong (China): 23.2 million
3. London (United Kingdom): 22.7 million
4. Macao (China): 20.4 million
5. Istanbul (Turkey): 19.7 million
6. Dubai (United Arab Emirates): 19.5 million
7. Mecca (Saudi Arabia): 18.7 million
8. Antalya (Turkey): 18.6 million
9. Paris (France): 18.3 million
10. Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia): 17.3 million

Why Asian cities dominate

Asia dominates the top, with Bangkok, Hong Kong, Macao and Kuala Lumpur among the top ten. But that leadership is not explained by population size but by a set of factors in the tourism industry:

• Air connectivity: the region expanded its flight networks, and its airports operate as major connection hubs, making it easier for travelers from around the world to arrive.
• More flexible visas: more open entry policies reduce barriers to visiting these destinations.
• Affordable costs: cities like Bangkok combine low prices with a highly attractive cultural and culinary offering.
• Investment in infrastructure: expansion of airports, urban transport, and digital entry systems that streamline the tourist experience.
• Growth in tourism within Asia: the Asia-Pacific region experienced the world’s greatest expansion, with international arrivals growing by nearly 10% and surpassing 350 million trips, largely due to tourist movement between countries in the region itself.

Added to that is the weight of the Middle East (Dubai, Mecca) and of Turkey, which places two cities in the top 10 (Istanbul and Antalya). In contrast, the major classic European capitals, such as London and Paris, remain among the most chosen but no longer top the visitor volume table.

Among them, Mexico as a whole is Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution. But it also includes other areas at levels 1, 3 and 4.

“Exercise greater caution in Mexico, due to terrorism, crime and kidnappings, the risk is high in some areas. Read the full travel advisory”, the official Travel.State.Gov website says.

What does Alert Level 4 mean?

According to Travel.State.Gov., “Alert Level 4 - Do Not Travel” is the highest warning because of “life-threatening risks”, which are described in the Travel Advisory.

“The U.S. government may have very limited or no ability to provide assistance, even in an emergency”, the official page explains.

The DOS recommends that U.S. citizens “do not travel to the country or leave as soon as it is safe to do so”.

The United States advises against traveling to six states in Mexico: which are they?

The DOS advises against traveling to the following specific areas:

• Colima
• Guerrero
• Michoacán
• Sinaloa
• Tamaulipas
• Zacatecas

What risks exist in each state of Mexico?

The highest alert level, “Level 4 - Do Not Travel”, applies because of risks linked to terrorism, crime, kidnappings and violence by criminal groups.

In the six states, U.S. authorities describe specific restrictions and warn about homicides, shootings, extortion, robberies, disappearances and kidnappings:

• Colima: risk of violence by criminal groups, terrorism and kidnappings. Only certain tourist and port areas of Manzanillo and some specific routes are authorized.
• Guerrero: armed groups are warned about, which may set up checkpoints on roads and resort to violence. The restriction covers the entire state, including Acapulco, Zihuatanejo, Taxco and Ixtapa.
• Michoacán: crime and violence are widespread. There are restrictions on travel throughout the state, with specific exceptions for transit routes, Morelia and Lázaro Cárdenas.
• Sinaloa: there is a risk from terrorism and crime. Authorized travel for U.S. employees is concentrated in specific areas of Mazatlán, Los Mochis and Topolobampo, with restrictions on access and movement.
• Tamaulipas: the warning includes shootings, murders, armed robberies, vehicle theft, kidnappings, disappearances, extortion and sexual assaults. Criminal group activity is also noted on the border, especially between Reynosa and Nuevo Laredo.
• Zacatecas: violent crime, extortion and gang activity are widespread. U.S. Government employees may travel only to the city of Zacatecas under specific conditions and mainly by air.

Levels 1, 2 and 3: what other states are under alert?

Level 3 - Reconsider Travel

The Department of State advises reconsidering travel due to the “serious risks” to safety.

• Baja California
• Chiapas
• Chihuahua
• Guanajuato
• Jalisco
• Morelos
• Sonora

Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution

DOS states that “there are increased safety risks”, which are described in the travel advisory:

• Aguascalientes
• Baja California Sur
• Coahuila
• Durango
• Hidalgo
• Mexico City
• Mexico
• Nayarit
• Nuevo León
• Oaxaca
• Puebla
• Querétaro
• Quintana Roo
• San Luis Potosí
• Tabasco
• Tlaxcala
• Veracruz

Level 1 - Take normal precautions

This is the lowest alert level in terms of safety risks.

