From physical appearance and fitness to workplace productivity, the word reflects a growing interest in getting the most out of nearly everything. But it can also be used ironically to poke fun at the pressure to constantly improve.

What does “maxxing” mean, and how do people use it?

The term comes from words such as “maximum,” “maximize,” and “max.” It gained traction online through expressions such as “looksmaxxing,” which refers to efforts to improve physical appearance, and later expanded into other areas of life.

For example, “proteinmaxxing” describes prioritizing protein intake, while “tokenmaxxing” refers to maximizing the use of artificial intelligence tools at work. Even an ordinary night at home watching movies and eating snacks can become “cozymaxxing.”

Dictionary.com said searches for “maxxing” rose sharply in 2026, with the word increasingly appearing on its own rather than only as part of longer expressions. Its growing popularity reflects how the term has moved beyond its original online communities.

What the word says about life in 2026

Dictionary.com sees “maxxing” as a reflection of a culture that increasingly values optimization. The idea of pushing something further can apply to personal appearance, health, work performance, and everyday routines.

However, the term does not always celebrate the pursuit of improvement. Some people use it seriously, while others exaggerate the concept for humor or use it to describe stepping away from the pressure to do more.

The other words on Dictionary.com’s 2026 shortlist were “affordability,” “data center,” “odyssey,” and “unc.” Together, the selections reflect themes ranging from economic concerns and artificial intelligence to internet slang and popular culture.

The closure will last 16 months and force drivers who use this link on State Route 47 to find alternate routes.

According to the California Department of Transportation, 53,000 vehicles cross the structure each day, including trucks carrying goods to and from the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach.

Why California is closing the bridge

The Vincent Thomas Bridge opened in 1963 and has been part of Southern California’s road network for more than six decades. Although its main structure remains sound, the roadway used by vehicles has shown progressive wear linked to heavy traffic, age and environmental conditions.

Caltrans said leaving the current surface untouched could worsen the damage and make more emergency closures necessary to carry out spot repairs. For that reason, officials decided on a full, extended closure.

The project also includes replacing the railings, fencing, median barrier and seismic sensors. The goal is to improve safety and extend the life of this key link.

What alternate routes drivers will need to take

Drivers will have to change their usual routes during the 16 months of construction. Among the main roads expected to absorb some of the traffic are the following:

• Interstate 710 (I-710): one of the highways planned to carry traffic.
• Interstate 110 (I-110): another main link for rerouting traffic.
• State Route 103 (SR 103): an alternative within the area road network.
• Harry Bridges Boulevard: a local corridor included in the planned detours.

Connections through streets such as Alameda Street and Henry Ford Avenue are also under consideration, according to the detour plan and traffic needs.

The impact will not be limited to private vehicles; commercial trucks will also have to adjust to the traffic management measures.

Will there be traffic control?

Caltrans will deploy traffic-control officers at 18 key intersections to manually direct traffic and address problems that may arise at the most congested crossings.

Monitoring of commercial trucks will also be stepped up to keep heavy traffic from diverting onto residential streets not designed to handle that volume.

How much the project will cost and when the bridge will reopen

The project has a total budget of $750 million, and the official schedule calls for a complete 16-month shutdown, with reopening expected in early March 2028, ahead of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.

During the work, crews will operate around the clock to meet the schedule. According to the project documents, the single-phase approach was chosen for safety, efficiency and cost reasons, though it will mean a prolonged disruption for those who depend on the crossing.

Although specialized products are sold for this purpose, the official Metro government website in Oregon recommends using a homemade mixture made with two easy-to-find ingredients: olive oil and vinegar.

“Natural homemade cleaners are safe to use around children and pets, and they are just as effective at removing dirt and grime,” it explains.

Mixing olive oil and vinegar to make leather garments look like new: how to do it

The advice for treating this type of garment is to mix half a cup of olive oil and a quarter cup of vinegar in a spray bottle. This vegetable oil, which can make leather shine, is combined with the acetic acid in vinegar, which helps dissolve residue.

The official recommendation is to shake the mixture before each use so the ingredients blend as well as possible, then spray it onto a soft cloth and wipe the garment.

The mixture is said to work both for cleaning and conditioning.

Other recommendations for caring for leather

The Canadian Conservation Institute recommends protecting leather from extreme temperatures and from too little or too much humidity. Very dry climates can cause the material to become brittle, while high humidity encourages mold and the deterioration of the fibers that hold the material together.

It also recommends protecting this material from light, limiting exposure to direct lamps or sunlight to prevent fading and damage to the garment.

If there is surface dust or loose dirt, the recommendation is to clean the garment with a soft brush.

The BNSF Railway network is essential infrastructure for transporting agricultural products, consumer goods, coal, and industrial freight.

The relationship between the two companies was cemented in 2010, when Berkshire Hathaway completed its purchase of the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Corporation shares it did not yet own. The surviving entity was renamed Burlington Northern Santa Fe, LLC, and BNSF Railway became its wholly owned subsidiary. Today, BNSF Railway belongs to Burlington Northern Santa Fe, LLC, which is part of Berkshire Hathaway.

How many rail miles does the company control

BNSF Railway Company operates more than 32,500 miles of rail lines in 28 U.S. states and also has a presence in three provinces of Canada. That figure refers to the routes it uses to operate, not including additional main lines, rail yards, or sidings.

In its annual report filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Berkshire Hathaway describes the scale of this infrastructure. The document says that BNSF operates one of the largest freight rail networks in North America.

The company also says it owns more than 23,000 miles of track, including rights of way, and uses trackage rights on more than 9,000 miles of track owned by other railroads. If single-track and multiple-track main lines, yards, and sidings are included, the system exceeded 50,000 miles operated as of Dec. 31, 2025.

How much did BNSF Railway Company invest in the United States in 2025

BNSF Railway Company’s investment in 2025 totaled about US$3.8 billion, according to the company’s financial statements and Berkshire Hathaway’s annual report.

The SEC report lists $3,796 million in capital expenditures for BNSF’s rail business during the year. In the document, spending is broken down into $3,272 million in capital investments excluding equipment purchases, and another $525 million used to buy equipment.

BNSF’s report says its capital program aims to increase capacity, strengthen safety and efficiency, extend the life of its assets and provide new services to customers.

How much money does BNSF Railway earn in 2025

The 2025 financial results show the economic scale of Berkshire Hathaway’s rail business. According to the annual report filed with the SEC, BNSF reported $23.5 billion in rail operating revenue and $8.055 billion in rail operating income. That latter figure was up 7.8% from the US$7.469 billion reported in 2024.

It is also worth noting that the company cut its rail operating expenses: They fell from US$15.886 billion in 2024 to US$15.295 billion in 2025, a decline of 3.7%.

The first higher payment depends on the program you receive. Most people collecting Social Security retirement, disability or survivor benefits will see the increase in their January 2027 payment, while SSI recipients are scheduled to receive their adjusted benefit on December 31, 2026, ahead of the New Year’s Day holiday.

When the 2027 Social Security COLA takes effect

The SSA announced the 3.6% increase on October 14, 2026. The adjustment applies to benefits beginning with December 2026, which are generally paid in January 2027.

For most people receiving retirement, disability or survivor benefits, this means the first payment reflecting the increase will arrive in January. The exact deposit date depends on the recipient’s payment group.

The schedule differs for people who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Their increased payment for January 2027 is scheduled to arrive on December 31, 2026, because January 1 is a federal holiday.

That earlier deposit does not represent an extra check or a bonus. It is the regular SSI payment for January, delivered ahead of the usual date.

When you’ll receive your first higher Social Security payment

The payment date depends on the type of benefit you receive and, for many Social Security beneficiaries, your date of birth.

• December 31, 2026: SSI recipients receive the January payment with the 3.6% increase.
• January 3 payment group: Some beneficiaries, including those who began receiving Social Security before May 1997, follow a different schedule from the standard Wednesday groups. Because January 3, 2027, falls on a Sunday, the applicable payment date should be checked against the SSA’s official calendar.
• January 13, 2027: Under the regular schedule, retirement, disability and survivor beneficiaries born between the 1st and 10th of the month receive their January payment on the second Wednesday.
• January 20, 2027: Beneficiaries born between the 11th and 20th generally receive their payment on the third Wednesday.
• January 27, 2027: Beneficiaries born between the 21st and 31st generally receive their payment on the fourth Wednesday.

People who receive both Social Security and SSI may have different deposit dates for each benefit. Checking the official payment calendar is the best way to confirm when the increased amount will arrive.

How much more money will Social Security recipients get in 2027?

The 3.6% COLA will not translate into the same dollar increase for everyone. The amount depends on the benefit a person currently receives.

The SSA estimates that the average monthly retirement benefit will rise by approximately $75. That figure is an average, not a guaranteed increase for every retiree.

For example, a beneficiary currently receiving $1,500 per month would see a gross increase of $54 after applying the 3.6% adjustment. The new amount would be $1,554 before any applicable deductions.

The amount deposited into a bank account may differ from the gross benefit increase. Medicare premiums, withholding and other deductions can affect the final payment, so recipients should review their individual notices before calculating how much additional money they will have available.

How to check your new Social Security benefit amount

Beneficiaries do not need to wait for the first increased payment to learn their new monthly amount.

The SSA said people with a personal my Social Security account can access their personalized COLA notice online. Recipients who enroll in paperless notices can receive the information digitally, while those who continue receiving paper notices will get them by mail in December.

The notice includes the updated benefit amount and any applicable deductions. Medicare enrollees can also check information about their 2027 premiums through their account.

The University of Arkansas System recommends a mixture of lemon, olive oil and water that is applied directly to the surface to restore some of its luster and leave a shinier finish.

How to make a homemade furniture polish with lemon and olive oil

The recipe shared by the University of Arkansas System uses three common household ingredients to make a polish that should be prepared right before each use.

The mixture combines lemon juice with a small amount of olive oil and water, so it does not require specialized cleaning products.

To make this homemade solution, you need the following ingredients.

• 1 lemon.
• 1 teaspoon of olive oil.
• 1 teaspoon of water.

The process is to squeeze the lemon juice and mix it with the olive oil and water until the ingredients are fully combined.

It is also important to prepare only the amount you will use right away, since the university recommends making the mixture just before applying it.

Step by step: How to restore the shine to wood with this mixture

Once the solution is ready, the next step is to spread it on tthe surface of the piece of furniture and let it sit for a few minutes. The application should be done carefully to avoid leaving overly wet spots or residue from the mixture.

To follow the method recommended by the institution cited, take these steps.

1. Prepare the mixture with the juice of one lemon, one teaspoon of olive oil and one teaspoon of water.
2. Apply a thin layer to the wooden surface you want to polish.
3. Let it sit for five minutes, as the recipe states.
4. Buff with a soft cloth to remove any remaining mixture and improve the finish of the surface.

Using a soft cloth makes it possible to work on the wood without abrasive materials that could leave marks or scratches.

What precautions to take before using the home remedy

Although it uses common ingredients, this preparation is not suitable for all finishes. The lemon juice is acidic and the oil can leave residue, so it is best to first test a small amount on a hidden area and see how the surface reacts.

It is also advisable to avoid using it on unfinished wood, antique furniture or delicate surfaces without first checking the manufacturer’s care instructions. In these cases, the mixture could cause stains or alter the original finish.

To keep furniture in good condition, it is a good idea to dust regularly and use products compatible with the treatment of each surface. In this way, the home remedy can be considered a one-off option, as long as the material and finish can handle the ingredients.

Jarod Koopman, the IRS chief tax compliance officer and head of its Criminal Investigation division, described the changes last week at the UCLA Extension Tax Controversy Conference.

Koopman said the agency is “extremely close” to releasing the revamped program and wants it out before December, ahead of next year’s tax filing season. The details won’t be final until the IRS publishes them.

What is the IRS program for coming clean about unpaid taxes?

The voluntary disclosure program is for people whose violations were willful, meaning deliberate. That includes hiding income, filing returns they knew were false or not filing at all, all of which can lead to criminal charges.

Taxpayers who come forward before the IRS opens an audit or investigation, or learns about them some other way, can generally avoid prosecution. They still owe back taxes, interest and penalties, and protection isn’t automatic.

Under the current rules, the cost is steep. The IRS usually applies a civil fraud penalty to the year with the largest amount owed, and other penalties can be added on top.

The process is also slow. Cases can take a year or more, and applicants must admit to willful conduct before they know whether the IRS will accept them.

What changes under the new IRS rules for taxpayers?

Koopman said the overhaul targets the three biggest reasons people stay away from the program: cost, delays and the inability to pay. He outlined these changes:

• Lower penalties: Penalties “will be a lot less” than they are now, Koopman said, though he gave no figures.
• Faster answers: The IRS is aiming to resolve cases within 120 days after a taxpayer files a complete submission.
• Payment options: The agency is considering installment agreements, which spread payments over time. It is also considering offers in compromise, which settle a tax debt for less than the full amount.
• Crypto included: There won’t be a separate program for digital assets. Unreported cryptocurrency will be handled like any other taxable income.

It’s still unclear whether the IRS will lower the fraud penalty rate, apply it to fewer years or create a new penalty structure. Koopman also didn’t say whether applicants will still have to admit willful conduct up front.

A faster timeline also means less room to fix paperwork along the way. Applicants will likely need corrected returns ready when they apply.

Who should use the IRS program, and what should taxpayers do now?

The program isn’t meant for honest mistakes. Koopman noted that taxpayers who misunderstood the rules or made accidental errors may have other routes, such as a qualified amended return, which can reduce some penalties.

For people who knowingly broke the rules, timing matters most. Eligibility generally ends once the IRS opens an audit or investigation, so waiting for the launch carries risk.

Criminal tax attorneys advise getting a lawyer involved now to prepare corrected returns before the rollout. When the lawyer, not the taxpayer, hires the accountant, that work is protected by attorney-client privilege.

This happens when the first day of the following month falls on a Saturday, Sunday or federal holiday. In those cases, payment is moved up to the last business day of the previous month.

Who will receive the November payment on Friday, Oct. 30?

The Social Security Administration (SSA) confirmed that Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients will receive their November payment on Friday, Oct. 30, 2026.

This is because Nov. 1 falls on a Sunday and, according to the SSA, when the usual payment date falls on a weekend or federal holiday, the deposit is moved up to the previous business day.

The SSI program is for people with limited income and resources who meet one of the following conditions:

• Are 65 or older.
• Are adults or children with a qualifying disability.
• Are blind and meet the established financial requirements.

SSI amount: how much is paid now and how much it will rise in 2027

According to the SSA, the maximum federal SSI amounts will rise 3.6% in 2027 under the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), announced Oct. 14, 2026.

2026 amounts

• Individual: $994.
• Eligible couple: $1,491.
• Essential person: $498.

2027 amounts

• Individual: $1,029.
• Eligible couple: $1,544.
• Essential person: $516.

How is the SSA payment schedule set up for November and December?

For the rest of 2026, the SSA set the following payment dates.

November

• SSI: Friday, Oct. 30.
• People who started receiving Social Security before May 1997 or receive both Social Security and SSI: Tuesday, Nov. 3.
• Born between the 1st and 10th: Tuesday, Nov. 10 (because of Veterans Day, observed Nov. 11).
• Born between the 11th and 20th: Wednesday, Nov. 18.
• Born between the 21st and 31st: Wednesday, Nov. 25.

December

• SSI: Tuesday, Dec. 1.
• People who started receiving Social Security before May 1997 or receive both Social Security and SSI: Thursday, Dec. 3.
• Born between the 1st and 10th: Wednesday, Dec. 9.
• Born between the 11th and 20th: Wednesday, Dec. 16.
• Born between the 21st and 31st: Wednesday, Dec. 23.

In addition, the SSI payment for January 2027 will be paid on Thursday, Dec. 31, and will include the COLA-adjusted amount.

According to the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), the sign indicates an upcoming railroad crossing. When they approach it, motorists should slow down and watch and listen carefully for a train.

What does the yellow sign with a black X and two Rs mean?

The yellow circular sign with a black X and an R on each side warns of a railroad crossing ahead.

Its purpose is to alert drivers so they take the necessary precautions before reaching the tracks, especially if a train may be about to cross the road.

The DMV includes this sign among the traffic warnings motorists must recognize to drive safely.

It is important to note that this sign alone does not require drivers to stop completely. It means the driver should be ready to brake when conditions at the crossing call for it.

How should drivers respond when they see this sign?

According to the California DMV, motorists should take four basic precautions when approaching a railroad crossing:

• Look at the tracks and watch for the possible presence of a train.
• Stay alert for sounds that could warn of an approaching train.
• Drive with extra caution as you approach the crossing.
• Stop when necessary and let any train pass before continuing.

These instructions are meant to help drivers recognize the danger in advance and act before entering the railroad crossing.

The agency also says many crossings have blue and white emergency information signs that explain what to do if an incident happens near the tracks or if a vehicle becomes stuck on them.

Lifetime earnings, the age at which a person claims benefits, and differences in work histories all help explain why some retirees receive more than others.

Age and gender also influence the averages. Meanwhile, eligible Americans with limited income and resources may qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), a separate program with its own eligibility rules and payment amounts.

Social Security benefits vary by age and gender

The average monthly retirement benefit is not a fixed payment for every beneficiary. According to SSA data cited by The Motley Fool, retirees aged 62 received an average of $1,424.40 per month in December 2025.

By comparison, those aged 70 received an average of $2,274.68. The difference partly reflects the age at which people claim their benefits.

Workers who claim before reaching full retirement age generally receive reduced monthly payments. Those who delay claiming beyond full retirement age can qualify for higher benefits, up to age 70.

How the Social Security Administration calculates retirement checks

The SSA calculates retirement benefits using a worker’s 35 highest-earning years, adjusted for changes in wages over time. People with higher lifetime earnings and longer work histories may therefore qualify for larger monthly payments.

The age at which someone claims benefits also matters. For people whose full retirement age is 67, claiming at 62 can reduce their benefit by as much as 30%.

By waiting until age 70, eligible workers can receive delayed retirement credits that increase their monthly payments. However, claiming later is not necessarily the right choice for every person.

Receiving more than the average does not automatically mean a retiree has enough money to cover all expenses. Social Security is designed to replace only part of a worker’s pre-retirement income, so personal savings, pensions and other income sources may still be necessary.

SSI recipients will receive their November payment on October 30

Unlike Social Security retirement benefits, SSI provides monthly payments to eligible people with limited income and resources. The program serves adults aged 65 or older, as well as people of any age who are blind or have qualifying disabilities.

The SSA’s payment schedule lists Friday, October 30, as the payment date for November SSI benefits. The payment arrives early because November 1 falls on a Sunday.

For 2026, the maximum federal SSI payment is $994 per month for an eligible individual and $1,491 for an eligible couple. Not everyone receives the maximum amount.

The actor himself recalled that the agency was demanding about $2.8 million from him and that he was nearly broke. What seemed like a hard blow to overcome ended up coinciding with an unexpected opportunity, even though he still had no acting experience.

That is how Smith ended up starring in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, known in Spanish as El príncipe del rap. The sitcom premiered in 1990, ran for six seasons and became a turning point in his career.

Why Will Smith Accumulated a $2.8 Million IRS Debt

Before becoming a Hollywood star, Smith had major success with songs like Parents Just Don´t Understand, which won a Grammy for best rap performance in 1989. The money allowed him to live lavishly, with cars, motorcycles, expensive clothes and big spending.

However, the picture changed when the follow-up album did not perform as expected and Smith had spent much of the money he had left, so he did not pay his taxes either, he said in an autobiographical video posted on his YouTube channel.

The actor said he had not grasped the consequences of that decision until the IRS came to collect the money and took his belongings. In an interview with 60 Minutes, Smith recalled that the debt was around $2.8 million and that he had only $2.83 left.

How an IRS Debt Led Will Smith to Star in a Hit TV Series

Amid financial troubles, the rapper began hanging around tapings of The Arsenio Hall Show, where he met Benny Medina, a music industry executive who was developing an idea for a TV comedy. Medina introduced him to producer Quincy Jones, who saw potential in the artist to star in the project.

In December 1989, Will arrived at a meeting at Jones’ house, where Brandon Tartikoff, then head of NBC, was also present. There he received the script and had to prepare for an improvised audition with no prior acting experience. However, he landed the lead role in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, a series that premiered in 1990 and remained on the air for six seasons.

Getting the role did not mean Smith could freely spend his new income, since for the first three years of the series the IRS withheld 70% of his checks to cover the tax debt. According to the 60 Minutes interview, by the end of that period he was able to get back to a stable financial footing.

On Friday, October 30, meanwhile, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for November is scheduled to be deposited.

When is the last Social Security payment for October 2026?

This Wednesday, October 28 is the last regular payment date of the month for the group of beneficiaries whose deposit day is determined by their birth date. Specifically, it applies to people born between the 21st and 31st of any month who receive benefits under the SSA’s regular schedule.

Why Social Security is moving November SSI up to Friday, Oct. 30

Friday, October 30, is the scheduled deposit date for November 2026 SSI. The reason for the change is the calendar: Nov. 1 falls on a Sunday. When the first day of the month falls on a weekend or federal holiday, the agency moves the payment up to the previous business day.

It is worth noting that the earlier date does not mean SSI recipients will get two payments in October or that the monthly benefit has increased.

What are the Social Security payment dates in November 2026?

The SSA schedule sets three Wednesdays for regular November payments, based on the beneficiary’s birth date. Those dates are joined by the day 3 deposit for certain beneficiaries and the early SSI payment.

• Friday, October 30

SSI beneficiaries: payment for November.

• Tuesday, November 3

People who receive Social Security benefits on the day 3 schedule, including certain beneficiaries who began before May 1997 and those who receive both programs.

• Tuesday, November 10 (the payment is moved up because Wednesday, November 11 is a federal holiday in observance of Veterans Day)

Beneficiaries born between the 1st and 10th.

• Wednesday, Nov. 18

Beneficiaries born between the 11th and 20th.

• Wednesday, Nov. 25

Beneficiaries born between the 21st and 31st.

What should you do if the Social Security deposit does not arrive on time?

If the money does not show up in the bank account or does not arrive through the designated payment method on the scheduled date, the SSA recommends waiting three additional mailing days before contacting the agency.

Before filing a claim, it’s a good idea to check the bank account, verify that deposit information is up to date, and confirm which date applies to each person’s program.

The rituals took place between September 1975 and June 1976; according to historical reconstructions, the young woman suffered disturbing episodes and reached a state of extreme malnutrition and exhaustion.

Anneliese died on July 1, 1976, when she weighed about 68 pounds. Two years later, her parents and the two priests who took part in the exorcisms were convicted of negligent homicide.

