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2 local Gas Stations updated their prices today.

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<body><div><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=16U9uF_1H3Dl1JT00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=16U9uF_1H3Dl1JT00" width="1440" height="960" >At 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time today, oil was priced at $98.45 per barrel with Brent serving as the benchmark (we’ll explain different benchmarks later in this article). That’s a gain of $3.87 compared with yesterday morning and around $35 higher than the price one year ago.<figure class="wp-block-table optimized-table-widget"><table><tbody><tr><th></th><th>Oil price per barrel</th><th>% Change</th></tr><tr><td>Price of oil yesterday</td><td>$94.58</td><td>+4.09%</td></tr><tr><td>Price of oil 1 month ago</td><td>$108.50</td><td>-9.26%</td></tr><tr><td>Price of oil 1 year ago</td><td>$63.42</td><td>+55.23%</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><h2 class="wp-block-heading">Will oil prices go up?</h2>It’s impossible to forecast oil prices with detailed precision. Many different elements affect the market, but ultimately it boils down to supply and demand. When worries about economic recession, war, and other large-scale disruptions increase, oil’s path can shift fast.<h3 class="wp-block-heading">How oil prices translate to gas pump prices</h3>Gas prices at the pump don’t only track crude oil. They also include what it takes to refine and move that fuel, the taxes layered on top, and the extra markup your local station adds to stay in business.Since crude oil generally makes up a majority of the per-gallon cost, changes in its price have an outsized impact. When oil surges, gas prices typically rise in tandem. But when oil retreats, gas prices often lag on the way down, a trend sometimes described as “rockets and feathers.”<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The role of the U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve</h3>In case of emergency, the U.S. has a store of crude oil known as the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. Its primary purpose is energy security in case of disaster (think sanctions, severe storm damage, even war). But it can also go a long way toward softening crippling price hikes during supply shocks.It’s not a long-term answer and is more meant to provide temporary relief, assisting consumers and keeping critical parts of the economy running, like key industries, emergency services, public transportation, etc.<h3 class="wp-block-heading">How oil and natural gas prices are linked</h3>Both oil and natural gas are key sources of the energy we use every day. Because of this, a big change in oil prices can affect natural gas. For example, if oil prices increase, some industries may swap natural gas for some segments of their operations where possible, which increases demand for natural gas.<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Historical performance of oil</h2>To gauge oil’s performance, we often turn to two benchmarks:<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Brent crude oil, the main global oil benchmark.</li><li>West Texas Intermediate (WTI), the main benchmark of North America</li></ul>Between these two, Brent better represents global oil performance because it prices much of the world’s traded crude. And, it’s often the best way to track historical oil performance. In fact, even the U.S. Energy Information Administration now uses Brent as its primary reference in its Annual Energy Outlook.Looking at the Brent benchmark across several decades, oil has been anything but steady. It’s seen spikes due to factors such as wars and supply cuts, and it’s also seen crashes from global recessions and an oversupply (called a “glut”). For example:<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>The early 1970s brought the first big oil shock when the Middle East cut exports and imposed an embargo on the U.S. and others during the Yom Kippur War.</li><li>Prices dropped in the mid-1980s for reasons such as lower demand and more non-OPEC oil producers entering the industry.</li><li>Prices spiked again in 2008 with increased global demand, but it soon plummeted alongside the global financial crisis.</li><li>During the 2020 COVID lockdown, oil demand collapsed like never before—bringing prices below $20 per barrel.</li></ul>All to say, oil’s historical performance has been anything but smooth. Again, it’s hugely affected by wars, recessions, OPEC whims, evolving energy initiatives and policies, and much more.<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Energy coverage from Fortune</h2>Looking to stay up-to-date regarding the latest energy developments? Check out our recent coverage:<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><a href="https://fortune.com/2026/11/12/standard-chartered-ceo-geopolitical-fragmentation-profit/" rel="nofollow">Standard Chartered profit jumps 46% as CEO bets on a fragmenting global economy</a></li><li><a href="https://fortune.com/2026/11/10/anthropic-3-4-billion-deal-gas-data-centers-ai-ipo/" rel="nofollow">Anthropic inks $3.4 billion deal for gas-powered data centers</a></li><li><a href="https://fortune.com/2026/11/10/lumen-cfo-expects-1-5-billion-legacy-copper-pivot-ai-connectivity/" rel="nofollow">Lumen CFO expects up to $1.5 billion from legacy copper amid pivot to AI connectivity</a></li></ul><h2 class="wp-block-heading">Frequently asked questions</h2>How is the current price of oil per barrel actually determined? The current price of oil per barrel depends largely on supply and demand, including news about potential future supply and demand (geopolitics, decisions made by OPEC+, etc.). In the U.S., prices also move based on how friendly an administration is to drilling, as it can affect future supply. For example, 2025 saw the Trump administration move to reopen more than 1.5 million acres in the Coastal Plain of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge for oil and gas leasing, reversing the Biden administration’s policy of limiting oil drilling in the Arctic.How often does the price of oil change during the day? The price of oil updates constantly when the “futures” markets are open. A futures market is effectively an auction where people agree to buy or sell oil in the future. As long as people and companies are trading contracts, the oil price is changing.How does U.S. shale oil production affect the current price of oil? In short, shale is rock that contains oil and natural gas. Think of shale as energy yet to be tapped. The more shale the U.S. accesses, the more energy we’ll have—and the more easily oil prices can keep from spiking as much thanks to a greater supply.How does the current price of oil impact inflation and the broader economy? When oil is expensive, it tends to make everyday items cost more. This can be related to energy (your heating, gas utilities, etc.), but it’s also due to the logistics involved with making those items accessible to you. Shipping, for example, can affect the price of things at the grocery store, as it’s more expensive to get those products from warehouses and farms onto the shelf.This story was originally featured on <a href="https://fortune.com/article/price-of-oil-11-13-2026/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Fortune.com</a></div></body>

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When oil prices change, it affects your energy costs—and even the price of everyday items. Here’s why.

Current price of oil as of November 13, 2026

<body><div><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=3TuTe3_1H5jlXzI00" style="display:none" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=3TuTe3_1H5jlXzI00" width="1920" height="1280" >Seeing something moving inside a trash bag must be a disturbing experience. But the result of said discovery isn’t always something out of a horror movie. This is what a gas station employee in New South Wales, Australia, learned when he noticed something inside a tied-up black plastic garbage bag outside of his station last week. According to <a href="https://www.thedodo.com/daily-dodo/gas-station-employee-spots-moving-trash-bag-and-finds-a-beautiful-bird-inside" rel="nofollow">The Dodo</a>, the employee opened up the bag right away and found a Muscovy, which is a species of duck, wriggling around. The employee acted fast, calling nearby <a href="https://tvwc.org.au/" rel="nofollow">Tweed Valley Wildlife Carers</a> for help. The carers arrived on scene shortly afterwards and transported the duck — which did not have any broken bones but was severely dehydrated, emaciated, malnourished, and had several damaged feathers — to The Owl &amp; The PussyCat Farm Animal Sanctuary. <figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=2xm3I0_1H5jlXzI00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=2xm3I0_1H5jlXzI00" width="1920" height="1280" ><figcaption>A Muscovy duck walking on grass.<a href="https://www.gettyimages.com/detail/2273755339" rel="nofollow">Orlando Ramirez / Getty Images</a></figcaption></figure>Security camera footage later showed that a man simply rode up to the gas station and tossed the trash bag into the garbage, then drove away.The duck was then named Sweetpea and received all the care it needed to be nursed back to health. Workers at The Owl &amp; The PussyCat Farm Animal Sanctuary even noted that the duck is beginning to show a feisty side, now that it is feeling better.None of this would have been possible if that gas station employee decided he didn’t want to know what was moving around inside that trash bag. And Sweetpea the duck will forever be in his debt for that.<a href="https://parade.com/news/illinois-fraternity-gives-away-200-free-turkeys-in-less-than-an-hour" rel="nofollow">Related: Illinois Fraternity Gives Away 200 Free Turkeys in Less Than an Hour</a></div></body>

Block Source: Parade

An Australian gas station employee received a big surprise when taking out the trash.

