This is not a tax cut. The seven rates stay at 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35% and 37%. What changes is the income at which each rate begins, which rose by about 3.2% as an annual inflation adjustment. A Tax Foundation economist cautioned that these yearly updates don’t show whether Americans will end up paying less or more in taxes. Still, the adjustment offers a cushion against bracket creep, which happens when a raise pushes you into a higher bracket only because prices went up.

2027 tax brackets for single filers and married couples

These are marginal tax rates: you pay each percentage only on the portion of your income that falls inside that bracket, not on your whole income.

Higher standard deduction in 2027

The standard deduction, which lowers the income you are taxed on, goes up for everyone:

• Married couples filing jointly: $33,200, up $1,000 from 2026.
• Single filers and married filing separately: $16,600, up $500.
• Heads of household: $24,925, up $775.

Child tax credit and other changes

The maximum child tax credit rises to $2,300 per qualifying child, up $100, and the refundable portion goes to $1,800, also up $100. The maximum Earned Income Tax Credit reaches $8,496 for families with three or more qualifying children, up from $8,231. IRS Chief Executive Officer Frank Bisignano said taxpayers will see larger benefits next year, including the higher deduction and credit.

What it means for your paycheck

The brackets don’t change how much you earn. They change how much tax you owe on that income. If your pay only keeps up with prices, your tax bill should end up similar rather than lower. Still, some groups may see a small gain:

• Families with children: the child tax credit rises $100 per child to $2,300, and the refundable portion goes to $1,800. For a family with three children, that is up to $300 more in maximum credit.
• Lower-income workers with children: the maximum Earned Income Tax Credit reaches $8,496 for families with three or more qualifying children, up $265 from 2026.
• Most filers who take the standard deduction: for a single filer in the 10% to 24% brackets, the extra $500 is worth roughly $50 to $120 a year in lower tax. For married couples, the extra $1,000 is worth roughly $100 to $240. These are rough estimates, with everything else equal.

Example Illustration: A single filer earning $60,000 in wages who claims the standard deduction ($16,600) will have a taxable income of $43,400. Their federal income tax bill equals $4,952, calculated as follows:

• 10% on the first $12,800 = $1,280
• 12% on the remaining $30,600 ($43,400 − $12,800) = $3,672

(This calculation excludes tax credits, state taxes, and payroll taxes.)

Credits are claimed when you file, but your withholding decides how much is taken from each check during the year. Review your Form W-4 with your employer, and consider the IRS Tax Withholding Estimator to see whether the amount still fits your situation.

That is why a home remedy that tackles them at the source and with little effort has grown popular: spraying vinegar on faucets. It is not a random idea; it has a clear chemical explanation.

What Spraying Vinegar on Faucets Is Good For

Spraying vinegar on faucets helps remove limescale and calcium stains, that white or grayish crust that forms around the faucet, at the base and at the water outlet. It also helps restore shine, since those deposits are what dull the metal. It is a way to clean and remove buildup from faucets without having to scrub hard or use abrasive products that could scratch them.

The trick does not just cover up the stain: it dissolves it. That white crust is actually limescale, or calcium carbonate, a mineral that hard water, which is rich in calcium, leaves behind on surfaces as it dries. Vinegar, for its part, contains acetic acid, a mild acid that reacts with calcium carbonate and breaks it down.

When applied, the acid attacks the scale, softens it and loosens it from the metal, so it can later be wiped away with a simple cloth, without any scraping. That is why the faucet is left smooth and shiny again.

Step by Step: How to Make the Mixture at Home

The process is very simple:

• Mix white vinegar with a little water in a spray bottle (pure vinegar can be used for tougher buildup).
• Spray directly onto the faucet, covering the areas with white stains and the water outlet well.
• For more stubborn scale, it helps to wrap the faucet with a cloth or paper towel soaked in vinegar and let it sit for a few minutes so the acid has time to soften the deposit.
• Remove it with a cloth, gently rubbing; the loosened scale comes off easily.
• Rinse with water to remove any vinegar residue and dry with a clean cloth so no new water spots are left behind.

Why It’s Recommended

Beyond the results, the appeal is twofold. On the one hand, it is cheap and natural: It uses an extremely inexpensive product that almost everyone has in the kitchen instead of commercial limescale cleaners.

On the other hand, it is convenient, because it does the work almost on its own: You apply it, let it sit and wipe it away, without the effort of scrubbing away a hard crust. On top of that, it avoids spraying harsh chemicals in places like the kitchen or bathroom, where a gentler clean is preferred.

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

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

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

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

The recommended places are:

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

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

How effective is the aluminum foil trick for mice?

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

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

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

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

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

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

The deadline is December 7, 2026. Any changes made during this period will take effect on January 1, 2027. Beneficiaries can compare their existing coverage with available alternatives, including Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage and prescription drug plans under Part D.

However, choosing a plan should involve more than comparing monthly premiums. Drug costs, medical providers, pharmacy networks and additional benefits can also change from one year to the next.

What Medicare beneficiaries should review before December 7

The first step is to read the Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) and the Evidence of Coverage (EOC) sent by their current insurance provider. These documents explain changes to premiums, deductibles, covered services, prescription drugs and out-of-pocket expenses for the following year.

There are several important points to check before deciding whether to keep the same coverage:

• Monthly premiums: Check whether the amount paid for health or prescription drug coverage will increase or decrease in 2027.
• Prescription drug coverage: Verify that all medications currently prescribed remain covered and compare their copayments or coinsurance.
• Doctors and hospitals: Make sure preferred physicians, specialists and medical facilities remain within the plan’s network.
• Pharmacies: Check whether the pharmacies used regularly are still included and whether preferred pharmacy arrangements affect medication costs.
• Additional benefits: Review dental, vision and hearing coverage, particularly if the plan offers these services as supplemental benefits.
• Deductibles and out-of-pocket expenses: Compare how much beneficiaries must pay before coverage begins and what their potential annual expenses could be.

A plan that worked well in 2026 may not offer the same combination of benefits and costs next year. This is particularly important for people who take several prescription medications or regularly visit specialists.

Beneficiaries can use the official Medicare Plan Finder to compare available options according to their location, medical needs and budget.

What changes in Medicare in 2027?

Several adjustments will affect prescription drug coverage and the costs associated with Medicare. Some changes could reduce expenses, while others require beneficiaries to pay closer attention to their individual plans.

Part D out-of-pocket limit increases to $2,400

One of the most important changes concerns Medicare Part D, which provides prescription drug coverage.

In 2027, the annual out-of-pocket spending limit for covered Part D medications will increase from $2,100 to $2,400. This means beneficiaries will have a higher threshold before reaching catastrophic coverage.

The standard Part D deductible will also increase from $615 in 2026 to $700 in 2027. Individual plans can establish lower deductibles or offer coverage with no deductible, but they cannot exceed the federal maximum.

These adjustments make it especially important to compare prescription drug plans before the enrollment period closes, particularly for people with ongoing medication expenses.

Federal Part D premium stabilization program ends

Another relevant development is the conclusion of the Part D Premium Stabilization Demonstration, a temporary federal initiative designed to help control premium fluctuations in stand-alone prescription drug plans.

The program will end after 2026, and Medicare will return to traditional market conditions for these plans in 2027.

According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the average monthly premium for stand-alone Part D plans is projected to increase from $35.09 in 2026 to $36 in 2027, a rise of less than $1.

Meanwhile, the average monthly prescription drug premium for Medicare Advantage plans that include Part D coverage is projected to decrease from $11.32 to $7.

These are national averages, not guaranteed prices for individual beneficiaries. Actual premiums depend on the specific plan and location, making it important to check the available options before December 7.

Medicare negotiates lower prices for 15 prescription drugs

Starting January 1, 2027, negotiated prices will take effect for 15 prescription drugs covered under Medicare Part D.

The second round of negotiations includes medications such as Ozempic, Rybelsus and Wegovy, alongside treatments for cancer, diabetes and other medical conditions.

CMS estimates that the negotiated prices could generate approximately $685 million in out-of-pocket savings for Medicare beneficiaries in 2027.

The actual savings for each person will depend on the medication they use, their prescription drug plan and the applicable coverage conditions.

Will Medicare Advantage premiums decrease in 2027?

CMS also projects a reduction in the average monthly premium for Medicare Advantage, the privately administered alternative to Original Medicare.

The weighted average monthly premium across Medicare Advantage plans is expected to fall from $14.37 in 2026 to $12 in 2027, representing a 16.5% decrease.

The agency also expects supplemental benefits, including dental, vision and hearing coverage, to remain stable overall.

However, these national projections do not mean every beneficiary will pay less. Insurance companies can modify their offerings, provider networks and cost-sharing arrangements, and some plans may no longer be available in particular areas.

For that reason, beneficiaries should check whether their current Medicare Advantage plan will continue operating in their area and whether its benefits will remain suitable for their needs.

What happens if beneficiaries do not change their Medicare plan?

Changing coverage is not mandatory during the Annual Open Enrollment Period. People who are satisfied with their current plan and whose coverage will continue in 2027 generally do not need to take any action. Their existing enrollment will carry over into the following year.

However, doing nothing without reviewing the updated coverage information could mean overlooking higher premiums, changes to prescription drug coverage or the removal of preferred doctors and hospitals from a provider network.

Anyone who decides to switch plans must submit the enrollment request by December 7, 2026. The new coverage will generally become effective on January 1, 2027.

Beneficiaries can review their options through Medicare.gov, contact Medicare by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or seek free personalized assistance through their State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP).

When it is submitted along with the rest of the documents needed to apply for the travel document, it will be mandatory to pay a ‘double fee’, split between the amount due to the State Department and the amount paid to the office where the application is submitted.

Anyone filing Form DS-11 must pay a ‘double fee’: what each charge covers

According to the official information, one of the fees is the passport application cost and is paid to the State Department; this covers processing and printing the document. The other is the acceptance fee, paid to the office that took the application to cover identity verification and sending all the paperwork to the State Department.

Because when renewing through Form DS-82 the entire process is handled by the State Department, the passport is cheaper because there is no need to pay a double fee: the acceptance fee is no longer required

“Passport acceptance facilities include libraries, local government offices and post offices. These facilities charge the acceptance fee for reviewing your forms and accepting your application,” officials explain.

How much does it cost to get a passport with Form DS-11 and pay this ‘double fee’?

Fees vary depending on whether you apply for a passport book, passport card or both and the applicant’s age. These are the costs for an adult passport, depending on the format:

Passport book

• Application fee: $130
• Acceptance fee: $35
• Total cost: $165

Passport card

• Application fee: $30
• Acceptance fee: $35
• Total cost: $65

Passport book and card

• Application fee: $160
• Acceptance fee: $35
• Total cost: $195

Other charges can be added to these amounts, such as expedited shipping, if selected, or a search for proof of citizenship, if needed.

The ship is part of the Flight III variant and includes systems that allow it to carry out air defense and ballistic missile defense missions at the same time, according to the official statement published on DVIDS.

Where the new destroyer was built and how long it is

The USS Ted Stevens was built by Ingalls Shipbuilding, a division of HII, in Pascagoula, Mississippi. The manufacturer said the ship left the shipyard on May 8, 2026, before its later commissioning.

The Navy fact sheet on Arleigh Burke-class destroyers lists a length of 155.29 meters for the Flight IIA and Flight III variants. Length refers to the ship’s overall length.

The same fact sheet describes these destroyers as surface ships capable of carrying out a range of missions, including air, antisubmarine and anti-surface warfare.

What systems it uses to counter air threats and missiles

The USS Ted Stevens is equipped with the AN/SPY-6(V)1 air and missile defense radar and the Aegis Baseline 10 combat system.

The announcement of its commissioning highlights its ability to combine air defense and ballistic missile defense operations. It also says the destroyer has upgrades to electrical power distribution and greater cooling capacity for its systems.

The Navy says the AN/SPY-6(V)1 radar is the centerpiece of the Flight III upgrade and allows the ship to carry out both defense missions simultaneously.

Whom it honors and where it will be based

The destroyer is named after Ted Stevens, a former Alaska senator and combat aviator during World War II.

According to the commissioning announcement, after post-ceremony operations, the ship would move to Norfolk, Virginia, its permanent home port.

The project was announced Nov. 5, 2026, by the company and state officials, according to the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development.

What the new facility will make

Operations at 4th Street will move to a 120,000-square-foot facility, about 11,148 square meters, in the Selmer/McNairy Industrial Park.

There, it will manufacture and distribute electrical distribution systems known as busway and bus plug, among other electrical products.

How the moves will be scheduled in 2027

The plan includes two buildings. During the first half of the year, ABB will begin moving about 90% of the equipment and employees to the newly completed 325,000-square-foot plant.

The remaining equipment and employees will move during the second half of the year to the facility announced in November.

In 2025, ABB had announced a $100 million investment and more than 50 new jobs for the larger plant.

According to the release, ABB will have more than 1,500 employees across its five locations in Tennessee.

To comply with the regulations, owners do not need to request an inspection on their own on a regular basis; instead, when their turn comes, they will be selected and receive official notice.

House-to-house inspections in Boston: What the government says

When an owner receives a notice that their rental property will be inspected, they have two options.

The first is to request that a city-licensed inspector check each unit. According to the latest update on the official website, the prices for these inspections were as follows:

• Buildings with 1 to 3 units: $50 per unit
• Buildings with 4 units or more: $75 per unit
• Condominiums: $75 per unit

However, they can also hire a licensed inspector to carry out the review and submit an approved report for each unit, signed by the inspector (which will carry an administrative fee of $15 per report), and a signed affidavit by the professional for each unit inspected.

In addition, those with a compliance history with all state and municipal codes may apply for an alternative plan known as the “Five-Year Plan”.

Important information for anyone who receives an inspection notice

The city stresses the importance of carefully reviewing the selection notice received to see whether there are any date or time restrictions tied to this process.

Which rental properties are exempt from these inspections in Boston

Authorities say the following units do not have to comply with the every-5-years inspection requirement:

• Buildings with 6 units or fewer, if the owner lives there
• Properties owned and operated by municipal, state or federal government
• Boarding houses, student residences and accommodations with a current operating license.

According to the bank’s official information, the grant can cover up to 3% of the purchase price, with a maximum of $10,000. The money does not have to be repaid, but it is available only in certain markets and for certain mortgage products.

How much the program offers for the down payment

The aid can cover up to 3% of the home’s purchase price, without exceeding $10,000. The amount awarded will be subject to the program’s requirements.

The funds must be used exclusively for the home down payment.

Who can qualify for the aid

Bank of America requires buyers to be first-time homebuyers under the program’s definition, which includes people who have not owned a home in the past three years.

In addition, the rules require that the buyer occupy the property, that it be in an eligible area and that income and loan amount limits be met.

The mortgage financing must be arranged through Bank of America, and homebuyer education is required. The aid can be applied only once to an eligible mortgage or property, regardless of how many people are listed as applicants.

What it means that the grant does not have to be repaid

Funds received through Down Payment Grant do not have to be repaid. This applies to the grant. The mortgage loan must be repaid under the terms agreed with the bank.

The program’s terms also warn that the aid may be considered taxable income and that a 1099-MISC form will be issued. For that reason, the bank recommends checking its tax treatment with a tax adviser.

How to check the program’s availability and requirements

Bank of America recommends contacting a loan specialist to confirm whether the buyer, the home and the financing meet the requirements.

The official page also provides access to the Down Payment Center, a tool to search for homebuying assistance options.

The inquiry should take into account the property’s location and the loan selected, because Down Payment Grant is available in certain markets and cannot be used with all mortgage products.

In that sense, the California Driver Handbook explains to drivers how they should interpret a driver flashing the brake lights three to four times while driving.

Knowing this signal is not only essential for recognizing it, but also for using it when necessary.

What it means when a driver flashes the brake lights three or four times while driving

Authorities explain that this is a signal used by people who spot a crash on the road that forces traffic to stop, or by those who see any hazard that may require cars behind them to stop to avoid accidents.

Lightly tapping the brake pedal three to four times will turn on the vehicle’s brake lights and allow the driver to send an alert to the driver behind. The same effect can be achieved by using the hazard lights or making a clear hand signal while slowing down to stop.

Other traffic signals covered in the California Driver Handbook

Consistent with the above, the handbook says the hazard lights should be used if the vehicle has a mechanical problem to alert other drivers to the issue.

The horn also has a signaling use listed in the handbook: it should be used to warn oncoming traffic that a vehicle is traveling on narrow mountain roads when you cannot see 60 meters ahead.

Cigna’s current plans remain active through Dec. 31, 2026, so existing members will maintain full coverage through the end of the year. The primary focus now shifts to Open Enrollment for 2027, which runs through Jan. 15 in most affected states.

Why Cigna is leaving the ACA Marketplace

Cigna is exiting the individual market to focus on its core growth areas, such as employer-sponsored plans and health services, citing limited potential to scale its ACA exchange portfolio. Cigna executive Brian Evanko described the ACA market as a small and shrinking segment for the company.

Cigna maintains 18.3 million total health members, making its individual exchange business a minor fraction of its overall portfolio. Individual enrollment had already dropped roughly 17% year-over-year—from 446,000 to 369,000.

According to health policy analysis by KFF, the departure applies to all individual plans sold through the ACA marketplace as well as off-exchange plans purchased directly from Cigna in all 11 operating states. It does not impact employer-provided Cigna coverage.

Affected states and deadlines

The Critical Key Date: Dec. 15 for Jan. 1 Coverage

While Open Enrollment extends to Jan. 15 in most states, Dec. 15 is the deadline to secure continuous coverage starting Jan. 1, 2027.

In states operating on HealthCare.gov:

• Enrolling by Dec. 15: Coverage begins Jan. 1, 2027.
• Enrolling between Dec. 16 and Jan. 15: Coverage begins Feb. 1, 2027, creating a one-month coverage gap.

What happens if you take no action?

Consequences vary depending on state regulations and enrollment method:

• Automatic Re-enrollment: Some state-based exchanges (such as Georgia Access) may automatically map Cigna policyholders to a comparable plan from a different insurer. However, deductible levels, premiums, and network providers may change.
• Manual Selection Required: Other marketplaces, including Get Covered Illinois and Connect for Health Colorado, require Cigna members to select a new plan manually.
• Off-Exchange Enrollees: Members who bought directly from Cigna outside the marketplace will not be auto-mapped and must enroll in a new plan independently.