What Was Happening to Anneliese Michel Before the Exorcisms Were Authorized

Anneliese Michel was 23 and living in Germany when her story became one of the best-known exorcism cases of the 20th century. According to a reconstruction published by the public broadcaster WDR, she suffered epileptic seizures and ended up injuring her knees after doing 600 kneelings. She was also said to have adverse reactions to religious objects such as crucifixes, which those around her increasingly interpreted as signs of alleged demonic possession.

Michel said she heard voices, saw demonic faces and had negative thoughts telling her she would end up in hell. However, the symptoms and their causes were interpreted differently, since medical explanations linked the condition to neurological and psychological problems, while her family and the priests said she was possessed, leading them to seek a religious answer through extensive rituals.

Why She Underwent 67 Exorcisms and What Behaviors Were Recorded During That Time

The exorcisms were authorized by the Bishop of Würzburg, Josef Stangl, and carried out by Arnold Renz and Ernst Alt between September 1975 and June 1976. In less than a year, 67 sessions were held, a figure that appears in historical reconstructions of the case published by the Evangelische Zentralstelle für Weltanschauungsfragen (EZW), a German institution specializing in the study of religious issues.

During that period, Anneliese’s health worsened, as accounts of the case describe episodes of screaming, violent movements and resistance during the rituals carried out in her parents’ bedroom, which is why she was chained to a chair. Some sessions were recorded, and the tapes were presented during the later trial, making part of what happened known beyond the family and religious setting.

According to a reconstruction published by The Washington Post in 2005, Anneliese reportedly ate spiders and coal and spent periods under a table while barking like a dog. These behaviors are part of the accounts circulated about the case, whose interpretation was shaped by those around her belief in alleged demonic possession.

How Anneliese Michel Died and What the German Courts Ruled

Anneliese Michel died on July 1, 1976, at 23, weighing 68 pounds and in a severely deteriorated physical condition. Historical reconstructions link her death to malnutrition and exhaustion, but the controversy went beyond religious belief and focused on the decisions of those involved in her care.

After hearing the exorcism recordings in 1978, a German court convicted her parents and the two priests who had taken part in the exorcisms of negligent homicide and handed them suspended three-year sentences, as the case examined the responsibility of the adults around her and the lack of proper medical care while her health worsened.

With an average of 50 books a year, the billionaire often reviews what he reads on Goodreads, shares his recommendations through his personal blog, Gates Notes, and has also explained in press interviews how he practices marginalia while reading.

What Bill Gates has said about the importance of reading in his life

In a 2017 interview with Time, the billionaire said his reading habits were an essential part of achieving success. “Reading fuels a sense of curiosity about the world, which I think helped drive me forward in my career” he said.

In his view, constant learning is essential to both personal and professional growth.

In that sense, while he generally prefers nonfiction books, he said that “good fiction can take you out of your own thoughts and into someone else’s.”

Marginalia: How Bill Gates reads

Although many people choose electronic reading options for convenience, Bill Gates has on several occasions said he prefers physical books so he can write notes in the margins.

As a kind of “study method,” he said this practice lets him really focus on what he is reading and absorb the information as well as possible.

While he does this when he is enjoying a book, he also explained that this habit becomes especially important when he disagrees with the author. “Sometimes I spend more time reading a book I can’t stand than one I love.”

More of Bill Gates’ reading habits

As a rule, Gates has shared that:

• He does not let himself start a book he knows he will not finish
• He usually reads for about an hour each night to keep making progress on his reading

Bill Gates’ recommendations for 2026

While the billionaire has published a large number of reviews and specific recommendation lists, his summer 2026 list included the following:

• Fiction pick: Culpability, by Bruce Holsinger
• Nonfiction pick: 929: Inside the Greatest Crash in Wall Street History—And How It Shattered a Nation by Andrew Ross Sorkin
• Audiobook pick: Gray Matters: A Biography of Brain Surgery, by Theodore H. Schwartz

According to the SSA on its official website, the money can be paid to an eligible surviving spouse. If there is no eligible spouse, certain children may also qualify for the payment.

Who can receive the $255 Social Security payment?

According to the SSA, the surviving spouse could receive the $255 benefit. Even if they did not live in the same household as the deceased person, they may still qualify if they are entitled to benefits based on the deceased person’s Social Security record.

If there is no eligible spouse, some children may qualify for the money if they meet any of the following conditions:

• They are 17 or younger.
• They are 18 or 19 and attend elementary or secondary school full time (K-12).
• They are of any age, as long as they became disabled at age 21 or younger.

The SSA says this is a one-time payment, so it is not a monthly benefit for survivors.

How do you apply for the $255 lump-sum death payment?

The Social Security Administration has a process for applying for this benefit through its website.

To begin the application, interested people can go to the official lump-sum death payment page and select the option to continue. The system will ask them to sign in to their account.

Those who need help in Spanish or other languages can also contact the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 and press 7 to receive service in that language.

Phone service is available Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., in most U.S. time zones. Deaf or hard-of-hearing people can use the number 1-800-325-0778.

What is the deadline to apply for the $255 payment?

Eligible family members must apply for the benefit within two years of the insured person’s death.

The SSA sets this deadline for filing applications, although it does allow certain exceptions that can extend the time limit. That is why it is important to start the process on time so you do not lose the chance to receive the money.

The IRS continues to carry out tax audits, collection activities and criminal investigations. Depending on the case, an employee may need to examine financial records, discuss unpaid tax liabilities, obtain information or take an enforcement action.

In July 2023, the agency announced a major policy change: it would end most unannounced visits by revenue officers, replacing them with scheduled appointments. The policy was introduced to improve safety and reduce confusion caused by scammers impersonating IRS employees.

The change did not eliminate in-person visits. The IRS still sends employees to homes and businesses when their official duties require it, and a small number of exceptional situations can involve visits without prior notice.

Why could the IRS visit a taxpayer’s home?

The IRS identifies different types of employees who may conduct in-person visits, each with a specific role. The circumstances depend on the purpose of the contact and the taxpayer’s situation.

1. To examine tax returns and financial records

Revenue agents conduct civil tax examinations, commonly known as audits. They review financial records and other documentation to determine whether the information reported on a tax return is accurate.

According to the IRS, these employees may meet taxpayers at an IRS office or visit their homes, businesses or accountants’ offices. The agency generally contacts taxpayers by mail before an examination-related visit.

An audit does not automatically mean that the taxpayer committed fraud or will owe additional taxes. Its purpose is to review the information reported and determine whether it complies with tax rules.

2. To collect unpaid taxes or obtain missing returns

Revenue officers handle certain collection cases involving unpaid tax balances and unfiled tax returns. Their work can include reviewing a taxpayer’s financial situation, discussing payment options and helping resolve outstanding obligations.

The IRS generally contacts taxpayers before these visits. A revenue officer may send Letter 725-B, which schedules a meeting and identifies the assigned employee, or call to arrange an appointment under the agency’s procedures.

Meetings may take place at an IRS office, a business, a taxpayer’s residence or by telephone. If a taxpayer does not respond to repeated attempts to make contact, the case may continue through the collection process and could lead to enforcement actions.

3. During a criminal tax investigation

Special agents from IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) investigate suspected tax crimes and related financial offenses, including money laundering.

Unlike ordinary revenue officers, these special agents are sworn federal law enforcement officers. The IRS states that they may contact people by phone or visit them without an appointment as part of a criminal investigation.

These visits are different from routine civil tax collection or an ordinary audit. The presence of an IRS-CI special agent does not, by itself, establish that a person has been found guilty of a crime.

4. To inspect businesses subject to fuel tax regulations

The IRS also employs fuel inspectors who work with businesses and facilities involved in the production, storage and distribution of taxable fuel.

According to the agency, these inspectors may conduct unannounced visits at regulated locations, including refineries, terminals, wholesalers, retailers and certain end users. Their responsibilities include gathering information, conducting interviews and helping ensure compliance with fuel tax laws.

This category applies to specific regulated industries rather than to ordinary household tax returns.

When can the IRS show up without prior notice?

The 2023 policy change ended most unannounced visits by revenue officers, but the IRS maintains limited exceptions.

According to the agency’s official guidance, these situations can include:

• Serving summonses or subpoenas: Employees may need to deliver legal documents as part of an official proceeding.
• Certain enforcement actions: The IRS may conduct an unannounced visit in connection with a planned asset seizure or related action, particularly when assets could be moved beyond the government’s reach.
• Certain criminal investigations: IRS-CI special agents may make unannounced contact as part of their investigative duties.
• Fuel compliance inspections: Inspectors may visit regulated fuel facilities without scheduling an appointment.

The IRS’s Internal Revenue Manual also provides for limited exceptions when an unannounced field visit is considered necessary to protect the government’s interests, subject to the applicable approval procedures.

How to verify whether an IRS employee is legitimate

Because scammers sometimes impersonate federal tax officials, the IRS advises taxpayers to verify anyone who claims to represent the agency.

The official guidance recommends taking these precautions:

• Ask to see official identification. Revenue officers, revenue agents and fuel inspectors carry IRS-issued credentials. Criminal Investigation special agents present law enforcement credentials.
• Verify the appointment independently. If you receive Letter 725-B, use the contact information on the letter to confirm or reschedule the meeting. If you are unsure whether the letter is genuine, contact the IRS through its official website or customer service channels.
• Be cautious of threats and urgent demands. The IRS warns that scammers may threaten arrest or demand immediate payment. Taxpayers should verify the contact rather than rely on the caller’s claims.
• Do not provide sensitive information through social media messages. The IRS says it does not contact taxpayers through social media direct messages to request personal or financial information.

Taxpayers who are unsure about an employee’s identity can consult the IRS’s official guidance on how to recognize legitimate IRS contact.

The agency’s rules make clear that home visits remain part of federal tax administration, but they are not all carried out for the same reason. The type of employee, the purpose of the visit and whether advance notice is required depend on the circumstances of the case.

It is Form 710 (Mortgage Assistance Application), a document designed to assess assistance options for certain mortgage loans.

The procedure for borrowers facing financial problems and needing help making their payments. However, not everyone can use the same form, and filing it does not guarantee that a home foreclosure will be stopped; the assistance available depends on the loan’s terms and on each case’s review.

The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) publishes the official document and its translated versions for those who need to review the requirements.

Who can apply for Form 710 to receive mortgage assistance in the United States

Homeowners who are struggling to pay their mortgage, such as those experiencing a drop in income or higher household expenses, can submit Form 710 so the company that services their loan can determine what assistance options may be available.

The form was prepared by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac and is posted on the official Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) website.

The form is tied to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loans, so borrowers should verify whether their mortgage qualifies. Those with loans from other lenders may also have access to assistance options, but they must check which application applies to their case.

How to complete Form 710 and what documents homeowners must submit

Form 710 asks for information so the mortgage servicer can understand the borrower’s situation and assess the available options. The official Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac document includes the following sections:

• Personal information: the borrower’s and co-borrower’s name, when applicable, contact information, and the last four digits of the Social Security number.
• Property information: the property’s address, type of residence, occupancy status, and whether the owner wants to keep it or sell it.
• Financial hardship: an explanation of the reasons the borrower is having trouble paying the mortgage.
• Income and financial situation: information about the household’s financial resources and supporting documentation, as applicable.
• Additional documentation: proof of income and other records the servicer needs to evaluate the request.

Homeowners must complete the form and send it along with the required documents to the company that services their loan (mortgage servicer). Official instructions allow it to be submitted by mail, fax, or digital means, depending on the channels provided by that company.

Form 710 is available in Spanish on the FHFA’s official website. Before sending it, it is a good idea to check with the mortgage servicer which supporting documents it needs and whether there is an alternate application for that mortgage.

What happens after Form 710 is filed and whether it can stop a home foreclosure

Once the request is received, the mortgage servicer reviews the information to determine what assistance options may be available.

Form 710 says the borrower will be contacted within five business days to confirm receipt and be told whether additional documentation is needed. That deadline applies to the acknowledgment of receipt, not to approval for assistance.

Depending on the circumstances and the loan terms, the review may make it possible to consider alternatives to make payments or prevent the situation from moving toward foreclosure.

That’s why anyone receiving foreclosure notices or facing an auction date should contact the loan servicer as soon as possible to learn what deadlines and protections may apply. FHFA also offers official mortgage assistance resources, including tools to check whether Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac owns the mortgage.

According to the University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, a dog may bark out of fear or anxiety; to defend territory; to seek attention; or in response to play or the barking of other dogs, and there are ways to curb this behavior at home without special tools.

The trick to get your dog to stop barking: how to change this behavior with games

The institution says there are “games” to grab your pet’s attention that can be taught to interrupt unwanted behaviors, such as excessive barking.

One of them is calling the dog when it starts barking. Asking it to come over helps capture its attention “even in situations of high arousal”. It is a simple trick that is easy to use.

Another option is teaching the dog to touch its nose to your hand, since this command also shifts its attention to an alternative activity and stops it from barking.

Other expert recommendations to curb unwanted barking

In addition, among the university’s recommendations are:

• Make sure the dog is getting enough physical activity and stimulation
• Positively reinforce good behavior. For example, reward the moment when the dog stops barking.

Another recommended technique is to use desensitization and counterconditioning. This means first introducing the dog to a stimulus that usually triggers barking -for example, another dog it is afraid of- so gradually that it does not even notice it. The intensity of the exposure should increase over time, but not to the point that it causes barking.

Likewise, and just as gradually, each time the dog approaches this stimulus, it should be rewarded so it begins to associate the situation with something positive rather than a moment of stress or tension.

The transplant gave him five more years of life. But in 2024, seven years after their story began, Bill died from complications following an unrelated surgery. Despite the loss, the bond between their families lives on.

The firefighter who came to her daughter’s rescue

Two years before the donation, Bundy called 911 when her daughter, Hadley, suffered a seizure at just one year old. Bill Cox was among the first responders who arrived at her home and helped during the emergency.

Bundy remembered that Cox seemed genuinely concerned about her daughter, rather than treating the incident as just another call. She never forgot the firefighter who had been there for her family.

Their paths crossed again in the fall of 2018, when Bundy spotted Cox tending bar. He was wearing a T-shirt asking for a kidney donor because he was suffering from end-stage kidney failure.

“I couldn’t get it out of my head,” Bundy recalled. She felt she could finally thank the man who had helped her daughter.

A kidney donation that gave him five more years

Bundy volunteered to be tested and discovered that she was a compatible donor. The transplant took place in February 2019 at the University of Minnesota Medical Center.

After the surgery, Cox no longer needed dialysis and was able to resume his retirement with his wife, Terry. Before the operation, he had carved a wooden angel for Bundy as a gesture of gratitude.

The donation also brought the two families closer. Cox and his wife began attending softball games at the school where Bundy coached, while drawings by Bundy’s children became part of the Coxes’ home.

For Bundy, the experience created a bond she believed would last a lifetime. Cox’s wife later said the donated kidney gave him five great years.

Seven years later, their bond remains

Cox died in 2024 after suffering complications from a surgery unrelated to his kidney transplant. His death marked a heartbreaking chapter in a story that had begun with a mother’s desperate call for help and grown into an extraordinary act of generosity.

But the connection between the families did not end with his passing. Terry Cox remains close to Bundy and her family, continuing to attend the girls’ games.

“I’m so glad we’ve had that relationship and have been able to keep that going,” Terry said. “They’re a wonderful family.”

There is also good news about Hadley, the little girl Cox helped when she was one year old. She is now a healthy sixth grader and no longer suffers from seizures.

What you need before you start

The process is quick, but it helps to have on hand some bank account details for the account where you want to receive the payment:

• The Social Security number.
• The bank routing number.
• The type of account (checking or savings).
• The account number.

That information is usually found on the bottom of a check or in the bank’s app or online banking.

Step by step: how to set it up from my Social Security

If you already receive benefits and have a bank account, the easiest way is to do it online:

• Log in to your personal My Social Security account, or create one if you do not already have one.
• Select the blue Benefits & Payment Details link on the right side of the screen.
• Scroll down to Update Direct Deposit and indicate whether you are the account holder or a co-holder.
• Enter the bank information and click Next.
• Review and verify the information, click Submit and then Done.

From the My Profile tab, you can also choose when the change takes effect.

Fuente: Shutterstock

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What happens to beneficiaries who do not have a bank account

Direct deposit requires a bank account, but people without one are not left out of the system. In those cases, there is the Direct Express card, a prepaid debit card where the SSA deposits the payment automatically each month, with no bank needed.

The Go Direct line (1-800-333-1795) and Treasury resources provide guidance on this option and on how to open an account if preferred.

In the United States, debts are paid from the deceased person’s estate, not from the pockets of the heirs.

Do heirs inherit debt?

The basic rule is clear: The debts of a person who dies are paid with the money and assets they left behind, that is, from their estate.

Family members, including children and a spouse, generally are not responsible for paying those debts out of their own money.

In practice, during probate, the deceased person’s assets are used to pay what they owed, and only after that is whatever remains distributed among the heirs. If nothing is left, there is no inheritance, but family members also do not have to pay out of pocket.

What if the debts are greater than the inherited assets?

In that case, the estate becomes insolvent and, in general, the debts simply go unpaid. According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), if the estate cannot pay, the debt usually is not collected, and family members are not required to cover it themselves.

When a family member CAN be required to pay inherited debt

Here is the fine print worth knowing, because there are situations in which a person can be responsible for the deceased person’s debt:

• If they signed as a co-signer on a loan with the deceased person. If they were a joint account or credit card holder. Being an “authorized user” on the card does not count as being a co-holder.
• If they are the surviving spouse in a community property state, where they may share responsibility for certain debts incurred during the marriage.
• If they live in a state with “necessaries” laws, which hold a spouse responsible for certain essential costs, such as health care.

Outside these cases, the debt is owed only by the deceased person’s estate, not by family members.

Duo owners around the world have posted photos on social media, including Reddit, showing the same horizontal crack across the 7.6-inch inner display. It sits about two-thirds of the way down when the phone is open. Apple has not said how many devices are affected.

The Duo starts at $1,999 and is the biggest redesign in the iPhone’s nearly 20-year history. It arrives seven years after Samsung’s first Galaxy Fold.

It is also an early test for CEO John Ternus, who succeeded Tim Cook in September and holds his first earnings call Nov. 2. Samsung has already run an ad pitching its own foldables as thinner, lighter and years ahead.

What should iPhone Duo owners do about Crackgate?

Apple says owners with display problems should contact AppleCare, its support and repair service, for a replacement. “We are aware of an issue impacting the inner display on a small number of iPhone Duo units,” the company said.

Apple’s optional AppleCare+ and AppleCare One plans cover manufacturing defects with no service fee, while accidental damage carries a fee. Apple hasn’t said what owners without a plan will pay, and it hasn’t announced a recall.

So far, the cause seems to be unknown.

Foldable screens have failed before. Some review units of Samsung’s first Galaxy Fold broke in 2019. Ternus has said Apple waited to enter the market so it could get the display and hinge right.

How does Crackgate compare with Antennagate and Bendgate?

In 2010, iPhone 4 owners found that holding the phone a certain way weakened the signal and dropped calls. Then-CEO Steve Jobs first suggested users were holding it wrong, and Apple later gave away free bumper cases.

In 2014, Bendgate complaints claimed the aluminum bodies of the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus could bend, even inside a pocket. Apple called such cases extremely rare.

Documents released in a 2018 lawsuit showed Apple’s own tests had found the iPhone 6 was 3.3 times more likely to bend than the iPhone 5s, and the 6 Plus 7.2 times more likely. Apple moved to stronger aluminum for the iPhone 6s but denied a link to bending.

This time, Apple acknowledged the problem within days.

Which other Apple launch flaws came before Crackgate?

Several of Apple’s best-known launch flaws came from software, services and laptops:

• MobileMe (2008): Apple’s first cloud syncing service launched with outages, failed syncs and slow performance. iCloud later replaced it.
• Apple Maps (2012): Apple’s own maps app, which replaced Google Maps in iOS 6, was full of errors. Apple apologized and pointed users to rival apps.
• Butterfly keyboard (2015): Apple’s ultrathin laptop keys often stuck or stopped working. Apple ran a repair program, apologized in 2019 and returned to a scissor-style design.

Crackgate is also the second problem tied to Apple’s 2026 iPhones. Earlier this year, some AT&T customers who bought the iPhone 18 Pro Max permanently lost cellular service. Apple released a software fix to keep the problem from spreading.

In New York, the law provides different ways to establish the parentage of a child born outside marriage, including through a court ruling or evidence that can prove the relationship with the deceased father. Article 4-1.2 of the Estates, Powers, and Trusts Law sets out the conditions under which the child may have inheritance rights.

However, proving paternity does not guarantee that a child will receive a share of the inheritance in every case. The child’s rights depend on the circumstances of the estate, whether there is a will and the applicable rules.

How a child who was never recognized by their father can claim an inheritance

In New York, a child born outside marriage may have the right to inherit from their deceased father, even if they were never recognized during his lifetime.

Even so, to take part in the estate, they must establish parentage legally, in other words, prove that a legal father-child relationship exists. That is set out in Article 4-1.2 of the Estates, Powers and Trust Law (EPT), the state law that governs inheritance by children born outside marriage.

A court ruling establishing paternity, a formal acknowledgment of parentage that meets legal requirements, or clear and convincing evidence such as genetic test results can all be ways to prove that relationship.

State courts also explain that legal paternity can affect inheritance rights because, in its official guide on paternity, the New York Unified Court System says that when parents are not married, the biological father does not automatically become the legal father because the relationship must be established through a valid acknowledgment or a court order of filiation.

In some circumstances, the process can begin even after the alleged father’s death.

What share of the inheritance an unrecognized child can receive compared with the other children

If the child successfully establishes parentage legally, they can join the group of heirs entitled to receive assets from their father.

That can change the distribution the family expected, because the estate must include all heirs whose rights are recognized by law. Even so, the outcome depends on the family circumstances and whether there is a will.

When a person dies without leaving a will in New York, distribution is governed by Article 4-1.1 of the EPT. According to the state courts’ official guide, if the deceased leaves a spouse and children, the spouse receives the first $50,000 and half of the remaining estate; the children split the rest, but if another child is proven to also have inheritance rights, their inclusion can change each child’s share.

This can happen as long as the inheritance rights of the unrecognized child are established and the rule that applies to the case is then followed. In addition, the distribution rule cited applies to intestate estates in New York and should not be extended to other states or to all types of inheritances.

Children can claim part of the inheritance if there is a will that does not mention them

The situation changes when the deceased left a will that divides assets among other family members. In New York, establishing paternity legally does not guarantee that the child will receive a share of the inheritance, since state law does not generally recognize an automatic right for adult children to a portion of their parents’ estates when they chose to leave them out of their will.

That is how the case law published by the state courts explains it in Brown v. Dreyfus, which examines the inheritance rights of children born outside marriage.

However, not all cases are the same because New York law includes protections for certain children who were left out of a will because they were born after it was written.

