Titled “Other Worlds: A Stranger Things Adventure,” the prequel will be set in the 1950s, decades before the group of friends in Stranger Things uncovered a supernatural conspiracy in their small hometown of Hawkins, Indiana, the platform said in a statement.

Stranger Things will return to Netflix with a new story set decades earlier

The new series will also take place before the events of the stage play Stranger Things: The First Shadow, which explores the past of Henry Creel, the character who later becomes the villain Vecna.

It will be the fourth project set in the Stranger Things universe since the original series ended late last year. Following the show’s success, the franchise expanded with the animated series Stranger Things: Tales from ’85 and the stage production.

The prequel will also have executive producers Matt and Ross Duffer, the brothers who created the original series, starring Millie Bobby Brown as Eleven, Finn Wolfhard as Mike Wheeler, Noah Schnapp as Will Byers, Sadie Sink as Max, Caleb McLaughlin as Lucas Sinclair, and Gaten Matarazzo as Dustin Henderson.

Set in the 1980s, Stranger Things follows a group of teenage friends as they uncover secret government experiments and a parallel dimension known as the Upside Down.

The acclaimed show’s fifth and final season became the biggest English-language television debut in Netflix history.

Since its premiere in 2016, Stranger Things has become a global phenomenon, generating more than 1.2 billion views across its first four seasons. Seasons four and five rank among Netflix’s most popular television seasons of all time, the streaming platform said.

SOURCE: EFE.

Shares bounced in premarket trading today, but that does not change the underlying story of news that could hardly have landed at a worse time for shares of big tech companies.

The Magnificent Seven posted mixed results this earnings season, with some of them falling more than 10% in a single session because of the market’s high bar. But Thursday’s correction is especially harsh for Anthropic, the company behind Claude, which had been planning an IPO for Nov. 16.

Analysts say Anthropic’s market debut would come amid a perfect storm, with Wall Street intensely focused on hyperscaler results and rumors that a Democratic majority in Congress would place legal limits on artificial intelligence development.

U.S. politics roils the market

Wall Street received the midterm results with caution, but not panic. In fact, the first reaction was not bad.

But Thursday was definitely a dark day.

President Donald Trump had said he would not object to artificial intelligence and offered a geopolitical explanation, arguing that rival powers, especially China, would not stop developing it.

The rumor stems first and foremost from Democrats’ past and present agenda, both during Joe Biden’s administration and in Congress.

That record includes Executive Order 14110, issued in October 2023, one of the broadest regulatory measures in the U.S., aimed at setting strict guidelines on AI safety, privacy and data protection, as well as the congressional commission led by that party that seeks a form of “governance” for the technology.

It remains to be seen whether the majority that will arrive in 2027 will actually push that legislative agenda and whether Trump will follow through on his promise to be a veto president.

How much Wall Street is willing to pay for AI

But behind the political debate lies a deeper question for Wall Street: how much investors are willing to pay for artificial intelligence growth, and how long they are willing to wait for that growth to turn into profits.

The move in tech stocks came after several months in which Wall Street had pushed company valuations to very demanding levels. The expectation was that massive spending on AI infrastructure would eventually translate into higher revenue and earnings.

But no one can yet say what happens if building that infrastructure takes longer, costs more or runs into political limits?

The concern is especially relevant because the AI business still requires huge investments. Nvidia, AMD, Broadcom and memory makers do not depend solely on demand for their products. Much of their outlook is tied to major tech companies continuing to build data centers at a very rapid pace.

That is the financial channel linking elections and the market. If a Democratic Congress pushes restrictions on data center construction, permits, energy consumption or certain AI applications, the problem for Wall Street would not be regulatory alone. It could affect the investment plans of the companies that currently underpin much of the boom.

For now, however, there is no approved legislation that would allow anyone to say that scenario will happen. What exists is a new hypothesis that the market has started to price in.

And the impact has already reached the primary market. Reuters reported that potential Anthropic investors are questioning whether the company can move ahead with its roadshow next week and sustain a valuation that had been discussed at around $1.5 trillion.

Some investors consider that figure to be at the high end of expectations and could demand a steeper discount to take part in the offering.

Anthropic has quarterly losses and major commitments to finance its expansion in infrastructure and computing power. In other words, the possible IPO has become a test of how much appetite the market still has for funding AI companies at extremely high valuations after Wall Street’s correction.

Friday’s reaction shows, however, that the market is not necessarily at a definitive turning point.

The discovery was made at the La Tejería site in El Castellar, in Teruel province. There, a team of paleontologists from the Teruel-Dinopolis Paleontological Foundation identified 14 tail vertebrae and several additional bones that allowed them to assign the remains to this dinosaur genus.

The study, published Sept. 14, 2026, in the scientific journal Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology, is the first recognized evidence of a diplodocus outside North America. The find also sheds light on the connections that existed between Europe and America during the Late Jurassic.

Remains of 150 Million-Year-Old Dinosaur Found in Teruel

The fossils were recovered at La Tejería, a site in the Teruel municipality of El Castellar. The researchers identified 14 vertebrae from the middle and rear portions of the tail, as well as several bones known as chevrons, which attach to the lower part of the vertebrae.

The analysis identified anatomical features typical of the Diplodocus genus, including large air-filled cavities in the vertebrae, elongated vertebral centra, and split chevrons. Those traits, along with comparisons with other fossils and evolutionary analyses, led the team to classify the specimen as Diplodocus sp.

The study was carried out by Sergio Sánchez Fenollosa, Josué García Cobeña, and Alberto Cobos, researchers at the Dinopolis Foundation. According to their conclusions, the specimen is among the most complete diplodocid remains found in Europe, although the bones recovered do not allow for a specific species to be determined.

What the Diplodocus Was Like, the Giant Dinosaur That Also Lived in Spain

Diplodocus was one of the most representative herbivorous dinosaurs of the Late Jurassic. It belonged to the sauropod group, animals characterized by bulky bodies, four sturdy legs, very long necks and relatively small heads.

These dinosaurs could reach about 25 meters in length, a size that made them some of the largest land animals of their time. Their extremely long tail, which tapered toward the end, was one of their most recognizable features.

Until this discovery, fossils attributed to the Diplodocus genus came from the Morrison Formation, a vast geologic unit in the western United States. The identification of remains in Teruel expands its known range and shows, according to the study’s authors, that these animals also lived in Europe.

Why the Teruel Discovery Changes What Was Known About Dinosaurs

The remains provide evidence that Europe and North America shared certain dinosaur groups about 150 million years ago, when the Atlantic Ocean was still in an early stage of formation.

According to the researchers, during the Late Jurassic there may have been episodes of dispersal and faunal exchange between the two regions. These connections would have allowed certain animals to move between territories that are now separated by thousands of miles of ocean.

The study bolsters that hypothesis, although some specialists believe a precise identification of the genus requires more evidence. José Ignacio Canudo, a paleontology professor at the University of Zaragoza, described the research as an important contribution but said the tail remains may not be enough to attribute them to Diplodocus with absolute certainty.

For their part, the authors maintain that the anatomical features and phylogenetic analyses support that identification. The original fossils are on display at the Aragonese Museum of Paleontology in Dinopolis, where they offer insight into one of the most important discoveries about the presence of large sauropods on the Iberian Peninsula.

Zelle instructs customers to report suspected fraud or scams directly to their bank or credit union. Although some situations may qualify for reimbursement, not every disputed payment is automatically covered.

When banks must investigate and reimburse unauthorized Zelle payments

The most important distinction is whether the customer authorized the transfer. According to Zelle, fraud occurs when someone gains access to a person’s bank account and sends money through Zelle without the account holder’s permission or involvement. These transactions are considered unauthorized and typically qualify for reimbursement after the bank reviews the case.

Federal law also provides protections for certain unauthorized electronic fund transfers. Under Regulation E, an unauthorized transfer is considered an error that financial institutions must investigate when consumers report it within the applicable time limits.

Banks generally have 10 business days to investigate a reported error. If they need more time, they can usually extend the investigation to 45 days, but they must provisionally credit the disputed amount to the customer’s account within the first 10 business days, subject to specific exceptions.

If the bank determines that an error occurred, it must correct it within one business day after reaching that decision. The consumer must also receive an explanation of the investigation’s outcome.

Reporting deadlines matter. Consumers generally have 60 days from the date the bank sends the statement showing the unauthorized transfer to report the problem. Different liability limits may apply when a lost or stolen access device is involved, making it important to notify the bank as soon as possible.

When Zelle may reimburse customers who were tricked into sending money

A different situation arises when someone personally approves a payment after being deceived. Zelle describes this as a scam rather than unauthorized fraud. For example, a criminal may impersonate another person or a business, persuade the victim to send money, and then fail to deliver the promised service or product.

In these cases, federal protections for unauthorized electronic transfers generally do not require banks to reimburse a payment the customer knowingly approved.

However, Zelle states that certain qualifying imposter scams may be eligible for reimbursement, even when the customer authorized the transaction. The company directs affected users to their bank or credit union to report the incident and determine whether the case meets the applicable requirements.

This distinction is essential: being deceived does not automatically guarantee a refund. Eligibility depends on the circumstances of the incident and the financial institution’s review.

What to do if someone steals money through Zelle

Customers who suspect fraud or a scam should contact their bank or credit union immediately, rather than relying only on Zelle’s customer support channels.

The financial institution is the one that handles the transaction and reviews the reimbursement claim. When reporting the incident, customers should explain whether they authorized the payment, provide the date and amount, identify the recipient if possible, and preserve messages, emails, phone numbers, and other evidence related to the incident.

Zelle also recommends reporting impostor scams to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Its fraud and scam guidance additionally points consumers to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).

The incident took place in Buenos Aires province nearly 10 years ago. However, the legal case went through several stages before reaching a final ruling. During that period, the retiree died, but the lawsuit continued through his heirs.

How did the case end with a multimillion-dollar payout?

Three neighboring women provided key testimony to reconstruct what happened outside the home. Two of them saw the line fall, while the third heard the impact. That is why their statements confirmed the pole was already leaning before the accident.

An engineering expert report determined that the base had deteriorated significantly. Moisture buildup from a nearby ditch weakened the wood buried directly in the ground. The reports showed that the company did not carry out the required maintenance.

The court investigation and the latest developments in the case

Division II of the Quilmes Civil and Commercial Court of Appeals heard the case. The judges reviewed the expert reports filed and confirmed Telefónica de Argentina S.A.’s liability. For that reason, the court upheld the lower-court ruling.

The court set damages at 12.4 million pesos (more than USS$8,000), plus interest. The sum includes amounts for physical disability, emotional distress, and psychological treatment. In this way, the final amount will cover medical expenses and the consequences of the accident.

The appeals court dismissed the telecommunications company’s appeal of the conviction, saying the company’s arguments did not challenge the original ruling.

Although the ruling did not directly link the victim’s later death to the blow he suffered, the family of the older man who left his home and was hit by the telephone pole will receive a multimillion-peso payout of nearly $13 million.

The policy limits the locations where applicants can complete their consular interviews and establishes specific procedures for those who want to transfer their cases to another embassy or consulate. It also includes limited exceptions for certain circumstances.

Why immigrant visa applicants must attend interviews in their countries

Under the Department of State’s policy, the NVC schedules immigrant visa interviews in the applicant’s country of residence or, upon request, in the country of nationality.

Applicants who live in countries where the US government does not conduct routine visa operations must use a designated immigrant visa processing post. This may be a US embassy or consulate in another country assigned to handle applications from that location.

The rule applies to immigrant visa applicants, not people applying for temporary nonimmigrant visas, such as tourist, student, or work visas.

Can applicants request an interview in another country?

Applicants who want to transfer their cases to a different embassy or consulate after the NVC has scheduled an appointment must contact the NVC through its Public Inquiry Form. They should not contact the consular section directly.

The agency may request documents to confirm that the requested location is the applicant’s country of residence or nationality, or to determine whether an exception applies.

The State Department says exceptions may be granted in limited cases involving humanitarian concerns, medical emergencies, or foreign policy reasons. Existing immigrant visa appointments generally will not be rescheduled or canceled under the policy.

Minimum Wage Increase in 2027: Which States Are Raising It and to How Much

According to the schedules already confirmed by state laws and labor agencies, these are the states raising their hourly minimum wage starting Jan. 1, 2027:

• Washington: $17.73
• Connecticut: $17.48
• California: $17.40
• Rhode Island: $17.00
• New Jersey: $16.48
• Arizona: $15.65
• Colorado: $15.71
• Maine: $15.70
• Nebraska: $15.26
• Michigan: $15.00
• Virginia: $13.75
• South Dakota: $12.30
• Minnesota: $11.87
• Ohio: $11.40
• Montana: $11.20

The Gap With the Federal Minimum

The figure that puts everything in perspective is the national floor. The federal minimum wage remains US$7.25 an hour, unchanged since 2009. Because that rate has fallen so far behind, most states have set higher minimums of their own, and several of those raising wages in 2027 will more than double the federal figure. That is, to a large extent, why the actual minimum wage depends so much on the state where someone works.

Note: The list is not final yet

The number of states raising wages in 2027 will likely grow in the coming weeks. Several states that adjust for inflation have not yet released their new 2027 rate, and they will be added once they do.

The mother never stopped filing complaints with the authorities and kept the case active for years. However, the court investigation remained stalled because there were no concrete clues about the child’s whereabouts.

In the end, the discovery of skeletal remains allowed the case file to move forward and the facts to be clarified.

Where and how were the baby’s traces found nearly half a century later?

For decades, police teams focused their searches on rural areas, private homes, and old health centers. Authorities followed dozens of false leads and theories about an alleged illegal adoption outside the province. However, none of those operations produced any positive results in the case.

The decisive turn came when prosecutors reviewed the registry books and archives of the Cemetery of the Capital. Investigators found irregularities in the burial record for an unidentified infant laid to rest in a mass grave in 1986. For that reason, the judge ordered the immediate exhumation of the section to recover the biological remains.

During the excavation in the cemetery plot, experts found the bones along with a small metal medallion. The mother recognized the object without hesitation as the item her baby was wearing when he disappeared. Meanwhile, prosecutors ordered genetic testing to scientifically confirm the family relationship.

The forensic medical service completed the required biological tests on the material recovered from the area. Thus, DNA testing confirmed the genetic match between the woman and the victim. Prosecutors, meanwhile, are investigating the chain of responsibility for the concealment of the information for nearly 40 years.

In this way, the woman who had searched for her baby since 1986 was able, nearly 40 years later and thanks to the medallion, to identify the remains and bring an end to a journey of nearly half a century.

In these cases, and as a way to formally identify themselves, officers must always carry an HSPD-12 card, along with an official agency-issued identification badge.

What it means when an IRS employee shows an HSPD-12 card

Although visits are almost never made without notice or prior contact -except in special situations, such as when a criminal investigation is underway-, taxpayers may have doubts about the identity of the person making the visit and feel skeptical about letting them into their home or business, or even about giving them sensitive information.

In that context, the HSPD-12 card and the IRS official ID serve as proof of who the officer is.

What types of IRS inspectors may visit

There are four different types of in-person visits agents may make:

Tax officers conduct audits. In these cases, they review the records and information previously provided in tax returns. In general, these visits are always scheduled.

The IRS collection officers arrange visits to settle outstanding obligations and explain to taxpayers what happens if they do not pay what they owe on time.The only case in which their visits are made without notice is when official communications are repeatedly ignored.

Special agents handle investigations related to tax crimes and may call, contact people through third parties and show up without warning.

Finally, fuel inspectors check locations where taxable fuel is produced or stored. They are also authorized to show up without notice.

Taxpayers’ rights during these IRS visits

Both the HSPD-12 card and the identification all officers must present show the IRS employee’s photo and serial number. If the officer does not show them on their own, taxpayers may ask to see these documents.

In addition, the agency says anyone who still has doubts about the identity of IRS officials should call 911.

“If the person does not show you these IDs or if you are not sure about them, call the number on the card provided by the officer or agent,” it says.

If someone has an outstanding tax debt and does not respond to the agency’s notices on time, the IRS may launch different actions, including levies on property, bank accounts or income.

Why must the IRS be told about address changes?

The IRS recommends reporting any change of address to make sure tax notices and refund checks reach the taxpayer. The agency uses the last address on file to send bills, debt notices and official communications.

That means if someone moves and does not update their information, they could miss that they have a balance due, that they need to submit additional documents or that a collection action has been initiated against them.

The IRS also warns that address change requests can take up to 45 days to process.

How can the personal information on file with the IRS be updated?

The agency offers several ways to report an address change:

• Form 8822: used to update the mailing address of individuals.
• Form 8822-B: used to report a change of address or responsible party for a business.
• Tax return: if the move happens before the next return is filed, the new address can be included.
• In writing: a signed notice can be sent with the full name, old address and new address, as well as the corresponding SSN, ITIN or EIN.
• By phone: it is also possible to report the change directly to the IRS, after identity verification.

What does the IRS do when it decides to carry out a levy?

Before carrying out a levy, the IRS must meet several requirements:

• Determine the amount of tax owed and send a bill or Notice and Demand for Payment.
• Confirm that the taxpayer has not paid or resolved the debt.
• Send a Final Notice of Intent to Levy and Notice of Your Right to a Hearing at least 30 days before taking the action.
• Give advance notice that it may contact third parties to determine or collect the tax debt.

Once the process begins, the IRS may levy wages and commissions, bank accounts, income and financial assets, rental income, automobiles, boats and homes.

What happens if you do not respond to the Final Notice of Intent to Levy?

If the taxpayer does not respond, does not pay the debt or does not reach an agreement with the agency, the IRS may proceed with the levy once the legal deadline to respond to the notice has passed.

The final notice also explains the right to request a collection due process hearing before the IRS Independent Office of Appeals.

To exercise that right, you generally have 30 days from the date of the notice to file a request using Form 12153. During that process, the taxpayer can discuss payment options and, under certain conditions, challenge the debt.

The procedure is handled by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), and the form can also be used to request a change to a nonimmigrant visa category.

Who can use Form I-539 to extend their stay?

On its official website, USCIS explains that Form I-539 may be used by people admitted under certain nonimmigrant visa categories who meet USCIS requirements:

• Tourist or business visitors with B-1/B-2 visas may request authorization to stay longer for temporary reasons.
• Academic students with F visas may request certain changes or extensions of status, depending on their immigration situation.
• Exchange visitors with J visas may file requests related to their status, as appropriate.
• Dependents of temporary workers or family members with derivative status may apply for an extension through this form.

What is Form I-539 for, and how should it be used?

Form I-539 allows applicants to request from USCIS an extension of an authorized stay or a change to another nonimmigrant visa category.

It can also be used to request reinstatement of status for certain F-1 and M-1 students who have fallen out of status.

To file the application, follow these steps:

1. Complete Form I-539 with your personal information, immigration information and the type of request you want to make.

2. Attach the required documents, such as the I-94 record and any specific evidence requested for your immigration category.

3. Pay the applicable fee based on the type of filing.

4. Submit the application online if your category is eligible, or by mail following the official instructions.

USCIS recommends filing the application at least 45 days before the authorized stay expires. In general, it must be submitted before the expiration date listed on Form I-94.

Who cannot use this form to extend their stay or change status?

USCIS says certain immigration categories cannot use Form I-539 to request an extension or change of status.

The main restrictions include:

• People admitted under the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) cannot extend their stay or change their immigration status through this process.
• People in transit (C visa) cannot request an extension with Form I-539.
• Crewmembers (D visa) cannot use this form to extend their stay.
• Fiances of U.S. citizens (K-1 and K-2) cannot request an extension with this form.
• Principal temporary workers: people in certain employment categories, such as H-1B, H-2A, H-2B, L-1, O-1, P-1, R-1 and TN, must file for extensions using Form I-129, submitted by the employer, not Form I-539.

The holiday will also have an impact on banking activity, the operation of some stores and public schools. However, not all private businesses are required to close; hours will depend on each company’s decision.

Which offices and services will be closed

Ahead of Thursday, Nov. 26, USA.gov says on its website that, “during federal holidays, government offices, banks and some private-sector businesses are closed.”

Among the main services that will be affected are:

• Federal government offices: they will be closed for the holiday.
• Banks: traditional branches will not offer in-person service because of the bank holiday observed by the Federal Reserve System.
• Post offices: the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) will not have regular service at its branches.
• Public schools: many districts suspend classes during Thanksgiving, although exact dates depend on each local school calendar. New York City Public Schools, Albuquerque Public Schools and Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) are among the districts that have already confirmed they will be closed.
• Stores and private businesses: some businesses will close for the day, while others will stay open with special hours.

The Postal Service specifically includes Nov. 26 on its 2026 holiday calendar. The Federal Reserve also lists that date as a nonbusiness day for its operations.

Why Thanksgiving is celebrated

Thanksgiving is an American tradition celebrated every year on the fourth Thursday in November. Its history is often linked to a shared meal in 1621 between English settlers in Plymouth, Massachusetts, and members of Native communities in the region, after a successful harvest.

However, the holiday did not immediately become a national celebration. In 1863, during the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a national day of Thanksgiving for the last Thursday in November.

The date was finally set in 1941, when Congress approved a joint resolution to set the holiday on the fourth Thursday in November.

How Thanksgiving is celebrated and what happens the next day

Thanksgiving is one of the country’s most important family celebrations. Millions of people travel to be with loved ones and share a traditional meal. Common dishes include roast turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie.

The date also marks the start of one of the year’s biggest shopping periods. Friday, Nov. 27, will be Black Friday, a day of discounts and promotions in brick-and-mortar stores and on e-commerce platforms.

The policy alert, issued on August 25, 2026, updates the USCIS Policy Manual and reinforces the agency’s authority to conduct personal investigations, also known as neighborhood investigations, as part of the naturalization process. The measure applies to people seeking citizenship through Form N-400.

Who could face a neighborhood investigation?

USCIS has discretion to decide whether an investigation is necessary after reviewing the evidence in an applicant’s file. Officials may contact neighbors, landlords, employers, coworkers, and business associates who can provide information about the applicant’s background and conduct.

The investigation generally covers the five years before the person files the citizenship application. However, USCIS may examine a shorter or longer period depending on the circumstances of the case.

How the investigation could affect a citizenship application

Applicants may be asked to provide testimonial letters from people who know them and can offer specific information about their character and eligibility for naturalization. USCIS can consider these documents when deciding whether a neighborhood investigation can be waived, but submitting letters does not guarantee an exemption.

If the agency conducts an investigation and obtains unfavorable information that could lead to a denial, it must notify the applicant and give them an opportunity to respond. USCIS makes the final decision based on the evidence and the individual circumstances of each case.