What you need to do: Steps to take before enrolling

1. Verify Networks and Formulary Lists: Confirm that preferred physicians, specialists, hospitals, and prescription drugs are covered under potential new plans.
2. Evaluate Total Costs: Look beyond monthly premiums to evaluate deductibles, copays, coinsurance, and annual out-of-pocket maximums.
3. Update Income Estimates: Tax credit eligibility depends on projected 2027 household income.
4. Prepare for Market Rate Adjustments: Benchmark premiums across the ACA exchanges are projected to rise heading into 2027 following the expiration of enhanced federal tax credits.

What if you miss open enrollment?

Involuntary loss of coverage due to an insurer exiting the market qualifies affected individuals for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP).

For example, Connect for Health Colorado extends selection windows for impacted Cigna customers through March 1, 2027. However, enrolling after Jan. 1 risks temporary gaps in insurance coverage.

The preparation helps remove the dark layer that dulls the surface. However, before using it, the material the pieces are made of must be identified, because the recommendation does not apply to every type of flatware.

What the aluminum and baking soda do

According to the Reynolds guide, combining them with hot water produces a chemical reaction that helps remove the tarnish.

Arm & Hammer, the baking soda maker, also describes the process and explains that an electrolytic reaction occurs between the silver and the aluminum. Its guide presents it as an option for small items, including silverware and napkin rings.

How to prepare the container and how long to leave the silverware

Reynolds says to use a glass or metal dish about 23 by 33 centimeters, lined with aluminum foil with the shiny side facing up. A disposable aluminum pan is also acceptable.

The process is:

1. Place the silverware in the prepared container.
2. Pour in boiling water until the pieces are completely covered.
3. Spread two heaping tablespoons of baking soda evenly over the top.
4. Let the silverware soak for 30 minutes.
5. Remove carefully, rinse and dry with a soft cloth.

Which pieces can it be used on

Reynolds limits this recommendation to sterling silver or silver-plated silverware. It does not recommend the method for fine silver or for jewelry with gemstones or pearls.

Arm & Hammer advises paying attention to grooves and details on the pieces to remove any baking soda residue. Then a clean, soft cloth can be used to dry and polish the surface.

The date appears in the official 2026-2027 school year calendar and corresponds to parent-teacher conferences at those schools. The measure does not mean a citywide or statewide shortened school day for all schools.

Which students are covered by the early dismissal on Thursday the 12th

The calendar identifies two groups for that date. On one hand, intermediate schools, known as middle schools, which serve grades 6 through 8.

On the other, the early dismissal includes District 75 schools, which provide special education in New York City.

Which schools have an early dismissal on another date

For elementary schools and pre-K centers, the shortened day for conferences was scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 5.

At high schools and schools that serve grades K-12 or 6-12, the three-hour-early dismissal is scheduled for Friday, Nov. 20.

Families at private, parochial and charter schools, NYCEEC early childhood centers and family child care programs should check their school or program calendar.

Why families should confirm the schedule with their school

The education department warns that conference dates may vary by school. Families should therefore review their school’s communications and coordinate with teachers.

In its guide to parent-teacher conferences, NYC Public Schools says these meetings are a chance to discuss academic performance, the school experience and the support each student needs.

For the 2026-2027 school year, conferences generally will be held remotely, although in-person options are available. The time and format should be confirmed with the teacher or the school administration.

The original toilet paper patent offers a reference for the orientation envisioned in its design. This applies to both single-ply and double-ply rolls.

Along with knowing this reference, it is important to keep in mind the hygiene recommendations for using toilet paper and keeping the bathroom clean from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Forward or backward? Which is the recommended way to place toilet paper

The debate over how to place toilet paper on the holder goes back more than a century. One of the best-known references is U.S. Patent US465588A, filed by Seth Wheeler on Dec. 22, 1891, which shows the roll with the paper hanging over the front.

This arrangement corresponds to what is commonly known as placing the paper forward, an alternative in which the end hangs behind, closer to the wall.

What to keep in mind to stay hygienic when using toilet paper

Beyond the roll’s position, bathroom hygiene depends on other everyday habits. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stress the importance of washing your hands after using the toilet to reduce the spread of germs.

The recommendation is to use soap and water, scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds and rinse them thoroughly. It is also important to regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as the flush button, faucet and doorknob.

The U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) offers guidance on locks that allow agents to inspect luggage without breaking the lock. The Canadian government, meanwhile, explains the benefits of wrapping suitcases in clear plastic.

In that sense, it is important to know what each official agency recommends and which option is most convenient for securing luggage before boarding a plane.

Locking a suitcase: what the TSA says

For travelers who need to check luggage, using a TSA-approved lock is a practical way to keep a suitcase closed, since one of its advantages is that it makes airport screening easier. As the agency explains on its official website, these devices have a system that allows agents to open them with master keys when they need to inspect the contents, without having to cut the lock.

The TSA says the packaging for these products must indicate that they are compatible with its screening procedures. However, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) advises carrying cash, jewelry, medications, important documents and other irreplaceable items in carry-on luggage or on your person.

Wrapping a suitcase in plastic film: what the Canadian government says

The Canadian government says one advantage of wrapping a suitcase in plastic film is that it can show if someone opened the luggage without authorization, since any attempt to tamper with it can leave visible marks or tear the plastic.

The measure can also act as a deterrent against possible theft of personal items, because anyone trying to get inside would have to remove or tear the covering, leaving signs that the suitcase may have been tampered with. According to government recommendations, this option appears to be the most suitable for protecting your luggage.

Enrollment starts on Jan. 2 and will run through Oct. 15, according to the agency’s schedule.

The same year they come of age, young people must enlist and attend the draft lottery.

After learning the result, they will serve during 2028, under the category assigned to them. Sedena sets out five stages to complete the process: enrollment, lottery, recruitment, training and discharge.

How should young people in the 2009 class complete the process?

The first stage is enrollment, which is done at the nearest Municipal Recruitment Board or Borough Recruitment Office, depending on where they live. Those living abroad may also go to Mexican consular offices.

Sedena says the first-time process is free and must be completed within the established period.

To request the National Military Service ID card, applicants must gather the required documents. Among the documents listed by Sedena are:

• Birth certificate, original and copy.
• Current proof of address, original and copy.
• Proof of highest level of education completed.
• Copy of the CURP.
• Four recent photographs that meet the agency’s requirements.
• Universal form for National Military Service procedures.

Once registration is complete, young people must attend the November 2027 lottery, held on a Sunday at the Municipal Recruitment Boards and Borough Recruitment Offices. There, it is determined whether they will serve in units, identified with a white or blue ball, or remain on standby, with a black ball.

What happens after the National Military Service lottery?

The next stage is recruitment, which takes place on Saturdays and Sundays in January 2028. During that period, the young people who enlisted must turn in their card at the reception points set up by military authorities, which accept documents from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

After that comes training for those who are assigned to units. Since 2026, the program has included two cohorts of 13 Saturday sessions each, lasting about three months and running from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Those who draw a black ball serve on standby, under the administrative control of military authorities. The final stage is discharge, which takes place in December 2028 for those who have satisfactorily met their obligation.

Sedena also invites Mexican women to take part voluntarily in the training program.

By contrast, for Mexican men of military age, National Military Service is mandatory.

Not all citizens can renew online. Depending on their situation, they will have to renew by mail or apply for a new passport at an authorized center.

Who cannot renew their passport online?

According to the State Department’s official page, digital passport renewal is available only to U.S. citizens who meet certain age, validity and document-status requirements. The following people cannot use this option:

• Are under 25.
• Received a passport valid for less than 10 years.
• Have a passport that expired more than five years ago.
• Need to travel within the next six weeks.
• Are outside the United States or its territories when they apply for renewal.
• Need to change personal information, such as their name or sex.
• Have a damaged, lost or stolen passport.

How do you renew a passport by mail?

People who cannot use the online platform may renew their passport by mail, as long as they meet the requirements to file Form DS-82.

To complete the process, they must follow these steps:

1. Fill out Form DS-82: it can be completed online and printed for paper submission. It must be signed and dated.
2. Attach the previous passport: the most recently issued document must be sent.
3. Include a photo: it must meet the size and condition requirements set by the State Department.
4. Submit additional documentation: anyone who has legally changed their name must include the appropriate proof.
5. Pay the fee: the cost is US$ 130 for the passport book, US$ 30 for the card and US$ 160 for both documents.
6. Mail the application: place all documents in an envelope and send it to the mailing address for your place of residence.

What happens if you cannot renew your passport?

Not meeting the requirements to renew a passport does not mean a person cannot get a new one. However, they will have to use a different application method.

People who cannot renew online but do meet the requirements for Form DS-82 can apply by mail. Those who also do not qualify for that option must submit an in-person application using Form DS-11, which is used to issue new passports.

Who must apply in person?

The State Department requires certain citizens to apply for a new passport in person, with no option to use the mail-in renewal process.

This applies to people who:

• Have a lost, stolen or damaged passport.
• Received their last passport more than 15 years ago.
• Got the document when they were under 16.
• Cannot present their previous passport to complete the renewal.

In these cases, they must go to an authorized Passport Acceptance Facility and submit the required documents to get a new passport.

The idea uses a common kitchen item and requires no extra products or special tools. It is easy to apply and can be added to a cleaning routine, although it is important to know how to prepare it, what benefits are attributed to it and when the material should be replaced so it does not lose its usefulness.

What is putting aluminum foil on a broom for?

Putting aluminum foil on a broom is a household trick designed to make floor cleaning easier, especially in spaces where hair, lint and small dust particles build up. These bits can be hard to gather with ordinary sweeping, since some stick to the bristles or get scattered again by the broom’s movement.

The technique involves wrapping the lower part of the broom with a sheet of aluminum foil in an effort to improve the collection of this debris. In this way, it is presented as an inexpensive option to complement regular sweeping and reduce the amount of dirt left on surfaces.

How does the aluminum-foil-on-a-broom trick work?

The method relies on the supposed effect of static electricity. By placing aluminum foil around the base or bristles of the broom, the goal is to help attract small dust particles and keep hair and lint from spreading while sweeping.

To try it, follow these steps:

1. Cut a sheet of aluminum foil: use a piece large enough to cover the lower part of the broom.
2. Wrap the base: place the material around the bristle area, making sure it is evenly distributed.
3. Secure the foil: fasten it so it does not come loose or interfere with the broom’s movement.
4. Start sweeping: use the broom normally and see how it works on the surface.

This trick can be tried on different types of floors, such as laminate, tile and vinyl. However, it should not be considered a substitute for a vacuum cleaner or other cleaning methods.

How often should the aluminum foil on the broom be changed with this trick?

There is no fixed schedule for replacing the aluminum foil. The best approach is to check its condition after each use and replace it when it is too wrinkled, dirty, torn or has lost the shape it had when it was put on.

How often it needs to be changed will depend on how much the broom is used, how much dirt is collected and the type of surface being swept. If the material builds up debris or starts to come loose, it is best to remove it and put on a new sheet before using the broom again.

The method, known as the Moser lamp, originated in Brazil and later spread to communities in more than 30 countries. It works by using the refraction of sunlight through water to spread light inside homes.

How does placing a plastic bottle filled with water on the roof work?

Placing a clear plastic bottle filled with water on a house roof is a natural lighting technique. Its goal is to use sunlight to light rooms that are dark during the day, without needing electricity.

The system consists of installing a PET bottle, usually a two-liter one, through an opening in the roof. Part of the container is exposed to the outside to receive sunlight, while the other part extends into the home.

When sunlight passes through the bottle, the water changes its path and helps spread the light in different directions inside the room. To keep the water clear, a small amount of bleach can be added to help prevent algae and microorganisms from growing.

What is the origin of the trick of placing a plastic bottle filled with water on the roof?

The technique was developed in the early 2000s by Alfredo Moser, a Brazilian mechanic from the city of Uberaba, in the state of Minas Gerais.

The idea emerged amid power-supply problems in Brazil. Faced with blackouts and the need to light rooms during the day, Moser looked for a low-cost alternative that did not depend on the power grid.

The initiative gained broader international reach in 2011, when the MyShelter Foundation brought the idea to the Philippines through the Liter of Light program. During its first 20 months, it was implemented in more than 150,000 Filipino homes and reached about 350,000 homes across 15 countries. Over time, it spread to more than 30 countries.

What are the benefits of placing a plastic water bottle on the roof?

The Moser lamp offers an affordable lighting alternative for homes and workplaces that struggle to make use of natural light.

Its main benefits include:

• Reduces electricity use: it lights rooms during daylight hours without turning on electric bulbs.
• Low installation cost: it uses accessible materials, such as a clear PET bottle and water, with no electronic components needed.
• Reuses plastic materials: it makes use of bottles that might otherwise become waste.
• Improves lighting in dark spaces: it can be used in rooms without enough windows, warehouses, interior hallways and small workshops.
• No electrical connection needed: it works directly with sunlight, so it can be useful in communities with limited or unreliable access to electricity.

Before installing it, it is recommended to assess the condition of the roof, as it is necessary to drill through it and properly seal the bottle edges to prevent water leaks.

The agency said these conditions could also cause puddling, flooding in low-lying areas, landslides and rising levels in rivers and streams. Strong wind gusts could also knock down trees and billboards.

Watch: Where the heaviest rain is expected

For Monday, Nov. 9, the SMN forecasts heavy rain with locally very heavy totals of 50 to 75 millimeters in northeastern Tamaulipas.

Rain of 25 to 50 millimeters is also expected in parts of Nuevo Leon, Veracruz, Puebla, Oaxaca, Chiapas and Tabasco.

The rainfall will be tied mainly to cold front No. 4, which will remain stationary over the eastern part of the country, as well as low-pressure troughs and moisture moving in from the Pacific Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea.

For Tuesday, Nov. 10, the forecast calls for heavy rain in Tamaulipas and Veracruz. The SMN expects the rain to continue Wednesday and Thursday in different regions of the country.

Which states will see the heaviest rain

The SMN is maintaining a forecast for significant rain toward the end of the week:

• Wednesday, Nov. 11: 50 to 75 mm of rain in Tamaulipas, San Luis Potosi, Veracruz, Puebla, Chiapas, Tabasco and Campeche.
• Thursday, Nov. 12: very heavy to intense rain, with 75 to 150 mm in northern Veracruz.
• Thursday, Nov. 12: 50 to 75 mm of rain in parts of Tamaulipas, San Luis Potosi, Puebla, Chiapas, Yucatan and Quintana Roo.
• Thursday, Nov. 12: 25 to 50 mm of rain in parts of Guanajuato, Queretaro, Hidalgo, Oaxaca, Tabasco and Campeche.

The SMN also forecasts wind gusts and below-freezing temperatures in mountainous areas

In addition to the rain, the forecast calls for wind gusts of up to 60 kilometers per hour in different regions of the country. Gusts of 40 to 60 km/h will continue in the Isthmus and Gulf of Tehuantepec and will spread to Tamaulipas and Veracruz on Thursday. Other states are expected to see gusts between 30 and 50 km/h.

As for temperatures, the SMN forecasts lows of -5 to 0 C during the early morning hours in mountainous areas of Chihuahua and Durango. Starting early Thursday, those readings are also expected in mountainous areas of Baja California.

The agency said the cold air mass associated with front No. 4 will change its thermal characteristics and stop affecting the country on Tuesday.

At the same time, some states in the west, south and southeast will see highs of 35 to 40 C, including Sonora, Sinaloa, Nayarit, Jalisco, Colima, Michoacan, Guerrero, Oaxaca and Chiapas.

This outlook will be tied to the interaction of Cold Front 4, incoming moisture and other atmospheric systems that will also bring strong wind gusts and high waves to some coastal areas.

The stationary front will remain over the central Gulf of Mexico and, combined with a trough extending across the country’s northeast and east, will bring heavy rain of 20 to 50 millimeters in northern San Luis Potosi, as well as in the northern and southern regions of Tamaulipas and Veracruz.

Effects of Cold Front 4 in Mexico

The cold air mass will continue to bring a cool environment in the north and northeast of the country. Widespread patches of fog are also expected, which could significantly reduce visibility on roads in parts of those regions.

Meanwhile, a trough in the middle levels of the troposphere, together with the subtropical jet stream, will generate scattered rainfall in northern Mexico.

In the southeast, another trough and the steady inflow of moisture from the Pacific Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea will favor heavy rain in southern Chiapas. Moderate rainfall is also expected, with totals of 5 to 30 millimeters, in the west, center and south of the country, as well as in the Yucatan Peninsula and the Valley of Mexico.

Recommendations amid rain and possible impacts

The heaviest rainfall could be accompanied by:

• Lightning activity
• Strong wind gusts
• Possible hail.

These conditions increase the risk of mudslides, flooding in low-lying areas and rises in river and stream levels.

Meanwhile, isolated showers with totals under 5 millimeters are expected in states including Mexico City, the state of Mexico, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Zacatecas and Aguascalientes, among others.

Wind gusts, high waves and extreme temperatures

The SMN forecast points to sharp temperature differences across the country. Early Wednesday morning, mountain areas of Chihuahua and Durango could see lows of between minus 5 and 0 C.

By contrast, several states along the Pacific coast will see much hotter conditions, with highs of between 35 and 40 C. The forecast includes:

• Sonora
• Sinaloa
• Nayarit
• Jalisco
• Colima
• Michoacan
• Guerrero
• Oaxaca
• Chiapas

As for wind conditions, a north wind event with gusts of up to 60 kilometers per hour is forecast in the Isthmus and Gulf of Tehuantepec, in Oaxaca and Chiapas. This phenomenon could also generate waves up to 2 meters high.

Finally, waves of up to 3 meters are expected along the western coast of the Baja California Peninsula, so people are urged to take extra precautions both for boating and for recreational activities on the beaches.

It involves placing a sheet of aluminum foil under the ironing board cover. It’s not a pointless gimmick: it has a specific physical explanation and helps you iron faster.

What putting aluminum foil under the ironing board cover does

Putting aluminum foil under the cover helps speed up ironing and remove wrinkles with less effort. With this trick, each pass of the iron is more effective, so fewer repeats are needed to smooth out a garment. In practice, that means less time ironing and, along the way, lower energy use from the iron.