So before concluding that the child has no right to make a claim, the circumstances under which the will was executed and the rules that apply to the case must be reviewed.

It is important to note that most of the time, these meetings will be announced through official letters or calls, but if they are ignored, they can still take place. The agency also explains how to tell whether a visit is legitimate.

In-person visits will follow when communications are repeatedly ignored

One reason agents may make visits is as part of an active collection process, to intervene and resolve unfiled returns and unpaid taxes.

“They tell you about your rights, obligations, options, and consequences,” the authorities explain.

These IRS employees dress in plain clothes and, before making a visit, send Letter 725-B or call repeatedly to arrange an in-person meeting, but if the communications and notices are not answered, the agency says the visit still takes place.

At these meetings, the amount owed can be paid to the officer in cash, by check, certified funds, or money order, or through an online payment.

Other situations in which the IRS can make a visit with officials

The government agency says visits may also be made by:

• Revenue agents: civilian employees who help conduct audits. They always make contact in advance through official channels.
• Special agents: they investigate tax and financial crimes. They can also make unannounced visits as part of criminal investigations.
• Fuel compliance officers: they visit industrial sites where taxable fuel is produced or stored. They can also make unscheduled visits.

IRS agents carry special identification: key information everyone should know

All IRS agents carry an official credential issued by the tax agency and an HSPD-12 card.

Authorities explain that both documents have a serial number and the employee’s photo. The taxpayer can ask to see both.

If you suspect the visit is not legitimate, the official instruction is to call 911.

This compensation reaches current and former clients whose personal information has been exposed in these cybersecurity incidents. The US District Court for the Northern District of Texas granted final approval of a $177million class action settlement on October 2, 2026.

AT&T will send finance checks worth up to $2,500 or $5,000, depending on the damage

Although AT&T did not admit to any wrongdoing, it agreed to pay $177million to resolve the claims and compensate all affected individuals.

The first data breach occurred in March 2024, and a lot of personal information, such as Social Security Numbers (SSNs), phone numbers, and addresses, was leaked.

The second breach occurred in July 2024 and involved records related to customers’ calls and text messages.

Eligible claimants can receive up to $5,000 for documented financial losses related to the March incident or up to $2,500 for losses linked to the July breach. However, these amounts are maximum limits, not guaranteed payments.

Claimants had to provide supporting documentation showing that their losses were attributable to the data breach.

AT&T settlement payments range from $6.50 to $40 for other claimants

Customers who filed valid claims but did not submit documentation of financial losses are eligible for tiered cash payments. The amount depends on which breach affected them and, for the March incident, whether their Social Security numbers were exposed.

The estimated payments are:

• Tier 1: Between $39 and $40 for eligible claimants whose Social Security numbers were exposed in the March breach.
• Tier 2: Between $7.50 and $8.10 for eligible claimants affected by the March breach whose Social Security numbers were not exposed.
• Tier 3: Between $6.50 and $7.10 for eligible claimants affected by the July breach.

These amounts are estimates rather than guaranteed payments. The final distributions depend on the number of valid claims and the costs covered by the settlement fund.

The deadline to file a claim was December 18, 2025, so the settlement does not represent a new opportunity to apply for compensation. Payments may be issued electronically or by paper check, depending on the option selected when the claim was submitted.

According to Harley-Davidson Insurance, there is a way to remove rust from chrome parts using two common household items: white vinegar and aluminum foil. The technique can be used to treat affected areas and restore their shine without initially turning to specialized rust removers.

How do you remove rust spots with vinegar and aluminum foil?

According to Harley-Davidson, white vinegar helps loosen rust from the surface, while aluminum foil can be used to rub the affected areas. The company explains that aluminum is softer than chrome, making it suitable for this process if used gently.

To use this method, follow these steps:

• Prepare the surface: Remove built-up dirt with water and a mild detergent before starting.
• Cut the aluminum foil: Tear off a small piece that is easy to handle.
• Soak it in white vinegar: Dampen the foil with the liquid before applying it.
• Rub gently: Run the aluminum foil over the rusted areas to help remove the spots.
• Repeat as needed: Use another piece of foil and more vinegar if the material wears out or dries.
• Check the results: See whether any rust remains and repeat the process on stubborn spots.

According to the company’s explanation, this process can help remove surface oxidation and improve the appearance of chrome parts. However, the result will depend on the condition of the surface and the extent of wear on the coating.

What precautions should you take to avoid damaging chrome surfaces?

Harley-Davidson warns that, although chrome is durable, it can be scratched or damaged if materials that are too abrasive are used. For that reason, it recommends cleaning carefully and avoiding hard objects.

Its main recommendations include:

• Remove dirt before rubbing to avoid scratches.
• Do not use abrasive cleaners or rough materials.
• Use clean microfiber cloths to dry and polish surfaces.
• Clean regularly to prevent dirt buildup and corrosion.

In addition, once the process is finished, the company says a coat of car wax can be applied as additional protection. This step is optional and helps preserve the finish and make future cleanings easier.

The guide also warns that overpolishing can wear down the chrome coating. That is why regular maintenance and careful cleaning are important to preserve the shine of these surfaces.

Minaj, 43, flew with the president to a campaign rally Sunday in Port Huron, Michigan, ahead of the Nov. 3 midterm elections. On stage, she said it was an honor to stand with Trump, urged support for Republican candidates and described the midterms as a major turning point for the country.

The press secretary buzz started as a joke, not an announcement. The White House has not named anyone to the post, which opened when Katie Zacharia stepped down after five days in the job.

What has Nicki Minaj said about being a US citizen?

During a livestream in 2024, Minaj told viewers plainly: “I’m not a citizen of America. Isn’t that crazy?” She pointed to the taxes she had paid in the U.S. as a reason she felt she had earned citizenship.

Her tone changed in January, when she joined Trump at an event promoting his administration’s Trump Accounts initiative. Afterward, she shared an image of a Trump Gold Card on X and wrote, “Finalizing that citizenship paperwork as we speak,” adding that she hadn’t paid for the card.

A White House spokesperson later told The Hill that the card was a memento, not a visa document. Minaj has not said whether she completed naturalization, the legal process through which a green card holder becomes a citizen.

The question matters days before an election she is campaigning in. Only U.S. citizens can vote in federal elections, so permanent residency on its own would not let her cast a ballot Nov. 3.

Where is Nicki Minaj from, and how did she come to the US?

Minaj was born Onika Tanya Maraj-Petty on Dec. 8, 1982, in Saint James, a neighborhood of Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago. She moved to the U.S. as a young child and grew up in Queens, New York.

She has said she arrived without legal authorization at age 5. She shared that in 2018 while criticizing the first Trump administration for separating migrant families at the U.S.-Mexico border, writing that she couldn’t picture being taken from her parents in a strange country.

According to published accounts of her immigration history, she later became a lawful permanent resident. She went on to study at New York’s Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts before rising through mixtapes and signing with the label Young Money.

Her politics have since swung sharply. In January, the same artist who once condemned Trump’s border policy called herself “probably the president’s No. 1 fan” and said criticism only made her support him more.

Is Nicki Minaj really Trump’s next press secretary?

There’s no sign of it. The idea traces back to a clip White House communications director Steven Cheung posted on X during the flight to Michigan, in which he quizzed Minaj about Trump while she replied in the manner of an official spokesperson.

Cheung captioned the video: “Ladies and gentlemen, I think we may have found the new White House Press Secretary!” Minaj reposted it with an American flag emoji, and Trump adviser Alex Bruesewitz asked her fan base, known as the Barbz, what they thought of the idea.

Traders aren’t betting on it. On Kalshi, a prediction market where users wager on outcomes, Minaj had a 3% chance of getting the job, fourth behind deputy press secretary Anna Kelly, commentator Scott Jennings and former Trump campaign adviser Danielle Alvarez. Polymarket put her at 2%.

Those odds reflect wagers, not reporting or polling. Neither the White House nor Minaj has indicated the suggestion was anything more than a joke.

According to the magazine Architectural Digest, the deal was completed in early 2024 through a private agreement, without the home being publicly listed on the real estate market.

What is the house Bad Bunny bought from Ariana Grande in Los Angeles like?

The property is in Bird Streets, a residential section of Los Angeles known for homes perched in the Hollywood Hills.

The residence was originally built in 1946 and has just under 148 square meters of interior space. Unlike some of the singer’s other properties, it is a single-story home.

Its main features include:

• Three bedrooms and two bathrooms.
• An angular-design pool.
• A garage with space for two vehicles.
• A large outdoor patio.
• Three hillside lots totaling about 0.74 hectares.

According to Architectural Digest, the home was remodeled in 2020 and combines rustic elements with a contemporary style. It is also surrounded by greenery and has private access that helps maintain the privacy of its occupants.

How much did Ariana Grande pay for the property before selling it to Bad Bunny?

Before the deal with Bad Bunny, Ariana Grande had bought the property in 2021 for $8.9 million.

The American singer bought the home in a private transaction and, according to real estate reports, had considered building a larger house there with her then-partner, real estate agent Dalton Gomez.

However, the property was ultimately sold to the Puerto Rican artist for $8.3 million, a figure $600,000 less than the price Grande had paid three years earlier.

What other properties does Bad Bunny have in Los Angeles?

The house that belonged to Ariana Grande was not Bad Bunny’s first real estate purchase in California.

In 2023, the performer bought a residence in Hollywood Hills for $8.8 million, located near Sunset Strip.

This property is considerably larger. It has about 679 square meters of living space, split between a five-bedroom main house and a separate two-bedroom guesthouse.

It also has a fully equipped kitchen, large windows, entertainment spaces, and an infinity pool with an integrated spa.

The New York Department of Financial Services (DFS) offers on its official website a checklist that includes 10 discount categories policyholders can review to see whether they qualify and potentially save money.

What discounts can apply to a car insurance policy?

There are 10 types of discounts that can help you save when buying insurance:

• 1- Defensive driving course: for completing a crash prevention course.
• 2- Passive restraint devices: for having safety features such as automatic seat belts or airbags.
• 3- Anti-lock brakes: for having an ABS braking system installed.
• 4- Anti-theft devices: for having security systems that help prevent theft.
• 5- Driver training: for completing driver education courses.
• 6- Multi-vehicle discount: for insuring more than one car.
• 7- Retirees and seniors: for driving less, depending on the insurer’s terms.
• 8- Daytime running lights: for having lights that stay on during the day.
• 9- Safe driving: for maintaining an accident-free driving record.
• 10- Multi-policy discount: for buying several insurance policies from the same insurer.

What information must be verified to get insurance?

Among the details that must be verified when applying for auto insurance are:

• The geographic area where the vehicle is used or registered.
• Make, model, year, and VIN.
• Age of the primary driver.
• Whether there is a young driver in the household.
• Whether the car will be used for work.
• History of points from traffic violations and accidents.

What are the mandatory minimum coverage requirements in New York?

The minimum coverage required for every car registered and currently plated in New York is:

• Bodily injury liability: $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident.
• Property damage liability: $10,000.
• Personal injury protection (PIP): $50,000.
• Uninsured motorists: $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident.

Optional coverage limits in New York

Additional coverage options that can be purchased for greater protection include:

• Additional no-fault coverage (PIP): extra personal injury protection coverage.
• OBEL: $25,000 (the only available option).
• Supplementary uninsured/underinsured motorists coverage (SUM): additional limits can be purchased up to the amount of the insured’s bodily injury liability coverage.
• Towing service.
• Rental car reimbursement.
• Spousal liability: if purchased, this coverage is included within the bodily injury liability limit.

How the IRS automatic levy works

The mechanism is called the Federal Payment Levy Program (Federal Payment Levy Program or FPLP). It is an automated system: the IRS sends the Treasury Department a list of taxpayers with overdue tax debts, and the Treasury deducts a percentage of their federal payments before depositing them. In the case of Social Security, that deduction can reach up to 15% of each monthly check, and it is applied without a court order.

Who is affected and who is exempt

The levy applies to Social Security retirement and survivor benefits. The FPLP does not set a debt threshold: it establishes a cap on how much can be withheld (15%), not a minimum amount owed. In other words, it can kick in even with relatively small debts.

There are important exemptions worth knowing:

• Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments are exempt: because it is a needs-based program, they are protected and cannot be levied under the FPLP.
• Social Security disability benefits (SSDI) stopped being automatically levied under this program in 2015, although the IRS can still do so through other channels in specific cases.

Beyond Social Security, the FPLP can also reach other federal payments, such as federal government pensions, military retirement pay and certain benefits, with the same 15% cap.

The advance notice everyone needs to address on time

Even though the program is automatic, the IRS does not act without warning. Before starting the levy, it sends a notice, CP91 or CP298, called the “Final Notice Before Levy on Social Security Benefits”, usually about 30 days before the deductions begin. That window is crucial: it is the chance to respond and, if possible, stop the levy.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) cannot stop the levy. The process to resolve it is handled directly with the IRS, at the number listed on the notice.

How to stop the automatic levy

Within that period, and also afterward, there are several options to stop or avoid the levy:

• Request a Collection Due Process (CDP) hearing. If filed within 30 days of the notice, it suspends the start of the levy while the case is reviewed.
• Pay the debt in full, if possible.
• Set up an installment agreement, which once in effect lifts the levy.
• Submit an offer in compromise for those who qualify to settle for less than the full amount.
• Ask for Currently Not Collectible status if the levy creates a real financial hardship: that suspends collection while the situation lasts, although the debt remains in place.

In an article shared in March last year by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Pell, at 100, recounted one of the biggest ordeals he faced during his service: he was in a plane crash and had to spend several hours surrounded by sharks before he was finally rescued.

What was Emerson Pell’s role in the Navy during World War II?

Pell reached the rank of Aviation Machinist Third Class and, according to the account, was part of a 12-member patrol that operated PBM Mariner seaplanes.

During the war, they were tasked with scanning the ocean from the air for German submarines and then attacking them. Pell’s role in that mission was to handle the aircraft’s guns and help repair planes if needed.

His area of operation covered various parts of Central and South America, especially near the Panama Canal and in the Galapagos Islands.

An 11-hour ordeal he survived, surrounded by sharks

During his service, Pell was involved in a plane crash that forced him to spend 11 hours in the water surrounded by sharks.

“We were coming from the Galapagos Islands to the canal area when we started going down and crashed. The engines had water in them; that’s what they theorized,” he explained.

According to his account, the plane hit the ocean surface and bounced before ending up floating. “My job then was to open the hatch on top of the plane and put the life rafts on the wings. But we didn’t need them; the plane floated!” Pell said.

To call for help, the aircraft had a small device to send its location, but because there was no electrical power, they had no way of knowing whether the signal had gotten through.

As time passed, Pell and his fellow crew members began to realize the situation was getting worse and worse: “We could see sharks; I was scared to death,” he said.

After about 11 hours, a destroyer that had left the Panama Canal area and received the distress signal arrived to rescue them.

In 1946, Pell returned to the United States to resume his life. He was married for 64 years, had four children, and died in July 2026 at age 101.

How to clean a kitchen grater with little effort

The tip recommended by Microplane, a manufacturer specializing in graters and kitchen tools, is to rinse the grater with warm water right after using it, instead of leaving it in the sink until you’re done cooking. The idea is to remove any cheese, vegetables and other ingredients before they dry on the metal surface.

If any residue remains, the manufacturer also advises using a cleaning brush after soaking the utensil. It should be brushed in the same direction as the grater’s teeth, an important precaution to avoid direct contact with the blades.

How to keep the grater from moving while in use

The brand recommends placing the box grater on a flat, stable surface, with the non-slip base resting firmly in place. For greater stability, it suggests putting a damp kitchen towel or a cutting board underneath it. It is also important to avoid applying too much pressure and keep your hands away from the blades.

The cleaning company Whistle Clean Australia shares various guides on using natural or alternative cleaning products on its website, such as white vinegar, isopropyl alcohol, and distilled water. The combination of these ingredients makes an effective solution for cleaning glass.

What is the purpose of mixing distilled water, white vinegar, and isopropyl alcohol?

According to Whistle Clean Australia, the combination of distilled water, white vinegar, and isopropyl alcohol is used to clean windows, mirrors, and other glass surfaces without leaving streaks or mineral residue.

The effectiveness of this solution comes from the properties and effects of each ingredient:

• Distilled water lacks the minerals, chlorine, and other substances found in tap water, which are responsible for leaving white marks as it dries.
• White vinegar helps remove certain mineral deposits and dirt stuck to the glass from previous cleanings.
• Isopropyl alcohol dissolves greasy residue and helps it dry quickly, which helps leave streak-free glass.

How should the distilled water, white vinegar, and isopropyl alcohol mixture be prepared?

To make this solution, specific amounts should be used:

• 2 cups of distilled water, about 480 ml.
• 2 tablespoons of white vinegar, or 30 ml.
• 2 tablespoons of isopropyl alcohol, or 30 ml.

First, pour the distilled water into a clean spray bottle, then add the vinegar, and finally the alcohol. Next, close the bottle and mix the ingredients so they blend together. And that’s it — you can now clean normally without leaving streaks.

The company recommends making small batches to avoid storing the solution for long periods of time.

How should glass be cleaned to avoid streaks?

To achieve an even finish, follow these steps:

1. Remove surface dust with a clean cloth.
2. Spray the product sparingly onto the glass.
3. Spread the solution over the entire surface with a microfiber cloth, paying special attention to stained areas.
4. Use the dry side of the cloth or another cloth to avoid leaving drops behind.
5. Finally, go over any areas where marks remain.

It is recommended to avoid cleaning in direct sunlight or with very hot glass, since the solution may evaporate before the cleaning is finished.

Tips for getting the most out of these ingredients

The specialty company recommends following the proportions and using the ingredients correctly. It also advises against mixing it with products such as bleach to avoid generating toxic gases. If you do not use all of the solution, you can seal the container tightly and keep it away from sunlight.

In this regard, a federal program from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) offers financial help for certain cases, and part of that help does not have to be repaid.

It is the Section 504 Home Repair program, which offers grants to homeowners 62 and older with very low incomes so they can remove health and safety hazards from their homes.

How much money does the loan give

According to the USDA, the maximum amount of money the program gives depends on the type of deal:

• Grants: Up to $10,000 with the same amount as lifetime per person. It only needs to be repaid if the property is sold in less than 3 years.
• Loans: Up to $40,000 at a fixed 1% interest rate over 20 years.
• Both can be combined for up to $50,000 in total assistance.

Who qualifies for the homeowner USDA program

To apply, homeowners must meet certain requirements:

• Be unable to get affordable credit elsewhere.
• Have a household income at or below the very low income limit for their county.
• For grants, be 62 or older.

The home must also be located in an eligible rural area. The USDA has an eligibility site where people can check their eligibility. Many large cities do not qualify, but some nearby areas might, so it may be worth checking.

How can the money of the program be used?

The rules are different for each type of help:

• Grants up to $10,000 must be used to remove health and safety hazards at home.
• Loans can be used more broadly to repair, improve, or modernize the home

How to apply?

Applications are accepted year-round through local USDA Rural Development offices. According to the agency, approval times depend on the funding available in each area.

People interested can contact a USDA home loan specialist in their state, who can help them check their eligibility and complete the application.

For many older homeowners, this program can make the difference between staying safely in their homes or having to leave them.

Native to the tropical forests of Central America, there are more than 50 species of this plant, although the best known for indoor decorating is Monstera deliciosa, according to the University of Pennsylvania extension.

With that in mind, to ensure healthy growth, it is essential to know the light conditions it needs so you can then decide the best place to put it.

The perfect place to put a monstera indoors: what conditions it needs

The institution explains that this plant needs warm temperatures ranging from 15 C to 29 C and plenty of light to grow healthily.

The perfect spot will therefore be any place in the office, living room, bedroom or kitchen that lets it receive plenty of bright light, but never direct sun.

Another point to keep in mind is that, because of the conditions in its native habitat, the monstera needs a spot with 50% humidity, so it is also recommended to place it near a humidifier if the environment tends to be dry.

How to water a monstera so it grows healthy indoors

As a general rule, overwatering can rot this plant’s roots. Still, it’s important to give it the amount of water it needs.

The guidance is to wait until 2.5 to 5 cm of the topsoil is completely dry before watering again.

In addition, it is advised to fertilize every two weeks during the growing season and monthly in winter, always using a fertilizer suitable for houseplants.

In addition to helping keep the inside of cabinets in better condition, aluminum can make cleaning easier, since you can remove the foil when it gets dirty and replace it with a new piece. However, for it to be useful, it is important to place it on a clean, dry surface and make sure it covers the bottom of the drawer properly.

What is lining kitchen drawers with aluminum foil for

Lining kitchen drawers with aluminum foil helps protect the surface from food scraps, small grease stains, and accidental spills. The foil acts as a barrier between debris and the cabinet material, which can reduce the dirt that builds up directly on the wood or lining.

According to Tom’s Guide, this trick can make cleaning easier because when the foil gets dirty, you can remove and replace it instead of having to scrub the entire bottom of the drawer.

How to line kitchen drawers with aluminum foil

Before lining the drawer with aluminum foil, you should empty it, remove crumbs, and clean away any grease or dirt. Then, it is necessary to let the surface dry completely, since covering a damp cabinet can lead to moisture-related problems.

The next step is to measure the bottom of the drawer and cut a sheet that covers as much of the surface as possible. It can be carefully fitted into the corners, and the edges can be lifted slightly to help contain small bits of debris, as long as the drawer design allows it.

When to replace the foil in kitchen drawers

The foil should be replaced when it has food residue, grease stains, built-up moisture, tears, or wrinkled areas that keep it from properly covering the surface.

How often depends on how much the drawer is used, since one that is opened constantly or stores utensils that can leave residue will probably need to be changed more often than one that is used less.

According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), travelers may carry medically necessary liquids, gels and aerosols in reasonable quantities for their trip, as long as they declare them to officers during security screening.

What liquid medications can be brought on a plane?

The TSA says liquids in carry-on bags must generally be in containers of up to 100 milliliters (3.4 ounces).

However, medically necessary products are exempt from this limit. These can include liquid medications, insulin and solutions used in medical treatments.

Products that may qualify for this exception include common liquid medications such as Pepto-Bismol, liquid acetaminophen and certain antacids, as long as they are medically necessary and carried in reasonable quantities for the trip.

The allowed amount must be reasonable for the passenger’s needs during the trip. So the exception does not mean any amount can be carried without limits.

What must passengers do to get through security?

Anyone carrying liquid medications in containers larger than 100 milliliters must tell TSA officers when they arrive at the screening checkpoint.

To avoid problems with the TSA, the agency says these products should be declared so staff can inspect them. It also says the medications do not have to be in their original pharmacy containers, though it recommends they be labeled to make inspection easier.