Gas Station Worker Spots Moving Trash Bag, Makes Disturbing Discovery

<body><div><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=2VsA4c_1H5XMUTO00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=2VsA4c_1H5XMUTO00" width="780" height="438" ><figcaption>Engine oil being poured into an engine Gece33/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>Oil is the lifeblood of any internal combustion engine. It needs to be <a href="https://www.carscoops.com/2023/06/how-often-do-you-change-your-cars-oil-and-do-you-stick-to-the-manufacturers-schedule/" rel="nofollow">changed on a regular schedule</a>, but oftentimes, drivers only consider the miles between oil changes. Does this mean if you only drive your car 1,000 miles per year and oil changes are recommended every 5,000 miles, you can use the same oil for five years? Not exactly. Oil has a limited lifespan and should generally be changed every six to 12 months, even if you're not driving your car.You see, even if your car spends most of its time parked in a garage, the engine oil can degrade. Over time, it may begin to oxidize, and small amounts of moisture and dust could enter the oil system, slowly degrading it. So even that <a href="https://www.carscoops.com/2026/09/holden-commodore-ss-walkinshaw/" rel="nofollow">1988 HSV Commodore SS Walkinshaw stored in a garage since new</a> still needs its oil changed before driving it, even though the oil only has 12 miles on it.How you drive your vehicle may also impact how the oil behaves over time. Even where and how you store your car can have an effect on the oil's life.&nbsp;For example, cars stored outside have to deal with fluctuating temperatures,&nbsp;which can accelerate the degradation compared to a car that's stored inside. If those rare drives you do take are short, it's possible the oil hasn't heated up enough to eliminate any moisture that may have found its way in.Read more: <a href="https://www.carscoops.com/2026/08/new-car-ownership-costs/?zsource=newsbreak" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">America's Cheapest New Car To Run Is The One Almost No One Wants</a><h2>Engines don't like old oil</h2>It's not just reduced lubrication properties that can impact an oil's effectiveness if it's left to sit for too long. As moisture builds up in the oil when a car is parked for an extended period, it can trigger some corrosion in vital engine components. A little corrosion&nbsp;from driving on salty roads on the underside of your car probably isn't a big deal. However, corrosion inside the engine can be, and unless you're an expert engine builder, you probably won't be able to open up your engine to clean it. Fuel efficiency is also likely to be adversely affected by aging oil.To prevent your old oil from looking like it <a href="https://www.carscoops.com/2022/12/this-is-what-happens-when-you-havent-changed-your-engine-oil-for-60k-miles/" rel="nofollow">hasn't been changed for 37,000 miles</a>,&nbsp;consider the time between oil changes, not just the mileage. Changing engine oil every six to 12 months is a good idea, including the weekender you drive just a couple of times per month. Synthetic oil is more resilient than conventional oil&nbsp;and will last longer, but even so, regular changes are recommended.There are a few easy ways to tell whether your vehicle is in dire need of an oil change. Check the color of the oil on the dipstick. If it has turned dark and no longer looks like the liquid honey it did when it was new, changing the oil is a smart move. Any signs of contamination, debris, or sludge are also a good indication that it's time to head to your local parts store to buy some fresh oil.CarScoops Newsletter?Read the <a href="https://www.carscoops.com/2314924/how-long-engine-oil-bad-car-not-driven/?zsource=newsbreak" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">original article on CarScoops</a>.</div></body>

Block Source: CarScoops

Your car may be sitting, but the oil still degrades over time, even when you're not racking up the miles. Regular oil changes are still important.

How Long Does It Take For Engine Oil To Go Bad When Your Car Isn't Driven?

<body><div><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=3vR6Ps_1H41zfZi00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=3vR6Ps_1H41zfZi00" width="1600" height="900" >Buick is <a href="https://www.moneydigest.com/1925457/americas-most-reliable-car-brands-buick-9016-dollar-average-maintenance-cost-first-10-years/" rel="nofollow">one of America's most reliable car brands</a>, and has achieved&nbsp;popularity&nbsp;by offering drivers premium feel and comfort with practical and intuitive features in models that don't break the bank. In 2026, <a href="https://www.jdpower.com/business/press-releases/2026-us-vehicle-dependability-study-vds" rel="nofollow">J.D. Power</a> ranked Buick highest among mass-market car brands in its&nbsp;U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS), meaning Buick owners reported experiencing fewer problems with their vehicles than those from other big-name manufacturers.&nbsp;And while some&nbsp;Buick models might be out of reach for retirees on a fixed budget, the Buick Envista offers an accessible balance of quality and affordability. The&nbsp;2026 Buick Envista's&nbsp;MSRP ranges from $26,495 to $31,295. This means that even a higher-end Envista starts at a lower price than the average crossover SUV, which <a href="https://www.iseecars.com/affordable/affordable-crossover-suvs" rel="nofollow">iSeeCars</a> reports sits around&nbsp;$32,981 in 2026. However, if&nbsp;you're <a href="https://www.moneydigest.com/1439598/think-twice-buying-new-car/" rel="nofollow">thinking twice about buying a new car</a>, you could also reduce your purchase price by considering&nbsp;used models from 2024 or 2025, which&nbsp;offer largely similar&nbsp;design elements and features. As of October 2026, <a href="https://www.kbb.com/buick/envista/2025/preferred/?category=suv&amp;intent=buy-new&amp;vehicleid=471022" rel="nofollow">Kelley Blue Book</a> estimates a fair purchase price for a 2025 Buick Envista Preferred is around $22,700.In addition to its budget-friendliness, retirees can trust that the Buick Envista will provide&nbsp;them&nbsp;a smooth and safe ride.&nbsp;The Envista's height and wide doorways make it easy for older adults to enter the car while protecting their hips and legs. Its interior&nbsp;technology is helpful without being overwhelming, featuring a large touchscreen display for easy viewing and intuitive safety assistance. Many of the&nbsp;Envista's features — and its fuel efficiency, in particular — also help reduce its ownership costs.Read more: <a href="https://www.moneydigest.com/2215058/used-suv-perfect-retirees-under-15-thousand/?zsource=newsbreak" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">12 Used SUVs Under $15,000 Perfect For Retirees</a><h2>The Buick Envista racks up relatively low ownership costs</h2>The <a href="https://fred.stlouisfed.org/release/tables?rid=479&amp;eid=1198958" rel="nofollow">Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis</a> reports that transportation expenses like car payments — such as maintenance, insurance, and gas —&nbsp;cost retirees $9,538 per year on average. WIth the average retiree's annual budget sitting around $61,432, transportation costs make up approximately 15.5% of retirees' spending each year. Any vehicles that could reduce these expenditures could be a great option for senior drivers. For instance,&nbsp;the Buick Envista is a great vehicle for drivers who want to <a href="https://www.moneydigest.com/1491697/tricks-save-money-gas/" rel="nofollow">save money when buying gas</a>. <a href="https://gasprices.aaa.com/" rel="nofollow">AAA</a> states that&nbsp;the average national gas price was $4.34 per gallon as of mid-October 2026, up quite a bit from $3.08 a year prior.&nbsp;The Environmental Protection Agency estimates it to get&nbsp;28 miles per gallon (MPG)&nbsp;in cities, 32 MPG on highways, and&nbsp;30 MPG combined. For comparison, ISeeCars reports the average crossover SUV gets 26 MPG combined.&nbsp;Assuming 12,500 miles of annual driving, this difference&nbsp;could save Envista drivers about&nbsp;$278 per year.A Buick Envista's other ownership costs can also greatly inform what you wind up spending on it. For instance, <a href="https://caredge.com/ranks/maintenance" rel="nofollow">CarEdge</a> ranks the Buick Envista at No. 109 out of 186 on its list of cars with the lowest five-year maintenance costs, averaging about $2,720. While that's not particularly exceptional, those costs could be balanced out by the fact that <a href="https://caredge.com/ranks/maintenance" rel="nofollow">CarEdge</a> also lists the Envista as one of the cheapest cars to insure: Ranked No.&nbsp;15 out of 186,&nbsp;Envista drivers can expect to spend around $2,013 per year on insurance.Found this helpful? <a href="https://subscribe.moneydigest.com/newsletter-syndicated?utm_source=newsbreak&amp;utm_medium=moneydigest-NL-feed" rel="nofollow">Subscribe to the Money Digest newsletter</a> and unlock your financial potential. And <a href="https://www.google.com/preferences/source?q=moneydigest.com" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">add Money Digest to your preferred sources</a> for smart money insights!Read the <a href="https://www.moneydigest.com/2296957/buick-envista-best-cars-retirees-affordable-subcompact-suv-great-gas-mileage/?zsource=newsbreak" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">original article on Money Digest</a>.</div></body>

Block Source: Money Digest

Seniors don't need to pay top dollar for an efficient vehicle. This SUV has an attractive price tag and a design that's especially suitable for older drivers.