The trick relies on one property of aluminum: it is a material that reflects heat instead of absorbing it. Normally, when the iron rests on the fabric, heat reaches it only from above, and the board underneath absorbs and “takes away” some of that heat. By placing a sheet of foil under the cover, the heat that would pass through the fabric bounces back up.

The result is that the garment gets heat from both sides at once: from the iron above and from the reflected heat below. With the fabric heated on both sides, wrinkles give way more quickly.

Step by step: how to do it properly

The process is simple:

• Remove the cloth cover from the ironing board.
• Spread one or more sheets of aluminum foil over the surface of the board, covering it well, with the shinier side facing up (the side that reflects better).
• Smooth out the foil so it is free of wrinkles or folds and the surface stays even.
• Put the cloth cover back over the foil.
• Iron as usual: you’ll notice clothes smooth out in fewer passes.

Why it’s recommended

Beyond the result, the appeal is that it’s a cheap, simple trick that makes use of something almost everyone has in the kitchen. It doesn’t require buying a special board or accessories: one sheet of aluminum foil is enough. Add to that the time savings, especially useful when there’s a lot of laundry to iron, and the energy savings, since ironing faster means the iron works less.

The requirement applies to people who must report income in the country but do not qualify for a Social Security number.

To get an ITIN, they must complete Form W-7, prove their identity and submit the documentation required by the agency, since not having this number can create problems for people who are required to file taxes or who want to claim certain tax benefits.

Which foreigners must complete Form W-7 to get an ITIN

The IRS lets people obtain the code, a nine-digit number used only for federal tax matters, through Form W-7. According to the agency’s official website, people who may need this number include:

• Nonresident aliens: when they must file a U.S. tax return or claim certain benefits provided under tax treaties.
• Resident aliens for tax purposes: people who must report their income in the country but are not eligible for an SSN.
• Spouses and dependents: of U.S. citizens or residents, when they need the number to claim an allowed tax benefit or file their own return.
• Foreign students, teachers and researchers: who must file tax returns or meet one of the agency’s listed exceptions.

The IRS also makes clear that tax residency does not mean permanent immigration residency.

What happens if they do not file Form W-7 and how they can apply for an ITIN with the IRS

Foreigners who need an ITIN to meet their tax obligations must file Form W-7 with the IRS. If they do not complete the process when required, they may have trouble properly processing their tax returns and accessing certain tax benefits.

The agency warns that the date the ITIN is assigned can affect the ability to claim credits such as the Child Tax Credit, the Credit for Other Dependents and the American Opportunity Tax Credit.

To get the number, applicants must follow these steps:

• Complete Form W-7: they must indicate whether they are applying for an ITIN for the first time or need to renew an expired one.
• File a tax return: generally, they must attach a federal income tax return, although there are exceptions for certain situations.
• Prove identity: they must submit documents that establish both their identity and foreign status. A valid passport is the only document that, by itself, proves both requirements.
• Submit the application: they can do so by mail, visit an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center that offers ITIN services, or use an Acceptance Agent.

The IRS recommends submitting the application before the tax return deadline. If the requirements are met, the agency estimates a seven-week turnaround to notify applicants of the result, although during tax season or when the process is handled from abroad, the wait can stretch to nine to 11 weeks.

The update was announced on Nov. 5, 2026, as part of the annual inflation adjustments to nearly 70 tax provisions. The two limits will increase by $100 from the 2026 amounts.

How much the child tax credit will increase in 2027

The official IRS announcement says the maximum credit will rise from $2,200 to $2,300. The refundable portion will increase to $1,800.

The $1,800 is part of the credit, so it is not added on top of the $2,300. And these are maximum amounts, not a guaranteed sum for every family.

What it means when part of it can be received as a refund

The child tax credit can reduce the federal income tax a qualifying taxpayer owes. Its refundable portion is known as the Additional Child Tax Credit.

According to the IRS explanation of the benefit, certain taxpayers may receive a refund when the credit exceeds their tax liability. Eligibility and the amount depend on eligibility requirements and the applicable calculation.

Why the 2027 increase will apply to 2028 returns

Tax year and tax-filing year are different. The new amounts apply to tax year 2027, and those returns are normally filed during 2028.

The IRS clarifies that the announced adjustments will generally apply to returns filed that year. As a result, these new amounts do not apply to tax year 2026 returns filed in 2027.

The increase is part of the annual inflation adjustment. The amount each taxpayer can receive will depend on their situation and the credit requirements.

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced Thursday, Nov. 5 the inflation adjustments for tax year 2027. Among the benefits updated was the Child Tax Credit (CTC).

When will US$1,800 be deposited into eligible applicants’ bank accounts?

The $100 increase will apply both to the total credit, which will reach $2,300, and to its refundable portion, which will rise to $1,800.

This increase will be reflected in income earned during tax year 2027 and will apply to returns filed with the agency in 2028.

For the upcoming tax season, the amounts will remain as follows:

• Child Tax Credit (CTC): $2,200.
• Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC): $1,700.

These are the amounts that can be claimed during the 2027 tax season.

Who can claim this tax credit?

Taxpayers with children under 17 at the end of the tax year who meet the requirements set by the IRS may claim this credit.

For a child to be considered eligible, the following conditions must be met:

• Age: the child must be under 17 at the end of the tax year.
• Relationship: the child must be the taxpayer’s child, stepchild, eligible foster child, sibling, half-sibling or a descendant of any of them.
• Residence: the child must have lived with the taxpayer for more than half the year.
• Support: the child must not have provided more than half of their own support.
• Dependent status: the child must be claimed as a dependent on the tax return.
• Social Security number: both the taxpayer and the child must have a valid Social Security number for work in the United States, issued before the tax return filing deadline.

How should the Additional Child Tax Credit be claimed on Form 1040?

Taxpayers who qualify for the CTC but cannot use the full amount because their federal tax liability is low or zero could be eligible for the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC).

This is the refundable part of the benefit and allows taxpayers to receive money even when the credit is larger than the taxes they owe.

To claim it, they must follow these steps:

• 1. Complete Form 1040: include eligible children and other dependents on the federal tax return.
• 2. Attach Schedule 8812: use this form to calculate the CTC, the ACTC and the credit for other dependents.
• 3. Verify income: to get the ACTC, they must report at least $2,500 in earned income and meet the other eligibility requirements.

Regardless of when someone chooses to file an application, knowing all the information and documents the agency will require to complete the process is essential for anyone planning to begin this application.

Who Can Apply for Social Security Retirement Benefits

First, it is important to note that only the following people are eligible to file an application:

• Be at least 62 years old
• Have worked and paid Social Security taxes for at least 10 years (you need at least 40 credits to claim benefits).

Benefits will be reduced for those who claim before reaching full retirement age and will increase for those who delay filing, with age 70 being when the highest payment can be received.

Information and Documents SSA Requires From Those Who Want to Retire

According to the official information, the following will be requested when filing this application:

• Social Security number (SSN)
• Exact place of birth
• Earnings record verification
• Information on jobs held in the last 5 years (employers’ names, dates of each period, average hours worked and financial information)
• Information on both current and past marriages (SSN and date of birth of spouse or ex-spouse, date of marriage or divorce, exact place where the wedding took place)
• Routing number and bank account number
• First and last name of any child who meets any of the following requirements (17 or younger; between 18 and 19 and attending K-12 school full time; any age if they developed a disability at or before age 21)

“If we need documents or more information, we will contact you. To avoid delays, only send documents if we ask for them,” the agency says.

How to Apply for Social Security Retirement Benefits

There are several ways to complete the process, and one of the most convenient is to start the application online from this link. However, it can also be filed by phone or in person.

Important Information for Anyone Filing This Application

The agency explains that once the application is filed, the future beneficiary will have to choose a month for payments to begin. If approved, the first deposit will generally arrive the month after the one selected.

“After you file the application, you will receive a letter telling you whether your benefits were approved or whether we need more information,” it explains.

The combination of these ingredients releases its aromas during cooking and creates a spicy, citrusy scent that spreads throughout the home. In addition to being an inexpensive alternative, this preparation is simple and makes use of ingredients that are usually thrown away.

What is boiling orange peels with black peppercorns and cloves good for?

This combination is mainly used to fragrance the home. When the ingredients are boiled, the heat releases their aromatic compounds and disperses them through the steam.

Each ingredient adds its own scent:

• Orange peels: release a fresh, citrusy aroma.
• Black pepper: adds a strong, spicy note.
• Cloves: give off a warm, pungent fragrance.

The result is a natural scent that can help mask lingering odors in places like the kitchen or living room.

How do you make the mixture for boiling orange peels with black peppercorns and cloves?

The preparation requires just a few ingredients and does not need anything extra. To make it at home, follow these steps:

• 1. Place the peels of one or two oranges in a pot.
• 2. Add between five and 10 black peppercorns.
• 3. Add between five and eight cloves.
• 4. Add enough water to cover the ingredients.
• 5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat.
• 6. Let it simmer for a few minutes so the aromas can be released.

How long does this trick’s fragrance last?

The scent is strongest while the mixture remains hot and gives off steam. Its intensity depends on the amount of ingredients, cooking time, room size and ventilation.

Once the heat is turned off, the fragrance may remain in the room for a while, though it will gradually fade. There is no guaranteed exact duration.

What precautions should you take when using this homemade trick?

Although it is a simple preparation, a few precautions are needed to avoid accidents:

• Do not leave the pot unattended: keep an eye on it while it is on the burner.
• Watch the water: do not let it evaporate completely, since the pot could overheat.
• Keep it away from children and pets: both the hot pot and the steam can cause burns.
• Avoid breathing in the steam directly: do not bring your face close to the pot while it is boiling.
• Do not use spoiled ingredients: throw out the mixture if there are signs of spoilage or mold.
• Ventilate the room: especially if the scent is too strong or causes discomfort.

Section 46.2-334.01 of the Virginia Code says a second violation, whether for breaking the passenger limit or driving during restricted hours, can lead to a suspension of the driving privilege for up to six months.

The rule also includes exceptions for certain relatives and specific situations, and limits driving between midnight and 4 a.m.

What Section 46.2-334.01 says about how many passengers drivers may carry

Section 46.2-334.01 of the Virginia Code sets restrictions for drivers under 18 who hold a provisional license. Under subsection B, these drivers may not carry more than one passenger under 21 who is not a member of their family or household. The limit is meant to regulate how many passengers can ride in the vehicle during this stage of driving.

The rule also provides special conditions for those who have held their provisional license for more than one year. In those cases, they may carry up to three passengers under 21 when any of these conditions is met:

• They are going to or returning from a school-sponsored activity.
• They are traveling with a licensed driver at least 21 years old, seated in the front passenger seat.
• They are in an emergency situation.

The passenger restriction does not apply to family or household members included in the categories defined by the law itself.

When a driver’s license can be suspended for repeat offenses under this rule

Subsection D of Section 46.2-334.01 says that violating the passenger limits or nighttime driving rules is a traffic violation. However, the permit is not suspended automatically after the first offense because the law allows for an additional penalty if the driver violates either of these provisions again.

Specifically, after a second violation or any later one, the court may suspend the minor’s driving privilege for up to six months. That means the person does not necessarily have to repeat the same behavior; they can also become a repeat offender by violating the rule that bars driving between midnight and 4 a.m. when none of the legal exceptions applies.

What other restrictions apply to minors with a provisional license in Virginia

In addition to limiting the number of passengers, the Virginia Code sets conditions on when drivers under 18 may be on the road. Under subsection C of Section 46.2-334.01, they may not drive between midnight and 4 a.m. unless they are in one of the situations authorized by law.

The exceptions include:

• Traveling to or from their workplace.
• Traveling to or from a supervised activity organized by a school or by a civic, religious or public organization,
• Driving with one of their parents, a person who has legal responsibility for them, or their spouse if the spouse is over 18, as long as that person is seated in the front passenger seat.
• Driving in an emergency, including certain calls for volunteer firefighters and emergency medical personnel.

Both the passenger limits and the nighttime driving restrictions no longer apply once they turn 18.

According to the schedule, the next one will fall this Wednesday, Nov. 11, in observance of Veterans Day, and authorities warn that banks, government offices and some private-sector businesses will remain closed that day.

The history of the holiday the United States observes on Wednesday, Nov. 11

A year after the end of World War I — on Nov. 11, 1919 — the 28th president of the United States, Woodrow Wilson, declared the date Armistice Day to honor those who lost their lives in combat.

Years later, in 1938, the day was declared a legal holiday, and in 1954 its name was changed to Veterans Day to honor all veterans of the nation’s Armed Forces.

On this date, tributes, parades and ceremonies such as the one at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery are held.

“The ceremony begins exactly at 11:00 a.m. with a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns and continues inside the Memorial Amphitheater,” the Department of Veterans Affairs explains.

Confirmed closures for Wednesday, Nov. 11

As with all federal holidays, banks include this date on their official calendars and stop in-person service to the public, but keep ATMs and banking apps running for basic transactions.

Nonessential government offices also close their doors for the day, and Social Security benefit payments that were due Wednesday, Nov. 11, are being sent out today, Tuesday, Nov. 10.

There are also private-sector businesses that observe this holiday, so it will be essential to check in each case.

When the next U.S. holidays fall

At the federal level, Veterans Day is followed on the calendar by Thanksgiving, which is also celebrated nationwide in November on the fourth Thursday, which this year falls on the 26th.

“This is one of the most important holidays for Americans and is considered a day to celebrate with family. That is the time of year when people travel the most in the U.S. to be with their loved ones,” USA.gov explains.

Finally, the last holiday of the year is Christmas. Dec. 24 falls on a Thursday and Dec. 25 on a Friday, so the holiday will create another long weekend.

The closure appears in New York’s official calendar for the 2026-27 school year. The break applies to that day, and classes resume on Thursday, Nov. 12, although some New York students will be dismissed early that day.

Which schools close on Wednesday, Nov. 11

In New York, the official calendar covers the city’s public schools, from programs for 3-year-olds through 12th grade, including kindergarten.

Education officials say families with students in private, parochial, charter, NYCEEC early childhood centers or family child care programs should check their institution’s calendar.

In Los Angeles, the Unified School District calendar (LAUSD) also includes Nov. 11 as a Veterans Day holiday. The information applies to the schools and programs that follow that district calendar.

In Boston, the Boston Public Schools calendar, which covers pre-K, kindergarten and grades 1 through 12, marks the date as a day when school buildings and central offices are closed.

When classes resume and what changes for some New York students

According to the calendars reviewed, classes are set to resume on Thursday, Nov. 12, in all three public systems.

However, in New York that date coincides with parent-teacher conferences for middle schools and District 75 schools. Students at those schools will be dismissed three hours earlier than usual, according to the general calendar.

The city warns that conference dates may vary at individual schools. Families should check their school’s communications to confirm the correct schedule.

The magnate focused on job creation, investment and the development of productive activities as key tools for improving people’s living conditions. From this perspective, state financial aid should not be the only resource for confronting poverty, but should be paired with job opportunities that allow people to achieve greater economic independence.

The debate also extends to the business and academic worlds, where the importance of combining policies that promote productivity and investment with social protection measures is raised. The challenges include:

• Strengthening small businesses
• Creating quality jobs
• Protecting public finances

Carlos Slim’s stance on government subsidies

Carlos Slim said that job creation is the main tool to fight poverty. In his view, this problem is not solved through charity and does not depend exclusively on government subsidies.

During his appearance at the Latin American Democracy Forum, held at the Palace of Mining in Mexico City, Slim acknowledged that he would be willing to give money to help people if that were enough. He even said that if that were all it took, he would do it “with pleasure.” However, he stressed that a lasting solution requires:

1. Creating jobs
2. Investing in infrastructure
3. Improving education and health care services
4. Increasing productivity so people can earn income on a sustained basis

“The only way I see for people to get out of poverty is not through charity, nor through social welfare policies, but through jobs”, he insisted during the event.

With that, the businessman was not proposing to eliminate social assistance programs, but warning that financial aid, on its own, is not enough to solve a structural problem like poverty.

The debate over Mexico’s public policies

Those who agree with Carlos Slim’s stance argue that subsidies can provide a response to urgent needs, but they do not always amount to a lasting solution. That is why they consider it a priority to boost small and midsize business growth, promote formal employment and create conditions that make it easier for more people to enter the labor market.

Under this approach, public policies should be aimed at expanding job opportunities and reducing long-term dependence on state aid.

However, the proposal also draws criticism. Critics warn that getting a job is not always enough to overcome poverty, especially in countries where the following persist:

• Informal employment
• Low wages
• Social gaps

They also point out that certain groups, such as children, older adults and people with illnesses or disabilities, face particular difficulties entering the labor market. In those cases, social protection is essential to guarantee decent living conditions.

Among the different options out there, a mixture made with orange peels and white vinegar stands out for using easy-to-find ingredients and for making it possible to create an all-purpose cleaner. The recipe was shared by the University of Florida and takes just a few steps to prepare.

What mixing orange peels with vinegar is for

The combination of these two ingredients can be used to make a product intended for a range of everyday cleaning tasks.

The idea is to use orange peels, which are usually thrown away, and let them soak in white vinegar for a week to produce a liquid that can then be applied with a spray bottle.

The University of Florida included this formula in its publication on homemade cleaners for the home, prepared by UF/IFAS specialists. The material brings together different options for making cleaning products with accessible ingredients and explains how to use them for household chores.

One of the most practical things about this recipe is that it does not require hard-to-find ingredients or a complicated process. You only need to let it sit for the required time before transferring the mixture to a spray bottle.

How to Make the Homemade Orange and Vinegar Cleaner

To make this all-purpose cleaner, you need two ingredients and a 1-liter jar. The preparation recommended by the university is simple and can be done in just a few minutes.

Ingredients

• Peels from four oranges.
• White vinegar, enough to fill a 1-liter jar.

Step-by-step preparation

1. Place the peels from the four oranges in the jar.
2. Fill the container with white vinegar.
3. Let the mixture sit for a week.
4. After that time, transfer the contents to a spray bottle.

After these steps are completed, the cleaner will be ready to use on different surfaces and for common household tasks.

An important precaution before using it

Although it is a simple preparation, it is worth taking a few precautions before adding it to your cleaning routine.

In this regard, the recommendation is to test the product first on a less visible area of the surface to make sure it does not cause damage or changes.