During the process, the medications may be subject to additional security screening. If officers cannot resolve alerts raised during the inspection, they could keep the product from entering the airport secure area.

However, exceeding the usual 100-milliliter limit is not, by itself, grounds to reject a medically necessary liquid medication, as long as it is carried in reasonable quantities and passes the required screening.

From that experience came one of the most influential self-help books of the 20th century: Man’s Search for Meaning. Frankl wrote the book over a nine-day period, and it was released in German in 1946. 13 years later, in 1959, the English translation was published and became an international bestseller.

Frankl saw this success as a symptom of the “mass neurosis of modern times,” since the title promised to deal with the question of life’s meaningfulness.

The importance of attitude when facing challenges

While in the camps, Frankl noticed that the prisoners who found a reason to live were better able to endure suffering. And from this idea comes one of the book’s central hypotheses: When people cannot change what happens to them, they can still decide how to face it.

“When we are no longer able to change a situation—just think of an incurable disease such as inoperable cancer—we are challenged to change ourselves,” he wrote.

In another well-known passage, he added, “Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms—to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way.”

What was Frankl’s reason to keep going

Frankl described how he helped two fellow prisoners who had lost all hope. The key was helping them see that life still expected something from them. For one, it was a child waiting for him abroad; for the other, a series of books he needed to finish.

A person who knows the “why” of their existence, Frankl wrote, “will be able to bear almost any ‘how.’”

What is the difference between happiness and meaning?

Frankl, who founded logotherapy, known as the third Viennese school of psychotherapy after those of Sigmund Freud and Alfred Adler, believed that happiness should not be chased directly. “Happiness cannot be pursued; it must ensue,” he wrote.

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham estimated that recovery expenses in New Mexico could reach $300 million, including debris removal and repairs to roads and bridges. President Donald Trump also announced federal disaster assistance for the state, although New Mexico will have to cover 25% of eligible costs.

The threat extends beyond New Mexico. The Four Corners region, where Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico and Utah meet, has experienced widespread flooding, damaged infrastructure and evacuations. More rain in the forecast could complicate recovery efforts.

New Mexico flooding: why the damage could reach $300 million

The scale of the damage reflects more than flooded homes. Roads have been washed out, bridges and other infrastructure need repairs, and some communities have faced power outages or been cut off by rising water.

At least two people died in New Mexico during the flooding, while hundreds of residents were rescued. In San Juan County, local officials reported that between 200 and 300 people had been rescued in recent days.

Along the San Juan River, families returned to find muddy water inside their homes, damaged furniture and floors that may need to be replaced. Some residents have had to stay with relatives while they determine whether their properties are safe to occupy.

The consequences have also spread into neighboring states. In southern Colorado, flooding affected roads and homes around Pagosa Springs. In southeastern Utah, residents of Bluff faced another evacuation as water levels rose along the San Juan River.

The recovery estimate remains a projection rather than a final accounting. The total will depend on the extent of the damage identified in the coming days and the resources needed to restore roads, bridges and other public infrastructure.

New Mexico weather forecast: when more rain could arrive

The latest National Weather Service forecast, issued by the Albuquerque office on October 27 and updated overnight, points to a relatively quieter period before unsettled weather returns later in the week. River flooding is expected to linger in parts of central and northern New Mexico.

Thursday, October 29, and Friday, October 30

Showers and thunderstorms are expected to become more likely across southeastern New Mexico from Thursday night into Friday. The forecast calls for widespread moderate rain, with the possibility of locally heavier amounts.

Forecasters estimate that many areas east of a line extending from Roswell to Tucumcari could receive around 1 to 1.5 inches of rain, with localized totals potentially reaching 2 to 3 inches.

Additional showers and thunderstorms could develop over central and western parts of the state Friday afternoon and night. Even if rainfall rates are not especially intense, saturated ground could allow water to accumulate and flooding to develop more quickly.

Saturday, October 31, and Sunday, November 1

The risk could expand again over western New Mexico and the broader Four Corners region. Weather systems approaching from the western United States and the Pacific are expected to bring another round of precipitation from Saturday night into Sunday.

Current projections suggest 0.5 to 1 inch of rain across parts of western New Mexico, with amounts of 1 to 1.5 inches possible near higher terrain. However, the location and intensity of the heaviest rainfall remain uncertain.

Higher elevations in northern New Mexico could also see snow, particularly above 10,000 feet, as temperatures fall.

Yellow stains, limescale buildup, and dark marks that appear inside the toilet bowl are among the most common bathroom cleaning problems. However, there is a home method that uses white vinegar, baking soda, and a toilet brush to help remove certain residue without always having to rely on specialty products.

The effectiveness of one of these ingredients is backed by science. A 2021 study, titled A Standardized Test Protocol for Evaluation of Scale Reduction Technologies, examined the ability of the acetic acid in vinegar to dissolve calcium carbonate deposits, one of the main components of limescale. The results showed it was useful against this type of buildup.

How do you clean a toilet with baking soda and vinegar in 15 minutes?

The home method starts with pouring warm water into the bowl, without using boiling water. Then, baking soda is sprinkled over the walls and the areas with visible dirt. Next, white vinegar is added, creating a fizzy reaction when it comes into contact with the baking soda.

To use this method, you can follow five steps:

1. Pour a little warm water into the toilet bowl.
2. Sprinkle baking soda over the stains and the sides of the bowl.
3. Slowly add white vinegar to the affected areas.
4. Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes.
5. Scrub with a toilet brush and flush to remove the residue.

In particular, research published in PubMed Central showed that cleaning vinegar with a 6% acetic acid concentration was able to dissolve calcium carbonate deposits under laboratory conditions. In one test, less than 1% of the original deposit remained after two hours of exposure.

What does science say about removing limescale and toilet stains?

The scientific explanation lies in the composition of mineral deposits. Limescale is made mainly of calcium carbonate, a substance that can react with acids.

The acetic acid in vinegar helps dissolve it, so it can be useful for treating certain buildup that appears on water-exposed surfaces.

However, dark or yellowish stains do not always have the same cause. Some may be linked to mineral deposits, while others are due to organic dirt, built-up residue, or surface damage. That is why vinegar does not produce the same results against all of them.

In addition, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlight the importance of mechanical cleaning to remove dirt and impurities from surfaces. In the case of the toilet, the brush allows friction on the affected areas and removes some of the stuck-on residue. However, cleaning does not necessarily mean disinfecting, since that process requires specific products and conditions.

What the EITC Is and Why It Can Mean a Refund

The EITC is a tax credit designed to reward and help people who work and earn low or moderate incomes. Its big advantage is that it is refundable: that means if the credit is greater than the taxes a person owes, the difference is returned as a refund. In other words, a worker can end up receiving money from the IRS even if their tax bill is low or zero.

The amount each person actually receives depends on three factors: their income, their filing status, and the number of qualifying children. So the projected maximum is a ceiling: not everyone receives that amount, but rather the amount that applies to their situation.

Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) Increase: How Much Is Projected for 2027

The EITC amount depends on the number of qualifying children. These are the confirmed maximum amounts for 2026 and the projected amounts for 2027:

• No children: from $664 (confirmed for 2026) to about $680 (projected for 2027).
• One child: from $4,427 to about $4,538.
• Two children: from $7,316 to about $7,499.
• Three or more children: from $8,231 to about $8,400.

The IRS updates EITC amounts every year in a document called a Revenue Procedure, which it usually publishes between October and November. As of this report, the official figures for 2027 have not yet been released.

That is why the numbers being used are estimates based on inflation, and they may differ by a few dollars from the final figure announced by the agency.

That is why this homemade alternative involves making a paste with two tablespoons of baking soda, a teaspoon of water and a few drops of dish soap. The mix combines the cleaning power of soap with baking soda’s ability to help lift residue with gentle scrubbing.

What the baking soda, water and dish soap mix does for food containers

This mixture is used to clean plastic containers with food stains, grease residue and stuck-on grime. It can be especially useful on food containers used to store sauces, stews and tomato-based dishes, which often leave hard-to-remove orange marks.

Baking soda works as a gentle abrasive that helps loosen residue when the surface is scrubbed. Dish soap, for its part, helps break down grease and makes it easier to rinse away the dirt. Water, meanwhile, helps combine the ingredients and form a paste that can be spread over stained areas.

How to prepare and apply the mixture to remove stains from food containers

To try this homemade method, you need three ingredients that are usually available in the kitchen. The mixture should have a paste-like consistency so it sticks to the stained areas.

The ingredients are:

• 2 tablespoons baking soda.
• 1 teaspoon water.
• A few drops of liquid dish soap.

The steps are simple:

• Make the paste: mix the baking soda with the water and dish soap until you get a thick consistency.
• Apply to the stains: spread the mixture inside the container, especially over orange marks or stuck-on residue.
• Let it sit: wait at least 15 minutes so the paste stays in contact with the surface.
• Scrub gently: use a white sponge to help lift the residue without scratching the plastic.
• Rinse and wash: remove all of the mixture with water and wash the container again with dish soap before using it to store food.

This method is described in Martha Stewart’s guide to tomato stains in plastic containers. If the marks remain, the treatment can be repeated, as long as the material allows it.

Why baking soda helps clean plastic and what precautions to take

Baking soda is a mildly alkaline substance that mainly acts as a gentle abrasive. When scrubbed against the surface, it helps remove food residue without resorting to harsher cleaning products.

To avoid damaging food containers, keep these precautions in mind:

• Do not use steel wool or rough tools, because they can scratch the surface and make it harder to clean later.
• Rinse the container very well after applying the paste to remove all traces of baking soda and dish soap.
• Avoid storing very hot food in plastic containers and check that they are microwave-safe before heating them.

The American Cleaning Institute guide on plastic containers also recommends washing the containers after treating stains.

Why is 11 points a key number

Unlike other systems, New York does not take points away; it adds them. Each violation adds a certain number to a driver’s record depending on how serious it is. Driving more than 40 mph over the limit adds 11 points, which is significant: the DMV can suspend the license of anyone who reaches 11 points within a 24-month period. In other words, this single violation can hit that threshold immediately, without needing any other offenses.

How many points does each speeding violation carry

The DMV assigns points based on how much the speed limit is exceeded:

• 1 to 10 mph over the limit: 3 points.
• 11 to 20 mph over: 4 points. 21 to 30 mph over: 6 points.
• 31 to 40 mph over: 8 points.
• More than 40 mph over the limit: 11 points.

How the point system works

The system assigns points to each traffic violation and counts them from the date the offense was committed, not from the date of conviction. As a reference for other common offenses, reckless driving carries 5 points, and failing to yield the right of way carries 3 points.

Point accumulation has two main consequences:

• License suspension: if a driver accumulates 11 points within 24 months, the DMV can suspend the license.
• The Driver Responsibility Assessment: this is a fee the DMV charges drivers who accumulate 6 or more points in an 18-month period, and it is paid in addition to the fines for each violation.

What does the orange road sign with the black figure of a person holding a flag mean

The sign is part of the group of temporary traffic control devices used in roadwork and work zones. In the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), it appears as the “Flagger” sign (W20-7), which could be translated as flagger or flagman. Its message is clear: ahead, there is a person responsible for stopping and allowing vehicles to proceed in the section where work is underway.

The figure holding a flag is the traditional representation of that flagger. Today, in the United States, flaggers usually use a reversible STOP/SLOW paddle instead of a flag, and newer versions of the sign show that paddle; but the meaning is the same in every case: someone is manually directing traffic.

Why it is important to recognize it

The flagger’s directions have priority over any other sign or signal at the site: if the person says to stop, you must stop, even if the traffic light is green or there is no other stop sign. Recognizing the orange diamond in time lets drivers slow down, stay alert to those hand signals and avoid one of the most dangerous traffic situations.

The reach of this document comes from the fact that it is issued with several security features that help support its validity internationally and nationally, including the number perforated on each of its pages.

What the perforated number in the American passport booklet means and why it’s there

This set of numbers is assigned uniquely to each passport and serves as a kind of distinguishing code for authorities, since in addition to proving authenticity, it makes it possible to identify different passports. It consists of a letter followed by eight numbers.

That unique code is perforated on every page of the American passport to improve security because this method is harder to tamper with than any other, especially considering that these booklets must not have any damage to the information they contain.

Other security features of the passport booklet

In the new design —which began being issued in 2021 and remains in use today— additional security features include:

• Polycarbonate data page
• Laser engraving
• Updated design
• Security fibers

This year, the “patriot passports” also began being issued, a limited run of 250,000 booklets that have the same features and validity as the traditional versions, although they are intended to honor 250 years of independence.

When can old passports no longer be used?

Although all earlier versions are generally valid as proof of citizenship and, in cases where they are still valid, for international travel, that only applies if the booklets are in perfect condition.

Passports with water damage, mold, tears, scratches or any other severe damage not caused by the normal and frequent use of the document are not considered acceptable.

The warning matters because a levy can reach wages, bank accounts and other assets until the correct amount is covered.

The notice also explains the right to request a collection due process hearing. In general, there is a 30-day window from receipt of the LT11 or Letter 1058 to request it, although it is essential to check the deadline and instructions in the notice received.

What Is the IRS LT11 Letter and Who Gets It?

The LT11 letter is a final notice of intent to levy that the IRS sends when a tax debt remains unresolved. The agency has already told the taxpayer there is an outstanding balance, and if it is not paid or a resolution is not reached, it can move forward with collection actions.

The letter can be sent to taxpayers with unpaid federal taxes, including employees, self-employed workers, and business owners, and includes information about the amount claimed, the intent to levy, and the options available to respond.

Why Can the IRS Garnish Wages and Bank Accounts After Sending LT11?

The IRS can use a levy to take certain assets or income and apply them to a tax debt. The measure can affect wages, bank accounts, business income, personal property, and certain state tax refunds.

In some cases, it can also affect other assets, including vehicles, real estate, and Social Security benefits, subject to the applicable legal exceptions.

In addition, the agency may file a federal tax lien, which is a legal claim against the taxpayer’s property and rights to property and can make it harder to get credit.

If the taxpayer does not respond to the LT11 letter or resolve the tax debt, the IRS can move ahead with a levy on wages, bank accounts, and other property. The LT11 also explains the right to request a collection due process hearing before the IRS Independent Office of Appeals.

What Should Taxpayers Do If They Receive an IRS LT11 Letter?

Those who receive an LT11 letter should review the amount claimed, check the deadline, and follow the IRS instructions. Depending on their situation, they may want to consider the following options:

• Verify the debt: Check that the balance is correct and that previous payments are recorded. If they have already paid, they should provide the corresponding proof.
• Request a hearing: If they do not agree with the debt or the collection action, they can request a collection due process hearing using IRS Form 12153. The general deadline is 30 days from receipt of the notice, so they should check the deadline listed in the letter.
• Ask about a payment plan: Those who acknowledge the debt but cannot pay it all at once may request an installment agreement if they qualify. Depending on the circumstances, this may affect the collection actions the IRS can take.
• Seek help: Those who have trouble resolving the issue can turn to the Taxpayer Advocate Service, which helps resolve certain tax problems.

It is worth noting that ignoring the letter does not eliminate the debt or guarantee that collection actions will stop, which is why the taxpayer should review the available options and act within the applicable deadlines.

The symbol is a supplemental roundabout circulation sign, known as a Roundabout Circulation Plaque (R6-5P). Recognizing this sign helps explain how traffic is organized in a roundabout and why it is important to obey yield signs and lane markings.

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) sets guidelines for this type of intersection, where right of way and the direction of travel are essential to road safety.

What Does the Traffic Sign With Three Black Arrows in a Circle on a White Background Mean?

The traffic sign with three black arrows in a circle on a white background indicates the direction of travel within a roundabout.

In the U.S., the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) identifies it as the Roundabout Circulation Plaque, with the code R6-5P, and says its purpose is to guide drivers on how they should travel around the central island of the intersection.

According to section 2B.51 of the federal manual, this sign may be placed below a yield sign at roundabout approaches when there is no suitable place to install another sign on the central island.

What Should Drivers Do When They Come Across This Sign in the United States?

As they approach a roundabout, drivers should pay attention to traffic signs, slow down, and follow yield instructions when they are present.

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) explains that modern roundabouts give priority to vehicles already traveling in the circle, so drivers entering must yield.

Once inside the intersection, drivers must follow the counterclockwise direction indicated by the arrows and obey lane markings and signage.

According to the U.S. State Department, passports issued to children under 16 are valid for five years. Families should check the expiration date before planning international travel.

Why can’t children under 16 renew their passports?

The State Department says passports for children that age cannot be renewed. Instead, each time they need another one, they must file a new application in person.

To complete the process, the DS-11 form must be used. It must be filled out and printed, but not signed until instructed by the acceptance agent.

This rule does not mean children are barred from traveling abroad. They may travel with a valid passport as long as they meet the relevant entry and exit requirements.

What requirements must parents meet to get a new passport?

To apply for a passport for a child under 16, the State Department requires:

• A completed, unsigned DS-11 form.
• Proof of the child’s U.S. citizenship, such as a birth certificate or a prior passport that meets the requirements.
• Documentation proving the legal relationship between the child and the parents or guardians.
• Photo identification for the parents or legal guardians and the corresponding photocopies.
• A photo of the child that meets official requirements.

As a rule, both parents or legal guardians must appear with the child to submit the application.

However, there are exceptions. If one parent cannot attend, a consent statement may be required using Form DS-3053, properly notarized. There are also specific procedures for sole custody cases and other family circumstances.

How much does it cost to apply for a passport for children under 16?

According to the State Department, applying for a U.S. passport book for a child under 16 costs $100, plus a $35 acceptance fee, for a total of $135.

The application must be submitted with the child at an authorized acceptance facility, along with the required documents.

That is why families planning to travel abroad should check the passport’s validity and complete the process early, taking processing and shipping times into account.

The U.S. State Department confirmed that the number on the new passport will be different from the old one. For that reason, anyone planning to travel abroad should know how and where to update this information.

When does the passport number change?

According to information provided on the official website of the State Department, each time a U.S. passport is renewed, a new document is issued with a different number from the previous one.

That means the passport number is assigned to the document issued, not to the person. So this change happens when:

• The passport is renewed.
• A new passport is requested because the person does not meet the eligibility requirements to renew it.

What happens to the previous passport number?

When the renewal application is submitted, the old passport is no longer valid, even if it has not yet expired.

The State Department explains that if the previous document contains a visa that is still needed, it should not be removed and pasted into the new passport. Instead, the traveler should check with the relevant embassy or consulate to see whether it can still be used with the new document.

For that reason, the old number must be replaced in any travel records that require it.

Can I book flights before renewing or receiving the new passport?

According to the Booking.com platform, it is possible to book flights while the passport is being renewed, as long as the new document is available before the travel date.

In this regard, the platform explains that some airlines allow passengers to buy tickets using the old passport details and update them later once the new document is received.

However, this depends on each airline. Some allow the number to be changed during check-in, while others have specific procedures for updating the information before the flight.

How and where should the passport number be updated for travel?

Once the new passport is received, the traveler must update the number in the relevant reservations and travel programs.

The main places where this information should be checked are:

• Trusted Traveler programs, such as Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI.
• Check-in.
• Airlines.
• Visas and immigration documents.

For Trusted Traveler programs, the passport number, issue date, and expiration date must be updated.

Failing to update the passport number on time can cause problems at check-in and delays in identity verification.

In addition, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) can prevent boarding if the document information does not match the information on file with the airline. That is why travelers are advised to review and correct this information before traveling.

Although the traditional recipe includes flour among the ingredients, the McGovern School of Medicine offers an alternative that can be made using only bananas, milk, cocoa powder, and peanut butter.

According to the details, making this version takes just 10 minutes, plus another 20 to bake, so it can be ready to eat in half an hour.

What ingredients are needed to make flourless brownies?

The institution states that this healthier version of the classic chocolate dessert uses:

• 3 bananas, the riper the better
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup peanut butter
• Cooking spray

These proportions are for a 12-serving recipe with 105 calories per serving.

How to make flourless brownies: the ideal recipe

To make this dish, follow the steps below:

• Preheat the oven to 175°C
• Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until you get a smooth mixture (if you do not have a blender, mash the bananas with a fork and combine the ingredients in a medium bowl)
• Spray the baking sheet with cooking spray, making sure all surfaces are covered to prevent sticking
• Pour the batter into the baking sheet
• Bake for 18 to 22 minutes (to check whether the batter is done, insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean)

Another flourless brownie recipe to try

Another option for replacing flour with black beans was provided by the University of Illinois Extension, and it is made with the following ingredients:

• 425 g black beans
• 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 3 tablespoons canola oil
• 3 large eggs
• 2/3 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Step-by-step preparation

• Preheat the oven to 175°C
• Rinse and drain the black beans
• Place the beans, 1/4 of the chocolate chips, and the oil in a food processor and blend until the ingredients are combined.
• Then add the eggs, sugar, cocoa, vanilla extract, and baking powder, and process again
• Pour the batter into a pan lined with parchment paper or coated with cooking spray, and sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips on top
• Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the toothpick comes out clean
• Cut into 12 pieces

According to the nutritional information provided, this version has 167 calories per brownie.

This homemade method stands out for its low cost and practicality, though it is important to use it carefully, since too much moisture can damage materials and make drying harder.

What is vinegar used for on a mattress?

A mattress often collects odors, dust and dirt that do not always come out with a basic cleaning. That is where vinegar comes in, a key ally that helps improve bedroom hygiene, extend the life of the mattress and support deeper, healthier rest.

One of the main reasons to use vinegar in this area is its ability to disinfect and neutralize odors. Although it does not remove stains completely, vinegar loosens dirt and acts as a natural neutralizer, ideal for closed spaces or areas with little ventilation.

Vinegar contains acetic acid, a compound that gives it useful properties for certain cleaning tasks.

Scientific evidence indicates that acetic acid, one of the main components of vinegar, can have an effect on certain residues and microorganisms.

In fact, Tuft & Needle’s mattress cleaning guide includes the use of vinegar, baking soda or mild detergents to treat certain spills and odors.

How to apply it correctly

To take advantage of its benefits, all you need to do is make a simple mixture of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Then, it is recommended to spray the mixture on the mattress, let it sit for at least an hour, vacuum or scrub the stains and let it dry.

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

How often should you clean the mattress?

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

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

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

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

What are the benefits of vinegar for cleaning?

The guide Cleaning Healthy, Cleaning Green, from the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension, identifies it as a mild acid that can replace some commercial products in specific uses.

Among its main advantages are:

• It helps clean certain surfaces: its acidity can help remove some residues and dirt.
• It can reduce the use of certain commercial products: it may be an alternative for some everyday tasks, as long as the surface material is compatible.
• It is an affordable option: it is usually easy to find and can be used diluted in water for certain household uses.

States set different standards for applying these measures, which can be found on the official website of the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL), whose information was updated in October 2020. However, there are also certain exceptions that protect drivers in specific situations.