Piker streamed for more than 13 hours as Democrats won control of the House and Senate. At times, more than 200,000 people were watching, nearly six times his usual audience.

His stream logged 1.75 million hours of watch time, the most of any individual streamer that night, according to Streams Charts, an analytics firm that monitors livestream audiences.

What did Hasan Piker mean by ‘Woke 3.0’?

Piker said the “Hasan Piker Democrats” name was the Republicans’ idea, not his. “As the leader of the Democratic Party coalition, I’m officially branding woke back,” he said.

“We’re skipping Woke 2.0, we’re getting to Woke 3.0,” he added, and he also joked that he was now Senate majority leader.

“Woke” began as shorthand for awareness of racial and social injustice, and conservatives now often use it to mock progressive politics. “Woke 3.0” wasn’t a new phrase, but it spread fast online on election night.

Behind the jokes, Piker pledged to “hold the Democratic Party to account” on an agenda centered on working-class interests. He also said the party should have run more socialists in its primaries.

Who is Hasan Piker?

Piker, known online as HasanAbi, is a self-described socialist. He grew from a fringe internet commentator into one of the most-followed progressive voices online, with an audience that skews young and male.

He has 3.1 million followers on Twitch, 2 million each on Instagram and YouTube, 1.9 million on TikTok and 1.7 million on X.

In an interview with NBC News on Thursday, Piker said young men had turned to Democrats to punish the Trump administration over the cost of living. He warned they could become “double haters,” voters who dislike both parties, if Democrats don’t deliver.

He is also controversial. Rep. Brad Schneider, D-Ill., has called him an “unapologetic antisemite” over his remarks about Israel, and the Anti-Defamation League has raised similar concerns. Piker denies being antisemitic.

Why did Republicans tie Democrats to Hasan Piker?

Before Election Day, President Donald Trump called Piker a “terrible liability” for Democrats, and Vice President JD Vance called him Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed’s “best friend.”

In Texas, Attorney General Ken Paxton, a Republican, used Piker’s comments to paint his Democratic opponent, state Rep. James Talarico, as “bought and paid for by the Democratic Socialists.” The Democratic Socialists of America is a political group that backs socialist candidates.

Both Democrats won. El-Sayed became the first Muslim elected to the U.S. Senate, and Talarico defeated Paxton.

Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., who joined Piker’s stream on election night, said the results should push more Democrats to engage with him.

The document is often required to complete certain immigration procedures, request an extension of a stay, and handle other matters related to legal presence in the United States.

What Is Form I-94 and Why Is It Important?

Form I-94 is the official record of the arrivals and departures of foreign nationals traveling to the United States. CBP generally issues it electronically, and it allows authorities to track each visitor’s immigration movements.

In addition, it shows until what date a person is authorized to remain legally in the country. That is why it is important to verify the information and respect the authorized length of stay to avoid immigration problems.

Those entering by land can request it in person at the port of entry or in advance online, up to seven days before traveling.

Who Does Not Need to Get Form I-94?

In general, people entering the United States must have an I-94 or I-94W permit, the latter for the Visa Waiver Program.

However, the following are exempt:

• U.S. citizens.
• Foreign residents returning to the country.
• Foreign nationals entering with immigrant visas.
• Most Canadian citizens visiting the United States or in transit.

For What Procedures Is Form I-94 Usually Required?

Form I-94 serves as proof of a person’s immigration record and is often required to carry out certain procedures related to their legal status in the United States.

It also allows people to:

• Check their record of entries and departures from the country over the past 10 years.
• Verify the authorized deadline to remain in the United States.
• View and print the admission record for entry into the country.
• Obtain a digital version of the document to keep on a cellphone.

How Much Does Form I-94 Cost?

As of Sept. 30, 2025, the fee for Form I-94 increased from $6 to $30.

The fee applies to requests made online, through the CBP One app, or in person at a land port of entry into the United States.

The agency is handling more than 125,000 taxpayers who earn more than $400,000 a year and did not file for years, case by case.

IRS investigates, one by one, people who earned more than US$400,000 and did not file tax returns

The initiative was launched in February 2024 and targets so-called high-income “nonfilers”: taxpayers who earn $400,000 or more a year and still did not file their tax returns in one or more of the tax years from 2017 to 2021.

In total, the IRS identified more than 125,000 of these cases. These are not minor mistakes or matters of interpretation, but people with very high incomes who simply did not meet their filing obligation.

How they are detected

The key is that the IRS already knows how much they earned. The agency identified them thanks to information sent by third parties -- employers, banks and other payers -- through forms such as the W-2 and 1099s, which show income above $400,000.

In other words, the IRS has a record of that income even if the person never filed a return; the failure to file, in the face of that data, is what raises the alarm.

Where the investigations stand now

According to the latest available data, the situation is one of reactivation. After the delays that were detected, the IRS began moving forward again in early 2026 on high-priority cases that had stalled, and the backlog of cases waiting to be assigned for collection had been shrinking by late 2025.

Even so, in the latest measurement, a very large share of the cases still had not been resolved, with no return filed and no tax assessed, so most of the work remains unfinished.

At the same time, the IRS says it is expanding its pursuit of nonfilers, relying increasingly on data analysis, automation and artificial intelligence to select and prioritize cases.

She had imagined his voice countless times. When the phone finally rang and he spoke, she said, It didn’t feel like talking to a stranger: “it was like being at home.”

A DNA test and a bar of soap from a New York hotel changed Skiles and Lonardo’s lives and let the family come together.

Jennifer Skiles’ childhood was marked by loss

Skiles was born in 1979 in Germany and lived with her biological mother until she was 3 years old. She then was adopted by a family in Virginia, and what started happily later became painful. “My home life was wonderful until it wasn’t,” she told WBIR Channel 10.

By 25 she had lost both of her adoptive parents. “For me, it was like I lost everybody at one time,” she said. That’s when she decided to find her biological mother, Cheryl.

Together they built a close relationship, but in 2017, Cheryl died in a car crash. Before her death, she told her daughter her father’s name so she could find him.

Who was Skiles’ father?

Her parents had met in the late 1970s while serving in the Army at Fort Dix, New Jersey. They spent a weekend together in New York, stayed at the Hotel Chelsea, and never spoke again. Lonardo never knew he had a daughter.

In 2022, a DNA test on Ancestry finally led Skiles to his family in Cranston, Rhode Island. A paternity test confirmed the result on Father’s Day that year, according to The Washington Post.

The soap he kept for decades

Lonardo had saved a small bar of soap from that hotel. “Being a 19-year-old kid, I don’t know why, but just something told me to save this,” he said. For Skiles, it meant everything: “I always mattered.”

Since then, they have visited every few months. Her three children call him grandpa, and she has traveled to Italy to learn about her roots.

On January 22, surrounded by family at Cranston City Hall, Lonardo officially adopted her. “I want my dad’s name to be attached to me,” Skiles said.

For him, the reunion changed his life. “Sometimes people will meet me, I say, you might want to shake my hand. I’m the luckiest guy you’re ever gonna meet in your whole life,” he said.

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Una publicación compartida por Jennifer Skiles (@vaultoftreasuresjskiles)

Democrats were projected to win both the House and the Senate, ending Republicans’ hold on both chambers. All six measures dealt with who can vote in state and local elections. Results remain unofficial until each state certifies its count.

Five of the measures were constitutional amendments that state lawmakers sent to voters. Alaska’s was a citizen initiative, meaning supporters gathered signatures to put it on the ballot, and it changes state law instead.

Which 5 states passed citizenship-only voting rules, and by how much?

All five measures won comfortably, according to near-complete unofficial counts:

• West Virginia, 79.6% to 20.4%: The constitution now says only state residents who are also U.S. citizens are entitled to vote.
• Alaska, about 70%: A new state law says only U.S. citizens may vote in any election. Alaska counts some mail ballots after Election Day, so the final share may shift slightly.
• Arkansas, 69.1% to 30.9%: The constitution now limits voting to U.S. citizens who meet the state’s other voter requirements.
• Kansas, 63.6% to 36.4%: U.S. citizenship is now part of the constitution’s definition of an eligible voter.
• South Dakota, 61.5% to 38.5%: The constitution now bars anyone who isn’t a U.S. citizen from voting in any election.

Why did citizenship-only voting win against the Democratic wave?

The idea has long drawn support beyond the Republican base. Before Tuesday, voters had approved all 15 statewide citizenship-only voting measures from 2018 through 2025, by an average of 73%, according to Ballotpedia, a nonprofit that tracks ballot measures.

Kansas shows how far that support reaches. On the same ballot that approved the amendment, voters picked Democrat Adam Hamilton over Republican Sen. Roger Marshall. Hamilton is the state’s first Democratic U.S. senator since 1932.

State lawmakers were more divided. In Arkansas, Kansas and South Dakota, Republicans backed the amendments almost unanimously while most Democrats voted no. West Virginia’s passed its Legislature with support from every lawmaker in both parties.

Arizona’s Proposition 144 was the only one to fail. It paired the citizenship language with stricter ID rules for in-person and mail ballots, a ban on foreign election spending and other changes. Opponents argued it threatened voting by mail, and Arizona’s constitution already limits voting to U.S. citizens.

What do the citizenship-only voting rules change for voters?

For most voters, nothing right away. Federal law has barred noncitizens from voting for president and Congress since 1996. Alaska, Arkansas, Kansas and South Dakota already required citizenship to vote, either in state law or in their constitutions.

In Alaska, the state Department of Law concluded before the vote that the measure wouldn’t change who qualifies to vote. Supporters argued the existing law was unclear and needed updating.

The bigger effect is on what states and cities can do later. Federal law doesn’t cover local races, and a few places, such as San Francisco for school board elections and Takoma Park, Maryland, let some noncitizens vote. With the rule written into these state constitutions, reversing it would take another statewide vote.

Opponents in several states warned that the new wording could later be used to justify requiring voters to prove their citizenship when they register.

The IRS does not take the passport itself. Only the State Department has the authority to issue, limit, deny or revoke passports. Generally, it will not issue a passport to a taxpayer once it receives the IRS certification, and it may deny an application or revoke a current passport.

When does a tax debt become “seriously delinquent”?

A seriously delinquent tax debt is a legally enforceable, unpaid federal tax debt, including assessed penalties and interest, that totals more than $66,000 in 2026. The threshold is adjusted yearly for inflation and was $64,000 in 2025.

These debts include:

• U.S. individual income taxes.
• Trust fund recovery penalties.
• Business taxes for which the taxpayer is personally liable.
• Other civil penalties.

Owing more than the threshold is not enough on its own. The IRS must also have filed a Notice of Federal Tax Lien and all administrative remedies under the law must have lapsed or been exhausted, or the IRS must have issued a levy to collect the debt.

Which debts are not certified?

The IRS says seriously delinquent tax debts do not include:

• Child support.
• Debts being timely paid through an approved installment agreement.
• Debts being timely paid under an offer in compromise accepted by the IRS.
• FBAR penalties (Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts).
• Settlement agreements with the Department of Justice.
• Debts for which a collection due process hearing on a levy was timely requested.
• Debts suspended because of a request for innocent spouse relief.

The IRS also will not certify anyone who:

• Has an account determined to be “currently not collectible” due to hardship.
• Has a pending request for an installment agreement or an offer in compromise.
• Has been identified as a victim of tax-related identity theft.
• Is in bankruptcy.
• Is located in a federally declared disaster area.
• Has an IRS-accepted adjustment that will fully satisfy the debt.

Certification is also postponed for taxpayers serving in a designated combat zone or taking part in a contingency operation.

What happens once the debt is certified?

When the IRS certifies the debt, it sends a Notice CP508C by regular mail to the taxpayer’s last known address. The IRS does not send a copy to the taxpayer’s power of attorney.

If a taxpayer with certified debt applies for or renews a passport, the State Department sends a letter and keeps the application open for 90 days. In that time, the taxpayer can:

• Enter a satisfactory payment arrangement with the IRS.
• Pay the debt in full.
• Resolve any erroneous certification issue.

If no arrangement is made within 90 days of the letter, the application is denied and closed, and the taxpayer must submit a new one.

For passports already issued, the IRS may ask the State Department to revoke it. These referrals are decided case by case, and before sending one the IRS sends Letter 6152, asking the taxpayer to call to resolve the account. Taxpayers who are overseas may receive a limited-validity passport that allows them to return directly to the United States.

How can the certification be reversed?

Taxpayers who can’t pay in full may qualify for reversal through an alternative payment arrangement, such as an installment agreement or an offer in compromise. Those who believe the certification is wrong, or disagree with the amount, can call the numbers on the notice: 855-519-4965, or 267-941-1004 from abroad.

The IRS reverses a certification when the debt is fully satisfied or legally unenforceable, when it is no longer seriously delinquent, or when the certification was erroneous. It sends a Notice CP508R and notifies the State Department within 30 days of the debt being resolved. Partial payments or the expiration of the collection period that lower the debt below the threshold do not lead to reversal. To qualify, the taxpayer must fully resolve all certified debt.

For those with travel plans within 45 days, or who live abroad, the IRS can expedite the process to 9 to 16 days. This requires an open passport application or renewal, proof of travel and a copy of the State Department letter dated within the last 90 days.

If the taxpayer has already filed this year’s return and expects a refund, the IRS will apply the refund to the debt. Taxpayers can also sue in the U.S. Tax Court or a U.S. District Court to challenge an erroneous certification, without first contacting the IRS. The court can order the IRS to notify the State Department, but it cannot release a lien or levy or award damages.

The delay is part of the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act, a law designed, among other things, to give the IRS more time to detect errors and prevent refund fraud. The rule applies to the entire refund, even if only part of the amount comes from one of these credits.

When will the IRS release refunds for EITC and ACTC filers?

The IRS says taxpayers who claim either credit can generally expect their refunds by March 2 if they meet three conditions:

• They file their tax return electronically.
• They choose direct deposit as their refund method.
• The IRS does not identify any problems with their return.

Some taxpayers may receive their money a few days earlier. The agency says its Where’s My Refund? tool should display an updated status by February 21 for most early EITC and ACTC filers.

These dates are not a guarantee for every taxpayer. Processing problems, requests for additional information, weekends and bank holidays may affect when the money becomes available. Financial institutions may also need extra time to post a direct deposit.

Why does the IRS hold the entire tax refund?

The delay is required by the PATH Act. When a taxpayer claims the EITC or ACTC, the IRS must wait until mid-February to issue the refund. The restriction covers the full amount owed to the taxpayer, not only the credit that triggered the hold.

The measure gives the agency additional time to review returns and identify possible errors or fraudulent claims before sending the money.

The hold does not automatically mean that a taxpayer made a mistake or that the IRS has opened an investigation. However, if the agency needs more information to process a return, it may send a letter requesting documentation.

What are the EITC and ACTC tax credits?

The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is a federal tax benefit for workers and families with low or moderate earned income. The amount depends on factors such as income, filing status and the number of qualifying children. Eligible taxpayers may receive the credit as part of their refund.

The Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) is the refundable portion of the Child Tax Credit. It may allow eligible families to receive a refund when the credit exceeds the amount of federal income tax they owe, subject to the applicable rules.

Both credits can increase the amount a taxpayer receives from the IRS. However, claiming either one can trigger the mandatory refund delay.

How to track an IRS refund

Taxpayers can check their payment status through the IRS Where’s My Refund? online tool, their IRS Online Account or the IRS mobile app.

The agency updates its refund tools once a day, usually overnight, so checking several times a day will not provide new information.

If the IRS needs additional documents or detects an issue with the return, it will contact the taxpayer by mail. In that situation, the refund may take longer than the standard timeline.

The interruption will begin in mid-November 2026 as part of the agency’s annual system maintenance. According to the IRS, the service generally becomes available again in mid-January of the following year.

Taxpayers who do not have this security feature yet and plan to file their tax returns early in 2027 should request it before the temporary shutdown begins.

How the IRS six-digit PIN works

The IP PIN is a personal identification number that provides an additional layer of protection for taxpayers’ information. Its main purpose is to prevent someone else from filing a federal tax return using a taxpayer’s Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

The code is known only to the taxpayer and the IRS. When someone enrolled in the program files a tax return, they must enter the corresponding PIN so the agency can verify their identity.

This means that someone who obtains another person’s personal information cannot successfully submit an electronic tax return using those details without also having the correct code.

The service is free and is not limited to people who have already experienced fraud. Any taxpayer who can verify their identity can request an IP PIN as a preventive measure, even if they are not required to file a federal tax return.

When the tool will go offline and when it will return

The IRS confirmed that its IP PIN application will become unavailable for annual maintenance starting in mid-November 2026.

The interruption does not mean the agency is eliminating the program or that taxpayers will lose their protection. It is a temporary suspension that takes place every year to update the service.

According to the agency, the tool generally becomes available again in mid-January 2027. The IRS has not announced an exact date for the beginning or end of the maintenance period.

The code is valid for one calendar year, and a new one is generated each year. Therefore, taxpayers who are already enrolled in the program will also need to retrieve their new PIN once the service becomes available again.

How to get your IP PIN before the shutdown

The fastest way to obtain the code is through the official Get an IP PIN tool, available through an IRS Individual Online Account.

To complete the process, taxpayers must:

1. Sign in to their individual account on the official IRS website.
2. Verify their identity if they have not already completed this step.
3. Open the Profile section and select the IP PIN option.
4. Obtain their personal six-digit code.

People who cannot verify their identity online also have other options. The IRS allows taxpayers to request a PIN through Form 15227, provided they meet the eligibility requirements, or schedule an in-person appointment at a Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC).

However, these alternatives may take longer than online enrollment. Taxpayers who need the code should therefore avoid waiting until the annual maintenance period begins.

The IRS warns that it will never ask for your PIN by phone or email

Once obtained, the IP PIN must be kept private. The IRS recommends sharing it only with a trusted tax professional when it is time to prepare and submit a tax return.

The agency also warns that it will never request this code through phone calls, text messages, emails, or social media.

If someone contacts a taxpayer and asks for the number to release a refund, verify their identity, or resolve an alleged tax problem, it could be a scam attempt.

Immigration status can become a decisive factor, even for those who already have a work history in the country.

The SSA sets different rules for foreigners seeking to collect benefits, and some situations can lead to payments being suspended, even if the person has met the contribution requirements.

Why doesn’t having a work permit guarantee access to Social Security benefits?

Having a work permit or a Social Security number (SSN) does not automatically guarantee the right to collect retirement benefits, since to qualify for this benefit, workers must meet the eligibility requirements set by the agency, including earning 40 work credits, which are earned through work and payment of the required taxes. The SSA also sets specific requirements for certain foreign workers, depending on when and under what conditions they obtained their Social Security number.

The SSA says foreigners who receive benefits while remaining in the U.S. must prove legal presence during the relevant month. In other words, an immigrant may have worked for years, making contributions and reaching 40 credits, but could have trouble receiving the money if their immigration status no longer meets the required conditions.

The agency acknowledges that certain foreigners authorized to work may qualify for these benefits, but work authorization alone does not guarantee payment because the eligibility rules and legal-presence requirements that apply in each case must also be met.

What happens to contributions and retirement benefits if an immigrant loses legal status?

Losing immigration status does not mean the work credits accumulated disappear automatically, since the SSA keeps earnings records and uses those credits to determine whether a person qualifies to receive retirement benefits. However, keeping those contributions does not mean payment is guaranteed because if the worker remains in the United States and stops meeting the legal-presence requirements, they may be barred from receiving payments for the months in which they do not meet that requirement. This means that losing legal presence in the country does not erase the work credits an immigrant accumulated during years of work, but it can prevent them from receiving retirement payments until they meet the immigration conditions required by the SSA.

On the other hand, the SSA says that certain deported or removed immigrants under specific provisions of immigration law may not collect retirement or disability benefits. The suspension begins the month after the agency receives the corresponding notice from federal authorities and can remain in place until the person is again admitted as a lawful permanent resident in the United States.

Can immigrants collect their U.S. retirement benefits if they return to their home country?

Immigrants who leave the U.S. after working and earning credits may keep the right to apply for retirement benefits, but receiving payments from abroad is subject to additional rules. The SSA says that, as a general rule, non-US citizens stop receiving benefits after being outside the country for six consecutive calendar months.

For that period, the agency starts counting the absence once the person has been outside the country for 30 consecutive days, and, if no exception applies, payments are suspended starting in the seventh month.

Carly Miller and her partner Guy decided to make it real and left their lives in NYC. But the experience turned out very differently than they expected.

Leaving New York to live on a sailboat

In 2024 the couple returned from a month in London to their one-bedroom apartment in the East Village when Miller had an idea that would change their lives: “We should live on a boat,” she wrote in an essay for Business Insider.

Guy was a lifelong sailor, so his knowledge was crucial for living on the sea. And his startup made it possible to buy the boat. A month later, they moved onto a 38-foot sailboat with their dog

Their goal was to save money and, eventually, cross the Pacific Ocean. But it didn’t take long for Miller to realize that “boat life was anything but the romanticized dream I had envisioned.”

The main problems the couple had living their whole life on a sailboat

The man who sold them the boat joked that “boat” stood for “Bust Out Another Thousand.” He wasn’t far off. At first they spent $1,000 on an alternator and two months trying to fix a broken toilet.

When the autopilot failed, they couldn’t afford the $3,000 replacement, so one of them always had to stay at the wheel. On top of that, Marina fees could get up to $100 a night.

“What wore me down was the endless work and expense of keeping that space functioning,” she wrote.

The dangers they faced living on the sea

Besides the expenses, life at sea was not as peaceful as she had imagined. The couple took turns waking up every hour to check the anchor. Also, bad weather sometimes kept them stuck on the boat for days. “I was always ‘on’ at sea,” she wrote.

After about a year at sea, Miller was burned out. Instead of heading to the Pacific, they sailed the boat back to New York City. “For the first time in my life, I wanted routine and stability,” she wrote.

They still love sailing, just not owning a boat. “For now, I’m perfectly happy to have a home on land again.”

Who can renew a passport with Form DS-82

To use this option, the applicant must meet the following conditions:

• Have a previous passport they can submit.
• Have received it less than 15 years ago.
• Have obtained it when they were 16 or older.
• Have a document that was valid for 10 years.
• Not have reported it lost or stolen.
• Submit it in good condition, without major damage.
• Keep the same legal name or provide official documentation of the name change.

Those who do not meet these conditions must apply for a new passport in person using Form DS-11.

Besides Form DS-82, what other documents do you need to submit?