The numbers bear that out: In 2024 alone, more than 300,000 applications were rejected because of photos that did not meet the requirements. That is why it is worth knowing the rules well before submitting the application.

The official photo requirements

According to the State Department, the passport photo must meet a series of strict requirements. They are:

• 2x2-inch size (about 5x5 centimeters).
• In color, with a white or off-white background, plain and with nothing behind the person.
• Face forward, with a neutral expression or a natural smile, and both eyes open.
• Taken within the last 6 months, so it reflects the person’s current appearance.
• No glasses.
• No shadows on the face or behind it.
• No filters, touch-ups or digital edits.
• No selfies: It must be a front-facing photo taken from an appropriate distance, not a self-portrait.

In addition, hats and head coverings are not allowed, except for religious or medical reasons, and only if the face is fully visible from the forehead to the chin.

Passport applications are rejected when the photo does not meet the requirements

If the image does not meet the requirements, the application may be delayed or rejected outright, and a correct photo will have to be submitted again. In practice, that means losing time and, if a trip is planned, risking missing the deadline. That is why it is important for the photo to be right the first time.

“Don’t get the perfect job because those are hard to find. Just get a job,” he said in an interview with The Diary of a CEO, reported by Fortune in a Oct. 29, 2026, post.

Why he recommends starting even if the job is not ideal

During the conversation with Steven Bartlett, Cuban explained that he often gives that advice to recent college graduates. He also said that once you land a job, it is important to work hard, do the job well and honestly assess your own performance.

To illustrate the point, he cited jobs at McDonald’s and Dairy Queen. In his view, moving up within those companies can help show another employer what you can do, even if running a fast-food location is not the long-term career goal.

What value is there in moving up within a company?

The entrepreneur highlighted the importance of being able to show a record of growth and having strong references. If an employer values the work you have done and wants to keep you, that can become a credential for the next opportunity.

Cuban said that kind of progress can take two or three years. He also acknowledged the frustration of feeling stuck, but advised against letting that feeling take over a person’s life.

An early experience that can open other doors

The advice focuses on what a person can show while working by taking on responsibility and advancing within an organization. In that view, the first job is an opportunity to build a track record.

So taking a job that does not match the ultimate goal does not necessarily mean staying there for an entire career. Cuban’s idea is to use that step to gain experience and present future employers with results that back up your skills.

The calendar was established under Agreement No. 07/07/26, published in the Official Gazette of the Federation (DOF), and includes 185 school days for public and private schools in the National Education System.

With this day off, students will have a four-day long weekend, since there will also be no school activities on Friday, Nov. 13.

Why Mexico will have no classes on Monday, Nov. 16

The suspension on Monday, Nov. 16 appears directly in the official calendar for the 2026-2027 school year. In the version published by the DOF, the date is listed among the teacher work suspension days.

The date marks the observance of the Mexican Revolution, whose official commemoration is moved to the third Monday in November.

Therefore, basic education students will not be required to attend classes that day. The rule applies to preschool, elementary and middle schools, both public and private, that are part of the National Education System.

How the November long weekend falls

According to the school calendar and the administrative activities scheduled for that period, students’ break will be organized as follows:

• Friday, Nov. 13: no classes because of grade reporting and teachers’ administrative duties.
• Saturday, Nov. 14: weekend.
• Sunday, Nov. 15: weekend.
• Monday, Nov. 16: teacher work suspension for the observance of the Mexican Revolution.

Mexico: There will also be no classes on Friday, Nov. 13

There will also be no classes on Friday, Nov. 13 for preschool, elementary and middle school students. That day, teachers will carry out activities related to the first grade reporting period of the school year and administrative duties.

That means that, although students will have the day off, teachers will still have to carry out school and administrative activities under the 2026-2027 school calendar.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered the search in a Sept. 30 memo. In it he cited rapid advances in disruptive technology, closer cooperation among rival powers and ongoing cyberattacks on U.S. defense infrastructure.

Hegseth put Dale Marks, the Pentagon’s assistant secretary for energy, installations and environment, in charge of the project. Marks told the specialized media outlet Breaking Defense he aims to select a site by June 2027, after his team reviews each state’s proposal in detail.

According to Marks, the U.S. hasn’t built a new military base in 40 years. He said the scale of this one makes it closer to a new town than a typical installation: “We talk about this as a base, but this is building a city.”

What will the Next Great American Base look like?

Marks said the base must support 15,000 to 25,000 active-duty service members and their families, which he estimates at roughly 80,000 to 100,000 people in total. That would make it larger than many American cities.

The Pentagon is looking for 100,000 to 250,000 acres, or about 156 to 390 square miles. Marks wrote to state leaders that offers outside that range could still be considered if they are otherwise compelling.

The installation would host units the military is still building. Marks mentioned autonomous drone strike wings, hypersonic units, and brigades armed with directed-energy weapons, which use focused energy such as lasers instead of bullets or missiles, to knock down enemy drones.

A senior defense official said the Pentagon plans to fit missions to the sites states offer, rather than starting with a mission and searching for land. The official added that lessons from drone attacks on U.S. bases in the Middle East will shape how the new installation is defended.

How would the Next Great American Base run on its own nuclear reactors?

States must show the base can operate without help from the outside world. That means small modular reactors, which are compact nuclear plants built from factory-made units, along with hardened microgrids and a closed-loop system that treats and recycles water.

Marks set a specific test. Within its first 24 months, the base has to prove it can sustain 30 straight days of full combat operations while completely cut off from civilian power. If the national grid collapsed, he said, the installation would stay fully operational and “ready to respond.”

The off-grid requirement builds on Fortress America, a separate program launched in September. It is designed to give existing U.S. bases their own power supply, so an attack on the electrical system wouldn’t shut them down.

Marks described Fortress America as the forerunner of the new base. A senior defense official said the relationship would also work in reverse: whatever proves effective at the new site would be applied to existing installations.

How can states bid for the Next Great American Base before Dec. 1?

The competition is aimed at governors and adjutants general, the officers who command each state’s National Guard. Hegseth’s memo urged every one of them to “step up to the plate and bring us their best sales pitch.”

States are expected to propose public-private partnerships to share the cost. Under that model, the Pentagon would cover munitions bunkers, testing grounds, underground command shelters and other combat-related facilities, while private investors would build and run the digital infrastructure.

Marks said nearly everything else is open for negotiation, from housing to the perimeter fence. A community could offer to build schools, share its hospitals or provide other support infrastructure as part of its bid.

Without a location, the Pentagon can’t yet put a price on the project. Marks said he expects the 2028 budget request to include initial funding. A panel will make the final pick, and Marks said the president might take part.

Marks also said he wants the bidding to be as public as possible. His goal is to ease concerns that the administration could favor states led by Republicans over those run by Democrats.

The remains are 15,000 years old and belong to different species that lived at the time. Among the findings are fossils of giant wolves and other prehistoric animals, some of them of astonishing size.

The discovery also offers new clues about what the landscape in that region was like before climate change transformed its environment.

Where the prehistoric cemetery hidden under tar was discovered and how old it is

In 2025, a team of paleontologists from La Brea Tar Pits discovered a new fossil deposit in Talara, a region in northwestern Peru, where ancient natural oil seepage formed asphalt deposits. The remains date to the late Pleistocene and are 15,000 years old, offering a window into the animals that inhabited the area during the last Ice Age. The second excavation was carried out jointly with the Institute of Paleontology at the National University of Piura in 2026.

The site is part of Pampa La Brea, a paleontological site that had already been excavated in the 20th century. In 1958, an expedition led by paleontologist Gordon Edmund recovered more than 27,000 fossil bones and teeth, which are now preserved at the Royal Ontario Museum in Canada.

However, new surveys showed that significant concentrations of remains were still left underground, making it possible to locate another deposit of hundreds of fossils.

What fossils the scientists found: giant wolves and other Ice Age animals

During the most recent excavations, researchers recovered about 300 animal fossils that were trapped in asphalt thousands of years ago. Identified specimens include remains of giant wolves, enormous ground sloths, birds and reptiles. Bones from rodents and bats also turned up, along with remains of large predators that inhabited the area during the Pleistocene.

Talara’s fossil record also includes animals such as giant jaguars, pumas, saber-toothed cats and giant armadillos. The collection is especially important because it includes small species that help reconstruct aspects of the environment that cannot always be inferred from large skeletons.

How the animals got trapped in tar and why their fossils were preserved for 15,000 years

The tar deposits formed when underground oil reached the surface through cracks in the ground. Over time, its lighter components evaporated and left behind a sticky, tar-like substance: natural asphalt.

Animals that wandered onto it could become immobilized, while predators that tried to feed on them also risked getting trapped.

This process allowed numerous animal remains to be covered by asphalt and sediment, where they could be preserved for thousands of years. The fossils provided information about environmental changes in the region. Although Talara is now an extremely arid area, remains of waterfowl, amphibians, and other animals indicate that wetlands and vegetated areas existed during the last Ice Age.

Section 322.2615 of the 2026 Florida Statutes governs this suspension and the right to request a review. It also distinguishes between cases in which an illegal alcohol level is detected and those in which the person refuses to take a legally requested test.

When the six-month suspension applies and when it increases to a year

If the person is driving or has actual physical control of a vehicle with the stated alcohol level, the law provides for a six-month suspension in the first instance.

Section 8(b) says the period increases to a year if the driver’s license had already been suspended under that section for driving with an illegal alcohol level.

What happens to the license and when the suspension begins

The section says the officer must take the license and issue a notice of suspension. The suspension period begins on the date that notice is issued.

If the person qualifies to temporarily keep the driving privilege, the officer must issue a 10-day temporary permit. That document expires at midnight on the 10th day after the notice is issued.

The law also covers cases in which a blood test was done; the results must be sent to the department, which will determine whether the suspension applies.

How long a driver has to request a review

The driver may request a formal or informal review within 10 days after the notice of suspension is issued.

An informal review involves examining the documents submitted by authorities and by the person affected, without requiring officers or witnesses to appear. If a formal review is requested, the department must schedule a hearing within 30 days of receiving the request.

The law makes clear that requesting a review does not, by itself, suspend the measure. As a result of the process, the authority may uphold, modify or invalidate the suspension.

What changes if the person refuses to take the test

Refusing a legally requested breath, blood or urine test carries different time periods:

• One year for the first refusal.
• 18 months if there is a prior suspension for refusing those tests.

Soaking the showerhead for 15 minutes lets you take advantage of vinegar’s acidity to help dissolve limescale buildup and make it easier to remove. The University of Michigan recommends keeping it submerged for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the mineral deposits have loosened.

To carry out the process correctly, it is important to know how to prepare the soak, what to do if the showerhead cannot be removed and how to remove the residue without damaging its components.

What Soaking Your Showerhead in Vinegar for 15 Minutes Does

Over time, the showerhead accumulates mineral deposits from the water, especially when it contains high levels of calcium and magnesium. These residues form a layer of limescale that can clog the small holes where water comes out, disrupt the spray pattern and reduce flow. According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), when hard water is heated, solid calcium carbonate deposits can form and eventually clog pipes and other fixtures.

White vinegar can help remove those buildups thanks to its acidity, which helps dissolve mineral deposits. The University of Michigan, through Michigan Medicine, recommends soaking removable showerheads in white vinegar for 15 or 20 minutes, or until the residue has dissolved.

How to Clean a Showerhead With White Vinegar

To do this, first check whether the showerhead can be removed and whether the manufacturer allows cleaning it with vinegar. If it can be taken off, simply place it in a container with white vinegar, making sure the holes are covered, and let it soak for 15 minutes. If it cannot be removed, you can also use a sturdy plastic bag, fill it with vinegar and secure it around the showerhead so the holes are submerged. The CDC consider this method an alternative for removing visible buildup.

Once the time is up, remove the showerhead from the container or take off the bag and rinse it carefully with clean water to remove any vinegar and loosened deposits. If there is still residue in the small holes, it can be removed with a soft brush, as long as the showerhead material allows it. Before using it again, it is a good idea to make sure it is properly reattached and follow the manufacturer’s maintenance instructions.

Bank of America offers up to $500 for opening a new account

The amount is not fixed, but tiered: it depends on how much money is deposited into the account through direct deposit during the first 90 days after it is opened. The tiers are:

• $100 if you receive $2,000 in qualifying direct deposits.
• $300 if you receive $5,000.
• $500 if you receive $10,000 or more.

So the amount each person gets depends on their income: the higher the total of direct deposits during that period, the larger the bonus.

The key requirement: direct deposit

The bonus is not paid simply for opening the account: the requirement is to receive qualifying direct deposits, typically a paycheck or other recurring income credited electronically, that add up to the required amount within 90 days of opening the account. Without those deposits, you do not get the bonus, even if the account is open.

Which accounts qualify and who can apply

The promotion applies to the opening of certain personal checking accounts at the bank (generally, Advantage Plus Banking and Advantage Relationship Banking accounts).

It is also aimed exclusively at new checking customers: anyone who already has that type of account at the bank does not qualify, and only one bonus is allowed per customer.

How much is the 2027 Social Security COLA?

The 2027 cost-of-living adjustment is 3.6%. That is the percentage by which Social Security retirement, disability and survivors benefits will increase so they do not lose purchasing power to inflation. The increase takes effect with January 2027 payments.

How much more the average retiree will get

In dollar terms, the 3.6% increase means the average retiree’s check will go up by about $75 a month: from around $2,095 to about $2,170 a month. The exact amount varies in each case because it depends on the benefit each person was already receiving: the higher the check, the larger the dollar increase, since the 3.6% is applied to that base amount.

Who will see it first in their bank accounts

Some beneficiaries will see the increase even before 2027 begins. The first are Supplemental Security Income (SSI) beneficiaries, who receive their January payment on Dec. 31, 2026, because Jan. 1 is a holiday.

On that same day, Dec. 31, people who started receiving benefits before May 1997 and those who receive Social Security and SSI at the same time also get paid, since their usual date, the 3rd, falls on a weekend after the holiday. For everyone else, the increase arrives throughout January, depending on birth date.

The January 2027 payment schedule

For beneficiaries who are paid based on their birth date, these are the dates they will see the higher payment:

• Dec. 31, 2026: SSI beneficiaries, those who have received payments since before May 1997, and those who receive Social Security and SSI together.
• Jan. 13, 2027: those born between the 1st and the 10th.
• Jan. 20, 2027: those born between the 11th and the 20th.
• Jan. 27, 2027: those born between the 21st and the 31st.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth tapped Musk on Sept. 30 to run the effort, called Project Meridian: The Future of Warfare. His co-leaders are Anduril Industries co-founder Palmer Luckey and former House Speaker Newt Gingrich. Their findings are due Jan. 28, 2027.

Three government watchdog groups sued the Defense Department on Nov. 2. They argue the panel was created illegally and is filled with executives who could profit from its advice, and they want a federal judge to halt its work.

How will Elon Musk help write the Pentagon’s weapons wish list?

Hegseth’s memo tasks the group with charting where warfare is headed, finding gaps in what the military can do and proposing fixes. A Pentagon spokesperson said the study covers a 10- to 20-year horizon, across every domain from underground to space.

In his announcement, Hegseth said the project is “not about developing new strategies or new policies.” Instead, it will identify the capabilities the military must master. The deliverable is a public report of up to 30 pages, plus classified annexes.

Emil Michael, the Pentagon’s chief technology officer, oversees the project. MITRE, a nonprofit that runs federally funded research centers, manages the day-to-day work. The panel has 21 members, including Oracle executive Safra Catz, and has met at least twice behind closed doors.

Why are watchdogs suing over Elon Musk’s Pentagon role and SpaceX’s $8 billion in contracts?

The plaintiffs are Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), Public Citizen and the Project On Government Oversight (POGO). They say Project Meridian is a federal advisory committee. Under a 1972 law, such panels must meet in public, announce themselves in the Federal Register and keep records.

The suit also targets who sits on the panel. It says 19 of the 21 members come from the private sector. SpaceX’s contracts this year are mostly for building and launching military satellites. Luckey’s company, Anduril, has won about $25 billion in Pentagon contracts, according to the plaintiffs.

The groups want the court to strike down Hegseth’s memo and bar the panel from meeting until it complies with the law. They also want its records made public and the Pentagon blocked from acting on its advice.

The Pentagon said in October that MITRE, not the co-leaders, is responsible for the analysis and recommendations, and that it applies conflict-of-interest safeguards. Filing the suit doesn’t pause the project, so the January deadline stands unless a judge rules otherwise.

Today, Brad Pitt is one of the most famous actors in the world. But when he first arrived in Los Angeles, he took jobs that had nothing to do with acting just to be able to pay the rent and buy some food.

During an appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show in 2019, Pitt confirmed that he once worked as a mascot for El Pollo Loco. He dressed in a yellow feathered chicken suit for the grand opening of one of the chain’s restaurants at Sunset Boulevard and La Brea Avenue in Los Angeles, waving a sign to attract customers.

When DeGeneres asked how he felt about it, his answer was short: “No shame.” He added: “Man’s gotta eat.”

Pitt said he couldn’t remember how much the job paid, but he did remember one thing: he “got flipped off a lot.” DeGeneres joked: “So the bird got the bird?”

From journalism student to Los Angeles

Before trying his luck in Hollywood, Pitt studied journalism at the University of Missouri. He left college just two credits short of his degree and moved to Los Angeles to pursue acting.

To pay his bills, he took several odd jobs. Besides the chicken costume, he moved furniture and spent about two months as a driver for strippers. That last job changed his life: one of the women was taking acting classes with the well-known coach Roy London, and Pitt decided to join, according to Business Insider.

Brad Pitt’s road to fame

Pitt began with small roles on TV shows such as Another World and Growing Pains. His breakthrough came with a short but memorable part in Thelma & Louise in 1991.

He went on to star in films such as A River Runs Through It, Interview With the Vampire, Fight Club, Ocean’s Eleven, Troy, and Mr. & Mrs. Smith.

Two Oscars, and a lesson

In 2014, Pitt won his first Oscar, not as an actor but as a producer of 12 Years a Slave. In 2020, he won his first acting Oscar for Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. More recently, he starred in F1: The Movie, also nominated for the Academy Awards.

His story is a reminder that even the biggest stars started somewhere. As DeGeneres put it after hearing his story, “everybody should start dressed as a chicken outside of a restaurant” if they want a career like his.