• Campeche
• Yucatán

Authorities determined that it was not necessary to focus on age alone, but rather on a person’s capability to drive safely.

Now, drivers between the ages of 79 and 86 no longer need to take a new driving test while renewing their licenses.

What changed for Illinois drivers between 79 and 86

From July 1 onward, drivers between 79 and 86 will not need to take a driving test when renewing their licenses because of an important modification to the Illinois Road Safety and Fairness Act. State authorities made this change based on data showing that older Illinois drivers are among the safest on the road.

The law recognizes that age alone is not a reliable measure of driving ability. Lawmakers decided to maintain more restrictions on drivers who are 87 or older. These drivers must take a driving test, among other evaluations, to renew their licenses.

It is important for all drivers to remember that, until they turn 87, drivers between 79 and 80 must renew their licenses every four years, while those between 81 and 86 must renew every two years. After turning 87, the renewal process must be completed every year.

What happens if a license expired before July 1?

The new rules do not apply retroactively to licenses that expired before the Road Safety and Fairness Act took effect. Drivers between 79 and 86 who had an expired license before July 1, 2026, must still take a driving test when they renew it, even if the renewal takes place after the new law went into effect.

This means the expiration date of the license matters for drivers in this age group. A person who was required to take a road test under the previous rules cannot avoid that requirement simply by waiting until after July 1 to complete the renewal.

CDL holders will continue to follow different rules

The Road Safety and Fairness Act does not change the renewal requirements for commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders. Drivers with a CDL must continue to complete a road test when they are 75 or older, including at subsequent renewals.

Illinois also requires a vision screening and the applicable renewal fee at every CDL renewal. Written testing may be required depending on the driver’s record, while CDL holders with a Hazardous Materials endorsement (H or X) must pass the applicable hazardous materials test and, in most cases, complete a new TSA security threat assessment.

For more information about CDL requirements, drivers should check with the motor vehicle agency in the state where they live, as requirements may vary from one state to another.

The promotion applies to the new version of the AirPods 4 and, according to Walmart’s listing, the product is sold and shipped directly by Walmart.com. In addition, shipping appears free of charge and the store allows free returns within the period indicated in the offer.

How much do the AirPods 4 cost at Walmart?

The AirPods 4 currently cost $79 at Walmart, according to the shared offer. The regular price listed for the product is US$129.99, so the discount reaches $50.99.

The store also shows an open-box alternative for $71, although the $79 offer corresponds to a new product.

The offer also includes free shipping and, according to the conditions shown by the store, free returns until January 31.

Are the AirPods 4 water-resistant?

Yes. The AirPods 4 have IP54 certification for resistance to dust, sweat, and water, a feature that makes them suitable for situations such as intense workouts or exposure to rain.

The product sheet specifies that both the headphones and the charging case have this rating. This does not mean they are completely waterproof, but rather that they offer protection against certain conditions involving dust, sweat, and water.

How long does the AirPods 4 battery last?

The AirPods 4 offer up to 5 hours of playback on a single charge. When using the charging case, total battery life can reach up to 30 hours of listening.

The included case uses a USB-C connection, so it allows the headphones to be charged using this standard. In addition, Walmart indicates that the box is more than 10% smaller in volume than the previous generation.

What features do the AirPods 4 have?

The AirPods 4 incorporate the Apple H2 chip, which makes it possible to take advantage of different audio and call features. Among them is Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, designed to create an immersive sound experience.

According to the product description, this feature places sound around the user and can be used with music, movies, TV shows, and video games.

The headphones also include Voice Isolation, a feature that uses audio processing to reduce background noise and make the voice sound clearer during calls.

What does the purchase of Walmart’s AirPods 4 include?

The listing includes the AirPods 4 and their Charging Case with USB-C connection. The product has a built-in microphone and Bluetooth wireless connectivity.

Walmart also offers additional protection plans, although these have a separate cost. Among the options are AppleCare+ for two years at US$29 and Walmart protection plans with prices starting at US$12.