The first step is to go to the State Department’s official website and complete Form DS-82. It can also be downloaded as a PDF and filled out by hand. Then you must print it on one side only, sign it and gather:

• The completed DS-82 form.
• The previous U.S. passport.
• A photo that meets the official requirements. It must be stapled to the form with four staples near the outer corners. It must not be bent.
• A personal check or money order made out to the Department of State.
• A certified copy of the name-change document, if applicable.

The new passport is mailed back with tracking. The old document and original supporting documents are returned separately, a process that can take up to four weeks after the new passport is received.

How much it costs

The official fees to renew using DS-82 are:

• Passport book $130
• Passport card $30
• Passport book and card $160

Those who need to speed up the process can add US$60 for expedited service, which is estimated to take two to three weeks. They can also pay an additional US$26.87 to have the passport delivered one to three days after it is issued.

Payment must be made by check or money order. Cash is not accepted.

Where to send Form DS-82

The address depends on the state of residence:

• California, Florida, Illinois, Minnesota, New York and Texas: National Passport Processing Center, Post Office Box 640155, Irving, TX 75064-0155.
• All other states: National Passport Processing Center, Post Office Box 90155, Philadelphia, PA 19190-0155.

The package must be sent through the U.S. Postal Service (USPS).

Although those who meet the 40 required credits can claim benefits at 62, the amount changes significantly between claiming at that age and doing so at any time up to age 70, making it essential to use full retirement age as the reference point for the calculation.

What is the full retirement age, and why does it matter in determining benefit amounts

Full retirement age is a specific point determined by a person’s year of birth and used to calculate SSA benefits. Those who want to find theirs can do so by clicking here.

Applying before reaching full retirement age will reduce benefits by an average of 0.5% for each month benefits are received before full retirement age.

Waiting until full retirement age to apply will allow you to receive the payment you are entitled to, with no reductions and no increases.

By contrast, waiting until after that point to claim benefits increases the benefit amount, but the maximum is reached at age 70.

Every older adult who waits until 70 to apply will get a higher retirement payment

“We calculate your payment based on your lifetime earnings. The amount will be higher the longer you wait to apply, up to age 70,” the agency says, with 70 being the point at which each person can receive the highest retirement payment.

To calculate the percentage that applies in each case, you can use the table data or the SSA online calculator tool to get the estimated benefit that would apply in each case.

Democrats won majorities in both the House and the Senate in Tuesday’s election. Republican strategists privately compare the scale of the losses to the party’s 2008 collapse and expect the damage to take years to repair.

Rep. Thomas Massie, a Kentucky Republican and frequent Trump critic, said he will force the vote when Congress returns. Several GOP sources told CNN they expect the House to approve it, even before Democrats take over in January.

Why do Donald Trump and JD Vance say the Iran war cost Republicans Congress?

Trump acknowledged the war played a part in a phone interview with Fox News on Tuesday night. He pointed to the jump in gas prices since the fighting began and said voters weren’t willing to absorb that short-term cost.

“People agree with what I am doing on Iran but they probably weren’t willing to do the short-term consequence of paying more for gasoline,” he said. “I understand that; I don’t agree with that.”

Vance was blunter. “The reason we lost is the war,” he wrote in a lengthy social media post Wednesday, daring anyone who disagreed to argue openly that giving up the Senate for six years was worth it. Trump later called the post “largely true.”

Much of the anger inside the party has landed on Hegseth. Several Republicans say he promised a quick, easy win and kept pushing to escalate even as the bombing failed to bring Iran closer to surrender. They also argue the war worsened voters’ cost-of-living squeeze.

Still, Trump hasn’t second-guessed the decision to go to war, and he told reporters Wednesday he would make the same call again. Republican strategists also concede privately that the party’s problems went well beyond the conflict.

Could Pete Hegseth be impeached over the Iran war?

Yes, and the vote could come quickly. Massie introduced eight articles of impeachment, or formal charges, against Hegseth on Sept. 16. They cover several issues, including his handling of the war. The House adjourned for the midterms without voting on them.

Impeachment by the House takes a simple majority, but it doesn’t remove anyone from office. It sends the case to the Senate, where 67 senators, two-thirds of the chamber, must vote to convict and remove.

That makes removal unlikely anytime soon. Republicans hold the Senate until the new Congress is sworn in in January, and a lame-duck session, the stretch before the new members arrive, rarely produces convictions.

Massie said on X that he would move ahead unless Hegseth resigns. He also urged Trump to replace him now: “He should do it while he can still get the replacements confirmed in the Senate.”

Will Donald Trump fire Pete Hegseth as Pentagon chief?

Not for now. In a phone interview with ABC News, Trump said he has “every intention” of keeping Hegseth, while admitting allies are urging a change: “I get these calls, you know, about him. I don’t understand why.”

On Thursday, he told reporters at the White House that Hegseth “has done a fantastic job.”

Hegseth, a former Fox News host, answered in a video posted to X that same day. He dismissed the “sham articles of impeachment” and compared the effort to Trump’s two impeachments. “They attack us because we are effective,” he said. “We will not back down.”

At the War Department: We Stand. We Fight. We Defend the Republic. https://t.co/Kkr0DazmCE

— Secretary of War Pete Hegseth (@SecWar) November 5, 2026

Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said Hegseth is “100% committed” to serving through the end of Trump’s term. Still, Trump’s allies widely expect some changes in the administration, and some in his circle see Hegseth as the obvious figure to absorb the blame.

According to the rules, the end-of-year bonus must be paid by Dec. 20, 2026, and equals at least 15 days of wages for those who worked all year.

Those who worked less time are also entitled to receive a proportional share.

How much end-of-year bonus money is owed in 2026?

Article 87 of the LFT establishes that workers must receive an annual end-of-year bonus equivalent to 15 days of wages, at minimum. However, some companies may pay more, depending on their labor terms or contracts.

To calculate the amount owed, you first need to know the daily wage. For those who receive a fixed monthly salary, divide the salary by 30, then multiply it by the number of end-of-year bonus days owed.

For example, a person who earns $12,000 a month and worked all year has a daily wage of $400. Multiply that by 15 days, and the result is a minimum end-of-year bonus of $6,000.

How do you calculate the end-of-year bonus if you worked less than a year?

The LFT also recognizes the right to a proportional payment, even when the employment relationship ended before December. To calculate it, you can use the following formula:

• Daily wage: monthly salary divided by 30.
• Annual end-of-year bonus: daily wage multiplied by 15 days.
• Proportional end-of-year bonus: annual end-of-year bonus divided by 365 and multiplied by the days worked during the year.

In the case of variable pay, the Federal Labor Defense Attorney’s Office (PROFEDET) says the average daily income earned during the last 30 days actually worked should be used.

For salespeople, sales agents, and similar workers, the average income from the past year or the period worked is used.

If the employer does not pay it, pays it in full, or misses the legal deadline, workers can go to PROFEDET for free advice. The deadline to claim this benefit is one year.

The documents the SSA requires to replace a Social Security card

To replace the card, what the SSA generally needs is one document proving the applicant’s identity. A U.S. driver’s license, a state ID or a U.S. passport will work. The condition is that it must be current, not expired, and show the legal name, date of birth or age, and a recent photo. In most cases, that is enough.

There is no need to present the old card or remember the number from memory to request a replacement; what is verified is the person’s identity.

When additional documents are required

There are situations in which the SSA asks for more. If it is a first card, or if the person was born outside the United States, proof of citizenship may also be required (such as a U.S. birth certificate or passport). And for noncitizens, the documents are different: They must prove their immigration status and, when applicable, work authorization, so the process is usually handled in person.

The SSA requires original documents or certified copies from the agency that issued them. It does not accept photocopies or notarized copies.

The detail few people know: There is a limit

You cannot request a replacement card unlimited times: The SSA allows up to 3 replacements per year and 10 in a lifetime. After those limits, no more are issued, in principle. There are exceptions that do not count toward that limit, such as legal name changes (through marriage or divorce) or certain changes in immigration status that require the card to be updated. But for ordinary losses, it is best not to request one casually and to take good care of the document.

The measure, which took effect on October 1, 2026, also covers applicants for TD visas, which are used for eligible dependents of TN visa holders.

This is what TN and TD visa applicants must do

For security reasons, all applicants for TN and TD nonimmigrant visas must adjust the privacy settings on all their social media profiles to “public” or “open.” This allows consular officials to review their online presence as part of the visa screening process.

The requirement applies to eligible Canadian and Mexican professionals seeking TN visas under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Their spouses and children may qualify for TD dependent visas.

Why is the State Department expanding its screening

The Department of State said it uses all available sources of information during visa screening to identify applicants who may be inadmissible to the United States, including those who could pose a threat to national security or public safety.

Officials also assess whether applicants meet the requirements for the visa they are seeking and intend to comply with the conditions of their admission. The expansion adds TN and TD applicants to a screening process that already covers several other nonimmigrant visa categories, including student, exchange visitor, and temporary worker visas.

The agency emphasized that a US visa is a privilege granted at the government’s discretion, not an entitlement.

The announcement expands the application of vetting that already applies to the following visa categories:

• Diplomatic and Official Visas: A-3, C-3 (if a domestic worker), G-5.
• Students: F-1, M-1, F-2, M-2.
• Temporary Workers and Trainees: H-1B, H-3, H-4 dependents of H-1 B and H-3.
• Exchange Visitors: J-1, J-2.
• Fiancé and Dependents: K-1, K-2, K-3.
• International Cultural Exchange Participants: Q
• Religious Occupations: R-1, R-2.
• Witnesses, Informants, and Victims: S, T, U.

That tradition has taken on a new form on social media, where the practice of tucking a bay leaf between a mobile phone and its case has become popular.

The viral practice stems from a popular belief that this plant has the symbolic power to attract financial opportunities, support personal relationships, and protect against bad energy.

What is keeping a bay leaf in your phone case for?

In ancient Greece and Rome, bay laurel was a symbol of recognition and victory. Its leaves were used in the crowns that set apart athletes, poets, and other prominent figures. Over time, that association carried over into different folk traditions that link the plant with prosperity and protection.

According to practitioners of Feng Shui and other spiritual traditions, bay leaves are used in prosperity rituals because they are seen as a symbol of success, abundance and protection

Among the meanings attributed to this custom, three stand out:

• Financial prosperity: It is believed to help bring job opportunities and improve one’s relationship with money.
• Personal protection: Some traditions hold that bay laurel helps ward off bad energy and envy.
• Clarity and communication: It is symbolically linked to decision-making and personal relationships.

How to properly place a bay leaf in your phone case

For those who want to follow this tradition, the process is simple and requires no additional products. The recommendation is to use a completely dry bay leaf, clean and in good condition, since moisture could damage it and leave residue on the device.

The steps to follow are:

1. Select a dry leaf: Choose one that is intact and shows no signs of moisture.
2. Remove the phone case: Clean the inside and check that no dust has built up.
3. Place the leaf: Position it on the back of the phone, without covering the cameras, ports, or other components.
4. Put the case back on: Make sure it fits properly and that the leaf does not put pressure on the device.
5. Check its condition: Remove it when it breaks, deteriorates, or starts shedding pieces.

Some people also write a word tied to their goals, such as “work,” “health,” or “prosperity,” before storing the leaf.

This is especially the case for those who retired before full retirement age of 67. Earnings limits are updated every year because of the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA).

What happens, according to the SSA, when someone receives Social Security retirement benefits and keeps working?

The SSA reduces the benefits of people who keep working if they exceed the annual earnings limit set for people who have not yet reached full retirement age.

On the other hand, the month full retirement age is reached, benefits can be received with no earnings limit.

There are two criteria for reducing benefits:

• If the person does not reach full retirement age during the entire year, $1 is deducted from benefits for every $2 earned above the annual limit.
• If the person reaches full retirement age during the year, $1 in benefits is deducted for every $3 earned above the limit. However, in this case only income earned before the month full retirement age is reached counts.

Likewise, while the worker remains employed, even if they receive benefits, they will continue paying Social Security taxes on earnings, so their benefits can increase after the annual review of their record.

What are the SSA income limits?

During 2026 the following earnings limits apply:

• People under full retirement age for the entire year: $24,480.
• People who will reach retirement age during the year: $65,160.

After the Cost-of-Living Adjustment that will take effect in 2027, the amounts are as follows:

• People under full retirement age for the entire year: $25,560.
• People who will reach retirement age during the year: $67,920.

What does the SSA count as income, and what assets are left out of the calculation?

According to the SSA’s answer in the Frequently Asked Questions section, for benefit reductions, only wages earned from work or net earnings if the person is self-employed are considered. Bonuses, commissions and vacation pay are included.

Other income is not counted, including:

• Pensions.
• Annuities.
• Investment income.
• Interest.
• Veterans benefits.
• Other government or military benefits.

What happens to the retirement money cut for exceeding the earnings limit?

The money the SSA withholds for exceeding the annual earnings limit is not lost for good. When the beneficiary reaches full retirement age, the agency adjusts the monthly benefit amount to account for the months when payments were reduced or benefits were not paid because of work income.

This form is used to replace the Green Card and can be submitted to the agency online or by mail.

Permanent residents who have turned 14 must urgently file Form I-90

In the instructions for the form that USCIS provides, it is clear that registering and being fingerprinted are required within 30 days of turning 14.

This requirement is set out in the U.S. Code (8 U.S.C. 1302: Registration of aliens), which states: “Whenever any alien in the United States reaches the age of fourteen years, such alien shall, within thirty days, apply in person for registration and fingerprinting”.

Form I-90 is USCIS’s form for requesting a new Green Card and completing registration. Once it is submitted online or by mail, the agency will schedule an in-person appointment to complete the required biometrics.

How to file Form I-90

There are two ways to submit this form: online or by mail.

To file online, you must create or log in to a USCIS online account.

If you want to send it by mail, you can send it through the U.S. Postal Service:

• USCIS
• Attn: I-90
• P.O. Box 21262
• Phoenix, AZ 85036-1262

It can also be sent by FedEx, UPS, and DHL:

• USCIS
• Attn: I-90 (Box 21262)
• 2108 E. Elliot Rd.
• Tempe, AZ 85284-1806

Important information for those who must file this form

USCIS warns about the importance of making sure the form bears the following date: “01/20/25″, especially if you choose to mail it, since that is when errors are most likely to happen.

For this type of paper filing, it is also essential to check that all page numbers are clearly visible and that they are from the same edition.

“If any pages are missing from the form or the pages are from different editions, we may reject your request,” the agency says.

The government upgrades its most advanced stealth destroyer (DDG 1000)

The USS Zumwalt is the first ship of the destroyer class that bears its name, the most advanced and futuristic line in the U.S. Navy. It is not a new ship: It was commissioned in 2016. What is happening now is a deep modernization that changes part of its weapons systems. Its angular lines and low profile set it apart at a glance from any other warship.

Its size is impressive on its own. The Zumwalt is about 183 meters long, practically two football fields lined up end to end, and displaces around 14,500 tons. It is, in fact, one of the largest destroyers in the U.S. Navy, bulkier than traditional destroyers.

Why is it nearly invisible to radar?

Despite its enormous size, the Zumwalt was designed to be very hard to detect: its angular hull shape, known as a “tumblehome” design because it slopes inward, and its materials minimize the signal it sends back to radar. The result is that, on a radar screen, a 183-meter ship appears with a signature as small as that of a fishing boat. That ability to “hide in plain sight” is at the core of its stealth profile.

The key change: from giant guns to hypersonic missiles

The Zumwalt was originally designed with two enormous advanced guns for shore bombardment. But those guns became effectively unusable: the specialized ammunition they required was canceled because it was far too expensive, and the guns were left without viable shells. The solution was as radical as the ship itself: instead of those weapons, it was fitted with launchers for hypersonic missiles.

The new weapon is the Conventional Prompt Strike, a hypersonic missile capable of flying at more than five times the speed of sound (Mach 5), with long range and high maneuverability, making it extremely difficult to intercept.

Instead of the forward gun, the ship received four large launch tubes, with three missiles in each, for a total of up to 12 hypersonic missiles. With that, the Zumwalt is set to become the first U.S. warship to carry this type of weapon.

Where the modernization stands

The transformation is underway, but slower than expected. The main part of the work, the replacement of the forward gun with missile launchers, was completed in late 2024, when the ship was floated again.

However, the weapon integration has been delayed: according to an audit by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) released in 2026, the program is running about two years behind schedule, with costs topping $2 billion, and the hypersonic missile test firing was pushed to 2027.

Adding to that, a fire at the shipyard in 2026 during the work left some sailors injured. All of it is part of the long and complex process of adapting a ship to an entirely new weapon.

This date change creates a new three-day weekend: Saturday, November 14, Sunday, Nov. 15 and Monday, Nov. 16. It is the only holiday provided in Mexican law and applies to all workers in the country.

Why is the holiday moved to Monday, November 16?

Article 74 of the Federal Labor Law sets the third Monday in November as a mandatory day off in observance of the anniversary of the Mexican Revolution.

That way, the holiday always falls on a Monday, regardless of what day of the week Nov. 20 lands on.

This year, the month’s third Monday will be Nov. 16, according to the calendar of the Labor and Social Welfare Ministry (STPS). As a result, workers who normally work Monday through Friday will return to their jobs on Tuesday, Nov. 17.

What happens if you work on the holiday?

People who must work during the holiday are entitled to special pay.

Under Article 75 of the LFT, anyone who works on a mandatory day off must receive, in addition to the wage for that day, double pay for the services provided. As a result, the worker must be paid the equivalent of triple wages.

This provision is also backed by the Federal Labor Defense Office (PROFEDET).

It is worth noting that Friday, Nov. 20, is not an additional mandatory day off. Anyone who works that day must keep their regular schedule and receive normal pay, unless the company decides to grant the day off as an added benefit.

Therefore, employers are not legally required to grant that day off or pay extra for working it.

When is the next mandatory holiday in Mexico?

After the November break, the last mandatory holiday of 2026 will be Friday, Dec. 25, in observance of Christmas.

Because it falls on a Friday, it will create another long weekend for people who do not work Saturdays and Sundays.

For students in basic education, the SEP calendar also includes a third long weekend on Friday, Nov. 27, because of a new School Technical Council session.

Later on, winter break will begin on Dec. 21, and classes are scheduled to resume on Jan. 7, 2027.

The change involves millions of people who receive monthly benefits and will be applied automatically, with no need to fill out forms or take any additional steps.

The change is tied to a special date on the U.S. federal calendar. What is it?

Why the SSA moved the retirement payment up in November

The SSA changed the usual deposit date for a group of retirees in November 2026 because Wednesday, Nov. 11, is Veterans Day, a U.S. federal holiday when government offices are closed.

According to the holiday calendar published by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), the observance falls on Wednesday, Nov. 11. In this situation, the SSA follows a standard rule: when a scheduled payment falls on a federal holiday, the money is paid on the previous business day.

That is why the deposit for the second Wednesday of the month will be made on Tuesday, Nov. 10.

Which retirees will receive Social Security on Nov. 10

The beneficiaries who will be paid on Tuesday, Nov. 10, are those whose birth date falls between the 1st and 10th of any month, as long as they are included in the payment schedule based on date of birth. Typically, this group receives retirement benefits on the second Wednesday of each month, but in November the date is moved up because of the federal holiday.

The SSA uses this system for people who filed for benefits on or after May 1, 1997. The birth date determines the Wednesday assigned for payment, so the advance does not require filling out forms, submitting requests or contacting the agency because it is applied automatically.

How the retirement payment schedule looks in November

According to the official 2026 payment schedule published by the SSA, November dates are distributed as follows:

• Tuesday, Nov. 3: people who started receiving benefits before May 1997.
• Tuesday, Nov. 10: those born between the 1st and 10th.
• Wednesday, Nov. 18: those born between the 11th and 20th.
• Wednesday, Nov. 25: those born between the 21st and 31st.

The Nov. 10 advance does not change payment dates for the rest of beneficiaries. The SSA keeps the usual schedule for those assigned to the third and fourth Wednesday of the month, while people who have received benefits since before May 1997 keep their payment date on the 3rd.

According to the 96-hour extended forecast from the National Meteorological Service (SMN), the system will bring heavy to very heavy rain to different parts of Mexico and a drop in temperatures across the north, northeast, east, and center of the country.

The most intense conditions are expected Sunday, Nov. 8, when between 75 and 150 millimeters of rain could fall in eastern Nuevo Leon and northern Tamaulipas. The agency also forecasts lows of between -5 and 0 degrees in mountainous areas of Chihuahua and Durango during the early morning hours on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday.

Where are temperatures of -5 degrees and strong wind gusts expected?

The temperature drop will be felt mainly in the north and northeast, though it will also reach parts of the east and center. The SMN identifies the following conditions for the weekend:

• Temperatures from 23 to 32 °F (-5 to 0 °C): mountainous areas of Chihuahua and Durango during the early morning hours of Saturday, Nov. 7, Sunday, Nov. 8 and Monday, Nov. 9.
• Temperatures from 32 to 41 °F (0 to 5 °C): mountainous areas of Baja California, Sonora, Coahuila, Nuevo Leon, Zacatecas, Mexico state, Hidalgo, Tlaxcala, Puebla, Veracruz and Oaxaca, depending on the day.
• Wind gusts of 31 to 43 mph (50 to 70 km/h): on Saturday, in the Gulf of California, Baja California, and the Isthmus and Gulf of Tehuantepec; on Sunday, on the coasts of Tamaulipas and northern Veracruz, as well as the Isthmus and Gulf of Tehuantepec.
• Waves of 10 to 13 feet (3 to 4 meters): the coasts of Tamaulipas and Veracruz on Sunday.

The agency warns that the heavy, very heavy and intense rain could be accompanied by lightning, wind gusts and hail. It could also cause rivers and streams to overflow, landslides, puddling and flooding in low-lying areas.

Which states will see intense rain from Cold Front 4?

On Friday, Nov. 6, the frontal system will move across northeastern and eastern Mexico. For that day, the SMN forecasts heavy rain with isolated very heavy downpours of 50 to 75 millimeters in southern Tamaulipas, eastern San Luis Potosi, northern and northeastern Hidalgo, northern Puebla, and northern Veracruz.

On Saturday, Nov. 7, rain of that intensity will extend to Nuevo Leon, the coast, and the south of Tamaulipas and northern Veracruz.

For Sunday, Nov. 8, the forecast calls for very heavy rain with isolated intense downpours in eastern Nuevo Leon and northern Tamaulipas. The front will remain stationary over eastern Mexico and interact with troughs in the middle and upper levels of the atmosphere.

