Economic Developments\n\nPresident Trump conducted a rally in Pennsylvania, stating that making America affordable is his highest priority. He asserted that prices are decreasing and presented individuals who reportedly benefit from tax cuts enacted earlier in the year. Reports indicated that the 90-minute speech contained no new policy announcements. Trump attributed current economic challenges to conditions inherited upon taking office and referenced a decrease in gas prices by approximately 8 cents per gallon compared to the previous year, according to GasBuddy. This reduction has been noted as not fully offsetting other consumer costs, such as utility bills and healthcare expenses.\n\nThe Federal Reserve is projected to reduce its benchmark interest rate by a quarter percentage point today. This action aims to support a weakening job market, although policymakers show division on whether inflation control should be prioritized. A six-week government shutdown has led to delays in data availability, adding complexity to the decision-making process.\n\n* Reports highlighted an unusual degree of disagreement within the Fed.\n* The previous Fed meeting included two dissenting votes: one member advocated for less aggressive rate cuts, while another favored faster action.\n* Instances of three or four dissents are rare, with the last occurrence of four dissents being 33 years prior.\n\n### International Affairs and Military Personnel\n\nA community of Afghan soldiers who collaborated with the CIA against the Taliban has reported feeling abandoned by the agency. Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a member of this community, has been accused in connection with the shooting of two National Guard troops last month. Investigations into these "Zero Units" have indicated that some former combatants have experienced mental and emotional distress, with at least four documented suicides.\n\n* Zero Unit fighters who relocated to the U.S. expected recognition and opportunities for new lives following their combat service.\n* Instead, they encountered complexities within the immigration process.\n* One fighter, identified as Davud, stated that attempts to seek assistance from the CIA often yield no response.\n* President Trump has publicly questioned the continued presence of many of these individuals in the U.S.\n\n### Lifestyle and Culture\n\nHealth and Aging:\n\nA series titled "Living Better" explored how alcohol tolerance can change with age. Scientific studies suggest that liver enzymes responsible for metabolizing alcohol become less efficient over time. Additionally, age-related muscle mass loss, which stores water and helps dilute blood alcohol, can contribute to increased sensitivity. For women experiencing perimenopause, alcohol consumption may intensify symptoms associated with hormonal fluctuations, such as mood swings and irritability. Health risks associated with alcohol, including liver disease and exacerbated high blood pressure, generally increase with age, suggesting that reducing consumption may be beneficial.\n\nCultural Exhibitions:\n\n* Nutcracker Museum: Arlene Wagner, aged 101, oversees the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum in Washington, which houses over 9,000 nutcrackers. The collection spans two millennia, featuring items from 50 countries, including one documented from 200 A.D.\n* Krampus Tradition: Krampus, a figure from European folklore, is depicted as a counterpart to Santa Claus, intended to discourage misbehavior in children.\n* Hair Museum Closure: Leila's Hair Museum in Independence, Missouri, ceased operations in September. The founder's granddaughter is currently managing the relocation of its 3,000-piece human hair wreath collection.\n\n### Music\n\nRaul Malo, leader of the band The Mavericks, died Monday night at the age of 60.