One Of Buick's Best Cars For Retirees Is An Affordable SUV With Great Gas Mileage

<body><div><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=3EgETL_1H4tDdTF00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=3EgETL_1H4tDdTF00" width="780" height="438" ><figcaption>Chevron gas station from outside Juanmonino/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>Chevron is one of the largest gas station chains in America, offering drivers thousands of opportunities to fill up at one of its stations from coast to coast. But, as is often the case with such large corporations, the true scope of Chevron's reach goes beyond simply the Chevron name.As Chevron's number of locations has continued to grow, behind the scenes, the company has spent just as much time and energy (not to mention money) on acquisitions, partnerships, and international ventures. Today, Chevron's portfolio includes other names: Texaco and Caltex.From the late 1800s through to the modern day, these three gas station brands now stand as the pillars of the Chevron Corporation. But their shared corporate history does not necessarily mean they all operate under precisely the same ownership structure or business arrangement in every country. Let's take a look at each one and its specific offerings below.Read more: <a href="https://www.slashgear.com/2281110/all-weather-tires-drawbacks/?zsource=newsbreak" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">5 Drawbacks Of Using All-Weather Tires</a><h2>Chevron</h2><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=06p4fI_1H4tDdTF00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=06p4fI_1H4tDdTF00" width="780" height="438" ><figcaption>Exterior of Chevron gas station Georgeclerk/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>Chevron is obviously the crown jewel of the Chevron Corporation, and not just because it's the namesake. Originally called Pacific Coast Oil Co., the brand's history dates all the way back to 1879. Back then, California's burgeoning petroleum industry was bringing in prospectors from all over the country hoping to strike it rich and discover oil.At first, the company focused on developing its regional operations there in California. From there, they began constructing refining facilities and building transportation infrastructure to physically move petroleum from extraction sites to customers. As the company expanded and grew, it eventually became Standard Oil Co. (A name most recognize as one of the biggest in modern history.) When antitrust proceedings hit, the company we now know as Chevron split off and focused on expanding the service station network. Merging with Gulf Oil in the 1980s only made them an even bigger name in the gas station biz. That's the industry Chevron is still synonymous with today.<h2>Texaco</h2><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=1icH0j_1H4tDdTF00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=1icH0j_1H4tDdTF00" width="780" height="438" ><figcaption>Texaco location in Utah Lordrunar/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>While the company we now know as Chevron was in its early twenties, Texaco was just getting started. Founded in Beaumont, Texas in 1902, The Texas Company was soon shortened to Texaco and adopted its instantly recognizable five-point star emblem with a red letter T in the middle. That branding remains central to Texaco, <a href="https://www.slashgear.com/2180207/what-happened-to-texaco-gas-stations/" rel="nofollow">which still exists today</a> with locations throughout the American South/Southwest and abroad.Like Chevron, Texaco built its petroleum business through the help of several key acquisitions. To name a few: Indian Refining Company in 1931, Fire Chief gasoline in 1932, and Sky Chief in 1938. And though Chevron wouldn't take control of Texaco until 2001, the two have actually been working together in some capacity or another since 1936. That's when Standard Oil Co. of California and The Texas Company first established their joint venture that still exists today, the California Texas Oil Company (also known as Caltex).<h2>Caltex</h2>When Standard Oil Co. of California and The Texas Company formed Caltex in 1936, the two simply hoped to combine their different strengths in petroleum production and international distribution into one. Standard Oil of California brought its experience with Middle Eastern production to the table, while Texaco brought its operations across Africa and Asia.Despite the Great Depression toppling businesses in America and around the world, Caltex managed to weather the storm. (This is an oil company, after all, not some humble mom-and-pop operation.) By 1968, the company had adopted the name Caltex Petroleum Corp. complete with a new star logo reminiscent of Texaco's. As the mid-20th century gave way to the 21st, Caltex slowly left the American market for places abroad. Its stations are now exclusively located in the Asia-Pacific region, the Middle East, and parts of Southern Africa. In addition to its gas stations, the company's product portfolio also includes Havoline and Delo lubricants. (The former being one of <a href="https://www.slashgear.com/1307998/best-motor-oil-brands-ranked/" rel="nofollow">the best motor oil brands</a> around.)Want the latest in tech and auto trends? <a href="https://subscribe.slashgear.com/newsletter-syndicated?utm_source=newsbreak&amp;utm_medium=slashgear-NL-feed" rel="nofollow">Subscribe to our free newsletter</a> for the latest headlines, expert guides, and how-to tips, one email at a time. You can also <a href="https://www.google.com/preferences/source?q=slashgear.com" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">add us as a preferred search source</a> on Google.Read the <a href="https://www.slashgear.com/2312148/gas-station-brands-owned-by-chevron/?zsource=newsbreak" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">original article on SlashGear</a>.</div></body>

Block Source: SlashGear

While Chevron pretty obviously owns any gas stations under its own brand, those aren't the only companies in its fueling station portfolio.