To help eliminate them, Maytag recommends in its care guide a method using water and lemon juice. The mixture is heated for two to five minutes, but the appliance must first be cleared of residue.

What to clean before preparing the lemon water

The manufacturer says the controls should be turned off before cleaning begins and the microwave should be cool. For cleaning the interior, it recommends water, mild soap and a cloth or soft sponge.

This first step removes food residue and spills. Then, according to its general cleaning guide, you should wipe it with a cloth dampened with water to remove soap residue.

How to prepare the mixture and how long to heat it

The recommended ratio is 1 cup of water (250 milliliters) and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. The mixture should be placed in a microwave-safe container without a lid.

Then place it in the appliance and heat for two to five minutes.

Maytag also says you can use 1 tablespoon of vinegar instead of lemon juice. These are two alternative options for the mixture; use one or the other, not both.

How to finish cleaning and care for the turntable

Once heating is finished, the general guide says to let it cool before removing the container and dry the inside with a microfiber cloth.

If the turntable also needs washing, wait until it is cool. It also warns that submerging it while hot in water can cause it to crack because of the sudden temperature change. To wash it, it recommends mild soap, warm water and a nonabrasive sponge.

To reduce future splatters, Maytag recommends using a microwave-safe food cover. This helps keep food from hitting the walls and makes cleanup easier.

AHS Business Services filed its protest Nov. 2 with the Government Accountability Office, the congressional watchdog that settles federal contract disputes. Mindboard followed the next day.

The 10-year contract, known as the Marketplace for the Acquisition of Professional Services, or MAPS, has drawn repeated protests since April. Small business teams have until Thursday Nov. 12 to submit proposals.

Which companies can win a share of the Army’s $50 billion contract?

MAPS covers five areas, from engineering and logistics to consulting and IT. In each one, the Army plans to pick 70 companies, a number it can adjust.

Each area has 30 spots for large businesses, half of them for firms that recently outgrew small business status. Small businesses get 25 spots, and 15 go to commercial-sector vendors, companies with little or no recent government work beyond commercial services.

The $50 billion is a ceiling, not a guaranteed payout. Winners earn the right to compete for individual orders over the decade.

What is the small business rule at the center of the Army contract protests?

The fight is over teaming, in which a small business leads a bid with other small firms as subcontractors. Unlike a joint venture, a team doesn’t require creating a new entity.

The Army first banned teams. In August, GAO ruled that the ban violated the Small Business Act, which lets small firms choose between teams and joint ventures.

The Army reopened bidding in October, but only for small business teams competing for small business slots. AHS Business Services and Mindboard want teams also allowed in the commercial-sector vendor pool. A win could force the Army to amend the rules again.

When will the Army decide on small business bids for the $50 billion contract?

GAO generally has 100 days to rule, which puts decisions on the new cases around Feb. 10 and Feb. 11, 2027. Federal law typically bars an agency from awarding a contract while a pre-award protest is pending.

A third protest, from Intelligence Consulting Enterprise Solutions, challenges the contract’s cybersecurity requirements after the Pentagon paused the next phase of its Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification program, which checks that contractors protect sensitive information.

The USCIS guide for new immigrants warns that those visits may not be enough. The question is whether the person still intends to make the United States their permanent home.

Why an annual visit may not be enough

Permanent residents can travel abroad, and short or temporary trips generally do not affect their status.

However, a prolonged absence or other evidence that the person does not intend to keep a permanent home in the United States can lead to a finding that they abandoned residency. The guide says this can also happen with trips lasting between six months and one year.

What USCIS warns about settling in another country

In its guide on the responsibilities of permanent residents, the agency explains that extended absences, especially when they include working or establishing residence abroad, can lead to abandonment of status.

For that reason, returning periodically does not guarantee retention of residency; what matters is whether the stay outside the country is temporary.

What document it allows for extended absences

The M-618 guide says to apply for a reentry permit using Form I-131 before leaving if you expect to stay outside the country for more than 12 months.

That permit can help show the trip is temporary, but it does not guarantee admission upon return.

The provision is known as the Medicaid Estate Recovery Program (MERP) and is set out in federal law. In general, it applies to beneficiaries age 55 or older who received certain medical services, although each state may set additional conditions on the assets subject to recovery.

However, the rules also provide protections for certain family members, such as a surviving spouse and children under 21 or who are blind or disabled.

What Medicaid’s program is that allows a deceased person’s assets to be claimed

Through MERP, state Medicaid programs seek to recover certain medical costs they covered during a person’s lifetime. The provision is set out in Section 1917 of the Social Security Act, codified at 42 U.S.C. 1396p, and allows claims to be filed against the estates of deceased beneficiaries.

According to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), recovery is mandatory when the beneficiary was 55 or older when receiving certain services. The services covered include:

• Nursing home and skilled nursing care.
• Home- and community-based services.
• Hospital and prescription drug costs tied to those services.

States may also expand claims to other Medicaid-covered medical services, within the limits set by federal law.

What happens to the home and assets left by a deceased person

A Medicaid claim can reach assets that are part of a person’s probate estate, including real estate, cash and other assets. That means a family home may be subject to a claim to recover medical costs the program paid during the beneficiary’s lifetime. However, that does not mean the government automatically takes the house because the state must follow the proper procedures, and the claim is subject to the rules governing estate priority and administration.

Federal law requires states to recover assets included in the estate defined by local inheritance laws. But it also lets states broaden that definition to include certain assets that pass directly to family members or heirs, such as jointly owned property, interests in property or assets transferred through certain trusts. Medicaid’s official site warns that each state runs its recovery program under federal rules and its own regulations.

Which heirs are protected and when Medicaid cannot claim their assets

The federal government provides protections for certain family members of a deceased person who received Medicaid. Specifically, states cannot recover from the estate while the beneficiary has any of these surviving relatives:

• A surviving spouse.
• A child under 21.
• A blind or disabled child, regardless of age.

These protections are set out in Section 1917(b)(2) of the Social Security Act. So even if Medicaid paid for certain medical services during the beneficiary’s lifetime, the presence of any of these relatives prevents the state from moving forward with the claim while the protected status remains in place.

States must also have procedures to grant waivers when recovering the assets could cause undue financial hardship for heirs. In this regard, each jurisdiction sets the criteria for evaluating those requests, so not every family automatically qualifies for the exception.

As a result, other relatives, including adult children who do not have a disability covered by federal protections, could be affected by a claim against the estate they expected to inherit.

According to a university profile, Taylor served in the U.S. Army and was a Vietnam combat veteran. He described himself as semi-retired and said he wanted to use his new knowledge to help family and friends with small businesses.

His fourth Emory degree and a distinction he had already earned

The Goizueta Business School master’s degree was his fourth degree from Emory. His previous degrees were in law, earned in 1985, a master’s in litigation in 1986 and another in religion and public life in 2016.

That last degree had already made him the oldest graduate in his class. His academic record also included five graduate degrees from other institutions.

A path that linked the Army, law and community work

An earlier Emory story says Taylor spent 20 years in the Army. Toward the end of that period, in Heidelberg, Germany, he took part in prison visits for English-speaking inmates.

As president of a religious organization in the Army, he worked with inmates to write letters and keep in touch with their families.

He later built a career as a lawyer. His work with young people involved in the criminal justice system also led him to pursue religious training, as he wanted more tools to support them.

The challenge of learning technology and sharing classrooms with other veterans

In the business master’s program, one of his biggest challenges was technology. According to Emory, he had never owned a computer, and his classmates helped him improve his digital skills.

Studying with other veterans was one of the reasons he decided to return. Sharing military experiences made it easier to connect in the classroom.

His goal was to apply what he learned to practical tasks, from drawing up business plans to better understanding the legal requirements for small businesses.

According to WCIV, the local ABC affiliate, the closure is scheduled for February 2027, although the exact date has not yet been announced. The chain has operated at the mall since 1992.

What the special sale will look like before the closure

Part of the inventory will begin moving to the Northwoods Mall store. Products that are not transferred will be included in a sale after Thanksgiving.

No discount percentages or exact start date for that sale have been announced yet.

The official Citadel Mall directory describes the store as offering clothing for men, women and children, as well as home goods.

What will happen to employees and where customers can shop

All employees will be transferred to Northwoods Mall. Signs posted at the store also direct shoppers to that location and to the online store.

Dillard’s official website lists the Northwoods Mall store at 2150 Northwoods Boulevard, North Charleston.

The changes underway at Citadel Mall

The closure comes as the mall is being transformed. In December 2025, the Medical University of South Carolina finalized the purchase of five parcels and nearby properties for $83.5 million.

However, Citadel Mall did not attribute Dillard’s departure to that deal. In a statement, it thanked the store for years of business and outlined plans to expand health care services, add retailers and make improvements to the property.

That is according to NASA’s November skywatching guide. The agency notes that although the phenomenon changes the moon’s appearance, the difference may be subtle for observers.

Why the moon will look bigger and brighter

The explanation lies in its orbit around Earth. The moon’s orbit is slightly oval, so the distance between the two bodies changes: at some times the satellite is closer, and at others, farther away.

On its supermoon page, NASA explains that the phenomenon occurs when the full moon phase coincides with a position near the point of closest approach to our planet, known as perigee.

Where to look to see November’s supermoon

To watch it rise on Nov. 24, NASA recommends looking to the east around sunset.

When it is near the horizon, it could seem even larger. However, the agency distinguishes that impression from the effect of its closeness to Earth: that is the moon illusion, which can also occur with any other full moon.

The change eliminates the option of receiving an automatic extension of up to 540 days while U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) processes certain renewal applications. That means filing the appropriate form no longer guarantees that foreign workers can keep working if their card expires before they receive a new authorization.

Before this change, immigrants who need to keep their work authorization must pay close attention to the EAD renewal deadlines and requirements.

The U.S. has eliminated the automatic work permit extension: What changed under the new rule

The DHS eliminated the automatic extension of up to 540 days of work authorization for certain categories of immigrants seeking to renew their EAD. Before the change, eligible applicants could file the renewal form and continue working legally while USCIS processed the request. However, since Oct. 30, 2025, filing a new application no longer guarantees that automatic extension.

The decision was ratified on Oct. 14, 2026, when DHS published the final rule in the Federal Register. The document confirmed without changes the provision already in effect and established that renewal applications filed on or after Oct. 30, 2025, generally do not receive the previous automatic extension. According to the administration, the goal is to carry out new security checks and verify that each applicant still meets the requirements before granting another work authorization.

So if the permit expires while USCIS has not yet approved the renewal, the worker may have to stop working until receiving a new authorization, unless they have another legal basis to work.

What immigrants need to do to renew their EAD work permit in the United States

Immigrants who need to renew their work permit must file Form I-765 with USCIS and meet the requirements for their immigration category. The agency recommends planning the process ahead of time, submitting documentation that shows the applicant remains eligible and, generally, not filing the application more than 180 days before the document expires.

To complete the renewal, applicants should:

• Check the expiration date: Identify when the current EAD expires and verify the authorization category listed on the card.
• Complete Form I-765: Select the option for a renewal and provide the requested personal and immigration information.
• Attach the required documents: Include a copy of the previous work permit and any additional evidence required for the immigration category.
• Pay the filing fee: Pay the required amount or check whether you qualify for a fee waiver, when allowed.
• Submit the application and track its status: Keep USCIS’s receipt notice and follow the case status until a decision is issued.

It is worth noting that the USCIS receipt serves as proof that the application was filed, but it does not replace the work permit or automatically extend its validity. So if the card expires before the agency approves the renewal, those who depend on that EAD to work must stop working until they have a new authorization, unless they have another legal basis that allows them to continue. If USCIS later approves the filing, they may resume working during the validity period of the new document.

Which immigrants can still get an automatic work permit extension

The change does not apply retroactively to all renewals, since immigrants who properly filed their application before Oct. 30, 2025, and met the conditions under the previous rule may keep the automatic extension of up to 540 days, even if their card expired after that date. To qualify for this protection, they must have filed the renewal before the EAD expired and, among other requirements, requested it under the same work authorization category.

Certain extensions established by law or through specific notices published in the Federal Register also remain in effect. That is the case for some work authorizations tied to Temporary Protected Status (TPS), which may have their own extensions depending on the designation and the rules that apply to each country.

According to the agency’s official information, the cost-of-living adjustment, known as COLA, will be 3.6%. For Social Security beneficiaries, the increase will begin to show up in payments received in January 2027; for SSI, the end-of-December deposit will apply.

Who will get the increase before the end of 2026

The first group to be paid consists of SSI beneficiaries. The SSA estimates that the increased payments under this program will reach about 7.3 million people.

The agency distinguishes that schedule from the one for Social Security benefits, whose increased payments will begin in January. It also notes that some people receive both Social Security and SSI.

Why the January payment will be made on Dec. 31

The SSA’s explanation of COLA says the usual SSI payment date is the first day of the month. Since Jan. 1 is a holiday, the January payment is made at the end of December of the previous year.

That is why the Dec. 31, 2026, deposit corresponds to January 2027. It is that month’s payment moved up by the calendar, with the new adjustment included.

What the 3.6% increase means and how the new amount will be announced

COLA is the annual cost-of-living adjustment. It is calculated based on changes in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W), compiled by the Labor Department.

To find out the individual amount, the SSA will mail adjustment notices in December to those who have not chosen to receive them only electronically.

To do this cleaning, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Herkimer publishes a do-it-yourself method that starts with a paste of baking soda and water. The method includes a resting period and a follow-up cleaning to loosen residue.

What ingredients and tools are needed to clean the oven

Cornell’s recommended ratio is half a cup of baking soda and two or three tablespoons of water. Mix both ingredients until you get a paste that can be spread over the surfaces.

To complete the process, you’ll also need gloves, a damp cloth and a synthetic sponge moistened with vinegar, or a plastic spatula. The vinegar is used when removing the mixture and during the final cleaning.

How to apply the paste and which parts should be left clear

Before starting, remove everything from inside the oven and protect the floor with paper or old towels. The manufacturer Maytag, which also describes cleaning with baking soda and water, says the oven must be empty and cold.

Once prepared, spread the paste over the inside. Cornell says it should be kept away from the heating elements in electric ovens and the gas inlet in gas ovens.

How long to let the mixture sit, depending on the dirt

With the paste applied, Cornell recommends closing the oven and letting it sit. The time can range from 30 minutes to 10 or 12 hours, or overnight, depending on how much cleaning is needed.

Once that time has passed, work on the stuck-on residue and remove the mixture.

How to remove the paste and finish cleaning

After the resting period, put on the gloves and use the synthetic sponge moistened with vinegar or the plastic spatula to loosen the grime.

Then wipe with a damp cloth to remove the residue. If the paste has dried, Cornell says to spray it with vinegar to soften it and make it easier to remove.

Once the mixture and the grime have been removed, the publication recommends finishing with a vinegar application and drying.

But Robin Williams made sure that would not happen to him, at least not for a long time. According to his trust, a legal document revealed in 2015 as part of a family dispute over his personal belongings, the actor transferred the rights to his name, signature, photograph, and likeness to the Windfall Foundation, a charitable organization set up by his lawyers.

An image restriction that lasts until 2039

The trust restricts the use of his image for 25 years after his death. Williams died on August 11, 2014, which means there can be no authorized advertisements featuring him until at least August 11, 2039, according to The Hollywood Reporter. The provision also blocks anyone from creating a hologram of the comedian or digitally inserting him into a new film.

Experts called the move unusual. “I haven’t seen that before. I’ve seen restrictions on the types of uses, such as no Coke commercials, for example, but not like this,” Laura Zwicker, an estate planning attorney at Greenberg Glusker, told The Hollywood Reporter.

California law already secures a person’s right to control the commercial use of their image for up to 70 years after death, but Williams added another layer of protection.

Robin Williams’ trust decision also brought tax benefits

The move may also have had a financial reason. At the time, the estate of Michael Jackson was fighting the IRS, which claimed it owed more than $500 million in taxes on the value of the singer’s image rights.

By placing his image rights in a charitable foundation, Williams may have limited his family’s tax bill, according to legal experts consulted by The Hollywood Reporter. If the foundation ever loses its tax-exempt status, the trust requires the rights to go to other charities, such as Doctors Without Borders or Make-A-Wish.

More than a decade later, the decision looks ahead of its time. As artificial intelligence makes it easier to recreate the voices and faces of actors who have died, stars will have to take difficult legal decisions to keep their personal image safe after their death.

According to AccuWeather, there will be several rounds of rain during the week, with breaks in between.

Where the heaviest rain is expected

Through Saturday, Nov. 14, parts of western Washington and the British Columbia coast could see more than 305 millimeters of rain.

In some spots, the heaviest downpours could dump 25 to 51 millimeters an hour, enough to overwhelm drainage systems, especially where leaves are clogging them.

Why the danger will increase with each storm

Saturated ground will increase runoff and rise in streams and rivers. The risk of landslides will also rise, especially in areas burned by wildfires.

The strongest storm is expected to reach Vancouver Island on Wednesday, Nov. 11. After that, the rain could spread into Oregon and northern California.

What problems drivers could face

The winds could cause power outages and make it harder for trucks and RVs to travel.

The heaviest snowfall would be concentrated in the mountains of British Columbia. In Washington’s Cascades and Olympics, it would generally be limited to the highest elevations.

The restrictions are intended to steer food assistance toward more nutritious products and reduce the purchase of foods with little nutritional value.

Which products are banned when paying with an EBT card?

Restrictions vary by state, but they mainly cover sugary drinks, sodas, energy drinks and candy.

• South Carolina: soda, sweetened drinks, energy drinks and candy or sweets.
• Montana: high-sugar drinks, energy drinks, candy and prepared desserts.
• North Dakota: sugary drinks, energy drinks and candy.
• Virginia: sweetened drinks.

Why are these restrictions being applied to EBT cards in South Carolina, Montana, North Dakota and Virginia?

The measure stems from an initiative by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to change which products can be bought with SNAP benefits. The agency is promoting these restrictions through special waivers that allow states to exclude foods and drinks it considers to have low nutritional value, such as soda and candy.

The official goal is to promote healthier eating among beneficiaries and direct public funds toward options with greater nutritional value. The initiative is part of changes pushed by the Trump administration in the food assistance program.

What other states have restrictions on buying junk food?

