Christmas carols, Santa Claus and decorated trees – these are a few of the things commonly associated with the most festive time of the year. And while many children have to deal with the eventual disappointment that there’s no jolly old man from the North Pole delivering them gifts if they’re nice enough, others have to deal with some rather strange and downright scary figures from their cultures. Below are five of the most bizarre Christmas characters from around the world.

1. Krampus

For naughty children outside of Central Europe, a lump of coal in your stocking is a thousand times better than being whisked away and punished by a half-demon goat named Krampus. This figure has pagan origins but was eventually incorporated into the Chistian tradition. He even has his own festival called Krampusnacht during which the famed Krampus Run takes place. It’s that time of the year where men, dressed as the demon, roam the streets beating bad people with bundles of birch twigs. 

2. Frau Perchta

Certain parts of Germany and Austria have a character named Frau Perchta who pays them a visit during the 12 days of Christmas. She is described as a crone with an animalistic face and a long robe with a sharp knife hidden underneath. Is she friendly or mean? Well, that depends on how naughty or nice you’ve been. It’s not your behavior that she judges but whether you have spun all your wool or flax into yarn by the end of the twelfth night. Those who have will get a gift. And those who didn’t? Well, they will be disemboweled, stuffed with straw then sewn back up!

3. Kallikantzaroi

In southeastern European countries, the 12 days of Christmas mark the arrival of the Kallikantzaroi – small, black, impish spirits who live deep in the center of Earth where they spend their time hacking at the fabled World Tree that supports said planet. It’s during this time that they’ll shift their focus to you, with the intent of wreaking havoc in your home and the world at large. Hanging the jaw of a pig on the door or even some flax will keep them at bay. The latter will keep them occupied as they can’t help but obsessively count the strands! 

4. Gryla and the Yule Cat

Iceland isn’t any different than its neighbors when it comes to shady Christmas figures. For them it’s Gryla and the Yule Cat – a cannibalistic, repulsive giantess and her bad-tempered Yule Cat named Jolakotturinn. Together, the pair instill fear in the hearts of Icelandic children; Gryla stuffs bad children in her sack to devour later, while her Yule Cat eats children who are still wearing their old clothes. In Iceland, because children are rewarded with new clothes for doing their chores, wearing old ones is seen as naughty. And Jolakotturinn is said to be the one to deliver the punishment.

5. The Yule Goat

The Yule Goat is nothing like Gryla’s grumpy Yule Cat. Unlike the duo, he comes to spread joy and give presents to good children with Father Christmas. The jolly old man did not always have his sleigh pulled by reindeer – this was a job done by the Yule Goat who is said to be a descendant of Thor’s two goats who pulled his chariot. Many people in Sweden still honor the folklore by hanging small straw goat decorations on their trees. The Swedish town of Gavle erects a giant Yule Goat every year, which suspiciously catches fire every single time!

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How To Qualify for The Housing Voucher Program

Are you wondering how to get approved for housing voucher program? Our no-nonsense guide dives straight into eligibility requirements, necessary documentation, and application insights you need for successful approval. With focused, bite-sized information, expect to gain clear direction without getting lost in the details.

Understanding the Housing Choice Voucher Program

The Housing Choice Voucher Program is a powerful tool in the fight against poverty and homelessness. This federal program aims to assist families with very low incomes by helping them find safe, decent, and affordable privately owned rental housing through the use of housing choice vouchers. Participants are responsible for paying 30% of their monthly adjusted gross income towards rent and utilities while the program covers the remaining amount up to a specific limit. One of this program’s greatest strengths is its flexibility, allowing participants to choose from a wide variety of suitable homes that meet all necessary requirements. The ultimate objective is providing eligible individuals and families with financial aid every month so they can secure stable shelter options and move into safer neighborhoods.

The Role of HUD and PHAs

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) oversees this initiative, providing federal funding while the local level is responsible for implementation. Local Public Housing Agencies (PHAs), acting as key players in the program, receive funds from HUD to manage housing vouchers and oversee operations at a community level. Within federally established guidelines, PHAs have autonomy in determining which families will benefit from the program. They offer various services such as project-based vouchers that are tied to specific residential developments, and homeownership vouchers aimed at assisting with ongoing mortgage payments.