Under what law can states take away the driver’s licenses of child support debtors?

This authority is backed by Title 42 of the U.S. Code, Section 666(a)(16), which states:

“Authority to withhold or suspend licenses. Procedures under which the State has (and exercises in appropriate cases) authority to withhold or suspend, or restrict the use of driver’s licenses, professional and occupational licenses, and recreational and sporting licenses of individuals who owe overdue support or who fail, after receiving proper notification, to comply with subpoenas or court orders related to paternity or child support proceedings.”

However, each state sets its own criteria and requirements for applying these measures for failure to meet child support obligations, including debt amounts, delinquency periods and the corresponding procedures.

Suspension or revocation: which one applies in this specific case?

Both measures can apply, depending on each state’s laws. The differences are:

• Suspension: a temporary loss of the right to drive until certain conditions are met.
• Revocation: the license is canceled, so the driver must meet the requirements to get it back or apply for a new one.

For example, in New York and California authorities allow driver’s licenses to be suspended for child support debt, while in Texas, the attorney general or a court can order a revocation or bar the issuance of a new license.

How is the driver notified about the measure?

State authorities must follow the notice procedures set out in their respective laws before applying the penalty.

In general, the driver receives notice informing them of the noncompliance and the steps needed to avoid suspension or revocation. Deadlines vary by state.

What are the exceptions?

According to the NCSL, some states may provide exceptions and alternatives to keep debtors from losing the ability to work and meet their financial obligations.

These may include:

• Restricted or temporary licenses: intended for commuting to work, meeting family responsibilities or attending religious services.
• Payment agreement: some jurisdictions allow people to avoid or lift a suspension through an approved payment plan.
• Administrative or judicial review: this refers to challenging the measure before it takes effect.
• Income-based exceptions: states like California offer protections for drivers whose annual income is no more than 70% of the median income in the county where they live.

What Does the Traffic Sign With a Red Circle and a Horizontal White Stripe in the Middle Mean

The sign is part of the regulatory category, which imposes a prohibition or requirement. According to the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), the sign is square with a white background, but what stands out is a red circle with a horizontal white stripe in the middle, along with the words “DO NOT ENTER.”

Its message is blunt: entry in that direction is prohibited. If a driver sees this sign head-on, it means that if they continue, they would be entering a stretch where vehicles are traveling the opposite way, in other words, coming toward them.

The sign is placed at points where someone could accidentally enter a road going the wrong way. The most common cases are:

• Where a two-way street becomes a one-way street.
• At highway exits, where an exit ramp crosses a street.
• Where a turn lane or channelized roadway meets a two-way street.
• At divided highway crossings that function as two separate intersections.

Why It Is So Important to Obey It

Ignoring this sign means driving the wrong way, head-on into traffic, one of the most dangerous situations in driving because it can lead to high-speed head-on crashes.

That is why the sign is placed right at the entrance: its job is to stop the driver before they enter, not after. Obeying it, stopping and finding the correct entrance helps prevent one of the most serious kinds of crashes.

For those who want to avoid commercial products and are looking for more natural, affordable solutions, simply place baking soda in a container inside the appliance. With this home remedy, recommended by the Food Safety and Inspection Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), you can keep the refrigerator smelling fresh.

What baking soda does inside your fridge

Putting baking soda inside the fridge helps keep the space smelling fresh and eliminate bad odors.

This product can help neutralize some of the compounds responsible for those odors without needing scented air fresheners.

USDA.gov advises against using solvents, abrasives or any cleaner that could leave a “chemical taste” in food or even in ice cubes, the agency says. It also should not be used because it can damage the refrigerator’s interior finish.

How to put baking soda inside your fridge

USDA.gov recommends following this procedure, which does not require mixing the product with other ingredients:

1. Get plain baking soda. You do not need a special preparation or added fragrances.
2. Pour some into a clean, open container. You can also use an open box, as the agency recommends.
3. Place it on a stable shelf. Make sure it does not come into contact with food or spill.
4. Check it regularly. If it gets damp, dirty or loses its ability to control odors, replace it with fresh baking soda.
5. Clean the fridge when needed. Remove spoiled food, wipe up spills and wash the surfaces with soap and water.

“IRS offices are closed on federal holidays”, the agency says on its website.

When will IRS offices reopen

The IRS offices that close for Thanksgiving will resume in-person service on Friday, Nov. 27, 2026. The agency recommends making an appointment before going to a TAC, since some matters require specialized assistance.

The closure of the centers does not mean all services are suspended. The IRS maintains digital resources so taxpayers can handle many tasks without traveling.

What in-person transactions will not be available on Nov. 26

During the closure, there will be no in-person service for matters that require an appointment and direct help from a representative. These include:

• Identity verification: when the IRS requests original documents or an in-person review.
• Resolving special tax cases: such as certain collection disputes, audits or situations involving penalties and liens that require in-person attention.
• Submitting documents at an appointment: when the process requires reviewing paper files with an agent.
• Handling an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN): if the application or renewal requires original documents or in-person assistance.
• Making payments directly at an office: when a specific matter depends on an in-person process available at that center.

Fuente: Shutterstock

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What digital tools will work on Nov. 26

Although the offices are closed, taxpayers can use the IRS digital tools to handle several tasks:

• File a tax return: using the electronic filing options available on IRS.gov.
• Check refund status: through the Refunds tool, without having to go to an office.
• Pay outstanding taxes: using the IRS electronic payment options.
• Review a tax debt: from the online account for individuals, where balances and payment history can be checked.
• Request a payment plan: through the payment plan tool, if you qualify.
• Check tax records: through the transcript service.

In its Aug. 28, 2026, statement, the agency said its online services allow taxpayers to resolve routine tax issues securely.

What is boiling orange peels with cinnamon and cloves good for

The goal of this combination is to naturally freshen indoor spaces and help neutralize odors. As it boils, the steam picks up the aromas from the peel and spices, disperses through different rooms, and helps cover up and mask strong odors, especially in the kitchen and other enclosed spaces. In practice, it works as a natural stovetop air freshener, with a scent associated with fall and the holidays.

The key is the essential oils in each ingredient, which are volatile: Heat releases them and sends them into the steam, which spreads them through the room. Orange peel provides limonene, the compound responsible for its classic citrusy, fresh, and strong scent that helps cover odors. Cinnamon adds its warm, sweet smell, thanks to cinnamaldehyde, its main aromatic compound.

Cloves add that spicy, intense fragrance thanks to eugenol, their main component. The blend of citrus, sweetness, and spice is what creates that enveloping, “warm” aroma that is so distinctive.

Step by step: How to make the mixture at home

The preparation is very simple:

• Fill a pot with water and put it on the stove.
• Add the peels from one or two oranges, washed beforehand, one or two cinnamon sticks, and a few cloves.
• Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat to the minimum so it slowly releases its aroma.
• Let the steam spread through the house, keeping an eye on the pot.

Why it’s recommended

Beyond the result, its appeal is that it is a natural, inexpensive, readily available alternative to commercial air fresheners. It uses ingredients that are usually found in any kitchen, does not leave the air filled with aerosol chemicals, makes use of scraps that would normally be thrown away, like orange peel, and lets you adjust the strength of the scent to taste, depending on how much peel and spice you use. In addition, as it spreads with the steam, the fragrance reaches the entire room, something a spray cannot do.

The incident took place around 3 a.m. on Thursday, October 22, according to reports citing the Colton Police Department. The call alerted officers to suspected theft activity near Mason Street, setting off a response that led to a traffic stop and an arrest.

How a 911 call led police to the stolen Hot Wheels cars

The investigation began when a caller reported that people were stealing cargo from trains near the end of Maple Street. According to CBS News Los Angeles, a resident had seen a man loading several boxes into a black pickup truck near the railroad tracks.

A Colton police officer was positioned near the intersection of South 7th Street and La Cadena Drive. After noticing a black Chevrolet Silverado leaving the area, the officer followed the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop.

Police took the driver into custody. Authorities later recovered 350 boxes of Hot Wheels toy cars, with an estimated total value of $54,000.

The police department did not publicly identify the suspect or release further details about the investigation.

What charges does the suspect face?

The driver was booked into the West Valley Detention Center on suspicion of three offenses: burglary, possession of stolen property and grand theft.

The allegations remain accusations, and the booking does not establish guilt. Authorities have not publicly released the suspect’s name or additional information about the case.

The recovered merchandise represents a significant haul of toy vehicles, but police have not provided a detailed inventory of the models or explained where the stolen shipment was originally headed.

Train cargo thefts remain a concern in Southern California

The Colton case is part of a broader pattern of freight and cargo thefts reported across the Inland Empire, the region east of Los Angeles that includes San Bernardino and Riverside counties.

Freight trains carry large quantities of consumer goods through Southern California, and shipments can become vulnerable when railcars are stopped or left unattended. This is not the first investigation into stolen goods taken from trains in the region.

In this case, the early report gave officers an opportunity to monitor the area and intercept a vehicle allegedly carrying stolen merchandise.

The measure is part of the California Combating Auto Retail Scams (CARS) Act, also known as Senate Bill 766. The law also introduces new requirements for vehicle price disclosures and limits certain fees and add-on products that dealerships can charge consumers.

Who qualifies for California’s 3-day used car return policy?

The new rule applies to qualifying used vehicles purchased or leased from a dealership for $50,000 or less. Buyers can cancel the transaction for any reason within the three-day period, but the vehicle must meet the law’s eligibility requirements.

The protection does not apply to new cars or every type of vehicle purchase. Private sales between individuals are also outside the dealership rules. Buyers should review their sales contract and the cancellation notice provided by the dealer to understand the requirements before attempting to return a vehicle.

What conditions apply to used car returns?

Although the law provides a refund, dealerships may deduct a reasonable restocking fee. Other restrictions can apply, including limits on how much the vehicle has been driven and requirements concerning its condition.

The three-day period is not an unlimited right to return a car at any time. Buyers should check the cancellation terms in their contract and contact the dealership promptly if they decide to cancel the purchase. Keeping the paperwork and any communications with the dealer can also help document the request.

What other protections does the CARS Act provide?

The law requires dealerships to disclose a vehicle’s total price upfront in advertisements and other communications. The goal is to make it easier for consumers to understand the cost before completing a purchase and to reduce unexpected charges.

Dealers also cannot require customers to purchase certain add-on products that were not installed by the manufacturer. They must disclose that these products are optional and cannot charge for add-ons that provide no benefit to the buyer, such as lifetime oil changes for electric vehicles.

The California Business and Consumer Services Agency estimates that the law’s price-transparency requirements and restrictions on unnecessary add-ons will save car buyers $234 million and 8.5 million hours annually. These are projected savings, not payments that consumers will automatically receive.

The company confirmed the rollout, which also covers other cities beyond those six. McDonald’s has not announced a nationwide return.

Guillaume Huin, a senior marketing director at McDonald’s, celebrated the sandwich’s comeback in a post on X. He credited René Arend, a Luxembourgish-American chef, with creating the McRib in 1981.

The McRib is coming back as early as 10/27 in select McDonald's restaurants across the US. The legend says that the McRib first came to life to compensate for... a McNugget shortage issue! Apparently, McNuggets had become so wildly popular that our supply could not keep up with demand. So we needed a new recipe with another protein to give us a bit of time to bring in more McNuggets. The McRib was created IN 1981 by René Arend, a Luxembourgish-American chef who became our very first executive "chef". What was a temporary solve quickly became a cult classic, with fans begging for its return every year. Funny enough, over the years, the McRib has found new meaning online within the crypto community, as some claim Bitcoin tends to perform well after the McRib makes a comeback, particularly in 2017, 2020, 2021. The joke reached its peak in December 2024 when Bitcoin broke $100,000 for the first time in history on the exact same day the McRib returned to menus. Welcome back, Legend!

— Guillaume Huin (@HuinGuillaume) October 22, 2026

The sandwich features a boneless pork patty coated in tangy barbecue sauce and topped with onions and pickles on a toasted roll.

Which McDonald’s customers can get the McRib, and how long will it be back?

Customers can open the McDonald’s app to see whether restaurants near them are serving the McRib. That’s the quickest way to check, since availability depends on location.

McDonald’s hasn’t said when this run will end. Fans who want one may not want to wait, given how quickly the sandwich has left menus in past years.

The timing of this year’s return is earlier than recent runs. Last year, the McRib came back to certain areas in mid-November. In 2024, it returned nationwide in late November.

How often has the McRib disappeared from McDonald’s menus?

The McRib has gone on and off the menu almost since its 1981 debut. McDonald’s stopped offering it as a permanent item in 2012, and it has returned for limited runs since then.

In November 2022, the chain even sent the sandwich on a “farewell tour” at participating restaurants. Its website encouraged fans to eat the McRib as if it were their last, but the sandwich has come back after every so-called goodbye.

Part of its staying power is how divided customers are. Some fans say they order it repeatedly every time it returns. Others online call it unremarkable, comparing it to a sausage patty with barbecue sauce and pickles.

Which other McDonald’s ghost meals have disappeared from the menu?

The McRib isn’t the only McDonald’s item that has vanished, sometimes for good and sometimes only until the next comeback. These are some of the chain’s best-known departures:

• Arch Deluxe: Launched in 1996 as a burger for adults, it paired a quarter-pound patty with bacon on a potato bun. It never caught on and was gone by 2000.
• McSpaghetti: Pasta with marinara and meatballs ran on U.S. menus from 1970 to 1980. It remains popular at McDonald’s in the Philippines.
• Szechuan Sauce: First released in 1998 as a tie-in with Disney’s “Mulan,” it became a cult item after a 2017 “Rick and Morty” reference. It made brief returns in 2017, 2018 and 2022.
• Chicken Selects: These whole-breast chicken strips debuted in 2004, returned as Buttermilk Crispy Tenders in 2017 and were cut in 2020.
• Fish McBites: Bite-size fried fish with tartar sauce lasted only from February to April 2013.
• Big Mac Bacon: The chain added thick-cut applewood smoked bacon to its signature burger in January 2019.
• Spicy Chicken McNuggets: The first new nugget since 1983 launched in September 2020 and came back briefly in 2022.
• Strawberry Shortcake McFlurry: The springtime dessert lasted about a month in 2023.
• All-day breakfast: Introduced in 2015, it ended in March 2020 when McDonald’s trimmed its menu during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The symbol is a supplemental roundabout circulation sign, known in English as a Roundabout Circulation Plaque (R6-5P). Recognizing this sign helps explain how traffic is organized in a roundabout and why it is important to obey yield signs and lane markings.

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) sets guidelines for this type of intersection, where right of way and the direction of travel are essential to road safety.

What does the traffic sign with three black arrows in a circle on a white background mean?

The traffic sign with three black arrows in a circle on a white background indicates the direction of travel within a roundabout. In the U.S., the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) identifies it as the Roundabout Circulation Plaque, with the code R6-5P, and says its purpose is to guide drivers on how they should travel around the central island of the intersection.

According to section 2B.51 of the federal manual, this sign may be placed below a yield sign at roundabout approaches when there is no suitable place to install another sign on the central island.

What should drivers do when they come across this sign in the United States?

As they approach a roundabout, drivers should pay attention to traffic signs, slow down and follow yield instructions when they are present. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) explains that modern roundabouts give priority to vehicles already traveling in the circle, so drivers entering must yield.

Once inside the intersection, drivers must follow the counterclockwise direction indicated by the arrows and obey lane markings and signage.

According to Japanese manufacturer Toyo Tires, these protrusions, technically known as vent spews or vent flash, allow trapped air to escape as the rubber takes its final shape inside the mold.

What tire whiskers mean and how important they are

The tire whiskers are small bits of leftover rubber that form during manufacturing. Although they may look like flaws, they are a normal result of the molding process.

Toyo Tires explained that “tire whiskers are formally known as vent spews (or vent flash)”. It also said they play an important role during production, but have no use once the tire leaves the factory, finished.

To understand where they come from, it helps to know that rubber is placed in a mold that is heated and pressurized. During that stage, the material expands until it takes on the tread pattern and shape of the tire.

The problem is that air bubbles can get trapped between the rubber and the mold. To prevent that, there are small channels that let the air escape. As it does, a tiny amount of rubber passes through those openings and hardens into filaments. That is why the whiskers can also appear in other parts of the tire.

Do tire whiskers mean the tires are new or in good condition?

Not necessarily. Although they are usually more visible on new tires, rubber whiskers do not indicate age, wear, or the safety condition of a tire.

A tire can keep some of these protrusions and still have other problems that are not visible to the naked eye. Likewise, if the whiskers are gone, that does not mean the tire needs to be replaced or is worn out.

What care do tires need

Routine maintenance is what helps extend tire life and reduce driving risks. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), through its TireWise program, recommends paying attention to:

• Check the pressure regularly, preferably when the tires are cold, and follow the vehicle maker’s recommended levels.
• Inspect the tread for excessive or uneven wear.
• Check for damage to the sidewalls and the portion that contacts the road.
• Rotate, balance and align the tires when appropriate, following the manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Check safety notices and recalls to see whether your tires are affected by any issues.

The University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture Cooperative Extension includes this recipe among its homemade cleaning recommendations. Unlike formulas intended for general cleaning, this mixture is specifically designed to polish wooden furniture.

What the olive oil and lemon juice mixture is used for

The recipe combines olive oil, lemon juice and water to help improve the appearance of wooden furniture. The oil provides an oily component that can leave the surface looking shinier, while the lemon juice is part of the homemade formula recommended by the university extension service.

However, the mixture is not suitable for every type of wood or finish. Its results depend on the furniture’s condition and protective coating, so it is important to test it before treating the entire surface.

How to prepare the homemade wood polish

According to the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension, the recipe calls for just three ingredients:

• 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of water

To prepare it, extract the lemon juice and combine it with the olive oil and water. Mix the ingredients thoroughly before applying the solution.

How to apply the mixture to wooden furniture

Once the polish is ready, follow these steps:

1. Test the mixture on a small, inconspicuous area to check how the finish reacts.
2. Apply a thin layer to the wood using a soft cloth.
3. Let the mixture sit for five minutes, as recommended in the recipe.
4. Buff the surface with a clean, soft cloth to improve its shine.

The university extension service recommends preparing the mixture fresh each time rather than storing leftovers for later use.

Precautions before polishing wood

Although these are common household ingredients, lemon juice is acidic and may affect certain finishes. Avoid using the mixture on delicate finishes or specialty surfaces unless the manufacturer confirms it is suitable. Use a small amount and never leave the wood wet.

The project calls for the installation of 89 giant reinforced concrete modules, built on land and sunk into a trench prepared on the seabed. Each standard piece is 217 meters long and weighs about 73,500 tons. When finished, the infrastructure will have four vehicle lanes and two electrified rail tracks.

Construction is continuing, with the elements being installed progressively. According to the Danish state-owned company Femern A/S, by the end of September 2026, four modules had already been placed, totaling nearly 900 meters of tunnel that will cut travel times and create a direct road and rail connection between the two countries, although the opening date still must be confirmed with the updated official schedule.

What the 18-Kilometer Tunnel Linking Denmark and Germany Will Look Like

The Fehmarnbelt tunnel will be a fixed connection under the Baltic Sea between the Danish island of Lolland and the German island of Fehmarn. The project will stretch 18 kilometers and will be part of a transport corridor designed to improve connections between Scandinavia and Central Europe. According to the Danish state-owned company Femern A/S, it will be the world’s longest immersed tunnel.

Unlike tunnels excavated directly into rock, this infrastructure is being built with large prefabricated modules that are placed in a trench on the seabed and joined together. Once completed, it will be able to handle vehicle traffic and electric trains.

The design includes:

• A four-lane highway, two lanes in each direction.
• Two electrified rail tracks for trains.
• Technical facilities and service areas are needed to operate and maintain the tunnel.

According to official project information, the trip through the tunnel will take about 10 minutes by car and 7 minutes by train.

How the Tunnel Under the Baltic Sea Is Being Built With 89 Giant Concrete Modules

The structure will be made up of 89 reinforced concrete modules, built on land and transported by sea to the site where they will be installed. Not all are the same: 79 are standard elements and the other 10 are special pieces that include a lower level to house equipment and technical installations.

The dimensions of the standard modules underscore the scale of the project: each one measures 217 meters long, 42 meters wide and 9 meters high, and weighs 73,500 tons. The special elements are shorter, at about 39 meters long, but they reach 45 meters wide and 13 meters high.

• Onshore fabrication: the modules are produced in a factory specially built in Rødbyhavn, on the Danish island of Lolland.
• Seabed preparation: a trench about 18 kilometers long was dug to receive the tunnel elements.
• Transport and immersion: once ready, the modules are carried by special vessels to the installation site and carefully lowered to the seabed.
• Joining and protection: each element is connected to the section already installed. Then stones and gravel are placed around and over the structure to secure and protect it.

The operation requires extreme precision because of the size and weight of the pieces. The first module was placed in May 2026 and connected to the tunnel portal on the Danish side.

When It Will Be Finished and How Travel by Car and Train Between the Two Countries Will Work

Construction is continuing, with modules being installed progressively. In an update published Sept. 28, 2026, Femern A/S said the fourth element had already been sunk and that the first nearly 900 meters of the tunnel were in place on the bottom of the Baltic Sea.

The same update said module production was still under way at the Rødbyhavn factory and that the next step was to install the first special element, which has a lower level intended for the tunnel’s technical systems.

Once the infrastructure is operational, it will allow travel between Denmark and Germany without relying on the ferry for that route, speeding passenger and freight movement. The opening date still must be confirmed with the updated official schedule.

However, the freeze does not apply to every rental property in New York City. The measure covers rent-stabilized apartments, while tenants in unregulated units remain subject to different rules. Residents should check their apartment’s status to determine whether they qualify for the protection.

Who qualifies for New York City’s rent freeze?

The policy protects tenants in rent-stabilized apartments whose leases begin or renew between October 1, 2026, and September 30, 2027. Under the guidelines adopted by the New York City Rent Guidelines Board, landlords cannot increase rents beyond the standard annual adjustment during this period.

New York City has nearly 1 million rent-stabilized apartments across its five boroughs. However, not all renters are covered by rent stabilization, and eligibility depends on the type of apartment and the applicable lease dates.

Tenants who are unsure whether their apartment qualifies can request their rent history through the New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal (HCR). They can also call 311 and ask for the city’s Tenant Helpline for assistance.

How does the rent freeze work?

The 0% increase applies to eligible one-year and two-year leases during the covered period. Tenants whose leases renew within these dates should review their renewal documents to ensure the applicable rent guidelines are followed.

The freeze limits increases permitted under the Rent Guidelines Board’s annual adjustments, but it does not mean that every housing-related charge is automatically frozen. The policy also does not extend to apartments outside the rent-stabilization system, which are governed by different rules.