3 Gas Station Brands Owned By The Chevron Corporation

<body><div><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=2mVvpa_1H6Zrwsi00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=2mVvpa_1H6Zrwsi00" width="1024" height="576" >Rep. Mike Levin is demanding congressional testimony, government records and a closer examination of the Trump administration’s lucrative Venezuela oil contracts after a Reuters investigation raised questions about alleged personal connections between Vice President JD Vance, a prominent Vitol oil trader and the administration’s decision to award the company a major role in marketing Venezuelan crude. In a November 12, 2026, post on X, the California Democrat called for Energy Secretary Chris Wright, Vitol and trader John Addison to testify under oath, arguing that Congress must determine whether political relationships influenced the awarding of the contracts or whether anyone received advance notice of the U.S. military operation that captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.Levin’s post linked and specifically identified the investigation as a “new Reuters report,” directing readers to the November 11 article titled “How a Vitol trader’s ties to JD Vance helped land a prized Venezuela oil contract.” Reuters <a href="https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/exclusive-how-vitol-traders-ties-jd-vance-helped-land-prized-venezuela-oil-2026-11-11" rel="nofollow">reported</a> that Addison, a senior gasoline trader at Vitol and an early financial backer of Vance’s political career, allegedly met with the vice president at Montana’s Yellowstone Club on December 27, 2025, approximately one week before the U.S. operation in Venezuela. According to a person familiar with the matter, Vance allegedly asked how quickly Venezuelan crude could be sold if the United States gained control of the country’s oil supplies.The alleged December meeting has been disputed by both Addison and Vance’s office. Reuters reported that Addison denied the meeting occurred, while flight records reviewed by the news organization showed Addison’s private Embraer aircraft and Vance’s vice-presidential plane parked together at Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport that day. The reported conversation, as described by the source, allegedly centered on the potential sale of Venezuelan oil under hypothetical U.S. control. The account has not been independently established as fact, and the denials remain central to the dispute.The investigation also detailed a January 5, 2026, phone call between Wright and Addison, two days after the U.S. operation that removed Maduro from power. Addison told Reuters that Wright called him at his Houston office and offered Vitol the opportunity to market Venezuela’s crude to international buyers. The Department of Energy confirmed that Wright called Addison to discuss Venezuela. Vitol and rival Trafigura subsequently received special licenses to sell Venezuelan oil, with both companies reportedly generating hundreds of millions of dollars from the transactions.Reuters further reported that Addison had contributed $300,000 in 2022 to the Protect Ohio Values PAC, which supported Vance’s successful Senate campaign, and that Addison and his wife contributed approximately $7 million to political committees supporting Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign. The investigation also reported that Vance had previously described Addison as a trustworthy person in the energy industry to Wright. The Department of Energy, however, said Vance and Wright never discussed the sale of Venezuelan oil and defended Vitol’s selection by citing its position as the world’s largest energy and commodity trader.Levin’s November 12 <a href="https://x.com/MikeLevin/status/2120869190991032744?s=20" rel="nofollow">post</a> directly challenged the circumstances surrounding the contract, arguing that the relationships and timing warranted congressional scrutiny. He wrote:<blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow">This new Reuters report is stunning.A week before the U.S. captured Venezuela’s leader, JD Vance reportedly met at a private Montana ski club with John Addison, an oil trader who had given $300,000 to help elect Vance to the Senate in 2022. Vance allegedly asked how fast Venezuela’s oil could be sold if America took control of it.Both men deny the meeting.Flight records show their planes parked together that day.Two days after the Venezuela operation, Energy Secretary Chris Wright called Addison and offered his company, Vitol, the job of selling Venezuela’s oil. There was no public bidding. Vitol and one rival have since made hundreds of millions of dollars.Addison and his wife also gave $7 million to help elect Trump, and he now chairs a board advising Secretary Wright.Congress has a duty to act.We should bring Secretary Wright, Vitol, and Addison in to testify under oath. We should demand the phone records, emails, and flight logs. We should find out whether anyone got a heads-up about a military operation. And we should require open, competitive bidding before any company profits from our foreign policy.If nothing was wrong, let’s see the records.</blockquote>The congressman’s demand for testimony follows his earlier public opposition to the Trump administration’s military operation in Venezuela. On January 3, 2026, Levin released an official <a href="https://levin.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mike-levins-statement-on-us-military-operations-in-venezuela" rel="nofollow">statement</a> acknowledging Maduro’s authoritarian rule and the damage inflicted on Venezuela’s democratic institutions, while arguing that Maduro’s removal did not eliminate the administration’s constitutional obligations. Levin said the president had failed to seek congressional authorization for the operation and warned that the United States risked becoming involved in an unauthorized conflict.In the same January 3 statement, Levin specifically challenged the administration’s assertion that the United States was now “running” Venezuela. He argued that administering or governing a foreign country constituted an act of war and occupation rather than a narrowly defined law-enforcement action. Levin maintained that the president lacked unilateral authority to assume control over another country and that sustained military operations required congressional authorization. His position established a distinction between his opposition to Maduro’s government and his objection to the legal basis for the U.S. intervention.Levin also questioned the administration’s characterization of the operation as a counternarcotics or law-enforcement effort. His January statement argued that the administration had not articulated a sufficient legal justification for the military action and that Congress had been sidelined from a consequential decision involving war and peace. He specifically referenced briefings involving senior administration officials Marco Rubio and Pete Hegseth, saying lawmakers had not been asked to authorize the use of force or informed of plans for regime change.The congressman’s concerns extended directly to the financial consequences of the operation and the administration’s plans for Venezuela’s oil sector. On January 7, Levin <a href="https://levin.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mike-levin-to-introduce-new-bill-to-prevent-taxpayer-dollars-from-being-used-by-oil-companies-in-venezuela" rel="nofollow">announced plans</a> for legislation aimed at preventing American taxpayer dollars from being used to rebuild Venezuela’s oil infrastructure for the benefit of major oil companies. His office argued that companies could lack sufficient commercial incentives to invest in Venezuela without public subsidies and that increased Venezuelan production was unlikely to substantially reduce U.S. gasoline prices.On January 13, Levin and Sen. Jeff Merkley <a href="https://levin.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-levin-and-sen-merkley-introduce-new-bill-to-prevent-taxpayer-dollars-from-reimbursing-oil-companies-in-venezuela" rel="nofollow">introduced</a> the Protecting Taxpayers from Risky Investments in Venezuela Act. The proposed legislation sought to prevent federal taxpayer funds from being used to rebuild Venezuela’s oil infrastructure without congressional approval. The legislative initiative demonstrates that Levin’s scrutiny of Venezuela’s oil arrangements predates the November Reuters investigation and has included efforts to restrict the use of public funds in the administration’s post-operation energy plans.Levin’s broader position on executive military authority has also been reflected in his response to the administration’s military campaign against Iran. On February 28, 2026, he <a href="https://levin.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mike-levins-statement-on-the-strikes-on-iran" rel="nofollow">argued</a> that sustained combat operations required congressional authorization and called for a prompt War Powers vote. Levin said he would oppose a sustained war in Iran, emphasizing that Congress must determine whether the country enters an extended conflict. His statements reflect a recurring position on presidential war powers rather than an objection confined exclusively to Venezuela.The Reuters investigation also described the administration’s decision to award the oil-marketing licenses without a public competitive bidding process. The administration defended the approach as necessary to move quickly following Maduro’s capture and to support Venezuela’s economic stabilization. Levin’s November 12 demand for open, competitive bidding directly challenges that justification, arguing that public scrutiny is necessary when companies stand to benefit financially from U.S. foreign policy. His proposed investigation would examine not only the reported Vance-Addison meeting but also the timing of Wright’s call, the awarding of licenses, potential advance knowledge of military operations and the administration’s documentation of the contracts.The questions raised by Levin’s post remain unresolved in the public record presented by the Reuters investigation. The reported meeting between Vance and Addison is denied by both men, the Department of Energy disputes that Vance and Wright discussed Venezuelan oil sales, and Reuters reported that Vitol and Trafigura said they had no advance knowledge of U.S. military operations. Levin’s demand for testimony and records seeks to establish whether the administration’s decisions were made through appropriate procedures or whether political connections played a role. His Venezuela record has consistently combined acknowledgment of Maduro’s authoritarianism with objections to unilateral military intervention, taxpayer exposure and the administration’s control over the country’s oil revenues.</div></body>

Block Source: Combat Rated

Rep. Mike Levin is demanding congressional testimony, government records and a closer examination of the Trump administration’s lucrative Venezuela oil contracts after a Reuters investigation raised questions about alleged personal connections between Vice President JD Vance, a prominent Vitol oil trader and the administration’s decision to award the company a major role in marketing Venezuelan […]

Rep. Levin Says “Congress Has a Duty to Act” After Report Raises Questions About JD Vance’s Alleged Meeting With Oil Trader Before Venezuela Operation — Demands Officials Testify “Under Oath”

<body><div><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=1NowsA_1H5d5NZh00" style="display:none" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=1NowsA_1H5d5NZh00" width="1600" height="899" >Want a sure-fire way to start an argument at a car meet that's even better than trash-talking a Ford Mustang to the owner's face while wearing a bowtie T-shirt? Bring up the topic of oil change intervals.There'll be one guy who claims he hasn't dropped his lube for 20,000 miles because that's what the automaker recommends, and says his motor hasn't exploded yet. Another will swear that you'll <a href="https://www.carscoops.com/2021/05/trucks-engine-explodes-during-dyno-run-sends-pistons-flying/" rel="nofollow">send pistons flying</a> if you haven't changed the oil every 5,000 miles. But 5,000 miles might only be a few months of driving for some folks. Do you really need to swap it out that often?The reality is one of those annoying "it depends" answers, so it's no wonder there's confusion around the issue. Years back, changing oil every three months or 3,000 miles&nbsp;was totally normal, just a regular part of a car upkeep schedule. But oil and engine technology were less sophisticated in the middle of the last century. The additives in multigrade oils degrade over time, meaning they provide less protection to engines as the oil gets older, and it needs to be changed more often. If you're driving an older car today on conventional multigrade oil, you're probably still going to want to change it every 5,000 miles, not every 10,000 miles.But modern, <a href="https://www.carscoops.com/2283619/why-lighter-weight-engine-oil-common/" rel="nofollow">thin, expensive synthetic oils</a> used on newer cars since the 1980s and 1990s last far longer without breaking down. That's the stuff automakers fill their cars' sumps with when they say you can drive 20,000 miles before laying a ratchet on the drain plug. Semi-synthetic oils are hardier than old multigrade oils and cost less than fully synthetic fluid, but still break down faster and need to be changed every 6,000 miles, <a href="https://www.aaa.com/autorepair/articles/how-often-should-you-change-your-oil" rel="nofollow">AAA says</a>.Read more: <a href="https://www.carscoops.com/2026/06/manual-transmission-brain-study/?zsource=newsbreak" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Neuroscientist Finds Driving A Manual Lights Up A Brain Region Automatics Let Sleep</a><h2>Two identical cars, two different intervals</h2><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=4XCCrA_1H5d5NZh00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=4XCCrA_1H5d5NZh00" width="780" height="438" ><figcaption>Man pouring oil into an engine Mykola Pokhodzhay/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>Just because you've splashed out the cash to splash synthetic oil around your bearings doesn't mean you can safely do 20,000 miles between oil changes. Imagine two identical cars, one sent out for a lifetime of long, gentle, cross-country freeway drives, and the other tasked with spending its days running three-mile errands and barely getting warm. They might have the same engines and the same recommended service intervals, but one car's oil works much harder.According to&nbsp;Pennzoil lubricant specialist Sean Nguyen on the <a href="https://bobistheoilguy.com/forums/threads/pennzoil-drain-intervals-q-a-answers.345626/" rel="nofollow">Bob is the Oil Guy</a> website, those short, urban journeys can be particularly rough on modern direct-injection engines because fuel and moisture can accumulate in the oil. An engine that's allowed to warm up properly can evaporate those contaminants, Nguyen says, but repeated short journeys can prevent that from happening. The result is acid formation, corrosion, and component wear.But what if you only live a few miles from work? Nguyen recommends taking your car for a 30-minute run every week to help evaporate accumulated fuel and moisture. He also advises sticking with the automaker's official interval, as listed in the handbook. Such driving may fall under the manufacturer's definition of "severe service," which leads to a more frequent oil change interval recommendation.In the case of a Stellantis SRT vehicle like a <a href="https://www.carscoops.com/2018/06/2019-dodge-challenger-srt-hellcat-redeye-debuts-797-hp-w-video/" rel="nofollow">Dodge Challenger Hellcat</a>, that means dropping the oil every six months or 6,000 miles. Don't go thinking you only need a lube job once a year if you're only doing 3,000 miles, either. Oil also degrades in cars parked for extended periods.The best advice seems to be to treat the automaker's official intervals as the maximum time and distance you can go between oil changes. If your car has a hard life, or it makes you feel less stressed to change it sooner, do it.&nbsp;An engine rebuild will cost far more.CarScoops Newsletter?Read the <a href="https://www.carscoops.com/2314927/should-you-change-oil-every-5000-miles/?zsource=newsbreak" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">original article on CarScoops</a>.</div></body>

Some motor oils let you go farther between oil changes than others. How and where you drive your vehicle can have a significant effect as well.