Types of Housing Covered

The voucher program allows for a variety of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses and apartments. It is not limited to any specific type of housing and extends to both privately owned properties and subsidized projects. To be eligible for the program, participants must ensure that their chosen housing meets certain criteria such as size, rent affordability and compliance with Housing Quality Standards (HQS). They have the choice between selecting new accommodation or remaining in their current home if it fulfills these requirements.

Eligibility Criteria for the Housing Voucher Program

In order to qualify for a spot in the Housing Choice Voucher Program, applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements. Local Public Housing Agencies (PHAs) are responsible for determining eligibility based on factors such as annual income and family size. The income threshold varies depending on where one lives, their family size, and other circumstances. Priority is typically given to those who fall under the extremely low-income limits. Eligibility also takes into account an individual’s familial status – single individuals without children may still be eligible while those with documented disabilities could potentially receive preference or special accommodations. PHAs consider an applicant’s citizenship or eligible immigration status as well as any previous criminal history when making their determination.

Income Limits and Area Median Income

The eligibility criteria for the Housing Choice Voucher Program heavily relies on income limits, which are determined by the Area Median Income (AMI). This is equivalent to HUD’s estimations of Median Family Income (MFI) in cities and counties. When admitting families into housing voucher programs, Public Housing Agencies (PHAs) must ensure that their incomes fall between 50 percent and 80 percent of the AMI. At least three-quarters of new admissions should have an income equal or lower than 30 percent of the AMI. To account for varying costs of living and household earnings in a specific region, these income limits are adjusted accordingly. Some areas with high rental prices may receive special adjustments while low-income regions or places with notably high or low family incomes could see variances from median family income calculations.

Family Status and Composition

Eligibility and voucher amounts are heavily influenced by the number of individuals in a family as well as their income. Typically, larger families have higher income limits for eligibility purposes. It is crucial to provide documentation that verifies both the size and composition of a family, as this can greatly impact their level of assistance. Special rules also apply to households with disabled members. It is important to accurately list any live-in aides on the application and adhere to specific regulations. Applicants should ensure that the housing unit they plan on renting aligns with the amount of bedrooms allotted on their received voucher based on family size.

Citizenship and Immigration Status

The eligibility for the Housing Choice Voucher Program is determined by one’s citizenship and immigration status. The program allows assistance to be provided to:

• U.S. citizens who meet specific criteria set by HUD.
• Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs)
• Refugees
• Asylees

Other eligible non-citizens must adhere to the Public Charge rule, which requires them to demonstrate self-sufficiency in order not lose their Section 8 housing benefits due to reliance on public assistance. Proof of eligibility from USCIS documentation is necessary. Families that have both citizen and ineligible non-citizen members may receive prorated housing assistance depending on the number of qualified individuals within the household. Unfortunately, undocumented immigrants and those in transit are not able to receive support through this voucher program as they do not fit into its guidelines. In summary, being a part of either group - lawfully residing citizens or other qualifying non-citizens - makes an individual potentially eligible for section 8 housing choice vouchers. All recipients still need follow some rules: avoid becoming reliant upon social services if possible and document accordingly via different means with governmental officials like you might find at United States Citizenship Immigration Services offices where papers also grant home choices fate under legal provisions ensuring certain semi-permanent residency here during search timeframes so long live dream state living!

Criminal Background and Eviction History

A person’s current eligibility for the Housing Choice Voucher Program can be impacted by their past, including criminal background and eviction history. Factors such as involvement in drug or criminal activity, manufacturing methamphetamine within subsidized housing areas, and present use of illegal substances may result in an immediate denial of a Section 8 application. To determine an applicant’s eligibility for section 8 vouchers, HUD conducts Criminal Offender Registry (CORI) checks and requires Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) to screen both prior convictions and recent arrests from the last five years. If applicants are denied preference or priority status for voucher assistance based on their criminal record or previous evictions, they have the right to request a conference to appeal this decision.