The offer also shows additional benefits linked to Apple Music, with up to two months free according to the terms of the promotion.

In an interview with People, the founder of Rare Beauty explained that she is currently looking to simplify her makeup and detailed the products that are part of her daily routine.

Selena Gomez revealed which products she uses every day

When asked by People about what her daily makeup is like, Selena said that her routine is quite simple.

The artist explained that she starts with two applications of foundation, which she spreads across her face. She then uses eyebrow gel and continues with Bouncy Blush, one of the blushes from her own brand, Rare Beauty.

To complete her makeup, she adds mascara and lip oil.

In this way, her daily routine is made up of five products: foundation, eyebrow gel, blush, mascara, and lip oil.

The choice responds to the style the singer is currently seeking. In the same interview, Gomez pointed out that some people may not prefer the natural beauty look, but said that style has become part of her identity.

Selena Gomez’s change in her relationship with makeup

During the interview, the singer also recalled how her relationship with beauty changed over time. Selena, who launched Rare Beauty in 2020, said that she was surrounded by makeup since she was a child because of her work in front of the cameras.

When talking about the products she would have liked to have when she was younger, she especially highlighted Bouncy Blush and eyebrow gel.

Selena recalled that during her childhood, very thin eyebrows were in fashion, while she had thick eyebrows, something that made her insecure at the time. Today, however, she said that she enjoys laminating them and using gel to enhance them.

The singer also referred to the smoky eye looks she used in 2016, which still circulate on social media. Faced with that more produced image from previous years, Gomez explained that she is currently going through a different stage and leans toward a more relaxed style.

In addition to her daily routine, she revealed another trick she uses when she wants to wear an even lighter makeup look. After curling her lashes, she applies dark brown eyebrow gel to the tips, instead of using a full coat of mascara.

The decision was confirmed Monday on the X account of Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell, who said Secretary of War Pete Hegseth had recommended execution by firing squad and that Trump had given his approval.

“Secretary of War Pete Hegseth recommended — and President Donald J. Trump has approved — execution by a U.S. Army firing squad for convicted terrorist Nidal Malik Hasan, the jihadist who opened fire on unarmed American soldiers at Fort Hood in 2009,” Parnell posted on X.

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has recommended — and President Donald J. Trump has approved — death by U.S. Army firing squad for convicted terrorist Nidal Malik Hasan, the jihadist who opened fire on unarmed American soldiers at Fort Hood in 2009. He killed 13 people and wounded 32 others while shouting “Allahu Akbar” during the attack. The Secretary of the Army will set the time and place of the execution. Judgement day for Hasan has finally come.

— Sean Parnell (@SeanParnellASW) October 5, 2026

Hasan opened fire on U.S. soldiers at a Fort Hood personnel processing center on Nov. 5, 2009, shouting “Allahu Akbar” during the attack.

According to Parnell, the Secretary of the Army will now be responsible for setting the date and location of the execution.

Hasan, who was sentenced to death in 2013 on 13 counts of premeditated murder and 32 counts of attempted premeditated murder, is being held at the military prison at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.

The massacre took place when Hasan, then an Army psychiatrist holding the rank of major, opened fire inside Fort Hood’s Soldier Readiness Center, where service members were waiting to deploy or return from missions overseas.

The attack also left 32 people wounded and was considered the deadliest shooting ever to occur at a U.S. military installation.

The subsequent investigation found that Hasan had been in contact with radical cleric Anwar al-Awlaki, who later became a prominent figure in al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula.

Hasan was tried by a military court and pleaded not guilty, though he acted as his own attorney during the proceedings.

On Aug. 28, 2013, he was unanimously sentenced to death by the members of the court.

Source: EFE.

In 2022 Nguyen, 46, launched a Kickstarter campaign to raise funds to open her dream business. With that goal in mind, she put up her life savings, about $27.000, to set up The Sports Bra, a Portland, Oregon-based sports bar that only plays women’s sports.

Despite its niche premise, the bar promptly brought in nearly $1 million in revenue and achieved profitability in its first eight months. It has brought in more than $1 million annually since then, Nguyen says in an interview with CNBC.