Renters who believe their landlord has applied an increase that violates the guidelines can contact the appropriate city or state housing agency to learn about their options.

The unanimous decision from Florida’s Sixth District Court of Appeal upheld a ruling by Lee County Circuit Judge Kyle Cohen. Homeowners Susan Reed and Kent Lonngren had reported storm damage to Citizens, the state-backed insurer, on Oct. 4, 2022.

The ruling also clarifies how property claim appraisals work in Florida, including what a 90-day legal window does and doesn’t guarantee.

Why did the Florida court leave the Hurricane Ian homeowners with the legal bill?

After several rounds of payments, the homeowners gave notice in June 2023 that they planned to sue. Citizens answered by demanding an appraisal. When that stalled over choosing a neutral umpire, the homeowners filed a lawsuit on Sept. 26, 2023.

The court paused the case until the umpire was chosen. The appraisal award went the homeowners’ way, and Citizens paid it within the policy’s 60-day deadline. The homeowners then claimed that payment was a “confession of judgment,” a Florida doctrine that can make insurers pay attorney fees.

Judge Meredith L. Stargel wrote that the doctrine doesn’t apply when the claims process hasn’t broken down and the homeowners didn’t need to sue to get paid. The panel found the lawsuit was a “race to the courthouse” and not what got the claim resolved.

As it stands, the homeowners keep the full appraisal award Citizens already paid, but the insurer owes them nothing more. The appeals court left Cohen’s judgment for Citizens in place, which also rules out interest on the claim for the period before judgment.

The decision isn’t final until the deadline to ask for a rehearing passes.

What should Florida homeowners know if their insurer demands an appraisal?

It’s the second time this month the court has ruled this way. On Oct. 2, it rejected a similar claim from a homeowner who sued a different insurer, Safepoint Insurance Co., while an appraisal was still underway.

The ruling spells out several points that apply when a damage dispute moves to appraisal:

• Appraisal decides the amount. Under the Citizens policy in this case, each side had 20 days to name an appraiser. If the appraisers couldn’t agree on an umpire within 15 days, either side could ask a local judge to pick one. Any two of the three set the final amount.
• The 90-day rule isn’t a deadline for the appraisal. Florida law lets a policyholder sue if the appraisal hasn’t concluded within 90 days after the 10-day notice-of-intent period ends. It doesn’t require the appraisal to be finished by then.
• Suing early may not shift legal costs. If the claims process is working and the insurer pays on time, paying the award doesn’t count as admitting it lost.
• Payment deadlines come from the policy. Citizens’ contract gave it 60 days to pay the award, and meeting that deadline helped its case.

A simple mix with water lets you take advantage of its properties for some everyday tasks, from freshening rooms to making it easier to clean areas with built-up dirt.

Its use is a practical alternative for those looking to cut back on harsher cleaning products.

What is diluted baking soda with water used for around the house?

According to a guide from the Mississippi Department of Health, baking soda can act as a cleaning agent, deodorizer and stain remover. It is also used as a mild abrasive to help remove dirt from certain surfaces.

If it is powdered and sprayed around the house, it can help with stubborn odors. It can also be used in homemade mixtures for certain household maintenance tasks.

How to make baking soda and water to clean the home

One of the simplest mixtures is to dissolve a teaspoon of baking soda in two cups of hot water.

To use it, follow these steps:

1. Dissolve the baking soda: mix it with the water until it is as fully combined as possible.
2. Pour the mixture into a clean spray bottle: make sure the container is in good condition and properly labeled.
3. Apply a small amount: spray it on the chosen surface without soaking it.
4. Wipe with a cloth: remove any dirt and any leftover mixture.
5. Check the result: rinse if needed and make sure no residue remains.

Before applying the mixture to a large area, it is important to test it on a spot that is not easily visible to make sure it does not damage the material.

Why baking soda is recommended for cleaning and removing odors at home

Baking soda is a mildly alkaline chemical compound, a property that allows it to react with some acidic substances found in dirt and responsible for certain bad smells.

When it comes into contact with them, it can help neutralize them and reduce their odor. In addition, its particles have an abrasive texture that helps dislodge residue stuck to certain surfaces without having to scrub as hard.

When mixed with water, the baking soda spreads across the surface and can help clean some washable areas of the home.

However, it does not work the same way against all types of dirt: its ability to remove grease, stains or odors depends on the substance it comes into contact with. That is why it is recommended as a complement to regular cleaning.

Trump made the offer in a post on Truth Social, his social media platform. It came a week before the Nov. 3 midterm elections, when control of the House and Senate is at stake. Republicans hold narrow majorities in both chambers.

The White House has not explained how the reward would be carried out.

Trump has spent years alleging widespread fraud in U.S. elections without backing it up, and he still has not conceded his 2020 loss.

What has to happen to collect Donald Trump’s $1 million voter fraud reward?

In practice, a tip alone isn’t enough to collect. Prosecutors would have to charge the people who committed the fraud and either win the case in court or secure a guilty plea.

The offer is not limited to the upcoming vote. Trump said it applies to fraud in past elections as well as in the 2026 midterms, and his post did not set a deadline.

The post also left several practical questions unanswered:

• Who would pay: The post doesn’t name a funding source, federal or otherwise.
• Where to report: No agency or channel for submitting tips was named.
• Who decides: The post did not say who would determine whether a tipster qualifies.

How does the $1 million voter fraud reward compare with Donald Trump’s other fraud and election moves?

On Oct. 20, Trump appeared in the Oval Office with Vice President JD Vance to launch a separate whistleblower program. It pays tipsters a 1% cut of whatever the government recovers from fraud they expose and prove, and Trump picks who gets paid.

The voter fraud offer works differently. It is a flat $1 million tied to a conviction rather than a share of recovered money.

Trump’s main legislative push on the issue is the SAVE America Act, which he argues would curb voter fraud. It would make people prove U.S. citizenship to register and show identification before voting. The bill cleared the House this year but has repeatedly stalled in the Senate.

The administration has also sought voter registration records from states, citing public trust in the results. Democratic officials, some Republican ones and political analysts call that federal overreach, and some officials are bracing for possible federal involvement in the midterms.

The U.S. Department of Justice filed a criminal information against Comey in federal court in Washington, D.C., on October 5, 2026. The document was unsealed on October 26 at the request of Comey’s lawyers, bringing the allegations into public view.

Prosecutors accuse Comey of transmitting national defense information and conspiring to transmit it to a reporter from The New York Times in October 2016, when he was still leading the FBI.

Comey has denied the allegations. His attorney, Patrick Fitzgerald, said the filing accuses his client of crimes he did not commit and argued that the case is legally improper.

What the new charges against James Comey allege

The case concerns information disclosed in connection with a New York Times article published on October 5, 2016, about Yahoo and U.S. government email surveillance.

According to prosecutors, Comey directed FBI staff to speak with a reporter about the accuracy of an earlier Reuters report concerning whether Yahoo had developed a system to scan incoming emails for information provided by U.S. intelligence officials.

The government alleges that the information subsequently shared with the journalist included classified national defense information that should not have been disclosed.

The two-count filing accuses Comey of unlawfully transmitting that information and conspiring with others to do so. These remain allegations, not findings of guilt.

The disclosure issue had previously been investigated by federal authorities. Comey’s lawyers have argued that earlier investigations ended without criminal charges, making the new effort to prosecute him legally questionable.

Why Comey’s lawyers are challenging the case

One of the central disputes involves the statute of limitations, the legal deadline for bringing criminal charges.

The alleged conduct dates to October 2016. The Justice Department filed the criminal information on October 5, 2026, as the 10-year period was expiring. Prosecutors maintain that filing the document preserves the government’s ability to pursue the case.

Comey’s lawyers dispute that interpretation. They argue that the applicable law required a grand jury indictment within the 10-year period and that the criminal information filed by prosecutors does not satisfy that requirement.

A criminal information is a charging document submitted by prosecutors. Unlike an indictment, it does not result from a grand jury’s vote. The distinction is at the center of the defense’s effort to have the latest case dismissed.

The Justice Department has defended the procedure, describing the use of a criminal information to pause the statute of limitations as a recognized practice in federal court. The department has declined to comment further on the ongoing investigation.

The other criminal cases involving the former FBI director

The latest case follows two previous criminal proceedings involving Comey since Trump returned to the White House in 2025.

The first case accused Comey of making false statements to Congress about media leaks. A federal judge dismissed it after determining that the prosecutor who brought the charges had been unlawfully appointed.

A separate case remains pending and involves allegations that Comey threatened Trump through an Instagram post featuring seashells arranged to display the numbers “86 47.” Comey has sought to have that case dismissed as well.

The new allegations concern a different matter: the alleged disclosure of national defense information in 2016.

What Trump and Comey have said

Trump and Comey have had a strained relationship since the president fired him as FBI director in May 2017, while the FBI was investigating possible links between Russia and Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign.

Asked about the latest case on October 26, Trump called Comey a “dirty cop” but also said he did not know much about the matter.

Comey responded in a video statement posted on Instagram, saying the government was pursuing him again and reaffirming his innocence. He described the latest action as an abuse of the Justice Department and said he continued to believe in an independent federal judiciary.

The White House announced the initiative on September 10, 2026, saying the payments would return excess fees collected to operate the federal health insurance marketplace. Payments began going out at the end of September, but not all Obamacare enrollees qualify.

Who qualifies for the $500 Obamacare refund?

The payments target people who enrolled in 2026 health insurance coverage through HealthCare.gov and did not receive premium tax credits to reduce their monthly premiums. These consumers generally paid the full cost of their coverage.

Eligible individuals must have been enrolled in an eligible plan in one of the 30 participating states. The payment is set at $500 per person, rather than being calculated according to each enrollee’s insurance costs.

Which states are included in the refund program?

The initiative covers Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

However, living in one of these states does not automatically guarantee a payment. People who received premium tax credits for their 2026 coverage are excluded from this initiative.

Why is the government sending $500 Obamacare refunds?

The Trump administration says the payments will return excess user fees collected to fund HealthCare.gov. These fees are charged to insurers offering plans through the federal marketplace and are generally reflected in consumers’ premiums.

However, the nonpartisan health policy organization KFF questioned whether the payments correspond to the fees each recipient actually paid and noted that the legal basis for distributing the funds directly to selected consumers remains unclear. The $500 payment may also cover only part of the higher insurance costs some unsubsidized enrollees faced in 2026.

The initiative is separate from the federal Premium Tax Credit, which helps eligible individuals and families reduce their Marketplace premiums. People who do not qualify for this payment may still be eligible for other financial assistance depending on their household income and circumstances.

For the 2026 tax year, the IRS’s draft instructions set the maximum ACTC at $1,700 per qualifying child, while the maximum Child Tax Credit is $2,200 per qualifying child. The tax year covers income earned during 2026, with most returns filed in 2027.

The actual refund depends on the taxpayer’s income, tax liability, number of qualifying children and eligibility under federal tax rules. Claiming the credit does not mean the IRS has already approved a refund.

Who qualifies for the Additional Child Tax Credit in 2027?

The ACTC may help families who qualify for the Child Tax Credit but cannot use the full amount of that credit to reduce their federal income tax. The refundable portion may allow eligible taxpayers to receive money even when their tax liability is limited.

According to the IRS, a qualifying child must meet these requirements:

• Age: The child must be under 17 at the end of 2026.
• Relationship: The child must meet the IRS relationship criteria, such as being the taxpayer’s son, daughter, stepchild, eligible foster child, sibling or a qualifying descendant of one of these relatives.
• Dependent status: The taxpayer must be eligible to claim the child as a dependent on their federal return.
• Residency and other tests: The child must meet the applicable residency and qualifying-child rules.
• Social Security number: The child must have a valid Social Security number for employment in the United States, issued before the return’s due date, including extensions when applicable.

The taxpayer must also meet the applicable identification and filing requirements. For married couples filing jointly, at least one spouse must generally have a valid Social Security number. The other spouse may use a Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), subject to the IRS rules and deadlines.

How much can families receive from the IRS in 2027?

For the 2026 tax year, the IRS’s draft instructions establish these maximum amounts:

The ACTC amount is calculated under specific rules. Under the standard formula in the draft instructions, the refundable amount is generally based on 15% of earned income above $2,500, subject to the maximum per qualifying child and other applicable provisions.

As a result, not every family will receive $1,700. The amount may be lower depending on earned income and the taxpayer’s circumstances. The IRS determines the final credit when it processes the return.

The ACTC is not an automatic payment or a separate stimulus check. Taxpayers must claim the applicable credit on their federal tax return and provide the required information.

What income limits apply to the Child Tax Credit?

The IRS’s draft Schedule 8812 instructions for 2026 state that the Child Tax Credit and related credit amounts may be reduced when modified adjusted gross income exceeds $400,000 for married couples filing jointly or $200,000 for other filing statuses.

The refundable ACTC calculation also depends on earned income and the number of qualifying children. Taxpayers should review the final IRS instructions for the 2026 tax year before filing, since draft forms and instructions may be updated.

Families should verify the child’s eligibility, the required Social Security numbers and the information included on their tax return. Errors or missing information may delay processing or affect the amount of the credit.

When will the IRS issue ACTC refunds in 2027?

The IRS cannot issue refunds before mid-February 2027 for tax returns that properly claim the Additional Child Tax Credit. This restriction applies to the entire refund, not just the portion attributable to the ACTC.

The exact date a taxpayer receives the money depends on when the IRS receives and processes the return, whether the agency needs additional information and the payment method selected.

Taxpayers can monitor their refund through the IRS’s official Where’s My Refund? tool. A credit claim alone does not confirm that a refund has been approved or establish a specific deposit date.

Because the 2026 Schedule 8812 instructions are currently published as a draft, taxpayers should consult the final version when it becomes available before making filing decisions.

Antonoff, who fronts the band Bleachers and is Jewish, made the comments in an interview with The Guardian published Sunday. He said the backlash against Macklemore had only made him more determined to keep using the phrase, which he sees as a humanitarian message.

The remarks pull the dispute closer to pop’s biggest star. Swift has worked with Antonoff for more than a decade and called him one of her best friends in April. She has not publicly talked about his comments.

What did Jack Antonoff say about ‘Free Palestine’ and Ed Sheeran?

Antonoff said Sheeran “missed a massive, beautiful opportunity.” In his view, Sheeran should have canceled his remaining shows and played for free outside each stadium, instead of letting a billionaire decide the outcome.

He said he wouldn’t accept those terms himself: “Don’t book me. I’ll play for free outside.” Antonoff said he has been harassed online for using the phrase, and he argued that wealthy interests too often decide what artists can say.

Why was Macklemore removed from Ed Sheeran’s US tour over saying ‘Free Palestine’?

Macklemore opened two shows for Sheeran at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey in early September. He said “Free Palestine” from the stage and performed “Hind’s Hall,” a song tied to pro-Palestinian protests.

The Israeli-American Council urged Sheeran to drop him. Robert Kraft, whose Kraft Group owns Gillette Stadium, cited concerns about antisemitism. Macklemore was cut from the remaining U.S. dates on Sept. 14, and Sheeran said the promoter, Messina Touring Group, made that call.

At a Sept. 19 concert in Philadelphia, Sheeran admitted mistakes in how he handled the fallout. He condemned the Hamas-led Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel and called the situation in Gaza unjustifiable and disproportionate.

Macklemore opened his own Free Palestine tour Monday in Dublin, with proceeds going to groups that support Palestinians. Jewish and pro-Israel groups have accused him of antisemitic rhetoric. He says his criticism targets the Israeli government, not Jewish people.

How close are Jack Antonoff and Taylor Swift?

Swift and Antonoff met in 2012 and first worked together in 2013. He has since worked on “1989,” “Reputation,” “Lover,” “Folklore,” “Midnights” and “The Tortured Poets Department,” along with her re-recorded albums.

His absence from “The Life of a Showgirl,” released in October 2025, fueled rumors of a falling-out. Swift addressed them in April in an interview with The New York Times Magazine, calling Antonoff a collaborator and one of her best friends.

What has Taylor Swift said about politics, and what hasn’t she?

Swift avoided politics for most of her early career and later said she regretted staying quiet. Since 2018, she has weighed in mostly on U.S. elections and civil rights:

• October 2018: She endorsed Democrats in Tennessee, including Phil Bredesen for Senate, and criticized Republican Marsha Blackburn, who won the race.
• June 2019: She urged then-Sen. Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn., to back the Equality Act, a proposed LGBTQ anti-discrimination law. She also criticized then-President Donald Trump’s opposition to it.
• October 2020: She made her first presidential endorsement, backing Joe Biden and Kamala Harris.
• June 2022: She said she was terrified after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade.
• September 2024: She endorsed Harris and Tim Walz after Trump shared AI-generated images that falsely showed her support.

In August, Trump’s campaign and the White House used her songs in social media videos. The audio was later removed, and Swift did not comment.

Swift has not publicly addressed the war in Gaza or the Macklemore controversy. It wouldn’t be the first time her silence drew attention: she has faced questions repeatedly over the years about when she chooses to take a public stand.

Lemon, on the other hand, has a high citric acid content and a low pH. It is especially useful for dissolving certain stains and dirt buildup. When combined with hydrogen peroxide, both ingredients can help produce whitening and deodorizing effects.

Why does spraying hydrogen peroxide with lemon work to whiten surfaces?

Hydrogen peroxide breaks down the compounds that cause stains and lightens materials because of its oxidizing properties, while lemon helps remove limescale, mineral deposits, and certain types of dirt thanks to its citric acid content.

This mixture is especially recommended for removing stains and treating mold.

The website of Whistle Clean Australia, a commercial cleaning company, says both ingredients have useful cleaning and whitening properties.

How do you prepare the mix that whitens surfaces?

The company warns that this mixture should be prepared for immediate use.

For direct, simple cleaning, it is recommended to use low-concentration 3% peroxide, which can be found at pharmacies and supermarkets.

The mixture is made by diluting one part hydrogen peroxide in two parts water and adding one part lemon juice, always measuring the amounts you plan to use. Then, as a final step, spray the areas to be whitened. If you wish, you can wipe with a cloth to remove any excess liquid.

This combination is recommended with caution and should not be stored, since it can become unstable over time and produce peracetic acid, which is much more corrosive than either ingredient on its own.

Where can it be used, and when is it not recommended?

This mixture can be used on the following surfaces, as long as they are compatible with its ingredients:

• Tiles and grout.
• Glass and mirrors.
• Sinks and bathroom surfaces.
• Nonporous kitchen surfaces.
• White fabrics, after checking that they are compatible with the material.

By contrast, its use is not recommended on marble, limestone, and other natural stones sensitive to acids, as well as on unfinished wood, leather, suede, and certain metal surfaces.

It is also recommended to avoid applying it to colored fabrics because of the risk of discoloration.

What is the probate process?

Probate is the court-supervised process to settle the estate of a deceased person. In essence, it serves several functions at once: it validates the will (if there is one), gives legal authority to the person who will be in charge of managing the assets, protects creditors and heirs, and makes sure that debts and taxes are paid before distributing what remains.

It applies whether there is a will or not. If there is a valid will, the court appoints the executor named in it as the responsible party. If there is no will, the court appoints an administrator, and the assets are distributed according to the state’s inheritance laws. It is worth remembering that inheritance rules vary from state to state.

Step by step: how the assets are divided

The process follows, broadly speaking, this sequence:

• Filing with the court: the original will is filed (if there is one) along with a petition with the appropriate court, usually the one in the county where the person lived.
• Hearing and appointment: the court validates the will and formally appoints the executor or administrator, who receives legal authority to act (the so-called “letters testamentary”).
• Notice to creditors and heirs: known creditors are notified and, in most states, a notice is also published for unknown creditors.
• Inventory and appraisal: the responsible party locates and values all assets subject to probate and files an inventory with the court.
• Payment of debts, taxes, and expenses: valid debts are paid, final tax returns are filed, and any applicable taxes are settled. This is usually the longest stage.
• Distribution of assets: what remains is divided among the heirs, according to the will or state law.
• Closing the probate: the responsible party files a final accounting and, once approved by the court, the probate is closed.

How long can it take

Duration is one of the big questions, and the answer depends on the complexity of the case. As a general reference:

• Simple cases: with a clear will and few assets, they can be resolved in just 3 to 6 months.
• Standard cases: the process usually takes between 6 and 12 months, depending on the state.
• Complex cases: they can extend one year or more.

What Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is and who receives it

SSI is a federal program that provides monthly payments to people with limited income and resources to help cover basic needs such as food, clothing and housing. It is administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA), but it differs fundamentally from retirement benefits: it is not funded through Social Security payroll contributions, but through general Treasury funds, and it does not depend on having worked or on how much was contributed over a person’s working life.

To qualify, you must meet both the financial requirement -- low income and resources below certain limits -- and belong to one of these groups: people age 65 or older, blind people or people with a disability (including children with disabilities). In all, the 2027 adjustment affects about 7.3 million people who receive this benefit.

The 2027 Supplemental Security Income increase (COLA)

SSI increases 3.6% in 2027, the same cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) that applies to all Social Security benefits. With that increase, the maximum federal payment is as follows:

• For a single person (individual): rises to $1,029 a month, up from $994 in 2026 (about $35 more).
• For a couple (both beneficiaries): rises to $1,544 a month, up from $1,491 in 2026 (about $53 more).

Those amounts are the federal maximums. What each person receives may be lower, because SSI is reduced based on any other income the beneficiary has; in addition, some states add their own supplement on top of the federal amount.

When the increase starts showing up

While retirees and other Social Security beneficiaries will not see the increase until January 2027 payments, people who receive SSI will see it earlier: the first adjusted payment comes on December 31, 2026.

The reason is the payment schedule. SSI is generally paid on the first day of each month. But when that day falls on a weekend or holiday, the payment is issued on the previous business day. Because Jan. 1, 2027, is a holiday (New Year’s Day), the January payment, with the increase included, will be paid on the last business day in December, that is, the 31st.

More than 150 years later, an archaeological investigation brought new clues to the mystery. Radiocarbon dating determined that the skeleton found inside the sarcophagus belonged to a man who lived between the years 987 and 1052, several centuries after the stone coffin was made.

The study suggests that the remains could belong to one of two ancient religious leaders of the monastery: Ælfwig or Wulfnoth. Although the researchers consider one of them the most likely candidate, the man’s identity has still not been confirmed.

What did archaeologists find in the tomb discovered in 1869?

In 1869, archaeologists excavated a limestone sarcophagus on the grounds of Westminster Abbey. The tomb bore an inscription dedicated to Valerius Amandinus, a wealthy man who lived in Roman Britain between the 3rd and 4th centuries. However, the lid featured a large Latin cross carved several centuries later, during the Anglo-Saxon period, a difference that raised questions about who had been buried there.

