In this way, qualifying people who want to travel to California (CA), New York (NY), Texas (TX), Florida (FL), Illinois (IL) or any other state can do so without going through the visa application process, as long as they plan a trip no longer than 90 days.

Which countries are currently part of the VWP

According to the official list shared by the authorities, the participating countries are:

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

“The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) allows citizens of designated countries to travel to the United States for business or tourism for stays of up to 90 days without a visa. In exchange, those countries must allow U.S. citizens and nationals to travel to their countries for a similar period without a visa for business or tourism purposes,” the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) says.

Which citizens of the aforementioned countries are eligible for the VWP

One of the fundamental points for eligibility is to meet a travel purpose that aligns with a B-type visitor visa.

In the case of traveling for business, examples of permitted activities are:

• Visiting business partners
• Attending conferences
• Attending short-term training that does not include compensation
• Negotiating an agreement

If done for tourism, the following are permitted:

• Visiting attractions
• Going on vacation
• Visiting loved ones
• Receiving medical treatment
• Taking part in social events
• Participating in musical, sports or any kind of events, as long as there is no payment involved
• Enrolling in a short recreational course

You cannot travel under this program to study, work or reside permanently in the country.

You will also be required to have an electronic passport and to meet the maximum validity requirements established for each nation.

ESTA application: a key step to travel under the VWP

The ESTA application must be submitted by all travelers who use the program, and for this they will need the following documents and requirements:

• A valid passport from a participating VWP country
• Acceptable photograph
• An active email address
• Home address and contact phone number
• Emergency phone and email
• Ability to pay the $40.27 application fee. Accepted methods include MasterCard, VISA, American Express and PayPal.

In total, this travel authorization will last two years, during which multiple visits to the country will be allowed. If the passport expires before that time, the authorization will only be issued until the international identification is valid.

Although meteor activity is expected to decline after the peak, observers across the United States can still look for shooting stars under favorable viewing conditions. Dark skies and a location away from artificial lights can improve the chances of spotting meteors.

When is the best time to watch the Orionid meteor shower?

The Orionids peak overnight from October 21 into October 22. However, the meteor shower remains active through November 7, according to NASA, giving observers additional opportunities to catch the display.

The best time to watch is generally in the hours before dawn, when the constellation Orion is higher in the sky. Moonlight, cloud cover, and local weather conditions can affect how many meteors are visible.

Under ideal conditions, the Orionids typically produce around 10 to 20 meteors per hour. The actual number may be lower outside the peak period or in areas with significant light pollution.

Where can you see the Orionid meteor shower?

The Orionids are visible from both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, weather permitting. In the United States, viewers should seek out dark locations away from streetlights, buildings, and other sources of artificial light.

The meteors appear to originate from the direction of the constellation Orion, which rises in the eastern sky during the evening and climbs higher overnight. However, they can streak across any part of the sky, so observers should look at a wide area rather than focusing exclusively on the constellation.

No telescope or binoculars are necessary. Find a spot with a clear view of the sky, allow your eyes about 30 minutes to adjust to the darkness, and look upward. Checking the local weather forecast can also help determine whether clouds will interfere with visibility.

What causes the Orionid meteor shower?

The Orionids occur when Earth passes through a trail of dust and debris left behind by Halley’s Comet. As these particles enter Earth’s atmosphere at high speeds, they heat up and produce the bright streaks commonly known as shooting stars.

Halley’s Comet takes about 76 years to orbit the Sun and last passed through the inner solar system in 1986. It is expected to return in 2061.

Although the comet itself will not be visible during the Orionid meteor shower, the debris it left behind creates an annual display that can be observed without special equipment. While the peak offers the greatest chance of seeing more meteors, the shower can still be observed as activity gradually declines toward November 7.

According to what was reported, the measure responds to the need for work to replace the track switches, which have been in use since the 1990s and have already reached the end of their useful life.

Train service changes until November 23: which routes are affected and on what days, according to MTA

Since last October 17 and until Monday, November 23, the J and M services stop running between Myrtle Av (Broadway) in Brooklyn and Manhattan as a result of the infrastructure review that must be carried out.

As for the days on which these changes will be implemented, MTA specifies that they will be every weekend during the aforementioned period.

How these two subway train services will operate during the affected days

From 3:45 a.m. on Saturday until 10:00 p.m. on Sunday, the services are set to run as follows:

J

There will be service between Jamaica Center-Pearsons/Archer and Myrtle Av.

M

Trains run every 20 minutes between Middle Village-Metropolitan Avs and Myrtle-Wyckoff Avs, as well as between the avenues Myrtle-Wyckoff and Myrtle Av.

During that time at Myrtle Av station, passengers on both services must use the platform used to go toward Manhattan.

The changes on which MTA will work until October 23

MTA will carry out work near the Marcy Av station to renew the mechanisms that allow the J, Z, and M services to switch tracks, as well as to inspect the condition of the road infrastructure and bridges.

The advice is to stay alert to any changes by checking the MTA page, where alerts are issued regarding planned changes.

To use it correctly, the product must be diluted following the manufacturer’s instructions and spray the affected areas without exposing the leaves to conditions that could damage them.

In addition, it is important to make sure the chosen soap is suitable for citrus trees and to observe the usage precautions to protect the health of the lemon tree.

What spraying potassium soap with water on the lemon tree is for

Spraying potassium soap diluted in water can help fight certain pests that affect lemon trees, such as aphids, whiteflies, and some mites. According to the University of Connecticut, insecticidal soaps are a useful tool for controlling insects and mites on ornamental plants, vegetables, and fruit trees, as long as they are used correctly.

These products are made from potassium salts and fatty acids that damage cell membranes in susceptible insects. Their action occurs through direct contact, so the solution must reach the pests for the treatment to be effective.

Among the organisms that can be controlled with insecticidal soaps are:

• Aphids: they feed on sap and can cause new leaves to curl. The University of California identifies these insects as one of the pests that affect citrus trees.
• Whiteflies: they are usually found on the underside of leaves and can weaken the plant.
• Mites, such as spider mites: some species can damage foliage and cause spots.
• Mealybugs and thrips: certain developmental stages are susceptible to these products.

How to prepare and apply potassium soap on the lemon tree to eliminate pests

To use potassium soap on a lemon tree, the product should be diluted in water and sprayed on the affected area. The ratio depends on the soap’s formulation and concentration, so it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

These are the steps in the treatment:

• Prepare the mixture: choose an insecticidal soap formulated for plants and check that the label authorizes its use on citrus trees and against the identified pest. Measure the indicated amount and dilute it in water.
• Place the solution in a sprayer: use a clean container that allows the product to be distributed evenly.
• Spray both sides of the leaves: cover especially the underside, where some pests usually hide. The solution must come into direct contact with the insects to work.
• Choose the right time: apply early in the morning or at dusk, when the product should remain moist for longer. Avoid periods of intense heat and direct sun.
• Check the results: inspect the tree after treatment and repeat the application only if necessary and if the label allows it.

Likewise, the University of Connecticut warns that insufficient coverage reduces the effectiveness of insecticidal soaps, and additional applications may be necessary if the pests persist.

Organized, for example, by post offices and libraries, these spaces allow the document process to begin at times of day or in places where there are normally no conventional centers available.

In this regard, the official website of the State Department publishes the dates when the different locations will be open.

Process the passport on Saturday, October 24: where the process can be started

According to the details in the shared calendar, the available locations this Saturday, October 24 to begin the process are:

Dena’ina Center (600 W 7th Ave)

• In Arkansas
• From 9 am to 3 pm
• The appointment is made here

La Habra City Hall (110 E La Habra Blvd)

• In California
• From 9:30 am to 2 pm
• The appointment is made by calling 562-383-4200

Georgia State University - Clarkston Campus (555 N Indian Creek Dr)

• In Georgia
• From 10 am to 2 pm
• Walk-ins accepted

Dena’ina Center (600 W 7th Ave)

• In Arkansas
• From 9 am to 3 pm
• The appointment is made here

Geauga County Library (16167 East High St)

• In Ohio
• From 9 am to 1 pm
• Walk-ins accepted

Kathleen Post Office (6316 Kathleen Rd)

• In Florida
• From 9 am to 2 pm
• The appointment is made here

Essex County Office West Orange (560 Northfield Ave)

• In New Jersey
• From 9 am to 3 pm
• The appointment is made here

What documents are needed to attend one of these fairs

The fairs are intended for anyone eligible to apply for a passport through Form DS-11. To attend, it will be necessary to:

• Fill out all required fields of Form DS-11.
• Bring the printed form.
• Provide proof of U.S. citizenship, it must be physical, no exceptions.
• Bring a government-issued photo ID.
• Provide photocopies of both the citizenship evidence and the photo ID.
• Have a photo that is considered acceptable for the process.
• Pay the corresponding fees for the type of passport being requested.

All details of the full process can be consulted here.

Researchers analyzed medical records and imaging data from more than 100,000 patients and found an association between the use of certain blood pressure medications and the presence of brown fat. Follow-up experiments in cells and mice showed that losartan increased brown fat activity and energy expenditure.

How does brown fat affect metabolism?

Unlike white fat, which primarily stores energy, brown adipose tissue burns energy to generate heat. Its activity has been associated with better cardiometabolic health, making it a potential target for research into metabolic disorders.

In the study, published in Nature magazine, researchers used artificial intelligence techniques to analyze PET/CT scans and identify brown fat in patients treated at a cancer center. They found that greater brown fat activity was associated with lower odds of cardiometabolic diseases and more favorable health indicators.

The analysis also identified an association between brown fat and a lower prevalence of anxiety and depression.

What did researchers discover about losartan?

After identifying a link between angiotensin receptor blockers, a class of blood pressure medications, and brown fat, the team examined losartan more closely. Experiments showed that the drug increased metabolic activity in brown fat cells and activated molecular pathways involved in heat production.

Researchers also treated mice with losartan and observed increased energy expenditure, oxygen consumption, and carbon dioxide production. These changes occurred without significant differences in body weight, fat mass, or physical activity.

Could losartan be used to boost metabolism in humans?

The findings provide a starting point for investigating whether losartan or related medications could eventually be used to activate brown fat in humans. However, the study did not demonstrate that taking losartan increases metabolism or promotes weight loss in people.

Further research is needed to establish whether these effects translate into clinical benefits and to determine the safety and effectiveness of this potential approach.

Losartan remains a prescription medication for approved medical uses and should not be taken to boost metabolism without medical supervision.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) enabled a paid alternative for those who arrive at security without an acceptable document: the Confirm ID process, which for 45 dollars allows you to try to verify your identity and board a domestic flight.

Confirm ID: the TSA identity verification alternative

Confirm ID is the identity verification procedure that the TSA offers, in exchange for a 45-dollar fee, to travelers who arrive at security without acceptable identification.

It began to be applied on February 1, 2026. Anyone who does carry a valid document does not need to pay anything: the fee is aimed exclusively at those who do not meet the identification requirement.

It allows you to travel by plane without a passport, Real ID, or another acceptable document

The fee applies to passengers who arrive at the airport without a Real ID or another acceptable document and who, even so, want to fly. That group includes both those who have not yet obtained a Real ID and those who forgot the document at home or lost it during the trip. Among the identifications that the TSA does accept and that therefore avoid the payment are the passport, the Global Entry card, and military identification, among others.

How it works

The process can be paid in advance, online through the TSA’s official channels, or directly at the airport. Once paid, the traveler presents themself at security with the receipt and is subject to additional identity verification and enhanced screening measures. The TSA itself warns that all this takes time: the process may take 30 minutes or more, so it is advisable to arrive with plenty of time to avoid missing the flight.

A key fact about the fee: it is nonrefundable, and it covers the traveler for a period of ten days, so a short round trip does not require paying it twice.

What happens if the TSA cannot verify your identity

Paying the 45 dollars is not a guaranteed pass to board. What is paid for is the verification process, not the result. If the TSA cannot confirm the traveler’s identity, they are denied entry to security and, therefore, cannot fly. In other words, the fee gives the possibility of attempting verification, but entry depends on that verification being successful.

The initiative, known as Casa de Sal, arose during the COVID-19 pandemic, when a mother and daughter were looking for an alternative to have their own home and found an opportunity in the waste accumulating in the area to develop their project. With experience linked to recycling and sustainability, they decided to recover bottles, wood, and other discarded materials to incorporate them into the construction.

The result was a home that transforms waste into building materials for walls, roofs, and other spaces in the house.

How the idea of building a house with 8,000 glass bottles was born

Edna Dantas and her daughter María Gabrielly Dantas drove the Casa de Sal project on Itamaracá Island, in the state of Pernambuco, during the pandemic, when they were looking for an alternative to have their own home and found an opportunity in the waste that accumulates on the beaches and other spaces in the area.

The initiative arose from the combination of a personal need and an environmental concern, since both wanted to build a home and, at the same time, make use of materials that usually ended up in the trash. Edna had experience in socio-environmental education and recycling, while Maria Gabrielly were linked to design and sustainable fashion, two paths that influenced the decision to carry out a proposal based on reuse.

From that idea, mother and daughter began gathering discarded materials to incorporate them into the construction and turn them into part of their home, in a process that unfolded in stages and allowed them to develop an initiative that combines the search for their own home with the use of waste.

They built a seven-room house with bottles and toothpaste tubes

Casa de Sal stands out for the incorporation of 8,000 glass bottles into its walls, a method that allows the reuse of discarded containers as part of the structure of the rooms. To move forward with the project, Edna and María Gabrielly also used reclaimed wood and pallets, while the empty toothpaste tubes were used to make tiles for the roof.

The construction was carried out in stages, as they obtained the materials and solved the various needs of the house, with reuse as the central criterion for making use of available resources on the island. In this way, objects that are normally thrown away found a new function within the house, from the glass containers incorporated into the walls to the materials used in other parts of the structure.

How they placed the glass bottles in the walls to take advantage of natural light

Unlike other constructions that use containers as decorative elements, Edna and her daughter incorporated the glass bottles directly into the walls of their home. To do so, they chose to place them vertically, a technique that allows natural light to pass through the glass and illuminate the interior spaces, according to Edna in an interview with the Brazilian outlet Metrópoles.

Before incorporating them into the project, mother and daughter collected and cleaned the bottles they found on beaches, in mangroves, and on abandoned land to give them a new use within the home.

Likewise, during construction, they faced unfavorable conditions where in the first stage of the project, they lived without a conventional bathroom and had to handle some everyday tasks with limited resources while the home was taking shape. In this sense, they faced prejudice for building on their own in a field traditionally dominated by men, but despite the difficulties, they continued with the project until they turned the recycled materials into their home.

As explained by the United States Department of Energy (DOE), this category includes microwaves with heating elements for browning food and convection models, which incorporate other cooking methods in addition to microwaves.

These appliances can be practical for those looking to prepare different meals without having to install several separate appliances.

How does the ideal 2-in-1 appliance for small kitchens work?

2-in-1 microwave ovens integrate different cooking systems. While the microwave function allows food to be heated and defrosted, convection uses hot air to cook and brown dishes.

Depending on the model, they may offer the following features:

• Microwave: Allows meals to be reheated and food to be defrosted.
• Convection oven: Uses hot air to bake and brown.
• Air fryer: Some units include this function to prepare food with little oil.
• Grill: Allows the surface of certain dishes to be browned.

One of their main advantages is that they bring together several functions in a single appliance, which can help free up counter space.

However, not all models include the same options, so it is worth checking their features before buying them.

How much does a combination microwave oven cost on Amazon?

On Amazon you can find different models of combination microwave ovens, with different features and capacities.

• BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1: Around $162.99. Combines microwave and hot air cooking functions.
• Toshiba 8-in-1: Around $223.99. Includes different cooking functions, including microwave and air fryer.
• Toshiba 4-in-1: Around $271.99. Integrates microwave, convection, and other cooking options.

Based on these models, the average price is around $220. Prices may change depending on offers and sellers.

What advantages does it have over a traditional microwave?

The main difference is the variety of preparations it allows you to make.

While a conventional microwave is mainly used to heat and defrost, a combination model can also be used to bake, brown, and, in some cases, cook with hot air.

This can be especially useful in apartments or homes with limited space, where having a small oven, an air fryer, and a microwave separately is not always practical.

Before choosing one, it is worth comparing its capacity, dimensions, functions, and price to determine whether it suits the needs of each household.

Which days in November there will be no classes in New York, Palm Beach and Albuquerque

The November calendar includes these key dates:

• Wednesday, November 11: Veterans Day, a federal holiday that honors those who served in the Armed Forces. The New York City Public Schools, Albuquerque Public Schools and the Palm Beach County School District will close their doors.
• Thursday, November 26: Thanksgiving Day, which is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. There will be no classes in any of the three districts mentioned above.

Then, there is a small difference between each district regarding Friday the 27th and the break during that week. On the one hand, the Palm Beach County School District confirmed that there will be no classes from Monday the 23rd to Friday the 27th of November and district offices will be closed. In total, students will have nine consecutive days of rest if counted from the previous weekend, Saturday the 21st and Sunday the 22nd, through the following one, Saturday the 28th and Sunday the 29th.

For its part, New York will close its institutions from Thursday the 26th to Friday the 27th and the final break, including the weekend, will extend to Sunday the 29th, making four days off.

Lastly, the break in Albuquerque Public Schools will begin on Wednesday the 25th and end on Friday the 27th, dates which, combined with the weekend, provide a five-day break.

What the federal Government says about the holidays on November 11 and 26

The United States Office of Personnel Management (OPM, by its acronym in English) includes both holidays in its official 2026 calendar. The agency identifies November 11 as Veterans Day and the 26th as Thanksgiving Day.

U.S. federal law recognizes both dates as public holidays established by law. Section 6103 of Title 5 of the United States Code lists the official holidays and expressly includes Veterans Day and Thanksgiving Day.

How to know if a school will be closed on November 27

Families in other districts that want to confirm the extension of the Thanksgiving break should follow the next steps:

1. Go to the official website of the school district.
2. Look for the 2026-2027 academic calendar (School Year Calendar).
3. Check the dates of November 26 and 27.
4. Confirm whether the document says Schools Closed, Thanksgiving Recess or an equivalent designation.

For Jono Pandolfi, it took two decades to turn his love for clay into a real business. Today, his handmade plates and bowls are used at top restaurants like Eleven Madison Park and Jean-Georges in New York.

“I think it’s safe to say that it’s pretty hard for a ceramic artist or someone who studied clay to build a business that’s bringing in over $6 million per year,” he told CNBC Make It. “I feel like I’m living the dream of a ceramic artist.”

The teacher’s side hustle ended up being a millionaire’s business

Pandolfi launched his company in 2004 as a side project and creative outlet, while he taught ceramics and worked for larger manufacturers.

“Working with my hand almost felt like a non-negotiable. Working a desk job didn’t find my personality,” he said.

In 2010, he lost his manufacturing job and decided to focus on his business full-time. That same year, Anthropologie ordered 400 of his teapots. “Anthropologie was the seed money that got this going for the second time,” he told Philadelphia magazine.

The order that changed everything for Pandolfi

The turning point came in 2012, when the NoMad Hotel opened in New York and ordered more than 6,000 pieces in a $100,000 deal. After that project, Pandolfi hired his first full-time employee and bought more equipment, and the business became profitable.

When the pandemic shut down restaurants, Pandolfi began selling directly to home cooks, and those sales now make up nearly half of the business. The company brought in almost $5.2 million in 2023, more than three times its 2020 revenue, and projected more than $6.6 million for 2024.

His studio, an old soap factory in Union City, New Jersey, across the Hudson River from Manhattan, now covers 30,000 square feet and has a team of about 38 people. Once a month, it opens to the public to sell pieces with small imperfections.

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Una publicación compartida por Jono Pandolfi Designs (@jonopandolfi)

The limits on the military version of Starlink, SpaceX’s satellite internet network, took effect Oct. 14. Ukrainian officials said they let Russian missiles slip through their air defenses. SpaceX did not comment.

The clash has pushed U.S.-Ukraine tensions to their highest point since Trump berated Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the Oval Office last year. It also shows how much one businessman can sway the war.

What did Elon Musk change on Starlink, and how does it hit the drones Kyiv uses against Russia?

The cap sets a top speed at which Ukrainian hardware can move and stay connected. Anything faster drops off the network. That hurts fast drones most, both those striking Russian targets and those built to shoot down incoming attacks.

Michael Kofman, a war analyst at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, told the WSJ that the limit is about 99 mph (160 kph). He said connections are currently failing below roughly 81 mph (130 kph).

As of Tuesday, Kyiv didn’t know whether full service would return. Denys Sienik, Ukraine’s top diplomat in Washington, said Ukraine was awaiting answers from the Pentagon and SpaceX.

Did Trump order the Starlink slowdown? What Elon Musk and US officials say

Musk wrote on X that “any limits on speed or usage are decided by the US military and ultimately POTUS,” meaning the president. Trump said Monday that he didn’t know who was responsible, “but I would like to find out.”

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the Pentagon hadn’t “pulled anything back” and that Starlink sets its own terms of service. Some U.S. officials told the WSJ that Musk acted alone.

But one person said Musk spoke with Trump and other senior officials before imposing the cap. SpaceX later pressed the White House for a shared message that both sides had coordinated.

Why are Elon Musk and Trump angry at Ukraine over Russia’s refineries?

Trump blames Ukraine’s strikes on Russian diesel refineries for high fuel prices ahead of the Nov. 3 midterms. Most analysts say the Iran war has done more to drive prices up.

On Oct. 10, Trump said Zelenskyy “better damn well stop” hitting refineries. Musk replied on X, “Zelensky has gone too far.” Four days later, Ukrainian drone operators began losing full access to Starlink.

Zelenskyy has also accused Washington of briefly cutting intelligence on Russian missile launches, which Secretary of State Marco Rubio denied Tuesday. That day, Zelenskyy went to Norway for peace talks with Trump envoy Steve Witkoff.

What mixing cinnamon, olive oil and orange peel is for

The purpose of this combination is to perfume rooms in a long-lasting and pleasant way, and help neutralize odors, without resorting to aerosols or artificial fragrances. It works as a homemade air freshener with slow release: placed in a corner, it slowly gives off a citrusy and warm aroma at the same time, especially useful in the kitchen or in enclosed spaces with a stale smell.

Orange peel concentrates in its essential oils a compound called limonene, which makes up more than 90% of the peel oil and is responsible for the typical citrus aroma. It is a volatile molecule, meaning it evaporates easily, and that is why it perfumes the air and helps mask strong odors, such as those left after cooking.

Cinnamon sticks, for their part, owe their warm, sweet smell to cinnamaldehyde, the spice’s main aromatic compound. And olive oil plays the most interesting role: those aromatic compounds are liposoluble, meaning they dissolve in fats and not in water, so the oil captures and retains them.

Since oil is little volatile, it does not evaporate quickly and acts as a fixative, releasing the fragrance little by little instead of all at once. That is precisely the key to why the mixture fragrances for longer than if the cinnamon and orange were used separately.

Step by step: how to make the mixture

The preparation is very simple and does not require cooking:

• In a clean glass jar, put a little olive oil.
• Add orange peels that have been previously washed and well dried.
• Add one or two cinnamon sticks, whole or broken.
• Let the mixture sit for at least four hours so the oil absorbs the aromas.
• Leave the jar uncovered in the corner you want to scent.

For a more intense aroma, it can be placed near a gentle heat source. The intensity of the fragrance varies depending on the amount of cinnamon and orange used, so it is advisable to adjust it to taste.

Why it is recommended

Beyond the result, the appeal is that it is a natural, cheap and readily available alternative to commercial air fresheners. It uses ingredients that are usually found in any kitchen, does not leave the air laden with aerosol chemicals, makes use of leftovers that are normally thrown away, such as orange peel, and allows the intensity of the aroma to be adjusted to taste, depending on how much cinnamon and orange are used.

Added to this is the fact that the effect is longer-lasting than that of a spray perfume, which evaporates within a few minutes.

The opening took place during an event at the Port Richmond wastewater treatment plant, in Staten Island.

What did the then New York City mayor write in the letter?

In 1976, then-New York Mayor Abraham Beame wrote a letter addressed to whoever held the same office 50 years later, in 2026. The document was placed inside a time capsule at the Port Richmond wastewater treatment facility, in Staten Island.

In his message, Beame reflected on the city’s achievements, difficulties, and expectations. According to the Mayor’s Office official statement, he wrote: “We are doing everything possible, despite a current period of government austerity, to leave you a legacy of a clean and beautiful environment”.