Pay varies by position and responsibilities, with starting pay of $35 an hour for electricians with a journeyman license. One of the most attractive openings, however, is aimed at people who do not yet have experience and want training in the industry.

Through its official jobs page, the company detailed the open positions, the pay offered and how to apply.

What Jobs Wattsmith Electric Offers and How Much They Pay Per Hour

According to the information posted in Wattsmith Electric’s jobs section, the company has four full-time openings in San Antonio. The opportunities cover different experience levels and responsibilities, from specialized electrical work to administrative tasks.

These are the positions and the posted pay:

• Journeyman electrician: from $35 an hour.
• Wireman electrician: $20 to $26 an hour.
• Electrician apprentice: $13 an hour.
• Dispatcher and customer service: $9 to $15 an hour.

What Are the Requirements to Apply?

One of the standout features of the posting is that Wattsmith Electric allows applicants to start as apprentices with no prior experience. On its official page, it says it offers paid training and guidance from experienced electricians so new workers can learn the trade.

The company also helps apprentices register with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR), the state agency that oversees the industry. That way, people starting from scratch can gain skills and work toward higher-responsibility positions.

For experienced electricians, the requirements vary by category:

• Journeyman: must have the corresponding Texas license.
• Wireman: performs electrical installation work and hands-on tasks on projects.
• Apprentice: can start with no experience and receive on-the-job training.

The company also asks applicants to list any licenses and certifications they have, such as OSHA 10 and NFPA 70E.

How to Apply for Wattsmith Electric Jobs

Interested applicants can submit their application through the form available on the company’s official website. There, they must select the job they want and fill out personal information, availability, work experience, and professional background, depending on the case.

Applicants may want to have the following information ready before starting the application:

• TDLR license number and expiration date, if applicable.
• Dates and names of the last three employers.
• The earliest date they could start work.
• Professional certifications, such as OSHA 10 or NFPA 70E.

The company says a person reviews each application and that candidates who fit the profile receive a response within two business days. It also allows phone inquiries at (210) 446-5446.

This home method stands out for being inexpensive and practical. However, it is important to use it with caution, since too much moisture can damage the materials and make it harder to dry.

What is vinegar on a mattress good for?

The mattress often collects odors, dust and dirt that are not always removed with basic cleaning. That is where vinegar comes in, a key ally that helps improve bedroom hygiene, extends the mattress’s useful life and helps create a deeper, healthier night’s sleep.

One of the main reasons to use vinegar on this area is its ability to disinfect and neutralize odors. Although it does not remove stains completely, vinegar loosens dirt and acts as a natural neutralizer, ideal for closed-off or poorly ventilated spaces.

Vinegar contains acetic acid, a compound that gives it useful properties for certain cleaning tasks. It can help remove some residue and reduce certain odors.

In addition, this method is used as a repellent for small insects. The sharp smell of white vinegar helps drive away pests that often hide in less visible areas.

That is why spraying vinegar on the mattress can be a practical alternative to more aggressive chemical products.

In fact, the Tuft & Needle mattress cleaning guide recommends using vinegar, baking soda or mild detergents to treat certain spills and odors.

How to apply it correctly

To take advantage of its benefits, simply mix white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Then spray the mixture on the mattress, let it sit for at least an hour, vacuum or scrub the stains and let it dry.

Ideally, apply the mixture to both sides of the mattress and wait until it is completely dry before putting it back on the bed.

How often should you clean the mattress?

Keeping the mattress clean is key to preventing stains, mites, moisture and premature wear. Although for a long time people believed it should not be touched, the reality is that it requires regular care.

With simple habits, such as airing it out every day for 15 to 20 minutes and changing the sheets once a week, it is possible to extend its life, improve bedroom hygiene and sleep much better.

As for cleaning frequency, it is recommended to vacuum the mattress every 7 to 15 days to remove dust and particles that encourage mites. It is also important to wash the mattress protector every 15 days or once a month, since it acts as the first barrier against dirt.

The Mayo Clinic recommends washing sheets weekly, using protective covers for the mattress and pillows, and keeping indoor relative humidity below 50% to help reduce dust mites. These measures help maintain a more hygienic sleeping environment.

This process requires completing Form DS-11 without signing it beforehand and submitting documents that prove the applicant’s identity and citizenship.

How should Form DS-11 be submitted so it is not rejected?

The DS-11 form must be completed before going to an agency or office authorized to process a U.S. passport. However, it must not be signed beforehand, since the applicant must sign it in person in front of the agent receiving the documents.

If it is signed before the appointment, the form could be rejected, and the applicant would have to complete that step again before the authorized agent, since the previous form becomes invalid.

Who must submit Form DS-11 to get a passport?

The State Department says this form must be used by:

• Adults over 18 applying for a U.S. passport for the first time.
• People whose passports were lost, stolen, or damaged.
• Those who have a passport issued more than 15 years ago.
• Adults whose previous passport was issued when they were still under 16.

The application must be submitted in person at an office authorized to accept passport applications.

What other documents must be submitted with Form DS-11?

The application must include:

• Proof of U.S. citizenship: birth certificate, valid, undamaged U.S. passport, certificate of naturalization or citizenship, or consular report of birth abroad.
• Photo ID: a valid driver’s license or another physical ID accepted by the State Department.
• Photocopies: one copy of the proof of citizenship and one of the front and back of the ID.
• Passport photo: an image that meets the official size and quality requirements.

Documents must be originals, and photocopies must be made on single-sided 8.5-by-11-inch paper.

How much does it cost to apply?

The cost depends on the type of passport requested:

• Passport book: $130 application fee + $35 acceptance fee. Total: $165.
• Passport card: $30 application fee + $35 acceptance fee. Total: $65.
• Book and card: $160 application fee + $35 acceptance fee. Total: $195.

The application fee must be paid by check or money order payable to the State Department. The acceptance fee is paid directly at the office where the documents are submitted.

The idea is to place a paper towel soaked in undiluted vinegar over the faucets.

This method is intended to help loosen the mineral deposits left by hard water on the fixtures, without having to use a more elaborate solution.

What Is the Purpose of Putting Vinegar-Soaked Paper on Faucets?

According to Utah State University Extension, vinegar can help loosen mineral deposits that build up on sink faucets. The recommendation is to take advantage of the product’s contact with the areas where these residues collect.

In its Quick Kitchen Tips guide, the institution includes this procedure among its cleaning tips. The instruction is specific: soak a paper towel in undiluted vinegar and place it over the faucet handles.

How Do You Apply This Cleaning Method at Home?

To put this recommendation into practice, the procedure involves the following steps:

• Soak a paper towel: use undiluted vinegar.
• Place it on the faucet: cover the areas where the mineral deposits are located.
• Apply it to the sink handles: the goal is to help loosen the residue left behind by hard water.

Utah State University Extension’s guide presents this as a recommendation for treating mineral deposits on sink faucets. Although it is a simple procedure, the institution’s specific guidance is limited to loosening these residues.

The method involves letting the product sit overnight so the grime loosens on its own. A Spain-based content creator, @marianordichouse, shared the trick on her Instagram account. She said she used to rely on pumice stone to scrape off the limescale, but this method made cleaning much easier.

The explanation lies in the acidity of vinegar, which helps dissolve mineral calcium deposits. Concentrated cleaning vinegar has a higher acid content than cooking vinegar, so it can be more effective for this kind of buildup.

How to use concentrated cleaning vinegar to remove limescale from the toilet rim, step by step

The trick takes just a few steps:

1. Line the toilet rim, underneath the seat, with paper towels.
2. Soak the paper well with concentrated cleaning vinegar.
3. Let it sit overnight.
4. Remove the paper in the morning and check the area.

For the bottom of the bowl, the content creator suggests another mix: vinegar and baking soda. This combination creates a fizzing reaction and helps loosen dirt. After that, all that is needed is a quick scrub with the toilet brush.

Fuente: Freepik

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Why concentrated cleaning vinegar works

The reason this trick works is the composition of concentrated cleaning vinegar. According to Powervin, a company that makes this type of product, it is formulated with a higher percentage of acetic acid than food-grade vinegar. One with 8% contains about 60% more acetic acid per liter than table vinegar at 5%.

It also contains no added sugars, colorings or fragrances, so it does not stain or leave a film on surfaces. That higher concentration also makes it possible to dilute it depending on the task.

Three other uses for cleaning vinegar at home

The same trick can be used in other areas of the home, such as:

• Windows and shower screens: Spray vinegar mixed in equal parts with hot water and dry with paper towels, which leave no streaks or lint.
• Washing machine: Add one cup of vinegar and one cup of baking soda and run a short cycle with hot water. Repeat every one or two months to prevent brown stains on clothes.
• Dishwasher: Clean the door and corners with active oxygen, where the most grease builds up, then place a glass of vinegar on the top rack and run a short cycle.

Precautions when cleaning with concentrated vinegar

The same acidity that dissolves limescale also attacks some materials. Powervin warns that marble, granite, terrazzo and any natural stone will be irreversibly dulled, and that it also should not be used on unfinished wood. And it should never be mixed with bleach or ammonia.

Another important point is that vinegar cleans, but it does not disinfect. Disinfection is done with approved products such as biocides, so if a surface requires it, that step should be done afterward and separately.

Mercadona sells concentrated cleaning vinegar for 0.90 euros a liter

For those who want to try the trick, Mercadona offers the concentrated Bosque Verde Cleaning Vinegar on its website, in a 1-liter bottle. Its price is 0.90 euros per unit.

According to Iowa State University, baking soda combined with distilled water can work as a cleaning agent to remove dirt, detergent, and starch buildup that accumulates with use.

The university warns that these residues can cause the iron to stick to fabrics, not glide properly, or leave dark marks on clothing.

What is mixing and applying baking soda and water to the bottom of an iron for?

The mixture is used to clean the iron’s soleplate, the surface that comes into contact with clothing during ironing.

With use, this part of the appliance can collect dust, lint, detergent residue, starch, and product buildup that clings to fabrics.

Iowa State University explains that baking soda acts as a cleaning agent that helps remove built-up dirt. To make the paste, it is recommended to use a ratio of about two parts baking soda to one part distilled water.

Before applying any product, the university advises checking the manufacturer’s manual, since irons may have bases made of stainless steel, ceramic, titanium or nonstick materials that require specific care.

How do you clean the bottom of an iron?

According to recommendations from Iowa State University, the process should be done with the iron cool and unplugged.

To clean the surface, follow these steps:

1. Mix two tablespoons of baking soda with one tablespoon of distilled water until a paste forms.
2. Apply the mixture to the bottom of the iron with an old toothbrush.
3. Gently rub to remove built-up residue, without using anything that could scratch the surface.
4. Wipe away the paste and dirt with a microfiber cloth until the base is clean.
5. Check that the steam holes are also free of residue.

Once cleaning is finished, the university recommends filling the tank with water, heating the iron, and running it over a towel or old cloth. During this process, the spray button should be pressed several times to make sure the soleplate and passages are clean before ironing clothes again.

The university also notes that how often you clean it depends on how much the appliance is used. If the iron no longer glides properly, has trouble releasing steam, or drips dark water, it may need cleaning.

What does spraying vinegar where ants pass does

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

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

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

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

Step by step: how to make the spray

The mix is very simple:

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

Why it’s recommended

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

The break will coincide with Thanksgiving and will give students four straight days away from the classroom, including the weekend that surrounds the holiday.

What day classes end in public schools

The school break will begin on Thursday, Nov. 26, “Thanksgiving; Board-approved holiday for students and employees”, and will run through Friday, Nov. 27, 2026, “Recess Day for students and employees”. That means four straight days without classes, including the weekend of Nov. 28 and 29.

Nov. 23, 24 and 25 will be recess days for employees with 10- and 11.5-month schedules, while Nov. 26 and 27 are listed as days without activity for students and employees.

When students will return to class

Students must return to the classroom on Monday, Nov. 30, according to the academic calendar.

The schedule applies to elementary and secondary schools run by the Miami-Dade district and is part of the 180-school-day calendar planned for the 2026-2027 school year.

When winter break starts

According to the same official calendar, winter break for students will begin on Dec. 21, 2026 and run through Jan. 1, 2027.

In that regard, it is established that month after month, those born between the 21st and the 31st are the last to be paid, so in November they will receive their payment on Wednesday, Nov. 25.

Those born between the 21st and 31st of the month will receive their SSA benefits on November 25

According to the federal agency, all beneficiaries born between the 21st and 31st of any month who began receiving benefits after April 30, 1997, and are not also receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) must receive their payment on the fourth Wednesday of the month, which falls on Nov. 25.

People born between these dates who have received benefits since before May 1997 already received their SSA retirement or pension payment last Tuesday, Nov. 3, because the agency says those payments are always made on the 3rd of the month. The same applies if they also receive SSI.

When the rest of the beneficiaries get paid in November 2026

Those born between the 1st and the 10th will get an extraordinary advance. Although they normally get paid on the second Wednesday of the month, because Veterans Day is observed, the payment was moved up to Tuesday, Nov. 10.

Those with birthdays between the 11th and the 20th will get their money on the third Wednesday, which is Nov. 18.

Finally, SSI payments are made on the first of each month, although if that date falls on a holiday, Saturday or Sunday, they are moved up, as happened this month, when beneficiaries received their money on Oct. 30.

What should I do if I do not receive my payment on the expected date?

In these situations, authorities say to wait three additional days after the date the benefit should have been received and, if there is still no update, contact Social Security through the official channels.

The research involved scientists from the University of Bern in Switzerland, the Max Planck Institute of Geoanthropology in Germany, and the Russian Academy of Sciences, among others. The findings were published in the journal Science.

Determining how cannabis was used in prehistoric times through archaeological evidence is difficult. This is because parts of the plant, such as its flowers, leaves, and resins, are perishable and rarely survive over time.

Gino Caspari and his team now present new evidence of cannabis use at the Tunnug 1 archaeological site, one of the oldest and most significant monumental burial mounds in the Uyuk Valley of southern Siberia.

The princely tomb belonged to high-ranking members of Scythian society, a culture from the Eurasian steppe. Researchers recovered approximately 1,400 whole and partial cannabis seeds associated with the burials.

Radiocarbon dating showed that the seeds were deposited in the early eighth century BC, approximately 2,800 years ago, around the time the burial site was built.

Their small size and physical characteristics suggest that they came from wild plants or feral varieties.

The presence of cannabis seeds in a tomb does not, by itself, prove that the plant was used for its psychoactive effects. However, this was supported by the analysis of hair found in the central burial chamber. Researchers detected clear traces consistent with cannabinol (CBN) in several of the samples examined, according to a statement from the University of Bern.

CBN is produced, among other ways, through the oxidation of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive compound in cannabis. Researchers used several techniques to analyze the hair samples, including high-resolution mass spectrometry.

According to the researchers, the hair analyses indicate cannabis consumption. However, they cannot reliably determine how much was consumed or how the active compounds entered the body, whether through inhalation or ingestion, for example.

“The molecular traces in the hair and the cannabis seeds come from the same tomb and suggest that cannabis was used for its psychoactive properties,” Caspari explained.

The findings represent the oldest directly dated archaeological evidence to date of cannabis use for its psychoactive properties in cultural and ceremonial practices.

“In this study, we present the oldest direct evidence of cannabis consumption: offerings of plant parts and chemical compounds in ancient human hair,” the authors write in their paper.

The results suggest that the plant was used for its psychoactive effects across Eurasia. “We demonstrate that the practice of cannabis consumption dates back at least 2,800 years,” the researchers emphasize.

Early cannabis use was not simply a “pharmacological curiosity,” they add. Instead, it offers insight into how ancient societies experimented with the psychoactive properties of the plant world and incorporated them into their rituals.

Caspari recalls that the tomb examined in the study contained numerous horse sacrifices and, most likely, human sacrifices as well.

In an earlier study, researchers discovered the remains of 18 horses that had once been arranged on top of the burial mound. Since then, several dozen more horse sacrifices and scattered human bones have come to light.

Source: EFE.

One important change is that part of the credit is now refundable. This means eligible taxpayers may receive up to $5,120 per child as a refund, even if they do not owe federal income taxes. However, the full $17,670 is not automatically paid to every family, and eligibility depends on the adoption, expenses and household income.

How much is the IRS Adoption Tax Credit in 2026?

For tax year 2026, the maximum Adoption Tax Credit is $17,670 per eligible child. The amount available generally depends on the qualified adoption expenses paid or incurred, subject to the applicable rules.

The credit is divided into two parts:

• Refundable portion: Up to $5,120 per qualifying child. This amount may be paid as part of a tax refund, even when the taxpayer has no federal income tax liability.
• Nonrefundable portion: The remaining eligible credit can reduce the federal income tax owed, but it cannot generate a refund by itself. Any unused amount may be carried forward for up to five years.

The refundable portion is particularly important for families who have little or no federal income tax liability. It allows them to receive a payment that would not be available through a nonrefundable credit alone.

Still, $5,120 is the maximum refundable amount, not a guaranteed payment. The final benefit depends on the taxpayer’s eligibility and the amount of credit they can claim.

Who qualifies for the $17,670 adoption credit?

To qualify, taxpayers must meet the IRS requirements for an eligible adoption and child. The child must be under 18 years old or physically or mentally incapable of caring for themselves.

Qualified adoption expenses may include:

• Adoption agency fees.
• Attorney fees and court costs.
• Travel expenses, including meals and lodging while away from home.
• Other expenses directly related to the legal adoption.
• Certain expenses paid before an eligible child is identified, such as home-study fees.

The credit applies to eligible domestic and international adoptions, including private and public foster-care adoptions. Special rules determine the tax year in which expenses can be claimed, depending on whether the adoption is domestic or international and whether it has been finalized.

There is also a specific rule for special-needs adoptions. If a state agency or an Indian tribal government determines that the child qualifies as having special needs under federal tax rules, the family may claim the maximum credit even if it did not pay qualified adoption expenses.

Income limits for the 2026 tax year

The Adoption Tax Credit is subject to income limits based on modified adjusted gross income (MAGI):

Taxpayers who are married generally must file a joint return to claim the credit, although the IRS provides exceptions for certain circumstances.

How to claim the IRS Adoption Tax Credit

Eligible taxpayers must complete Form 8839, Qualified Adoption Expenses, and attach it to their federal income tax return.

The form is used to calculate the adoption credit and report information about the eligible child. The IRS accepts a Social Security number, an Adoption Taxpayer Identification Number (ATIN) or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), as applicable.

Those claiming the refundable portion must also complete Schedule 3-A (Form 1040), as instructed by the IRS. It is important to keep adoption-related documentation and receipts in case the agency requests supporting information.

Families who receive adoption assistance from an employer may also qualify for an income exclusion of up to $17,670 in 2026 through a qualified employer program. However, the same expenses cannot be used both for the exclusion and for the adoption credit.

According to an announcement by State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli and State Police Superintendent Steven G. James, the defendants allegedly used three transportation companies based in Schenectady to bill Medicaid for services that were never provided or were falsely reported.

The investigation identified three alleged methods: billing for rides that never took place, presenting unauthorized group trips as multiple individual rides, and inflating mileage. Investigators also allege that the defendants paid kickbacks to passengers who helped with the scheme.

Who are the three family members charged in the Medicaid fraud case?

The defendants are Ismat Farhan, from Slingerlands, her brother Effat Rizwan, and his wife, Fouzia Rizwan, both from Schenectady.

According to the comptroller’s office, Farhan was charged with one count of grand larceny in the first degree. Effat Rizwan faces one count of grand larceny in the first degree and another of grand larceny in the second degree. Fouzia Rizwan was charged with one count of grand larceny in the first degree.

All three appeared in Schenectady City Court and were arraigned before Judge Teneka Frost. They are scheduled to return to court on December 7, 2026.

The three relatives were connected to USA Medical Transport Inc., NYS Med Transport Inc. and EZ Medical Transportation Inc. Farhan operated USA Medical Transport with her brother from a used car dealership. Effat Rizwan ran the other transportation businesses from the same location, including EZ Medical, which was owned by his wife.

How the alleged $4.7 million Medicaid scheme worked

The investigation began in December 2024, after the comptroller’s Division of Investigations received a complaint about USA Medical Transport. The office worked with the New York State Police Special Investigations Unit to examine the companies’ Medicaid claims.

A forensic review of claims covering January 1, 2020, through December 21, 2024, identified allegedly fraudulent billing across the three businesses.

The amounts attributed to each company were:

• USA Medical Transportation: more than $2.9 million in allegedly fraudulent invoices for group trips, plus $340,000 for rides that never occurred.
• NYS Medical Transport: more than $79,000 in allegedly fraudulent group rides and over $4,500 for trips that did not take place.
• EZ Medical Transportation: more than $1.1 million in allegedly fraudulent group-trip claims and $184,000 for rides that never happened.

Together, the claims amounted to more than $4.7 million in alleged losses to New York’s Medicaid program.

What Medicaid rules apply to medical transportation?

Medicaid allows eligible patients to use transportation services to attend legitimate medical appointments. Approved providers can then bill the program for the services they provide.

However, the rules impose specific limits on group transportation. Group rides require prior authorization, and providers can only bill for mileage once for a group. The alleged conduct involved claims that investigators say violated those requirements.

The case is part of a broader effort by the comptroller’s office to investigate fraud involving public funds. Over the previous 18 months, DiNapoli’s Medicaid fraud investigations had resulted in 61 arrests and more than $50 million in ordered recoveries, according to the agency.

According to the USCIS announcement, the changes reflect the inflation adjustment for fiscal year 2027. The new amounts have been in effect since Oct. 16, 2026.

Which four immigration fees went up

The changes do not apply to all immigration filings. The agency listed the following fees:

• Annual asylum fee: increased from $102 to $105. This is the annual charge for a pending asylum application, not the initial filing fee.
• Immigration parole fee tied to Form I-131: increased from $1,020 to $1,050.
• Certain initial work permits, through Form I-765: increased from $560 to $570.
• Application for Temporary Protected Status, through Form I-821: increased from $510 to $520.

The notice published in the Federal Register also distinguishes between fees for initial work permits and those for renewals or extensions.

Which applications USCIS will reject if the payment is incorrect

The warning applies to applications subject to these fees that are postmarked on or after Oct. 16, 2026; they must also include the updated amount for the benefit requested.

Applications that do not include the correct fee will be rejected.

The project was led by two friends who saw discarded materials as an alternative way to build. To do it, they gathered 16,000 bottles and used between 12 and 13 tons of nonrecyclable plastic, along with other natural materials they incorporated into the walls and structure.