“Folks were doubtful of the concept”

The idea came from a frustration many fans share: Nguyen couldn’t find a bar willing to put the 2018 NCAA women’s basketball championship on its televisions. When she finally opened her own, not everyone believed in it.

“When we came onto the market in 2022, folks were doubtful of the concept,” Nguyen told The Athletic. “Trolls saying nobody cared about women’s sports, that we’d last two months because we weren’t showing men’s sports.”

She admits she had her own doubts. “Me, personally, I thought the idea was brilliant and that [it was] what the world needs. But I had no idea that the world would want it. I just wanted to give it a shot,” she said.

Its audience has also grown beyond its original crowd: “Honestly, cis men are sometimes the most vocal about why they love women’s sports,”.

Ver esta publicación en Instagram

Una publicación compartida por The Sports Bra (@thesportsbrapdx)

The crowdfunding of fans that raised more than 1.2 million dollars

On May 18, The Sports Bra launched a crowdfunding campaign called “Own a Piece of the Bra”, allowing anyone to buy equity in the company for as little as $250. The goal was $1.2 million. In roughly two months, it raised nearly $1.24 million from more than 1,400 people.

Nguyen, who worked as a chef before becoming an entrepreneur, knows restaurants and bars remain difficult businesses to scale up. But the fundraising push and planned expansion are her bet to continue the growth of women’s sports.

Competition is growing too: the number of women’s sports bars in the U.S. has risen to 27, according to Front Office Sports. Nguyen knows the first openings will be decisive. “Everybody’s watching, and if [the first five] don’t launch well, then we can kind of kiss the 40 [locations] in four years goodbye,” she said.

Still, the bar that skeptics gave two months to survive is now betting on a nationwide future, this time backed by the community that made it possible.

In that sense, the price of the process can change depending on the type of document and the age of the applicant. In addition, there are additional charges for expedited processing or for missing documentation.

How much it costs to process the American passport in 2026

When carrying out the process, it is necessary to pay two separate costs, one to the Department of State and another to the passport acceptance office.

According to the information available on the official website, in 2026 the costs of processing this international identification are:

Adult passport (16 years or older)

For these cases, the following are considered:

• Passport booklet: $ 130 application fee and $ 35 acceptance fee
• Passport card: $ 30 application fee and $ 35 acceptance fee
• Passport booklet and card: $ 160 application fee and $ 35 acceptance fee

When proof of U.S. citizenship cannot be presented, an additional payment of $ 150 may be required for a records search. In addition, those who opt for an expedited process will add $ 60 to the total cost of the process.

If renewing, only the application fee is paid.

Minor passport (16 years old or younger)

The specified costs are:

• Passport booklet: $ 100 application fee and $ 35 acceptance fee
• Passport card: $ 15 application fee and $ 35 acceptance fee
• Passport booklet and card: $ 115 application fee and $ 35 acceptance fee

If you need to correct the name on a valid passport, the cost may vary depending on the case. When the correction is due to a data error, the process is free.

Differences between passport booklet and passport card: information everyone should know

It is important to note that the only passport valid for international travel is the booklet. The card is used for identification purposes and for border crossings by sea or land to Canada, Mexico and certain Caribbean destinations.

Both documents are valid for a maximum of 10 years for adults and 5 years for those who apply for them while under 16 years old.

Those who want to know how to complete the process in full can consult the steps by clicking here.

The feet contain around 250,000 sweat glands, and excessive moisture can create an environment where bacteria thrive. According to Rowland, bacteria feed on sweat and produce an acidic byproduct that can create the characteristic sour smell.

Why vinegar may help

The explanation is linked to acetic acid, a component of vinegar. Rowland says white vinegar can help kill bacteria and recommends it as one of several at-home measures for people dealing with persistent foot odor.

The podiatrist recommends soaking the feet in a mixture of warm water and white vinegar for 10 to 20 minutes. Her suggested ratio is 1 to 2 cups of white vinegar per gallon of warm water, or about 3.8 liters.

The recommendation is primarily aimed at reducing foot odor associated with sweat and bacteria. It does not mean vinegar is a universal treatment for foot conditions or infections.

How to keep feet dry after washing

Daily hygiene is another key part of Rowland’s advice. She recommends washing the feet every day and, importantly, drying them thoroughly between the toes, where sweat and moisture can accumulate.