Do You Really Need To Change Your Oil Every 5,000 Miles?

<body><div><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=0JgQTQ_1H5HnUeZ00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=0JgQTQ_1H5HnUeZ00" width="780" height="438" ><figcaption>Close-up of someone's feet wearing gray socks warming up next to a gas fireplace Nickylloyd/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>Power outages are never convenient, but they can be particularly troublesome during the colder months. Not only do you lose access to lights and everyday electrical appliances, but your home's heating system may stop working, too. That's where a gas fireplace can help. It runs on natural gas or propane and can potentially be used as a heating alternative until the power returns. The problem? Not every gas fireplace can start without electricity, so it's important to know which type of ignition system yours has before deciding whether it's safe to use during a power outage.If, for instance, you have a gas fireplace with an older standing pilot&nbsp;(millivolt) system, you're in luck. These systems can be used during an outage, as they do not need electricity to ignite the fire. Many newer gas fireplaces, however, are a bit different. They have an intermittent pilot ignition (IPI) system that relies on an electric spark. Without power, the fireplace won't ignite. Don't worry just yet, though! Some IPI systems also have a battery-powered backup module. If, however, your fireplace doesn't have any of these, you will have to look into some other <a href="https://www.housedigest.com/850911/what-are-the-different-options-to-heat-your-home/" rel="nofollow">options to heat your home</a> while the power's out.It is also worth noting that some gas fireplaces rely on power-venting systems and use an electric fan to move combustion gases outdoors. So, while you might be able to start your gas fireplace during a power outage, its electric parts like the blower fan and power venting won't run, and the fireplace may put out less heat. If you don't have a fireplace yet, these are just a few of the <a href="https://www.housedigest.com/1261151/things-keep-mind-before-adding-fireplace-home/" rel="nofollow">things to keep in mind before adding one to your home</a>.Read more: <a href="https://www.housedigest.com/1788673/common-mistakes-avoid-propane-tank/?zsource=newsbreak" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Common Mistakes You Should Be Avoiding With Propane Tanks At Home</a><h2>Using your gas fireplace during a power outage</h2><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=020YPT_1H5HnUeZ00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=020YPT_1H5HnUeZ00" width="780" height="438" ><figcaption>A serviceman fixing a gas fireplace as a woman looks on Peter Carruthers/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>If your gas fireplace does have a battery backup, the first thing you must do is find out what type of batteries it uses and keep a spare set readily available so you can install them and get your fireplace running if a power outage catches you off guard. You can usually find this information in your owner's manual. If&nbsp;you don't have the manual, locate the battery compartment instead. It might be located underneath the fireplace, behind the control panel, or inside a separate wall-mounted control box.&nbsp;Once you've found it, check which type of batteries it takes.Just keep in mind that this battery backup is only meant for emergencies, and you should not leave batteries installed in it all the time. They'll drain over time, and heat from the fireplace can even cause them to leak, leaving you without a backup the next time you need one. Also, do not mix old and new batteries. This can reduce performance,&nbsp;which is the last thing you want when an emergency arises.It's also important to take some safety precautions when using your fireplace during an outage. If your fireplace is power-vented, don't use it during an outage unless the owner's manual says it's safe to run without the fan. Direct-vent fireplaces and inserts installed in an existing chimney, on the other hand, can vent safely without one. Similarly, never leave the gas fireplace running unattended, and keep curtains, blankets, furniture, or anything else that can catch fire away from it. Lastly, <a href="https://www.housedigest.com/2059123/how-often-get-gas-fireplace-serviced/" rel="nofollow">get your gas fireplace serviced</a> at least&nbsp;once a year so it's ready to go in case&nbsp;there is a power outage.Enjoyed this article? Get expert home tips, DIY guides, and design inspiration by signing up to the <a href="https://subscribe.housedigest.com/newsletter-syndicated?utm_source=newsbreak&amp;utm_medium=housedigest-NL-feed" rel="nofollow">House Digest newsletter</a> and <a href="https://www.google.com/preferences/source?q=housedigest.com" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">adding us as a preferred search source</a>!Read the <a href="https://www.housedigest.com/2314260/can-you-use-gas-fireplace-power-outage/?zsource=newsbreak" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">original article on House Digest</a>.</div></body>

Block Source: House Digest

If your power goes out and you still need light and heat in your home, could using a gas fireplace be the solution? Here's what you need to know.

Can You Use Your Gas Fireplace During A Power Outage?