The build took 10 months and resulted in Wawar, a home that combines traditional techniques with reclaimed materials. Its design stands out not only for the materials used, but also for the way it uses the properties of the earth to keep indoor conditions comfortable as temperatures change.

How two 23-year-old friends built a house with 16,000 bottles and 13 tons of plastic

Namita Kapale and Kalyani Bharmbe are two friends from Aurangabad, India, who decided to create a home with recycled materials after learning in 2021, during the COVID-19 pandemic, about a school project in Assam that used bottles filled with plastic to make seats. The idea sparked their interest and they began collecting materials from the streets and by going to garbage collectors, hotels and businesses.

They also gathered about 16,000 bottles to build the home: 10,000 were filled with multilayer plastic and the other 6,000 with soil, for a total of 13 tons of nonrecyclable plastic, plus mud and cow dung to coat the walls. The process, however, was not easy, as the first test walls collapsed two or three times because the materials could not withstand water.

How the house regulates its temperature without air conditioning or heating

One of the most striking features of the home is that it does not need air conditioning or heating because of the properties of mud buildings, which keep indoor conditions comfortable as outdoor temperatures change. So even though the walls include thousands of bottles and plastic waste, the home’s thermal performance is mainly tied to the use of earth as a building material, Namita explained in an interview with The Better India.

The friends took about 10 months to finish the house, with the help of 15 local workers, and spent about 70,000 rupees from their savings, in addition to financial support from their families. The home was named Wawar, which means field or open space, and was built on a plot of nearly 4,000 square feet. It has two partially open square rooms and a circular structure.

Its creators estimate it can last between 10 and 15 years if it receives regular maintenance with a mixture of soil and cow dung.

During her news conference Thursday, the president said it is “very likely” that immigration policies and operations by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) had some impact among Latino voters who had previously backed the Republican Party.

Sheinbaum said she did not have data to establish a direct link between immigration operations and the election result. However, she said it was reasonable to think the raids and cases of discrimination based on ethnicity or skin color may have influenced some voters’ decisions.

The Mexican president made the remarks after election results showed gains for the Democratic Party, which won control of both chambers of the U.S. Congress.

According to data from Mexico’s Foreign Affairs Ministry, 17 Mexicans have died in the United States during ICE operations or while in ICE custody since 2025.

The Latino vote shifted, and immigration policy was one of the factors

A UnidosUS survey found that 67% of Latino voters backed Democratic candidates for the House of Representatives. The study also showed that 17% of Hispanics who voted for Donald Trump in 2024 supported Democratic candidates this time.

However, immigration policy was not the main issue for this electorate. Cost of living and inflation were cited by 58% of respondents as their top concerns.

Meanwhile, 27% pointed to immigration policy and ICE actions as relevant factors.

The data show that Latino voters’ behavior was tied to several issues, including the economy and immigration policy.

Sheinbaum highlighted candidates of Mexican descent

The Mexican president had also reacted Wednesday to the election results and highlighted the victories of Democratic candidates of Mexican descent, among them Xavier Becerra and Gina Hinojosa.

Sheinbaum said the results reflected a change in the “feelings of the American people” and highlighted the performance of candidates linked to the Latino community.

Her remarks Thursday came in that context, although the president herself acknowledged that she has no data allowing her to directly attribute the shift in Latino voting to immigration raids or racism.

The UnidosUS survey cited by the president shows that economic issues carried more weight than immigration policy among Latino voters’ main concerns.

With information from EFE

According to a report from the Government Accountability Office (GAO), released in July, the first flight tests from one of the ships were pushed back to 2027.

Why is the U.S. delaying the modernization and installation of hypersonic missiles

The federal agency plans to add CPS missiles to three destroyers built in Maine: the USS Zumwalt, the USS Michael Monsoor, and the USS Lyndon B. Johnson. To do that, it needs to modify the ships’ structure and install vertical launch systems. But modernization of the first destroyer had already fallen behind, even though it was 94% complete in January 2026.

One of the main problems was the need for electrical and wiring work that had not been part of the original plan. The Navy added 230,000 work hours at an additional cost of $20 million.

In addition, the destroyers use specialized radar, combat, and computer networking systems that are expensive and difficult to maintain.

How much does each hypersonic missile cost

The weapon’s price also rose during the program’s development: in 2021, the Navy had projected a cost of about $50 million per round. However, GAO reported that, in April, the estimated price was between $63 million and $71 million per missile, with an average of about $67 million.

The total investment is also significant:

• The Navy expects to spend more than $41 billion over the life of the program.
• The Army plans to invest more than $10 billion in 48 missiles and related equipment.
• Both services will devote more than $50 billion to the development, testing, and deployment of this technology.

Each missile uses boost-glide technology: a rocket propels the round, then a glide body separates and continues toward the target. They can travel farther than most conventional projectiles and follow paths that are less predictable than ballistic missiles.

The GAO said the technology allows attacks on “high-value, heavily defended targets from long range” with a non-nuclear payload.

When will the first flight test take place?

The first flight tests from the destroyers were scheduled for 2025, but were pushed to 2027 because of funding problems and technical difficulties. The goal is to confirm that the system can work properly from a warship and move toward operational deployment.

That brings us to the famous English galleon Merchant Royal, also known as “El Dorado de los mares,” one of the most imposing ships of the 17th century and now lying as a wreck in the deep waters near the port of Cornwall, England. But it is not alone: resting with it is a treasure recognized by the Mexican government itself, made up of gold ingots, bars of Mexican silver and jewelry.

“A treasure of 100,000 gold ingots, 400 bars of Mexican silver and half a million pieces of jewelry. Its value is estimated at $530 million,” a CONAGUA article says.

The tragic end of the giant ship “El Dorado of the Seas”

This powerful ship, which seemed invincible, sank on Sept. 23, 1641, near the coast of the port known as Cornwall in England. Conagua describes it as one of the finest merchant ships of the 17th century.

Its tragic and unexpected end came in the form of a powerful storm that sent it to the bottom along with its cargo and treasure as it headed to Cádiz, Spain. The wreck left 18 men dead and another 40 men and their captain, Limbrey, alive and stranded after leaving the ship in lifeboats.

The Merchant Royal had spent years taking a beating in the West Indies: severe cracks in the hull, critical leaks since Cádiz and the nonstop failure of its mechanical bilge pumps. All of that, along with the fury of the sea and the storm, sealed the fate of the “El Dorado de los mares.”

Part of the treasure from the “El Dorado of the Seas” wreck was found

The Mexican government adds that nearly 20 years ago, an expedition to the sea floor managed to find part of the Merchant Royal’s treasure. There they found some 500 gold and silver coins in the wreck.

This discovery led to a dispute between Spain and England, since history did not make clear who owned the English galleon’s cargo. According to historical accounts, after a fire on a Spanish ship assigned to carry the cargo, the captain of the Royal Merchant would have offered to transport it in exchange for payment.

The galleon “El Dorado de los mares” was considered one of the most powerful ships in history and, in turn, the treasure it carried made it one of the most valuable and significant shipwrecks.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drivers should inspect the tires and check their pressure as soon as possible if this warning appears.

The system can detect low pressure through sensors inside the tires or by tracking wheel speed and other vehicle sensors. That information is processed to activate the indicator on the dashboard.

What does it mean if the yellow light flashes

If the symbol flashes for 60 to 90 seconds and then stays on, it may indicate a problem with the monitoring system. In that case, the NHTSA recommends contacting the dealer for an inspection.

This sequence can repeat every time the vehicle is started until the problem is fixed. That is why it is important to watch how the indicator behaves.

It may also light up briefly on cold mornings and turn off when the tires warm up or the outside temperature rises. This can happen when the pressure is close to the warning threshold. Even if the light goes off, the pressure should still be checked.

What should you do when the warning appears on the dashboard?

The recommended pressure should be checked on the label on the driver’s door frame or door edge, or in the owner’s manual. The reference to follow is the one listed by the vehicle manufacturer, not the one on the sidewall of the tire.

For routine maintenance, the NHTSA advises checking the pressure of all tires, including the spare, at least once a month and with the tires cold, after the vehicle has been parked for at least three hours.

A tire can be underinflated without it being obvious at a glance. That is why TPMS does not replace regular checks with a gauge. Keeping the tires properly inflated affects safety, tire life, and fuel economy.

They Plan the World’s Largest Stadium

Trong Dong Stadium is the centerpiece of a massive sports development, the Olympic Sports Urban Area, being built to the south of Hanoi, the Vietnamese capital. The project is being led by Vingroup, the country’s largest conglomerate, linked to businessman Pham Nhat Vuong. It is not an isolated project, but the heart of a sports city designed on a grand scale.

The figure that explains the buzz is its capacity: 135,000 seats. If it is completed with that capacity, Trong Dong would become the largest-capacity stadium on the planet, ahead of the current leader, North Korea’s Rungrado 1st of May Stadium, which seats about 114,000. Because the stadium is still under construction, that record is for now only projected; it will not be confirmed until the stadium is finished and operational.

A Stadium Designed as a Cultural Symbol

Beyond its size, the design is what connects it to the nation’s identity. The facade is inspired by the Dong Son bronze drum (in Vietnamese, trong dong), an ancient object that is one of Vietnam’s great symbols of heritage and culture, and it also incorporates elements of the Lac bird, another figure from traditional iconography. That is where its name comes from. The idea is for the stadium to be not just a sports venue, but a calling card for the country and its history.

How the Project Is Going and When It Will Open

Unlike a simple announcement, the project is already underway: work began in December 2025, so construction is in progress. According to the project timeline, the stadium is expected to be completed around 2028. The investment is enormous, although the highest figures circulating refer to the larger sports and urban development, which is much broader than the stadium itself.

Adding to that strength is an advance in its defense industry: the country completed the first flight of a supersonic Gripen E fighter jet (F-39E FAB 4109) built on Brazilian soil together with Swedish company Saab. The aircraft features advanced technology, can use long-range Meteor missiles and has electronic warfare systems designed to detect and disrupt threats.

The project calls for 15 units to be built in Brazil and marks an important step in the development of its aerospace capabilities.

Why Brazil Is the Latin American Country With the Greatest Military Power

Brazil ranks No. 11 among 145 countries in Global Firepower’s 2026 military ranking and is positioned as Latin America’s leading military power under this classification. The index evaluates more than 60 factors to determine each nation’s conventional military capability, including available personnel, weaponry, natural resources, defense spending, infrastructure and geographic location.

According to Global Firepower’s profile for Brazil, the country has 376,000 active-duty troops, 495 aircraft, 294 tanks and six submarines. Its air inventory includes planes and helicopters in various categories, while its naval forces include surface vessels and submarines. The site also estimates that Brazil allocates $26.4 billion to its defense budget.

The ranking depends not only on the number of soldiers or military vehicles, because Global Firepower also takes into account the logistical ability to move personnel and equipment and the extent of strategic resources.

What the Gripen E Supersonic Fighter Jet Looks Like, Which Brazil Began Building With Embraer

Brazil took an important step in its defense industry with the domestic production of the Gripen E supersonic fighter jet, a project developed through cooperation between Brazilian company Embraer and Sweden’s Saab. The first aircraft produced on Brazilian soil flew on Oct. 6, 2026, from Embraer facilities in Gavião Peixoto, in the state of São Paulo.

According to Embraer, this aircraft is the first of the 15 Gripen E jets scheduled to be built in Brazil under the current program. The 2014 contract signed with the Brazilian government calls for a total of 36 fighter jets, made up of 28 single-seat Gripen E aircraft and eight two-seat Gripen F aircraft. One of the model’s most important features is its ability to carry Meteor missiles, radar-guided air-to-air munitions that can reach targets more than 100 kilometers away and fly at four times the speed of sound, according to Saab’s published specifications.

The Gripen E also includes an AESA radar, advanced sensors and a 360-degree spherical electronic warfare system. According to Saab, this technology can detect signals, identify threats, manage countermeasures and interfere with an adversary’s electronic systems, while also protecting the aircraft itself from different threats. These capabilities allow the jet to carry out air defense, reconnaissance and attack missions, even in environments with advanced detection and defense systems.

How is listening to music while driving prohibited in Florida?

The law prohibits driving while using headphones to listen to music, including devices that cover both ears. The restriction applies to the driver’s use of listening devices.

However, the rules include specific exceptions. Among them, they allow the use of a connected earbud linked to a cell phone when sound is transmitted through only one ear and the other remains free to hear surrounding sounds.

What are the exceptions to the ban on using headphones while driving?

Under Section 316.304, the restriction does not apply in certain circumstances:

• People with hearing difficulties: they may use hearing aids or devices designed to improve hearing.
• Drivers using cell phones: they may use an earbud that transmits sound through only one ear and allows them to hear their surroundings with the other.
• Motorcyclists: they may use devices built into helmets, as long as the speakers do not make direct contact with the ears and allow outside sounds to be heard.
• Police and emergency personnel: they may use certain devices needed to carry out their duties.

What penalty does Florida impose for driving with headphones?

Subsection 4 of Section 316.304 states that violating this prohibition is a noncriminal traffic infraction, punishable as a non-moving violation under Chapter 318 of the Florida Statutes.

Therefore, drivers who use headphones outside the exceptions may receive a traffic citation.

To qualify for this benefit, applicants must pass a series of evaluations and complete a selection process. The announcement sets specific requirements for age, education, citizenship and physical fitness.

Which branch of the armed forces offers up to $140,000 in incentives to join?

The U.S. Navy offers financial incentives of up to $140,000 through its enlistment bonus program (Enlistment Bonus). The initiative seeks to bring in personnel to fill different specialties and roles within the Navy.

The offer includes different types of bonuses, so the final amount depends on the chosen job, the terms of the contract and recruiting needs.

The Navy also sets specific conditions to access these benefits. These include the enlistment program, the training start date and the chosen specialty.

What requirements must interested applicants meet to join?

The Navy sets out a series of general conditions for those who want to enlist as personnel. According to its official website, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Age: be between 17 and 41 years old. Those who have not yet turned 18 need permission from a parent or guardian.
• Citizenship: be a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident with a valid Green Card.
• Education: have a high school diploma or an equivalent GED certificate.
• Aptitude test: earn a qualifying score on the ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery), an assessment that measures knowledge and skills to determine which specialties each candidate can enter.
• Health: pass the medical exam at a Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS).
• Physical and personal conditions: meet the physical, mental and moral standards set by the branch.

In addition, there are other conditions that may affect applicants’ eligibility, such as:

• Medical history: certain illnesses or health problems that require long-term treatment may be a barrier to entry.
• Criminal record: some convictions or offenses may affect the ability to enlist.
• Drug and alcohol use: the branch has restrictions related to substance use and alcohol abuse.

How do you join?

Those who want to join the Navy must complete an application, evaluation and selection process. The process includes the following steps:

1. Contact a recruiter: learn about available opportunities, verify eligibility requirements and get guidance on specialties.
2. Submit the enlistment application: to complete the process, they must have the following available:
3. • Número de Seguro Social.
   • Información sobre sus estudios.
   • Historial laboral.
   • Antecedentes de servicio militar, si corresponde.
   • Preferencias sobre los puestos de trabajo.
4. Pass the entrance exams: take the ASVAB and complete medical and physical evaluations at a MEPS station.
5. Choose a specialty: select a job area based on the scores obtained, skills and available openings.
6. Sign the contract and take the oath: formalize the enlistment commitment and complete the required oath.
7. Begin basic training: report to the Navy’s training center (Recruit Training Command), where military preparation begins.

For that reason, those who got their last passport before turning 16 must submit a new application to obtain another document.

Why can’t children under 16 renew a passport?

Rules require minors to submit a new application in person using Form DS-11 to re-establish U.S. citizenship, verify identity and show consent from parents or legal guardians.

This process helps confirm that the requirements have been met to issue a new document to a minor. In addition, the restriction depends on the holder’s age when the previous passport was issued, so it also applies to people who are now 16 or older but received the document before that age.

What are the eligibility requirements to renew a passport?

The State Department sets a number of conditions for renewing a U.S. passport by mail:

• Submit the most recent U.S. passport.
• The document must never have been reported lost or stolen.
• It must have been issued within the last 15 years.
• The applicant must have been at least 16 when it was issued, and the passport must have been valid for 10 years.
• The document must be in good condition, aside from normal wear and tear.
• It must have been issued in the applicant’s current name, or the legal name change must be documented.

If these requirements are not met, a new application must be submitted in person.

What process must children under 16 follow to get a new passport?

Children under 16 must submit a new application using Form DS-11, accompanied by both parents or legal guardians.

The State Department’s process is as follows:

• 1. Complete and print Form DS-11, without signing it beforehand.
• 2. Gather the documents proving the child’s U.S. citizenship and the relationship to the parents or guardians.
• 3. Present the required IDs and photocopies.
• 4. Provide a photo of the child that meets official requirements.
• 5. Go with the child to an authorized office to submit the application, sign in front of the agent and pay the required fees.

When one parent cannot attend, additional documentation must be provided showing that parent’s consent or the legal authority of the parent handling the process.

What documents must be submitted to request a new passport?

According to the State Department, children under 16 must submit the following documents:

• Form DS-11: completed and printed, unsigned until instructed by the agent.
• Proof of U.S. citizenship: a U.S. birth certificate, a consular report of birth abroad, a certificate of naturalization or a previous U.S. passport that is fully valid and in good condition. These must be submitted in physical form; digital versions are not accepted.
• Proof of family relationship: a birth certificate, adoption decree, custody order or another document establishing the legal relationship with the parents or guardians.
• Photo ID for the parents or guardians: for example, a valid driver’s license.
• Photocopies: of the child’s proof of citizenship and of the front and back of the parents’ or guardians’ IDs.
• Photo of the child: an image that meets the official passport specifications.

If applicable, Form DS-3053 may also be required to show the consent of the parent who cannot attend.

What the photo must look like for a passport application

The photo must meet specific size and appearance requirements. According to the State Department, these are the main requirements:

• Age: taken within the last six months.
• Size: 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 millimeters).
• Position: face forward, head centered and eyes open.
• Expression: neutral, with mouth closed.
• Background: white or off-white, with no objects or shadows.
• Quality: color image, sharp and without filters or retouching.

In addition, the head must measure between 1 and 1 3/8 inches (25 to 35 millimeters), from the chin to the top of the skull.

What photos can cause an application to be put on hold

The agency warns that submitting the wrong image can delay the process and even put it on hold: “Unacceptable photos are the main reason passport applications are put on hold”.

Among the errors that can lead to a photo being rejected are:

• Blurry, dark or pixelated images.
• Colored or textured backgrounds.
• Faces that are partly covered or heads tilted.
• Photos with strong shadows.
• Images altered with filters or apps.
• Photos with red-eye or artificial colors.

Photocopies and scanned photos are not accepted either. For printed applications, the image must be on matte or glossy photo paper.

Can you wear makeup, glasses or head coverings in the photo?

The State Department prohibits the use of glasses, sunglasses and tinted lenses. The exception is for people who cannot remove them for medical reasons, as long as they provide a medical certificate.

Religious and medical head coverings are allowed, but they also require a statement. The face must remain fully visible and free of shadows.

Uniforms, camouflage clothing, headphones and wireless devices over the ears are also not allowed. Piercings and jewelry are allowed if they do not cover any part of the face.

Where you can get the passport photo taken

The options recognized by the State Department are:

• Passport application acceptance facilities.
• Businesses that offer photo services.
• A friend or family member.

What started as a love for animals has turned into a rescue that has already helped more than 250 dogs find a home.

How did Millie Bobby Brown’s love for pets start?

Her love for animals started early in her life. During a 2024 appearance on The Drew Barrymore Show, she recalled asking her parents for another dog when she turned 18. “They were like, ‘No, you can’t fit any more dogs in your room,’” she said on The Drew Barrymore Show.

Instead of giving up, as she grew older, she moved out and later settled on a farm in rural Georgia in 2022. There, she created Joey’s Friends, an organization that rescues dogs that have been abandoned, abused, neglected, or are at risk of being put down in overcrowded shelters.

More than 250 dogs adopted

The rescue gives dogs a safe place to stay, cares for their physical and emotional needs, and then matches them with families. In March 2025, Brown said on the SmartLess podcast that it had already helped more than 250 dogs find homes.

She is involved in every step. She picks up stray dogs, takes them to animal control to register them, microchips and vaccinates them, and grooms them. Many spend their first night inside her home before moving to kennels built on the property.

At one point in 2025, she was caring for 62 animals, including foster dogs, her own dogs, cats, goats, ponies, and a donkey. She lives there with her husband, Jake Bongiovi, who helps with the animals.

In March 2026, Joey’s Friends held its first annual gala. And despite the noise, Brown says she loves it. “There is so much chaos, and that is where I thrive,” she said.

So far, municipal authorities and recruitment officials have announced sessions in several cities, mainly for Sundays, Nov. 8, 15 and 22. The callups show where and when young men from the corresponding class and late registrants who previously completed the military ID card process must report.

Who must show up for the drawing?

The callups are aimed mainly at young men from the Class of 2008 and late registrants who processed their Military Identity Card during the designated period. Dates and venues may vary by municipality, so each participant must follow the instructions of their Municipal Recruitment Board.

The Defense Ministry says the drawing is held during one of the Sundays in November and that those who do not attend are considered to have drawn the white ball when they report for the January recruitment phase. For that reason, it is important to follow local authorities’ instructions and not assume that missing the session means being exempt from service.

Compulsory Military Service: Which municipalities announced the Nov. 8 drawing?

Three municipalities have callups for Sunday, Nov. 8:

• Ciudad Madero, Tamaulipas: the municipal government announced that the drawing will be held at 8:00 a.m. at the Américo Villarreal Guerra Auditorium. The callup is for young men from the Class of 2008 and late registrants registered with the Municipal Recruitment Board
• Durango, Durango: the City Hall Secretariat said the session will begin at 7:00 a.m. at the Polideportivo 450, located in Parque Guadiana
• Mérida, Yucatán: the city government website confirmed the drawing at 6:00 a.m. at the Poliforum Zamná. Participants will be those who obtained their Military Identity Card through the Municipal Recruitment Board.

Where will the Nov. 15 drawings be held?

For Sunday, Nov. 15, sessions were also announced in different cities:

• Juárez, Chihuahua: City Hall issued a callup for conscripts from the Class of 2008 and late registrants. The drawing will be held at the Estadio 20 de Noviembre at 9:00 a.m.
• Mexicali, Baja California: the municipal government called on young men to the Mexicali Gym. Check-in will begin at 6:00 a.m. and the drawing at 8:00 a.m.
• Cajeme, Sonora: the Municipal Recruitment Board invited participants to the Multiple Use Center (CUM) at 7:30 a.m.
• Ciudad Acuña, Coahuila: Municipal Recruitment Director Yessenia Barraza said the event will be at 10:00 a.m. in the central courtyard of City Hall
• Coatzacoalcos, Veracruz: City Hall, through the Municipal Recruitment Board, called on young men to the 20 de Noviembre Gym at 8:00 a.m.