Preparing Your Application

The key to a successful application for the Housing Choice Voucher Program is careful preparation. The process starts with contacting your nearby Public Housing Agency. It’s important to note that even students in college may be eligible for Section 8 housing benefits, as long as they meet specific criteria or exceptions. Accurate and thorough completion of the housing choice voucher application is crucial. Any missing or incorrect information could result in denial of the application. It is essential to double-check all details provided on the form and make sure they are current and accurate.

Required Documents

The process of applying for the Housing Choice Voucher Program is similar to other application processes in that it relies heavily on documentation. Those interested must provide evidence of their income, which may include a series of recent paychecks, an official statement notarized by a witness, letters from Social Security indicating benefits received, bank statements from within the last month or two as well as forms confirming any child support payments made. Applicants who receive Food Stamps or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families should also submit award letters if applicable. Apart from verifying income sources and amounts to determine eligibility and level of assistance provided through this housing program, confirmation documents establishing family size are equally vital. Proof of citizenship status or acceptable immigration standing along with verification papers such as utility bills can demonstrate residency at your current address all need to be ready when filling out applications pertaining to The Housing Choice Voucher Program.

Tips for Completing the Application

Completing the application requires a meticulous approach. It is important to be honest and provide accurate information in order to avoid any delays or rejections. Make sure to carefully read through all sections of the application, including the fine print, so that you understand what is required and its potential consequences. When filling out your application, it is crucial that you check off the appropriate priority boxes as this directly impacts how it will be evaluated. Remember not to overlook even small details as they can greatly affect your chances of being approved for whatever you are applying for.

Navigating the Waiting List

Once your application for the Housing Choice Voucher Program has been approved, you will need to navigate the waiting list. This is a list of all individuals and families who have been approved for vouchers but are currently on hold until an available spot opens up. Public Housing Agencies (PHAs) can choose to close their waiting lists at any time if necessary. The amount of time one must wait varies greatly and can sometimes last several years. PHAs use this waiting list as a way to prioritize applicants and may establish certain preferences when selecting from it. In some cases where the waiting lists are closed, states may conduct lottery drawings in order to determine placement of new applicants. To increase chances of obtaining affordable housing through this program, it’s recommended that individuals apply at multiple locations. In order to check their position on a particular public housing agency’s waitlist, applicants should contact them directly or search online if possible. It’s important for potential beneficiaries of this voucher program not to give up hope even though they might face long waits before being granted access to affordable housing options through these crucial public resources.

How the Waiting List Works

The waiting list structure has been carefully designed to prioritize those in urgent need. Public Housing Authorities give preference to low income families based on their level of income, with extremely low-income households being prioritized first followed by very low-income and then low-income families. Special consideration may be given to elderly individuals (aged 62 and older) or disabled persons who are experiencing worsening living conditions due to their disability. Preferences offered by federally funded housing programs like Section 8 can vary depending on the discretion of housing agencies or landlords. Applicants who meet certain priority criteria have the opportunity for a quicker move up the waiting list and it is crucial that they inform housing authorities if there are any changes in their situation which could potentially make them eligible for these preferences. In order to improve their chances of receiving a coveted housing choice voucher, applicants can apply simultaneously at multiple Public Housing Authorities thus increasing their presence on various waiting lists at once.

Staying Informed and Active

During the period of time that you are on the waiting list for Section 8, it is important to be active and well-informed. To navigate this process smoothly, here are some useful tips.

1. Keep thorough records of all your interactions with both PHA (Public Housing Agency) and HUD (Department of Housing and Urban Development).
2. Respond promptly to any communications from these organizations in order to avoid misunderstandings or complications.
3. Regularly update the PHA about any changes in household members or income since this information plays a crucial role in determining an applicant’s position on the waiting list.

Following these guidelines will help keep you organized while increasing your chances of securing a place under the Section 8 housing program. Stay involved throughout the voucher application process by taking part in support groups or online communities focused on providing guidance and sharing personal experiences related to section 8 benefits. Also, remember that being patient is key when dealing with lengthy waitlists for section 8 assistance programs. If at any point during this time frame, you become eligible for preferences such as special circumstances like disability, make sure to notify authorities immediately because it could potentially move up higher on the waitlist.