<body><div><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=3cSJa7_1H47a9WS00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=3cSJa7_1H47a9WS00" width="718" height="300" >Iran is drafting next year’s budget under the premise that oil revenue could fall to zero, with senior budget official Mohammad Ghasemi <a href="https://presstv.substack.com/p/iran-drafting-1406-budget-on-zero" rel="nofollow">telling the government</a> on Monday to prepare for that scenario, as the country appears to be weeks away from that eventuality.Iran has loaded no crude since August 25, according to the US Treasury, and the oil it held at sea outside the US blockade fell from 88.8 million barrels in mid-July to zero by mid-October. Chinese buyers pay one to two months after delivery, so <a href="https://www.aljazeera.com/economy/2026/11/11/can-tehran-survive-a-zero-oil-budget-if-us-blockade-on-iran-persists" rel="nofollow">Kpler expects</a> that revenue could stop around mid-December. Oil accounts directly for roughly 30% of the government budget, according to Gregory Brew of Eurasia Group and Miad Maleki of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, and Maleki puts its share of total regime revenue at 50% to 60% once indirect income is counted.According to Chatham House’s <a href="https://www.chathamhouse.org/2026/11/will-us-and-iran-return-war" rel="nofollow">Bilal Saab</a>, “The Iranian leadership is betting that if it holds out long enough, those with the most to lose from this economic crisis – Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Kuwait – will press Washington harder to find an exit.”But Trump has settled, for now, on keeping the blockade in place without new strikes, and he says the Gulf states want the same. “Qatar, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, and others, would prefer the status quo,” he said on <a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/117588608183719347" rel="nofollow">Monday</a>. Then, on Thursday, he <a href="https://www.yahoo.com/news/politics/articles/trump-pulls-vance-off-iran-161011396.html" rel="nofollow">said</a> “we don’t need a deal with Iran” and removed Vice President JD Vance from the negotiations, closing the direct channel Vance had opened with a letter to Mohsen Rezaei, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council. Rezaei had <a href="https://www.semafor.com/article/11/12/2026/washington-risks-misinterpreting-irans-peacemaker-according-to-analyst" rel="nofollow">welcomed the letter’s tone</a>, then insisted that Washington accept Iran’s conditions first and said no <a href="https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/iran-wants-enriched-material-build-nuclear-powered-submarines-threaten-attack-us-bases-europe" rel="nofollow">enriched uranium</a> would leave Iran.Mohammad Tabibian, who was deputy director of the Planning and Budget Organization under President Ali Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, <a href="https://www.iranintl.com/en/202611102352" rel="nofollow">told Shargh newspaper</a> on Monday that endurance is the wrong measure of success. “Adapting to sanctions does not mean eliminating their harm,” he said. “A society can therefore gradually become poorer without experiencing a sudden halt to all economic activity.”So, an exit isn’t in sight, and Kpler puts Iranian oil production below 2 million bpd in the months before late October, down from 3.59 million in February, the month the war began. OPEC’s <a href="https://www.semafor.com/article/11/12/2026/saudi-oil-production-rebounds-to-near-prewar-levels" rel="nofollow">latest report</a> puts Iranian output at almost half its pre-war level. The US naval blockade imposed on April 13 then emptied the oil Iran kept at sea. Crude and condensate held outside the blockade zone fell from 88.8 million barrels on July 14 to zero by mid-October, and another 43 million barrels remain stranded inside it.Maleki says Iran will run short of cash in December but will not collapse. “The December timeline is more of a cash flow kind of disruption, and not really a collapse state,” he <a href="https://www.yahoo.com/news/world/articles/iran-oil-lifeline-drying-biggest-080009653.html" rel="nofollow">told Fox News Digital</a> in late October. He <a href="https://www.iranintl.com/en/202610231784" rel="nofollow">told Iran International that</a> the serious trouble will start “when they can no longer pay the cost of buying and transporting the goods they are now importing over land.”Esfandyar Batmanghelidj, founder and CEO of the Bourse &amp; Bazaar Foundation, calls it a recession. “Iran’s economy is not on the verge of collapse, it is simply experiencing a deep recession caused by an external shock,” he <a href="https://x.com/yarbatman/status/2120309197493707182" rel="nofollow">wrote on X</a> on November 10, citing his foundation’s finding that the fall in non-oil output after six months of war was about one-seventh of Ukraine’s contraction after Russia’s invasion.Iran’s Statistical Centre put total GDP 10.1% lower year on year in the three months to June 20, with non-oil output down 4.6%, <a href="https://www.thenationalnews.com/news/gulf/2026/11/04/war-weighed-on-us-midterms-but-irans-economy-is-paying-heavier-price/" rel="nofollow">The National reported</a>. Batmanghelidj also sees Tehran’s neighbours as a possible lifeline, <a href="https://x.com/yarbatman/status/2120460453411254753" rel="nofollow">writing a day later</a> that regional countries “which can’t tolerate more instability” may “quietly support the Iranian economy, including by breaking the blockade.”Tehran’s plan for next year promises to keep paying salaries and pensions without printing money, but offers little to replace the oil income that paid for much of it. Ghasemi has put salaries, pensions and debt payments at the top of a three-tier spending plan and ruled out direct borrowing from the Central Bank. The government also plans to extend its Kalabarg electronic coupon system to about 45 million low-income Iranians, and is counting on oil deposit certificates, customs duties and tighter tax collection for revenue.Next year’s budget sets up a fight between a government that has to cut spending and a parliament that has a record of raising it. Last year the government proposed a budget only 2% larger than the year before, and lawmakers raised that to about 30%. The government sends next year’s budget to parliament between November 22 and December 21. “There’s going to be a fiscal squeeze, and there’s going to be pressure around the release of the new budget,” Brew told Fox News Digital. “There’s going to be economic unrest, potentially even economic turmoil as the government rolls out spending cuts.”Albert Baghzian, a Tehran economist, says the government should admit the deficit up front. “A deficit that can be foreseen should be written into the budget from the beginning,” he <a href="https://www.khabaronline.ir/news/2296554" rel="nofollow">told Khabaronline</a> on Tuesday. “When the government’s revenues do not materialize, it may turn to borrowing from the central bank or to methods that ultimately raise the monetary base and inflation.”Iran has not adjusted the minimum wage since setting it in March, while the prices of basic foods have more than doubled. Eggs rose 149%, imported rice 115%, milk 113% and red meat 104% since last December, Tehran lawmaker Hossein Samsami <a href="https://www.khabaronline.ir/news/2300248" rel="nofollow">told Khabaronline</a>, and the Statistical Centre put year-on-year inflation at <a href="https://fa.shafaqna.com/news/2389352/" rel="nofollow">88.7%</a> in the month ending October 22. The labour minister promised to review the minimum wage in September, and a member of the wage committee told the <a href="https://www.khabaronline.ir/news/2299650" rel="nofollow">Mehr news agency</a> this week that no review has been scheduled.Tehran-based economist Isaac Saidian told Al Jazeera that the government can survive this longer than its citizens can. “The real danger is that it could stay afloat on paper while passing the cost of doing so on to the public, leaving society poorer, eroding the middle class, widening poverty and weakening the country’s productive capacity,” he said.Samsami blames the falling rial. The dollar’s price on Iran’s open market doubled over the same period, from about 130,000 toman to 260,000 (one toman is 10 rials). The government also offers importers a cheaper official rate of about 189,000 toman. On October 21, the trade ministry told the Central Bank to limit that rate to 66 categories of goods, so importers of everything else now pay the open-market price of 260,000 to 270,000. “It is natural that in one or two more months, 50% inflation will be added to the existing inflation,” Samsami said.Hossein Raghfar, an economist at Alzahra University in Tehran, says the government planned for the rial to fall. Last year, he <a href="https://www.khabaronline.ir/news/2293554" rel="nofollow">told Khabaronline</a> on November 1, officials at the budget office discussed letting the dollar reach 270,000 toman if conditions did not improve. The Central Bank tried to slow the rial’s fall on October 3 by making $10,000 available to every Iranian with a national ID card, and within weeks the dollar reached 273,000 toman anyway. Raghfar blames domestic policy for 80% to 85% of Iran’s inflation and the war for 10% to 15%.Gulf commentators are split on whether the blockade is worth what it costs their own economies. Saad bin Tefla Al-Ajmi, Kuwait’s former information minister, backs sustained naval and economic pressure. “The Gulf states are indeed paying a price under this scenario. Their trade is disrupted, tensions persist in their airspace, and their projects are delayed,” he wrote in an article he supplied to <a href="https://www.iranintl.com/en/202611101010" rel="nofollow">Iran International</a>. Ghaith al-Omari, a senior fellow at the Washington Institute, told Iran International that Gulf governments “would like to see the regime weakened, but they don’t believe that the blockade serves their interests.”Tabibian rejects Tehran’s bet that it can hold out longer than Washington. He told Shargh that the United States is better placed to absorb economic shocks, and that counting on disruption in Hormuz or higher energy prices to force Washington’s hand is unreliable. “Why should we consider the suffering of our own people a success, simply in the hope that the other side suffers more?” he asked.By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.comMore Top Reads From Oilprice.com<a href="/Latest-Energy-News/World-News/The-Iran-War-Has-Upended-Global-LNG-Markets.html" rel="nofollow"></a><ul><li><a href="/Alternative-Energy/Nuclear-Power/Fusions-Next-Race-Is-Over-Superconducting-Tape-Not-Plasma.html" rel="nofollow"></a><a href="/Latest-Energy-News/World-News/7-Billion-in-Oil-Debt-Has-Nigerian-Banks-Holding-Back-Lending.html" rel="nofollow">$7 Billion in Oil Debt Has Nigerian Banks Holding Back Lending</a><a href="/Alternative-Energy/Nuclear-Power/Fusions-Next-Race-Is-Over-Superconducting-Tape-Not-Plasma.html" rel="nofollow"></a></li><li><a href="/Alternative-Energy/Nuclear-Power/Fusions-Next-Race-Is-Over-Superconducting-Tape-Not-Plasma.html" rel="nofollow">Fusion's Next Race Is Over Superconducting Tape, Not Plasma</a></li><li><a href="/Energy/Energy-General/Global-Power-Grid-Expansion-Surges-50-to-Record-High.html" rel="nofollow">Global Power Grid Expansion Surges 50% to Record High</a></li></ul></div></body>

Block Source: Oilprice

Iran is preparing for a potential collapse in oil revenue as the U.S. naval blockade threatens government finances and deepens the country's economic crisis.