The letter was written during a deep fiscal crisis affecting the city. Despite budget constraints, Beame highlighted the importance of continuing to invest in infrastructure and environmental protection.

In what context did Mamdani open this time capsule?

On Wednesday, October 21, 2026, the now mayor of New York, Zohran Mamdani, opened the time capsule that had remained sealed for 50 years, as part of an event that marked the start of new modernization works at the Port Richmond wastewater treatment plant.

Inside, more objects were found besides the letter:

• Architectural and engineering plans corresponding to the plant expansion during the 1970s.
• The 1976 New York Harbor water quality study.
• Photographs of workers and newspaper clippings.
• American bicentennial commemorative coins.

Following his legacy and responsibilities as mayor, the opening of the capsule coincided with the announcement of new investments aimed at improving the plant’s operation, which began operating in 1953 and serves approximately 200,000 Staten Island residents.

What did the current New York City mayor announce?

Zohran Mamdani announced a US$185 million investment to modernize the Port Richmond wastewater treatment plant, with the goal of improving its operation, strengthening infrastructure, and ensuring continuity of service.

According to the official statement on the government website, the project includes:

• Modernizing electrical distribution equipment.
• Renovating the machine rooms, control room, offices, and locker rooms.
• Reinforcing the walls and raising the window sills to improve flood protection.
• Incorporating deployable barriers to reduce flood-related risks.

Who was Abraham Beame?

Abraham David Beame was an American politician from the Democratic Party who served as mayor of New York City between 1974 and 1977, becoming the city’s 104th mayor and the first Jewish person to hold the office.

His administration was marked by the 1975 fiscal crisis, when New York was on the brink of bankruptcy due to its high debt, accumulated budget deficits, and difficulties obtaining new loans.

His administration implemented a series of austerity measures that included budget cuts, layoffs of municipal employees, and reductions in public services. Nevertheless, despite the economic difficulties, infrastructure projects continued to be developed during his administration, including the expansion of the Port Richmond wastewater treatment plant.

Its design is part of the signage covered by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), the agency responsible for establishing federal standards for traffic control devices.

Recognizing this sign allows drivers to anticipate payment conditions before entering the lane.

What does the black-and-white sign with a hand over three circles mean

The black-and-white sign showing a hand over three circles corresponds to the M4-18 symbol (Exact Change Symbol), used in the U.S. to identify toll lanes that require the exact amount. Its official design appears in the Standard Highway Signs manual, published by the FHWA.

According to the MUTCD, the signs intended for exact-change lanes must include this symbol and indicate, except in systems that operate with tickets, the toll amount for passenger vehicles. That sign may include the legend EXACT CHANGE to reinforce the message.

What should drivers do when they encounter this sign on a highway in the United States

When a driver encounters this sign when approaching a toll station, they should check the amount indicated and verify which payment methods the lane accepts before proceeding. The FHWA explains that toll station signs must provide information on the cost, accepted payment methods, and the lanes enabled for each option.

The MUTCD defines the Exact Change Lane as a toll lane without a toll collector, equipped with a receptacle into which users deposit coins for the exact amount. In these lanes, it is generally necessary to stop the vehicle to make the payment.

The Federal Aviation Administration of the United States (FAA) states that external batteries, also known as power banks, cannot be carried in checked baggage because of the risk of overheating and fire posed by lithium batteries.

According to the FAA on its official website, these accessories must be carried in carry-on baggage and meet certain capacity limits in order to travel by plane.

Why is it prohibited to carry portable chargers in checked baggage?

Lithium-ion batteries used by many portable chargers can overheat and undergo a phenomenon known as thermal runaway, which can cause smoke, fire, or an inferno.

According to the FAA, this situation can occur when a battery is damaged, overheats, comes into contact with water, receives an excessive charge, or is not properly protected. It can also happen because of manufacturing defects.

For this reason, spare batteries and portable chargers must remain in the airplane cabin, where the crew is prepared to identify and respond to possible incidents.

The aviation authority also recommends immediately notifying flight personnel if a battery begins to heat abnormally, swell, emit smoke, or catch fire.

Which portable batteries can be carried in carry-on baggage?

The FAA establishes different conditions depending on the battery capacity, which is measured in watt-hours (Wh).

• Up to 100 Wh: Portable batteries are allowed in carry-on baggage, provided they meet the corresponding safety conditions.
• Between 101 and 160 Wh: Airline approval is required, and a maximum of two spare batteries per passenger is allowed.
• More than 160 Wh: Portable batteries of this capacity are not allowed on passenger aircraft under the FAA’s general rules.

The agency clarifies that airlines may set additional restrictions on the number of portable chargers and their capacity. Therefore, it recommends checking the airline’s conditions before traveling.

How should a portable charger be properly carried during a flight?

To reduce risks, the FAA recommends that lithium batteries be protected against damage and short circuits.

Among the measures passengers should keep in mind are:

• Keep the portable charger in carry-on baggage, never in checked luggage.
• Check its capacity, expressed in watt-hours (Wh), to verify that it meets the allowed limits.
• Protect the battery terminals to avoid accidental contact with metal objects that could cause a short circuit.
• Check the airline’s conditions, as some companies apply stricter limits.
• Remove the charger from the suitcase if it must be checked at the boarding gate, and keep it in the cabin.

In addition, damaged, defective, or recalled batteries due to safety issues must not be transported on the plane because of the risk of overheating or fire.

Fielder disclosed the call in a WIRED cover interview published Monday. He described it in a follow-up phone conversation held the day before the film opened nationwide on Oct. 16, and said it was the first time he had heard from Holmes in more than six months.

The film, codirected with Lance Oppenheim and distributed by A24, follows Holmes and her partner, Billy Evans, before she reported to prison. Holmes is the Theranos founder convicted of defrauding investors. The film premiered as a surprise screening at the Telluride Film Festival in Colorado in early September.

How did Nathan Fielder react to Elizabeth Holmes’ message from prison?

Fielder said he woke up on Oct. 9 to two missed calls. The voicemail transcript identified them as coming from Holmes in prison. A third call came in while he was still looking at his phone, and he picked up.

He said he understood that inmates can’t receive return calls, which is why Holmes kept dialing. When he asked how she felt about the film’s rollout, she told him she had heard about it but hadn’t read much of the coverage.

Holmes also talked about her children and shared some updates that Fielder said weren’t his to make public. She closed the call with the same three words she had used earlier. Fielder said he simply answered, “OK, thanks.”

He told WIRED he doesn’t know what Holmes meant. He said the unexpected call made it feel as if the story the film captures hasn’t really ended.

What is ‘You Can See Everything,’ Nathan Fielder’s documentary about Elizabeth Holmes?

The project began after Holmes and Evans approached A24 about documenting their lives, according to Fielder. Those talks went nowhere. Months later, Fielder heard about it and asked the studio whether he could meet her.

He and Oppenheim spent 34 days filming inside a small beach house, where Holmes lived with Evans and their children. Fielder said he had no plan going in and had agreed with A24 that the project could be scrapped if nothing came of it.

The production stayed secret for about three years, and only a few dozen people knew it existed. Fielder said he never intended to appear on camera. He ended up in the film because the couple kept drawing him into conversations, and he felt someone needed to push back on their version of events.

Fielder said his team stopped communicating with Evans near the end of editing, after what they saw as growing efforts to control the project. As of late September, Fielder said, Evans had not seen the film.

During these checks, each piece of baggage goes through scanners that allow its contents to be examined. If agents detect something that requires additional review, they may open the suitcase and inspect it physically, even without its owner’s presence.

The rules vary depending on the item and type of baggage, which is why knowing the current rules allows one to identify which objects are prohibited, which are restricted, and in what circumstances the TSA may remove them during an inspection.

What rules require the TSA to inspect passengers’ suitcases at airports in the United States

The TSA is responsible for screening passengers’ baggage before it is transported on commercial flights. This obligation is set forth in Title 49 of the United States Code, section 44901 (49 U.S.C. § 44901), which establishes that the agency must provide for the inspection of passengers and their belongings, including carry-on and checked baggage. The same provision requires that there be a system for screening all checked suitcases at U.S. airports.

The regulation also provides for the use of explosive detection systems and other screening methods, such as X-ray scanners and physical inspections that may or may not be random.

When can the TSA open suitcases during security checks

Although electronic screening allows baggage to be checked without opening it, the TSA may carry out a physical inspection when it needs to verify what the suitcase contains. According to the agency itself, if a piece of baggage triggers an alert during screening, agents may open it to examine the objects shown in the scanner image. If the baggage is locked and cannot be opened by other means, the lock may have to be cut off.

When a physical inspection is carried out, the TSA indicates that it may leave inside the suitcase a notice called Notice of Baggage Inspection, which informs the passenger that their baggage was opened and inspected. In this sense, this may occur even if the owner is not present at that time.

The procedure applies to each piece of baggage that requires additional review. For example, if three different suitcases trigger alerts that cannot be resolved by analyzing the images, each one may undergo a physical inspection.

What prohibited items can the TSA remove from suitcases during security checks

Restrictions on objects that may be carried on an airplane depend on the type of item and whether it is in carry-on or checked baggage. One of the central rules is 49 CFR § 1540.111, entitled Carriage of weapons, explosives, and incendiaries by individuals, which regulates the transport of weapons, explosives, and incendiary devices.

The provision states that unloaded firearms may be transported in checked baggage only if specific requirements are met, such as declaring them to the airline, storing them unloaded in a locked hard-sided case, and complying with the other applicable conditions. Loaded weapons and unauthorized explosives or incendiary devices may not be transported in checked baggage.

In addition, the TSA publishes an official list that allows passengers to check which items are permitted and which are restricted:

• Knives and sharp objects are generally not allowed in carry-on baggage, but may be transported in checked baggage if properly protected.
• Explosives and fireworks: not allowed in carry-on or checked baggage.
• Power banks and spare lithium batteries: portable chargers (power banks) and spare lithium batteries must be carried in carry-on baggage, not in checked baggage. Electronic devices with installed batteries have specific rules.
• Liquids, gels and aerosols: in carry-on baggage, the general rule limits containers to 100 milliliters (3.4 ounces), with exceptions for certain items. Other conditions apply to checked baggage.

It should be noted that if, during an inspection, agents find an object that is not allowed under those conditions, they may prevent it from being transported and proceed according to the applicable rules. The TSA also warns that certain items may require additional screening or may not be admitted if they trigger an alert or raise a security concern.

Affleck founded Interpositive in 2022 as its own sole founder and CEO. The company operated in “stealth mode,” without revealing what it was working on.

The first AI model of the company was built using its own footage, shot on a cloud soundstage. The goal is to use it for post-production to upgrade recordings.

An AI company built in secret by Ben Affleck

Netflix announced the purchase of InterPositive on March 5, 2026, but did not reveal the price. In July, the company confirmed in a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission that it paid about $587 million in cash.

As part of the deal, InterPositive’s 16-person team of engineers, researchers, and creatives joined Netflix, and Affleck became a senior adviser to the company.

What InterPositive’s technology does

InterPositive’s AI doesn’t create images from scratch but lets filmmakers build a model using the footage from their own production.

Then, the clips are used in post-production to fix problems such as missing shots, background replacements, or incorrect lighting.

Affleck said he created the company to protect the people behind movies: “I knew I had a responsibility to my peers and our industry, to protect the power of human creativity and the people behind it,” he wrote.

What are Netflix’s plans with InterPositive

Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos said that about 300 of its titles have already used generative AI this year, mostly in post-production, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Sarandos said that the tools also make it possible to include scenes that productions would otherwise cut because of their cost, such as crowd or battle sequences.

Still, he insisted that AI will not replace artists: “We believe it takes great artists to make something great, and AI is not changing that.”

However, although they share some properties, they are two different acids and do not act in the same way on all materials.

How do vinegar and lemon juice act separately in cleaning, and which is better?

White vinegar and lemon juice contain acids that can help remove certain types of dirt. According to the University of Georgia, both are considered mild acids and can be used to remove hard water deposits, rust stains, and some discoloration on metal surfaces.

White vinegar contains acetic acid, which helps dissolve mineral deposits, such as calcium carbonate residue left by hard water. It can also help remove certain residues and odors.

Lemon juice contains mainly citric acid, which reacts with some mineral deposits and makes them easier to remove. Its acidity can be useful against limescale stains and certain rust residues.

As long as the material and its coatings are compatible with acidic substances, these ingredients can be used to remove certain deposits from:

• Windows and glass surfaces.
• Shower enclosures.
• Faucets with acid-resistant finishes.
• Certain metal surfaces, avoiding sensitive materials such as silver in the case of lemon juice.

White vinegar may be a more practical alternative for certain household cleaning tasks, due to its availability, low cost, and relatively consistent acidity concentration. However, this does not mean it is more effective than lemon juice on all surfaces, since the results depend on the type of dirt, the acid concentration, and the material to be cleaned.

Surfaces on which it is recommended not to use vinegar or lemon

Although white vinegar and lemon juice can help remove mineral deposits and certain stains, their acidity can damage some materials and coatings.

For this reason, it is recommended to avoid using them on:

• Marble, limestone, and travertine: acetic and citric acids can react with the calcium carbonate present in these materials and damage their surface.
• Granite and other natural stones: they can affect certain finishes and sealants, so it is recommended to use specific products.
• Wood floors: the acidity can damage protective layers and affect their finish.
• Wood furniture: both ingredients can damage certain varnishes and finishes.
• Sensitive metal surfaces: they can cause alterations or damage some coatings. The University of Georgia specifically advises against using lemon juice on silver objects.
• Materials with special coatings: it is important to check the manufacturer’s instructions before applying acidic substances.

The American Cleaning Institute recommends checking product compatibility with each surface before using them, especially when it comes to delicate materials.

What precautions should be taken when cleaning with these acids?

The University of Georgia recommends taking safety measures when using these types of ingredients:

• Do not mix vinegar or lemon with bleach or products containing sodium hypochlorite: this combination can release chlorine gas, which is harmful to health.
• Keep areas ventilated: prolonged exposure to acidic substances can cause respiratory irritation.
• Use protection when necessary: especially gloves and eye protection if there is a risk of splashing.
• Avoid mixing different cleaners: some combinations can cause dangerous chemical reactions.
• Properly identify containers: label the mixtures and keep them out of the reach of children.
• Check compatibility with the surface: follow the manufacturer’s instructions and avoid applying them to acid-sensitive materials.

Known as the BCC or “laser visa,” and processed through Form DSP-150, it enables entry by land and sea to the four states that border Mexico: California, Texas, Arizona and New Mexico.

What the Border Crossing Card (BCC) is

The BCC is a laminated card, the size of a credit card, that works as the official permit to cross the border into the United States. It is the document with which, by processing Form DSP-150, Mexicans from the border area enter the country without needing a passport with a visa stamped in it.

It is specifically intended for residents of border areas and has, for years, been the most widely used document for everyday crossings between Mexico and the southern states of the United States.

Who can apply for the BCC

The requirements are clear and limited. The card is issued only to people who are Mexican citizens and residents and who have a valid Mexican passport when they apply. In addition, the applicant must meet the same standards as a B1/B2 visa: prove that their stay in the United States will not exceed six months and show ties to Mexico (work, family, property) that guarantee their return.

The process includes an in-person interview at the consulate, biometric data collection (photo and fingerprints) and a background check, and is handled through the U.S. consular sections in Mexico.

The BCC is used to enter the United States through land and sea ports of entry, but it is not valid for air travel, unless the person also has a valid visa stamped in their passport.

How far you can travel with a BCC and how long are you allowed to stay

The card does not allow free movement throughout the country. It allows a person to stay within a border area for a limited time, generally, up to 30 days per visit, as determined by the CBP officer, without needing to process Form I-94. That area varies depending on the state:

• In Texas and California: up to about 25 miles from the border.
• In New Mexico: up to about 55 miles, or up to Interstate 10.
• In Arizona: up to about 75 miles, or up to the city of Tucson.

What is the CP14 letter?

The CP14 is the first notice of balance due sent by the IRS and, in fact, the agency’s most common notice. It arrives when the taxpayer filed their return but left a tax unpaid, or when the IRS determined that there is an outstanding balance. The letter details the total amount owed, which is not just the tax: it already includes the penalties and interest accumulated up to that point.

The CP14 is the starting point. If there is no response, the IRS then sends other letters (such as CP501, CP503 and CP504) that escalate until eventually reaching more serious collection actions. But at this first stage, the tone is informational and there is plenty of room to resolve the issue.

How many days are there to act?

The CP14 requests payment within 21 days. For very large debts, of $100,000 or more, that deadline is reduced to 10 days. The exact deadline is printed on the letter itself, so the first thing is to find it and not let time pass, because interest and penalties continue to accrue while the debt remains unpaid.

Interest accrues daily and is calculated from the original due date of the return, not from the date of the letter; and the failure-to-pay penalty amounts to 0.5% per month on the unpaid balance, up to a maximum of 25%. That is why the sooner it is resolved, the less is paid.

What to do when you receive it

There are two ways to resolve the situation:

• Pay the full amount, through the IRS payment options at irs.gov/payments or from the taxpayer’s Online Account.
• If you cannot pay everything at once, contact the IRS to arrange a payment plan in installments (installment agreement). There are short-term plans, of up to 120 days, and long-term plans.

The University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service includes this practice in its household cleaning guidance. Its recommendations suggest grinding ice with used lemon, lime, or orange peels to help eliminate odors and maintain the appliance.

The method does not require mixing cleaning products or using artificial fragrances.

Why put ice cubes and lemon peels in the garbage disposal?

1. They can help reduce unpleasant odors

Food residue left inside a garbage disposal can break down and produce unpleasant smells. Lemon peels contain aromatic citrus compounds that can freshen the area and help mask lingering odors.

The University of Arkansas guide also recommends lime or orange peels, so lemons are not the only option.

This method can be useful for routine maintenance, but it is not a substitute for more thorough cleaning if odors persist. If the smell continues, check for trapped food or buildup in accessible parts of the appliance, making sure the disposal is turned off.

2. Ice can help loosen residue

Ice cubes provide a mechanical action as the disposal operates. As the ice is ground, it may help dislodge some residue from the appliance’s components.

The Arkansas Extension guide also describes ice as helping sharpen the blades. However, many modern household garbage disposals use impellers that push food waste against a grinding plate rather than sharp blades like those found in a food processor. Ice is therefore better understood as a maintenance aid, not a guaranteed way to sharpen every disposal mechanism.

How to use ice cubes and lemon peels in a garbage disposal

1. Prepare the ingredients: Gather a few ice cubes and used lemon, lime, or orange peels.
2. Place them in the disposal: Put the ingredients into the unit without reaching into the drain.
3. Run the appliance: Follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions and allow the disposal to process the ingredients.
4. Flush as directed: Use water according to the appliance’s instructions to help carry away loosened residue.

There is no need to add baking soda, vinegar, or other cleaning chemicals for this procedure.

Safety precautions when cleaning a garbage disposal

Even a simple household method requires care because garbage disposals contain moving parts that can cause injuries. Never put your hands or utensils into the drain while the appliance is connected to power or could accidentally turn on.

If an object becomes stuck, switch off the unit and disconnect its power before attempting to address the problem, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

It is also important to remember that ice and lemon do not work as a disinfectant for the garbage disposal. They can support routine maintenance and help control odors.

The provision is set out in section RSA 265:122, which establishes the obligation to wear a helmet for those under 18, whether they are riding a motorcycle or traveling as passengers. The rule does not extend that general requirement to adults, although it does provide for penalties for those who transport minors who do not comply with the requirement.

However, the fact that the law allows adults to ride without a helmet does not mean that it is a safe practice, since United States road safety authorities warn about the risk of suffering serious head injuries in an accident and recommend using proper protection when traveling on a motorcycle.

What RSA 265:122 establishes about helmet use on motorcycles

New Hampshire law confirms that adults are not subject to a general obligation to wear a helmet, an important exception compared with states that require all motorcyclists to wear one. In this sense, section RSA 265:122 expressly states that people under 18 must wear head protection when riding or traveling as passengers on a motorcycle or autocycle.

The rule also sets out responsibilities for those who transport minors who do not comply with this requirement. Specifically, subsection IV establishes that the driver who carries a person under 18 without the required helmet commits an offense.

These are the main points of the law:

• Over 18s: there is no general obligation to wear a helmet under this state provision.
• Under-18s must wear an approved helmet secured with a neck or chin strap.
• Drivers who carry minors may commit an offense if the minor passenger does not comply with the rule.

What risks exist when riding a motorcycle without a helmet

Although state law does not require adults to wear a helmet, U.S. federal road safety authorities recommend its use to reduce the consequences of accidents. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA, for its initials in English) warns that motorcyclists are overrepresented in fatal crashes and recommends wearing helmets that meet the standards of the United States Department of Transportation (DOT, for its initials in English).

According to NHTSA data, in 2024, 6,228 motorcyclists died in traffic accidents in the U.S., a figure that represented 16% of all road crash deaths that year. Likewise, the agency notes that helmets provide fundamental protection for the head in the event of an impact, and that is why an adult who can legally ride without a helmet in New Hampshire is not exempt from the physical risks associated with that decision.

These inspections make it possible to verify that the vehicle meets the minimum conditions necessary to drive safely.

Among the elements checked are the tires, which must meet specific requirements for wear and tread depth.

When are these safety checks carried out in California?

According to the California DMV, the safety checks are carried out before beginning the practical driving test to verify that the vehicle meets the minimum requirements to drive during the evaluation.

These inspections are carried out for those applying for a driver’s license for the first time and for other drivers who must take a practical test, including some cases of renewal due to medical or vision conditions.

In addition to the tires, the lights, brakes, mirrors, and other components are also checked.

What conditions must the wheels meet in order to pass?

According to the official California DMV criteria, each tire must have a minimum depth of 1/32 of an inch (approximately 0.8 millimeters) in two adjacent grooves of the tread. In addition:

• The wheels cannot have completely worn or bald tires.
• Using a temporary spare tire, known as a donut, is not allowed during the practical test.

According to the Official California Driving Manual, the tires must show even wear and maintain the minimum tread depth.

What happens if the required minimum conditions are not met?

The California DMV states that if any of the components included in the mandatory inspection do not meet the safety requirements, the practical test must be rescheduled.

The agency classifies these violations as mechanical failures, and the driving assessment cannot be started.

Among the conditions that can require rescheduling are:

• Tires with tread depth below the required minimum.
• Brake lights or turn signals that do not work properly.
• Damaged mirrors or mirrors that do not provide adequate visibility.
• Brakes that do not meet the established requirements.
• Faulty seat belts.

Rescheduling does not mean failing the test, but if the applicant cannot demonstrate that four or more of the checks included between points 9 and 14 of the official list are working, the evaluation is considered unsatisfactory.

“The TSA screening procedures are intended to prevent prohibited items and other transportation security threats from entering the sterile area of the airport,” authorities say.

In this regard, electronic devices must also go through a screening process to ensure a safe trip even when they are carried in carry-on luggage.

Flying with electronic devices in carry-on luggage: what the TSA screening is like that travelers must go through

According to what has been indicated by the authorities, during TSA screening all electronic devices larger than a cell phone will be required to be removed from carry-on luggage and placed together in an empty bin.

They will also be required to have no other items on top of them and will be sent through the X-ray screening. This may happen with computers, tablets, electronic reading devices and even video game consoles.

The agency indicates that hair dryers, electric shavers and electric toothbrushes are not on the list.

Once the screening has finished, if the authorities consider that there are no issues, all belongings may be put back away for boarding.

Important information about TSA screening and carry-on luggage

Electronic devices are not the only items that must be separated in this type of screening, but they may also be asked to be shown individually:

• Food
• Powders
• Any other item that obstructs X-ray inspection

On the other hand, it is also important to consider that products in containers of up to 100 milliliters may be carried, but they must all fit in a transparent one-liter bag. The authorities specify that only one bag per piece of luggage is allowed.

This procedure has specific deadlines that must be respected, especially when the changes allow an additional refund to be claimed or access to a tax benefit that was not included in the original return.

What is Form 1040-X and who must file it?

Also known as the “Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return”, this document allows a tax return that has already been filed to be corrected.

According to the IRS official website, it must be used by taxpayers who, among other situations, need to modify the information reported on the Forms 1040, 1040-SR and 1040-NR.

The changes that can be made include:

• Correct errors in the reported income, deductions or tax credits.
• Modify the filing status used on the return, when the rules allow it.
• Update amounts that the IRS has already adjusted previously.
• Claim certain benefits or make tax elections after the deadline, when permitted.
• Claim a refund for unused losses or credits that may be carried over from other tax periods, when applicable.