Making the Most of Your Housing Voucher

Once a housing voucher has been obtained, the main objective is to make the most of its benefits. Recipients of a housing choice voucher must adhere to program requirements, pay rent promptly and keep their unit in good condition. They are also responsible for informing the PHA (Public Housing Authority) about any changes in their circumstances. To utilize a housing choice voucher, recipients need to first find a landlord who is willing to accept it as partial payment for rent and enter into an agreement known as the “housing assistance payments contract”. If at any point during their tenancy, they start earning enough income that allows them to afford market rate rent without financial aid from this program. They will no longer be eligible for Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program benefits. Every month thereafter, the PHA directly makes these assistance payments on behalf of tenants by paying landlords while renters cover whatever amount remains uncovered by the voucher themselves.

Selecting Suitable Housing

It is a crucial step for those with Section 8 vouchers to carefully select suitable housing. Before approving the voucher, PHAs thoroughly inspect and verify that the unit meets all Housing Quality Standards and has reasonable rent compared to similar units in the area. With this program, individuals have flexibility in choosing their desired location within the United States as long as they abide by its requirements. Tenants utilizing Section 8 should take into consideration factors such as size and type of housing when selecting a unit that best accommodates their family’s needs. It is essential to ensure access to necessary services like transportation, education facilities, and healthcare before finalizing a choice on which property suits them most appropriately. In some situations, holders may even be able to use their voucher towards purchasing instead of renting under specific conditions.

Tenant Responsibilities

As a recipient of a housing voucher, there are certain duties and expectations that tenants must meet. These include following the terms outlined in the lease agreement, ensuring timely payment of rent (including any amount not covered by the voucher), and allowing for regular inspections to maintain health and safety standards. It is ultimately up to the tenant to fulfill these responsibilities. Failure to do so can result in disqualification from the program if found engaging in illegal activities or fraudulent behavior, causing damage, or exhibiting threatening behavior towards others. Maintaining open communication with landlords about one’s status as a housing voucher holder is crucial. Previous landlords may be contacted for verification of reliability and adherence to rules. Overall, it should be understood that receiving a housing voucher comes with obligations on behalf of both tenants and landlords alike. By fulfilling their end of this partnership through compliance with regulations set forth by authorities responsible for administering such programs while communicating effectively, will help ensure continued eligibility under these beneficial arrangements.

Alternative Housing Assistance Programs

To the Housing Choice Voucher Program, there are other options available for those seeking housing assistance. Public housing offers affordable apartments specifically designed for low-income families, senior citizens and individuals with disabilities. Another alternative is Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) properties which offer reduced rental rates to eligible low-income tenants as an alternative to Section 8 vouchers. Certain states also have different programs that assist in locating affordable rentals, specialized housing accommodations and aid with utility costs. It’s important to find the most suitable assistance program tailored to your specific needs. LEARN MORE

How to Get A Free Tablet with Lifeline

If you’re on the hunt for a free tablet with Lifeline, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll show you the eligibility criteria and how to seamlessly get your hands on this valuable tech, no fluff attached.

Navigating Lifeline's Free Tablet Offer

The offer of a free tablet from the Lifeline program may seem daunting at first, but it is actually quite easy to understand. This government-sponsored initiative works alongside the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) to improve access to important services such as sending emails, completing job applications, engaging in remote learning, and staying connected with loved ones. Many organizations provide affordable or complimentary tablets for families with school-age children. For low-income households specifically, this opportunity can be incredibly beneficial as it grants access to vital resources that support education, employment searches, and personal development. As a result, this helps bridge the gap between lower income and higher income households. These valuable devices are made possible through various means including programs like the affordable connectivity program (ACP) or other avenues offering either discounted rates or totally free options. This enables those on limited budgets to have equal opportunities when seeking essential technology tools, such as these helpful government-provided tablets. These resources are especially crucial in keeping individuals connected digitally and advancing their capabilities despite financial limitations.

Understanding Lifeline and ACP

Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) and Lifeline program work together to provide increased support for eligible families. Through the ACP, which was established by Congress in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law with a budget of $14.2 billion, households can receive discounts on their monthly internet bills. With a discount of $30 per month through the ACP, families have access to improved internet connectivity that greatly benefits both children’s education and overall family life. Those who qualify for assistance from both programs are able to combine their benefits towards discounted phone and internet services, providing even more substantial support for household connectivity needs.