Iran Braces for a Budget Without Oil Revenue

<body><div><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=3rbBjI_1H41ch5h00" style="display:none" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=3rbBjI_1H41ch5h00" width="1600" height="899" >The modern diesel engine is far removed from its more "industrial" forerunners.&nbsp;The current generation is cleaner-burning, more fuel efficient, quieter, and more durable. While there are several reasons for this durability, the fact that diesel fuel also acts as a lubricant is an important factor. However, if we take a step back and look at the cleaner-burning aspect of modern diesels, we hit upon a bit of a conundrum: one way emissions were reduced was by switching to ultra-low-sulphur diesel, and sulphur played a central role in making diesel fuel naturally "slippery." In short, the shift to cleaner fuel was more than just an exercise in taming what emerged from the exhaust;&nbsp;it also had an effect inside the engine. Diesel still requires a certain amount of lubricity to protect components like pumps and injectors, and older fuels supplied that naturally. When sulphur was removed, some drivers took to adding two-stroke oil to their tanks under the belief that it restored this lost lubrication. This might seem like good logic; after all, two-stroke oil is designed to burn cleanly and provide lubrication,&nbsp;so on the face of it, it's a win-win situation. However, in reality, the facts provide less compelling reasons for adding a little DIY lubrication to your fuel. According to <a href="https://c6-friends.nl/downloads/2-stroke-oil-in-diesel.pdf" rel="nofollow">a paper published by Sasol Energy Technology</a>, adding two-stroke oil to diesel does not improve lubricity. Instead, it can introduce zinc deposits that can foul modern injectors. Let's have a closer look at why adding two-stroke oil to diesel might not be the best idea. Read more: <a href="https://www.slashgear.com/2281110/all-weather-tires-drawbacks/?zsource=newsbreak" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">5 Drawbacks Of Using All-Weather Tires</a><h2>What two-stroke oil does in a diesel engine</h2><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=1g561B_1H41ch5h00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=1g561B_1H41ch5h00" width="780" height="438" ><figcaption>Close up view of a diesel nozzle filling a vehicle's fuel tank. U. J. Alexander/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>Modern diesel engines are built to high tolerances and require the fuel to be engineered to meet these demands. This is where the idea of adding two-stroke oil to your diesel begins to sound less like a good idea. While the main assumption is that two-stroke oil will add back some of the lost lubrication following the switch to ULSD, controlled testing suggests this isn't the case. At least, certainly not at the 200:1 often quoted as the correct "recipe" for adding two-stroke oil to diesel.&nbsp;(For comparison, <a href="https://www.slashgear.com/1900337/ryobi-gas-power-tools-oil-to-gas-ratio-explained/" rel="nofollow">two-stroke engines like Ryobi's require a fuel-to-oil ratio of 50:1</a>.)According to Sasol's research, two-stroke oil added to diesel at the 200:1 ratio made no difference to the lubricity of the fuel in industry-standard testing. Also, the same research found that there was no difference in the cetane number, an indicator used to measure ignition quality. In other words, the fuel doesn't burn better, lubricate better, or protect the engine more effectively when you add a little two-stroke to the mix. Adding two-stroke oil to your diesel engine can also bring some downsides. Adding extra zinc to the mix is one of these;&nbsp;zinc and modern diesel injectors are not a match made in heaven&nbsp;— and it doesn't take much. Zinc levels as low as one-part-per-million can foul injectors, and two-stroke oil often contains zinc levels as high as 16 ppm. <h2>Real alternatives to two-stroke oil</h2><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=0Id6AP_1H41ch5h00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=0Id6AP_1H41ch5h00" width="780" height="438" ><figcaption>A mechanic working on a diesel engine. Malkovstock/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>Putting two-stroke oil in your engine won't bring it to an immediate and grinding stop, nor will it bring any measurable benefits. In the longer term, it may even be detrimental. So, if improving lubricity is the ultimate goal, one proven approach is biodiesel blending. Adding biodiesel at a level of 2% can provide improved lubricity. However, before you rush out and get a supply of biodiesel, it's worth noting that most U.S. diesel is already blended with at least 1% biodiesel, and while you can mix in more, there are some <a href="https://www.slashgear.com/1882452/mix-diesel-biodiesel/" rel="nofollow">drawbacks to be aware of before you blend biodiesel and diesel</a>. Among the downsides of biodiesel are a lower energy density&nbsp;and&nbsp;cold weather gelling, and it can also degrade components like rubber hoses and gaskets. It's also worth noting that fuel manufacturers and engine designers weren't oblivious to the problems of ULSD and didn't just dump it on the market with their fingers crossed. Other additives were developed, and along with the aforementioned biodiesel, these helped to replace the lubricity that was lost when sulfur levels were restricted. <a href="https://www.slashgear.com/1521546/diesel-fuel-additives-explained-do-they-help/" rel="nofollow">Diesel fuel additives work and are there for a reason</a>. On whether two-stroke oil can be added to this list, the best we can say is that the benefits are debatable and the downsides —&nbsp;while probably not catastrophic in the short term&nbsp;— do definitely exist.Want the latest in tech and auto trends? <a href="https://subscribe.slashgear.com/newsletter-syndicated?utm_source=newsbreak&amp;utm_medium=slashgear-NL-feed" rel="nofollow">Subscribe to our free newsletter</a> for the latest headlines, expert guides, and how-to tips, one email at a time. You can also <a href="https://www.google.com/preferences/source?q=slashgear.com" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">add us as a preferred search source</a> on Google.Read the <a href="https://www.slashgear.com/2312025/what-does-two-stroke-oil-do-to-diesel-engine/?zsource=newsbreak" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">original article on SlashGear</a>.</div></body>

After the shift to ultra-low-sulphur diesel, some drivers began mixing in two-stroke oil to restore lubrication. But do the pros of the oil outweigh its cons?

What Does 2-Stroke Oil Do To A Diesel Engine?

<body><div><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=1Ng40L_1H3brwsH00" style="display:none" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=1Ng40L_1H3brwsH00" width="1250" height="836" ><a href="https://minnesotanow.net/" rel="nofollow">Minnesotans</a> have plenty of things they’re passionate about, and where we stop for gas, snacks, and a quick bite is definitely one of them. But if you think you already know which gas station chain wears the crown in the North Star State, you might want to think again.<h2>Minnesota Gas Stations Have Come a Long Way</h2>Gas stations here in <a href="https://minnesotanow.net/" rel="nofollow">the Land of 10,000 Lakes</a> and across the country have evolved, from those small service stations of the past to the massive convenience stores we have today. And did you know <a href="https://minnesotanow.net/" rel="nofollow">Minnesota’s </a>favorite gas station now has&nbsp;190 locations?It’s true. Gas stations are no longer simple, sparse service stations for fueling up. They’ve evolved into cultural phenomena with unique product offerings and fiercely loyal followers. And there are a lot of them out there. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://quickcountry.com/kwik-trip-ice-cream-sale-joke/" rel="nofollow">This Social Media Post from Kwik Trip Is Totally Minnesota</a>In fact, as of 2024, there&nbsp;are a whopping 152,396 convenience stores operating across the United States, according to <a href="https://www.nacsmagazine.com/Issues/February-2024/US-Convenience-Store-Count-Stands-at-152396#:~:text=There%20are%20152%2C396%20convenience%20stores,recorded%20site%20growth%20of%201.5%25." rel="nofollow">the 2024 NACS/NIQ Convenience Industry Store Count</a>. That’s an increase of 2,222 stores from last year.Texas is the state with the most convenience stores in the country, sporting over 16,300 locations <a href="https://www.nacsmagazine.com/Issues/February-2024/US-Convenience-Store-Count-Stands-at-152396#:~:text=There%20are%20152%2C396%20convenience%20stores,recorded%20site%20growth%20of%201.5%25." rel="nofollow">according to the Convenience Industry Store Count</a>. California is second on the list with over 12,100, followed by Florida with just under 9,700 and New York with just under 8,000. The <a href="https://mn.gov/commerce/energy/industry-government/cip/card-grant-search/card-project-pages/convenience-stores.jsp" rel="nofollow">Minnesota Commerce Department</a> estimates there are around 2,000 convenience stores here in<a href="https://minnesotanow.net/" rel="nofollow"> the Bold North.</a><a href="//quickcountry.com/app/" rel="nofollow"></a><h3><a href="//quickcountry.com/app/" rel="nofollow">Download the KWWK Mobile App Now</a></h3>Minnesota’s Favorite Gas Station Has Thousands of Loyal FansBut of those 2,000 stores, which chain is <a href="https://minnesotanow.net/" rel="nofollow">Minnesota’s</a> favorite? Would it be CHS, which is headquartered in St. Paul? Or maybe Circle K or Holiday Station Stores? Or even Wisconsin-based Kwik Trip? Those would all be good guesses, but not correct.According to <a href="https://www.freebets.com/news/americas-favorite-gas-stations/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Data Pandas’ Most Popular Gas Stations by State </a>survey, the <a href="https://www.caseys.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Casey’s General Stores chain</a> was ranked as the favorite gas station chain here in <a href="https://minnesotanow.net/" rel="nofollow">Minnesota.</a> It also voted the favorite gas station in Iowa, both North and South Dakota, and in Nebraska, as well.<figure id="attachment_346107" class="content-post-image alignnone"><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=0w1LF8_1H3brwsH00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=0w1LF8_1H3brwsH00" width="1600" height="1067" ><figcaption>The Casey’s General Store on 7th St and Valleyhigh Dr. in Rochester, MN. (Google Maps)</figcaption></figure><h2>Casey’s Has 190 Locations Across Minnesota</h2>The <a href="https://www.caseys.com/about-us" rel="nofollow">Casey’s General Stores chain</a> was founded in 1968 down in Boone, Iowa, and has grown to encompass over 2,600 stores in 17 different states, where they employ over 40,000 coworkers, <a href="http://v" rel="nofollow">their website</a> says. <a href="https://www.xmap.ai/blog/comprehensive-insights-into-caseys-gas-stations-locations" rel="nofollow">Xmap says that list now includes 190 stores</a> here in the Gopher State, making Minnesota one of the top states for Casey’s, ranking fourth overall behind Iowa, Illinois, and Missouri.Previous surveys have noted that Casey’s General Store is also known for its surprisingly good pizza. Minnesotans routinely head to Casey’s not for gasoline, but to pick up a pie or some wings, both of which have become cult favorites in some circles.Meanwhile, <a href="/tags/wisconsin" rel="nofollow">Wisconsin’s</a> favorite gas station/convenience store is, of course, <a href="https://www.kwiktrip.com/" rel="nofollow">Kwik Trip.</a> Which makes sense, seeing as that popular chain is headquartered over in La Crosse. And while <a href="https://www.kwiktrip.com/" rel="nofollow">Kwik Trip</a> is expanding its presence in the North Star State, it still doesn’t have anywhere near the <a href="https://minnesotanow.net/" rel="nofollow">Minnesota</a> footprint that Casey’s does.Whether it’s Casey’s, Kwik Trip, Circle K, or CHS, all those brands are visited by thousands of <a href="https://minnesotanow.net/" rel="nofollow">Minnesotans</a> every day. That’s the opposite of the following beloved chains, all of which have gone out of business and aren’t around anymore. Keep scrolling to see how many you remember!<a class="gallery-placeholder-link" href="//quickcountry.com/minnesotas-favorite-gas-station/" rel="nofollow">Click here to view photo gallery</a></div></body>