In addition to South Carolina, Montana, North Dakota and Virginia, eight other states already have restrictions on purchases made with EBT cards.

• Arkansas: starting July 1, 2026.
• Florida: starting April 20, 2026.
• Idaho: starting February 15, 2026.
• Indiana: starting January 1, 2026.
• Louisiana: starting February 18, 2026.
• Oklahoma: starting February 15, 2026.
• Texas: starting April 1, 2026.
• Utah: starting January 1, 2026.

The University of Georgia textile care products guide includes it among the absorbent substances used to remove stains, especially grease and oil. The process involves applying it to the affected area and removing it once it has absorbed the substance.

How to apply cornstarch to an oil stain

The university explains that the absorbent material is spread over the stained area and left to sit. As it picks up the grease or oil, the powder forms clumps or takes on a sticky consistency.

When that happens, it should be removed by shaking or brushing it off. If grease remains, the guide says to repeat the process until most of the stain has been removed.

The publication does not specify an amount or a fixed waiting time. The sign to remove the absorbent is the change in consistency it shows as it picks up the oil.

How to continue cleaning after removing the absorbent agent

The next cleaning step should be tailored to the fabric and the source of the stain. In its guide on greasy foods, the University of Georgia recommends using a prewash stain remover followed by laundering for garments stained with lard, margarine or mayonnaise.

It also describes, as one option for lard and margarine stains, applying detergent to the area after wetting it before washing. These instructions apply to the foods listed and should follow the care requirements of the fabric.

What to check before treating the garment

Before trying to remove a stain, the institution recommends reading the care label and ruling out any products or methods that are prohibited for that fabric.

It also says each cleaning agent should first be tested on a hidden area to make sure it does not affect the color. The treatment should be chosen based on the garment, without assuming the same method works for every fabric.

The change is tied to an important date on the U.S. calendar that will affect the agency’s payment schedule. For that reason, not all retirees will receive their benefit on the same day, and it will be necessary to pay attention to the dates set by the SSA.

The advance will be applied automatically, but there is one condition that determines who can collect it on Tuesday, Nov. 10.

Who will be paid on Tuesday, Nov. 10, and why the deposit is being sent early

The SSA has changed the November 2026 payment schedule because of Veterans Day, which is observed on Wednesday, Nov. 11. For that reason, beneficiaries who normally receive their retirement payment on the second Wednesday of each month will be paid one day earlier, on Tuesday, Nov. 10, since the agency sends the money on the previous business day.

The advance applies to those who began receiving Social Security benefits after April 30, 1997.

Which retirees will receive Social Security on Nov. 10

The deposit on Tuesday, Nov. 10, is for retirees whose date of birth falls between the 1st and 10th of any month, as long as they are part of the group of beneficiaries who are paid on the Wednesday schedule. This arrangement also applies to other Social Security beneficiaries, such as those receiving disability or survivor benefits, based on the birth date of the person whose work record determines the benefit.

The other groups will keep their usual November dates:

• Beneficiaries born between the 11th and the 20th: will be paid on Wednesday, Nov. 18.
• Beneficiaries born between the 21st and the 31st: will receive their deposit on Wednesday, Nov. 25.

However, people who began collecting benefits before May 1, 1997, or who receive both Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI), follow a different payment schedule and will be paid on Tuesday, Nov. 3.

Do retirees need to take any action to receive the early payment?

No. Beneficiaries do not need to fill out forms, submit applications or contact the SSA to receive the money on Tuesday, Nov. 10. The retirement payment is applied automatically to people in that calendar group, and the deposit is credited through the same payment method they normally use, whether by direct deposit or the method on file with the agency.

If the money does not show up in the bank account on the expected date, the SSA recommends waiting an additional three business days before contacting the agency to report the issue.

The final price was about $5 million less than the $20.25 million she originally asked when she put the home on the market in March.

Jenner bought the property in late 2016 for $12.05 million, when she was just 19 years old. It was one of three homes she bought in Hidden Hills over 18 months. At 17, she had paid $2.7 million for her first house there and later bought another for $6 million, but she sold both within about a year.

The mansion was the only one she kept, and it became her main home and the place where she raised her children, Stormi and Aire. She sold it for about $3.25 million more than she paid, before taxes, fees, and renovation costs.

Two price cuts before the final sale

The road to the sale was not easy. One month after listing it, Jenner cut the price by $2.3 million to $17.99 million. The home went under contract in early September and finally sold for about $2.7 million less than that reduced price.

Hidden Hills isn’t the only property Jenner has put on the market. In December 2025, she listed her concrete mansion in Holmby Hills, which she bought in 2020 for $36.5 million, for $48 million. She later cut the price to $38.5 million, according to The Real Deal.

Inside the for-sale mansion

The house covers more than 13,000 square feet on a private 1.4-acre lot. It has eight bedrooms, a private theater, a game room with a bar, a gym, a massage room, and an office with a fireplace.

Outside, there is a pool and spa, an outdoor kitchen, a fire pit lounge, and a six-car garage. It also includes a guest suite with its own entrance and kitchenette.

Kylie Jenner’s new “dream home”

Jenner isn’t leaving Hidden Hills, though. In 2020, she bought a five-acre lot there for $15 million, where she is building what she calls her “dream Italian home.” According to planning documents, it will have about 18,000 square feet, a 12-car garage, a guesthouse, and a sports court.

“I feel like I’ve been working on this for so long, and I’m just ready for it to be done and to move in,” she said in a YouTube video in her own channel uploaded in September.

The new amounts will begin applying to income earned in 2027 and will be reflected in tax returns filed in 2028.

How much is the Child Tax Credit increasing to, according to the IRS?

The CTC will rise to US$2,300 for each eligible child in tax year 2027. This is an increase of US$100 from the current maximum of US$2,200 set for 2026.

In addition, the refundable portion of the benefit, the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) will also increase by US$100 and will reach US$1,800 per eligible child.

When do these Child Tax Credit increases take effect?

The new amounts will take effect on Jan. 1, 2027 and will apply to income earned during that tax year.

Families will therefore be able to claim the new amounts when they file their federal tax returns in 2028 for tax year 2027.

What are the current income limits to claim the Child Tax Credit?

The IRS is keeping the income thresholds that determine who can claim the full Child Tax Credit. The limits are:

• $200,000 a year: for single filers and other taxpayers who do not file jointly.
• $400,000 a year: for married couples filing jointly.

Families above these income levels can still qualify for a partial credit. The benefit begins to phase out when modified adjusted gross income exceeds the set thresholds.

Section 311 of the SSA handbook says that, in addition to age and the length of the marriage, current marital status and eligibility for one’s own benefits are also reviewed, and an application must be filed.

What requirements divorced people must meet to apply for the benefit?

Applicants must be at least 62, not currently married, and have been legally married to the former worker for a minimum of 10 years before the divorce became final. The requirement refers to the length of the marriage, not just the time living together.

They also cannot be entitled to their own retirement or disability benefit if its base amount is equal to or greater than half of the base amount of the former spouse’s benefit. That comparison is part of the conditions for qualifying as a divorced spouse.

As a general rule, the former worker whose record is being used must be entitled to retirement or disability benefits. However, the SSA provides an alternative when the former spouse has not yet applied for benefits but is eligible to retire.

What requirements apply if the former spouse has not yet applied for retirement benefits?

Section 311 allows independent access if the former spouse is 62 or older and has earned the required credits, even if they have not yet applied for benefits.

In that case, the person applying must meet the previous conditions and have been divorced for at least two continuous years. That additional period applies to that specific situation; it is not listed as a general requirement in all cases.

How much can you collect based on a former spouse’s work record?

The benefit can be as much as 50% of the amount the former spouse would receive at full retirement age. However, someone who applies at 62 may receive a smaller percentage because they begin collecting before their own full retirement age.

If the applicant is also entitled to a retirement benefit of their own, they do not receive both full benefits. The SSA reviews both entitlements to determine the total amount due.

The closure appears on New York’s official 2026-27 school year calendar. Classes are suspended that day, and school resumes on Thursday, Nov. 12, although some New York students will have an early dismissal that day.

Which schools are closed on Wednesday, Nov. 11

In New York, the official calendar covers city public schools from programs for 3-year-olds through 12th grade, including kindergarten.

The education department says families with students in private, parochial, charter, NYCEEC early childhood centers or family child care programs should check their school’s calendar.

In Los Angeles, the Unified School District calendar (LAUSD) also lists Nov. 11 as a Veterans Day holiday. The information applies to schools and programs that follow that district calendar.

In Boston, the Boston Public Schools calendar, which covers pre-K, kindergarten and grades 1 through 12, marks the date as a day when school buildings and central offices are closed.

When classes resume and what changes for some New York students

According to the calendars reviewed, classes are set to resume on Thursday, Nov. 12, in all three public systems.

However, in New York, that date coincides with parent-teacher conferences for middle schools and District 75 schools. Students at those schools will be dismissed three hours earlier than usual, according to the general calendar.

The city warns that conference dates may vary at individual schools. Families should check communications from their school to confirm the schedule.

However, they must prove their identity, provide tax documentation, and meet the identification and verification requirements the bank requires.

What documents must foreigners present to open a Bank of America account, and what requirements must they meet?

According to Bank of America, nonresident foreigners (NRA) must present two valid forms of identification, one primary and one secondary:

Primary identification:

• Foreign passport, with or without a U.S. visa.
• U.S. permanent resident card (Green Card).
• Employment authorization document with photo.

Secondary identification:

• Foreign or U.S. driver’s license with photo.
• International Visa or Mastercard debit or credit card.
• Credit card from a nationally recognized commercial company.
• U.S. State Department diplomatic ID.
• Mexican voter ID card with photo.

In addition, they must also provide:

• A physical address in their country of residence.
• A mailing address in the United States.
• Tax identification number, if applicable.

What other requirements must foreigners meet to open a Bank of America account?

The bank sets different requirements depending on the applicant’s immigration status:

• Nonresident foreigners: must provide a physical address abroad and a mailing address in the United States.
• Resident foreigners: must prove a physical address in the United States.
• Citizens of countries subject to U.S. economic or financial sanctions: must present documentation showing legal residency in the United States.

In addition, other conditions must be met:

• Not be U.S. citizens.
• Have a physical address where they live.

How do foreigners open a Bank of America account?

The process outlined by the bank has three steps:

• 1. Check eligibility requirements: confirm that you have a physical address and meet the conditions for your immigration category.
• 2. Gather the documents: prepare the two valid IDs, the required addresses and the tax identification number, if applicable.
• 3. Schedule an in-person appointment: book a time at a Bank of America financial center and go with all the documents to meet with a bank representative.

What sets MALET apart is that it allows mortar rounds to be adapted so they can be launched from drones. In this context, the Army wants to make the most of its arsenal and expand its possible uses.

How does the new U.S. military technology work?

According to the Army’s official statement, MALET (by its English name Munittions Air-dropped Lethal Effects Tool) is a detachable conversion accessory designed to allow conventional mortar rounds to be launched from an unmanned aircraft.

This advance addresses a major problem the Army has faced with this type of weapon, since these rounds are designed to be fired from a tube mounted on the ground. It will make it possible to use resources already on hand instead of buying rounds specially made for drones.

For this system to work properly, two conditions must be met:

• On the one hand, the round must have aerodynamic stability, meaning it must remain stable during its fall.
• On the other hand, it needs a mechanism that allows it to complete its explosive function when released from the air.

Initially, two mortar sizes can be transported and deployed:

• 60 mm mortars.
• 81 mm mortars.

How will this benefit the U.S. Army?

If the project continues to move forward, the Army will benefit in four ways that are highly relevant in the context of the arms race:

1. It allows the Army to use munitions it already has in storage.

2. The same munition can retain its conventional use or be adapted for air launch.

3. It expands the weapons options that unmanned aircraft can carry.

4. The Army is seeking to hand off development to companies to make manufacturing and later distribution easier.

However, several stages still need to be completed. According to the official statement from the U.S. Army, the plan is to distribute the tool so soldiers can test it and give feedback, as well as continue validating its capabilities and improving the design, and apply the MALET architecture to other types of devices.

Who gets retirement payments first in November 2026

The first deposit will arrive on Tuesday, Nov. 10, and will go to beneficiaries whose birthdays fall between the 1st and 10th of any month and who began receiving benefits after April 30, 1997.

The early payment is due to Veterans Day, observed Wednesday, Nov. 11, a federal holiday that changes the usual distribution date.

What are the other two retirement payment dates in November?

The SSA’s official schedule sets out two other payment dates for beneficiaries who do not get paid on Tuesday, Nov. 10:

• Wednesday, Nov. 18: people born between the 11th and 20th.
• Wednesday, Nov. 25: people born between the 21st and 31st.

What to do if the retirement deposit does not arrive on time

The SSA recommends: “If you do not receive your payment on the expected date, please wait three additional mailing days before contacting Social Security”.

Who does not receive retirement payments based on their birth date

People who were receiving Social Security benefits before May 1997 and those who receive Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) at the same time follow a different schedule.

According to the SSA, Social Security was paid on Tuesday, Nov. 3, and SSI was paid last Friday, Oct. 30, since Nov. 1 fell on a Sunday.

What Rubbing Lemon Peel With Salt Is Good For

The lemon peel-and-salt mixture is mainly used to clean and restore the shine to copper and brass items that have become dull or dark over time: pots, pans, pitchers, faucets, and decorations.

It also helps remove stains and polish stainless steel items, make faucets gleam, clean and deodorize wooden cutting boards, leaving behind a fresh scent as well. In short, it is a multipurpose homemade cleaner for metals and durable surfaces.

The trick does not just cover up dirt: it attacks it in two ways at once. The lemon peel provides citric acid, a mild acid that dissolves the dull layer of oxidation that forms on copper and brass (that faded or greenish tint) and cuts through grease.

Salt, meanwhile, acts as a mild abrasive: its grains help scrub away and lift off dirt and the loosened oxidation without being so harsh that it scratches the metal. Together, the acid and the abrasive do the work of a descaler and a sponge, but with natural ingredients.

Step by step: How to make the mixture at home

The process is very simple:

• Take half a lemon peel (or half a lemon with the pulp still attached, which adds more juice).
• Sprinkle coarse or fine salt directly on the inside of the peel, or on the surface to be cleaned.
• Rub the peel firmly over the copper, brass, steel, or cutting board. The salt acts as the abrasive, and the lemon juice as the descaler.
• Focus on the dirtiest spots; you will see the metal regain its shine.
• Rinse well with water to remove any remaining acid and salt, and dry with a soft cloth to avoid new marks.

Why It’s Recommended

Beyond the results, the appeal is twofold. On the one hand, it is cheap and eco-friendly: it makes use of a leftover — the peel that would otherwise be thrown away — and a very inexpensive product like salt, instead of buying metal polish.

On the other hand, it is gentler on pieces than many strong industrial abrasives, which can scratch or wear them down. It also leaves behind a pleasant citrus scent and avoids spraying chemicals in areas where food is handled, such as the kitchen.

According to the University of Maryland Extension, there is a home trick that can be used to keep this pest under control.

To try it, you only need a glass jar, apple cider vinegar and dish soap.

Why people say you should put a glass jar with vinegar and dish soap in the kitchen

This trick is recommended to keep fruit flies under control, a type of brown or black insect that usually measures about 3 millimeters long and, as the name suggests, is drawn to overripe fruits and vegetables as well as fermenting foods.

Other foods that can attract this type of tiny fly include wine, beer, fruit juice and vinegar.

For that very reason, the institution’s advice is to make a homemade trap by covering the top of a glass jar filled with vinegar and a drop of dish soap. The plastic wrap should be secured with a rubber band around the rim, and then a small hole should be made in the plastic. This will let the flies get into the homemade trap, but not get out.

The vinegar attracts them, while the dish soap makes it harder for the flies to escape once they land on the surface.

Other tips to keep fruit flies under control

In addition to the jar with vinegar and dish soap, the institution recommends:

• Keeping spaces clean
• Eliminating food sources and breeding grounds for larvae
• Rinsing and draining any bottles or cans intended for recycling very well
• Draining and washing rags, since they can retain food residue and moisture.

According to AccuWeather, a slow-moving storm is bringing rain and storms from Saturday night through Monday morning.

Which areas face the highest flood risk?

The risk could be highest from the areas around San Antonio and Laredo to Corpus Christi, extending south to Brownsville, where heavier rain is expected.

Isolated flooding could also occur in southwest Texas. In parts of the Rio Grande, from Big Bend to the coast, several hours of steady rain are possible.

How much rain could fall, and what should drivers watch for?

The agency expects 1 to 4 inches of rain to fall in the middle and lower Rio Grande Valley during the event. In isolated spots, totals could reach 10 inches, according to its localized maximum estimate, known as Local StormMax.

Rain will not be equally intense everywhere. Austin and Houston would be near the northern edge of the rain area, with some downpours possible.

Because of the risk of flooding, officials advise against driving through water-covered roads. Water levels can continue to rise and, even if it is not visible, the roadway may already be damaged.

The National Weather Service (NWS) updated its warnings map and said the affected areas are in three states. The official report includes sections of Florida, Iowa and Arizona, where flooding could affect roads, farmland and residential areas.

Which U.S. states are under flood warnings?

In Florida, the warnings cover areas near the St. Johns and Peace rivers, and rising water could affect communities close to the riverbanks and cause flooding in low-lying areas. The counties mentioned include:

• Seminole.
• Brevard.
• Lake.
• Volusia.
• DeSoto.

In Iowa, the alerts include sections of the Iowa River near Marengo and the North Skunk River near Sigourney. Flooding poses a risk to farmland, rural roads and property located near the waterways.

In Arizona, the warnings are tied to water releases from Tempe Town Lake and Granite Reef Dam. The affected areas include zones near the Salt and Gila rivers, where higher water levels could affect crossings and low-lying roads.

What recommendations did the National Weather Service issue?

The NWS recommends avoiding flooded areas and not attempting to cross streets, highways or roads covered by water. Even when the water does not appear deep, a current can sweep away vehicles and put occupants at risk.

As a preventive measure, officials advise:

• Do not drive on flooded roads.
• Respect barricades and road closures.
• Stay away from swollen rivers and streams.
• Avoid recreational activities near affected waterways.
• Check official updates before traveling.