According to the abbey’s official statement, dated October 21, 2026, the medieval cross indicated that the Roman sarcophagus had been reused for a later burial. For that reason, the name engraved in the stone did not necessarily correspond to the person whose remains were inside. For decades, the identity of the deceased remained a mystery.

What did the skeleton found inside the Roman sarcophagus reveal?

Analysis of the remains made it possible to establish that the man died many centuries after the construction of the sarcophagus. According to Westminster Abbey, bone specialist James Young Langthorne estimated that he was between 35 and 49 years old and about 1.75 meters tall. In this regard, a bone sample was sent to the Scottish Universities Environmental Research Centre for radiocarbon dating.

The results placed the remains between the years 987 and 1052 AD, confirming that the sarcophagus had been reused during the late Anglo-Saxon period. The evidence thus supported the hypothesis that the tomb had been adapted for a medieval burial, although dating alone did not make it possible to determine the deceased man’s name.

Who are the two ancient religious leaders who could be buried there?

The abbey’s consulting archaeologist, Warwick Rodwell, identified two possible candidates: Ælfwig and Wulfnoth, former superiors of Westminster’s Benedictine monastery. Ælfwig held the post of abbot between 993 and around 1020, while Wulfnoth was his successor and remained in the position until 1049. The dates of their lives are consistent with the period to which the skeleton belongs.

Rodwell considers Ælfwig the most likely candidate because he was already a Westminster monk before becoming abbot. However, the researcher does not rule out Wulfnoth and acknowledges that both could fit the available evidence. The burial in an elaborate stone sarcophagus and the cross carved into the lid support the hypothesis that the deceased was a high-ranking religious figure, but they do not amount to a definitive identification.

The remains, therefore, could belong to one of the two clerics, although the mystery is not completely solved. Currently, the sarcophagus is on display in the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries inside Westminster Abbey, where visitors can see the tomb that gave rise to this investigation.

According to the New Zealand Ministry of Defence, the acquisition includes weapons and associated equipment, with a capital investment of 1,648 million New Zealand dollars. The first deliveries are expected in 2030.

When will the five U.S. military helicopters arrive in New Zealand?

According to the official announcement, the first MH-60R Seahawk will begin arriving in 2030, as part of the process of renewing the maritime helicopter fleet of the New Zealand Armed Forces.

The new aircraft will replace the current SH-2G(I) Seasprite helicopters, used to carry out operations from military ships and take part in various maritime missions.

The addition of the Seahawk aims to improve New Zealand’s response capability in defense, surveillance, and assistance at sea.

What features do the MH-60R Seahawk military helicopters have?

The MH-60R Seahawk are military helicopters designed to operate from warships and carry out various missions over the sea.

Among their main capabilities are:

• Detection and tracking of submarines, through specialized surveillance systems.
• Operations against maritime threats, thanks to their military equipment and ability to carry weapons.
• Surveillance and reconnaissance, to identify vessels and monitor maritime areas.
• Search and rescue, in support of emergency operations at sea.

These features will make it possible to expand the functions currently performed by the maritime helicopters of the Armed Forces in New Zealand.

How much will New Zealand invest in the new military helicopters?

The Government announced a capital investment of 1,648 million New Zealand dollars to acquire the five MH-60R Seahawk helicopters, along with the weapons and equipment needed for their use.

With this addition, New Zealand aims to have aircraft capable of carrying out both defense missions and surveillance and rescue tasks, with the first deliveries scheduled for 2030.

To address this problem, the specialty site Sleep Foundation recommends a homemade method that uses distilled white vinegar, laundry detergent and baking soda in its steps.

It is important to note that cleaning should be done as soon as possible after the incident occurs.

Vinegar, detergent and baking soda: how to use them to remove urine stains

The advice for dealing with this type of stain is to remove the bedding as soon as possible, including any pads or blankets that may have been affected, and wash them using 450 g of baking soda and one cup of distilled white vinegar.

As the next step, it is recommended to make a homemade cleaner by combining equal parts water and distilled white vinegar in a spray bottle, then adding 1 to 2 tablespoons of laundry detergent.

The water dilutes the ingredients, while the acid in the vinegar helps neutralize compounds and remove residue, and the laundry detergent helps lift dirt thanks to its surfactants.

This mixture should be sprayed over all affected parts of the mattress and left to sit for about 15 minutes so the stain can break down. Then it should be dried with clean towels or paper towels.

The final tip is to spread a thick layer of baking soda over the entire mattress, which will help absorb moisture and eliminate odors. The remainder should be vacuumed up.

How to prevent new stains on the mattress

To prevent future stains and care for the mattress, the following habits were also recommended:

• Limit liquids before bed
• Take children to the bathroom before bedtime and even wake them during the night if necessary so they can go again
• Walk pets regularly
• Invest in a mattress cover or protector that acts as a barrier against any incident.

The update will change the amounts beneficiaries receive starting in 2027. However, the extra money will not be the same for everyone since the amount will depend on the benefit each person receives and on any deductions that may apply to their monthly payment.

The date on which the adjustment will be reflected will also depend on the type of benefit and the Social Security Administration (SSA) payment schedule. While some SSI beneficiaries will receive the payment corresponding to January before the end of December 2026, retirees will be paid the new amount according to the scheduled dates for January 2027.

How much will the Social Security COLA increase be in 2027?

The United States Social Security Administration (SSA) confirmed a 3.6% increase in benefits for 2027, corresponding to the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). The increase will apply to those who receive retirement benefits, survivors benefits and disability benefits, as well as beneficiaries of the Supplemental Security Income program.

The adjustment is calculated based on the variation in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W). According to the SSA, about 72 million Social Security beneficiaries will receive the increase starting in January 2027, while adjusted SSI payments will begin to be deposited on December 31, 2026.

How much extra money will retirees receive with the COLA increase?

The average monthly benefit for retired workers will increase from $2,095 to $2,170, which represents an additional $75 per month, a figure that corresponds to an official SSA estimate for January 2027. It should be noted that the individual increase will depend on the benefit each person receives.

When will the first Social Security payment with the 2027 increase be deposited?

Social Security beneficiaries will begin receiving their adjusted payments in January 2027 in their accounts, according to the schedule that applies to them. In this regard, for retirees who began receiving payments after April 1997, the first January payment date will be the 13th for those born between the 1st and the 10th. Those born between the 11th and the 20th will be paid on January 20, and those born between the 21st and the 31st will receive the payment on the 27th of that month.

By contrast, SSI beneficiaries will receive the payment corresponding to January on December 31, 2026, because the first day of the year is a federal holiday. In addition, people who receive both Social Security and SSI will also need to receive their Social Security payment that day.

The requirement can also apply to car dealers, jewelry stores, contractors, lawyers, real estate agents, and businesses that receive large payments for their services. The goal is to record certain transactions and help detect possible illegal activity.

Who must file IRS Form 8300?

The obligation is not limited to large companies. According to the IRS, individuals and entities that receive more than $10,000 in cash while conducting a business activity must file the form, as long as the transaction meets the established criteria.

“Each person engaged in a trade or business who, in the course of that trade or business, receives more than $10,000 in cash in a transaction, or in two or more related transactions, must file Form 8300”, the federal agency explains.

That means the requirement can also apply when a customer splits a payment into several installments. Transactions made between one payer and the same recipient within a 24-hour period are considered related. They can also be considered related over a longer period when there is knowledge or reason to believe they are part of the same series of transactions.

The form also covers certain transactions involving monetary instruments, such as cashier’s checks and money orders.

What is the deadline to file Form 8300?

Businesses must file Form 8300 within 15 days of the date they receive the cash payment that exceeds the established threshold.

If the amount is accumulated through several related payments, the clock starts when the total is received that pushes the amount above $10,000. If the deadline falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or federal holiday, the IRS says the form must be filed on the next business day.

Electronic filing is done through the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network’s (FinCEN) BSA E-Filing system. Since Jan. 1, 2024, certain businesses have been required to use this method if they are also required to file other information returns electronically and meet the applicable threshold.

Some businesses are not required to file electronically and may file on paper, according to the current instructions.

How to avoid fines

To reduce the risk of penalties, business owners should:

• Keep records of cash payments: track individual and related transactions to determine when the $10,000 limit is exceeded.
• File the form on time: verify the date the money was received and meet the IRS deadline.
• Fill in the information correctly: provide the required information about the payer, the transaction, and the business, including the tax identification number when applicable.
• Keep a copy: retain each Form 8300 for five years from the date it is filed.
• Notify the customer when required: provide the required information to each person named on the form no later than Jan. 31 of the year after the transaction.

The IRS warns that fines may apply when a correct and complete form is not filed on time and there is no reasonable cause for the failure. They can also apply when incorrect information is provided.

In cases of intentional or deliberate noncompliance, the consequences can be more serious and include significant financial penalties and possible criminal prosecution.

The change follows the agency’s standard payment calendar. Since November 1 falls on a Sunday, the payment will be issued on the preceding business day. The adjustment does not represent an additional benefit or a bonus; it is the regular monthly SSI payment arriving early.

Who qualifies for the early November SSI payment?

The advance payment is intended for people who qualify for SSI, a federal program designed to provide financial assistance to people with limited income and resources.

According to the SSA, eligible recipients generally include:

• Adults aged 65 or older who meet the program’s financial requirements.
• People with disabilities who meet the SSA’s eligibility criteria and have limited income and resources.
• People who are blind and meet the program’s financial and other eligibility requirements.
• Children with qualifying disabilities whose households meet the applicable income and resource rules.

The SSI program is separate from regular Social Security retirement and disability benefits, although some people qualify for both programs.

Recipients who already receive SSI do not need to submit a new application or request the early deposit. Their November payment follows the adjusted calendar automatically.

How much will beneficiaries receive in November?

The maximum federal SSI payment for 2026 is $994 per month for an eligible individual. For an eligible couple, the maximum is $1,491 per month.

However, these figures are payment limits, not guaranteed amounts. The actual benefit may be lower depending on the recipient’s countable income, living arrangements and other circumstances.

For example, the SSA states that an individual or child living in another person’s household may receive a reduced federal payment of $662.67 under the applicable 2026 guidelines. State supplements may also affect the total amount a recipient receives.

The program’s income and resource limits also determine eligibility. In general, the resource limit is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple, although the SSA excludes certain assets when calculating resources.

When will the November payment arrive?

The official SSA payment schedule establishes the following key dates for this week:

• Wednesday, October 28: Regular Social Security retirement, survivor and disability benefits for beneficiaries born between the 21st and 31st of a month, provided they fall under the standard Wednesday payment schedule.
• Friday, October 30: The November SSI payment for eligible recipients.

The SSI payment is normally scheduled for the first day of each month. When that date falls on a weekend or federal holiday, the SSA generally issues the payment on the preceding business day.

Beneficiaries should remember that receiving the November SSI payment in October does not mean they will receive two SSI payments in November. The October 30 deposit covers the November benefit, and the next regularly scheduled SSI payment will be for December.

Before spreading used coffee directly on the soil, it is worth knowing what effects it may have and the best way to add it. Recommendations from universities specializing in gardening say the grounds can be used as an ingredient in compost, but warn that applying them in large amounts and without treatment can harm some plants.

To care for a lemon tree, it is important to know how to reuse this waste without affecting the soil or roots, and what mistakes to avoid.

What putting coffee grounds in the soil around a lemon tree does

Coffee grounds can be used in the garden because coffee leftovers contain nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and some micronutrients that can be added to the soil, according to the University of Connecticut.

One of the most recommended uses is to add them to compost, along with other organic waste. During decomposition, these materials turn into compost, which can help improve soil structure and provide nutrients gradually.

Oregon State University notes that coffee grounds can be a useful resource for the garden if used in moderation and if the lemon tree’s basic needs for watering, drainage and nutrition are met.

How to use coffee grounds to care for a lemon tree

To make use of coffee grounds, one of the most prudent uses is to add them to a compost pile. In this sense, South Dakota State University recommends mixing the grounds with other organic materials and letting them break down for several months before using them in the garden.

The process can be followed in these steps:

• Save the used grounds: let them cool after brewing the coffee and set them aside for composting.
• Mix them with other organic waste: combine them with dry leaves and plant scraps to balance the materials in the pile.
• Let them decompose: keep the compost moist, aerate it periodically and wait until the material is fully mature before applying it.
• Work the compost into the soil: spread a moderate amount over the soil around the lemon tree, without piling it up against the trunk.

However, the official meteorological winter does not begin until December 1, 2026. The astronomical winter season starts later, on December 21, just a few days before Christmas.

Winter may be arriving earlier in the United States

The United States is facing changing weather conditions as colder air moves into parts of the West. The National Weather Service and AccuWeather have identified areas where early-season snow could affect higher elevations, while other locations may experience rain instead.

A new report from AccuWeather senior meteorologist Chad Merrill, provided exclusively to Men’s Journal, points to snowfall in the northern Cascades, Sierra Nevada, and Rocky Mountains. The forecast covers the week of October 26 through October 31, meaning some mountain communities could experience wintry conditions before Halloween.

Parts of the northern Cascades, Sierra Nevada, and Rocky Mountains could see snow as colder conditions reach higher elevations across the West. However, snowfall is expected to remain concentrated in mountain areas rather than spread evenly across all 11 states, with conditions varying between high peaks and lower-lying communities.

The NWS’s latest forecast also points to mountain snow across the Northwest through midweek. Snow levels in the Washington Cascades are expected to drop to around 3,000 feet on Wednesday, increasing the possibility of snowfall at lower elevations than earlier in the week.

The 11 US states that could receive snow this week

According to AccuWeather’s outlook shared with Men’s Journal, the 11 states that could see snowfall are:

• Washington.
• Oregon.
• California.
• Nevada.
• Idaho.
• Montana.
• Wyoming.
• Utah.
• Colorado.
• Arizona.
• New Mexico.

These states cover a broad area of the western United States, where mountain elevation will play a major role in determining where snow develops. The forecast does not mean that every community in these states will experience snowfall, as lower-lying areas may see different weather conditions.

As October draws to a close, the outlook points to a limited round of early-season snow across parts of the West. Residents and travelers should check local forecasts before heading into mountain areas, where conditions can change considerably with elevation.

According to Arm & Hammer, adding baking soda with detergent helps strengthen its cleaning power during the wash. The brand says the ingredient can be especially useful for items that hold odors, such as athletic wear or work clothes.

What is baking soda used for in the washing machine?

Baking soda can be used as a supplement to regular detergent. One of its main benefits is that it helps neutralize odors by balancing pH levels during the wash.

The company also says this ingredient helps soften water, which can improve the effectiveness of cleaning products.

That can make it useful for washing clothes that hold sweat odors or need to regain freshness after several wears.

However, baking soda does not replace detergent; it is added as a supplement during the wash cycle.

How much baking soda should you put in the washing machine?

Arm & Hammer recommends using half a cup of baking soda during the wash and, for extra freshness, adding another half cup during the rinse cycle.

The brand recommends the following steps:

1. Put the clothes in the washing machine.
2. Add half a cup of baking soda.
3. Add your regular detergent.
4. Start the wash cycle.
5. Add another half cup of baking soda during the rinse cycle.

The recommendation calls for using baking soda with detergent, without replacing your usual laundry products.

What kind of clothes can benefit from baking soda?

This method can be useful for clothes that tend to pick up odors after everyday use, especially athletic wear, work clothes and items exposed to sweat.

The goal is to complement cleaning and help clothes retain a fresh feel after washing.

Before using it, it is a good idea to check garment care labels and the washing machine manufacturer’s instructions, especially when it comes to delicate fabrics or machines with specific requirements.

Why CMS, Social Security, and federal agencies close on November 26

The closure coincides with Thanksgiving Day, one of the main celebrations on the U.S. calendar that is generally observed on the fourth Thursday of November. This year, the date falls on Thursday the 26th and is part of the federal holiday calendar.

Usa.gov notes that it is a “legal holiday” on which “government offices, banks and some private-sector businesses are closed”.

The day affects in-person appointments at agencies such as CMS, SSA, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), among others. It should be noted that the closure does not mean all digital services are suspended. Website availability depends on each agency.

What day do federal agencies reopen

Friday, November 27 is generally not a federal holiday, so offices are expected to resume their regular hours that day. Although each agency may set specific service conditions.

What does Thanksgiving Day celebrate?

Thursday, November 26, marks Thanksgiving Day, a date dedicated to expressing gratitude and gathering with family and friends to share a traditional meal. It also marks the start of the holiday season, which ends on New Year’s Day.

The tradition dates back to 1621, when English settlers and Native Americans shared a celebration for the harvest. Today, millions of people gather to eat traditional dishes, while the following day, Black Friday shopping takes place.

The Halloween celebration, next Saturday, October 31, could be affected by heavy rains, storms, and possible flooding in different regions of the United States. Weather conditions could complicate the outdoor activities planned for that day.

According to the forecast published by AccuWeather, the main complications would be concentrated in the Great Plains, especially in parts of Texas, where the arrival of moisture from the Gulf and tropical regions is expected.

Halloween 2026: Which areas are at risk of heavy rains and storms

AccuWeather warns that, from Thursday through Halloween, precipitation could accumulate enough to cause flash flooding in some towns.

Among the areas with the greatest complications are:

• Southern Texas: heavy rains are expected that could affect outdoor activities.
• West and central Kansas: precipitation could complicate festivities, especially on Friday the 30th.
• Southern Louisiana: some communities could experience thunderstorms accompanied by heavy rains.

The forecast also mentions cities such as San Antonio, Houston, and New Orleans, where storms could accompany the precipitation.

Although the most adverse conditions are expected in these regions, AccuWeather anticipates scattered rain in other parts of the country.

Where else could it rain during Halloween?

In addition to the areas with the highest risk of precipitation, the weather report forecasts isolated rain between Friday the 30th and Saturday, October 31, in the Rocky Mountains, the Florida peninsula, and coastal areas of the Northwest.

In California, some precipitation could reach the southern part of the state during Halloween, including the cities of Los Angeles and San Diego.

On the other hand, in Hawaii, heavy rains and possible flash flooding are expected in the days leading up to it, associated with Tropical Storm Olana. However, conditions could improve by the weekend.

Which areas will have better conditions to celebrate Halloween?

Not the whole country will have an unfavorable outlook. According to AccuWeather, the best conditions for outdoor activities are expected from northern Florida to New England and the Great Lakes region.

In these areas, temperatures could be several degrees above the usual values for this time of year.

Meanwhile, Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, and parts of eastern Washington and Oregon will have colder conditions. There, wind chill temperatures could range between 30 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit, equivalent to approximately -1 to 9 degrees Celsius.

In this way, those planning to take part in the Halloween festivities should pay attention to the weather conditions in their area, since the forecast includes everything from heavy rain to low temperatures, depending on the region.

Also known as the “devil’s ivy,” this plant has been sold for more than 100 years and stands out for the few problems it can cause its caretakers, according to Penn State University.

In that sense, knowing the light, temperature, and watering conditions it needs is key to promoting its healthy growth.

How to care for pothos so it grows quickly indoors: this is what the experts say

The institution explains that the plant should be placed in an area where it receives moderate to strong light. However, direct sun should be avoided at all costs because it will cause the leaves to turn yellow.

Since it will tend to grow toward the sun, another recommendation is to rotate the plant weekly so that its foliage is distributed evenly and the plant does not remain leaning in a single direction.

In addition, it is advisable to keep it at temperatures between 15.6 C and 26.7 C. “Under these conditions, it is a vigorous and fast-growing plant,” it states.

As for watering, the general instruction is to pay attention to the plant’s own conditions and water only when the soil is dry.

Root rot, when it is given too much water, is one of the main -and few- problems that pothos has, so it is emphasized that it is preferable to keep it dry rather than overly damp, a characteristic that makes it ideal for those who love plants but cannot dedicate much time in their day to caring for them.

Other key considerations for those who have a pothos

On a yearly basis, it is advisable in spring to plant the pothos in a container larger than the one it currently has, using substrate and trimming the roots, as well as up to 1/3 of the length of the stems, and adding new soil.

For its part, the University of Wisconsin-Madison extension indicates keeping these plants away from strong drafts as additional care for their well-being.

According to the IRS, in a statement published on October 16, 2026, the adjustments began in late September and will continue over the coming months. The agency expects to complete most of the corresponding refunds before the end of 2026.

Who can receive the IRS automatic refunds?

The measure is aimed at certain taxpayers who had unused adoption tax credits from prior years and who can apply them to the calculation of their 2025 benefit.

According to the official IRS questions and answers, the following conditions must be met to qualify for the automatic adjustment:

• Have filed a federal tax return for tax year 2025 using Form 1040, 1040-SR, or 1040-NR.
• Have claimed or have been eligible to claim the adoption tax credit using Form 8839.
• Have adoption credits from prior years that could still be used in 2025.
• Have information on the return and in the tax account that allows the IRS to determine that the refundable portion of the credit should be increased.

In particular, the agency says that outstanding credits originating between 2020 and 2024 may be considered, as long as they remain available for use in 2025.

However, not everyone who claimed the adoption credit will receive money. The adjustment depends on the individual tax situation and the information available in IRS records.

How much money can the IRS return to taxpayers?

The change responds to a new interpretation by the Treasury Department regarding the tax provisions related to the adoption credit.

For tax year 2025 only, outstanding adoption credits from prior years can increase the refundable portion of the benefit, with a limit of US$ 5,000 per eligible child.

This does not mean that all taxpayers will receive that amount. The actual amount depends on factors such as available credits, the number of eligible children, income limits, and each person’s tax obligations.

In addition, the adjustment may produce different results, such as refunds, a reduction in the outstanding tax balance, or no change in the amount to be received.

Do you need to take any steps to receive the IRS refund?

The IRS explained that most eligible taxpayers do not need to file an amended return to receive the adjustment.

In general, those who filed their return for 2025 before April 15, 2026, will automatically receive the corresponding correction, as long as the agency has the necessary information.

On the other hand, returns filed with an extension and accounts with unresolved issues, such as identity verification or conflicts related to dependents, may be reviewed later in 2026.

In certain cases, when information on prior-year adoption credits is missing, it may be necessary to file an amended return.

How do you know whether the IRS made the refund?

The agency will send a notice to taxpayers whose accounts are adjusted, generally within 30 days after the modification.

The notice will indicate the amount of the adjustment and explain whether it generated a refund or whether the money was applied to a tax debt or another outstanding obligation.

Taxpayers can also consult the updated information for their account through the IRS digital platform.

The agency warned that costs and timelines increased compared with initial forecasts and that weaknesses in forecasting mechanisms still remain.

Why the United States is rebuilding its four naval shipyards

The SIOP program began in 2018 to address the deterioration of the facilities and the capacity limitations affecting maintenance of the U.S. fleet.

The four public shipyards fulfill a strategic role: they make it possible to repair, maintain and modernize nuclear-powered vessels, including aircraft carriers and attack submarines. Infrastructure deficiencies can make these jobs difficult and affect the availability of the vessels for military operations.