Block Source: MIX 108

According to Data Pandas' Most Popular Gas Stations by State survey, Casey's General Stores was ranked as the favorite gas station chain in Minnesota, and it has 190 locations across the state.

Minnesotans Have Spoken: This Is Their Favorite Gas Station

Block Source: Drivers Daily

When Every Gallon Counted Remember the gas shortages of the 1970s? Long lines at service stations, skyrocketing prices, and the sudden realization that gasoline wasn't always going to be cheap changed how Americans drove. Half a century later, a lot of those old fuel-saving habits are finding new relevance. From slowing down on highways to squeezing every possible mile out of a tank, here are 24 strategies from the energy crisis era that still make sense today. Factinate Ltd Slowing Down On Highways In 1974, the federal government introduced a national 55-mph speed limit to conserve fuel. Drivers weren't always thrilled, but the reasoning was sound. Higher speeds generally mean greater fuel consumption. Today, motorists looking to stretch their gasoline budgets are rediscovering the benefits of easing off the accelerator, even where higher speed limits are permitted. Smith, Bob, Photographer (NARA record: 8464481), Wikimedia Commons Carpooling To Work During the energy crisis, Americans were encouraged to share rides with coworkers rather than drive separately. Some employers even helped organize carpools. Although participation varied, the idea never disappeared. Today, workplace ridesharing programs, commuter apps, and high-occupancy vehicle lanes are helping revive the same practical approach to reducing individual fuel costs. San

Things Drivers Did To Save Gas During The 1970s That Are Making A Comeback

<body><div><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=2bdORn_1H5ZJW8F00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=2bdORn_1H5ZJW8F00" width="1280" height="720" >You check the dipstick, only to discover that your engine is down another quart. Sound familiar? Some engines develop serious oil consumption problems long before reaching 100,000 miles, leaving owners constantly topping up and wondering where the oil is going. In many cases, the problem comes down to weak piston rings, defective valve seals, poor engine design, or faulty crankcase ventilation systems.What starts as a minor inconvenience can eventually lead to expensive repairs or even complete engine failure. Whether you already own one of these vehicles or are considering buying a used car, knowing which engines have a history of excessive oil consumption can save you considerable money and frustration. Here are 10 engines that have attracted complaints from owners for burning through oil.<figure id="attachment_443473-3" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=2bR4kC_1H5ZJW8F00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=2bR4kC_1H5ZJW8F00" width="1650" height="928" ><figcaption id="caption-attachment-443473-3" class="wp-caption-text">BMW N63 4.4L Twin-Turbo V8</figcaption></figure><h2>1. BMW N63 4.4L Twin-Turbo V8 (2008-2019)</h2>BMW’s N63 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 is known for its performance, but owners need to pay close attention to its oil level. One reason is the engine’s unusual design. Its two turbochargers sit inside the V-shaped space between the cylinder banks.This arrangement helps deliver power, but it also exposes components to high temperatures. The heat can damage valve stem seals and contribute to piston ring wear, allowing engine oil to enter the combustion chambers and burn.BMW fitted this engine to several models, including the 550i, 650i, 750i, X5, X6 and M5. These vehicles offer acceleration, yet some owners have reported having to add oil between scheduled services. In certain cases, the engine uses enough oil to require more than one top-up before the next service appointment.For owners, regular oil checks are essential. Do not wait for a dashboard warning before checking the dipstick, because running with too little oil can damage the turbochargers, bearings, and other engine parts.If you notice that the level keeps dropping, ask a qualified mechanic to find the cause instead of simply adding more oil.Anyone planning to buy a used BMW with the N63 should request its service history. Arrange an inspection with a mechanic who understands BMW engines, and ask whether the valve stem seals, piston rings, or other affected parts have been repaired.It is sensible to keep a bottle of the correct engine oil in the boot. Careful checks and timely repairs can help prevent a costly engine failure.<figure id="attachment_443475-3" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=2EyAKm_1H5ZJW8F00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=2EyAKm_1H5ZJW8F00" width="1536" height="1024" ><figcaption id="caption-attachment-443475-3" class="wp-caption-text">GM 2.4L Ecotec 4-Cylinder</figcaption></figure><h2>2. GM 2.4L Ecotec 4-Cylinder (2010-2017)</h2>General Motors designed the 2.4L Ecotec engine to deliver better fuel economy, but its piston ring design became a source of trouble for many owners. The engine uses low-tension piston rings to reduce friction and improve efficiency.Unfortunately, some of these rings fail to maintain enough pressure against the cylinder walls, making it difficult to remove excess oil. As a result, oil enters the combustion chambers and burns while the engine is running.This problem has affected several popular vehicles, including the Chevrolet Equinox, GMC Terrain, and Buick Verano. Some owners have reported losing about one quart of oil every 800 to 1,200 miles, even when their vehicles have covered fewer than 80,000 miles.<a href="https://daxstreet.com/guide/443399/10-engines-with-the-most-oil-consumption-complaints/" rel="nofollow">Continue reading.</a></div></body>

Block Source: DaxStreet

You check the dipstick, only to discover that your engine is down another quart. Sound familiar? Some engines develop serious oil consumption problems long before reaching 100,000 miles, leaving owners constantly topping up and wondering where the oil is going. In many cases, the problem comes down to weak piston rings, defective valve seals, poor engine design, or faulty crankcase ventilation systems. What starts as a minor inconvenience can eventually lead to expensive repairs or even complete engine failure. Whether you already own one of these vehicles or are considering buying a used car, knowing which engines have a history of excessive oil consumption can save you considerable money and frustration. Here are 10 engines that have attracted complaints from owners for burning through oil. BMW N63 4.4L Twin-Turbo V8 1. BMW N63 4.4L Twin-Turbo V8 (2008-2019) BMW’s N63 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 is known for its performance, but owners need to pay close attention to its oil level. One reason is the engine’s unusual design. Its two turbochargers sit inside the V-shaped space between the cylinder banks. This arrangement helps deliver power, but it also exposes components to high temperatures. The heat can damage valve stem seals and contribute to

10 Engines With the Most Oil Consumption Complaints

Rep. Mike Levin, D-Calif., called for a congressional investigation into Vice President JD Vance’s connections to a former Vitol oil trader and the Trump administration’s handling of Venezuelan oil contracts, following a Reuters investigation that raised questions about political relationships, government access and lucrative agreements awarded without competitive bidding. In a November 12 statement, Levin […]

Rep. Levin Calls for Investigation Into Vance’s Ties to Venezuela Oil Deal — “We Should Demand the Phone Records, Emails, and Flight Logs”

Hansen Hills, CA

Rounds of rain can bring the risk of flooding this week; check AccuWeather often