However, not all errors require the filing of an amended return.

Why is it important to file it on time?

Filing the amended return within the corresponding deadline is especially important when the taxpayer seeks to obtain an additional refund or claim a tax credit that was not included in the original return.

If Form 1040-X is filed late, the taxpayer could lose the right to claim a refund. If the correction involves additional taxes due, interest and penalties may also apply.

According to the IRS, to claim a refund, taxpayers generally have up to three years from when they filed the original return or two years from when they paid the tax. The deadline that gives them more time is used.

How do you fill out Form 1040-X?

To complete Form 1040-X, the IRS recommends having a copy of the original return, the documents supporting the changes and the instructions corresponding to the tax year to be corrected.

1. Identify the tax year: indicate the period to which the return you want to amend corresponds.
2. Fill in personal information: include name, current address and Social Security number (SSN) or taxpayer identification number (ITIN).
3. Indicate the original amounts: in column A, enter the amounts previously reported or adjusted by the IRS.
4. Record the changes: in column B, note the corresponding increases or decreases.
5. Calculate the corrected amounts: in column C, enter the final amounts after applying the changes.
6. Explain the corrections: use Part II of the form to detail the reasons for the changes.
7. Attach the necessary documentation: include the forms and attachments that support the changes, as applicable.
8. Sign and file: submit the amended return electronically, when this option is available, or by mail.

The IRS allows Form 1040-X to be filed electronically to correct returns for the current tax year and the previous two years, provided the requirements for using this method are met. Paper filing also remains available.

It is the Final Notice of Intent to Levy, known as Notice LT11 (or Letter 1058), and its arrival marks the moment when the clock really starts ticking. From that point on, the taxpayer has a limited time to act before the agency can take their money.

The IRS’s last warning before seizing

The LT11 is the formal notice with which the IRS communicates its intention to levy to collect an unpaid debt, and it also informs the taxpayer of the right to request a hearing. It is not the first letter that arrives: it is usually the last link in a chain of prior notices (such as CP14 and later reminders). That is why it is considered the final warning: after this, the IRS is authorized to move against assets.

The agency sends it by mail to the taxpayer’s last known address and, according to its own rules, is not required to confirm that the person received it.

One by one: what property can the IRS seize

Seizure is a legal seizure of property to settle the debt. Once the deadline passes without a response, the IRS can move against different assets, including:

• The money in bank accounts.
• Wages, through a withholding applied to each payment until the debt is paid off or the levy is lifted.
• Social Security benefits.
• State tax refunds.
• Other property, such as vehicles and even a home.

To levy, the IRS does not need a court order. That is why ignoring the letter is the worst path.

How much time there is to solve the problem and when it starts to run

The deadline to act is until the date indicated in the notice, generally 30 days, but that period starts to run from the date printed on the letter, not from the day one opens or reads it. If the notice sat in the mailbox for several days, those days are already counted. And there is one detail that the IRS itself emphasizes: that deadline cannot be extended for any reason.

That is why, as soon as the LT11 arrives, the wisest thing is to count the days from the date of the letter and not let time go by, because every day lost reduces the room to maneuver.

How to stop the IRS levy

Within that 30-day period, there are several ways to stop or avoid the levy:

• Request a Collection Due Process hearing (Collection Due Process or CDP). It is the main remedy offered by the letter: filed on time, with Form 12153, it suspends collection action while the case is under review by the IRS Independent Office of Appeals. At that stage, payment alternatives can be proposed, the account can be requested to be declared not collectible, or other defenses can be raised.
• Pay the debt in full, if possible.
• Agree to an installment payment plan (installment agreement), which once in effect can stop the levy.
• Submit an offer in compromise for those who qualify to settle for less than the total amount.
• Request “currently not collectible” status if paying would create a real economic hardship, which suspends collection while that situation lasts.

Cornell Cooperative Extension, in New York, recommends making use of these ingredients for different household tasks, from removing soap residue to freshening drains and cleaning the microwave.

What are lemon peel, white vinegar, and baking soda used for

Each ingredient has different properties. Cornell points out that “lemons are acidic” and explains that they can help remove grease, soap residue, and hard water deposits. Their juice can also be used to treat certain stains on countertops and clean copper and brass items, especially when combined with a little salt. The peel, for its part, allows you to take advantage of the citrus scent.

White vinegar is another alternative for household cleaning. Cornell suggests using it diluted in water to make an all-purpose cleaner. If the smell is too strong, lemon juice can be added to soften it.

Baking soda, meanwhile, stands out for its versatility: it can be used to clean pots, pans, tiles, and microwaves, in addition to helping control unpleasant odors from the refrigerator, trash, and shoes.

How to prepare them at home

Cornell ‘s guide includes several preparations to make use of these ingredients in various household tasks:

• All-purpose cleaner: mix 1/4 cup baking soda, 1/2 cup vinegar, and a gallon of hot water. The formula is intended to clean grease and dirt, as well as help reduce unpleasant odors.
• Drains: pour 1 cup of baking soda, then 1 cup of hot vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then rinse with 2 liters of hot water.
• Microwave: mix a few tablespoons of baking soda with water in a microwave-safe cup. Heat it for a few minutes and then clean the inside with a cloth.
• Greasy surfaces or residue: use lemon juice or diluted vinegar only when the material is compatible with these ingredients.

Why do they recommend using these ingredients to clean the house

The main advantage is that they allow you to make some cleaning solutions with common ingredients, use products already in the kitchen, and reduce the consumption of plastic bottles when they replace packaged cleaners.

According to the airport in an official statement, on October 19, 2026 a new phase of the Journey With AUS program began, which includes improvements to electrical, drainage, water, and telecommunications systems.

The project is part of a long-term expansion initiative that seeks to prepare the airport to receive between 30 and 35 million passengers annually, once the full set of planned works is completed.

What works began at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport?

The new stage corresponds to the project called Utilities Infrastructure Campus-Wide (UICW), aimed at expanding and modernizing the essential services that allow the airport to operate.

• Electrical systems: Installation of medium-voltage infrastructure with redundant systems to improve supply reliability.
• Drainage and water management: Construction of new pipes, retention ponds, and systems to manage rainwater and improve its quality.
• Telecommunications: Expansion of duct infrastructure for communication and technology networks.
• Climate control: Improvements to the pipes that carry cold and hot water for the airport systems.

These interventions will make it possible to support the development of new facilities and respond to the expected increase in airport activity.

According to the statement, the design of this phase began in 2024, while the works began during the fall of 2026 and are scheduled to be completed in 2029.

What will the airport expansion look like?

The infrastructure works are part of Journey With AUS, the expansion and modernization program for the Austin airport.

The initiative includes other projects, such as a new arrivals and departures terminal, a new central utility plant and the construction of Concourse B, a new boarding area connected by a tunnel.

According to Austin Mayor Kirk Watson, the current investments seek to prepare the facilities for a new phase in which the airport can serve between 30 and 35 million travelers a year, once the overall expansion is completed.

For her part, the airport’s chief executive officer, Ghizlane Badawi, highlighted that although much of the work will not be visible to passengers, it is essential to improve the reliability of services and ensure the long-term operation of the facilities.

How will the airport expansion works be financed?

The airport reported that the project will have different sources of funding, including its own reserves, current and future airport revenues, bond issuance, and federal grants.

Federal contributions include approximately $10.1 million from the Airport Infrastructure Grants program and $6.1 million from the Airport Improvement Program, both linked to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Sundt Archer Western will be in charge of carrying out this phase, while the company HDR will be responsible for the design.

With these works, the airport seeks to strengthen its infrastructure to support the growth of central Texas and advance its long-term expansion program.

The complex is still under construction and is part of a broader initiative that seeks to integrate luxury tourism with the island’s natural surroundings, known for its white-sand beaches and landscapes.

In this way, the initiative combines the expansion of the Nobu brand with a real estate business aimed at the high-net-worth market.

What the luxury hotel that Robert De Niro is promoting in the Caribbean will be like

Robert De Niro is involved in the development of a new tourist and residential complex in Barbuda, a Caribbean island, together with businessmen James Packer and Daniel Shamoon. The project is called The Beach Club, Barbuda, and its centerpiece is Nobu Beach Inn, a luxury hotel that aims to combine exclusive accommodation, cuisine and wellness experiences in a natural setting. According to Nubu Hospitality, the initiative expands the presence of the Nobu brand on the island, where a beachfront restaurant has already been operating since 2020.

According to Nobu Hotels’ official website, the hotel will feature restaurants, a beach club, spa, gym and various activities for guests with 36 rooms distributed across 17 private villas. The design aims for a low-density development, with buildings integrated into the landscape and two miles of Caribbean coastline.

The project is still in development, but the official Nobu Hotels fact sheet indicates that construction was slated for completion by the end of 2026, which is why the features released correspond to the announced plan and not to a hotel that is already fully open.

The beachfront residences that will be sold from US$12 million and the business behind the project driven by Robert De Niro

In addition to the hotel, the development will include 25 private beachfront villas with starting prices of US$12 million, according to data confirmed by Nobu Hospitality, which describes the homes as four- or five-bedroom bungalows connected by pools, gardens and walkways. In this sense, owners will be able to access the hotel’s services and will have the option of adding their homes to a rental program managed by the complex.

Likewise, Robert De Niro’s involvement goes beyond lending his image to the hotel since the actor is co-founder of Nobu Hospitality, the international brand that combines restaurants, hotels and residences, and takes part in the Barbuda project together with Packer and Shamoon.

De Niro himself explained that the intention is to create a place that complements the island’s natural beauty, rather than imposing itself on the landscape. The project seeks to attract both travelers who want an exclusive experience and buyers interested in acquiring a residence in the Caribbean with access to hotel services.

Since February of this year, the measure has operated as an alternative for those who cannot present the documentation required by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

How TSA ConfirmID works

TSA ConfirmID is an alternative procedure that allows travelers without an accepted ID to request an identity verification at airport security checkpoints. The service is voluntary and costs $45 per person.

According to official TSA information, the goal is to verify passengers’ identities and determine whether they may continue through security screening. The agency explains that it is a modernized process for those who cannot present the required documentation.

The system can be used when a person has lost their document or does not have a REAL ID, a passport, or another valid ID. However, it does not replace the obligation to undergo security screening or guarantee access to the boarding area.

The TSA estimates that the verification can take between 10 and 15 minutes, although it warns that the procedure could take an additional 30 minutes.

How to pay the $45 for TSA ConfirmID

The payment must be made online through Pay.gov, the federal government’s official payment platform. The TSA says that the fee cannot be paid in cash at the airport or directly to its agents.

Travelers must follow these steps:

1. Enter the official portal: Access the TSA ConfirmID form on Pay.gov.
2. Fill in the passenger information: Enter the legal name and the start date of the trip. It is important to review the information before confirming payment. Each adult aged 18 or older who needs to use the service must complete their own process.
3. Pay the fee: Pay the $45 using a bank account enabled for ACH transfers, debit card, credit card, Venmo, or PayPal. The payment may be made by another person, as long as the traveler’s information is entered correctly.
4. Save the receipt: Keep the confirmation email sent by Pay.gov, either as a screenshot or a printed copy.
5. Present the receipt at the airport: Show the receipt to a TSA agent to begin the identity verification procedure. The fee allows TSA ConfirmID to be used during the 10 days following the travel date shown on the receipt.

It should be noted that Pay.gov announced a scheduled outage for Treasury Department maintenance on October 24, between 18:00 and 20:00, Eastern time.

During that period, payments cannot be processed, so it is advisable to complete the process in advance if the trip coincides with those dates.

Can you fly without REAL ID in all 50 states?

The federal identification rule applies to domestic flight security screening nationwide. For that reason, passengers traveling between states must present an accepted ID or use an available alternative, such as TSA ConfirmID, if they do not have a valid document.

Since May of last year, travelers aged 18 or older must present a REAL ID or another accepted ID to pass through TSA security screening on domestic flights.

Documents that can be used include:

• U.S. passport or passport card.
• REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID.
• U.S. Department of Defense IDs.
• Trusted traveler cards issued by the Department of Homeland Security.
• Photo IDs issued by federally recognized tribal nations.
• Certain enhanced licenses and other IDs included on the TSA official list.
• Certain legal IDs that meet its requirements. Check the applicable conditions and bring the corresponding physical document.

To take advantage of its benefits and a better aroma, mixing it with lemon peels can produce an aromatic cleaner with few ingredients. Find out on which surfaces it can be used and which should be avoided because of their reaction.

What is mixing white vinegar with orange peels for

The combination of white vinegar with lemon peels makes it possible to create a homemade cleaner that helps remove dirt, mineral deposits, and some traces of grease.

White vinegar contains acetic acid, a compound that reacts with mineral deposits and helps dissolve them, particularly when it comes to calcium carbonate deposits generated by hard water.

Likewise, lemon peels contain limonene, a natural compound that is present in their essential oils. Because of its nonpolar chemical nature, this compound has an affinity for fats and oils and can act as a solvent and facilitate their removal, as well as scent the solution.

On which surfaces can this homemade cleaner be used

According to a University of California publication, the preparation of white vinegar with citrus peels can be used to clean:

• Glass doors: help remove stains and surface mineral deposits.
• Showers allow cleaning of some limescale buildup and hard water residue.
• Toilets can be used to remove dirt and certain mineral stains.
• Microwave interior: helps clean food residue and surface stains.
• Rust stains may facilitate the removal of some light stains.
• Cutting boards: the university includes this use, although it is important to clarify that the mixture does not guarantee disinfection.

It should not be used on surfaces such as marble, granite, or other natural stones, since the acidity of the vinegar can affect the material.

How to prepare the mixture of white vinegar with orange peels

The University of California shares a recipe that makes it possible to use citrus peels to make a homemade cleaner.

First, prepare the peels and place them inside a clean glass jar, and add the vinegar until it completely covers the peels. Then, seal the container tightly and let it sit for two to three weeks in a cool, dark place away from direct light.

After the time has passed, remove the peels and solids from the mixture with a strainer and fill a spray bottle halfway to dilute with water. Then, spray a small amount on a compatible surface and wipe with a cloth. Rinse when appropriate, especially on surfaces that come into contact with food.

When carrying out this task, it is not only important to use the product correctly, but also to ensure that the appropriate type of bleach is being used and that all necessary safety conditions are in place.

“Never mix bleach with other cleaners or disinfectants. This could release fumes that can be very dangerous to inhale”, it warns.

How bleach should be used to disinfect surfaces

To dilute bleach and use it as a disinfectant, the main recommendation is always to follow the instructions on the bottle being used.

However, if the bottle does not include a recommended preparation method, the safe mixture indicated by the CDC is:

• 5 tablespoons (1/3 cup) of bleach for every 3.8 liters of room-temperature water
• 4 tablespoons of bleach for every 960 ml of room-temperature water

It is essential to always use safety items - such as gloves - and maintain good ventilation indoors.

What type of bleach is used for disinfecting

The bleach intended for disinfecting is regular, unscented bleach that contains between 5% and 9% sodium hypochlorite.

The experts’ advice is not to use any bleach product for disinfecting purposes that does not fall within that range or does not specify this percentage.

How bleach should be used to disinfect

Again, CDC details that following the manufacturer’s instructions is always the best option, but if they are not listed, the bleach preparation should be left for at least 1 minute on the surface to be disinfected before removing it.

In addition, it is important that areas with dirt are first cleaned with soap or detergent and then disinfected, and finally hands should be washed thoroughly.

Can I save the bleach mixture for another day?

It is not recommended. Specialists explain that bleach and water mixtures lose their effectiveness after being prepared for more than 24 hours.

Among popular home remedies is its use in the kitchen sink drain, an area where food scraps, grease, and residue accumulate and can cause bad odors.

As an alternative to chemical products for keeping pipes in good condition, there are simple options that can help with everyday maintenance. One of them combines vinegar, baking soda, and hot water, ingredients that Cornell University Extension recommends in its guide to homemade cleaning products.

How vinegar, baking soda, and hot water work in cleaning the sink drain

Vinegar contains acetic acid, a substance that can help loosen certain mineral deposits and soap residue. In turn, its acidity can contribute to cleaning some surfaces and reducing certain odors.

For its part, baking soda is an alkaline compound that, when it comes into contact with vinegar, generates an effervescent reaction. This release of bubbles can help loosen some loose residue.

Hot water, meanwhile, can help carry away and finish removing some grease and dirt present in the drain. However, it is not advisable to use boiling water without first checking that the pipes and their connections can withstand high temperatures, since some materials may be damaged.

The combination of these three elements can be part of a kitchen sink cleaning and maintenance routine.

How to use vinegar, baking soda, and water to clean the sink drain

The procedure requires following some steps and taking the necessary precautions to avoid damaging the pipes:

1. Remove visible residue: take out any food scraps left in the sink strainer.
2. Add baking soda: pour one cup into the drain opening.
3. Add the vinegar: pour one cup of hot vinegar over the baking soda.
4. Wait five minutes: let the mixture work during that time.
5. Rinse: the guide recommends using two quarts of hot water, equivalent to approximately 1.9 liters.

It is important to note that if a chemical drain cleaner was used, you should not add vinegar or any other products: follow the safety instructions on the container without combining it with homemade ingredients.

The show ran for six seasons on Fox, from 2009 to 2015, and turned a cast of mostly unknown actors into stars. The new version, produced by 20th Television, doesn’t have a premiere date yet.

Murphy said in September that he had finished a script with co-creators Brad Falchuk and Ian Brennan and had been in touch with about 10 original cast members. Lea Michele is reportedly returning as Rachel Berry, and Heather Morris and Chord Overstreet hinted on social media that they’re in.

The announcement also revived something that has followed the show for years: talk of a “Glee curse,” a fan theory that links its tragedies and scandals into a single story.

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What is the so-called ‘Glee curse’?

It’s a theory, not a fact. Its premise is that the show is cursed because several people tied to it died young or ended up in public scandal, even though each case had its own circumstances.

The idea circulated online for years before “The Price of Glee,” a three-part Investigation Discovery docuseries, gave it a bigger stage in January 2023. A cinematographer interviewed in it floated the idea of a curse. None of the main cast took part, and many fans called the series exploitative.

Believers often point to a date. Rivera’s body was recovered July 13, 2020, seven years to the day after Monteith died. Off-screen controversies get folded in, too, such as the 2020 accusations from several castmates that Michele mistreated them on set, for which she apologized.

The cast has pushed back. Kevin McHale, who played Artie Abrams, wrote on X on July 29 that describing his late castmates’ deaths as a curse or a sacrifice was inhumane and detached from reality.

How did ‘Glee’ stars Cory Monteith, Mark Salling and Naya Rivera die?

Monteith, who played quarterback Finn Hudson, was found dead in his Vancouver hotel room on July 13, 2013, at 31. The British Columbia Coroners Service ruled his death accidental, caused by combined heroin and alcohol toxicity. The show later wrote his character’s death into its fifth season.

Salling, who played Noah “Puck” Puckerman, died by suicide Jan. 30, 2018, at 35. He had pleaded guilty in December 2017 to possession of child pornography and was awaiting sentencing.

Rivera, who played Santana Lopez, disappeared July 8, 2020, while boating with her 4-year-old son, Josey, on Lake Piru in Ventura County, California. Hours later, the boy was found asleep and alone on their rented boat, wearing a life vest.

Ventura County Sheriff Bill Ayub said investigators believed she had helped her son back aboard but couldn’t save herself. The county medical examiner ruled her death an accidental drowning. She was 33.

Without legislative changes, the money collected through payroll taxes would not be enough to cover all scheduled benefits. One possible solution would involve raising payroll taxes, although no increase has been approved.

When could Social Security run out of funds?

According to the 2026 Social Security Trustees Report, the Old-Age and Survivors Insurance (OASI) Trust Fund is projected to run out of reserves in the fourth quarter of 2032. This fund finances retirement and survivors’ benefits.

If that happens without congressional action, incoming revenue would cover approximately 78% of scheduled benefits, effectively resulting in a 22% reduction. The combined retirement, survivors, and disability trust funds are projected to deplete their reserves in 2034, when incoming revenue would cover 83% of scheduled benefits.

How could payroll taxes change?

Social Security is primarily financed through a 12.4% payroll tax on covered earnings, split equally between workers and employers. Employees currently pay 6.2% of their covered wages, and employers contribute the other 6.2%, up to an annual earnings limit.

An analysis by Advancing American Freedom, a conservative advocacy group, estimates that raising the combined payroll tax rate to 17.3% by 2034 could cover scheduled benefits without cuts. That would represent an increase of approximately 40% from the current rate. This figure is an outside estimate, not a tax change announced or approved by the SSA.

What could prevent Social Security benefit cuts?

Congress could address the funding gap by increasing revenue, changing benefits, or combining several reforms. The trustees’ report outlines the program’s financial outlook but does not prescribe a specific solution.

Until lawmakers act, the projected depletion remains a concern for future retirees and current beneficiaries. However, running out of trust fund reserves would not mean Social Security stops collecting taxes or paying benefits. Instead, the program would continue making payments using incoming revenue, which would be insufficient to cover the full amount scheduled under current law.

A Google Pixel 9 Pro XL user managed to recover nearly 10GB of storage after reviewing the Google apps installed on the phone, switching some of them for alternatives, and removing others that were no longer needed.

The experience, reported by Android Police, highlights how checking individual app storage can help Android users make better use of their available memory. However, the amount of space recovered will vary by device, depending on stored files, usage patterns, and app settings.

5 Google apps users can replace to free up storage

1. YouTube Music

YouTube Music was the biggest storage consumer in the case examined. The app had grown to occupy around 5GB, a considerable amount for a single music service.

Music apps can accumulate storage through offline downloads and temporary files created during everyday use.

For people who primarily stream music online, using a browser-based alternative may be an option.

Before changing apps, users should check how much space is taken up by downloads and cached files. If offline music is the main issue, managing saved tracks may also help reclaim storage.

2. Google Maps

Google Maps occupied approximately 800MB on the device in the report. The app’s storage footprint can vary depending on saved data, downloaded offline maps, and temporary files.

As an alternative, the user switched to HERE WeGo, a navigation app that also supports downloading maps for offline use.

The change may be useful for people looking for a different navigation service, although it is worth comparing features before leaving Google Maps. Offline navigation, traffic information, and route-planning options can differ between apps.

3. Google Chrome

Google Chrome was another app the user reviewed. In the reported case, replacing it with Brave helped recover up to approximately 1GB, although the actual savings depend on stored data and browser settings.

Browsing history, cached images, cookies, and other data can take up additional space over time. As a result, an app’s installation size does not always reflect its total storage usage.

4. Google Fit

Google Fit was also among the apps the user decided to remove from the phone’s setup. In this case, the decision was about eliminating a service that was no longer needed rather than achieving a guaranteed storage reduction for every user.

People who track their activity through a smartwatch or another fitness app can check whether they still need Google Fit installed. Before removing it, they should verify where their activity data is stored and whether it relies on synchronization with other services.

If the app is no longer used, uninstalling it when the device allows it—or disabling it if it is a system app—may reduce the space it occupies. The available options depend on the Android version and phone model.

5. Gboard

Gboard, Google’s keyboard app, was the fifth app the user chose to remove. Keyboards generally take up less space than music or navigation apps, but their files and data can still contribute to overall storage usage.

Users who want to replace Gboard can consider another Android-compatible keyboard that supports the features they need, such as swipe typing, voice input, multiple languages, and word suggestions.

Before installing an alternative, check its developer, requested permissions, and privacy policy. A keyboard can process sensitive information entered by the user, so storage size should not be the only consideration.

How to check which apps use the most storage on Android

Before removing services or installing alternatives, identify what is actually consuming space on the device. Menu names may vary depending on the phone manufacturer and Android version.

Follow these steps to review storage usage:

1. Open Settings on your phone.
2. Select Storage, or search for that option in Settings.
3. Review how much space apps and other file categories occupy.
4. Open each app’s information page to check its storage usage and, where available, its cache size.
5. Remove downloads you no longer need or clear cached files when appropriate.

It is important to understand the difference between clearing an app’s cache and clearing its data. Clearing the cache removes temporary files that can be generated again. Clearing app data may remove settings, sign-in sessions, and locally stored content.

There is also no need to replace every Google app. If a service is useful and takes up little space, keeping it may be the better choice.

Can users recover 10GB without deleting photos and videos?

The experience reported by Android Police shows that reviewing installed apps can help reclaim a substantial amount of storage, but it does not guarantee that every user will free up 10GB by making the same changes.