The Process of Claiming Your Free Tablet

Obtaining a free tablet through the Lifeline program is not as complicated as it may initially seem. The first step involves completing the application accurately and providing all necessary documentation to prove eligibility. Once you have met the criteria for eligibility, you can then choose from various phone or internet companies that offer this benefit. Simply sign up with your selected provider in order to start receiving your complimentary tablet - it’s really that straightforward.

Participating Companies in the Lifeline Program

Many of the leading telecommunications companies actively participate in the Lifeline program, which offers free tablets to eligible customers. These providers include Assurance Wireless, Safelink Wireless, Q Link Wireless, Access Wireless and TruConnect. Through this program, they aim to support underserved communities. Each company has its own regional variations and tailored offerings for their specific target population. To find participating providers in your area and compare deals that suit your needs best, you can use the Affordable Connectivity Program’s Companies Near Me Tool on their website. These companies partner with both federal and state government programs such as those providing public housing assistance to offer discounted or even free technology including tablets, internet access and phone connectivity to households who qualify based on low income levels.

Eligibility Criteria for Lifeline's Free Tablet Program

In order to be eligible for a free tablet through the Lifeline program, there are certain requirements that must be met. These criteria include income and participation in government assistance programs, as well as providing documentation of eligibility. The qualifications based on income take into consideration household size and state of residence, using the federal poverty level as a guideline. For instance, individuals can qualify if their income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines set by the government. This means they meet or fall under 1/3rd above what is considered to be living in poverty according to these guidelines issued by various departments within the national government dedicated towards alleviating those affected due having low earning capacity – specifically people who cannot afford basic necessities such shelter/fuel/housing food supply related – this range makes up quite some percentage approximated which qualifies you from getting services privileges provided-subsidy/provisions over including financial aid source-supports resources- treatments/vaccine/broadband-internet connectivity also support-programs/government agency’s database-submission/service-mobilization efforts (both public &

Income-Based Eligibility

The eligibility for the Lifeline program relies heavily on household income. The established thresholds for qualifying are as follows:

• For a single-person household living in the 48 contiguous states, D.C., and territories, their annual income must not exceed $19,683.
• In households with two people, the maximum allowable yearly earnings is $26,622.
• Income threshold increases with each additional member of the household.

To confirm eligibility based on income criteria applicants should submit supporting documents such as tax returns or paycheck stubs from employers. Government assistance program notices can also be used to verify qualification. It’s important to note that these set limits may differ depending on your state of residence where you plan to apply for government aid through this lifeline program.

Participation in Government Assistance Programs

Aside from meeting income-based requirements, individuals can also qualify for a free tablet through the Lifeline program if they are part of certain government assistance programs. These federal aid initiatives include SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, FPHA and veterans pension and survivors benefits. In order to be eligible, evidence must be provided confirming participation in these government-sponsored programs. This may consist of documentation showing your name as well as the program’s name and issuing agency along with an issue date within the past 12 months or a future expiration date.

Documentation Required to Prove Eligibility

To verify eligibility for a government tablet at no cost, certain documentation is necessary. First and foremost, you must validate your identity and confirm that you are still alive. This can be accomplished by providing official documents displaying recent activity within the past three months, such as a current utility bill or income statement. Those who wish to demonstrate their income eligibility will need to submit either a tax return or three consecutive pay stubs. Alternatively, they may also use statements of unemployment benefits or workers’ compensation as proof of their financial situation. If applying through government assistance programs, it is important to include a document with personal information (name), program name/title/agency name responsible for issuing the aid in question) along with an issuance date from within the last year (or future expiration). There are some special situations which require additional paperwork: individuals living in households where another adult already receives Lifeline benefits will have to fill out a Lifeline Household Worksheet. Minors under legal emancipation should provide court-issued documents confirming this status when submitting their application.

Step-by-Step Application Guide for a Free Government Tablet

After understanding the requirements and gathering necessary documents, you can proceed to apply for a free government tablet through the FCC’s Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). This program was launched in December 2021 with the aim of providing eligible households with access to a free tablet. You have three options for submitting your application - online, over the phone or through designated service providers by providing required information and documentation. Once your application is submitted, it will go through a review process that may take up to six weeks. Upon approval, your requested government tablet will be sent out to you. It is important to remain patient during this waiting period as reviews are diligently conducted within this timeframe.