She also recommends measures that can help control moisture, including foot powder and antiperspirant, as well as changing socks when they become damp. Footwear also matters: shoes made with breathable materials can help reduce moisture buildup.

The law does not require Social Security to open a bank account

Federal law does not require a Social Security number (SSN) to open a bank account in the United States. This is stated by agencies such as the FDIC (the agency that insures deposits) and the CFPB (the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau).

What banks are required to do is verify the customer’s identity. That is why they ask for documentation, but that identification does not have to be the SSN: it can be proven in other ways.

What documents do banks accept?

Instead of a Social Security number, institutions usually accept a combination of these documents:

• ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number), is issued by the IRS for those who cannot have an SSN. Most banks accept it.
• Valid passport
• Consular registration card or consular ID issued by the consulate of the country of origin
• Driver’s license (U.S. or, in some cases, foreign)
• Proof of address, such as a utility bill or a rental agreement

Each bank defines exactly which combination it asks for, but in general, a passport plus proof of address (and, when they have it, the ITIN) is enough to move forward.

How to do it, step by step

1. Choose the bank and confirm its requirements for customers without an SSN (it is advisable to call or check its website before going)
2. Gather the documentation: valid identification (passport, consular registration card, or ITIN) and proof of address
3. Go to the branch or start the process online, depending on what the institution allows
4. Complete the application and make the initial deposit, if the bank requires it

A useful tip: compare institutions

Not all banks have the same policy. Some are more flexible than others, and credit unions usually show greater openness with customers without an SSN. Therefore, the recommendation is to compare requirements, costs, and fees before deciding.

In an interview with Vogue published in 2025, Hailey recalled the process she went through during pregnancy, labor and postpartum, where she said motherhood brought a profound transformation, both physical and emotional, and led her to discover a new version of herself.

Amid the speculation that circulated for months about the couple, Hailey explained that Jack’s arrival changed the dynamics of her marriage and the way she began to see Justin. According to her, becoming parents allowed them to discover a new side of her husband and view their relationship from a different perspective.

Hailey Bieber revealed how her relationship with Justin changed after becoming a mother

For the entrepreneur, motherhood became an experience that also transformed her marriage.

“It has been my greatest teacher so far,” Hailey said about this new chapter of her life, before describing the impact it specifically had on her relationship: “You see your partner in a completely different way” and added that Justin has a natural ability to play that role because “he is an incredible father”.

Hailey herself said the change began even before the birth of her first child because during pregnancy she understood that her life would no longer be the same: “It’s not going to be just you and your partner,” she recalled about one of the major warnings she received during the process.

Motherhood also changed Hailey Bieber: her body and a new version of herself

Pregnancy and postpartum also changed Hailey’s relationship with her own body; the entrepreneur said that during that stage she went through moments of great difficulty and came to experience postpartum body dysmorphia and self-criticism that, as she explained, she had never felt before.

“Every day I have to talk to myself, like: ‘Hailey, you had a baby. You created a human being. You gave birth to a human being. It’s okay. Be kind to yourself. Give yourself time,’” she said. She also explained that her body did not return to exactly what it was after pregnancy, her hips were wider and her breasts had changed: “It’s not the same body that it was before”, she said.

The model came to the conclusion that she also applied to her identity; it was not about getting back who she was before, but about accepting who she had become after becoming a mother: “You are no longer the same person you were before. You change from head to toe,” she said. At the same time, she said she felt proud of this new version of herself: “I like who I am much more than ever before” since for Hailey, making Jack her priority also changed her worries and gave her a greater sense of security and confidence.

Hailey Bieber spoke about Rhode’s success and how her place within the couple changed

While her family life was going through a transformation, Rhode also became a central part of Hailey’s journey. The beauty and skincare brand she founded in 2022 grew to make her a businesswoman recognized in her own right, beyond her marriage to one of the world’s most famous pop stars.

Hailey acknowledged that the company’s growth exceeded her expectations: “I never thought it would get to this point,” she said about Rhode and added: “In my wildest dreams, it has far surpassed all my expectations.” The brand’s expansion also changed the couple’s public dynamic; after Justin paused his performances and tours in 2022, Rhode came to occupy an increasingly important place in both of their public exposure.