In the reported case, YouTube Music accounted for most of the recovered space. The results depend on individual usage. A phone with large music downloads, offline maps, and accumulated app data may offer more opportunities to reclaim space than one with recently installed apps.

The best approach is to check how much storage each service actually uses and start with the biggest space consumers. This can help users free up room without deleting personal photos, documents, or other files they want to keep.

For many families near New York City, one of the biggest surprises comes from New Jersey’s laws. The state is one of only five that still charge an inheritance tax paid by the heir who receives the money or property.

The state eliminated its estate tax back in 2018, but the inheritance tax is still in effect. Contrary to what people may assume, brothers and sisters are not exempt.

How much do siblings pay for inheriting in New Jersey

Brothers and sisters, along with sons-in-law and daughters-in-law, are “Class C” beneficiaries. The first $25,000 is tax-free. After that, the rates are:

• 11% on the next $1,075,000.
• 13% on the next $300,000.
• 14% on the next $300,000.
• 16% on anything above $1.7 million.

Therefore, a sibling who inherits $100,000 pays nothing on the first $25,000, but then the remaining $75,000 comes with a tax bill of $8,250.

Nieces, nephews, and friends have to pay even more on their inheritance

Nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends fall into “Class D.” Therefore, they pay 15% on the first $700,000 and 16% on anything above that.

Class D heirs don’t have a $25,000 exemption, but if they receive less than $500, no tax is due.

Who can inherit in New Jersey without paying

According to the New Jersey Division of Taxation, “Class A” beneficiaries pay nothing, no matter how much they inherit.

This group includes:

• Spouses, civil union partners, and domestic partners.
• Children, stepchildren, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
• Parents and grandparents.

Inheritances left to charities, religious institutions, and schools are also exempt.

Because each case is different, families who plan to leave money to siblings or other relatives should consult an estate planning attorney in advance.

This is the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) aimed at workers and families with low or moderate incomes, and the amount varies depending on their income, marital status, and number of qualifying children.

Who could receive refunds of up to US$7,316?

According to the official IRS amounts, for tax year 2026, taxpayers with two qualifying children will be able to access a maximum credit of US$7,316.

The requirements to receive this benefit are:

• Have income from work, either as employees or self-employed workers.
• Have a valid Social Security Number (SSN) for work.
• Be U.S. citizens or resident aliens throughout the entire tax year.
• Not file Form 2555, which applies to income earned abroad.
• Meet the income limits established according to your marital status and number of qualifying children.

In the case of taxpayers with two qualifying children, the adjusted gross income and earned income must be less than US$58,629 for single filers or US$65,899 for married filing jointly.

The amount of US$7,316 is the maximum that can be received for two children, but it depends on the person’s income and tax situation.

What requirements must children meet to be “qualifying”?

The IRS sets four main criteria to determine whether a child can be considered eligible to claim the EITC.

• Relationship: must be a son, stepchild, adopted child, eligible foster child, sibling, half-sibling, grandchild, nephew, or other relative who meets the permitted relationships.
• Age: must be under 19, or under 24 if studying full time for at least five months of the year. There is no age limit when the child has a total and permanent disability.
• Residence: must have lived with the taxpayer in the United States for more than half of the tax year.
• Joint return: cannot file a joint return with their spouse, except for certain exceptions related to claiming refunds.

Additionally, they must have a valid SSN and cannot be claimed as a child by more than one taxpayer.

When should Form 1040 be filed?

To claim the EITC corresponding to income earned during 2026, taxpayers must file their federal tax return in 2027.

The general deadline to file Form 1040 is April 15, 2027, according to the IRS calendar.

Those who apply for this benefit must file:

• Form 1040 or 1040-SR: to report their income and claim the credit.
• Schedule EIC is required when claiming the benefit for one or more qualifying children.

The IRS clarifies that eligible people may claim the credit even when their income does not require them to file a federal return.

EITC refunds cannot be issued until after mid-February due to federal provisions for verifying claims for fraud.

The actress bought the property in 2001 for $2.6 million, according to property records reported by Mansion Global. In 2019, she sold it for $4.55 million to another actress: Annie Potts, according to the Los Angeles Times.

A lakeside house with its own dock transferred between Hollywood actresses

The home’s biggest attraction is outside. The garden is spread over three levels that go down and lead to a private dock on the lake.

The outdoor space also includes a brick patio with a custom-built gazebo, an outdoor kitchen, a fire pit, and a pool with a spa. The front of the house is framed by a white picket fence and a lawn with a fountain.

The lake house spans 4,333 feet with five bedrooms and four and a half bathrooms.

A quick sale for the lake house at $4.55 million

Dunst listed the house in June 2019 for $4.7 million, and it went into contract just nine days later. The sale closed in September for $4.55 million, almost $2 million more than she had paid.

The buyer, Annie Potts, who played Janine Melnitz in the original Ghostbusters movies, already had history in the area. She previously sold another home in Toluca Lake for $3.875 million.

What began in 1968 as a personal project ended up becoming the Beer Can House, a Houston, Texas, structure decorated with more than 50,000 cans -according to an estimate by Ripley’s Believe It or Not!- and a garden full of details made with reusable materials. The transformation took him 18 years, and today the place is preserved as an attraction open to the public.

How a retiree transformed his house with more than 50,000 beer cans

The project arose, in part, from his refusal to waste materials and his desire to alter the environment of his home. According to the story published by the organization that preserves the property, The Orange Show Center for Visionary Art, Milkovisch accumulated so many empty cans that he had containers stored in the attic and the garage.

Instead of throwing them away, he began using them as siding. Over the next 18 years, he incorporated thousands of aluminum containers into the facade and added decorations made from different parts of the cans.

The garden also became an extension of his work. Milkovisch embedded marbles, stones, and fragments of glass into concrete blocks, in addition to using redwood and metal pieces to create ornamental details. He even modified the fence, where he inserted marbles into the spaces he had drilled.

One of the most striking elements was the curtains and garlands made from ring pulls and other parts of the containers. Some were left hanging from the roof eaves and moved with the wind, which added sound and movement to the structure.

In 2001, The Orange Show Center for Visionary Art acquired the house with the purpose of preserving it as a folk art monument. The property was also recognized by Time magazine, which included it among the 50 best roadside attractions in 2010.

Can the Beer Can House in Houston be visited?

Yes. The Beer Can House is preserved as an attraction open to the public at 222 Malone Street, Houston, Texas, 77007. The information provided by The Orange Show Center for Visionary Art indicates that admission is free and that the site is open Wednesday through Sunday, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

How much coffee is considered “moderate”

The starting point is the dose. According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, moderate consumption is around 3 to 5 cups per day, or up to about 400 milligrams of caffeine, an amount considered safe for most healthy adults. It is a broad range that leaves room for morning and afternoon coffee without entering excessive territory.

What effects does it have on the body

At that moderate range, the evidence associates coffee with several positive effects. According to specialists from the T.H. Chan School of Public Health at Harvard, moderate consumption is linked to a lower risk of type 2 diabetes and some types of cancer. The explanation they propose lies in its composition: coffee, both regular and decaffeinated, contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds that could be behind those benefits.

A study coauthored by Derrick Alperet, a researcher in the Department of Nutrition at that institution, found that drinking four cups of coffee a day, without cream or sugar, was associated with a reduction of around 4% in body fat. This is an association, not a proven cause-and-effect relationship, but it points in a favorable direction.

Caffeine also plays a role on another front: according to Elizabeth Mostofsky, an instructor in Harvard’s Department of Epidemiology, it can block brain receptors associated with pain and enhance the effect of some pain relievers, which is why it appears in several headache medications.

What really matters: how you drink it

The benefits are associated with coffee itself, not with what is added to it. Alperet himself pointed out that coffee adds to “a healthy diet made up of fruits, vegetables, fish, and whole grains, with less sugar, artificially sweetened beverages, and red and processed meats”.

In other words, black coffee or coffee with a little milk is very different from one loaded with sugar, cream, and syrups, which add calories and sugars capable of neutralizing the good. The body fat study, in fact, found the effect precisely in coffee taken without cream or sugar.

The specialists explain that it will be the weather perfect for moving forward with projects, planning outdoor activities and taking advantage of trips, outings or any other plan that requires good weather, given that these conditions will last until the end of the month.

Goodbye to rain and storms until the end of October: what experts predict and for which areas

According to information from AccuWeather specialists, much of the East of the country, especially the Northeast, will be marked by an atmospheric block, which will make clear days and rising temperatures prevail during the afternoon, as expected for autumn.

However, it is warned that at night the dry weather and clear conditions will allow temperatures to drop significantly. On this point, the National Weather Service of the United States details that “due to clear skies at night, there is the possibility of frost and freezing in numerous areas”

It is indicated that the conditions will be especially favorable from southern New England, crossing northwestern New Jersey to central Pennsylvania and also reaching the Shenandoah Valley and Blue Ridge Mountain regions.

They warn of a cold front that will arrive next week

For its part, specialists anticipated that a cold front could reach the Northeast and certain parts of the South at the beginning of next week, so isolated showers may appear and conditions may also arise for temperatures to drop temporarily, but it is specified that this will only happen for a brief period.

The result is a sweet, warm scent that can fill the house for hours. Some call it “simmer pot” or stovetop potpourri.

Why does the combination of orange peels and cinnamon rolls work so good?

The secret is in the peel, not the juice. The skin of an orange is full of aromatic oils, and heat releases them into the air along with the steam. A study published in the FAO’s AGRIS database found that more than 90% of orange peel oil is limonene, the compound behind the citrus smell.

Cinnamon adds a warmer, spicier note. According to research from the University of Valencia, cinnamaldehyde, which gives cinnamon its characteristic aroma, makes up about 68% of the oil in cinnamon bark.

How to do the orange peel with cinnamon trick

• Put the peels of one or two oranges in a saucepan with 2 or 3 cinnamon sticks.
• Cover with 3 to 4 cups of water.
• Bring to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer, uncovered.
• Add water about every 30 minutes, so the pot never runs dry.

You can also add cloves, star anise, apple peels, fresh ginger, or rosemary. The mix can be kept in the fridge and reused the next day.

What it’s useful for

• Making the house smell good without candles or aerosol sprays.
• Covering cooking smells, like fish, fried food or onions.
• Welcoming guests before a fall dinner or Thanksgiving.
• Giving a second use to peels that would end up in the trash.

The ideal is to replace the preparation with a new one when the fragrance begins to fade.

The agency has already announced that benefits will increase by 3.6% in 2027. However, recipients who want to view their personalized notice online should make sure their my Social Security account is set up and that they have opted into paperless notifications by the deadline.

What is the November deadline for Social Security beneficiaries?

The November 18 deadline applies to beneficiaries who want to receive their COLA notice electronically rather than wait for a paper letter in the mail.

According to the SSA, people with a personal my Social Security account can access their personalized notice through the account’s Message Center. The notice provides the new benefit amount and information about any deductions.

Beneficiaries who are not enrolled in electronic notices will receive their COLA information by mail in December. November 18 is not a deadline to apply for the increase or receive the money; it is the cutoff to sign up for digital notices to access the information online.

Recipients can create or access their account through the official my Social Security website.

How much will Social Security payments increase in 2027?

The SSA announced on October 14 that Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments will rise by 3.6% in 2027. The annual cost-of-living adjustment is designed to help benefits keep pace with inflation.

The agency estimates that the increase will affect approximately 76 million people across Social Security and SSI programs. Average retirement benefits are expected to rise by about $75 per month.

The adjustment will not produce the same dollar increase for every recipient. The actual change depends on each person’s current benefit amount and applicable deductions.

When will beneficiaries receive the higher payments?

The 3.6% COLA will take effect at different times depending on the program.

• Social Security retirement, survivor and disability benefits: The increase will apply to benefits payable in January 2027.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): The higher payment will begin on December 31, 2026, because SSI payments are generally issued at the beginning of the month.
• COLA notices: Beneficiaries enrolled in electronic notices can check their personalized information online starting in late November. Those who receive paper notices will get them by mail in December.

Some people receive both Social Security and SSI, so their payment schedules and adjustments may differ.

How to check the 2027 Social Security increase online

Beneficiaries who want to view their new payment amount online should take the following steps:

1. Visit the official my Social Security portal.
2. Sign in to an existing account or create one if necessary.
3. Make sure electronic notices or paperless communications are enabled by November 18, 2026.
4. Check the Message Center for the personalized COLA notice when it becomes available.

The SSA recommends using the online account to access the notice securely and avoid waiting for a letter to arrive. Recipients should review the notice carefully because the final amount may reflect deductions as well as the annual increase.

California, Washington, and Nevada agree, although with small differences regarding how it is applied, that older people cannot complete the renewal process 100% remotely but will instead have to do part or all of the process by another means.

What California says about renewing a driver’s license after 70

According to the official information shared by the DMV, those who are 70 years old or older must renew their driver’s license in person every five years.

The agency sends a renewal notice 60 days before the license expires. The application can be started online, but then it will be necessary to visit a physical office with all the corresponding documentation in order to complete the process.

What Nevada says about renewing a driver’s license after 70

In the case of Nevada’s DMV, a driver’s license can be renewed online up to age 70, but from age 71 onward, one is no longer eligible to renew online.

The options are to renew by mail, if eligible, to meet the remaining requirements; by submitting a physical evaluation form completed by the doctor; or in person.

What Washington says about renewing a driver’s license after 70

The Washington Department of Licensing states that people aged 70 or older are required to process a driver’s license in person.

The advice in these cases is to make an appointment to visit the licensing office, although this is not a mandatory requirement.

Driving tips for older adults

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, regulated by the Department of Transportation, advises all older adults must:

• Pay attention to their physical limitations and how they can affect driving
• Listen to the people closest to them
• Raise any doubts related to driving abilities with their doctor so that interactions or side effects of medications can be evaluated in case they are being taken
• Stay up to date on safe driving practices
• Plan alternatives for getting around for when it is considered that giving up the wheel is the best option.

Among them is a washing machine trick that is easy to apply and can make a difference: leaving the door open when the wash is finished.

Why experts advise leaving the washing machine door open when the wash is finished

The EPA advice is to leave the washing machine door open after using it so that all the moisture from the wash can evaporate. This is a way to prevent mold, which can damage the appliance and cause bad odors.

Other home tricks experts recommend for the washing machine

In order to save water and energy, the EPA also advises:

• Do full-load washes whenever possible
• Avoid prewash or extra rinse cycles unless they are considered absolutely necessary
• Try to have the washing machine use cold water as much as possible
• Avoid rinsing with hot water
• Choose products certified as Energy Star which use less water and energy compared with other options

Removing common stains from clothing: what is the expert advice?

To complement a good clothes wash, Mississippi State University provides a guide that can be used to know how to remove common stains that we may notice on clothing, including:

Drinks

It is advised to soak the garment in cold water, pre-treat it with stain remover before washing with liquid laundry detergent, or use powdered detergent with water.

Grass

Pre-treat with a bar stain remover or an enzymatic product. If the stain does not come out, the advice is to mix alcohol with two parts water.

Grease

In this case, one of the recommendations is to use spray stain remover, liquid laundry detergent, or detergent booster.

Blood

The clothing should be soaked for 30 minutes, and then detergent should be applied to the stain to rinse and wash it.

A general recommendation from the institution is never to put the garment in the dryer until you are sure the stain has been completely removed.

Although this last option is one of the most practical, certain requirements must be met in order to access the online process, which are not only related to documents but also to the applicant’s age, which cannot be under 25.

Renewing a U.S. passport online: those under 25 cannot do it

To be eligible to renew the American passport online, it is necessary:

• The passport to be updated is or was valid for 10 years
• It is due to expire in 1 year or that it expired less than 5 years ago
• The applicant is 25 years old or older
• They are not changing their personal information such as name or sex
• They will not travel for at least 6 weeks from the date they submit the application
• Be in a U.S. state or territory at the time of submitting the application
• The passport is not damaged, mutilated, or reported as lost or stolen

Once the application is submitted, the American international ID being renewed will be canceled and cannot be used to travel outside the country.

What documents are needed before being able to carry out this online process?

If all the requirements to renew online are met, it will be necessary to have:

• The old passport to be renewed
• A credit or debit card to pay the renewal fees
• A digital passport-size photo
• Basic personal information, such as social security number and emergency contact

The process can be started from the access shared by the agency.

Does an expired passport have any use once it has been canceled?

The authorities explain that expired passports can still be used as proof of citizenship, so those who renew under this option do not need to hand in their copy.

Interest in this mixture is due to the properties of its components, since vinegar contains acetic acid, while orange peel provides aromatic compounds typical of citrus fruits. The University of Florida, through its Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS), includes a recipe of this kind in its household cleaning recommendations, with a resting time of one week before using it.

Although it is easy to prepare, there are some precautions worth keeping in mind to avoid damage. For that reason, it is important to know what mixing orange peel with white vinegar is used for, how to prepare the cleaner at home, and what care to take when applying it.

What is mixing orange peels with white vinegar used for and why is it recommended?

Mixing orange peels with white vinegar makes it possible to prepare a homemade cleaner for certain household tasks. UF/IFAS recommends this mixture to make use of a kitchen waste product and an inexpensive household ingredient such as vinegar, which helps remove certain mineral deposits.

However, this preparation should never be mixed with bleach, since the combination can release toxic gases, according to UF/IFAS.

How do you prepare the homemade cleaner with orange peels and white vinegar?

According to the recipe published by UF/IFAS, the ingredients are:

• Peels from four oranges.
• Enough white vinegar to fill a jar of about one liter.
• A clean jar with a lid.
• A strainer and a spray bottle for later application.

The step-by-step instructions to prepare the mixture according to UF/IFAS are:

• Place the peels in the jar: remove any remaining pulp and place the peels from four oranges inside the container.
• Add the white vinegar: fill the jar until the peels are covered and close it.
• Let the preparation rest for a week: the UF/IFAS recipe sets that time before using the product.
• Strain the liquid: once the week has passed, remove the peels with a strainer and transfer the liquid to a spray bottle.
• Test the mixture before cleaning: apply a small amount of the mixture to a discreet area of a surface to make sure it does not cause damage, and then use a cloth to clean.

The University of Florida guide recommends labeling homemade preparations, keeping them out of the reach of children, and not storing them in containers that could be mistaken for food or drink containers.

What is spraying vinegar on the car windshield for

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

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

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

Step by step: how to apply it correctly

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

To clean:

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

To prevent frost:

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

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

Why is it worth doing

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

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

In the bathroom, it can become a resource for cleaning the toilet, removing surface residue, and helping reduce bad odors without necessarily resorting to harsher cleaning products if it is combined with detergent.

The recommendation is part of a guide to safer cleaning products published by the U.S. King County administration.

What is the purpose of pouring baking soda and detergent into the toilet?

From a chemical standpoint, baking soda acts as a mild abrasive that helps loosen dirt without easily scratching the surface. When combined with detergent, it helps remove residue, while the surfactants in the detergent help lift grease and other adhered particles.

How to use baking soda and detergent to clean the toilet

The procedure recommended by the U.S. agency is simple and does not require preparing a complex mixture. The important point is to distribute the product, scrub the surfaces, and remove the residue when finished.

To do this, follow these steps:

• Sprinkle baking soda inside the toilet bowl, over the surfaces you want to clean.
• Add two or three drops of liquid dish detergent.
• Scrub with a toilet brush, paying attention to the areas where dirt accumulates.
• Flush to rinse and remove the cleaning residue.

However, if there is persistent dirt and buildup, tough stains, or significant limescale deposits, it may be necessary to use a product specifically formulated for that problem and follow its instructions for use.

Does baking soda eliminate bad toilet odors?

Baking soda can help control some odors associated with residue and dirt. If the odor persists after cleaning, it is advisable to check whether there is a buildup of residue, drain problems, or issues with the plumbing.

It is also important to distinguish between cleaning and disinfecting. A bowl that looks clean or smells better does not mean that all microorganisms that can pose a health risk have been eliminated.

That is why, to keep the bathroom in good condition, the best approach is to combine regular cleaning with proper ventilation.

What precautions should be taken when cleaning the toilet with baking soda and detergent

Although baking soda and detergent are used in various household tasks, that does not mean that any combination of ingredients is safe or effective.

Before mixing products, it is important to check their labels and avoid combining cleaners of unknown composition.

In particular, bleach should never be mixed with products that contain acids or ammonia, as dangerous gases can be released.

A simple household method combines aluminum foil, salt, baking soda and hot water to help restore the appearance of tarnished silver. The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture Cooperative Extension includes this technique in its guide to homemade cleaning products.

Unlike ordinary scrubbing, the method relies on an electrochemical reaction to help remove the dark discoloration from the silver’s surface.

Why aluminum foil, salt and baking soda can clean silver

The dark coating that develops on silver is often silver sulfide, which forms when silver reacts with sulfur-containing substances. Removing it can be difficult with water alone.

When silver comes into contact with aluminum in hot water containing salt and baking soda, an electrochemical reaction can take place. Aluminum acts as the material that gives up electrons, helping convert the tarnish back into metallic silver. The process can transfer sulfur from the silver to the aluminum rather than simply scraping away the surface layer.

The salt and baking soda help the water conduct electricity, allowing the reaction to occur more effectively. Heat also helps the process move along.

This is why the technique differs from using baking soda as an abrasive. Instead of relying mainly on friction, it uses a chemical reaction to reduce the tarnish.

How to use aluminum foil and baking soda to clean silverware

The University of Arkansas Extension guide provides a simple recipe for treating tarnished silver with common household ingredients.

You will need:

• 1 quart of water (about 950 milliliters)
• 1 teaspoon of baking soda
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• A piece of aluminum foil
• A heat-resistant bowl or container

Follow these steps:

1. Line the bowl with aluminum foil. Make sure the foil covers the inside of the container.
2. Place the silver cutlery in the bowl. Arrange the pieces so they can make contact with the aluminum foil.
3. Add the salt and baking soda. Sprinkle both ingredients into the container.
4. Pour in boiling water. Use enough to cover the silverware, taking care to avoid splashes and burns.
5. Let the silver soak. Leave it in the solution until the tarnish begins to disappear. The time required depends on how heavily the silver is tarnished.
6. Remove, rinse and dry. Carefully take out the cutlery, rinse it thoroughly with clean water and dry it with a soft cloth.

The Extension recipe does not specify an exact soaking time. Check the silver periodically instead of assuming that every piece will need the same amount of time.

Which silver items can benefit from this method?

The technique is intended for tarnished silver items, including suitable silver spoons, forks and knives. It may also be useful for other solid-silver household pieces that have developed a dark coating.

However, not every item that looks silver is made entirely of silver. Silver-plated cutlery has a thin layer of silver over another metal, and repeated or unsuitable cleaning can damage its finish.

Avoid this method on pieces with glued components, delicate decorative details, gemstones or an intentionally darkened finish. Antique silver and valuable collectibles may require specialized care because removing tarnish can also remove a desirable patina.

What to keep in mind before cleaning silver

Although this method uses everyday ingredients, hot water can cause burns, so handle the container and cutlery carefully. Do not use the technique on items unless you know their material and finish are suitable.

The process also does not replace washing. Once the tarnish has been treated, rinse the silver thoroughly and wash it as appropriate before using it for food.

That is why a homemade mixture that combines two things that are usually found at home became popular: baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Unlike many home tricks, this one has a clear chemical explanation.

What mixing baking soda with hydrogen peroxide is for

The combination forms a whitening, all-purpose stain-removing paste. It is used mainly for household cleaning, where it helps lighten tile grout and remove stains and yellowish residue from plastic containers, baking trays, and even fabrics.

Baking soda is a very fine abrasive and, in addition, slightly alkaline. Its function is mechanical: it acts as a gentle polish that removes the stain from the surface without scratching. At the same time, because it is alkaline, it helps neutralize odors.

Hydrogen peroxide (hydrogen peroxide, H₂O₂) is the other engine of the trick, and it works chemically: it is an oxidizing agent. Stains have color because they contain molecules called chromophores, and oxidation breaks the bonds in those molecules, so that the stain loses color: it is not “covered up,” it is decolorized.

In that process, the peroxide breaks down, releasing oxygen, and that is why it works in a similar way to the oxygen bleaches sold commercially.

Together, the baking soda provides the polishing that lifts dirt from the surface and the peroxide chemically attacks the color of the stain, even the one that is a little more stuck on.

Step by step: how to make the mixture at home

The preparation is simple and it is best to make it when needed, not store it. Below is the step by step:

• Put half a cup of baking soda in a container and gradually add household hydrogen peroxide (the common one, 3%) until you form a thick paste.
• Apply the paste to the stain or the already cleaned grout
• Let it sit for a few minutes and scrub with a brush or sponge.
• Rinse well with water.