Gathering Necessary Documentation

Before proceeding with your request for a free government tablet, it is important to gather some required documents. You will need valid proof of identity, which can include a driver’s license, passport, or any other form of government-issued ID that includes a photo. In the absence of a Social Security Number, an alternate type of identification such as military ID card, state ID card or tribal enrollment document along with U.S. driver’s license/passport/ITIN may be used. Verifying your income through documentation like tax returns and pay stubs is also necessary when applying for this program. If the address on your current ID does not match your place of residence, then additional evidence in the form of utility bill statements/mortgage statements/lease agreements may be required.

Filling Out the Online Application Form

To continue with the process, you must finish filling out the online application form. It is crucial to double-check that all parts of the form are accurately completed as any mistakes or missing information can cause delays in your application. The Lifeline program’s online application is user-friendly and typically takes around 10 minutes to complete. You have various options for submitting your documents and applying for Lifeline - through an online submission, mail-in, or via your phone or internet service provider. Whichever method you prefer.

Submitting and Tracking Your Application

Once your application has been completed, the next step is to submit it. To be eligible for a free tablet through Lifeline Assistance, you must apply and enroll by February 7th, 2024 and make a payment of $10-$50 towards the device’s cost. After submitting your application, you can keep track of its progress by staying in touch with the Lifeline Support Center or contacting your service provider. It is important to remain patient during this time as the review process may take up to six weeks.

Additional Resources for Low Income Individuals

Beyond the Lifeline program, other resources exist for individuals with low income and financial constraints. These include government and non-profit organizations that offer supplementary options by providing free tablets to eligible individuals. Individuals can also benefit from initiatives like Adaptive.org that require individuals to contribute 10 hours of community service in exchange for a free tablet. Organizations such as Interconnection provide low-income shoppers with refurbished tablets and PCs at accessible prices, along with a one-year warranty. Low-income individuals can also learn how to save 50% on an Amazon Prime membership and utilize their EBT card on Amazon for further financial management.

Non-Profit Organizations That Provide Free Tablets

A number of non-profit organizations are making valuable contributions by distributing free tablets to those who lack access. In the United States, groups such as Computers With Causes, the Charity Shop Center, and Computer Technology Assistance Corps (CTAC) offer refurbished and donated devices to support low-income individuals and families. Initiatives like EveryoneOn aim to provide technological resources and educational opportunities for households earning under $35,000 per year. Similarly, programs in Chattanooga such as HCS EdConnect and Tech Goes Home go beyond just providing free tablets - they also include complimentary internet services, devices, and training on technology skills. While income requirements may not be strict for many non-profits offering free tablets, the priority may be given to specific demographics, such as students, or targeted support for low-income applicants.

State-Specific Programs Offering Digital Devices

Several states have implemented their own initiatives to provide digital devices, such as free tablets, to individuals who meet specific eligibility requirements. New York, California, and Florida are among the states that have established programs aimed at providing eligible residents with access to these devices. There are state-specific organizations like The On It Foundation in Florida and Computers For Kids in Idaho, Washington, Oregon, and Utah which offer either free or affordable technological tools for educational institutions and students. These regional programs cater specifically to the needs of their respective populations by supplementing resources already provided through the Lifeline program.

Bridging the Digital Divide Beyond Lifeline

Efforts to bridge the digital divide involve more than simply providing free tablets. Collaborative initiatives like Chicago Connected, Miami Connected, and PHLConnectED in Philadelphia are examples of partnerships between school districts, internet service providers, philanthropic organizations, and community groups that aim to provide complimentary broadband access for underserved families. The availability of low-cost or no-cost tablets and broadband services is crucial for economically disadvantaged households as it allows them to engage in remote learning opportunities, apply for jobs online, and communicate securely. Programs such as the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) have a significant role in closing this gap by assisting over 22 million households with accessing essential online resources related to education,career advancement, and telehealth needs. Furthermore, the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program also contributes greatly towards this effort. Moreover, digital literacy resources are an integral part of programs designed specifically to address the digital divide.This ensures that families not only have access but also possess necessary skills needed to utilize the internet effectively. Incorporating these tools into efforts aimed at bridging the digital divide is crucial for empowering low income families and reducing inequality in accessing technology-based resources.