When that happens, authorities can correct the passport at no cost if the DS-5504 Form is submitted and all the required steps to file the report are completed.

DS-5504 Form: Who Must File It After Getting a Passport

According to the authorities, anyone who wants to correct an information or printing error in a passport must submit the DS-5504 Form.

“An information error may include a problem with your name, sex or place of birth. A printing error may include discoloration, crooked printing or missing information on the biographical page,” it says.

If the passport is still valid, the error is corrected at no cost.

If you have changed your address, there is no need to update the document.

What Must Be Submitted With the DS-5504 Form

The official instructions are to mail the following documents:

• DS-5504 Form
• The current passport with the error
• A color passport photo
• Proof of the error, such as a birth certificate showing the correct spelling of the personal information entered incorrectly

Other Cases in Which the DS-5504 Form Must Be Submitted

Those who have legally changed their name within a year after the passport was issued must submit:

• DS-5504 Form
• The most recent U.S. passport
• A document that can certify the name change (such as a marriage certificate)
• A passport photo

Even though this is not an error in this case, the service is still free.

If more than a year has passed before filing, the official instructions are to check whether you are eligible to renew by mail or whether you need to apply for a passport in person.

Important Information About the DS-5504 Form

Authorities specify that when submitting the DS-5504 Form, it is important first to make sure it is signed and dated, since applications submitted without these requirements will not be processed and will be returned.

How Long the New Passport Will Be Valid

This will depend directly on when the claim is filed. If the error is reported within a year of when the passport was issued, the new document will be valid for 10 years.

However, for those who wait more than 365 days, a replacement will be issued with an expiration date that matches the passport that was sent in for correction.

To keep them clean, there is a home remedy that involves spraying them with a mixture of white vinegar and water. This method is inexpensive and easy to use, but there are some materials on which it should be avoided.

What is spraying diluted vinegar on door handles at home for?

Spraying a mixture of white vinegar and water on door handles helps remove dirt, grease and some residue that build up from frequent hand contact.

It is recommended for cleaning routines because it does not take much time and is a mixture that can be used on several occasions.

How does this solution work?

White vinegar contains acetic acid, which helps loosen certain residue and dirt buildup. When diluted with water, it creates a solution that can be used to clean some household surfaces.

To apply it, you can pour the mixture into a spray bottle and spray a small amount onto a clean cloth. Then, gently scrub the door handle and dry it with another cloth.

It is recommended to avoid it on aluminum, copper, bronze and uncoated iron door handles.

How often is it recommended to do it?

It is recommended to repeat the cleaning once or twice a week, especially in homes with a steady flow of people or door handles that are highly exposed to outdoor contact.

The federal tax credit is intended for low- and moderate-income workers and can reduce the amount of federal income tax owed or increase a taxpayer’s refund. Its maximum value varies according to the number of qualifying children, with households supporting two or more children eligible for substantially higher amounts.

The credit applies to income earned throughout 2026, but taxpayers will have to file their federal income tax returns in 2027 to claim it. The IRS has already established the maximum amounts and income limits that will determine who qualifies.

Who qualifies for the IRS $4,427 tax credit?

The EITC is not exclusively available to parents with children. Workers without qualifying children may also receive a smaller benefit if they meet the program’s requirements.

According to the IRS, applicants must generally:

• Have earned income from employment, self-employment or another qualifying source.
• Have a valid Social Security number (SSN) issued by the due date of their tax return, including extensions.
• Be a U.S. citizen or resident alien throughout the tax year.
• Have investment income below the applicable limit.
• Not file Form 2555, which is used to report foreign earned income.

The IRS also establishes special rules for certain taxpayers, including married individuals who are separated from their spouses and do not file joint returns.

Workers without qualifying children must meet additional conditions. They must generally be between 25 and 64 years old at the end of the tax year, have lived in the United States for more than half of 2026, and not be claimed as another taxpayer’s dependent or qualifying child.

How much can the IRS pay through the EITC in 2026?

The maximum benefit depends on the number of qualifying children included in the tax return. For the 2026 tax year, the IRS established the following amounts:

These are maximum credits, not guaranteed payments. The final amount depends on the taxpayer’s earned income, adjusted gross income (AGI), filing status and family circumstances.

The income limits also vary according to the number of qualifying children and filing status. For taxpayers with one qualifying child, the credit is completely phased out once earned income or adjusted gross income reaches $51,593 for most filing statuses or $58,863 for married couples filing jointly.

For households with two qualifying children, those limits increase to $58,629 and $65,899, respectively. For taxpayers with three or more qualifying children, they reach $62,974 and $70,244.

Workers without qualifying children have lower limits: $19,540 for most filing statuses and $26,820 for married couples filing jointly.

The IRS also established a maximum investment income threshold of $12,200 for 2026. Taxpayers whose applicable investment income exceeds that amount cannot claim the EITC.

How to claim the Earned Income Tax Credit in 2027

Eligible taxpayers must file a federal income tax return to receive the EITC, even if their income is below the threshold that would otherwise require them to file.

An important change applies beginning with the 2026 tax year: the IRS requires taxpayers claiming the EITC to complete Schedule 3-A, Federal Public Benefit, in addition to their applicable tax return.

The agency recommends using its EITC Assistant, an online tool that helps taxpayers determine whether they qualify and estimate the amount of the credit they could receive.

The IRS also offers free tax preparation assistance through certified volunteers and free electronic filing options for eligible taxpayers.

The schedule calls for 185 instructional days for preschool, elementary and middle school across Mexico’s 32 states.

According to the calendar, Friday, Dec. 18 will be the last day of classes before winter break. School activities will be suspended over the year-end recess, and students must return to class in January, according to the dates set by the ministry.

When do classes end in December and when do students return in January?

The federal calendar says winter break will begin on Monday, Dec. 21, 2026, and run through Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2027.

During this period, basic education students will not have regular school activities.

Classes are scheduled to resume on Thursday, Jan. 7, 2027. Wednesday, Jan. 6, Three Kings Day, will also be a day off, according to SEP’s schedule.

What other days will there be no classes before winter break?

Before the December break, families should take into account other school closures scheduled in the calendar. The nearest dates include:

• Friday, Nov. 13: school closure for first-term grade reporting.
• Monday, Nov. 16: holiday for the Mexican Revolution. Along with Friday, Nov. 13, it will create a four-day long weekend. Classes will resume on Tuesday, Nov. 17.
• Friday, Nov. 27: School Technical Council (CTE) meeting, no classes for students.
• Nov. 23-26: first-term report cards are issued, with no suspension of school activities.
• Friday, Jan. 29, 2027: School Technical Council meeting.
• Monday, Feb. 1: holiday for Constitution Day.

The calendar also includes other closures for School Technical Council meetings, grade reporting and official commemorations over the following months.

Although SEP’s calendar applies nationwide to basic education schools in the 32 states, state education authorities may make local adjustments.

The change affects companies that use this form to hire workers under various immigration categories, including H-1B, H-2B, L-1 and O-1, among others. The new version was published on Sept. 9, 2026, and will permanently replace the previous edition, dated Feb. 27 of the same year.

The update also comes amid new Department of Homeland Security (DHS) rules on additional fees for certain employers filing H-1B and L-1 petitions. Payment requirements depend on the size of the workforce and the share of foreign workers with those immigration statuses.

What USCIS Form I-129 is and which work visas it can be used to request

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has published a new edition of Form I-129, known as Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker. This is the form U.S. employers must file to request that a foreign worker be allowed to enter the country temporarily to perform work or receive training, and it can also be used to seek certain extensions of stay and changes of immigration status.

According to USCIS, the form is used to process several work visa categories, including H-1B, for professionals in specialty occupations; H-2A, for temporary agricultural workers; H-2B, for temporary nonagricultural workers; L-1, for intracompany transferees; O-1, for people with extraordinary ability; and P-1, for certain athletes and entertainment groups. It also covers H-3, O-2, P-2, P-3, Q-1 and R-1 categories, among other classification and change-of-status requests.

The company or employer seeking to hire the worker, not the foreign national, is responsible for filing. For that reason, the updated form means companies and their representatives will need to check which version they are using before sending an immigration petition to the agency.

USCIS sets Nov. 9 deadline for filing the new version of the I-129

On Sept. 9, 2026, USCIS published a new version of Form I-129 and set a transition period during which employers may continue using the previous version, dated Feb. 27, 2026. That option, however, will end on Nov. 8, since beginning Monday, Nov. 9, the agency will only accept petitions filed on the updated form.

The rule applies to both filing methods, by mail and through a USCIS online account. Employers should therefore make sure all pages of the form match the same edition and that the current date is correctly identified.

The new version is tied to a DHS regulatory change involving the 9-11 response fee and biometric entry-exit data for certain H-1B and L-1 petitions. While updating the form is mandatory for all categories filed on Form I-129, the new additional-fee rules do not affect all employers or all visas equally.

Which employers will have to pay the additional fees under the Department of Homeland Security

The Department of Homeland Security published a final rule on Aug. 10, 2026 that expands the 9-11 response fee and biometric entry-exit data fee. The regulation took effect on Sept. 9 and says certain employers must pay this charge on all H-1B and L-1 petitions, including requests to extend stays that previously might have been exempt.

To determine whether a company is subject to the fee, DHS requires two conditions to be met at the same time:

• Have at least 50 U.S. employees: the count is based on the company’s workforce in the country.
• Have more than 50% of employees with certain immigration statuses: more than half of the staff must fall under H-1B, L-1A or L-1B categories.

When both conditions are met, the employer must pay an additional fee of $4,000 for H-1B petitions and $4,500 for L-1 petitions. The requirement also applies to stay-extension requests filed by companies that meet this definition, even when the worker remains with the same company. The rule includes an exception for amended petitions that do not seek to extend the employee’s current immigration status.

The rule says these charges will apply to petitions filed through Sept. 30, 2027. So companies that do not meet both DHS conditions are not subject to the fee, but they must still meet USCIS’s deadline and use the new version of Form I-129 when filing after Nov. 9.

The convenience of processed bouillon, whether in cubes or powder, makes it easy to flavor soups, rice, pasta, marinades, and stews without much preparation. However, frequent consumption can pose a health risk because of the amount of sodium they add to the body.

Consumer Magazine for November 2026, published by the Federal Consumer Protection Agency, Profeco, warns that these products usually contain iodized salt, natural and artificial flavorings, spices, vegetable fats, sugar, cornstarch, and monosodium glutamate, among other ingredients.

One of the main risks is tied to their sodium content. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), consuming excessive amounts of this mineral can raise blood pressure and increase the risk of cardiovascular and kidney disease.

Profeco also notes that most of these products carry the EXCESS SODIUM warning label and recommends moderating consumption and choosing homemade alternatives.

How much sodium do processed bouillons have, and why should you moderate your intake?

Industrial bouillons are sold in different forms, but their composition can include significant amounts of sodium chloride. Profeco cites the specifications of the NMX-F-603-NORMEX-2003 standard, which sets quality parameters for these products, although compliance is not mandatory.

Among the maximum sodium chloride percentages set out in the standard are:

• Chicken bouillons: 55% for granules or powder and 60% for cubes
• Beef bouillons: 52% for granules or powder and 60% for cubes
• Shrimp bouillons: 50% for granules or powder and 60% for cubes
• Other bouillon varieties: 54% for granules or powder and 60% for cubes

These percentages refer to the standard’s maximum specifications, not to a measurement of the content in each brand.

Meanwhile, the WHO recommends that adults consume less than 2,000 milligrams of sodium per day, equivalent to less than five grams of salt. Regularly exceeding that amount can contribute to high blood pressure and its complications.

“The main health effects associated with diets high in sodium are high blood pressure (which increases the risk of cardiovascular disease), stomach cancer, obesity, osteoporosis, Meniere’s syndrome and kidney disease,” the WHO says.

How do you convert sodium to salt to know how much you consume each day?

Packaged products usually list sodium in milligrams on their nutrition facts. However, that amount can be converted to grams of salt to compare it with WHO recommendations.

According to the organization’s sodium-to-salt converter:

• 1 gram of salt equals 400 milligrams of sodium
• 5 grams of salt equals 2,000 milligrams of sodium
• To make the conversion, divide the milligrams of sodium by 400. For example, if a product contains 800 milligrams of sodium, that equals two grams of salt

To reduce daily intake, WHO recommends:

• Choose fresh, minimally processed foods
• Take the salt shaker off the table and cook with little or no added salt
• Replace salt with herbs and spices
• Limit sauces, dressings, and instant products.
• Choose low-sodium foods

WHO also recommends replacing regular table salt with reduced-sodium salts that contain potassium when table salt is used. All salt consumed should be iodized.

As for bouillons, Profeco advises choosing homemade preparations made with meat, fish, seafood, or vegetables, because they let you control the amount of salt and know exactly which ingredients were used.

In all, more than 83 locations were taken out of service in a move that directly hits thousands of workers and brings to an end, at least for now, nearly six decades of history for one of the brands on the island.

KFC and Taco Bell confirm total shutdown in this territory

Yum! Brands, the parent company of KFC and Taco Bell, announced the simultaneous closure of all its outlets in Puerto Rico. The decision stemmed from the breakdown of its business relationship with Encanto Restaurants, the company that operated the brands on the island under a franchise model. With no operator in place, the restaurants stopped operating overnight.

More than 83 locations will close

The scale of the shutdown is significant. According to reports, KFC alone operated about 83 restaurants on the island, in addition to Taco Bell locations. The exact number of workers affected by the closure of the two brands was not officially specified.

What is known is that Encanto Restaurants, the operator, employs more than 3,000 people, though they are spread across the four brands it runs on the island: KFC and Taco Bell, along with Pizza Hut and IHOP. So the direct impact of this shutdown affects only part of that total, but thousands of jobs are still in limbo.

The black ball has a specific meaning: the person is placed in “On Call” status and does not have to do Saturday training at a training center. However, they still must complete a series of steps to finish the process and get their released service card.

What it means to draw a black ball in the lottery

Sedena sets out two main paths after the lottery:

• White or blue ball: the person serves as “encuadrada” at a training center.
• Black ball: the person serves “On Call” under the administrative control of the corresponding Military Zone.

So drawing a black ball does not mean being exempt from National Military Service. The person still fulfills the obligation, but without joining the training program required for those assigned to training.

Those placed “On Call” remain under administrative control for one year by the National Defense Ministry, through the recruitment offices of the corresponding Military Zone.

When black-ball draftees must report

After the lottery comes the recruitment phase, which usually takes place on weekends in January. For those taking part in the November 2026 lottery, reporting takes place during the January 2027 recruitment period.

At the intake sites set up by recruitment authorities, young men must hand over their National Military Service Identity Card to military personnel.

For this stage, the card and copies of the following are required:

• Birth certificate.
• Official photo ID.
• CURP.

According to Sedena, the intake sites operate from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

If the card was issued in another municipality, borough or at a Mexican consulate abroad, it may also be necessary to present a Change of Address Notice and documents proving the new residence.

It is important to keep the receipt issued by military personnel when the card is turned in, since it will later be needed to pick up the released paperwork.

When they will receive the released card

For those who draw a black ball in the November 2026 lottery, the “On Call” obligation period runs through 2027. For that reason, the card is released in December 2027, once the year under administrative control ends.

Sedena says that in December, delivery sites are set up at Municipal Boards and Recruitment Borough Offices to hand over the National Military Service Identity Card and Release Form to those who have satisfactorily fulfilled their obligation.

To pick up the paperwork in person, you must present:

• Receipt.
• Official photo ID.

If the card is not picked up in December, Sedena says delivery continues from January through June of the following year at the Recruitment Offices of the Military and Naval Zones.

The agency also warns that any documents not delivered to the people concerned are destroyed on July 1 each year.

Her rescue marked the start of a new life far from the place where she had been the victim of such violence.

What happened next turned her story into an example of resilience, as in just one year, Maggie went from being a rescued dog in extreme conditions to carrying out a very special role alongside people who needed companionship and comfort.

The brutal attack that left Maggie blind and with 17 gunshot wounds

Maggie’s story began in Lebanon, where she was the victim of an extreme case of animal abuse. She was found abandoned and tied to a box, with 17 gunshot wounds to her body that left her completely blind, one of her ears mutilated and her jaw broken. She also lost all of her puppies, as she was pregnant when she was attacked.

Her case spread on social media and drew concern from animal-protection groups such as the British charity Wild at Heart Foundation, which stepped in to rescue her and make sure she got the care she needed, since Maggie had to undergo several surgeries and treatments to recover from her injuries.

The rescue that took Maggie from Lebanon to a new family in the United Kingdom

In 2018, after the rescue and recovery efforts, Maggie was able to leave Lebanon and travel to the United Kingdom. Waiting for her there was Kasey Carlin, a young woman from Brighton who had learned her story through a post about animals in need. Her original plan was to foster her temporarily, but after living together for a month, Kasey decided to adopt her.

Kasey said that, although Maggie initially needed a little help getting around, the loss of her eyes did not stop her from playing, interacting with other dogs or approaching people.

A year later, Maggie became a therapy dog for children and older adults

In 2019, one year after arriving in the United Kingdom, Maggie was registered as a therapy dog because of her loving nature and how easily she approached people. From then on, she began visiting hospitals, nursing homes and universities, where her presence and companionship helped provide emotional comfort to people going through difficult times.

Her work also included visits to schools, where she took part in activities to teach children about respect for animals, accepting differences and bullying. Her story also began to be used to promote the adoption of dogs with disabilities and show that they can live full lives.

Meanwhile, Kelsey launched Wonder Dog Rescue, a project dedicated to rescuing animals with special needs. In this way, Maggie went from needing help to survive to becoming a companion for people who also needed support.

The facility will be located at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada and will allow the service to evaluate the jet’s combat capabilities, train crews and prepare for integration with unmanned combat drones.

The project is part of a program to field a sixth-generation aircraft capable of exceeding 2,400 kilometers per hour and operating alongside semi-autonomous unmanned aircraft.

What the new U.S. military complex will include

The so-called F-47 Future Campus will have infrastructure for testing and maintaining the aircraft. Planned work includes:

• A hangar of about 10,870 square meters for operations and maintenance.
• A simulator of nearly 3,800 square meters.
• A lab to reprogram mission systems.
• An aircraft parking apron.
• Additional facilities for maintenance, training and corrosion control for stealth materials.