The ideal is to prepare only the amount that will be used, because the mixture loses effectiveness as it reacts.

Why it is recommended

Beyond the result, the appeal is that it is a natural, inexpensive, and readily available alternative to specialized products.

It uses two low-cost ingredients that are usually found at home, avoids the harshest commercial bleaches, and serves several purposes at once: the same paste that lightens bathroom grout works for a stained container or a white garment.

Which surfaces can you clean with baking soda and hydrogen peroxide?

A paste made with baking soda and 3% hydrogen peroxide can help remove certain stains and brighten some light-colored surfaces. However, the results depend on the material, the type of stain and how long the mixture remains in contact with the surface.

Here are some of the areas where the combination may be useful:

• White tile grout: The paste can help loosen embedded dirt while the hydrogen peroxide helps lighten discoloration. Scrub gently with a soft brush and rinse thoroughly.
• Ceramic cookware and baking trays: Baking soda provides mild abrasion to help lift stuck-on residue, while hydrogen peroxide can help reduce the appearance of certain stains. Check the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions first.
• White fabrics: Hydrogen peroxide may help lighten organic stains, including some food and beverage marks. Test an inconspicuous area first, as it can also remove fabric dyes.
• Plastic food containers: The mixture may help reduce visible discoloration, but check the manufacturer’s instructions and rinse the container thoroughly before using it again.

Avoid using the mixture indiscriminately on every surface. Colored fabrics, dark grout, delicate finishes and natural stone such as marble may be vulnerable to discoloration or damage. Test a small, hidden area before applying it more broadly.

While white vinegar is a commonly recommended option for removing these deposits, citric acid is an ideal ingredient for treating mineral deposits. Understanding how it works, and which precautions to take, can help you choose the right cleaning method for your showerhead.

Why citric acid can help remove limescale from showerheads

When water evaporates, it can leave behind minerals that gradually accumulate around showerhead nozzles. This chalky residue, commonly associated with hard water, can partially block the openings and cause water to spray unevenly or reduce the perceived pressure.

Citric acid is an acidic compound found naturally in citrus fruits and used in some household cleaning products. According to the University of Missouri’s explanation of acids and bases in cleaning products, acidic cleaners can dissolve mineral deposits that ordinary scrubbing may not remove easily.

The chemistry explains why. Limescale often contains calcium carbonate, a mineral that reacts with acids. The acid helps break down the deposit, allowing loosened material to be rinsed away with water.

Baking soda, by contrast, is mildly alkaline and is commonly used for gentle scrubbing and removing certain types of residue. It is not the same kind of targeted treatment for mineral buildup as an acidic descaler.

Citric acid can therefore be an alternative to consider when dealing with limescale. However, the best choice depends on the showerhead’s material, finish and manufacturer’s cleaning instructions.

How to clean showerhead nozzles with citric acid

Citric acid can help dissolve mineral deposits, but the cleaning method should be compatible with the showerhead’s material and finish. Before starting, check the manufacturer’s instructions to make sure an acidic cleaner is safe to use.

1. Prepare the cleaning solution: Follow the dilution instructions on the label of a citric-acid descaler suitable for showerheads. Avoid guessing the concentration or combining the product with other cleaners.
2. Apply the solution: If the manufacturer permits soaking, remove the showerhead and place it in a container with the prepared solution, ensuring that the affected nozzles are covered. If the fixture cannot be removed, follow the product manufacturer’s instructions for applying the cleaner in place.
3. Follow the recommended contact time: Leave the solution on the deposits only for the period specified on the product label. Do not assume that a longer soak will improve the results, since prolonged exposure may damage certain finishes or materials.
4. Clean the nozzles gently: After treatment, use a soft toothbrush or cloth to remove any loosened residue. Avoid needles, metal tools or abrasive pads that could damage the openings.
5. Rinse and test the flow: Rinse the showerhead thoroughly with clean water, reinstall it if necessary and run the shower to check whether the spray pattern has improved.

Important: Do not use citric acid on a showerhead unless the manufacturer confirms that it is compatible with the fixture. If the finish changes, the surface becomes dull or other damage appears, stop the cleaning process. Never mix citric acid with bleach or other cleaning products.

The change allows eligible families to use unused adoption tax credits from prior years to increase the refundable portion of the credit on their 2025 tax return. It applies to tax year 2025 only, and it does not make older carryforwards refundable in later years. The IRS expects to complete the refund process for most eligible taxpayers by the end of 2026.

Who qualifies for the adoption tax credit refunds?

The refunds apply to taxpayers who meet the conditions established under the revised interpretation of the adoption tax credit rules. The key requirement is having an eligible adoption tax credit carryforward from 2020 through 2024 that can increase the refundable amount for the 2025 tax year.

Under the Treasury Department’s interpretation, prior-year carryforwards can increase the refundable portion of the credit claimed for 2025, subject to a $5,000 limit per qualifying child.

This limit does not mean that every family will receive $5,000. The amount, if any, depends on the taxpayer’s circumstances and the credit available under the applicable rules.

How will the IRS issue the refunds?

The IRS is adjusting the accounts of affected taxpayers and issuing any resulting refunds automatically. Most eligible taxpayers do not need to file an amended tax return to receive the additional credit.

Taxpayers who filed their 2025 returns before April 15, 2026, will generally receive any applicable adjustment automatically. Those who filed under an extension, or whose accounts have identity theft indicators, freezes, dependency conflicts or other unresolved issues, may be reviewed later in 2026 after their returns are processed or the account problems are resolved.

The agency began making these adjustments in late September and will continue until the process is complete.

What if my return did not include the carryforward?

There is one important exception. If a taxpayer’s 2025 return did not include the prior-year adoption credit carryforward, the IRS may not have enough information to make the adjustment on its own. In that case, the taxpayer may need to file an amended return to correct the carryforward information.

How will families know if they are receiving a refund?

The IRS generally sends a notice within 30 days of adjusting an account. The notice explains the changes made and indicates whether the adjustment resulted in a refund or whether the amount was applied to another tax or non-tax debt.

Recipients should review the notice carefully, compare it with their 2025 tax return and keep the document with their tax records.

Taxpayers can also use their IRS Individual Online Account to review tax records, check refund information and access official notices securely.

Families seeking additional details about eligibility and the adoption tax credit can consult the IRS’s official adoption credit information page.

However, this requirement does not apply in the same way to every nationality. The United States has agreements with certain countries that allow their citizens to enter with passports valid for their intended period of stay, without requiring an additional six months of validity.

Travelers should therefore check the requirements that apply to their nationality and immigration status before heading to the airport.

How the 6-month passport validity rule works in the US

The rule is based on the date a visitor plans to leave the United States. For travelers subject to the general requirement, their passports must remain valid for six months beyond that date.

For example, if a traveler plans to leave the United States on December 15, their passport would generally need to remain valid until at least June 15 of the following year if the full six-month requirement applies.

However, the passport holder’s nationality can change this requirement. CBP explains that citizens of countries covered by exemption agreements only need passports that remain valid for their intended stay.

Which countries are exempt from the additional 6-month requirement?

CBP maintains exceptions for passports issued by a number of countries and territories. Among the countries listed in its reference materials are several important destinations for travelers from Latin America, Europe and other regions.

These include Argentina, Mexico, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Panama, Peru, Uruguay and Canada, as well as countries such as the United Kingdom, Spain, France, Germany, Italy, Australia, Japan and South Korea.

The exception means that eligible travelers do not need the additional six months of passport validity beyond their planned stay. Their passports must nevertheless remain valid throughout the intended visit, and they must meet any other applicable entry requirements.

Travelers should confirm the current status of their country on the U.S. Department of State’s official guidance before departing, because passport rules and other entry conditions can differ according to nationality and travel circumstances.

What travelers should check before flying

Before traveling, visitors should verify three key details:

• Passport expiration date: make sure the passport remains valid for the required period of stay.
• Nationality-based exemptions: check whether the passport-issuing country has an agreement waiving the additional six-month requirement.
• Immigration documents: confirm that the applicable visa or travel authorization is valid and that all other entry requirements are met.

The main reference for this rule is the official CBP guidance on passport technical requirements. Travelers can also review the requirements for the Visa Waiver Program through the U.S. Department of State.

The explanation lies in its chemical composition. White vinegar contains acetic acid, a chemical compound that can have antimicrobial activity at certain concentrations.

In addition, its acidity promotes the dissolution of some mineral deposits, such as the calcium and magnesium residues left by hard water as it evaporates, which makes it easier to remove stains stuck to the glass and window frames.

Spraying vinegar on window frames: what it is for

Spraying white vinegar on window frames can help remove hard water stains and mineral deposits, as well as act against certain microorganisms.

This is because it contains acetic acid, which promotes the dissolution of residues such as calcium carbonate. New Mexico State University explains that vinegar is used to remove hard water deposits and stains on glass surfaces. Its effectiveness depends on the type of dirt and the material being cleaned.

In addition, a 2020 study published in BMC Microbiology, conducted by researchers from the Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences, evaluated the antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral activity of acetic acid and found effects under certain concentrations and laboratory conditions.

In particular, the researchers found that a solution with 10% acetic acid and 1.5% citric acid significantly reduced various bacteria and fungi.

For this reason, spraying a vinegar solution can help remove some hard water marks and mineral residues stuck to the glass and window frame, as well as reduce bacteria and fungi.

What science says about acetic acid for fungi and bacteria

The study, titled Did granny know best? Evaluating the antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral efficacy of acetic acid for home care procedures, was carried out by Marc-Kevin Zinn and Dirk Bockmühl and published in BMC Microbiology.

In laboratory tests, the researchers observed that a solution with 10% acetic acid and 1.5% citric acid significantly reduced the presence of different bacteria and fungi. In addition, they detected antiviral activity with acetic acid concentrations of 5%, 7.5% and 10%.

The microorganisms analyzed included the bacteria Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Enterococcus hirae, as well as the fungus Aspergillus brasiliensis and the yeast Candida albicans.

Why the concentration of vinegar matters

Acetic acid is responsible for vinegar’s characteristic acidity. However, its presence does not mean that any product containing it will have the same antimicrobial effect. In the study, the results varied depending on the concentration, the microorganism and the procedure used.

Located in Jackson Hole, near the Snake River and the Teton Range, the property offered something Ford had been looking for: a place where he could escape the demands of his acting career and spend time surrounded by nature.

His decision to purchase the entire property in the 1980s went beyond acquiring a secluded home. Beginning in 1985, Ford established conservation easements on parts of the ranch, restricting development that could damage wildlife habitats and natural resources.

By 1994, approximately 389 acres—nearly half of the property—were documented as being under conservation protection, according to a historical report by The Land Report.

Why Harrison Ford chose an 800-acre property in Wyoming

Following the success of Return of the Jedi in 1983, Ford began looking for a place outside Southern California where he could enjoy a quieter life. He and his then-wife, screenwriter Melissa Mathison, initially considered properties around Sun Valley, Idaho, before turning their attention to Jackson Hole.

The region’s combination of mountain scenery, open land and abundant wildlife made a lasting impression on the actor.

In an interview recounted by The Land Report, Ford described the appeal of the landscape as a combination of water, streams, trees and animals, with the Tetons rising above the surrounding valley.

The property they found stretched along the Snake River and included land used by migrating elk and mule deer. Bald eagles and blue herons were also among the wildlife associated with the area, while native cutthroat trout inhabited its waterways.

Rather than purchase only a small section of the land around the existing home, Ford and Mathison chose to acquire the entire 800-acre property.

The actor helped design and build his Wyoming home

Ford’s connection to the ranch was not limited to choosing its location. His background as a carpenter also influenced the way he developed the property.

While filming Frantic in Paris in the late 1980s, he sketched plans for his Wyoming home and sent detailed instructions to the workers building it. According to The Land Report, the actor continued communicating with the construction crew from France.

After the main house was completed, Ford also helped build a guesthouse and a large barn that would serve as his workshop.

The result was a private retreat designed around the surrounding landscape rather than a conventional Hollywood mansion. Its setting gave Ford room to work on practical projects, spend time outdoors and maintain a more hands-on lifestyle.

How Harrison Ford protected 389 acres from development

Ford’s commitment to the ranch eventually extended beyond building a home. In 1985, he began donating conservation easements on portions of his property.

These agreements restrict certain uses of private land to preserve its environmental value. Depending on their terms, they can prohibit subdivision, extensive construction or other activities that could harm wildlife habitats and natural resources.

The key distinction is that a conservation easement does not necessarily mean the landowner gives away the property itself. Instead, the owner retains the land while agreeing to permanent restrictions on specified development rights.

The Jackson Hole Land Trust, a local organization dedicated to protecting open spaces and natural resources, has used this type of agreement with private landowners throughout the region.

By 1994, reports documented 389 acres of Ford’s 800-acre ranch under conservation easements. That amounted to almost half of the property, limiting the extent to which the protected land could be developed.

The restrictions were significant because they were intended to endure beyond the owner’s lifetime or a future sale of the property, subject to the terms of the agreements.

The wildlife and landscape Ford wanted to preserve

The ranch sits in a region where private land can play an important role in maintaining open space and wildlife habitat. Its meadows, waterways and wooded areas form part of a landscape used by a variety of native species.

Historical descriptions of Ford’s property mention elk, mule deer, bald eagles, blue herons and native cutthroat trout. Protecting land from extensive development can help maintain the natural areas these animals depend on.

The benefits of conservation easements can also extend beyond wildlife. Keeping land from being subdivided or heavily built upon can help preserve open views, protect water resources and maintain connections between natural habitats.

That does not mean every acre of the ranch became a public nature reserve. Conservation easements generally allow land to remain privately owned, and public access is not automatically included. The restrictions instead focus on protecting agreed-upon conservation values.

Ford’s decision was also notable at a time when conservation easements were less widely known among private landowners. Stephen Small, who helped write tax provisions related to these agreements, told that Ford was among the early high-profile figures to embrace the approach.

Harrison Ford’s environmental commitment extends beyond his ranch

Ford’s interest in protecting nature also became part of his work outside Wyoming. He has served as an active board member of Conservation International, an organization focused on protecting biodiversity and supporting environmental conservation around the world.

His ranch reflects a more personal dimension of that commitment. Instead of treating the property solely as a private getaway, Ford used conservation agreements to limit how much of the land could be altered by future development.

The decision offered a way to balance private ownership with long-term environmental protection. Ford could retain his home and the land while placing lasting restrictions on certain activities that might otherwise transform the property.

According to the U.S. Department of the Treasury, eligible children began receiving the contribution on July 4, 2026. However, the money is not automatically deposited into every child’s account simply because the child qualifies for the program.

Who qualifies for the $1,000 Trump Account contribution?

To receive the federal contribution, a child must meet the following requirements established by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS):

• Birth date: The child must have been born between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2028.
• U.S. citizenship: The child must be a U.S. citizen.
• Social Security number: The child must have a valid Social Security number (SSN).
• Qualifying child: The child must be expected to qualify as the authorized individual’s child for the relevant tax year.
• No previous election: A request for the $1,000 pilot contribution must not already have been processed for that child.

The contribution is part of the federal government’s Trump Accounts pilot program. Meeting the requirements makes a child eligible, but an authorized adult must also complete the necessary steps to request the contribution.

How can parents claim the $1,000 contribution?

Parents, guardians and other authorized individuals can establish an account and request the federal contribution through the official process.

The IRS provides Form 4547, Trump Account Election(s), which allows an authorized individual to elect to establish an account for an eligible child and request the $1,000 contribution when the child qualifies.

The process involves these steps:

1. Establish the account: Complete the required election through Form 4547 or the official online process.
2. Request the contribution: Make the separate election for the $1,000 pilot program contribution, if the child meets the additional eligibility requirements.
3. Claim the account: If the child already has an automatically enrolled account, a parent or guardian must claim it to manage the account and enable the federal contribution.

The Treasury Department says parents and guardians can use the official Trump Accounts app to claim automatically enrolled accounts. They must verify their identity and their relationship to the child, review the child’s information and accept the account terms.

Families can find the official program information at TrumpAccounts.gov and review the IRS instructions for Form 4547.

What happens to the money in a Trump Account?

Trump Accounts are tax-advantaged investment accounts established for children. The federal government’s initial $1,000 contribution is invested in the account rather than paid directly to parents as cash.

The accounts are intended to build long-term savings through investments. Families may also be able to contribute additional money, subject to the program’s rules and annual contribution limits.

The Treasury Department announced on October 1, 2026, that automatic enrollment had been completed for more than 60 million additional eligible children. However, having an account does not mean the $1,000 contribution has already been deposited. A parent or guardian must claim the account and complete the required election for the child to receive the federal contribution.

Under proposed regulations issued by the U.S. Department of the Treasury and the IRS, the credit will be capped at $1,700 per individual taxpayer annually. For purposes of this limit, spouses who file a joint return are treated as separate taxpayers, so a married couple can claim a combined credit of up to $3,400 only if each spouse makes a qualifying contribution of at least $1,700. A couple that contributes $1,700 in total would be eligible for a maximum credit of $1,700.

Unlike some other education-related tax benefits, this program does not provide a direct government payment to parents or an automatic tax refund. To qualify, taxpayers must make qualifying cash contributions to approved organizations that provide scholarships for elementary and secondary school students.

Who qualifies for the new IRS tax credit in 2027?

The credit is intended for individual taxpayers who meet the federal requirements and make qualified contributions to scholarship-granting organizations, known as SGOs.

In general, taxpayers will need to:

• Be a U.S. citizen or resident for tax purposes, as required under the program’s rules.
• Make a cash contribution to an organization eligible to receive qualifying donations.
• Verify that the organization appears on the applicable list of approved organizations.
• Confirm that the state where the organization is located has elected to participate in the federal program and submitted the required list to the IRS.

Eligibility does not depend solely on the taxpayer’s state of residence. The rules allow taxpayers to support an approved organization located in another participating state, provided all applicable requirements are met.

The credit cannot exceed the amount of qualifying contributions and is capped at $1,700 per individual taxpayer. For married couples filing jointly, each spouse is treated as a separate taxpayer, so reaching the combined maximum of $3,400 requires a qualifying contribution of at least $1,700 from each spouse.

How the tax credit works and what the scholarships can cover

The program is designed to direct private contributions toward organizations that award scholarships for kindergarten through 12th-grade education (K-12). Families receiving these scholarships may use the funds for certain educational expenses related to their children’s schooling.

Qualified expenses may include:

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

The tax credit reduces federal income tax liability. This distinction matters because the credit is nonrefundable, meaning it does not automatically generate an IRS payment when the credit exceeds the taxpayer’s tax liability.

The proposed regulations also provide for eligible unused credit amounts to be carried forward for up to five years, subject to the applicable rules.

Taxpayers who also qualify for a state tax credit for the same donation should note that the proposed regulations reduce the qualified contribution by the state credit before applying the $1,700 limit. In practice, a state credit can lower the amount of the federal credit a donor is able to claim.

What taxpayers should know before claiming the credit

The program was established under federal legislation enacted in 2025 and applies to tax years ending after December 31, 2026. The Treasury Department and the IRS released proposed regulations on October 1, 2026, outlining procedures for states and participating organizations to prepare for the program’s launch.

State participation is voluntary. Before making a contribution, taxpayers should check whether the relevant state is participating and whether the recipient organization meets the official requirements.

Eligible organizations must also satisfy legal and operational standards. These generally include qualifying as a public charity under Section 501(c)(3), maintaining separate records for qualified contributions, and meeting the program’s reporting and oversight requirements.

Which states will participate in the $3,400 tax credit in 2027?

The Education Freedom Tax Credit will depend on state participation. On October 1, 2026, the U.S. Department of the Treasury announced that 30 states had opted into the program, ahead of its scheduled launch on January 1, 2027.

Under the program’s rules, each participating state must submit a list of eligible Scholarship Granting Organizations (SGOs) to the IRS. Taxpayers will only be able to claim the federal credit for qualifying cash contributions to organizations that meet the program’s requirements.

The IRS said states can still elect to participate by submitting Form 15714, and it is preparing an online portal for states to provide their lists of eligible organizations.

Among the offerings there are options with free entry under certain conditions, as well as parties organized in bars and other nightlife venues that offer different types of passes, with prices varying by event.

What Halloween-themed reggaeton parties are there for Friday, October 30?

For Friday, October 30, New York will feature different reggaeton parties for Halloween, some with free admission by prior reservation and others with prices starting at $10.

These are some of the available options:

• PERREO HALLOWEEN: will take place at Bar 13, located at 121 University Place, New York. Tickets are available from $10.
• The Haunted Reggaeton Party at Skinos NYC: will take place at 123 Washington Street, New York. General admission starts at $25.
• REGGAETON WORLD takes over Queens - Halloween Edition: will be held at 99-10 Northern Boulevard, Queens. Admission will be free for those who enter before 10 p.m. with prior reservation. General admission starts at $23.18.

What are the Halloween-themed reggaeton parties for Saturday, October 31?

For Saturday, October 31, Halloween day, there will also be reggaeton parties in different parts of New York, with free options and paid tickets.

Among the announced events are:

• BASHMENT Halloween Party: will take place in Queens, although the exact location will be provided after purchase or reservation. Free tickets are still available and paid passes start at $23.18.
• Spooky Perreo: will take place at Lot 45, Brooklyn. General admission is available from $33.85.
• Saints or Sinners at Skinos NYC: will be held at 123 Washington Street, New York. Tickets start at $33.85.

To check ticket availability, find out the times, and make reservations, interested parties can go to Eventbrite.

According to the IRS on its official website, since July 2023 most unannounced visits by revenue officers have been eliminated, with the aim of reducing confusion and improving taxpayer security.

In what cases can an IRS agent show up at your home?

The agency identifies four types of officials authorized to make in-person visits, each with specific responsibilities:

• Audit agents: review financial records and tax returns. Generally, they notify the taxpayer by mail before making a visit.
• Revenue officers: intervene when there are unpaid taxes or unfiled returns. Usually, they send a letter or call to schedule a meeting.
• Criminal investigators: investigate possible tax and financial crimes. They may show up without prior notice, but they do not demand payments.
• Fuel inspectors: carry out inspections at facilities related to the production, storage or sale of taxable fuels. They may conduct inspections without notice.

In the case of revenue officers, the IRS usually uses Letter 725-B, an official notice to schedule a meeting with the taxpayer over tax returns that have not been filed or tax debts.

How do you know if an IRS agent is real?

The IRS states that its officials must have official identification that allows their identity to be verified.

Audit, revenue and fuel inspection agents carry two credentials: an IRS-issued identification, known as a pocket commission, and an HSPD-12 card. Both include a photograph and employee identification number.

Criminal investigators, for their part, present credentials from federal law enforcement.

To avoid scams, the agency recommends asking for identification and verifying the information before providing personal or financial data.

It also warns that scammers often demand immediate payment, threaten arrest or request confidential information.

If you are visited by someone suspicious, taxpayers can consult the official channels available at IRS.gov and verify the official’s identity before continuing with any process.

However, there are different types of coffee makers that adapt to each person’s taste, since some result in a milder, more liquid coffee, while in others it is more bitter and full-bodied.

What is the coffee made by an espresso machine like?

According to America’s Test Kitchen, espresso machines allow you to obtain a concentrated coffee, with an intense flavor and pronounced aroma.

Its operation consists of forcing hot water at high pressure through finely ground coffee. The texture of the coffee is dense, with a layer of foam known as crema.

It is the type of coffee maker used in coffee shops, since it is used to make cappuccinos, lattes and others.

What type of coffee do you get from an Italian coffee maker?

The Italian coffee maker, also known as a moka pot, produces a strong, intense, full-bodied coffee. It uses steam pressure to drive hot water through the ground coffee.

Although its operation is similar to that of an espresso machine, it does not reach the same pressure. That is why a concentrated coffee is produced that has texture characteristics different from those of traditional espresso.

What is the result of making coffee in a French press?

The French press allows you to obtain a strong coffee, full-bodied and with a thicker texture. Unlike other methods, the ground coffee remains in direct contact with the hot water for several minutes.

Then, the piston with a metal filter separates the ground coffee from the beverage. This system allows a greater amount of natural coffee oils to be retained, which contributes to its flavor and texture.

What about filtered coffee?

Filtered coffee makers allow you to obtain a coffee with a lighter body, smooth texture and more defined flavors. The hot water passes through the ground coffee and a filter that retains much of the sediment.