Rhode’s president, Lauren Ratner, attributed much of the success to Hailey herself and highlighted her connection with consumers: “The main reason for Rhode’s success is Hailey,” she said. In this way, while Hailey goes through her new stage as a mother alongside Justin, she also continues to establish herself as a business figure independent of her marriage.

It all started in December 2021, when the 33-year-old man posted the video of the plane crash, and he implied it was an accident. ejected from the plane, with a selfie stick in hand, and parachuted down to land.

The video called “I Crashed My Plane” was a hit, and it amassed more than five million views. The original video is no longer available. But Federal Investigators later determined that the plane never malfunctioned and that Jacob had staged the crash, hoping for online fame.

The trick eroded his life and led to a federal prison sentence. In an interview made by The New York Times, the man said he regrets what he did: “It completely decimated my entire life,” he said. “I was homeless. I lost all my money. It’s been a hell of a climb out of hell.”

The instant regret he felt after jumping

In an interview with Good Morning America aired in 2024, Jacob said he “had no idea” that he was breaking the law when he jumped out of the plane.

“When I jumped out of the plane, I jumped and I’m like, ‘You just made the biggest mistake of your life’” recalled Jacob.

Ver esta publicación en Instagram

Una publicación compartida por Trevor Jacob (@trevorjacob)

The fake crash accident that decimated Trevor Jacob’s life

At first, Jacob claimed the plane’s engine really failed, but federal investigators said the crash was intentional. In 2023 he pleaded guilty to one count of obstruction and concealment with intent to obstruct a federal investigation.

The US Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California said, “He did not intend to reach his destination but instead planned to eject from his aircraft during the flight and video himself parachuting to the ground and his airplane as it descended and crashed.”

His pilot’s license was revoked by the FAA, and a judge sentenced him to six months in federal prison. With good behavior, Jacob served four and a half months at Lompoc Federal Prison.

The new chapter of Jacob’s life after the sentence

Jacob was released on June 12, 2024. He then started working as a skydiving instructor, construction worker and also trains in jiu-jitsu.

“Don’t try to chase attention and don’t try to chase fame and glory because it’ll leave you empty… just trying to be a good person to your neighbor and your friends and the local community.”, said to California’s Central Coast in february.

What is Form W-9

Form W-9 (its official name is Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification) is an Internal Revenue Service (IRS) document used so that a person or business can give their tax information to the person who pays them.

The W-9 is not sent to the IRS. It is completed and given to the company or person who will make the respective tax payments, who keeps it in their records and uses it to report those payments to the tax authorities.

Who must complete it

In general, it is completed by whoever receives payment without being an employee. The most common cases are:

• Independent workers and freelancers
• Contractors who provide services to a company
• Vendors of goods or services
• People who receive certain income such as interest, dividends, or rent

What it is used for

The W-9 has a specific purpose: to allow the payer to report those payments to the IRS, generally through a Form 1099 at the end of the year. With the W-9 data, the company knows in whose name and with which tax identification number it must report what it paid you.

For that reason, the W-9 is usually the step before the 1099: first you provide your data with the W-9 and, later, you receive the 1099 that summarizes what was paid.

What information the W-9 includes

The form is brief and basically asks for:

• Name and, if applicable, the business name
• The tax classification (for example, individual/self-employed worker, partnership, etc.)
• The address
• The taxpayer identification number (TIN), which can be the Social Security number (SSN) or the employer identification number (EIN)
• A signed certification that the information is correct

Attention: be careful who you give your personal information to

Because the W-9 contains sensitive information (including the tax identification number), it is best to give it only to someone who has a legitimate reason to request it: a real client, a company you are going to work with. If the request is suspicious or comes from strangers, it is advisable to verify before sharing that data.

In fact, the agency needs to be informed immediately if you or anyone in your family is sent to jail, prison, or another form of legal confinement.

What happens to Social Security benefits during incarceration?

For people receiving Social Security retirement or disability benefits, payments stop when they are convicted and spend more than 30 consecutive days in jail or prison. However, the suspension does not necessarily affect other eligible family members: monthly payments may continue for a spouse or children, as long as they are eligible and receive benefits based on the incarcerated person’s record.