Maximizing the Use of Your New Tablet

After receiving a complimentary tablet, it can be highly advantageous to utilize all of its features. These devices are great for personalized learning as they allow students to work at their own pace and in the style that suits them best. With preloaded educational apps, tablets provide easy access to various subjects. Their lightweight design also makes them a suitable replacement for bulky textbooks and grants instant connectivity with countless online resources, facilitating learning beyond traditional classroom settings. Tablets encourage creativity and interactive education by enabling users to produce multimedia projects, engage in educational games, and participate in flipped classroom activities. By acknowledging student efforts digitally and monitoring their progress through these devices, teachers gain valuable insights into each individual’s learning journey. Furthermore, it is important for schools to conduct training sessions on how to fully utilize the features of a tablet, set clear guidelines for usage, and monitor internet activity, to ensure effective integration of these tools into the learning process. LEARN MORE

The Most Amazing Double Agents in History

In a world that is fueled by success, competition and the idea of survival of the fittest, the role of double agents is never redundant. Double agents are known for bringing to the table their skills as intelligence operative; spies who pose as working for another agency while actually serving the organization they claim to be spying on. Clever strategy, huh? Hero and traitor all in the same sentence. Though this job is dangerous, double agents have been in existence for centuries. Here are some double agents of the past who definitely stand out. 1. Kim Philby Kim Philby served as a British intelligence officer and a double agent for the Soviet Union. In 1934, he was recruited by Soviet intelligence. He worked for the United Kingdom’s Secret Intelligence Service, was the first secretary to the British Embassy in Washington and a chief British liaison with American Intelligence agencies. Philby was identified in 1963 as a member of the Cambridge Five, the group of spies who leaked British secrets to the Soviet Union during World War II in the early Cold War. Of the five, Philly is said to have had the greatest success to give the Soviets access to top-secret information. 2. Aldrich Ames Aldrich Hazen Ames is a former CIA officer who became a KGB double agent. On February 21, 1994, Ames was arrested by the FBI on espionage charges. Ames was a thirty-one-year CIA veteran who had been spying for the Russians from 1985. He was suspected of compromising many CIA assets. He gave the Russians access to sensitive information regarding CIA and FBI human sources and technological operations aimed at the Soviet Union, through which he made millions. Ames is currently serving a life sentence with no possibility of parole. 3. Oleg Penkovsky During the late 1950s and early 1960s, Oleg Penkovsky served as a colonel in the Soviet military intelligence (GRU). His actions significantly changed the course of history. Penkovsky revealed Soviet military secrets to the United States in the United Kingdom. Before and during the Cuban missile crisis of October 1962, the United States found great value in the information Penkovsky gave regarding the Soviet Union's very limited capability in long-range missiles. On October 22, 1962, Penkovsky was arrested by the Soviets and was tried for treason. 4. James Rivington James Rivington was an American journalist and the publisher of a “loyalist” newspaper known as Rivington’s Gazette. Later, he was the King’s Printer for New York. Rivington became a member of Culpher’s Spy Ring and worked closely with Robert Townsend a.k.a. Samuel Culpher Jr. He provided key information to General George Washington. However, after New York was evacuated and Rivington remained, he was no longer trusted by New Yorkers. By then people stopped supporting his business and it failed. 5. Robert Hansen Robert Philip Hansen is a former FBI double agent from the United States. He worked against the United States from 1979 to 2001 as a spy for Soviet and Russian intelligence services. After joining the FBI, Hansen offered his services to the Soviet Main Intelligence Directorate and subsequently began his work as a spy. He remained anonymous to the Russians. Numerous classified documents detailing American nuclear war plans, advancements in military weaponry and facets of the country's counter intelligence program were sold by Hansen to the KGB. The identities of the KGB spies working for the U.S were compromised. The Department of Justice referred to his spying as perhaps the worst intelligence disaster in U.S history. LEARN MORE