When a paper filter is used, many of the coffee’s natural oils are also retained. That is why the result is usually a cleaner and lighter drink than the one prepared in a French press.

The manual filtering method, known as pour-over, allows you to control the water temperature, the grind and the brewing speed to modify the final flavor.

Unlike some homemade ingredients that can be abrasive or affect certain finishes, mild detergent allows lifting the grease from the surface without the need to scrub hard.

What it is for to clean oven knobs with detergent and warm water

The combination of dish detergent and warm water helps remove grease, food splashes, and dirt that accumulates around the oven controls, according to GE Appliances.

This is because detergents contain surfactants that reduce the interfacial tension between the grease and the surface, which makes it easier to emulsify or disperse in water and allows residues to be removed by the mechanical wiping action of a cloth.

How to clean knobs with dish detergent and warm water

To clean the oven knobs and remove grease residue without damaging their surface, GE Appliances recommends using a solution of water and mild detergent.

The manufacturer details a simple procedure that allows these parts to be cleaned and put back in place correctly.

The step-by-step process for cleaning oven knobs:

1. Remove the knobs: take them carefully off the oven.
2. Wash them with detergent: use a solution of water and mild detergent, along with a soft cloth, to remove dirt.
3. Avoid soaking them: the manufacturer indicates that the knobs should not remain submerged in water.
4. Dry them well: remove all moisture before putting them back.
5. Put them back correctly: match the flat part on the back of each knob with the control shaft.
6. Respect the original position: in dual-oven models, make sure the knobs correspond to each oven and do not swap them.

Although mild detergent is a common alternative for removing grease, cleaning should be done carefully to avoid damaging the parts. The use of metal sponges, abrasive scouring pads, or hard brushes that could scratch the material or wear down the inscriptions and gradation marks is not recommended.

How often oven knobs should be cleaned

As a maintenance measure, it is advisable to clean the knobs when grease or dirt residue is noticed, rather than waiting for a layer difficult to remove to build up.

For regular cleaning, dish detergent diluted in warm water is usually enough. If stubborn stains remain, it is preferable to consult the manufacturer’s instructions before trying stronger products.

Section 21950 of the Vehicle Code also requires reducing speed and taking the necessary precautions to avoid putting people walking at risk, even when there is no traffic light regulating traffic.

What drivers must do when a pedestrian crosses the street

The regulations state that drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians crossing the roadway in a crosswalk, whether it is marked with lines on the pavement or is located at an intersection without visible signage.

Subsection (a) of Section 21950 of the California Vehicle Code states it explicitly: “The driver of a vehicle shall yield the right-of-way to a pedestrian crossing the roadway within any marked crosswalk or within any unmarked crosswalk at an intersection”.

Likewise, the text indicates that the driver must “exercise due care and shall reduce the speed of the vehicle or take any other action related to the operation of the vehicle as necessary to safeguard the safety of the pedestrian”.

It is important to know that the absence of a traffic light with painted lines does not eliminate drivers’ obligations. The obligation is not limited to stopping when the pedestrian is already in front of the vehicle, but also requires anticipating possible risks and adjusting driving when approaching these crossings.

Do pedestrians also have to follow the rules?

Yes. Although the law grants protection to those crossing at the crosswalks covered by the rule, it also requires them to act with caution and avoid situations that could cause a collision.

Subsection (b) of Section 21950 establishes that no pedestrian may suddenly leave the curb or another safe place and run into the path of a vehicle that is so close as to pose an immediate hazard. They must also not stop or unnecessarily delay traffic in a crosswalk (marked or unmarked).

Finally, subsection (d) clarifies that the pedestrian’s obligations do not exempt the driver from protecting the safety of people crossing.

Although the IRS has not yet published its specific guidance for the 2027 filing season, taxpayers can start preparing for the 2027 tax season by organizing their financial records, checking their IRS accounts, and gathering the documents they will need to file their federal income tax returns.

Gather and organize tax documents

One of the first steps is to collect the documents needed to complete a federal income tax return. These may include Form W-2, which reports wages, and Form 1099, which reports certain other types of income.

Taxpayers should also keep records of other income, payments, and expenses that may affect their tax returns. Depending on their situation, they may need documents related to tax credits, deductions, or other tax benefits.

It is important to wait until all required income documents are available before filing. Missing information could lead to errors or delays in processing a return.

How to check your IRS online account

Taxpayers can also review their information through an online account with the IRS. The account allows users to access certain tax records and review information related to their federal tax obligations.

Checking these records before filing can help taxpayers organize the information they need for their returns. They should also make sure they have access to the account and can sign in when the filing season begins.

Review tax rules before filing in 2027

Taxpayers should review the rules that apply to the 2026 tax year before completing their returns. Their filing requirements and eligibility for certain credits or deductions may depend on their income, filing status, and personal circumstances.

The IRS is expected to provide updated guidance as the 2027 filing season approaches. Taxpayers should check the agency’s official website for the latest instructions, deadlines and available filing options before submitting their returns.

What spraying vinegar on pillows is for

The main use is to neutralize bad odors and freshen textiles. White vinegar helps cut the smell of sweat, dampness, or stuffiness that the pillow picks up with use, and leaves the area fresher without resorting to strong perfumes.

White vinegar is a solution of acetic acid (around 5%), and that acidic character is the key. Much of the unpleasant odor in a pillow comes from compounds with an alkaline character, such as volatile amines and ammoniacal substances generated by sweat and bacteria as they break it down. These are molecules that evaporate easily and therefore reach the nose.

When acetic acid comes into contact with them, an acid-base reaction occurs: the acid neutralizes them and turns them into salts that are not volatile, that is, they stop evaporating and, therefore, stop smelling. That is why vinegar is said to neutralize the odor instead of covering it up with fragrance, as scented sprays do.

That same acidity also helps dissolve the salts from dried sweat and loosen part of the oils stuck to the fabric, so they come out better in the wash afterward.

That is why a light application is enough to freshen the pillow. And although the typical vinegar smell is noticeable when spraying, it is the acetic acid itself evaporating: it dissipates as the fabric dries, leaving no aroma.

Step by step: how to apply it correctly

The procedure for everyday freshening is simple:

• Mix one part white vinegar with three parts water in a spray bottle.
• If desired, a few drops of essential oil, such as lavender, can be added.
• Spray the pillow with a light mist, until it is just barely damp, never soaked.
• Let it dry completely in a well-ventilated place and, if possible, in the sun, turning it over so both sides dry.
• Repeat once a week or when needed.

Why it is important to do it

Beyond the result, the appeal is that it is a natural, inexpensive, and handy alternative to commercial sprays. It makes it possible to keep the pillow hygienic and fresh between washes, something key in an item that is in direct contact with the face for hours, uses a product that almost everyone has in the kitchen, and avoids loading such a sensitive area with chemicals and perfumes. It is also a quick gesture that extends the life of textiles and delays the moment of replacing them.

According to AccuWeather, the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) confirmed that approximately 244 meters of pavement were damaged near the Pea Island Visitor Center.

In addition, the strong waves caused the loss of about 549 meters of protective dunes, which worsened the road conditions and complicated efforts to restore traffic.

Which highway remains closed in North Carolina because of the storm?

NC-12 highway remains closed between the Marc Basnight Bridge and Rodanthe, a key stretch for connecting Hatteras Island with the northern Outer Banks.

The closure began on Monday, October 19, around 6 p.m., after the surf overtopped the protective dunes and flooded the road near Pea Island.

According to the latest AccuWeather update, damage to the pavement and the loss of natural barriers make reopening the affected stretch difficult. Authorities have not yet announced a date to restore traffic.

This is the second time in about a month that a storm has severely affected the same highway. In September, another storm damaged nearly 305 meters of the NC-12 and forced emergency repairs.

How long will flooding continue in North Carolina?

According to the Dare County, the National Weather Service (NWS) warned that high tides could cause coastal flooding through Thursday, October 22.

Although the sky may remain clear in some areas, the storm continues to generate dangerous conditions along the coast.

The main risks include strong waves, beach erosion, and water advancing over sections of the highway.

Forecasts indicate that winds and surf would begin to ease during Thursday, with a gradual improvement toward the end of the week. However, flooding could continue even after the winds lose intensity.

What restrictions apply to those traveling to Hatteras Island?

Authorities are keeping the state of emergency in Hatteras Island and entry restrictions for visitors in effect.

The mandatory evacuation order applies to visitors to the island, but not to residents or to areas located north of Oregon Inlet.

Dare County said tourist entry will be allowed again once the storm has passed and NC-12 highway is no longer threatened by the advance of the water.

Meanwhile, authorities recommended avoiding the closed stretch and checking the official updates before traveling.

The armored vehicle is designed to combine a 50-millimeter cannon, a remotely operated turret, missile launch systems, and electric-hydraulic propulsion. However, these features are part of the planned design and must be evaluated during military testing.

The development contract, valued at approximately $764 million, includes the construction of the prototypes and validation of the system. The initiative is part of a competition in which General Dynamics Land Systems is also participating, so the Army will still have to evaluate the proposals before deciding which model will move on to production.

What anti-tank weapons, hybrid technology and combat systems will the XM30 incorporate

Weaponry is one of the XM30’s central components, since American Rheinmetall’s proposal includes an unmanned turret with a 50-millimeter cannon and a multi-mission launcher designed to integrate different weapons systems.

Among the planned capabilities are Javelin and TOW anti-tank missiles, intended to attack armored vehicles, and compatibility with Coyote Block 3 unmanned systems. In this regard, another of its new features is electric-hydraulic propulsion, which combines a combustion engine with electrical components to improve power generation and mobility, in addition to allowing certain operations with less noise when the thermal engine remains off, according to the manufacturer.

The XM30 also incorporates a modular and open architecture, designed to facilitate future upgrades to its electronic and combat systems without having to redesign the entire platform.

The United States ordered 7 more prototypes: what tests the armored vehicle will have to pass

The U.S. Armed Forces received the first prototype delivered by American Rheinmetall on September 1, 2026, and also ordered 7 more vehicles, which will be delivered throughout this year. Likewise, the development contract is worth approximately US$764 million and includes the design and construction of the prototypes and system validation.

The XM30 armored vehicles will have to go through different evaluation stages:

• Technical tests: to examine the operation and performance of the armored vehicle.
• Safety checks: before moving on to field maneuvers.
• Military training: the additional prototypes will also serve to train soldiers.
• Combat simulations: they will allow the performance of the vehicles in larger-scale exercises to be evaluated.

The XM30 is not the only model competing to replace the Bradley, since the U.S. Army awarded a development contract to General Dynamics Land Systems, so the delivery of the first Lynx XM30 does not guarantee that American Rheinmetall will be chosen for final production.

The goal is to develop a vehicle capable of responding to modern threats, such as drones, precision weapons, and electronic warfare. Before incorporating it into its fleet, the Army will have to evaluate whether the XM30 meets the protection, mobility, and firepower requirements established for the program.

According to the schedule, the early payment will occur with two key payments corresponding to November because these payment dates coincide with days on which the federal agency does not make deposits.

SSA advances two key November payments: which ones, and what new dates were set

As explained, when a payment date coincides with a weekend or federal holiday, the money is advanced to the first available business day before it.

This will happen with the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payment, which is usually delivered on the first day of each month. Since November 1 falls on a Sunday, the deposit will be made on Friday, October 30.

The same will happen with the Social Security payment for those born between the 1st and 10th of their month -which is usually delivered on the second Wednesday- and it will be moved up from Wednesday the 11th to Tuesday the 10th because of the celebration of Veterans Day.

When all November payments are scheduled

The full official calendar establishes:

• October 30: Supplemental Security Income payments
• November 3: payments for those who received their Social Security benefits before May 1997 or Social Security payments for those who also receive SSI
• November 18: payments for those born between the 11th and 20th of their month
• November 25: payments for those born between the 21st and 31st of their month

COLA increase 2027: how much will it be

The official statement shared by the agency details that the cost-of-living increase for next year will be 3.6% and will affect 76 million Americans.

The first to receive this money will be those who receive SSI on December 31 of this year.

In this regard, it was announced that COLA notices will be available online at the end of November and can be accessed through the personal account my Social Security.

It also offers a paid identity verification service for those who do not have any of the accepted forms of identification.

According to the TSA official website, passengers over 18 must present valid identification at airport security in order to travel.

What other documents does the TSA accept to board domestic flights?

In addition to the U.S. passport, both in booklet and card format, the TSA accepts different forms of identification to verify passengers’ identities, including:

• Driver’s license or state ID card that meets REAL ID requirements.
• Enhanced driver’s license (EDL) or enhanced identification card (EID).
• Digital IDs and mobile driver’s licenses (mDL) accepted by the TSA at enabled airports.
• DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, and FAST).
• Department of Defense ID, including those issued to family members.
• Permanent Resident Card (Green Card).
• Border crossing card.
• Photo ID issued by a federally recognized nation or Native American tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETC).
• HSPD-12 PIV card.
• Foreign passport.
• Canadian provincial driver’s license or Canada Indian and Northern Affairs card.
• Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
• Employment Authorization Document (I-766) issued by USCIS.
• U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential.
• Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC).

In addition, the TSA accepts certain digital IDs through platforms such as Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, and CLEAR, only at compatible airports and devices.

What is the alternative when you do not have a valid ID?

When travelers do not have any of these IDs, the TSA offers the TSA ConfirmID service, which allows a request for identity verification by paying US$45.

To use it, passengers over 18 must go to the Pay.gov platform, enter their personal information, indicate the trip start date, and pay the corresponding fee.

Once the payment has been made, they will receive a receipt by email that must be presented, either in digital or printed form, during airport security screening.

The payment is valid for 10 days from the declared trip start date. However, the service does not guarantee that the TSA can verify the passenger’s identity or authorize access to security screening.

What happens with international travel?

For international travel, passengers generally must present a valid passport and comply with the documentation requirements established by the destination country.

In addition, depending on the traveler’s nationality and destination, visas, electronic authorizations, or other immigration documents may be required.

“Buckling up helps keep you safe and protected inside the vehicle, while not buckling up can result in being completely thrown out of the vehicle in a crash, which is almost always fatal,” the agency explains.

While buckling it up is essential, it is not the only factor that should be considered when using this item; the way it is used is also key.

The mistake children and adults should not make when fastening the seat belt

Experts indicate that children and adults should never place the shoulder belt behind the back or under the arm, since this directly interferes with the protective function for which it was designed.

How to use the seat belt correctly

• The lap belt and shoulder belt should be secured across the pelvis and rib cage, as they are more capable of withstanding the force of impact than other parts of the body
• The belt should be positioned in the center of the chest and away from the neck
• The lap belt should rest on the hips, not the stomach

“Always check the fit of your child’s belt in every vehicle. A booster seat may be necessary in some vehicles and not in others,” it is stated.

How to protect children in the vehicle

Authorities explain that all children under 13 years old must ride in the back seat because this is the best place to protect their safety.

In addition, to determine whether the child is ready to use a seat belt, they need to be tall enough to sit without slouching and be able to:

• Keep their back against the vehicle seat
• Keep their knees naturally bent over the edge of the seat
• Be able to rest their feet on the floor

Parents’ use of the seat belt is also essential so that children can imitate this behavior. “Research shows that children whose parents buckle up are much more likely to do so themselves,” it is stated.

In a TikTok video, St. Clair said Musk often claims that anything “on the second page of Google” might as well not exist. She argues he floods search results to push bad press out of sight.

Alex Gibney’s nearly four-hour film opened in theaters Oct. 9. Tesla showed off the Roadster Oct. 15 in Waco, Texas, and Musk announced the SpaceX giveaway Monday.

What did Elon Musk show off with the flying Tesla Roadster?

The long-delayed Roadster is a two-seat electric sports car. Tesla calls it a flying car, but the driverless demo showed jumps, not sustained flight.

The car climbed a steep ramp using suction, hung upside down, then flipped off and landed on air jets. It also leapt over a row of parked Teslas.

Musk said 10 nozzles fed by high-pressure air tanks power the car, which he claims can hit 60 mph in under a second. Production is set for 2028, so the Roadster can’t be bought yet, and Musk has missed many past deadlines.

@ashstc

anyways, see MUSK in theaters now.

♬ original sound - ashley st. clair

How would Elon Musk’s $11 billion SpaceX stock pledge work?

Musk wrote on social media that he plans to give one of his SpaceX shares to every child in the U.S., calling it “the first of many.” He didn’t say when or how.

The $11 billion is an estimate: the U.S. has about 73 million children, according to the Census Bureau, and SpaceX traded at $149.49 on Monday morning.

President Donald Trump said the shares would go into Trump Accounts. These tax-deferred savings accounts were created under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, and donors can add stock to them without paying capital gains taxes.

It’s unclear how many children would qualify. The Treasury Department is automatically enrolling up to 60 million, which would put the gift closer to $9 billion.

Musk is SpaceX’s largest shareholder, with a 10.5% stake, according to FactSet. His pledge came a day after AI company Anthropic said it would put 5% of its shares in a public benefit fund.

What does Ashley St. Clair say about Elon Musk in the documentary?

St. Clair, a former conservative influencer and children’s book author, dated Musk from 2023 to 2025. Their child was born in 2024; Musk has 14 known children.

In the film, she says she turned down $15 million up front plus $100,000 a month for 21 years to sign a nondisclosure agreement. Musk wrote on X that she “was never offered that and has a history of making false claims.”

She also says women told her Musk had offered to father children with them, and that he called X Æ A-Xii, his son with Grimes, his favorite.

Musk called the project a hit piece back in 2023. After its September premiere in Venice, he accused Gibney of having no integrity and of stacking the film with people who hold grudges against him.

According to the NHTSA, 28 people in the US have been killed by exploding Takata airbag inflators, while at least 400 others have allegedly been injured. The agency urges vehicle owners to check their vehicle identification number (VIN) for open recalls and arrange a free repair if their car is affected.

Why are Takata airbags dangerous?

The problem involves the airbag inflator, a component that generates gas to inflate the airbag during a crash. According to the NHTSA, prolonged exposure to high temperatures and humidity can cause the propellant inside the inflator to deteriorate.

When the airbag deploys, the deteriorated propellant can burn too quickly and create excessive pressure, causing the inflator to rupture. Metal fragments can then shoot into the vehicle’s cabin, potentially killing or seriously injuring occupants.

The NHTSA warns that even minor crashes can trigger an explosion. The agency says approximately 67 million Takata airbags are under recall in the United States, affecting tens of millions of vehicles.

How to check if your vehicle is affected

Drivers can check whether their vehicle has an open safety recall by entering its VIN into the NHTSA’s official recall lookup tool. The VIN is typically found on the driver’s side of the dashboard near the windshield or on the driver’s side door jamb. It also appears on vehicle registration and insurance documents.

If the search identifies an open Takata airbag recall, owners should contact an authorized dealership to arrange a repair. According to the NHTSA, recall repairs could be free of charge.

The agency recommends checking for recalls at least twice a year, even if the vehicle has not received a notification by mail. Owners can also sign up for recall alerts to receive notifications about future safety recalls affecting their vehicles.

What should drivers do if their vehicle has a Takata recall?

Some vehicles are subject to specific “Do Not Drive” warnings because their defective inflators pose a particularly high risk. The NHTSA advises owners of affected vehicles to follow the instructions issued for their specific recall and arrange repairs immediately.

For example, the agency specifically warns owners of certain 2001–2003 Honda and Acura vehicles to contact Honda or a dealership immediately and drive the vehicle only to the dealership for the repair. Other vehicles may have different instructions, so drivers should check the notice associated with their VIN.

The NHTSA emphasizes that Takata airbag recalls remain a serious safety issue and that all defective airbags must be replaced. Vehicle owners can consult the agency’s official recall resources to determine whether their vehicle is affected and what steps to take.

Among them are filing federal tax returns and reporting income both to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the state tax authorities.

However, USCIS also warns about an error that could affect status by being considered a renunciation of permanent residency.

What is the error that can be interpreted as a renunciation of status?

According to USCIS in its “maintaining permanent residence” section, there are two reasons why someone ceases to be a permanent resident:

1. Applying for and completing the naturalization process.
2. Losing or abandoning status.

In the second scenario, there are several ways to lose status that can be found on the official USCIS website. One of the items mentioned is “declaring oneself as a nonimmigrant on your tax return.”

How should the tax return be filed correctly?

To avoid making this mistake, it is important to keep several factors in mind. First, lawful permanent residents must use Form 1040, which corresponds to the individual federal income tax return used by U.S. citizens and aliens considered residents for tax purposes.

If a lawful permanent resident files Form 1040-NR, intended for nonresident aliens for tax purposes, it could create a contradiction regarding their immigration status. In certain circumstances, this could be interpreted as an intention to give up permanent residency.

In addition, this error can also occur by answering incorrectly the questions related to tax residency status or the days of physical presence in the United States.

What should be done if this error is made to prevent it from being considered a renunciation of status?

If a tax return error is made, it is possible to correct it by filing Form 1040-X, which allows an previously filed federal return to be amended.

It is important to make the correction as soon as possible, since tax inconsistencies could create complications when applying for U.S. citizenship or when trying to re-enter the country after a trip abroad.

This is because immigration authorities may assess compliance with tax obligations to determine whether a person maintains their permanent resident status.

The company was valued at about $900 million back in 2021 when Whiterspoon decided to sell a majority stake. Now she is getting it back for much less.

Reese Whiterspoon sold a part of her company for $900 million, and now she is getting it back

In August 2021, Witherspoon sold her stake in Hello Sunshine to a Blackstone-backed company led by former Disney executives Kevin Mayer and Tom Staggs. Nonetheless, she kept a significant share and a seat on the board.

But on October 13, 2026, she and the European studio Mediawan announced they are buying that majority back from Candle Media. Although the terms were not disclosed, Axios reported that the prices are in low-to-mid-eight figures.

Witherspoon called the deal “a homecoming” and added: “The best is still ahead.”

The problem Whiterspoon faced with Hollywood

In 2011, the scripts she received were, in her words, “abysmal [and] really demeaning.” She visited the heads of the seven major studios and asked how many movies with a female lead they were developing. The answer was almost always none, said on Harvard Business School’s Founder Mindset podcast.

At first she was frustrated, but then she realized that it was a huge white space to fill. That’s why in 2016 she co-founded Hello Sunshine, which produced hits like Big Little Lies, Little Fires Everywhere, and The Morning Show.

Her drive comes from her teenage years, when her family went through serious money problems. She left Stanford after about a year because she couldn’t afford the tuition. “If I didn’t succeed, there wasn’t anybody coming to save me,” she said in the same podcast.

The United States and Japan launched Keen Sword 2027: what this alliance is about

Keen Sword is a bilateral military exercise between the United States and Japan that is held every two years. The edition that has just begun, identified as Keen Sword 27, is the eighteenth since the series began in 1985, and it takes place between October 19 and 29, 2026, over eleven days. The opening ceremony took place on Ishigaki Island, the westernmost point of Japanese territory.

Around 56,000 personnel in total are taking part: about 45,000 from Japan’s Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) and about 11,000 U.S. military personnel. According to the official statement from Japan’s Joint Staff, on Japan’s side there are also about 6,100 vehicles, 40 ships and 260 aircraft.

The most striking piece of the operation is naval: the nuclear aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71), which leads Carrier Strike Group 9 (CSG-9), arrived at Yokosuka Naval Base together with the guided-missile cruiser USS Chosin (CG-65).

What is being tested

The exercise aims to improve coordination between the two forces in different crisis scenarios. Planned activities include maritime operations, air and missile defense, facility protection and repair, logistics and resupply, and casualty evacuation.

The underlying goal is to improve interoperability, information sharing and defensive coordination between the two countries. In fact, the logistics component and readiness to operate together in the future are a central part of what is being tested.

In what context this joint military exercise is taking place

The maneuvers come at a time of regional tension. According to international agencies, the exercise is taking place amid friction between China and Japan over Taiwan and in the face of Beijing’s growing military and economic influence in Asia-Pacific.

Neither the United States nor Japan officially said the maneuvers are aimed against China; the official messages pointed to shared values, crisis response and deterrence. At the same time, it was reported that U.S. Marines are deploying anti-ship and air-defense systems on the southwestern Japanese islands, near Taiwan.

According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), those with a full retirement age of 67 can receive 30% less if they start collecting at 62. By contrast, waiting until 70 allows them to receive 24% more than the full benefit.

These differences apply to people born in 1960 or later, whose full retirement age is 67. For those born earlier, the percentages may vary.

How much Social Security is paid at ages 62, 67, and 70?