An arrest alone does not automatically stop Social Security retirement, survivors, or disability benefits. According to the SSA, benefits are not suspended until a court or parole board cancels parole or probation and the person is confined in a correctional institution for more than 30 consecutive days.

How does incarceration affect SSI payments?

The rules are different for people who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI). The SSA says recipients will not receive SSI payments for any full calendar month they spend in jail or prison.

If an SSI recipient remains incarcerated for 12 consecutive months or longer, their eligibility is terminated, and they must file a new application and be approved again to receive SSI after their release.

How can benefits be restarted after release?

Being released from jail or prison does not mean beneficiaries should simply wait for their payments to resume. The SSA says benefits may be restarted after release, and recipients will need to provide proof that they have been released, such as official release papers.

The agency also has a prerelease procedure that can allow eligible people to apply for or have their benefits reinstated before their expected release. This process is designed to help benefits begin as soon as possible after a person returns to the community.

Unlike the spring change, when clocks move forward, the November adjustment gives people an extra hour. At 2:00 a.m. on November 1, clocks will move back to 1:00 a.m. As a result, the hour between 1:00 and 2:00 a.m. will occur twice in areas that observe the change.

Which states will turn their clocks back

The change applies to most of the United States, including states such as California, Texas, Florida, New York and Michigan. It also applies to Washington, D.C., Alaska and the other states that observe Daylight Saving Time.

There are important exceptions. Hawaii and most of Arizona do not observe Daylight Saving Time, so residents there will not need to change their clocks on November 1. The Navajo Nation, which extends into parts of Arizona, does observe Daylight Saving Time and is an exception within the state.

Several U.S. territories also do not observe the seasonal clock change, including Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, the Northern Mariana Islands and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Which clocks will change automatically

Most smartphones, computers and other internet-connected devices should update automatically as long as their date, time and time-zone settings are correct. The National Institute of Standards and Technology recommends keeping operating systems updated so devices can apply the current Daylight Saving Time rules correctly.

However, analog clocks, some alarm clocks, vehicle clocks and certain household appliances may need to be adjusted manually. A practical option is to set them back one hour before going to bed on Saturday, October 31.

What the time change means for daylight

The change will bring an additional hour of daylight to the morning, but it will also mean that sunset will occur about one hour earlier. In practical terms, there will be more natural light earlier in the day and less in the evening.

The change follows the federal schedule under which Daylight Saving Time begins on the second Sunday in March and ends on the first Sunday in November. In 2026, those dates were March 8 and November 1.

Could the U.S. stop changing its clocks?

The November 2026 time change remains in effect. At the same time, lawmakers continue to debate whether the United States should make Daylight Saving Time permanent. A bill passed by the House of Representatives remains stalled in the Senate, so it does not change the November 2026 schedule.

Among the main requirements are a valid passport, the DS-160 confirmation page, and, when applicable, proof of payment of the application fee. These documents allow the application to be identified and verify that the basic steps of the process have been completed.

However, presenting this documentation does not guarantee visa approval since the consular officer may request additional information or documents to determine the purpose of the trip, the applicant’s intention to return to their country, and their ability to cover expenses during their stay in the United States.

What are the 3 documents you need to bring for the B1/B2 visa interview?

The United States Department of State sets out the 3 basic documents that applicants for a B-1/B-2 visa, intended for temporary business travel or tourism, must present:

• Valid passport: it must be valid for travel to the United States and, in general, have at least six months’ validity beyond the intended period of stay in the country, unless there is a specific exception for citizens of certain countries.
• DS-160 confirmation page: After completing the nonimmigrant visa application form, the applicant must print and bring the confirmation page. The Department of State warns that the information on the DS-160 is used during the processing of the application and that it is necessary to have the confirmation page for the interview.
• Proof of payment of the application fee: it must be presented when payment of the corresponding fee must be made before the interview. Payment instructions may vary depending on the country where the visa is processed, so applicants must follow the instructions of the corresponding United States Embassy or Consulate.

These are the basic documents indicated by the Department of State for the interview, but the consular authorities may request additional documentation depending on the circumstances of each applicant.

What other documents may be requested during the interview?

In addition to the basic documentation, the consular officer may request items that help demonstrate the reason for the trip, the intention to leave the United States after the visit, and the financial ability to cover expenses.