Which municipalities will hold the drawing on Nov. 22?

On Sunday, Nov. 22, there will also be callups in three cities:

• Cuautla, Morelos: the municipal government said the drawing will be at 8:00 a.m. on the José María Morelos y Pavón esplanade in the main square. Participants must bring their National Military Service Identity Card
• Morelia, Michoacán: the session is scheduled for 8:00 a.m. at the Bicentennial Auditorium; doors will open at 7:00 a.m.
• Ciudad Valles, San Luis Potosí: the drawing will take place at 9:00 a.m. in the main square, according to the head of the Municipal Recruitment Board.

What do the white and black balls mean in military service?

The Defense Ministry says the drawing determines how enlisted Mexicans will fulfill National Military Service.

The white or blue ball corresponds to the trained-duty category, which means military training at military centers; the black ball means being placed on call.

Starting in 2026, training will include two tiers of 13 sessions, last three months and run from 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

In Florida, the Chapter 64 of the state statutes provides a court process to resolve this type of dispute between co-owners. The law allows one or more heirs to ask for the property to be partitioned and, when it cannot be physically divided without harming its owners, a judge can order it sold.

However, the brother who lives in the house may also have options to keep it. Under certain conditions, the law allows the possibility of buying out the other family members’ shares and keeping the property.

What rights brothers have to the family home after their parents’ death

When a person dies and leaves a property to their children, each heir’s rights depend on how the home was legally transferred and the share each one is entitled to. If the siblings end up as co-owners, none automatically gains exclusive rights to the home simply by living there, since all of them have an interest in the property and can exercise the rights the law gives them.

In Florida, Chapter 64 of the state statutes, which covers partition of property, addresses disputes between co-owners who cannot agree on what should happen to a property. Section 64.031 says one or more owners can file a lawsuit against the others to request partition of the property. That means the brother living in the house does not, for that reason alone, have veto power over the other owners’ decisions.

When brothers can force a sale of the house through the courts

When the heirs cannot reach an agreement, one or more co-owners can turn to a partition action, a legal proceeding aimed at resolving the division of the property. But that does not mean the home must be sold automatically, because the court must first evaluate whether it can be physically divided without harming the owners’ rights.

Section 64.071 of Chapter 64 says that if the property cannot be divided without harming the co-owners, the court can order it sold at a public auction and distribute the proceeds among the owners according to each one’s share. So if one brother objects to selling the house, the others can ask the court to step in and the judge can order the sale when the legal requirements are met.

What the brother living in the house can do to avoid the sale

The law also provides an alternative for family members who want to keep the property: buying the shares of those who asked for it to be sold. Section 64.207 of Chapter 64 says this. When this process applies, the court first determines the home’s market value and then notifies the co-owners who did not request the sale that they can buy the shares of those who did. They have 45 days from the court notice to say whether they want to do so.

This protection applies to properties that meet the requirements of the so-called Uniform Partition of Heirs Property Act, set out in Sections 64.201 through 64.214. For it to apply, among other conditions, the property must be co-owned, at least one owner must have inherited it from a family member, and one of the kinship or ownership percentages set by law must be met.

In addition, Section 64.209 says that when considering a possible physical partition, factors such as the following must be taken into account:

The property’s value if it is divided versus what it would be worth if sold whole.

• How long the family has owned or occupied the home.
• The heirs’ emotional attachment to the house.
• How the family member living there uses the property.
• Each co-owner’s contributions to taxes, insurance and maintenance.

In this way, the brother who wants to stay in the home may have an option to keep it, but he does not automatically get that right just because he lives there. If the buyout does not happen and the court decides the property should be sold, it can order the sale and the proceeds to be divided according to the heirs’ shares.

The agency schedules another interview within 60 to 90 days of the initial one. Applicants only have to retake the sections they failed, rather than repeat the entire test.

How many can you take the US citizenship test?

The English portion of the naturalization test evaluates an applicant’s ability to read, write, and speak English. USCIS assesses speaking skills during the interview, while reading and writing are tested through separate exercises.

If an applicant fails one or more sections, USCIS schedules a second examination within 60 to 90 days. For example, someone who passes the reading and speaking portions but fails the writing section will only need to take the writing test again.

What happens if you fail the English test a second time?

Applicants who fail the required English or civics tests again during their second examination will have their Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, denied.

This means they will not receive US citizenship through that application. However, USCIS allows applicants who believe the decision was incorrect to request a hearing by filing Form N-336. The denial notice explains how to request this review.

Failing the English test does not automatically cancel a person’s lawful permanent resident status. It means they have not met one of the requirements for naturalization.

Regular consumption may help lower bad cholesterol, improve digestion and control blood sugar levels. In addition, its components promote cardiovascular health and help prolong the feeling of fullness, an important factor for those trying to lose weight.

According to an article published by the portal Tua Saúde, written by Karla Santos Leal, a graduate in nutrition from the University of Rio Grande, this grain contains beta-glucans and avenanthramides, two compounds that play a role in different bodily processes and explain much of its benefits.

What are the health benefits of eating oats

One of oats’ main benefits is its ability to help lower LDL cholesterol, known as bad cholesterol.

That is due to beta-glucans, a type of soluble fiber that reduces fat absorption in the intestines and helps prevent cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks and strokes (ACV).

It may also help control blood glucose. Its fiber content slows the absorption of sugars from food, while its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds support insulin function.

Another of its benefits is linked to weight control. By slowing digestion and extending fullness, oats help reduce appetite and can decrease the amount of food consumed during the day.

How oats help regulate blood pressure and improve digestion

Oats can also contribute to the cardiovascular system’s function thanks to their concentration of avenanthramides, antioxidants that promote the production of nitric oxide. This substance helps relax blood vessels, improves circulation and helps regulate blood pressure.

On the other hand, their insoluble fiber content stimulates the intestines’ natural movements, increases stool bulk and makes it easier to eliminate. In this way, it helps fight constipation and supports balance in the gut microbiota, since its fibers also serve as food for beneficial bacteria.

According to Karla Santos Leal’s analysis in the Tua Saúde article, these properties are complemented by the presence of minerals such as phosphorus, magnesium and zinc, as well as essential amino acids like tryptophan.

How to add oats to your daily diet

One of this grain’s advantages is its versatility, since it is sold in different forms and can be used in sweet and savory recipes. Some options for adding it to your diet include the following.

• Ground oats, ideal for mixing with fruit, milk or yogurt at breakfast.
• Oat flour, which can be used to make pancakes, breads and cookies.
• Oat bran, a high-fiber option that can be added to different meals.
• Oat drink, a plant-based option to go with breakfast and snacks.

An important note

Although oats can offer several benefits, eating them alone does not replace a balanced diet or the habits needed to protect cardiovascular and metabolic health.

What Is Form DS-11

The DS-11 is the form used to apply for a passport in person, the same one filled out by people getting one for the first time. Unlike mail renewal, it requires appearing in person at an authorized location and submitting original documents. In other words, it is the full application process, intended for cases in which the State Department needs to verify the applicant’s identity in person.

Who Cannot Use Standard Renewal

There are several situations that leave a person ineligible for mail renewal and require them to use Form DS-11. The main ones are:

• People with a passport issued before age 16.
• Passports for minors cannot be renewed by mail, even if the person is now an adult.
• People with a passport issued 15 years ago or more, which is too old for simplified renewal.
• People whose passport is damaged beyond normal wear and tear (torn, wet, with loose pages or unreadable printing).
• People who reported their passport as lost or stolen, since that document is canceled and a new one must be requested.

Also included are people who changed their name and do not have a document proving the change (such as a marriage certificate or court order), who also cannot renew by mail.

Who Can Renew by Mail

To understand the difference, it helps to know when the simple option (Form DS-82) can be used: generally, when the person has the most recent passport, in good condition, issued when they were 16 or older, within the past 15 years and in their current name (or with documents proving the name change). Anyone who meets all those conditions can renew by mail and, in many cases, online as well.

The object was part of the cargo of the Ann Francis, an English ship that was wrecked on Dec. 28, 1583 as it returned from Spain. Among the treasures found are Spanish silver coins and rare gold pieces minted during the reigns of Ferdinand and Isabella, the Catholic Monarchs, the EFE news agency reported Wednesday.

How They Cracked the Lock’s Code After More Than 400 Years

To solve the puzzle, the researchers used micro-computed tomography, a technique that makes it possible to see inside objects and reconstruct their structures in three dimensions. That allowed them to study the lock mechanism and determine how the notches lined up with the letters in the combination.

“The micro-CT let us look inside the lock without damaging it,” says David Williams, a researcher in the School of Engineering at Cardiff University. Williams, who normally uses this technology to study bones and other biological structures, acknowledged that examining an object like this was “a new experience.”

The result identified the sequence ANCE, a combination that had resisted numerous attempts over the decades. However, the researchers still do not know whether that word had any particular meaning for the owner of the lock.

Fuente: Shutterstock

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The Sunken Ship’s Treasure: Spanish Coins and Gold Pieces of the Catholic Monarchs

The Ann Francis sank as it returned from Spain after a violent storm knocked it off course and ran it aground on Margam Beach, near Port Talbot in Wales. The remains of its cargo stayed buried for centuries under the sand until erosion began to expose the objects.

Most of the pieces were recovered between 1996 and 2017 by Peter Hughes, a metal detector hobbyist. The National Museum of Wales later acquired the finds, which included Spanish silver coins, rare gold pieces from the Catholic Monarchs, two coin weights and the brass padlock.

Specialists believe the object was used to lock a small chest containing valuables, since it was found near the coins and weights. In their view, it may have protected that cargo or held other items that did not survive the shipwreck, such as documents or fabrics.

Where to See the 1583 Padlock and Other Objects Recovered From the Shipwreck

“Elizabethan-era combination locks are known in Britain, but this one is in an exceptional state of preservation and is tied to a shipwreck whose date we know, which makes it a unique find,” says Alastair Willis, chief curator of numismatics and Welsh economy at the National Museum of Wales.

Hughes recalled the moment he found the piece and was struck by how easily its mechanism still moved. “When I moved the combination rings, they turned easily after more than 400 years under the sand,” he says. Despite making numerous attempts over nearly 20 years, he never managed to open the lock.

The piece and other objects recovered from the cargo are currently on display at the Swansea National Waterfront Museum, in the Tides of Treasure exhibition, dedicated to Welsh maritime heritage.

The exhibit will remain open until June 2027 and offers a look at some of the items the English ship was carrying. Although researchers managed to solve the code after more than four centuries, one question remains unanswered: what the word ANCE meant to the person who used the lock.

However, there is a simple trick that lets you fold them properly in just a few steps, reduce wrinkles, and make better use of the closet space available.

Why is it hard to fold fitted sheets without wrinkles?

Unlike traditional sheets, fitted sheets have elastic edges and corners designed to fit the mattress. That design makes it hard to spread them out fully and get a rectangular shape when folding them.

When the corners are not lined up properly, the fabric tends to bunch up in certain areas, causing uneven folds and making the sheet bulkier.

What is the trick to fold them and save closet space?

The trick is to tuck the corners of the sheet into one another to keep the elastic edges in place and create a rectangular shape that makes folding easier.

To do it correctly, follow these steps:

1. Hold the sheet by two corners: put your hands in the top corners, keeping the long side stretched out in front of you.
2. Overlap the first corners: tuck one corner into the others until they are all layered together.
3. Bring all four corners together: repeat the process with the remaining corners until they are all layered together.
4. Spread out the sheet: place it on a flat surface and smooth the fabric to reduce wrinkles.
5. Fold it into thirds: bring the edges toward the center and repeat the process until you have a compact rectangle.

That way, the elastic edges stay tucked in and the sheet takes on a more uniform shape, making it easier to stack with other bedding and make better use of closet space.

“Form DSP-150 is both a Border Crossing Card and a B1/B2 visitor visa, but it is generally known as a Border Crossing Card (BCC),” authorities explain.

What Form DSP-150 Is

Form DSP-150, also known as a Border Crossing Card (BCC), is not issued as a stamp in a passport, but as a laminated card similar to a credit card with graphics and security features.

Only applicants who are Mexican citizens and live in Mexico can apply for it. It is generally used for short trips, up to 30 days, by sea or land to border areas with the United States designated by authorities. In these cases, it can be presented as a stand-alone document for direct entry by land or sea.

“However, if you present the card along with a passport, the BCC functions as a visa and would allow you to enter the U.S. by land, sea or air,” USA.gov explains. USA.gov. In that case, it can be used to travel anywhere in the country.

Requirements to Apply for Form DSP-150: What Documents Applicants Need

In addition to being Mexican and living in Mexico, the State Department says the following are required to apply for this document:

• Meet all eligibility requirements for a B1 and/or B2 visa.
• Not plan to travel for more than six months.
• Submit documents showing strong ties to Mexico that convince authorities there are reasons to return to the country.

In addition, a valid Mexican passport throughout the entire application process is a required document and necessary to complete the process.

When applying, it is essential to follow the steps and provide any other documents specified by the U.S. embassy or consulate in Mexico where the application is filed.

How Much Form DSP-150 Costs

According to the official information, in November 2026 the fees are:

• Age 15 and older: $185 (valid for 10 years)
• Children under 15 if a parent has a BCC or is applying for one: $15 (valid until they turn 15)

“If the full fee is paid, the child receives a BCC valid for the full 10 years,” authorities say.

Turek is the first Democrat to win a Senate race in Iowa since former Sen. Tom Harkin in 2008. Libertarian Thomas Laehn took 3% of the vote, with all 99 counties reporting.

The 47-year-old will be sworn in Jan. 3, replacing Republican Sen. Joni Ernst, who chose not to run again. Democrats needed a net gain of at least four seats to win the Senate majority.

Turek centered his campaign on the cost of living. He tied Hinson to President Donald Trump’s tariffs and to the war with Iran, which pushed up fuel prices across the state.

Who is Josh Turek, the Paralympian who flipped Iowa’s Senate seat?

Turek was born with spina bifida, a condition he links to his father’s exposure to Agent Orange during a Navy tour in Vietnam. He had undergone 21 surgeries by age 12.

Around that age, he took up wheelchair basketball. He went on to play in college, professionally in Europe and at four Paralympic Games, winning gold in Rio de Janeiro and Tokyo and bronze in London.

After his playing days, he supplied mobility equipment to people with disabilities. In 2022, he won a seat in the Iowa House from Council Bluffs by six votes, becoming its first member with a permanent disability.

In Washington, he says his top priority is a public health insurance option, a government-run plan people could buy into. He also campaigned as a moderate, saying he would work with Trump on border security and had no interest in impeachment.

Why did Josh Turek’s transgender ad split Iowa Democrats?

In the final weeks of the race, Turek ran an ad saying “no Iowan should face discrimination” but that he opposes “males competing in female sports” and is “against taxpayers paying for sex changes.” The ad restated positions he had taken before.

It followed millions of dollars in Republican ads on the issue. One ad from Hinson and the National Republican Senatorial Committee, the Senate GOP’s campaign arm, said he backed taxpayer-funded surgeries. Turek told CNN he wanted to “set the record straight.”

Days before the election, Osceola County Democratic Party Chair Kathy Winter said his stance contradicts the state party’s platform on transgender health care. She later said she had voted absentee before the ad aired and left the Senate race blank over his earlier comments.

The LGBTQ+ advocacy group One Iowa Action also condemned the ad. State party Chair Rita Hart and other Democrats defended Turek. Democratic state House candidate Adam Peters said he disagreed with the ad but could “talk to him and make my concerns heard,” something he said he couldn’t do with Hinson.

What is the IRS Criminal Investigation

It is the IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), the agency’s criminal arm. Unlike the rest of the IRS, which collects taxes and reviews returns, this division investigates crimes. And it has one notable distinction: its special agents are the only IRS employees authorized to carry and use firearms.

In effect, they are federal law enforcement agents, with about 2,200 special agents in a force of roughly 3,300 people worldwide.

It investigates like the FBI

The comparison with the FBI is no exaggeration. IRS-CI agents are trained to execute search and arrest warrants, conduct undercover operations, and follow the money in complex investigations.

Its reach goes far beyond taxes: it pursues tax fraud and tax evasion, but also money laundering, refund fraud and identity theft involving tax returns, drug trafficking finances, corruption, terrorism financing and cryptocurrency crimes. In all of those cases, the crime leaves a financial trail, and that is where this unit comes in.

Why It Almost Never Loses

The most striking figure is its effectiveness. According to the IRS itself, the conviction rate in criminal tax cases has never fallen below 90%, one of the highest of any federal law enforcement agency in the United States. In other words, when this division takes a case to trial, the vast majority end in conviction.

That effectiveness rests on long, well-documented investigations, built precisely on following the money. To gauge its scope, in fiscal 2025 alone, the unit identified more than $10.590 billion in financial crimes.

According to the National Park Service on its official website, the date is meant to honor those who served in the U.S. armed forces. However, free admission will be limited to U.S. citizens and residents.

Who can enter national parks free on Nov. 11?

According to the NPS official free-admission calendar, the benefit on Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2026, will be available to U.S. citizens and residents.

That day, visitors who meet those requirements will be able to enter without paying the standard admission fee at NPS sites that normally charge for access.

Foreign tourists who do not live in the United States, by contrast, will have to pay the required admission fees, including additional charges for nonresidents when applicable.

That distinction is part of the terms set for the 2026 free-admission days.

Which national parks will offer free admission for Veterans Day?

The day will apply to sites managed by the National Park Service that normally charge an entrance fee.

Among the national parks that usually charge admission and will be covered by the benefit are:

• Yosemite, in California.
• Yellowstone, in Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho.
• Grand Canyon, in Arizona.
• Grand Teton, in Wyoming.
• Acadia, in Maine.

The agency notes that many of its sites already offer free admission year-round. As a result, the November 11 waiver will especially benefit those visiting parks that normally require an entrance fee.

In addition, the maximum earnings subject to the Social Security tax will rise from $184,500 to $192,300. Both changes are part of the program’s annual update and follow different rules.

How much retirees can earn in 2027 without losing part of their benefits

The limit will depend on the beneficiary’s age. For those who remain below full retirement age throughout 2027, the threshold will be $25,560 a year, or $2,130 a month.

If they go over that amount, the SSA will withhold $1 in benefits for every $2 they earn from work.

By contrast, those who reach full retirement age during 2027 will have a limit of $67,920 a year ($5,660 a month). In those cases, $1 will be withheld for every $3 above that amount, but only for income earned before the month they reach full retirement age.

Who can work without an income limit and still collect Social Security?

Retirees who have already reached full retirement age will be able to work and earn wages without an annual limit that would trigger benefit withholding.

Full retirement age depends on each worker’s year of birth. That is why it is important to check when you reach it before calculating how much money you can earn without deductions.

Also, the withholding applied for going over the limits does not necessarily mean a permanent loss: when the beneficiary reaches full retirement age, the SSA adjusts payments to account for the months when benefits were withheld.

Why the Social Security earnings cap subject to tax will rise to $192,300

Another change confirmed for 2027 is the increase in the maximum earnings subject to the Social Security tax, which will rise from $184,500 to $192,300. This amount determines how much earned income is subject to the tax. It is not a limit on collecting retirement benefits, nor does it mean that people who earn more than that amount lose their benefits.

The SSA also confirmed that tax rates will remain unchanged: employees will continue paying a combined 7.65% rate for Social Security and Medicare, while self-employed workers will pay a 15.30% rate.

New Social Security income limits for 2027

Here are the main changes announced by the SSA, comparing 2026 amounts with those that will take effect in 2027:

Maximum earnings subject to the Social Security tax

• $184,500 in 2026
• $192,300 in 2027

Limit before reaching full retirement age

• $24,480 in 2026
• $25,560 in 2027

Limit in the year full retirement age is reached

• $65,160 in 2026
• $67,920 in 2027

Income allowed after reaching full retirement age

• No limit in either year

He spread the blame across Truth Social posts, phone interviews and remarks to reporters at the White House. In a live call to Fox News on election night, he said he didn’t see the defeat as “a hit on me.”

Pundits called the sweep a tsunami rather than a wave because Democrats flipped seats in states usually favorable to Republicans, including Texas, South Carolina and Kansas.

Why did Donald Trump blame Fox News and Greg Abbott for the midterm losses?

As results came in, Trump posted that Fox News “bears responsibility for these losses” because it kept giving airtime to Democrats. He also went after the network’s polls and Democratic commentator Jessica Tarlov.

He still called in to the network around midnight. On air, he told anchor Bret Baier that Fox needed a better pollster, and Baier replied that the results closely matched the network’s own polling.

Abbott was next. Shortly after the governor conceded to Democrat Gina Hinojosa, Trump posted that Abbott wouldn’t have lost if he hadn’t become a “RINO,” or Republican in name only, during his last six months in politics. Earlier that day, Trump had praised him as “strong and highly respected.”

Did Donald Trump blame gas prices and his own candidates for the ‘blue tsunami’?

On Wednesday, a reporter at the White House ballroom construction site asked Trump about Vice President JD Vance’s claim that the Iran war cost Republicans the election. Trump said Vance’s view was “largely true” but added that he would make the same decision again. His reason was that the war “drove the gasoline up a little bit short term.”

That answer went further than his comments on election night, when he told The Wall Street Journal the war was only a “piece” of the defeat.

He also blamed the candidates, telling Fox they “just didn’t inspire the people to get out and vote.” Many of those who lost were his own picks, including Ken Paxton in Texas, Michael Whatley in North Carolina, Mike Collins in Georgia and Darline Graham in South Carolina.

He offered other explanations too: a “mood in the air,” the history of the president’s party losing midterms, and his not being on the ballot himself. Even so, he told Politico he didn’t “want to blame anybody.”

Did Donald Trump accept the Democrats’ ‘blue tsunami’ win?

He did. On his election night call with Fox News, Trump congratulated Democrats and said they “did a good job” and had “fought hard.” He added that he could work with them on “many things.”

He made the same offer in a separate call with CBS News, saying he looked forward to working with Democrats “for the good of our country.” In the same call, he reminded them of his veto power and said he would “just veto everything” if they didn’t cooperate.