What the four naval shipyards are

The four public shipyards of the Armed Forces are:

• Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY)
• Portsmouth Naval Shipyard (PNSY)
• Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility (PSNS&IMF)
• Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility (PHNSY&IMF)

What work the Navy needs to modernize its shipyards

The United States Navy needs to modernize dry docks, refurbish industrial equipment and upgrade facilities and computer systems at its four public shipyards. The SIOP seeks to adapt these facilities to the maintenance needs of nuclear-powered aircraft carriers and submarines.

According to the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA), many of these shipyards were designed between the 19th and 20th centuries, when vessels used conventional propulsion systems. For that reason, they require investment to meet the technical demands of the current fleet.

How much the reconstruction will cost

The projected investment exceeds $200 billion and the program could last more than half a century. The figure reflects the scale of an initiative that is not limited to repairing buildings: it also includes adapting the infrastructure needed to sustain fleet maintenance over the coming decades.

The GAO explained that the initiative has become the largest construction and restoration effort in the Navy to date. However, planning took longer than expected and cost estimates grew due to various obstacles, including environmental issues and the seismic risks identified at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard.

What boiling basil, rosemary, and orange peel is used for

The goal of this combination is to neutralize strong odors and scent the rooms naturally. When boiled, the steam carries the aromas of the herbs and peel, spreads through the house, and helps cover and mask strong smells, especially in the kitchen and in enclosed spaces. In practice, it works like a natural stove air freshener.

The explanation lies in the essential oils of each ingredient, which are volatile: with heat they are released and pass into the steam, which disperses them through the room. Orange peel provides limonene, the compound responsible for the typical citrus, fresh, and powerful aroma used to cover odors. Rosemary adds its characteristic smell, marked by compounds such as cineole (eucalyptol) and camphor.

And basil provides a herbal and sweet fragrance, due to compounds such as linalool. The combination of citrus, herbal, and woody notes is what gives that enveloping aroma associated with cleanliness and freshness.

Step by step: how to make the mixture

The preparation is very simple:

• Fill a pot with water and put it on the heat.
• Add a few rosemary sprigs, a few basil leaves, and the peel of one or two oranges, previously washed.
• Bring to a boil and then lower the heat so it slowly releases aroma, on very low heat.
• Let the steam spread through the house, keeping an eye on the pot.

Why it is recommended

Beyond the result, the appeal is that it is a natural, cheap, and handy alternative to commercial air fresheners. It uses ingredients that are usually found in any kitchen, does not leave the air filled with aerosol chemicals, makes use of leftovers that are normally thrown away, such as orange peel, and allows you to adjust the intensity of the aroma to taste, depending on how many herbs and how much peel are used. In addition, as it disperses with the steam, the fragrance reaches the entire room, something a spray cannot achieve.

Eligible individuals can receive up to $994 under the federal SSI payment rates for 2026. However, the amount varies depending on income, living arrangements, and other eligibility factors, so not every recipient will receive the maximum payment.

Who qualifies for the November SSI payment?

SSI provides financial assistance to people with limited income and resources who are 65 or older, blind, or have a qualifying disability. Children with qualifying disabilities may also qualify if they meet the program’s financial requirements.

Applicants must also meet the program’s citizenship or eligible noncitizen rules and residency requirements. The SSA generally limits countable resources to $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple, although some assets are excluded from these calculations.

How much will eligible recipients receive?

The maximum federal SSI payment in 2026 is $994 per month for an eligible individual and $1,491 for an eligible couple. The amount a person receives may be lower if they have countable income or if their living arrangements affect their benefits.

Some states also provide supplemental payments that can increase the total amount. The October 30 deposit is the regular November benefit paid ahead of schedule, not an extra check or bonus. The next SSI payment after that is scheduled for December 1, 2026.

The property is Mission Ranch, a former dairy located in Carmel-by-the-Sea that was close to becoming a condominium complex. The deal was completed in 1986 and marked the start of a restoration process that preserved historic buildings and prevented the property from losing its original identity.

Today, the place operates as a hotel and restaurant, with rooms spread across restored buildings, green meadows, and dreamlike views of the Pacific Ocean. What may have been a new residential development at that time became a tourist destination that preserves part of California coast history.

Clint Eastwood bought the ranch in 1986 to stop a real estate project

In 1986, Clint Eastwood stepped in to save Mission Ranch, a property that was at risk of losing its original buildings to make way for a condominium development project. According to the Los Angeles Times, in December of that year, the owners had proposed building 61 homes and the project had sparked a local dispute over the preservation of heritage and the area’s wetlands.

The Hollywood actor, who that year had been elected mayor of Carmel, decided to buy the land to preserve its natural character. The UPI agency reported that the deal was estimated at US$5.5 million and that the actor had committed to protecting the property from developers.

In this regard, the history of Mission Ranch also confirms that the acquisition made it possible to rescue the place from the real estate project where, instead of demolishing the buildings, Eastwood promoted their restoration and adapted them to maintain the property’s hotel use. The Monterey County document notes that the intervention made it possible to cancel the authorization that allowed the demolition of the historic buildings and the implementation of the private condominium project.

The history of Mission Ranch: from old dairy farm to historic property

The origins of Mission Ranch date back to the 19th century; according to the history published by the establishment itself, the land originally covered about 160 acres and passed into the hands of William Curtis in 1852. During the 1850s, it became one of California’s first dairy farms, where cheese and butter were produced, while the barns were used to store hay and milk animals.

Over time, the property had different uses and owners. During World War II, it operated as an officers’ club for the U.S. Army and Navy. Later, it became a lodging and dining establishment, until the deterioration of its buildings and the real estate development plan put its continuity at risk.

The restoration promoted by Eastwood sought to preserve the site’s architectural identity. According to the official Mission Ranch website, craftsmen were hired to reproduce moldings, door frames, and hardware in keeping with the original buildings. The preservation work received the California Governor’s Historic Preservation Award in 1994, according to an official Monterey County document.

What is the hotel that preserves the ranch overlooking the Pacific like today?

Currently, Mission Ranch operates as a hotel and restaurant on a 22-acre property, with views of the Pacific Ocean, Carmel River Beach, and Point Lobos. According to its official website, the accommodation has 31 rooms distributed across ten buildings, surrounded by gardens, historic trees, and a meadow where sheep graze.

The transformation preserved several elements of the old dairy operation. The restaurant occupies what was once the ranch’s creamery, while other buildings that had formerly been used as barns were restored and adapted to new uses, such as the former dance barn, which was also preserved as part of the establishment’s heritage.

In the United States, the Departments of Transportation and Environmental Management of the State of Rhode Island recommend this alternative in order to reduce the use of harsh chemical cleaners.

What pouring vinegar and baking soda into the toilet is for

Vinegar contains acetic acid, while baking soda is an alkaline substance. When combined, they generate carbon dioxide bubbles that can help loosen residue stuck to toilet surfaces.

The mixture can be used to:

• Loosen surface dirt: it helps detach some residue accumulated in the bowl.
• Make cleaning easier: the effervescence can help loosen debris before scrubbing.
• Reduce mild odors: cleaning the bowl and removing residue can help control bad odors.

How to apply it correctly

1. Add baking soda: spread approximately 1/4 cup inside the toilet bowl.
2. Add white vinegar: slowly pour 1 cup over the baking soda.
3. Let it work: wait between 15 and 30 minutes for the reaction to help loosen the residue.
4. Scrub with the brush: clean the inner walls and the areas where dirt builds up.
5. Flush the toilet: flush to remove the residue and check the result.

Why it is important

Cleaning with vinegar and baking soda helps prevent residue, stains, and bad odors from building up. It also makes it possible to identify in time mineral deposits or dirt that require specific treatment; and it helps reduce the use of harsh chemical cleaners.

What products should not be mixed with vinegar or baking soda

The main precaution is to not combine this preparation with commercial products that have already been applied to the toilet, such as:

• Chlorine or bleach.
• Commercial toilet cleaners.
• Drain cleaners.

In this context and as happens with all federal holidays, both banks and several private-sector businesses and nonessential government offices suspend in-person service to the public.

The Social Security payment schedule is also changed because of this holiday, which will mean that a group of beneficiaries will receive their money earlier than normally expected.

Why does the whole country take a weekday off on November 11

Declared a legal holiday in 1938, Veterans Day -which only adopted its name in 1954- is a date intended to honor all people who served in the United States Armed Forces, as USA.gov explains.

“That day is celebrated with tributes, parades and solemn ceremonies. However, the most important celebration is the ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington Cemetery, near Washington, D.C.,” it states.

Although this year November 11 will fall on a Wednesday, it is important to know that, if the date falls on a Saturday, the holiday is observed on Friday, and if it falls on a Sunday it is commemorated on Monday.

Bank closure next November 11

As happens on all federal holidays, the country’s different banks pause in-person service at all branches.

Those who need to carry out simple transactions can count on the routine operation of ATMs and banking apps, although it is advisable to check the official website of each institution in case there are schedule changes that need to be known.

SSA payment calendar: when the money is advanced and for which beneficiaries

According to what is set out in the official November 2026 payment calendar, beneficiaries born between the 1st and the 10th who usually collect on the second Wednesday of the month, will receive their payment in advance on Tuesday the 10th, exceptionally.

This month, payments for those who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) will also be advanced, because the first of the month -the date on which they usually collect their money- will fall on Sunday, so it moves to Friday, October 30, which is the first previous business day.

The changes stem from House Bill 24-1021 and expand formal driver education requirements to groups that previously did not have to complete a course. Applicants who fail to meet the new standards will not receive their permits.

Who will need training to get a Colorado learner’s permit?

Starting January 1, 2027, the requirements will apply to people under 21 applying for a new instruction permit. The Colorado Department of Motor Vehicles has outlined the following rules:

• Applicants aged 15 to 17 must complete an approved 30-hour driver education course before receiving a permit.
• Applicants aged 18 to 20 must complete either a 30-hour driver education course or a four-hour driver awareness program.
• Motorcycle permit applicants under 21 must complete a motorcycle safety training program approved by the Colorado State Patrol.

The change is particularly significant for applicants aged 16 and 17, who previously did not have to complete a formal driver education course. Those aged 18 to 20 will also face a new mandatory training requirement, although they can choose the shorter program.

What happens if applicants do not complete the required training?

Applicants who do not complete the required driver education course or awareness program will not be eligible to receive a learner’s permit. The new rules make training a mandatory step before young drivers can begin practicing behind the wheel under a permit.

The existing graduated driver licensing requirements will also remain in place. Drivers under 18 must hold their learner’s permit for at least 12 months and complete 50 hours of supervised driving, including 10 hours at night, before qualifying for a license.

The couple appealed the ruling, and Myers later agreed to deposit $5,000 a month into a court account while the appeals were pending. He subsequently claimed that the bank broke that agreement when it moved forward with the foreclosure process.

On October 19, 2026, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit upheld the dismissal of Myers’s lawsuit, rejecting his challenge to the lower court’s decision. The ruling did not reopen the original foreclosure case; it addressed his later claims against the bank.

Why the Florida couple faced foreclosure

The dispute began in 2009, when U.S. Bank National Association, acting as trustee for a mortgage-backed securities trust, filed a foreclosure action against Myers and Kelly in Florida state court.

Kelly had originally purchased the Naples property with a mortgage and later transferred ownership to herself and Myers. The state court ultimately ruled in favor of the bank, finding that the couple had missed 66 monthly payments.

Myers and Kelly appealed the foreclosure judgment. While those appeals were underway, Myers filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in Maryland. The filing temporarily halted certain collection and foreclosure actions, prompting the bank to seek permission from the bankruptcy court to continue the legal process.

The parties reached an agreement in November 2016. It allowed their appeals to proceed and set conditions for what would happen if the foreclosure judgment was upheld.

The $5,000 monthly payments and the agreement with the bank

Under a consent order entered by the Maryland bankruptcy court on November 14, 2016, Myers was required to deposit $5,000 each month into the court registry until the state appeals were resolved.

Myers later claimed that he had deposited a total of $70,000. Under the agreement, if the state appeals court upheld the foreclosure judgment, the bank could receive the funds, but it had to credit the amount against any debt collected from Myers or Kelly.

The order also restricted the foreclosure sale only until the appeals were finally resolved in the bank’s favor. It did not permanently prevent the bank from proceeding with the sale.

In 2018, a Florida appeals court upheld the foreclosure judgment and rejected the couple’s challenges. That decision ended the appeals that had temporarily delayed the foreclosure sale.

Why Myers sued the bank again

In 2024, Myers filed another lawsuit against U.S. Bank, a law firm and several individuals. He argued that efforts to schedule a foreclosure sale violated the 2016 agreement and alleged breach of contract, constructive fraud and violations of federal debt collection law.

After the court dismissed his initial complaint, Myers amended it. However, the federal district court later dismissed the revised lawsuit with prejudice, meaning he could not continue pursuing the same claims through another amendment in that case.

The court found that Myers had not adequately explained how the bank breached the agreement. It also concluded that his fraud allegations lacked the necessary factual support and that his claim under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act was untimely.

What the October 19 ruling means

Myers appealed the dismissal, arguing that the lower court had handled his claims incorrectly and should have given him another opportunity to amend his complaint.

The Eleventh Circuit disagreed. The judges upheld the dismissal, concluding that Myers’s allegations were not sufficient to establish a breach-of-contract claim. The court also found no error in the lower court’s decision to dismiss the case with prejudice.

The appeals court noted that Myers had abandoned his challenges to the dismissal of the fraud and debt collection claims by failing to properly pursue them in his appeal. It therefore focused on the breach-of-contract issue.

The ruling leaves the dismissal of Myers’s later lawsuit in place. It does not represent a new foreclosure judgment: the original foreclosure ruling had already been upheld in 2018. The October 2026 decision concerns the separate lawsuit Myers brought years later over the agreement governing the appeals.

Wednesday, October 28, 2026 will be a key date for those included in the month’s fourth payment group.

In this regard, the date of birth and the schedule assigned by the SSA are key factors in identifying the beneficiaries who will receive the deposit, while those who began collecting in other periods may have different dates.

The payment date is not the same for all retirees, since the SSA distributes payments according to the day of birth and follows a different schedule for those who began receiving benefits before May 1997.

Who will receive Social Security on Wednesday, October 28, 2026?

On Wednesday, October 28, 2026, the SSA plans to make the fourth monthly October payment for beneficiaries included in the usual schedule for Wednesdays. The beneficiaries who will receive Social Security on October 28, 2026 are only those who were born between the 21st and the 31st of any month and receive retirement benefits included in that schedule.

It should be noted that those who began receiving Social Security before May 1997 usually receive payment on the 3rd of each month, while those who receive both Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) have a different payment schedule.

How does the Social Security payment schedule work according to date of birth?

The SSA organizes monthly payments of Social Security into three groups, according to the birth date of the person whose work history is used to calculate the benefit. For those included in this system, the dates are distributed as follows:

• Born from the 1st to the 10th: Are paid on the second Wednesday of each month.
• Born from the 11th to the 20th: Are paid on the third Wednesday of each month.
• Born from the 21st to the 31st: Are paid on the fourth Wednesday of each month.

When will the next Social Security payment be after October 28?

After Wednesday, October 28, regular November payments will be distributed according to the SSA schedule:

• Tuesday, November 10: Beneficiaries born from the 1st to the 10th. The payment is brought forward one day since Wednesday the 11th is a holiday for Veterans Day.
• Wednesday, November 18: Beneficiaries born from the 11th to the 20th.
• Wednesday, November 25: Beneficiaries born from the 21st to the 31st.

To obtain it, it is not only necessary to submit Form DS-11 but also to gather essential evidence to deliver to the authorized center, which must be provided in the format indicated by the authorities.

On this point, the State Department makes it clear that under no circumstances will digital evidence be accepted; it must be provided in physical form.

Passports are not processed with digital proof of citizenship: the documents applicants may present

“We do not accept digital proof of U.S. citizenship, such as a mobile or electronic birth certificate. You must present physical proof of citizenship,” states the State Department.

To meet this requirement, it is possible to present proof of citizenship primary or secondary:

Primary proof of citizenship

• Birth certificate in the United States
• A valid, undamaged American passport (for example, for minors under 16 who cannot renew)
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Birth Certificate Abroad
• Naturalization certificate
• Certificate of citizenship

Secondary proof of citizenship

When none of the documents listed above can be presented, the following may be provided:

• A delayed birth certificate
• A Letter of No Record
• Early records or public documents such as a baptismal certificate, hospital birth certificate, U.S. census record, etc.

Those who cannot present either primary or secondary proof will have to request a file search if they ever had an American passport or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad. This is done by completing the file search request and including it in the process.

The full steps to apply for an American passport for the first time

This procedure must be carried out by those who:

• Are applying for the passport for the first time
• Need to apply for a copy due to theft, loss, or severe damage
• Have a copy issued more than 15 years ago or from when they were under 16
• Changed their name legally and do not have a document to prove it

To carry out the process, it will be necessary to bring the following documents to a passport acceptance facility or an authorized center:

• Completed and printed Form DS-11
• Proof of citizenship in an acceptable format
• Photo ID, such as a driver’s license
• Photocopies of the proof of citizenship and the identity document
• Acceptable photograph
• Pay the required fees

Once issued, this type of copy is valid for a maximum of 10 years.

This Tuesday, November 3, will be an official holiday in some states

November 3, 2026, is Election Day, the day when the midterm elections are held across the country. Several states declare by law that this day, the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November, in general election years, is an official holiday, intended to make voting easier. However, it is not a federal holiday: that is why the day off applies only in the states that establish it as such, and not in the rest of the country.

One by one, which states will have a holiday

According to the review of official calendars, Election Day appears as a state holiday on November 3 in the following ten states:

• Delaware
• Hawaii
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Louisiana
• Michigan
• New Jersey
• New York
• Rhode Island
• Virginia

Public offices and schools close

In the states on the list, the day off mainly applies to state public employees, and it is common for many schools to close, partly because several school buildings are used as voting centers.

In contrast, since it is not a federal holiday, the rest of the country works as usual. Banks, the mail service (USPS), and financial markets operate normally throughout the United States, even in the states where it is a holiday. Therefore, rather than a general day of rest, it is a holiday limited to the state level and, above all, to the public sector.

According to SB360 Capital Partners, the firm in charge of organizing the closing sales, the liquidation began on October 8, 2026. The process includes furniture, mattresses, and rugs, with discounts and new markdowns expected as the sale progresses.

Which furniture chain is closing in the United States after 128 years?

Haynes Furniture is a family-owned company that developed its business activity mainly in Virginia. Its history dates back to 1898, and for four generations, it was linked to the sale of furniture and home goods.

Over the years, the family also developed The Dump Luxe Furniture Outlets, a chain specializing in furniture from well-known brands, luxury products, and items from excess inventory or previous collections.

The company’s chief executive described the closure as the end of a chapter for the family, its employees, and the customers who accompanied the business for generations.

The company confirmed that both brands will cease operations permanently, although it did not give a single date for the final closure of all locations.

Where are the 12 furniture stores closing in the United States?

The announcement includes four Haynes Furniture locations in Virginia and eight The Dump locations, distributed across five states.

The stores included in the process are:

Haynes Furniture, Virginia

• Newport News: 12620 Jefferson Avenue.
• Richmond: 6550 Hull Street Road.
• Richmond: 9515 West Broad Street.
• Virginia Beach: 5324 Virginia Beach Boulevard.

The Dump Luxe Furniture Outlets

• Arizona: Tempe, 1345 West Elliot Road.
• Georgia: Atlanta, 815 Sidney Marcus Boulevard.
• Illinois: Deerfield, 250 South Waukegan Road.
• Illinois: Lombard, 2860 South Highland Avenue.
• Texas: Houston, 10251 North Freeway.
• Texas: Irving, 2700 Ranch Trail.
• Virginia: Norfolk, 801 North Military Highway.
• Virginia: Richmond, 7204 Brook Road.

The company included these locations in its official closure announcement. However, hours and product availability may vary during the liquidation.

What will the $100 million liquidation of Haynes Furniture and The Dump be like?

The liquidation began on Thursday, October 8, 2026, and is being organized with the collaboration of SB360 Capital Partners.

According to a second company statement, The Dump sale includes merchandise with an approximate retail value of $100 million.

Among the items offered are:

• Furniture for different rooms in the home.
• Mattresses from well-known brands.
• Rugs and decorative pieces.
• Luxury products and items from previous collections.

The company said there will be significant discounts and new price cuts during the liquidation process.

How long will Haynes Furniture and The Dump stores remain open?

The statement confirmed the permanent closure of both chains but did not set a definitive date for the last day of service at each branch.

For that reason, those who wish to take advantage of the liquidation should check directly with the stores to find out the hours, the available products, and the purchase conditions.

The company said the discounts will continue during the closure process, which will mark the end of a commercial history of 128 years in the United States.

In this context, Iowa State University, in the United States, recommends using a combination of baking soda and white vinegar as part of drain cleaning. The procedure consists of placing both ingredients, letting them act for a few minutes, and rinsing with water.

What is pouring baking soda and vinegar down the kitchen drain for?

Iowa State University includes this procedure among its recommendations for keeping different areas of the kitchen clean, especially those that come into contact with food scraps.

When baking soda and white vinegar are combined, a reaction occurs that produces foam. According to the institution’s instructions, the mixture should remain in the drain for a certain amount of time before rinsing.

This method is presented as an alternative to include in the regular cleaning of the drain, along with other kitchen maintenance tasks.

How do you clean the kitchen drain with baking soda and vinegar?

The university details a procedure that uses specific amounts of both ingredients.

1. Pour half a cup of baking soda directly into the drain.
2. Add a cup of white vinegar over the baking soda.
3. Let the mixture act for 10 to 15 minutes while the foam forms.
4. Rinse with boiling water, according to the university’s instructions.

In addition, the institution recommends cleaning the garbage disposal parts, when there is one, and washing sink strainers or filters daily to remove food scraps.

The procedure is part of the cleaning recommendations published by the university in May 2026.

What other recommendations does the university give to keep the kitchen clean?

In addition to the drain, Iowa State University highlights the importance of regularly cleaning other surfaces and utensils that come into contact with food.

Its recommendations include:

• Clean the kitchen sink with soap and water to remove dirt before applying an appropriate disinfectant product.
• Change kitchen cloths daily and wash them with hot water.
• Clean and disinfect cutting boards after using them, especially when they have come into contact with raw meat.
• Keep countertops and work surfaces clean to reduce the risk of food contamination.

The institution reminds readers that cleaning and disinfecting are different tasks. While cleaning removes dirt and organic residue, disinfecting seeks to reduce or eliminate microorganisms through appropriate products and procedures.