The Department of State makes it clear that applicants must be able to demonstrate that they meet the requirements to obtain a visitor visa. It also notes that ties to the country of residence may be relevant to demonstrating the intention to return after the trip.

For this reason, although the passport, the DS-160, and the proof of payment constitute the basic documentation for the process, the applicant must be prepared to present additional information if the consular officer considers it necessary.

Do you need to bring a photo for the interview?

Not all applicants need to bring an additional printed photograph. The photograph is included in the DS-160 form during the application process and must meet the requirements established by the Department of State.

If uploading the photograph in the DS-160 form does not work properly, the applicant must bring a printed photograph that meets the official specifications. Therefore, the need to present a physical photo depends on how the process was completed.

In all cases, it is advisable to review the specific instructions of the United States Embassy or Consulate where the interview will take place, since there may be additional instructions related to the local procedure.

The discovery has been announced by the Greek Ministry of Culture and confirmed this Thursday by Angelikí Kottaridi, the archaeologist who leads the excavations in the region of Emathia.

Researchers have located the site in the ancient Macedonian city of Mieza, a complex of about three hectares that preserves teaching classrooms, banquet halls, a sports pavilion, an athletics stadium and a 200-meter covered running track. In this context, excavations in Mieza began in 2024 and this year will continue focused on the area of the sports pavilion and the teaching classrooms.

This is what the school where Aristotle educated Alexander the Great was like

“We are absolutely sure that this is the school founded by Philip II”, king of Macedonia from 359 BC until his assassination in 336 BC, the year in which his son, Alexander the Great, at the age of twenty, succeeded him on the throne, Angelikí Kottaridi tells EFE.

Among the ruins, coins, ceramics and four styli that ancient students used for writing have been found. These objects could provide new clues about the people who received training at the site.

In his work ‘Parallel Lives’, the Roman historian Plutarch recounts that Alexander the Great was a disciple of Aristotle between the ages of 13 and 16. During that period, the philosopher taught him ethics, politics, literature and natural sciences.

Two years later, the young man was already prepared to rule and to take command, in 338 BC, of the cavalry in the decisive Battle of Chaeronea, in which Philip defeated the combined forces of the Athenians and Thebans.

An elite school with classrooms and banquet rooms

Kottaridi stresses that Philip also founded other schools (gymnasia) in Amphipolis and in Aigai, the capital of the Macedonian kingdom, although the one in Mieza was “what today would be described as an elite school”, where the sons of the most illustrious Macedonians were trained for war with classes in tactics, strategy and physical training.

This year a complex of rooms adjoining the classrooms was discovered, including an antechamber and two banquet rooms. They preserve mosaic floors and raised platforms for placing couches that allowed for up to 20 diners.

The school also had a covered running track (xystós) of 200 meters, along which 64 Doric columns were erected. The space was used for physical training during days of extreme cold or heat.

In this structure and in other parts of the site, architectural and decorative elements similar to those of the Macedonian royal palace at Aigai (present-day Vergina), where Philip and Alexander lived, have been recovered, the archaeologist notes.

The education that accompanied Alexander in his conquests

According to Kottaridi, the “most impressive” thing about the discovery is that it shows that the “history of state concern for comprehensive and organized education” did not begin in democratic city-states like Athens, where only private schools existed in which philosophers such as Socrates or Plato taught, but in Philip II’s Macedonia.

“These gymnasiums, where letters, the art of war, culture and the Greek language were learned, will accompany Alexander on his military campaign and become the cornerstone of the Hellenistic period”, which spans from the conqueror’s death in 323 BC. until Cleopatra’s death in 30 BC and the subsequent Roman rule, she explains.

In 334 BC, Alexander the Great began the military campaign with which he defeated Persians, Egyptians and Phoenicians, consolidating in just one decade a vast empire that stretched from Greece to the Indus River valley and from Egypt to Central Asia.

Throughout that territory he founded dozens of cities, among them Alexandria in Egypt, whose most characteristic feature was precisely these schools, which helped spread Greek culture and language to “the peoples of the world of that time”, the researcher points out.

Installations of this type have even been found in places as far away as Afghanistan, in the ancient Hellenistic city of Ai-Khanoum, east of present-day Kabul.