Accepting the result marked a break from his 2020 presidential loss, which he never conceded. In October, he had said he would accept the midterm results “if they’re honest elections.”

The Democrat beat Republican Rep. Mike Collins on Tuesday in a state Trump carried by about 2 points in 2024. Ossoff first won his seat in a January 2021 runoff at age 33.

Before entering politics, he was an aide to the late Rep. John Lewis and ran a documentary film company that investigated corruption.

What do 2028 betting odds show for Jon Ossoff and JD Vance?

As of Thursday morning, Ossoff ranked first in a Polymarket field that includes candidates from both parties. Behind Vance were Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York at 13% and Secretary of State Marco Rubio at 9%.

Each contract pays $1 if that candidate wins, so a 21-cent price works as a 21% implied probability. The odds reflect where traders put their money, not what voters think.

The lead comes with a caveat. About $6.5 million has been traded on Ossoff, compared with about $18.3 million on Vance. Polling still favors Vance as Trump’s successor.

Why does Donald Trump call Jon Ossoff a ‘Pee-wee Herman lookalike’?

The insult came after a campaign rally in August. At that rally, Ossoff said Trump would rather “build his ballroom and travel with Natalie,” a reference to Natalie Harp, a close Trump aide. The clip went viral and angered the White House.

Trump answered by comparing Ossoff to Pee-wee Herman, the boyish, bow-tied character comedian Paul Reubens made famous in the 1980s. Later, a Republican-aligned super PAC ran ads showing AI-generated videos of Ossoff in a salon chair.

Will Jon Ossoff run for president in 2028?

Ossoff says no. “I have zero interest in running for president,” he said during a debate. He also pledged to serve his full six-year term, which runs through January 2033.

Bernard Fraga, a political science professor at Emory University in Atlanta, also considers a 2028 bid unlikely. He said Democrats’ priority now is proving they can govern from Congress.

The agency announced the policy in May 2026, saying that adjustment of status should be granted only in extraordinary circumstances.

USCIS limits green card applications from inside the US

Under the new guidance, temporary visa holders seeking permanent residency will generally be expected to complete the process through consular processing. This means applying for an immigrant visa at a US embassy or consulate abroad rather than changing their immigration status while staying in the country.

USCIS said officers must review each application individually and consider the circumstances of the case. The agency also instructed them to weigh positive and negative factors when deciding whether an applicant qualifies for adjustment of status.

Who can still apply for a green card without leaving the country?

The guidance does not eliminate status adjustment or automatically require every temporary visa holder to leave the United States. USCIS said the process may still be available in extraordinary circumstances.

Applicants must therefore meet the requirements for adjustment of status and have their cases evaluated individually. Those who do not qualify for an exception may need to pursue consular processing abroad to obtain permanent residency.

The guidance is based on a USCIS policy memorandum issued on May 21, 2026, and announced by the agency the following day.

This ID allows people to board domestic flights and enter certain federal facilities, and to get one, applicants must submit documentation that proves four general requirements.

What requirements must a person prove to get a REAL ID-compliant identification card or driver’s license?

New York’s DMV says people seeking a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card must provide documents that verify four general requirements:

1. Identity.
2. Social Security number.
3. New York residency.
4. Legal status in the United States.

In addition, the documents must verify the applicant’s full legal name. If the name has changed because of marriage, divorce or another reason, the corresponding proof must also be provided.

What documents can be presented to prove these requirements?

According to New York’s DMV, applicants can present different documents depending on the requirement they need to prove. Accepted proof includes:

Identity

• Valid U.S. passport.
• U.S. birth certificate.
• Other DMV-accepted IDs.

Social Security number

• Social Security card.
• Other documents that include the corresponding number.

New York residency

• Bank statements.
• Pay stubs.
• Utility bills.
• State driver’s license.

Legal status

• U.S. passport.
• Certificate of naturalization.
• Permanent resident card.
• Other valid immigration documents.

To prove residency, applicants must present two different documents showing their current New York address and issued within the past 365 days.

How does a REAL ID differ from an Enhanced ID?

Both the REAL ID and the Enhanced ID meet federal identification standards, but they differ in their functions and requirements.

The REAL ID allows domestic air travel and access to certain federal facilities, while the Enhanced ID adds another feature: it allows people to re-enter the United States by land or sea from Canada, Mexico, and certain Caribbean countries.

However, they differ in several ways:

REAL ID:

• Does not necessarily require U.S. citizenship.
• Has no additional fee.
• Identified by a star.

Enhanced ID:

• Requires U.S. citizenship.
• Costs an additional US$30.
• Identified by a U.S. flag.

Why is it important to have a REAL ID-compliant ID?

The REAL ID law was passed by the U.S. Congress in 2005 and set minimum security standards for driver’s licenses and identification cards issued by states.

As of May 7, 2025, people age 18 and older must show a REAL ID-compliant ID or another document accepted by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to board domestic commercial flights.

However, it is not required to get a REAL ID to drive in New York, since standard licenses remain valid for operating vehicles. It is also not needed to vote, receive federal benefits, or access medical services.

The citizenship test got harder

The new test returns to a stricter version. There are three main changes:

• The study question bank has grown from 100 to 128. In other words, there are 28 more questions to prepare for.
• On the exam, the officer no longer asks 10 questions but 20.
• To pass, applicants must answer at least 12 of those 20 correctly, instead of 6 out of 10 under the previous test.

In addition, some questions have been reworded so they are not as direct, and some answers now require more detail or precision. Taken together, the test is clearly more demanding than the version in place until now.

When it takes effect and who it applies to

The new test went into effect on Oct. 20, 2025. One key point to avoid confusion: which version each person takes depends on the date they filed their citizenship application, Form N-400.

Those who filed on or after Oct. 20, 2025, will take the new, more demanding version; those who filed before that date will continue with the previous version, the 2008 test with 100 questions. So before studying, it is worth checking which version applies based on the application date.

How to prepare

The best preparation is still to study the official materials. USCIS publishes the complete list of current questions and answers, which forms the basis of what is covered on the exam.

During the project, the animal learned more than 120 signs and began combining them to communicate. However, later analysis of his responses led researchers to question whether he had actually acquired the language skills they hoped to demonstrate.

The story of Nim Chimpsky, the chimpanzee raised like a human at Columbia University

The project began in 1973 under the direction of psychologist Herbert S. Terrace, who wanted to determine whether a primate could learn to communicate using a system of human signs.

The chimpanzee was born in November of that year and was brought to New York when he was about a week old. His name, Nim Chimpsky, was chosen as an ironic reference to linguist Noam Chomsky, who argued that language was a distinctively human ability.

According to an explanation in Columbia News, the animal was first raised by a human family and later lived with his trainers in an environment designed to encourage his learning.

How did they teach more than 120 signs to Nim Chimpsky the chimpanzee?

Researchers used American Sign Language (ASL), a visual communication system that allows words and concepts to be expressed through hand movements.

Nim received daily training to learn signs related to objects, actions and needs. These included expressions equivalent to eat, drink, play, hug and give me more.

Over time, the chimpanzee came to use 128 signs and produced combinations of two or more signs. Some of his sequences seemed like short phrases, which initially led Terrace to believe he may have been developing a linguistic structure.

The project sought to determine whether those combinations were spontaneous and whether they followed rules similar to those humans use to build sentences.

Why did scientists question the results of the experiment?

In 1979, Terrace and his colleagues published a study in the scientific journal Science titled Can an Ape Create a Sentence?

To produce the paper, they analyzed more than 19,000 Nim expressions containing two or more signs. Although some combinations appeared to show a degree of regularity, the analysis of the recordings revealed a problem.

The researchers observed that, on many occasions, the trainers made a sign before Nim repeated it. That suggested the chimpanzee may have been copying his teachers’ cues to get rewards, rather than creating spontaneous messages.

The research concluded that there was not enough evidence to say Nim had learned to form sentences with human grammatical structure.

What happened to Nim Chimpsky when the project ended?

In 1977, after about four years of training, the experiment came to an end. Nim was moved back to the Oklahoma Institute of Primate Studies.

He was later sold to a biomedical research laboratory. His situation raised concern among animal welfare groups and, eventually, he was moved to Black Beauty Ranch, a sanctuary in Texas.

He spent his final years there. Nim died on March 10, 2000, at age 26, of a heart attack, according to The Washington Post.

While this astronomical event is always one of the most eye-catching, skywatchers will also be able to see Mars and Jupiter closer than usual and, days later, enjoy a supermoon on Nov. 24.

In addition, this month will be a very special one for the aerospace industry, which could reach a milestone with one of its most remembered missions, Voyager 1, which was launched in 1977.

When to look up and how it recommends doing it

According to information released by the space agency, the Leonids will peak on Nov. 17 and 18 before dawn and after the Moon sets, when a maximum of 15 meteors per hour could be seen in ideal conditions.

“To improve your viewing experience, you’ll want to find a dark place, let your eyes adjust for about 30 minutes, and take in as much of the sky as you can,” NASA recommends.

Other meteor showers in November

The Southern Taurids peak today, Nov. 5, with an average of five meteors per hour in optimal conditions, and fireballs may appear at times.

The Northern Taurids will peak on Nov. 12, producing about five meteors per hour and an occasional fireball.

Mars and Jupiter Together Without a Telescope

In addition, on Nov. 15 and 16, Mars and Jupiter may appear closer than usual in the sky if viewed before dawn.

“Both planets are easy to see with the naked eye. They are still far apart in space, but from Earth they appear almost side by side,” it says.

NASA Makes History in November: What Will Happen to Voyager 1

On the 17th of this month, the Voyager 1 spacecraft is expected to set a record for humanity by becoming the first human-made object to reach a distance of one light-day from Earth.

“That means a signal traveling at the speed of light takes 24 hours to reach the spacecraft, and another 24 hours for us to reply!” NASA says.

Even so, the law provides tenants with different protections against unjustified increases for illegal reasons, such as retaliation for exercising their legal rights.

When can landlords raise rent without a limit?

In Texas, there is no state law setting a maximum percentage for rent increases, as there is in other states. Therefore, landlords can propose increases without a general limit when a lease ends and renewal is negotiated.

However, during the term of a lease, the landlord must abide by the agreed terms unless the document includes a clause allowing the rent to be changed.

In addition, Section 92.331 of the Property Code prohibits raising rent in retaliation against a tenant who in good faith exercises their legal or contractual rights.

What rights do tenants have in Texas?

Chapter 92 of the Property Code sets out various protections for tenants, both regarding habitability and against certain actions by landlords.

The law recognizes, among others, the following tenant rights:

• Request repairs, under Section 92.052, which establishes obligations for certain conditions that affect the health or physical safety of occupants.
• File complaints, under Section 92.331, which protects those who in good faith report certain housing code violations or utility problems.
• Participate in tenant organizations, also under Section 92.331, which protects those who create or take part in these groups.
• Exercise their contractual rights without landlords retaliating against those who demand that the lease be honored.

What is considered landlord retaliation?

Under Section 92.331 of the Texas Property Code, retaliation occurs when a landlord takes certain harmful actions against a tenant for having in good faith exercised their rights.

The law sets a six-month protection period after certain tenant actions and prohibits a landlord from retaliating through:

• Rent increases.
• Ending the lease.
• Starting eviction proceedings, except where allowed by law.
• Cutting back on services provided.
• Illegal restrictions on use of the home.
• Bad-faith conduct that substantially interferes with the tenant’s contractual rights.

Affected tenants may seek a civil penalty equal to one month’s rent plus US$500, in addition to actual damages, court costs and attorney’s fees.

Why does Texas not allow statewide rent control but does allow it at the city level in certain situations?

Section 214.902 of the Texas Local Government Code states that municipalities may impose rent controls only when certain extraordinary conditions are met:

To approve these measures, two main requirements must be met:

• Housing emergency: municipal authorities must determine that there is a housing emergency caused by a disaster, as defined in Section 418.004 of the Texas Government Code.
• Governor’s approval: the municipal ordinance must be approved by the governor of Texas before it takes effect.

What documents are needed to apply for a U.S. passport for the first time

The State Department requires two main original, physical documents for adults applying for a U.S. passport for the first time.

The first is proof of U.S. citizenship. To meet this requirement, applicants may submit any of the following documents:

• U.S. birth certificate: must be the official document that proves birth and citizenship.
• Previous U.S. passport: must be in good condition and have been issued with full validity.
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad: birth documentation issued by the State Department is also accepted.
• Certificate of naturalization or citizenship: this shows the person acquired U.S. citizenship through the proper process.

The second required document is an official photo ID. Applicants must bring the physical document that can be used to verify their identity.

• A valid driver’s license is the most common form of ID accepted by the agency.
• An enhanced photo ID can also be used.

How to submit the required documents to the State Department

The State Department also requires photocopies - on 8.5-by-11-inch sheets and printed on one side only - of the documents to complete the file:

• A photocopy of the proof of U.S. citizenship.
• The original citizenship document or a replacement version with the appropriate seal or stamp.
• A photocopy of the front and back of the photo ID.

In addition, Form DS-11 must be completed and printed on one side only. It is important to note that the applicant must not sign it before arriving at the office, where an agent will verify the applicant’s identity and administer the oath.

Do you need to submit a photo to apply for a passport?

Yes. In addition to the documents, each applicant must include a photo that meets U.S. government specifications; otherwise, the passport application will be suspended. The image must be in color and taken within the last six months. It must also meet the following requirements:

• Measure 2 by 2 inches (51 by 51 millimeters).
• Have a white or off-white background, with no objects, textures or shadows.
• Show the full face, centered and looking directly at the camera.
• Have a neutral expression, with eyes open and mouth closed.
• Be printed on matte or glossy photo paper.
• Have no filters, retouching or digital alterations.

For Matt Pannela, that first important decision came much earlier than for most. At 15 he was about to become a father as his now-wife was expecting their first child. In that context, while his parents told he needed to earn money, his school encouraged him to stay on track for college.

That’s when he had to choose his own path, and the decision he made would change his life forever.

The hard decision changed Matt Panella’s life at 15 years old

“It was conflicting,” Panella, now 29, told Fortune. “Ultimately what I ended up doing was dropping out of high school, which I don’t condone.” He went to work with his father on construction sites, becoming the latest builder in a long family line.

Panella started as a laborer earning $8 an hour, picking up trash and helping experienced carpenters. He learned by watching them and studying online forums. By 18, he earned about $18 an hour. By 21, $30.

After working weeks of up to 100 hours, by 22 he was making around $200,000 a year between construction and social media. But how did he build a viral media profile as a construction worker?

A construction worker went viral on YouTube

In 2018, he began posting construction tutorials as @MattBangsWood. One video on framing a wall drew nearly 4 million views, and the pandemic boosted his audience. Today, his 550 videos have more than 118 million views.

Now he buys, renovates, and rents or sells homes and works on development projects in California. He is also building GEN1, an AI platform to simplify construction. The idea came from a “dark chapter,” as the architect designing his own house died, and the plans could no longer be used.

His best advice for other workers

Panella says office workers can also move into the trades. “If you just clock in, clock out, and don’t enjoy anything that you do, I feel like you’re doing it for the wrong reason,” he said.

Demand is strong. According to Associated Builders and Contractors, the construction industry will need 456,000 new workers in 2027, and a 2025 FlexJobs report found that 62% of white-collar workers would switch to a trade for more stability and better pay.

What the law says about illegal street racing and maneuvers

SB 1764 targets three related offenses: illegal street racing, stunt driving, and, above all, street takeovers.

The law defines the latter as a coordinated event involving 10 or more vehicles operated in an organized way to take over a street or intersection — the kind of gathering where traffic is blocked so drivers can spin out, burn rubber and perform other maneuvers. Participating in or organizing that kind of event is what triggers the harshest penalties.

When is a driver’s license suspended, and for how long

License revocation is one of the law’s main changes, and the length depends on the offense and whether it is repeated. For illegal street racing, a first conviction brings a 1-year license revocation; a second within five years, 2 years; and a third or later within that same period, 4 years. For a coordinated street takeover, the revocation is 2 years, regardless of whether it is a first offense.

There can also be fines, criminal charges, and vehicle seizure

The financial and criminal penalties also increase with the severity of the offense and repeat violations. The first illegal street racing offense is a first-degree misdemeanor, with a fine of between $500 and $2,000. The second becomes a third-degree felony, with a fine of $2,500 to $4,000. The third or later is a second-degree felony, with a fine of $3,500 to $7,500.

Taking part in a coordinated street takeover is, from the outset, a third-degree felony with a fine of $2,500 to $4,000. In addition, the vehicle used in the maneuver may be impounded for 30 business days if the person arrested is the registered owner or co-owner. What’s more, under Florida’s asset forfeiture law, the law enforcement agency making the arrest can begin the process of permanently taking the vehicle.

The law also harshly punishes anyone who obstructs an emergency vehicle during one of these maneuvers, which is also a felony.

The ruling applies to asylum applicants who leave the United States and return to the country they fled while their cases are pending.

Returning to your home country could end your asylum claims

The case involved a man from Nepal who had applied for asylum in the United States. He received advance parole, which allowed him to travel abroad, and returned to Nepal for about two months in 2016.

He explained that he needed to visit his family because of his mother’s health problems and the effects of an earthquake. However, the BIA found that his reasons were not compelling enough to justify the trip.

As a result, the board determined that he had abandoned his asylum application and other requests for protection.

What exceptions can asylum seekers claim?

Under the ruling, returning to the country where someone fears persecution can be considered evidence that they have abandoned their request for protection.

However, applicants may argue that compelling reasons forced them to return. The circumstances of each case matter when determining whether the trip should count as an abandonment of the application.

The decision also clarifies that the consequences can extend beyond asylum to withholding of removal and protection under the Convention Against Torture.

In his message, posted Nov. 3, the businessman denounced the lack of protection, the difficulties in accessing sick leave and the lack of political backing for this group.

“The self-employed are second-class people. The new slaves in this society,” he wrote at the start of his reflection, in which he also lamented that many workers have to keep working even when they are going through difficult personal situations.

José Elías denounces the financial difficulties facing self-employed workers

The chairman of Audax Renovables focused on the conditions of those who work for themselves and explained that some have had to go months without a paycheck. He also pointed to the difficulty of stopping work when they get sick or need to deal with personal matters.

In that context, he cited some of the situations he said these professionals face. Among them, he mentioned those who “have worked for months without getting paid,” those who “could not take sick leave because if they stop, so does their business” and even those who “could not become parents because they did not have the time to do so.”

For the businessman, these circumstances reflect a system that hurts those trying to get an economic activity off the ground. “We are creating a system that systematically crushes anyone trying to get a business off the ground,” he warned.

The businessman criticizes the lack of political support for self-employed workers

Another central point in his post was the lack of institutional backing. Elías said no political party has consistently taken up the defense of self-employed workers’ rights and questioned why their problems continue to receive so little attention.

“No political party has ever been interested in taking up the cause of the self-employed or defending our rights,” he said on X.

In this regard, he called on political leaders to recognize the difficulties involved in keeping a business running and to act to improve the conditions of this group. “And until some leader has the loyalty these people truly deserve, we will continue to see how we are mistreated,” he added.

José Elías warns about the neglect of those trying to keep a business afloat

The businessman also lamented that the difficulties facing self-employed workers have become normalized. In his view, the problem is not limited to financial or work-related sacrifices, but also includes a lack of support and social recognition.

“And somehow, we have normalized being treated this way. But what hurts most is the absolute abandonment,” he said.

Elías ended his reflection with a pessimistic message about the chances of the situation changing soon. “Honestly, I have already given up,” he admitted.

Finally, he insisted it is necessary to understand the effort it takes to keep a business open: “Until someone understands the punishment that opening up shop means these days, we will keep being completely alone.”

The person listed as the contract holder is the one responsible for making the payments and also has the authority to carry out different procedures with the company. These include filing complaints about outages or failures, requesting rate changes, canceling the service and resolving other problems related to the supply.

When is the electricity service holder changed?

One of the most common reasons to request a change in account holder is the purchase or rental of a home. When the electric service remains in the name of the previous owner or tenant, it can create problems when carrying out procedures with the CFE or using the bill as proof of address with other institutions.

The death of the person listed on the contract also requires the information to be updated. In these cases, family members or heirs must handle the process and submit the corresponding documents to prove their relationship to the previous holder or establish their rights to the property.

Likewise, situations such as a divorce, a separation or the move of the person listed on the account can justify this change. Keeping outdated information could create payment or administrative responsibilities for someone who no longer uses the service.

How to change the holder on a CFE electric bill

The procedure to change the contract holder’s name with the CFE is free and must be done in person at a Customer Service Center. To begin the process, the account must have no unpaid bills.

Among the requirements and documents that must be submitted are:

• Valid official ID.
• Updated proof of address.
• Proof of registration in the Federal Taxpayer Registry (RFC).
• Recent photo of the meter reading.

If the request is made because the holder has died, documentation will also be required to prove the relationship to the deceased person or the legal connection to the property.

To complete the process, the interested party must go to the nearest CFE branch. The location of the service centers can be checked on the company’s official website or requested by calling 071.

The U.S. retirement system includes a minimum age to apply for benefits, a set number of work credits, and a calculation based on each taxpayer’s earnings history.

How does the U.S. retirement system work?

The U.S. retirement system is administered by the SSA, the agency responsible for providing retirement benefits to workers who meet the age and contribution requirements set by the federal government.

During their working lives, workers contribute to Social Security through payroll taxes. These contributions help fund benefits for current retirees and also build a work record that is used to determine future eligibility.

The system works through the accumulation of Social Security credits, which are earned from work income. However, earning the required credits does not mean everyone can retire at the same age or receive the same amount.

What are the requirements to retire?

According to the SSA, workers need to earn at least 40 Social Security credits, equivalent to 10 years of work, to qualify for retirement benefits.

In addition, workers must meet the age requirements set by the program:

• Age 62: the earliest age to claim retirement benefits, although the monthly payment is permanently reduced for starting before full retirement age.
• Between 66 and 67: full retirement age, depending on the worker’s year of birth.
• Age 70: the age through which delayed retirement credits can be earned, boosting the monthly benefit for delaying the claim beyond full retirement age.

How are credits earned?

According to the SSA, credits are earned from work income subject to Social Security taxes, for both employees and self-employed workers.

During 2026, the set amounts are:

• Two credits: after earning $3,780.
• Three credits: after earning $5,670.
• Four credits: after earning $7,560.

Workers can earn up to four credits per year, regardless of how much they earn above the set limit.

Credits stay on a worker’s Social Security record even if they change jobs or stop working temporarily.

How is each person’s retirement benefit calculated?