What speeds the fighter will reach and how it will operate with drones

The F-47 will be the future sixth-generation fighter for the United States and will gradually replace the F-22 Raptor. According to Gen. David Allvin, it will be able to exceed Mach 2 and will have a combat radius of more than 1,600 kilometers.

It will also incorporate stealth technology, advanced sensors and electronic warfare systems. One of its main features will be its ability to coordinate collaborative combat aircraft (CCA), semi-autonomous drones designed to accompany crewed aircraft.

Announcing the program, Allvin said the new jet will have “greater capability, a more modern capability, designed to adapt, along with our collaborative combat aircraft”.

When the complex will be finished

The Air Force expects to award the first contract in February 2027. The schedule calls for about nine months of design and preparation, followed by roughly 40 months of construction. If the timetable holds, the main facilities will be finished in early March 2031.

The study identified a route linking Argentina and Chile as the flight with the highest levels of instability recorded anywhere in the world. Although it is a short trip, lasting just about an hour, the area’s weather and geography make this air link one of the toughest for airlines.

Why Does the Flight Between Mendoza and Chile Have So Much Turbulence?

The report from the website Turbli gave the route linking Mendoza and Santiago, Chile, the highest turbulence rating in the global survey. The analysis examined more than 10,000 flights and 550 airports around the world.

The explanation is directly tied to crossing the Andes mountain range, where irregular air currents, strong winds, and sudden changes in atmospheric pressure converge. It is a short route, just 196 kilometers, with an average flight time of 60 minutes, but one that concentrates especially complex weather conditions.

In addition, specialists point out that the combination of cold and warm air masses creates constant vertical movements that are often strongly felt inside the cabin. These weather variations cause frequent jolts for much of the flight, especially when conditions are more unstable.

What Experts Say About the Flight’s Safety

Despite the discomfort turbulence can cause, pilots and airlines stress that this type of phenomenon is part of the normal operation of commercial aviation.

The aircraft that fly this route are built to handle extreme conditions, and crews have specific protocols to follow when they encounter intense movements.

Cancellation is not limited to serious crimes, since it can also happen for failing to follow the terms of the visa, providing incorrect information during the application or engaging in activities that are incompatible with the type of visa granted.

What are the reasons the State Department can revoke a U.S. visa?

U.S. regulations, specifically section 41.122 of Title 22 of the Code of Federal Regulations, authorize consular officers and the State Department to revoke nonimmigrant visas when any of the following applies:

• Criminal records or arrests: arrests for assault, theft, domestic violence, driving under the influence or drugs, and other offenses.
• Failure to comply with visa conditions: working without authorization, studying on a permit that does not allow it, or staying in the country longer than permitted.
• Immigration fraud: providing false information, submitting altered documents or using misleading data to obtain the permit.
• National security risks: appearing in security records, being linked to terrorist activities or posing a threat to the United States.
• Activities inconsistent with the purpose of the trip: carrying out work or business activities when the visa was granted exclusively for tourism.
• Human trafficking or facilitation of illegal immigration: taking part in schemes to help foreigners enter the country unlawfully.
• New information about the applicant: discovering after approval circumstances that cast doubt on their eligibility to keep the document.
• Misuse of public benefits: certain cases of abuse of assistance programs may lead to revocation.

Under what conditions is a visa issued?

The government issues visas to foreign nationals who meet the requirements set for each immigration category. Approval depends on the purpose of the trip, the documentation submitted and the review by a State Department consular officer.

To obtain a visa, the applicant must:

• Submit the appropriate form: complete Form DS-160 for nonimmigrant visas or Form DS-260 for immigrant visas, as applicable.
• Prove identity: present a valid passport and the required documents.
• Explain the purpose of the trip: show whether the person is traveling for tourism, business, study, work, family reunification or another authorized reason.
• Meet eligibility requirements: not be subject to grounds of inadmissibility under immigration law.
• Attend a consular interview: when required, answer the officer’s questions and provide additional evidence.
• Pay the required fees: pay the fees established for the category requested.

In the case of tourist and business visas, the applicant must also show they meet the requirements for temporary entry to the United States and that their trip fits the permitted activities.

Why were more than 175,000 visas revoked during Donald Trump’s administration?

On Aug. 10, 2026, the State Department confirmed that more than 175,000 visas had been revoked since the start of Donald Trump’s administration.

According to the agency, the cancellations involved foreign nationals who failed to comply with the terms of their permits, committed crimes, defrauded U.S. citizens or posed a national security threat.

The main reasons listed were:

• Assaults: arrests and investigations for physical violence.
• Driving under the influence: violations related to drunk driving.
• Thefts: involvement in property crimes.
• Drug-related offenses: violations tied to illegal substances.
• Reckless driving: dangerous behavior behind the wheel.
• Sex crimes: sexual assaults and child exploitation.
• Child abuse: investigations into abuse and possession of child sexual abuse material.
• Fraud and embezzlement: scams against U.S. citizens and fraudulent schemes to obtain financial gain.
• Incitement to violence: posts in which foreign nationals celebrated the killing of activist Charlie Kirk.
• Threats to national security and foreign policy: ties to foreign government influence operations and expressions of violence against U.S. citizens.
• Fraudulent birth tourism: more than 100 visas for parents who traveled mainly so their children could be born on U.S. soil and obtain citizenship.

What happens when a U.S. visa is revoked?

When the State Department revokes a visa, the document is no longer valid for travel to the United States. Under federal regulation 22 CFR 41.122, the consequences are as follows:

• Loss of validity: the holder may not use that visa to travel to the United States.
• Cancellation record: the revocation is entered into the CLASS consular information system.
• Physical cancellation: authorities may stamp REVOKED on the visa.
• Notification: when possible, the consulate must inform the holder of the decision.
• New application: the person may apply for another visa, but must meet the eligibility requirements again and is not guaranteed approval.

Revocation does not mean the person will be deported immediately, since these are two different processes.

If the foreign national is outside the United States, they will not be able to use the canceled document to enter the country. If they are inside the United States, revocation does not automatically mean immediate removal, as immigration authorities may review their case and determine whether to begin removal proceedings.

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.

To apply, they must complete Form W-7 and submit the required documents to prove their identity and foreign status to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). At least two documents are required, unless you have a U.S. passport.

What documents must be submitted to get an ITIN if you do not have a U.S. passport?

The IRS states that those without a valid passport must submit two supporting documents. One to prove identity and another to show foreign status.

At least one of the documents must include a photo of the applicant. The exception is for dependents under 14, or under 18 if they are students.

Also, though it may go without saying, the documents must be current and submitted in original form or as copies certified by the issuing agency. The IRS will not accept notarized copies as a substitute.

Which documents does the IRS accept to prove identity and foreign status?

The IRS recognizes 13 types of documents that can be used to prove identity, foreign status or both:

Documents to prove identity and foreign status:

• Foreign passport.
• Foreign national identity card.
• U.S. visa.
• Foreign military ID.
• Foreign voter registration card.
• Foreign birth certificate.

Documents to prove identity only:

• U.S. driver’s license.
• U.S. military ID.
• Foreign driver’s license.
• State-issued ID in the United States.
• USCIS photo ID.
• Medical records (dependents under 6).
• School records (dependents under 24 who are students).

Who must complete this procedure?

The ITIN is for people who need a tax identification number to meet their federal tax obligations but are not eligible for an SSN.

Possible applicants include:

• Nonresident aliens who must file a tax return in the United States.
• Resident aliens who must file taxes but do not qualify for an SSN.
• People applying for treaty benefits.
• Spouses or dependents of U.S. citizens or resident aliens who need an identification number to claim certain tax benefits.
• Foreign students, teachers and researchers who must file tax returns or meet one of the IRS exceptions.

Eligibility also depends on tax status and each applicant’s specific requirements.

What is the ITIN for?

The ITIN is used to identify taxpayers who need to meet federal tax obligations in the United States but are not eligible for an SSN.

Its main uses include:

• Filing federal tax returns.
• Reporting income earned in the United States.
• Claiming certain allowed tax refunds or benefits.
• Meeting tax obligations arising from investments or business activities subject to taxation.
• Identifying spouses and dependents on certain tax returns.

Only citizens of countries on the Six-Month Club list are exempt, and the list may be updated periodically. Those from countries not on the list must meet the six-month requirement. Otherwise, they could run into trouble entering the United States.

Which countries are exempt from the six-month passport rule?

Citizens of countries included in the Six-Month Club are exempt from having a passport valid for six additional months beyond their planned departure date from the United States.

The latest list was published on Dec. 18, 2025.

Latin American countries on the list include:

• Argentina.
• Bolivia.
• Brazil.
• Chile.
• Colombia.
• Costa Rica.
• El Salvador.
• Guatemala.
• Mexico.
• Nicaragua.
• Panama.
• Paraguay.
• Peru.
• Dominican Republic.
• Uruguay.
• Venezuela.

The list also includes countries in Europe, Asia, Africa and Oceania, including Australia, Spain, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, India and South Korea.

The official list should be checked before traveling here.

What rule replaces the six-month validity requirement?

For citizens of exempt countries, the six-month requirement is replaced by a more flexible condition. The passport must remain valid for the entire planned stay in the United States.

The measure does not eliminate the requirement to have a valid passport or change any other immigration requirements.

Who absolutely must present a passport with six months of validity?

Citizens of countries not included in the Six-Month Club must meet the general U.S. rule. Latin American countries not on the list include Cuba and Honduras.

Also not on the list are:

• Ecuador.
• Afghanistan.
• Algeria.
• Azerbaijan.
• Bahrain.
• Bangladesh.
• Belarus.
• Cambodia.
• Cameroon.
• Iran.
• Iraq.
• Jordan.
• Kazakhstan.
• Kuwait.
• Laos.
• Moldova.
• Oman.
• North Korea.
• Syria.
• Yemen.

What other conditions must a passport meet for the State Department to allow entry?

In addition to meeting validity requirements, travelers must pay attention to the document’s technical conditions. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) sets different requirements depending on the type of trip and the immigration program chosen.

• Be in good condition: no tears, damage or deterioration that would prevent authenticity from being verified.
• Have legible information: the name, date of birth, document number and other information must be readable.
• Include an identifiable photo: it must allow the holder to be recognized.
• Have a machine-readable zone (MRZ): when applicable, it must include the strip of characters that allows the data to be scanned.
• Include an electronic chip: required for certain temporary or emergency passports used under the Visa Waiver Program.
• Show no alterations: the photo, personal data and security features must not have been altered.
• Be individual: each traveler, including minors and infants, must have their own document when the travel program requires it.

The system will mainly affect parts of the Mid-Atlantic and New England, although rainfall amounts will vary by location.

Weekend forecast: What to expect

The Northeast United States will see a change in weather conditions during the Nov. 7-8 weekend. After several weeks of dry weather and warmer-than-normal temperatures, a rain system will move into the region and bring cooler conditions.

According to AccuWeather, rain began spreading during the second half of the week and could continue through the weekend in parts of the Northeast.

The temperature drop is most noticeable starting Friday, though arctic air is not expected. In inland areas, highs will be in the 40s and 50s F (4 to 10 C), while near the Mid-Atlantic coast they could reach the 50s and 60s F (10 to 16 C).

Which parts of the United States will be affected by the storm?

Starting Saturday, rain could continue in different parts of the Northeast. The heaviest rain could hit southeastern Virginia, the Delmarva Peninsula, New Jersey, Long Island, New York and southeastern Massachusetts. These areas will also face a higher risk of flash flooding.

New York, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., and Boston could also see rain, though rainfall amounts will vary from city to city.

What other hazards will come with the rain?

Heavy rain could cause flooding on streets and roads, especially in areas where water pools.

Drivers should also be careful, since wet leaves on the pavement can cause vehicles to lose traction and lead to accidents.

In addition, strong winds and a significant drop in temperatures are possible. In the highest elevations, a few snowflakes could even mix in with the rain.

Which areas will get a break from the rain?

Some coastal communities could get less rain if the heaviest bands shift out over the Atlantic Ocean.

Those areas could see dry spells and some sunshine. However, conditions will depend on how the system moves through the weekend.

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.

Within this framework, an unusual volunteer opportunity has emerged, since the offer is to live on a boat and sail around Brazil and the Caribbean instead of settling into a home, as is usually the case.

Even so, it is an ideal option for more adventurous travelers, though before applying, it’s worth knowing what benefits the volunteer opportunity offers and which expenses are covered by the volunteer.

Volunteers Wanted to Live for Free on a Sailboat in Portugal

Workaway works as an exchange platform: travelers contribute hours of work, and hosts provide room and board, with no salary involved.

In this case, the hosts, Marco and Eduarda, live on a 28-meter boat now docked in Portimão, Portugal. Marco and his son Mathies sailed around the world for 10 years before settling in Portugal.

According to the posting, volunteers receive:

• Private cabin aboard.
• Three meals a day.
• Bathrooms with a hot shower, heating, and a fully equipped kitchen.
• Internet access through the host’s hotspot.
• Sailing lessons, traditional boat maintenance, and sail repair.

In return, the host is expected to help with:

• Carpentry.
• Painting.
• Cleaning.
• Maintenance.
• Construction.
• Electrical work.
• Engineering.
• Repairs.
• Cooking on rotation.

When will the boat return to sea, and what requirements are needed

The host said that on Nov. 16, the sailboat will go into dry dock for its annual maintenance. At that stage, the boat will need to be cleaned, sanded, painted, and repaired in some areas. The boat is expected back in the water in mid- to late January. Only after that will the journey continue, with no confirmed departure date.

In this context, the call for volunteers is aimed mainly at the repair stage.

The requirements are:

• Technical background: painting, electrical work, carpentry, engineering, or maintenance.
• Minimum stay of one week.
• Preference for people over 25.
• Ability to work as part of a team of about seven people.
• Register on Workaway to contact the host.

It should be noted that several things are the volunteer’s responsibility: the ticket to Portugal, local transportation, and the proper visa to volunteer if they are not a citizen of the European Union.

In short, this is a different kind of volunteer opportunity that allows people to experience what it’s like to live on a boat. Those interested only need to go to the platform, create an account with their personal information, find the listing, and apply. Ultimately, the host accepts or rejects the volunteer.

The U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Ready.gov explain what a shelter should have, where it should be located and why concrete and brick buildings may offer a more effective barrier against radioactive fallout.

In addition to choosing the right location, it is important to have essential supplies to stay sheltered. Authorities also specify how long people should remain inside a building after an explosion and what precautions to take before going outside.

Where to Put a Shelter Inside the Home During a Nuclear Blast

According to guidance from Ready.gov and the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the places that offer the most protection from a nuclear blast are basements and the central areas of large buildings made with heavy materials such as concrete, brick, or cement. These spaces can reduce exposure to radioactive fallout, which may settle on roofs, walls, and the ground after the explosion.

If the home does not have a basement, the recommendation is to identify an interior room, preferably in the center of the structure, away from windows, doors, and exterior walls. It is worth noting that the more walls and structures there are between people and the outside, the greater the protection may be from radioactive particles.

How to prepare a room to protect against radiation

Once the safest place has been identified, it is important to prepare it to reduce the entry of radioactive particles and allow people to stay there for several hours. CDC guidance recommends closing and locking doors, windows, and fireplace dampers, staying away from exterior walls and the roof and, when possible, turning off fans, air conditioners, and heating systems that draw air from outside

If a person was outdoors when the explosion occurred or was exposed to fallout, they should take precautions before settling into the shelter. The CDC recommends:

• Remove the outer layer of clothing: This can remove up to 90% of radioactive material on the body.
• Bag exposed clothing: Put it in a sealed plastic bag and keep it away from other people.
• Wash exposed skin: Use soap and water, without scrubbing hard. If showering is not possible, wipe the skin with a damp cloth.
• Put on clean clothes: Once the contaminating material has been removed, change before staying in the protected space.

These steps help prevent radioactive particles from spreading inside the home. In addition, do not go out to look for family members who are in other buildings, as health authorities advise that each person remain in the safe place where they are until official instructions are given.

What a Nuclear Shelter Cannot Do Without

In addition to having a protected space, it is necessary to prepare supplies to cover the basic needs of those who have to stay inside the home. Ready.gov recommends keeping an emergency kit with drinking water, nonperishable food, medication, and items that can help people get through several days without relying on outside services. These items should be stored in an accessible place and available to all family members.

Among the essentials are:

• Drinking water: Store at least 3.8 liters per person per day for a minimum of three days.
• Nonperishable food: Canned goods, dried fruit, granola bars, and other items that do not need refrigeration.
• Medication and first-aid kit: Prescription medicines, bandages, disinfectants, and first-aid supplies.
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio: allows people to receive information from authorities even if regular communications are interrupted.
• Flashlight and extra batteries: needed for light during possible power outages.
• Hygiene items: Wet wipes, soap, trash bags, and personal hygiene supplies.
• Portable chargers: Help keep cellphones charged to receive alerts and communicate.
• Documents and cash: it is a good idea to keep copies of important documents and some cash in a protected container.

It is also important to include specific supplies for babies, older adults, people who need medical treatment, and pets. The amount of supplies should be adjusted to the number of people who will use the shelter and their particular needs.

The CDC recommends staying indoors for at least 24 hours after a nuclear detonation, because the intensity of radiation from fallout decreases over time. However, people should not leave simply because that period has passed, since they need to listen for instructions from authorities and wait until they confirm it is safe to go outside.

Trump is scheduled to deliver public remarks at 6 p.m. local time (11 p.m. GMT) from the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral. The appearance will be one of his first public addresses since Republicans suffered a major electoral setback in Tuesday’s midterm elections.

The complex is NASA’s primary launch site for crewed spacecraft. Through Sunday, it will host air shows, skydiving demonstrations, technology showcases, spaceflight equipment displays, and military aircraft exhibitions.

Visitors will also have access to areas of the spaceport that are normally closed to the public.

One of the event’s main highlights, which is being held for the first time, will be the UP Summit, featuring everything from flying vehicles to advanced drones and space exploration technology.

The summit will also bring together private investors and business leaders from the aerospace industry at a pivotal moment in the commercial competition involving SpaceX, Blue Origin, and autonomous aviation.

The United States is commemorating the 250th anniversary of its independence from the British Empire this year with a series of special celebrations across the country, including a major fireworks display on July 4.

Source: EFE.

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.