The SSA states that the monthly benefit depends, among other factors, on the age at which you apply for retirement.

For those whose retirement age is 67, the percentages are as follows:

• At age 62, 70% of the full benefit is received, which represents a 30% reduction.
• At age 67, 100% of the corresponding benefit is collected.
• At age 70, 124% of the full benefit is received, that is, a 24% increase.

Why is Social Security reduced if claimed at age 62?

The Social Security Administration allows retirement benefits to begin at age 62, but applies a reduction when the claim is made before reaching full retirement age.

For those who must wait until 67 to collect the full benefit, moving retirement up to 62 means 60 months early.

In that case, the total reduction is 30% and, in general, it remains in effect for the period during which the person receives their retirement benefits.

The advantage of claiming benefits early is that payments begin sooner. However, the monthly payment is lower than if one had waited until full retirement age.

What happens if a person waits until age 70 to retire?

Those who delay the start of their benefits after reaching full retirement age can receive increases through the so-called delayed retirement credits.

According to the official SSA table, for a person whose full retirement age is 67, the benefit increases as follows:

• At age 67: 100% of the benefit.
• At age 68: 108% of the benefit.
• At age 69: 116% of the benefit.
• At age 70: 124% of the benefit.

This means that waiting three years after age 67 can increase the monthly payment by 24%.

However, the benefit stops increasing for delaying the claim once age 70 is reached. Therefore, waiting beyond that age does not generate additional credits for delayed retirement.

What should you consider before applying for Social Security?

The age chosen to retire depends on each person’s financial needs. Collecting from age 62 allows you to receive payments earlier, but in a smaller amount, while waiting until 70 increases the monthly benefit.

In addition, those who postpone retirement should review their Medicare enrollment starting at age 65, since delaying it can generate penalties in certain cases.

“Next year, I will give one of my SpaceX shares to every child in America. This will be the first of many”, the magnate tweeted last Monday, October 19, although he did not explain how he will make the transfers or what requirements the beneficiaries will have to meet.

How much is a SpaceX share worth?

The price of SpaceX shares makes it possible to gauge the financial scope of Musk’s promise. According to Wednesday, October 21’s quotation, each share stood at around $162.61.

For a family with two children, the combined amount today would be $325.22, provided the initiative goes ahead under the announced conditions.

It is worth noting that, looking ahead to next year, the share price may go up or down and, therefore, the final amount to be received could be different.

How many children would receive SpaceX shares

The proposal would cover some 72 million minors under 18 in the country, according to the estimate from the United States Census Bureau.

If each one received a share valued at $162.61, the theoretical total value of the operation would be around $11,708 million. This is an illustrative calculation based on the indicated quotation and the estimated number of minors.

When will he give away the shares

The businessman said he will make the delivery during 2027, but he has not yet given a specific date.

What is known about SpaceX’s financial situation

The promise comes after an important period for SpaceX’s shareholding structure. According to the information published about the transaction, the company went public in June 2026 and Musk retained between 42% and 43% of its shares.

In its first published financial accounts, corresponding to the first half of 2026, the company reported net losses of $5.488 million, a year-on-year increase of 257%.

With information from EFE.

The tax research service, released the estimates Sept. 11 as part of its yearly projection of inflation-adjusted tax figures.

Because the 2025 government shutdown left no consumer price index for October 2025, the estimates rely on 11 months of inflation data, from September 2025 through August 2026.

Where does the nearly $8,500 EITC figure for 2027 come from?

The projection lists the earned income on which the credit is calculated: $18,880 for families with two or more children, up from $18,290 in 2026. Federal law sets the credit at 45% of that amount for families with three or more children, which comes to $8,496.

The same formula produces the IRS’ official 2026 maximum of $8,231. Projected 2027 maximums by family size, with 2026 figures in parentheses:

• No qualifying children: $685 ($664)
• One child: $4,573 ($4,427)
• Two children: $7,552 ($7,316)
• Three or more children: $8,496 ($8,231)

What are the projected 2027 requirements to get the EITC on Form 1040?

Under IRS rules, filers must:

• Have earned income.
• Have no more than $12,600 in investment income, the projected 2027 limit.
• Have a valid Social Security number by the return’s due date for themselves, a spouse filing jointly and each child claimed.
• Be a U.S. citizen or resident alien all year.
• Not file Form 2555 for foreign earned income.

For families with children, the credit starts phasing out at $32,170 for joint filers and $24,660 for other filers. For families with three or more children, it would disappear at about $72,500 and $65,000, respectively.

Workers without children can qualify if they are 25 to 64 at year’s end, lived in the U.S. for more than half the year and can’t be claimed as a dependent.

When could the IRS deposit the 2027 EITC into bank accounts?

The projected amounts apply to income earned in 2027, so families would claim them on returns filed in early 2028. Returns filed next spring cover tax year 2026.

The credit is refundable, so families can receive it even if they owe no income tax. Filers who claim children must attach Schedule EIC to the return.

Thomson Reuters said the IRS would publish official 2027 figures later this year. IRS tables, which group incomes in $50 ranges, will set the final amounts.

For this reason, there are different ways to organize meals, among them, the famous “Meal Preps”, which are prepared in advance to eat during the week. They generally include ingredients that can last over time, such as grains, slow-cooked proteins, and other foods that retain their flavor and shape until the last day.

The 7 recipes to prepare ahead and eat during the week

According to the “Honest Cooking&Travel” website, there are several meals that can be prepared in advance.

Southwest-style energy chicken bowl

For this recipe, you will need:

• Skinless, boneless chicken breasts.
• Olive oil
• Seasonings to taste
• • Sugeridos: chile en polvo, pimentón ahumado, comino molido, polvo de ajo.
• Sweet potato
• Black beans.
• Corn kernels.
• Cooked brown rice.
• Avocado.
• Plain Greek yogurt.
• Lime juice.
• Fresh cilantro.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Cook one cup of brown rice and set aside.
2. Cut the sweet potato into cubes and bake with olive oil and salt at 400 °F (200 °C) for 20 to 25 minutes.
3. Season the breasts and cook them in a pan with olive oil for 6 to 7 minutes per side, until fully cooked. Slice.
4. Blend the avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, cilantro, and salt until you have a creamy dressing.
5. Place the rice as a base and add the chicken, sweet potato, beans, and corn. Keep the dressing separate.

Meatballs with mashed potatoes

For this recipe, you need:

• Ground beef.
• Egg.
• All-purpose flour.
• Onion.
• Assorted fresh herbs.
• Olive oil.
• Garlic cloves.
• Red chili.
• Chicken or beef broth.
• Tomato puree.
• Fresh thyme.
• Potatoes.
• Water and salt.
• Butter.
• Whole milk.
• Grated cheese.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Mix 900 grams of ground beef with egg, flour, herbs, and seasonings. Shape the meatballs.
2. Preheat the oven to 355 °F (180 °C) and brown the meatballs in a casserole dish with oil for 2 to 3 minutes per side.
3. In the same casserole dish, sauté the onion, garlic, and chili for 3 to 4 minutes. Add the broth, tomato puree, and thyme.
4. Add the meatballs and bake for 20 minutes or until fully cooked.
5. Boil the chopped potatoes for 15 to 20 minutes and mash them with butter, warm milk, and grated cheese.
6. Serve the meatballs with their sauce over the mashed potatoes.

Korean-style duck bulgogi

For this recipe, you need:

• Rice vinegar.
• Soy sauce.
• Toasted sesame oil.
• Green onions.
• Fresh ginger, peeled and chopped.
• Garlic.
• Sugar.
• Skinless duck breasts.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Blend the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, green onion, ginger, garlic, and sugar until you have a smooth marinade.
2. Place the duck breasts in a container, cover with the marinade, and refrigerate for between 1 and 24 hours.
3. Remove the duck from the marinade, dry it, and set aside.
4. Boil the remaining marinade in a saucepan for 5 minutes and keep it warm.
5. Brush the breasts with a little oil and cook them on the grill or in a pan until fully cooked.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes and slice thinly.
7. Serve over white rice with kimchi, add the hot sauce, and garnish with black sesame seeds.

Slow-cooked beef skirt with onions

For this recipe, you need:

• Skirt steak.
• Garlic powder.
• Cumin.
• Italian seasoning.
• Onion powder.
• Onions.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Mix 900 grams of beef skirt steak with garlic, cumin, salt, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and onion powder.
2. Let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
3. Cut two onions into thin slices and place them at the bottom of a slow cooker.
4. Add the marinated meat and half a cup of water (120 ml).
5. Cover and cook on low for about 8 hours, until the meat is tender.
6. Remove the meat, shred it with two forks, and mix it with the onions and their juices.
7. Serve hot, on its own or as a filling for tacos, sandwiches, or rice bowls.

Thai Larb rice bowls

For this recipe, you need the following ingredients:

• Peanut or vegetable oil.
• Garlic.
• Lemongrass.
• Brown sugar.
• Ground pork.
• Lime juice.
• Basil leaves.
• Fish sauce.
• Thai chili paste.
• Basmati or long-grain white rice.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Cook the white rice according to the package instructions and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the garlic with the lemongrass paste for 2 to 3 minutes.
3. Add the brown sugar and stir until it melts. Add 450 grams of ground pork and cook until fully cooked.
4. Mix the lime juice, basil, fish sauce, and Thai chili paste (optional).
5. Remove the meat from the heat and add the previous mixture, stirring to combine.
6. Divide the rice among four containers and place the meat on top.
7. Let cool briefly and refrigerate in airtight containers.

Fresh chicken quinoa salad

For this recipe, you need:

• Nonstick cooking spray.
• Chicken breasts.
• Dried thyme.
• Shredded carrots.
• Cooked quinoa.
• Chopped cucumbers.
• Lettuce leaves.
• Avocado.
• Tahini.
• Lemon juice.
• Garlic.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preheat the oven to 425 °F (218 °C) and place the chicken breasts on a greased baking sheet.
2. Season with sea salt and thyme. Bake for 30 minutes or until fully cooked. Let cool and cut into cubes.
3. Meanwhile, cook the quinoa according to the package instructions.
4. Prepare the dressing by blending tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper in a blender for 30 seconds.
5. Spread the dressing on the bottom of the jars and add, in this order, chicken, grated carrot, quinoa, cucumber, greens, and avocado.
6. Seal the jars and keep refrigerated. Shake before eating or serve on a plate. To prevent the salad from getting too soggy, the dressing can be stored separately.

Grilled Roti Wrap

For this recipe you need:

• Cucumber.
• Tomatoes.
• Onions.
• Ketchup.
• Cheddar cheese.
• Olive oil.
• Wrap tortilla.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Heat a griddle or skillet with a little olive oil.
2. Spread ketchup on the tortilla breads and add slices of cucumber, tomato, and onion.
3. Season with salt and pepper, add cheddar cheese, and fold the breads in half.
4. Cook the wraps on the hot griddle for about 5 minutes, until golden brown and the cheese melts.
5. Remove, cut in half, and set aside in an airtight container.

The recipes are meant to be made in quantity and stored, but it is recommended to make just enough for the week so that it does not go bad. Except for the salad that is ready to eat, all the options can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

According to the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT), the bridge carries an average of 33,000 vehicles per day and is an important connection for passenger and freight transport between both states.

The project began to be developed several years ago and received more than US$1 billion in federal funding during 2024. Minnesota and Wisconsin are also contributing resources to carry out the replacement of the structure, inaugurated in 1961.

When will the Blatnik Bridge between Wisconsin and Minnesota close?

According to the official schedule, work began in stages in September 2026, while the complete closure of the bridge is scheduled for March 2027.

The interruption of traffic would last approximately four or five years, during which the current structure will be demolished and its replacement built.

The Minnesota Department of Transportation reported that the project includes the following stages:

• 2026 and 2027: Completion of the design and progress on the first works.
• March 2027: Scheduled closure of the bridge and start of demolition work.
• Until 2031: Continuation of construction work on the new structure.
• 2032: Completion of complementary works, cleanup, and landscaping.

The dates correspond to the schedule planned by the authorities and may change during the execution of the project.

What will change for drivers during the bridge closure?

The closure of the Blatnik Bridge will force changes to the usual routes between Duluth and Superior.

According to the official update published on October 15, 2026, traffic will be diverted to the Bong Bridge, another connection between Wisconsin and Minnesota.

This change will affect drivers who use the Blatnik Bridge for their daily commute, as well as commercial transport traveling between both cities.

The authorities are also working on street improvements and access points to prepare alternative routes before the closure.

Changes in public transport routes

The Duluth Transit Authority (DTA) will also modify some of its services when the closure begins.

Among the main changes announced are:

• Route 110: will no longer use the Blatnik Bridge and will instead run over the Bong Bridge.
• Route 210: will alter its route to cover sectors in northern Superior.
• Routes 111 and 211: will continue operating, although they could experience schedule adjustments.
• Shuttle service in Duluth: a route will be enabled between the city’s transportation center and Garfield Avenue.

These changes aim to maintain connections between both cities during the years that the works last.

What will the new Blatnik Bridge be like?

The new bridge will retain the function of connecting Wisconsin and Minnesota, but will incorporate improvements aimed at increasing safety and facilitating traffic.

According to the information released by MnDOT, the structure will have four traffic lanes, full shoulders, and a shared path for pedestrians and cyclists.

It will also include modifications to allow the passage of large vehicles and improve the protection of the structure against vessel traffic.

The goal is to replace a bridge that has been in operation for more than six decades and ensure a more modern connection between Duluth and Superior.

White vinegar is one of the alternatives mentioned by the agency for removing these buildup deposits during home maintenance.

How to remove limescale and white stains from faucets with vinegar

To remove limescale and white stains from faucets with vinegar, it is advisable to follow these steps:

1. Identify the affected areas: check for white stains, mineral deposits, or residue around the aerator, the spout, and the base of the faucet. These whitish stains can appear with daily use and become more visible when the water evaporates and leaves deposits behind.
2. Check the manufacturer’s instructions: before spraying vinegar, make sure it is compatible with the faucet’s finish. Some delicate surfaces can be damaged by acidic products.
3. Apply the product carefully: if the manufacturer allows it, spray a small amount of white vinegar and then wipe the affected area with a cloth. Avoid leaving it on for too long without checking the product instructions.
4. Remove the residue: clean the surface with water and dry it with a soft cloth, as long as the manufacturer’s instructions allow it.

It is worth noting that the agency does not set a universal application time or guarantee that it is safe for all finishes. Therefore, it is important to check the specific conditions of each faucet before cleaning it.

Why do white stains appear on faucets

White stains are usually related to the minerals dissolved in the water. When drops remain on a surface and evaporate, they can leave visible residue that accumulates over time.

According to the EPA, the buildup of limescale or calcium can restrict the water flow, so regularly checking and cleaning faucets is also part of their maintenance.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service announced the recall Oct. 17. The items were made between about March 31 and Oct. 7 and shipped to stores and food service businesses nationwide and in Hong Kong.

The recall covers 68 products under nine brand names, including Kayem, McKenzie and Al Fresco. No illnesses have been confirmed.

What are the 3 codes to check for in the hot dog, bacon and deli meat recall?

Recalled packages carry one of three establishment numbers. Look for them inside the round USDA mark of inspection on the label:

• EST. M/P 7839: This number is on most of the recalled items, across all nine brands.
• EST. P 20935A: This number is on McKenzie and Al Fresco whole turkey breasts.
• EST. M 9520: This number is on four McKenzie uncured hams.

Don’t rule out a package because of its date. Expiration dates on the recalled items run as late as February 2027.

Which hot dogs, bacon and deli meat brands are included in the recall?

The products on the FSIS list fall into four groups:

• Hot dogs: Kayem Old Tyme franks and Kayem beef, lower-sodium and mini cocktail hot dogs are included. So are Fenway Franks and franks from McKenzie, Jordan’s and Essem.
• Bacon: The list includes Kayem thick-cut bacon, several McKenzie cob-smoked bacons and Winnisimmet St. Butchery slow-smoked bacon.
• Deli meat: Kayem bologna, Polish loaf and corned beef are recalled. So are McKenzie liverwurst, roast beef, hams and turkey breasts, along with Genoa, Triple M and Deutschmacher hams.
• Sausages and more: Al Fresco chicken sausages, breakfast sausages and meatballs are on the list, along with Kayem bratwurst, kielbasa and smoked brisket.

The full list on the FSIS website includes UPCs and lot numbers for every product.

Why were more than 1.5 million pounds of meat recalled?

On Oct. 1, a retail customer complained that Kayem products had arrived warm. The company, based in Chelsea, Massachusetts, traced the problem to a warehouse cooler that didn’t hold a steady temperature.

Regulators call this “temperature abuse.” Bacteria can multiply in perishable food that warms up, and deli meat is often eaten without any cooking step to kill them.

What should you do if you have recalled hot dogs, bacon or deli meat?

Don’t eat them. FSIS says to throw the products away or return them to the store. Check your freezer, too, since the hot dog labels say they can be frozen for up to three months.

Anyone worried about getting sick should contact a health care provider. For questions, consumers can contact:

• Kayem Foods customer service: Call 800-426-6100 or email info@kayem.com. Hours are 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. EDT, Monday through Friday.
• USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline: Call 888-MPHotline (888-674-6854) or email MPHotline@usda.gov.

FSIS will post lists of the stores that received the products at fsis.usda.gov/recalls once they’re available.

These early direct deposit services can make it easier to manage monthly expenses, although their availability depends on each bank receiving the payer’s information.

The proposal consists of making funds available before the usual deposit processing is completed. However, this does not mean that employers or government agencies have to change their payment schedules: the advance depends on the mechanism used by each financial institution.

Which banks advance salary and pension payments

Customers of Wells Fargo, Chase, Capital One, and Fifth Third can access programs that allow them to use certain direct deposits in advance. The conditions vary depending on the bank, the type of account, and the nature of the money received:

Wells Fargo

It offers Early Pay Day, a benefit that allows access to eligible direct deposits up to two business days early. The service requires no additional enrollment and does not charge a specific fee. It is worth noting that it is automatic for eligible direct deposits.

How it works depends on the information sent by the payer. When the bank receives notice of an incoming deposit, it can make the funds available before the established payment date, without waiting for the usual processing to finish.

The institution also clarifies that the benefit “is not guaranteed” and that availability may change between pay periods. Therefore, receiving the money two days early on one occasion does not mean the same will happen with the next payroll.

Chase

It offers early direct deposit options for eligible customers. It is necessary to check the terms of the relevant account and service to confirm the requirements and availability.

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Capital One

It allows certain deposits to be received up to two days early through its eligible checking accounts, such as 360 Checking. The feature is free for qualifying accounts and works with direct deposit.

In its customer information, it states that “early pay is a free and automatic feature” for checking accounts that meet the conditions.

Fifth Third

It offers Early Pay for certain accounts, including Momentum Checking, Momentum Savings, Express Banking, and Preferred Checking. In addition to salaries, the bank also covers some retirement payments and government benefits.

It also notes that it does not charge an additional fee for the service and does not require separate enrollment when the customer already meets the requirements.

Which deposits can be received before the payment date

Early direct deposits are intended for certain electronic payments that the bank can identify before their usual crediting date. They may include:

• Salaries and payroll: payments an employer sends by direct deposit.
• Pensions and retirement: certain periodic retirement income.
• Government benefits: some payments from public agencies, including Social Security, when they meet the bank’s requirements.
• Other specific income: certain tax refunds or other payments covered by specific programs, such as Fifth Third’s.

In general, physical checks, transfers, and other money movements are usually excluded from these benefits.

Wells Fargo expressly warns that the advance may vary and that the customer should verify that the funds are available before spending them. Fifth Third also notes that it does not guarantee that all payments will be received early.

In California, one of the biggest concerns is probate, the court process to transfer a person’s property after they die, which can take months and cost thousands of dollars. But homeowners have a simple tool to spare their families from it.

It’s called a Revocable Transfer on Death Deed, also known as a TOD deed. According to the Sacramento County Public Law Library, it lets the owner name the people who will inherit their home.

And when the owner dies, those beneficiaries receive the property without going to court.

How does the TOD deed work?

The Revocable Transfer on Death Deed The owner needs to fill out the deed and names of the beneficiaries.

The deed has no effect until the owner dies, so in the meantime they can still sell, refinance, or change their mind. It can be revoked at any time, for any reason.

It can be used for homes with one to four residential units, condominiums, or a single-family home with less than 40 acres of farmland.

What are the requirements to pass down a house without probate in California?

The rules are simple but very strict, and a mistake can void the deed:

• It must be signed in front of a notary.
• Since January 1, 2022, it must also be signed by two witnesses.
• It must be recorded at the county recorder’s office within 60 days of being notarized. If not, it becomes invalid.

The library warns that missing the 60-day deadline is the easiest way for a TOD deed to fail.

What heirs should know about TODD

When the owner dies, the beneficiaries don’t have to go to court, but they do have to notify all heirs and file several documents to put the property in their name.

There are also some limits:

• The home is not protected from debts. If the owner dies with a mortgage or other debts, the beneficiaries could end up with nothing.
• If the home is owned in joint tenancy or as community property, the co-owner receives the share first.
• If a beneficiary dies before the owner, their share goes to the other beneficiaries, not to their children.
• Title companies may refuse to insure the property for up to three years after the owner’s death, which can delay a sale.

Recipes for a dark roux generally estimate 45 minutes to an hour. Guillory-Bellow offers no set number: She tells viewers that the process takes a while and explains exactly how to tell when it is ready without a specific timer.

The video has drawn nearly 20 million views and more than 1.4 million likes on TikTok. Guillory-Bellow, a Louisiana-raised chef based in Los Angeles who specializes in Creole and Cajun cooking, posts there as @louisianacreoleinla.

A roux is flour cooked slowly in fat, and it is the base that gives gumbo its body and deep, toasty flavor. She opened her video by declaring it gumbo season and telling viewers their roux isn’t dark enough.

How do you know when gumbo roux is dark enough?

Guillory-Bellow tracks the roux through a series of color checkpoints. The first is a light tan she compares to peanut butter or pecan candy. That shade works for étouffée, a thick Louisiana stew often made with crawfish or shrimp, but not for gumbo.

The second checkpoint is the color of milk chocolate, and this is where she says many cooks get impatient and stop. The roux looks done at that stage, but it still produces a gumbo that turns out too pale.

The target is a deeper, darker brown beyond milk chocolate. Because the roux keeps darkening after it leaves the heat, she pulls it once it reaches that range rather than waiting for the darkest possible shade.

@louisianacreoleinla Ya’ll roux ain’t dark enough! Let’s fix that! #louisiana #gumbo #creole #337 #fall ♬ original sound - Adriánna Guillory-Bellow

Why does gumbo roux take up to an hour of nonstop stirring?

Her recipe uses two parts flour to one part oil: 4 cups of flour and 2 cups of oil. She works in a heavy-bottomed pot, in this case a cast-iron skillet, and blends the two completely before turning on the burner.

Once the mixture is smooth, it goes over medium heat and the stirring can’t stop. The roux browns gradually, but it can scorch just as fast, so it needs constant attention the whole time.

She keeps a spatula nearby to scrape the sides of the pot as it cooks. For first-timers, she acknowledges the work can wear out an arm. Her advice is to switch hands or have someone else take a turn at the spoon.

What do you do with gumbo roux once it’s dark enough?

When the roux hits the right shade, Guillory-Bellow takes the pot off the burner but keeps stirring. Heat stored in the pan cooks it slightly further while it cools, and the color deepens as it settles.

After it reaches room temperature, some oil separates and rises to the surface. She pours that layer off, then lays a paper towel on top to absorb whatever is left.

Extra roux can be stored in a mason jar. By her account, it keeps for a couple of months in the refrigerator and much longer in the freezer.

It is not a driver’s license or a Real ID: it is a different credential, called Digital ID, which is generated from the U.S. passport and is not valid for international travel.

What is a Digital ID

Digital ID is a digital identification that is created from the U.S. passport and is stored in the Wallet app on the iPhone. Apple makes this clear from the outset to avoid confusion: “It is derived from your government-issued passport, but it is not a government-issued passport nor a replacement for the physical passport.” In other words, it serves to identify you in certain contexts, but it does not take the paper passport out of the picture.

The digital and secure alternative for getting through airport checkpoints without a physical passport

Its main use is identity verification before boarding flights within the United States. At selected TSA security checkpoints, the traveler can present a Digital ID from the phone or watch instead of the physical document.

When sharing identity, the system offers three modes depending on how much information is provided: “All ID Information” (all the document information), “Age & ID Photo” (age and photo only), and “With Review” (with a prior review of what is shared). That ability to show only what is necessary is part of what makes the digital option safer than handing over the entire document.