The SSA calculates retirement benefits based on the work income recorded over a worker’s lifetime and the age at which they begin receiving payments.

To determine the monthly benefit, the agency considers factors such as:

• work earnings, adjusted under Social Security rules.
• Contributions to the system: income subject to Social Security taxes is counted, up to the annual limit.
• Retirement age: claiming benefits before full retirement age reduces the monthly amount, while delaying until age 70 can increase it.

In 2026, the annual limit on earnings subject to Social Security tax is $184,500. That means income above that amount will not be counted toward boosting that year’s benefit. For 2027, that limit will rise to $192,300.

Estimated average monthly benefits: 2026 vs. 2027

According to SSA figures, benefits will increase 3.6% in 2027:

• Retired workers:
• • 2026: $2,095.
  • 2027: $2,170.
• Retired couples (both receiving benefits):
• • 2026: $3,238.
  • 2027: $3,355.
• Aged widows and widowers:
• • 2026: $1,936.
  • 2027: $2,005.
• Disabled workers:
• • 2026: $1,642.
  • 2027: $1,701.

These are estimated average amounts, so what each beneficiary receives will depend on their earnings history, contributions, and benefit conditions.

According to WhatsApp's official Help Center, starting Nov. 30, 2026, only iPhones with iOS 15.15 or later installed will be compatible.

Which iPhone models will stop being compatible with WhatsApp starting Nov. 30?

The change will affect iPhones that cannot be updated to iOS 15.5. Older models that do not support this version include:

• Original iPhone, iPhone 3G and iPhone 3GS.
• iPhone 4 and iPhone 4s.
• iPhone 5, iPhone 5c and iPhone 5s.
• iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus.

By contrast, iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, first-generation iPhone SE and later models compatible with iOS 15.5 will be able to keep using WhatsApp if they have that version or a newer one installed.

How can you tell whether your phone will still work with WhatsApp?

iPhone users can check which operating system version is installed by going to Settings > General > About.

If the device is running iOS 15.1, 15.2, 15.3 or 15.4, it will need to be updated to iOS 15.5 or later to keep using the app after Nov. 30.

To look for an available update, go to Settings > General > Software Update.

WhatsApp says it will send notifications inside the app before dropping support for an operating system and will remind users that they need to update it.

If the iPhone does not allow a compatible version to be installed, users will need to use another device that meets the requirements to keep using WhatsApp.

At those moments, trying to turn it off the usual way can be difficult, and many users do not know how to get the device working again.

However, there is a simple procedure that can help resolve the problem without downloading apps or heading straight to a repair shop: press and hold the power button for about 60 seconds, an option Google recommends.

What pressing your phone’s power button for 60 seconds does

According to Google’s instructions, holding down the power button for about 60 seconds forces the phone to restart when it is frozen and the screen stays on.

This option is useful when the device stops responding to touch commands, apps freeze or the user cannot access the usual menu to turn it off or restart it.

The procedure is meant to break the lockup and get the system running again. In this way, the phone can return to normal operation without having to turn to more complex options.

It is important to keep in mind that this is not a method for repairing physical damage, battery problems or internal components. Its goal is to try to recover a device that stopped responding because of a system lockup.

How to restart a locked Android phone, step by step

Google recommends a simple procedure to try to recover a phone that remains frozen with the screen on.

The steps are as follows:

1. Find the power button: locate the physical key used to turn the device on and off.
2. Press and hold it: hold the button down for about 60 seconds without letting go.
3. Wait for the restart: let the phone complete the restart process.
4. Check that it works: once it turns back on, see whether it responds to touch commands and opens apps normally.

The recommendation is to keep pressing for about one minute. So if the phone does not react after a few seconds, wait until the full time has passed before giving up on the procedure.

What to do if the Android phone still does not respond after restarting

If the phone remains locked after trying the forced restart, Google recommends moving on to other checks to identify the source of the problem.

One of the first steps is to check whether any Android updates are pending. To do this, go into the device settings, select System and look for the software update option. Menu names may vary by manufacturer.

It is also important to check available storage space. According to Google, phones can start having problems when they have less than 10% free storage. In that case, it is important to review which files or apps take up the most space and delete those that are no longer needed.

Another possibility is that a downloaded app is causing the lockup. To identify it, Google recommends trying safe mode, which temporarily disables user-installed apps.

If the problem goes away in that mode, an app may be interfering with the device’s operation.

Its main capabilities include launching Tomahawk missiles, used to strike land targets at long range, and the use of anti-submarine weapons to fight threats underwater.

The destroyer belongs to the Arleigh Burke class, Flight III, and features the AN/SPY-6(V)1 radar and the Aegis Baseline 10 combat system. It was formally commissioned into the fleet on Oct. 3, 2026, at a ceremony in Alaska.

What the USS Ted Stevens is like and why it entered the fleet

The USS Ted Stevens (DDG-128) is an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, designed to operate in high-threat environments and carry out strike, air defense and anti-submarine missions.

One of the main differences from earlier versions of the class is the addition of the AN/SPY-6(V)1 radar and the Aegis Baseline 10 combat system. It also has upgrades to electrical power generation and distribution and to cooling systems, needed to support its next-generation electronics.

How its 96 vertical launch cells work and which Tomahawk missiles it can fire

The warship has 96 MK41 vertical launch cells, arranged in two sets installed on deck. Unlike conventional launchers that must point their tubes at the target, this system allows missiles to be fired from vertical compartments and readied for launch in different directions.

Compatible weapons include Tomahawk cruise missiles, used to strike land targets at long range, since they fly at low altitude along programmed routes and have navigation systems that allow them to hit specific targets. The newest versions include navigation and communications upgrades; the Tomahawk family also includes variants designed to expand its strike capabilities.

What weapons it uses to locate and destroy enemy submarines

To fight submarines, the USS Ted Stevens can use ASROC (Vertical Launch Anti-Submarine Rocket), an anti-submarine weapon fired from the MK41 system. Its job is to carry a lightweight torpedo to a point near the detected submarine and release it into the water so it can continue the subsurface attack without having to come directly close to it.

That capability requires sensors and detection systems to locate and track submarines.

How the SPY-6 radar works to detect air threats and ballistic missiles

The USS Ted Stevens incorporates the AN/SPY-6(V)1, an air and missile defense radar made up of four fixed panels that provide 360-degree surveillance around the ship. It is designed to detect and track aircraft, cruise missiles and ballistic missiles, even in environments with electronic interference. Its greater sensitivity allows it to identify threats at longer ranges and provide precise information on their location and trajectory.

The radar works with the Aegis Baseline 10 combat system, which integrates sensor data and coordinates the destroyer’s response, allowing it to track multiple threats and use compatible weapons, such as ballistic missile interceptors.

According to the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, compounds in this grain, commonly used to make breakfast, are linked to a range of positive effects on digestion and cholesterol, among others.

What happens to your body when you eat oats

The school notes that one of the main benefits of adding oats to your daily routine is its soluble fiber, which comes in the form of beta-glucan and can slow digestion and increase feelings of fullness.

It also explains that the fiber in this food helps bind cholesterol-rich bile acids in the intestine, carrying them through the digestive tract and making it easier for the body to eliminate them.

On the other hand, when the oat grain is eaten whole, it also provides phenolic compounds and phytoestrogens that may act as antioxidants and reduce the effects of chronic inflammation, which, as Harvard explains, is linked to cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

Fuente: Shutterstock

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How to make oats for breakfast and take advantage of their benefits

One of the recipes shared by the school suggests preparing the oats the night before so breakfast is ready when you wake up. The steps are:

• Add 1/2 cup of non-instant oats to a medium jar
• Add between 1/2 cup and 1 cup of cow’s milk or plant-based milk
• Add 1/2 cup chopped fruit
• You can add spoonfuls of Greek yogurt, some chia or flax seeds, nuts or spices (optional)
• Cover the jar and shake until all the ingredients are mixed
• Refrigerate overnight

“The oats will soften and the mixture will thicken to a pudding-like texture,” it says.

According to the SSA’s official payment schedule for 2026, this group receives benefits on the third day of each month. The same date also applies to people who receive both Social Security benefits and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

Which retirees and pensioners will receive their payment on Thursday, Dec. 3?

The Social Security Administration explains that the third-of-the-month payment applies to people who were receiving or applied for Social Security benefits on or before April 30, 1997.

Those who receive both Social Security and SSI also get their Social Security benefits on that date.

However, the agency says SSI payments are usually made on the first day of each month. As a result, people who receive both benefits have different payment dates for each one.

When will other retirees and pensioners be paid in December 2026?

For those who applied for Social Security benefits after April 30, 1997, and follow the regular schedule, the payment date depends on the birth date of the person on whose record the benefits are paid.

According to the official SSA schedule, December 2026 deposits are set for the following dates:

• Wednesday, Dec. 9: beneficiaries with birth dates from the 1st to the 10th.
• Wednesday, Dec. 16: beneficiaries with birth dates from the 11th to the 20th.
• Wednesday, Dec. 23: beneficiaries with birth dates from the 21st to the 31st.

The SSA also says that if a beneficiary does not receive payment on the scheduled date, they should wait three additional mailing days before contacting the agency.

The process applies, among other cases, to people with a 10-year green card that has already expired or is about to expire. The agency allows documents to be filed online or by mailing a paper application, although it requires applicants to follow the instructions and pay the required fee to avoid rejections or delays.

How much does it cost to renew a green card with Form I-90?

The cost to renew a Green Card depends on how the application is filed. According to USCIS fee schedules, the costs for Form I-90 are:

• Online filing: $415
• Mail filing: $465

However, there are situations in which the card can be replaced without paying the fee. These include cases in which USCIS issued the Green Card with incorrect information because of an agency error or when the card was returned to the agency because it could not be delivered to the recipient.

There is also a waiver for certain residents who turn 14 and whose card will expire after they turn 16.

How to renew a Green Card

USCIS offers two ways to file Form I-90: online or through a package sent by mail. Both let applicants start the process without leaving the country.

Filing the application online

This is the least expensive option. To begin, the resident must create an account on the USCIS official portal and complete Form I-90. Once inside the system, they can:

• Complete and submit the application.
• Pay the required fee.
• Check the status of the case.
• Receive notifications about the process.
• Respond to any requests for evidence.
• Update contact information and address.

Mailing Form I-90

Those who prefer to file on paper can also print and complete the application to send it to USCIS. The mailing address depends on the delivery service used:

• USPS: USCIS, Attn: I-90, P.O. Box 21262, Phoenix, AZ 85036-1262.
• FedEx, UPS and DHL: USCIS, Attn: I-90 (Box 21262), 2108 E. Elliot Rd., Tempe, AZ 85284-1806.

How to pay for the renewal

The payment method depends on the filing option chosen. For online applications, the USCIS system directs users to the Pay.gov platform, where the transaction can be completed.

For mail filings, the agency says applicants may use:

• Form G-1450: authorizes payment by credit or debit card.
• Form G-1650: allows payment by ACH transfer from a U.S. bank account.

Who can renew a Green Card with Form I-90

Form I-90 is for lawful permanent residents who need to renew or replace their green card. Not all immigrants have to use it: the reason they need a new document determines which process they should follow.

Applicants may file if they:

• Have a 10-year Green Card that has already expired.
• Have a card that will expire within the next six months.
• Need to replace a lost, stolen, destroyed or damaged card.
• Received a card with incorrect information.
• Legally changed their name and need to update the document.
• Turned 14 and must replace their card under the agency’s rules.

The young cyclist from Kebbi State, in northwestern Nigeria, has no engineering degree and grew up facing difficulties. “My childhood was not always easy, but the challenges I faced motivated me to work hard, believe in myself, and pursue my dreams,” he told the Nigerian news site Legit.ng.

And against all odds, he built a bicycle that went viral on social media and earned him the recognition of his whole state, an economic prize, and the Guinness World Record.

A bicycle almost as tall as a basketball hoop

Muhammad spent about two months building his bicycle, which stands 9 feet 5 inches (2.9 meters) tall, almost as high as a basketball hoop. The hardest part, he said, was keeping it balanced and stable despite its unusual height.

In many of his social videos, you can see he struggles to climb on top of the bicycle, but once he is up there, the balance is immaculate. To earn himself the international record recognition, he had to climb up, ride, and get down of the handmade vehicle without any help.

On September 22, 2026, he rode it in Kebbi State, getting on, riding, and getting off without any outside help. That earned him the Guinness World Records title for the tallest bicycle ridden unsupported.

He became known through his viral social media posts

Muhammad’s talent became known through his videos online. “There was no lobbying involved. His talent was discovered through social media and other media platforms,” said Abubakar Kalgo, patron of the local cycling association, adding that the videos reached an audience of about two million followers.

Before the record, Muhammad had already won a competition at the Argungu International Fishing Festival, beating 507 other participants.

Honored by his state

On October 28, Kalgo presented the Guinness certificate to the Kebbi State government. Officials praised Muhammad’s creativity and determination, and the state awarded him ₦1 million, about $740.

Now, Muhammad hopes to keep growing. His goal, he said, is to become a professional cyclist.

According to AccuWeather, isolated heavy showers and thunderstorms will still be possible Wednesday, Nov. 4, especially in parts of Florida. However, the rain will be less widespread than it was Sunday and Monday.

The forecast also warns that the arrival of a cold front could bring more rain toward the end of the week, both in Florida and in areas farther north along the Atlantic coast.

Which areas could see more thunderstorms on Wednesday, Nov. 4?

The heaviest rainfall from the storm system was concentrated in parts of central and eastern Florida, where some communities recorded totals of between 127 and 254 millimeters from Sunday through Monday.

The highest amounts were seen in a band stretching from southeast Orlando to north of Fort Lauderdale. In the hardest-hit areas, rainfall totals over several days reached between 305 and 610 millimeters.

For Wednesday, the forecast still calls for rain and isolated thunderstorms in Florida. However, AccuWeather does not identify any specific cities that are certain to see new storms during the day.

Will the rain continue after Wednesday, Nov. 4?

Meteorologists expect humidity to rise again in Florida toward the end of this week, as a cold front moving in from the north brings moist air from the Gulf and the Atlantic Ocean.

Although there is still uncertainty about how much rain this system could produce, the rain is expected to be considerably less intense than what fell between Sunday, Nov. 1, and Monday, Nov. 2.

The agency also says areas farther north along the Atlantic coast could see heavy rain toward the end of the week, especially in places that have not had rain for several weeks.

Meanwhile, specialists identified a medium risk of a tropical or subtropical system developing between the Bahamas and Bermuda this week. Any possible formation would be gradual and, for now, does not amount to confirmation of a new tropical storm.

Rain in recent days caused flooding in both coastal communities and inland areas of Florida.

The situation came after exceptionally high tides and strong surf also caused flooding and beach erosion along the state’s Atlantic coast last week.

The new rule expands the factors that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) can consider, including certain public benefits received by applicants. The change is part of a regulatory rewrite that voided the 2022 immigration rule.

The provision took effect on Sept. 18, 2026, and sets new guidelines for reviewing residency applications.

What USCIS changed under the Trump order to review Green Card applications

The Donald Trump administration changed the criteria the United States uses to determine whether an immigrant can get permanent residency. The move involves removing the 2022 rule on the factors and public benefits immigration officials could consider when reviewing certain applications.

According to the final rule published by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in the Federal Register on July 20, 2026, scrapping that regulation gives immigration officers greater discretion to assess each applicant’s circumstances. The change took effect on Sept. 18, 2026, and applies, among other cases, to adjustment-of-status applications filed on or after that date using Form I-485.

What public benefits can USCIS consider when reviewing a Green Card application

USCIS can take into account whether a person received or applied for certain public benefits subject to a means-tested review. In its guidance on the new policy, the agency cites different forms of aid that may be part of the analysis:

• Food stamps, such as the SNAP program.
• Housing assistance: certain housing aid programs.
• Financial aid for college.
• Cash assistance is intended to maintain income.
• Means-tested health benefits: such as Medicaid and CHIP.
• Other similar government-funded programs are subject to means testing.

The date those benefits were received also matters because the rule says aid received before Sept. 18, 2026, is evaluated under the 2022 regulation; by contrast, aid received or requested on or after that date can be considered under the new framework. That does not mean receiving public assistance automatically leads to a Green Card denial. USCIS must assess its relevance along with the applicant’s other circumstances.

Which immigrants does the new rule affect, and what factors does USCIS review

The change applies to certain immigrants seeking permanent residency in the United States through Form I-485. USCIS says the public charge ground applies to applicant categories that are not exempt by law. Those who may be subject to it include certain relatives of U.S. citizens and permanent residents, foreign workers, investors and diversity visa applicants. By contrast, protected categories such as refugees and asylees are exempt from this ground of inadmissibility.

To decide each case, officers must consider at least five factors set by law:

• Age.
• Health.
• Family status.
• Assets and financial resources.
• Education.
• Job skills.

They may also review the Affidavit of Support, Form I-864, and other relevant factors. The decision must be based on the totality of each person’s circumstances, so receiving public benefits is one element of the analysis and does not by itself determine the outcome of the application.

“If your child is under 16 and their passport has expired or will expire soon, you must apply for a new passport at a passport acceptance facility,” USA.gov explains USA.gov.

Passports processed in 2026 for a child under 16 will be valid only through 2031

Because passports for children under 16 are issued in the United States with a validity of only five years, those in this group who have applied for or are about to apply for their international travel document in 2026 will need a new passport in 2031.

“Passports for children under 16 cannot be renewed and are valid for five years”, authorities say.

How minors under 16 must apply for an American passport

The State Department outlines the following steps for parents or guardians to complete the process:

• Complete the DS-11 Form and print it on one-sided paper.
• Submit proof of the child’s U.S. citizenship, such as a birth certificate or a consular report of birth abroad. Only paper originals are accepted.
• Provide proof of the legal relationship between the minor and the parents/guardians. A birth certificate is one example.
• Photo ID for the parents or guardians, such as a driver’s license.
• Provide photocopies of the proof of citizenship and the parents’ IDs.
• Provide a photo of the child; it must not be stapled to the form.
• Go with the child to submit the documents and pay the fees ($135 for the passport book with all fees included and $50 for the passport card with all fees included).

“Both parents or guardians must appear in person with the child applying. If one or both parents or guardians cannot appear with the minor, they must provide additional documents,” the notice says.

Once all the steps are completed, the application status can be checked here.

Noncitizens can collect Social Security benefits

Social Security is not limited to citizens. A noncitizen can receive the benefit if they are legally in the country and meet the general requirements. Broadly speaking, those who may qualify include lawful permanent residents, people with a visa that authorizes them to work in the United States, and those admitted under certain immigration provisions. The key in all cases is the combination of legal status and having paid in enough through work.

The work-credit requirement

Like any worker, to qualify for Social Security retirement benefits, you need enough work credits. In general, you need 40 credits, which equals about 10 years of work contributing to the system with a valid Social Security number. In other words, what makes someone eligible is not citizenship, but having worked and contributed for the required time on the record.

What happens to people who worked without papers

Anyone who worked and paid in using a valid Social Security number earns the right to the benefit just like any other worker. By contrast, undocumented immigrants often pay taxes into the system (including FICA deductions that fund Social Security), but rarely end up collecting those benefits because they do not meet the status and registration requirements the law sets for receiving payment.

What documents the SSA asks foreigners for

In addition to the documents requested from any applicant, such as proof of birth and the W-2 form or tax return, people not born in the United States must provide one key additional document to the SSA:

• Proof of citizenship or legal status.

As with the rest of the paperwork, it is best to submit the originals or certified copies the agency requires, and not mail sensitive immigration documents, but bring them in person to an office.

What happens if you leave the United States

While a U.S. citizen can generally keep receiving Social Security almost anywhere in the world, a stricter rule applies to noncitizens, known as the “alien nonpayment rule”. In broad terms, if a noncitizen beneficiary stays outside the United States for more than six consecutive months, payments may be suspended, unless they fall under one of the exceptions provided.

Those exceptions include, for example, being a citizen or resident of a country that has a Social Security agreement with the United States, or having met certain residency requirements in the country.

The Negligent Operator Treatment System (NOTS) can suspend these offenders’ driving privileges for six months and place them on one year of probation.

Who could face an extension of their driver’s license suspension?

According to California’s Vehicle Code, the department may impose a six-month driver’s license suspension and NOTS probation to keep the offender under supervision.

During the six-month suspension, the driver is prohibited from driving and if they do, they risk having the DMV extend the suspension period. Once driving privileges are restored, they must continue complying with the imposed conditions for another six months, until the one-year suspension period is complete.

The measure applies at the third level of the NOTS system, which is reached by accumulating four points in 12 months, six points in 24 months or eight points in 36 months.

How does the negligent operator treatment system’s point accumulation process work?

California’s Negligent Operator Treatment System (NOTS) assigns points to drivers’ records for certain traffic violations and crashes in which they are found at fault.

Violations can add between 0 and 3 points, depending on their severity:

• 1 point
• • Speeding.
  • Driving an unsafe vehicle.
• 2 points
• • Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • Leaving the scene of an accident (hit-and-run).
• 3 points
• • Violations committed while driving a commercial vehicle.

The system sets out four intervention levels:

• Warning letter: 2 points in 12 months, 4 in 24 months or 6 in 36 months.
• Notice of intent to suspend: 3 in 12 months, 5 in 24 months, or 7 in 36 months.
• 6-month suspension and 1-year probation: 4 in 12 months, 6 in 24 months or 8 in 36 months.
• New suspension or revocation: failure to comply with probation conditions.

What happens after the license suspension, and what precautions should be taken?

California’s DMV can impose one year of probation (NOTS Probation), which includes a six-month driver’s license suspension. Once the suspension ends, the driver may regain driving privileges but must continue complying with the stated conditions until the probation period is complete.

To avoid new penalties, the driver must:

• Obey traffic laws and avoid new violations.
• Not drive while the license remains suspended.
• Avoid crashes for which they could be held responsible.
• Appear in court when summoned for a traffic violation.
• Comply with any additional restrictions the DMV has set.

What happens if violations are committed during probation after the license is restored?

The DMV can impose additional penalties on those who fail to comply with probation conditions, even after they regain permission to drive.

The consequences depend on the number of violations:

• First violation: six-month suspension and extension of probation for one year from the date of the violation.
• Second violation: another six-month suspension and extension of probation for one year from the date of the violation.
• Third violation: revocation of driving privileges for one year.

Section 14252 of California’s Vehicle Code authorizes the DMV to take away a provisional license and order the suspension or revocation of driving privileges when a failure to comply with the established conditions is confirmed.