What is needed to set it up

Before starting, you need to have the following ready and enabled:

• A valid U.S. passport (not expired).
• Face ID or Touch ID and Bluetooth enabled.
• An Apple account with two-factor authentication.
• A stable wifi or mobile data connection.
• The device region is set to the United States.
• Be the holder of the passport and be 13 years of age or older.

Step by step: how to create a Digital ID

The process is done from the Wallet app itself:

• Open Wallet and tap the button to add a card (the + sign).
• Choose “Driver’s License or ID Cards” and then “Digital ID”.
• Select whether you want it only on the iPhone or on the iPhone and the linked Apple Watch.
• Scan the machine-readable part of the passport photo page with good lighting.
• Place the iPhone over the passport chip so it can read it.
• Take a selfie to confirm your identity.
• Authenticate with Face ID or Touch ID and follow the on-screen instructions to submit the request.

People who use accessibility features can use their passcode instead of Face ID or Touch ID, both to set it up and to use it. The feature is available for iPhone 11 or later, or Apple Watch Series 6 or later, and the compatible operating system version iOS 26.1 or watchOS 26.1 and later.

Now, this does not happen for just any debt or from one day to the next: there is an amount at which it is triggered, a series of prior steps and several exceptions that protect the taxpayer.

From what amount does the seriously delinquent debt that puts your passport at risk become active

The trigger is what the IRS calls seriously delinquent tax debt. It is not just any outstanding balance: it is a legally enforceable federal debt that exceeds a threshold that is adjusted for inflation each year. For 2026, that figure is more than 66,000 dollars, including taxes, penalties and interest.

In addition to the amount, other conditions must be met: that the IRS has filed a federal lien notice and all administrative remedies have been exhausted, or that it has issued a levy.

IRS and the Department of State can deny and revoke passports: how the process works

When a debt meets those conditions, the IRS certifies it to the Department of State and sends the taxpayer notice CP508C, by regular mail, to the taxpayer’s last known address. One detail to keep in mind: the IRS does not send a copy of that notice to the taxpayer’s legal representative (power of attorney), so the notification goes directly to the person.

From that certification, the Department of State, as a rule, does not issue a new passport and can deny a new application or a renewal. But it can also go further and revoke one that is already valid.

The revocation of a valid passport is not automatic nor is it triggered by a closed list of causes. The IRS can ask the Department of State to revoke the document of any taxpayer whose debt has already been certified as seriously delinquent, but those referrals, according to the agency itself, “are determined based on the facts and circumstances of each case”.

Fuente: Archivo

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Exceptions: debts that are not certified

Owing taxes does not automatically mean losing your passport. The IRS does not certify, among others, the following situations:

• Debts being paid on time through an approved installment agreement.
• Debts covered by an accepted offer in compromise.
• Debts with a timely requested Collection Due Process (CDP) hearing regarding a levy.
• Cases with a pending innocent spouse relief request.
• Child support and FBAR penalties, which are outside this regime.

Nor is a person certified who has an account classified as “currently not collectible” due to economic hardship, a pending payment plan request or offer, a bankruptcy filing, the status of victim of identity theft for tax purposes, or someone who is in a federally declared disaster area.

The outlook points to a greater likelihood of above-normal temperatures across much of the northern US and along both coasts. It also indicates an increased chance of above-normal precipitation across much of the southern US and the East Coast, although these trends do not predict the exact weather conditions expected on Thanksgiving Day.

Temperatures could be warmer than usual across much of the US

The NWS Climate Prediction Center (CPC) favors above-normal temperatures across the northern two-thirds of the contiguous United States and along both coasts in November. The strongest signals appear across Washington, the interior Northwest, the Northern Plains, the Upper Mississippi Valley, and the Great Lakes.

However, the outlook does not point to warmer-than-average conditions everywhere. The CPC indicates equal chances of above-, near-, or below-normal temperatures across the Southwest, the Lower Mississippi Valley, and parts of the Central Plains and Intermountain West.

Forecast uncertainty is also higher in New England, Montana, and North Dakota, where cooler periods remain possible.

Rainfall chances vary by region

The November outlook favors above-normal precipitation across much of the southern US and the East Coast. The CPC reports particularly strong model agreement over parts of the Southeast, where the probability of above-normal precipitation reaches 60% to 70% in some areas.

By contrast, below-normal precipitation is favored across parts of the northern Intermountain West, the Northern Plains, and the Great Lakes. The outlook does not identify specific days when rain or snow may occur, so it cannot establish whether Thanksgiving travel or outdoor gatherings will be affected.

When will the Thanksgiving forecast become clearer?

The CPC’s monthly outlook describes broad climate trends rather than day-by-day weather conditions. It is based on climate models, sea surface temperature patterns, El Niño-related influences, and historical trends, and compares expected conditions with the 1991–2020 climate averages.

The agency has scheduled an updated November outlook for October 31. More specific forecasts for Thanksgiving will become useful closer to the holiday, as the NWS updates its shorter-range guidance. Until then, the monthly outlook should be treated as an indication of possible regional trends, not a forecast for November 26 itself.

The new capital will cover a strategic area of more than 250,000 hectares and will include a presidential palace, government buildings, housing, and public services. Work began in 2022 and is advancing in stages, with the goal of making Nusantara the country’s political center starting in 2028, while its development will continue over the coming decades.

One of the project’s most ambitious aspects is its goal of being supplied with 100% renewable energy and reaching net-zero emissions by 2045. To achieve this, Indonesia is promoting a strategy that includes energy efficiency, forest protection, and sustainable resource management.

Where are they building the futuristic 250,000-hectare city, and why will it be in the middle of the jungle?

Indonesia’s new capital is called Nusantara and is being developed in East Kalimantan province, on the island of Borneo. The Indonesian government is promoting this project to gradually move the capital’s functions from Jakarta and create a new administrative, economic, and urban center.

According to the Nusantara Authority, the project’s national strategic area covers more than 250,000 hectares, although not all of that surface will be occupied by buildings; it includes development zones and areas that are expected to be preserved as green and forest spaces. The plan calls for more than 75% of the capital’s area assigned to the project to be kept as green spaces, with protected sectors and land for food production.

The choice of East Kalimantan also responds to its location, close to cities such as Balikpapan and Samarinda, and to the existence of road infrastructure, airports, and water sources. Although the new capital is still unfinished, some of its facilities are already in operation, such as the Nusantara state mosque, where the first Eid al-Fitr prayer was held on March 21, 2026.

At the same time, work continues on government buildings and the infrastructure needed for the city to gradually assume its functions as Indonesia’s political capital.

What will Indonesia’s new capital be like and what smart buildings will it have?

Nusantara is designed to become a smart city, with technology applied to buildings, public services, transportation, and resource management. The Nusantara Authority published an official guide for the construction of smart buildings in August 2023, which sets criteria to improve efficiency in the use of energy, water, and air, as well as reduce emissions and optimize the conditions of indoor spaces.

Among the project’s constructions are the presidential palace, ministry offices, housing for officials, schools, hospitals, businesses, and public transportation networks.

Likewise, the work is being carried out in stages, with the tasks concentrated in the main government core and extending to other areas, according to the Nusantara Authority, in December 2025.

The official goal is for the city to be ready to function as the political capital in 2028, while its overall development will continue until 2045.

How will the city Indonesia is building in the jungle run on 100% renewable energy?

Indonesia set as a goal renewable energy facilities to cover 100% of Nusantara’s energy needs. The target is part of the environmental strategy for the new capital, which also aims to improve the energy efficiency of public buildings and reduce polluting emissions associated with the city’s operation.

The official strategy Nusantara Net Zero Strategy 2045, developed by the Nusantara Capital Authority with the support of the Asian Development Bank and funding from the Australian government, sets out a roadmap to achieve net-zero emissions in 2045.

The plan covers six main areas, including energy, forest and land management, waste, agriculture, and industrial activities.

The initiative also aims to preserve and restore the region’s forest ecosystems. In this sense, the government plans to develop a city that integrates urbanized areas with green spaces and protected zones.

The process is mainly aimed at those who already have Medicare Part A and need to add Part B, which covers doctor visits, outpatient services, and preventive benefits. To complete enrollment, applicants must meet the corresponding requirements and submit the documentation to the Social Security Administration (SSA).

Not completing the process within the corresponding period can cause delays in access to coverage and, in certain circumstances, a penalty in the monthly premium. That is why it is important to know who must submit form CMS-40B, how to send it and what deadlines Medicare sets for enrollment.

Who must submit form CMS-40B to enroll in Medicare Part B?

Form CMS-40B is the official application that allows enrollment in Medicare Part B, which covers certain medical services, outpatient visits, supplies and preventive benefits. It is intended for people who already have Part A and need to request Part B.

Those who must submit the form are:

• People who already have Medicare Part A and want to add Part B.
• Beneficiaries who did not enroll in Part B during the initial period and want to do so during the general enrollment period: between January 1 and March 31.
• People who are still working and have medical coverage through their employer, or who have group health insurance through their spouse’s employment, and want to enroll in Part B through a special period.
• People who recently retired or lost employment-related medical coverage.

The form can be viewed and downloaded in Spanish from the official website of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), in the section for Medicare Part B enrollment application (CMS-40B).

It is important to note that not all beneficiaries must complete this document, as it depends on each person’s situation and the enrollment period they are in.

How do you complete and submit form CMS-40B to obtain medical coverage?

To request Part B, the beneficiary must complete and sign form CMS-40B and send it to the local Social Security office. The SSA allows the application to be submitted by mail, fax, or in person.

The process requires paying attention to the following steps to complete it:

• Download the form: it is available in Spanish on the official CMS website.
• Fill in personal information: include the Medicare number, name, mailing address, and requested contact information.
• Indicate coverage status: answer the questions on the document, including information about employment-related medical coverage when applicable.
• Sign and send the application: submit the completed form to the local Social Security office by mail or fax, or present it in person. An office can be found in the official SSA locator.

It should be noted that there is an additional requirement for certain people who request Part B after having had health insurance through their job or their spouse’s job. In those cases, it may also be necessary to submit form CMS-L564, which allows that coverage to be verified.

Likewise, according to Medicare, this document applies, among other situations, to those who are still working, retired in the last 8 months, or recently lost employer-subsidized medical coverage. Users who have questions about the form or the procedure can resolve them by calling Social Security at 1-800-772-1213.

What happens if form CMS-40B is not submitted on time and when does Medicare coverage begin?

Not submitting form CMS-40B does not mean that Medicare automatically cancels coverage for all of its beneficiaries. However, those who need to enroll in Part B and miss the corresponding period may have to wait to access it and, in certain cases, pay a monthly late enrollment penalty.

Medicare provides for different enrollment periods, depending on each person’s circumstances:

• Initial enrollment period: generally lasts seven months, begins 3 months before the month in which the person turns 65, and ends 3 months after that month.
• General enrollment period: runs from January 1 to March 31 each year. Those who enroll during this period generally begin coverage on the first day of the month after enrollment.
• Special enrollment period: certain people may enroll without penalty after losing employment-related medical coverage. In many cases, they have 8 months from when the employment or the coverage based on it ends, whichever of those events happens first.

This last deadline is especially important for those who worked after turning 65 and delayed enrollment in Part B because they had employer health insurance. COBRA coverage or retiree insurance do not, by themselves, extend that 8-month special period.

The coverage start date depends on the applicable period and the circumstances of the application. That is why those who need to enroll should check the official conditions before submitting the form to avoid delays and possible penalties.

During that month, residents of New Jersey, North Carolina, Alabama, California, Arizona, and Vermont will be able to apply for their passports at the special events, provided they meet the requirements established for the process.

Where and when can you apply for a passport without an appointment?

The passport fairs that can be attended without an appointment are the following:

Salisbury, North Carolina

• Date: Saturday, November 7, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Location: Rowan Public Library (201 W Fisher St).

Birmingham, Alabama

• Date: Saturday, November 7, from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
• Location: Birmingham Post Office (351 24th St N).

Tucson, Arizona

• Date: Saturday, November 7, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Location: West Passport Center (7373 E Rosewood St).

What are the dates and locations where an appointment is required?

Some passport fairs require applicants to schedule an appointment before showing up. The dates and locations are as follows:

Whiting, New Jersey

• Date: Wednesday, November 4, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Location: Manchester Emergency Medical Services Building (82 Lacey Rd).

Tustin, California

• Date: Saturday, November 7, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Location: Veterans Sports Park (1645 Avenida Valencia).

Manchester Center, Vermont

• Date: Monday, November 9, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Location: Manchester Center Post Office (3452 Richville Road).

Nutley, New Jersey

• Date: Tuesday, November 10, from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• Location: Nutley Parks and Recreation Department (44 Park Ave).

Stowe, Vermont

• Date: Thursday, November 12, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Location: Stowe Town Clerk Memorial Hall (67 Main Street).

Hardwick, Vermont

• Date: Friday, November 13, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Location: Hardwick Post Office (52 Mill Street).

Check the numbers to request appointments by clicking here.

Who can take advantage of this opportunity?

The passport fairs are intended for U.S. citizens who need to apply for a passport using Form DS-11, either because they are applying for it for the first time or because they do not meet the requirements to renew it.

Among the people who can attend these events are:

• Minors under 16 who need to obtain a passport.
• People applying for their first U.S. passport.
• People who do not meet the renewal requirements must apply for a new document using Form DS-11.

It is important for applicants to bring the required documentation and the accepted payment methods to complete the process.

This deadline should not be confused with the general enrollment period, which runs from January 1 to March 31 each year and is intended for those who did not enroll in Part A or B during previous periods and meet the corresponding requirements.

However, changes requested during the Open Enrollment period do not take effect immediately, but instead begin to apply in 2027.

What changes can be made and until when is there time?

Beneficiaries have until Monday, December 7, 2026 to review their current coverage and request changes to their health and drug plans.

This is the deadline for plans to receive change requests.

According to the official Medicare website, the changes that can be made depend on the type of coverage each beneficiary has:

• Change Medicare Advantage plans: join, drop out of, or switch to another plan with or without Medicare Part C drug coverage.
• Change drug plans: join, cancel, or switch to another Medicare drug plan if you are in Original Medicare.
• Change the way you get coverage: switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan or vice versa.

Those who decide to return to Original Medicare may need to purchase a separate drug plan. They may also consider a Medigap supplemental policy, see the conditions here.

When do these changes take effect?

Changes requested during this year’s Open Enrollment period will take effect on January 1, 2027, regardless of the date on which the request was submitted.

Therefore, beneficiaries will continue with their current coverage through December 31, 2026, inclusive, and will begin using the new coverage as of the first day of 2027, provided the enrollment has been processed correctly.

The buildup of food scraps, grease, soap, and other residues can make it difficult for water to pass through and cause bad odors in the home.

However, there is a simple alternative that uses three household items, common around the house: baking soda, white vinegar, and hot water.

The procedure, recommended by the waste management program of the U.S. county of King County, allows you to try to unclog the drain with inexpensive ingredients that are easy to obtain.

How to unclog a pipe with baking soda, vinegar, and boiling water

To complete the method correctly, first apply the baking soda to the drain, then add white vinegar and finally rinse with hot water.

According to King County’s recommendations for safer household cleaning, this preparation can be repeated if there are still difficulties draining the water.

To put it into practice, the following ingredients are needed:

• 1/2 cup baking soda.
• 1/2 cup white vinegar.
• Boiling water, enough to rinse the drain.

Step by step: how to apply the mixture to unclog the drain

1. Remove visible residue: remove food scraps, hair, or other materials around the drain grate.
2. Add the baking soda: pour half a cup directly into the pipe.
3. Add the white vinegar: slowly add half a cup.
4. Let it sit: wait a few minutes for the mixture to come into contact with the accumulated residue.
5. Rinse with hot water: pour the water carefully to help flush away any debris that may be blocking the pipe.
6. Check the drainage: turn on the tap and see whether the water flows normally again.

Why cleaning pipes with baking soda and vinegar works

Baking soda is a compound with alkaline properties that is commonly used in household cleaning because of its mild abrasive properties and its ability to help remove surface dirt.

For its part, white vinegar contains acetic acid, a component that gives it acidic properties and can help remove certain mineral deposits, such as some limescale buildup, and surface residue.

Both vinegar and baking soda are two common household ingredients that can help with cleaning numerous surfaces if applied correctly, with methods endorsed by experts.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) expects much of the northern part of the country to experience warmer-than-average temperatures, while the South and East could receive more precipitation than usual.

The agency’s 2026-2027 Winter Outlook, released on October 16, covers December through February and also points to potential improvements in drought conditions across several regions.

Which parts of the US could have a warmer winter?

According to NOAA, the greatest chances of above-average temperatures extend across the Pacific Northwest, northern California, the northern Rockies, the Midwest, the Mississippi Valley and much of the eastern United States. Alaska is also expected to have warmer-than-average conditions.

Florida and parts of the Southeast have a different outlook, with temperatures more likely to remain near their seasonal averages. Hawaii and much of the Southwest have roughly equal chances of experiencing below-average, near-average or above-average temperatures.

These regional differences mean that El Niño’s influence will not be uniform across the country. Local weather conditions can still vary considerably, even when seasonal patterns favor warmer temperatures overall.

Where is NOAA forecasting more rain and snow?

The seasonal precipitation outlook points to wetter-than-average conditions across the southern tier of the country, stretching from the Southwest to the Southeast, as well as along the East Coast.

By contrast, drier-than-average conditions are more likely in Hawaii, much of Alaska, parts of the northern Mountain West and some areas around the Great Lakes. Parts of the western Pacific Islands are also included in the drier outlook.

NOAA links the expected pattern to a potential southward and eastward shift in the jet stream, the fast-moving current of air that helps steer weather systems. According to the agency, a very strong El Niño would favor stormier conditions across the South.

Increased precipitation could bring rain or snow, depending on local temperatures and atmospheric conditions. However, the seasonal outlook does not specify how much snow individual cities or states will receive.

Could El Niño help end drought conditions?

One of the main potential benefits of the forecast is the possibility of drought relief in areas that have experienced prolonged precipitation deficits.

NOAA expects drought conditions to improve or end in parts of the Southwest, the Southern Great Plains, the Southeast and the East Coast by the end of January 2027.

The outlook also identifies areas where drought could worsen or develop, including parts of the northern Rockies, northeastern Oregon and eastern Washington.

More precipitation does not automatically eliminate drought, since its effects depend on how much rain or snow falls, where it falls and how quickly it accumulates. NOAA also warns that heavy precipitation on dry ground can increase the risk of flash floods and mudslides.

The Saver’s Match program is intended for long-term savings. Withdrawals made before age 59½ may be subject to additional taxes and restrictions.

New retirement savings match from the IRS to eligible recipients

To help Americans and permanent residents who pay taxes to the IRS, authorities rolled out a new program to match up to 50% of the money people save for their retirement.

The Saver’s Match benefit will apply to retirement contributions made starting January 1, 2027. However, eligible beneficiaries will begin receiving the government’s contribution in 2028, when they file their tax returns for the 2027 tax year.

If a person is eligible for the program, they can claim the Saver’s Match when filing the 2027 federal tax return in 2028.

“The federal government matches up to 50% of what you contribute – a match of up to $1,000 per person each year deposited directly into your designated retirement account. For married couples filing jointly, the match applies to each spouse. Matching funds will go into a retirement plan or IRA and grow alongside your own contribution,” the IRS says.

Who is eligible for the Saver’s Match?

The benefit is not automatic for all American workers. It is designed for people with low or moderate incomes who meet certain requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old by the end of the tax year.
• Contribute to an eligible retirement plan, such as a 401(k) or an IRA.
• Not be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return.
• Be a US resident for tax purposes.
• Not meeting the tax definition of a student that excludes them from the program.

Additionally, the government’s contribution rate depends on income and filing status. Those who exceed certain income limits will not qualify for the benefit.

Income limits determine the matching rate

Eligibility for the Saver’s Match and the percentage of the government contribution depend on your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) and tax filing status.

MAGI starts with your adjusted gross income (AGI) and adds certain excluded or deducted amounts, including pre-tax retirement contributions and certain excluded foreign income. As income increases, the matching rate decreases.

Can you qualify for both the Saver’s Credit and Saver’s Match?

Generally, taxpayers cannot receive both benefits for the same retirement contributions. For the 2027 tax year, the Saver’s Match replaces the Saver’s Credit for eligible retirement contributions.

However, taxpayers who make eligible contributions to an ABLE account may still qualify for the Saver’s Credit, since the Saver’s Match does not apply to these accounts.

Few cases show that as clearly as the one involving Gregory Brian Myers and his wife, Barbara Ann Kelly, who have been in a legal fight with their bank over a property in Naples, Florida, for nearly 17 years.

It all lasted until Monday, October 19, when the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit rejected Myers’ latest challenge and upheld the dismissal of his lawsuit against the bank, according to court records available on Justia.

How the legal dispute over the property began

The case started in 2009, when U.S. Bank, which held the mortgage on behalf of a mortgage-backed securities trust, sued the couple over unpaid installments.

A Florida court ruled in the bank’s favor after finding that they had missed 66 monthly payments. Kelly had originally bought the property and later added Myers as a co-owner.

The couple appealed. Meanwhile, Myers filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in Maryland, which temporarily stopped the bank from moving forward.

The $5,000-a-month agreement between the couple and the bank

In November 2016, Myers and the bank reached an agreement: the appeals could continue, but the bank could not sell the property until they were finally decided in its favor.

In exchange, Myers had to deposit $5,000 a month into a court account in Maryland. He later said he had deposited a total of $70,000.

If the bank won, it could keep that money, but it had to count it toward the couple’s debt. In 2018, a Florida appeals court upheld the foreclosure, which ended the appeals that had blocked the sale.

The final verdict of the court over the couple’s lawsuit

In 2024, when the bank tried to schedule a sale of the property, Myers sued again. He accused the bank of breaking the 2016 agreement, of fraud, and of violating a federal law on debt collection practices.

The courts disagreed. The key point was that the agreement never promised to stop the sale permanently: it only prevented it while the appeals were pending. Since those appeals ended in 2018, the bank did not break the deal by moving forward.

A new Myers lawsuit was dismissed with prejudice, meaning he cannot bring the same claims again in that case.

According to the official Medicare website, the open enrollment period began on October 15, 2026, and will remain open until December 7.

During these weeks, people who already have Medicare can review their options and modify their coverage according to the type of plan they currently have. Changes made will take effect on January 1, 2027, as long as the plan receives the request within the established deadline.

Until when can Medicare coverage be changed in 2026?

The Medicare open enrollment period runs from October 15 to December 7, 2026.

This period takes place every year and allows beneficiaries to make certain changes to their health or drug plans.

According to Medicare, changes made during this period will begin to apply on January 1, 2027.

For the change to be valid, the chosen plan must receive the enrollment request before the December 7 deadline expires.

Who can change their Medicare coverage?

The available options depend on the type of coverage each beneficiary has.

According to Medicare, the following changes can be made during open enrollment:

• Medicare Advantage: enroll, disenroll, or switch to another Medicare Advantage plan, with or without drug coverage.
• Drug coverage: enroll, disenroll, or change Medicare prescription drug plans if you have Original Medicare.
• Type of coverage: switch from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage or back from Medicare Advantage to Original Medicare.

Medicare Advantage, also known as Part C, is an alternative to Original Medicare offered by private companies approved by Medicare.

Part D, for its part, corresponds to prescription drug coverage.

It is important to keep in mind that this period is intended to make changes to coverage plans and does not replace the initial enrollment periods for those who do not yet have Medicare.

How do you change Medicare plans for 2027?

Beneficiaries can check the available alternatives through Medicare’s official tools.

To assess a change, the agency recommends comparing the available plans based on each person’s health care needs and the medications they use.

The procedure can be carried out as follows:

1. Enter Medicare’s official plan finder.
2. Check the coverage options available in your area.
3. Compare costs, benefits, and drug coverage.
4. Select the plan that best suits your needs.
5. Complete the enrollment request before December

It is also possible to contact the chosen plan directly or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) for assistance.

What happens if a beneficiary returns to Original Medicare?

The official website warns that those who decide to leave Medicare Advantage and return to Original Medicare should check whether they need to separately purchase a prescription drug plan.

They can also consider adding Medicare supplemental insurance, known as Medigap, which helps cover certain out-of-pocket costs.

However, Medicare clarifies that there are restrictions on the periods during which Medigap can be purchased, so it should not be assumed that obtaining it is guaranteed.