That simple act — a handwritten note and a fair tip — became a viral story about humility, empathy, and second chances. For the server, it wasn’t about the money but about being seen and respected. For the teens, it was a lesson in responsibility. And for everyone who read it, it was a reminder that goodness still exists — that even small gestures can rebuild faith in humanity when the world feels short on kindness.

Videos circulating online show cars nearly fully underwater as residents scramble for safety. Eyewitnesses say the water levels are rising rapidly, fueled by hours of relentless rainfall and blocked drainage systems.

Authorities are urging residents to stay indoors, avoid flooded areas, and prepare for potential evacuations as the storm system continues to move across central Jamaica.

Local officials have confirmed that emergency teams are on the ground assisting those trapped by rising waters, but power outages and blocked roads are hampering rescue efforts.

Experts warn this could be “just the beginning,” as forecasters predict more heavy rain throughout the night and into tomorrow morning. Many residents fear this could rival the devastating floods that hit Manchester parish in past years.

Stay with us for updates as this story develops. Our team will be tracking the latest footage, official statements, and community rescue efforts.

In a 15-page order, Boston US District Judge Indira Talwani gave the Department of Agriculture until Monday to report whether it could “authorize only reduced SNAP benefits” using money set aside to respond to natural disasters “or to authorize full SNAP benefits” using the emergency money and “additional available funds.”

Leaders of 25 Democratic-run states and the District of Columbia sued the USDA Tuesday after the executive agency warned that the “well has run dry” for SNAP benefits, also known as food stamps, due to the ongoing shutdown.

Saturday will mark the first lapse in federal SNAP funding for 60 years, with the states arguing the Trump administration was violating the Food and Nutrition Act, which requires that “assistance under this program shall be furnished to all eligible households.”Earlier Friday, Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins insisted to reporters that the contingency fund could not be used even if the administration wanted to.

“There is a contingency fund at USDA, but that contingency fund, by the way, doesn’t even cover, I think half of the $9.2 billion that would be required for November SNAP,” she said. “It is only allowed to flow if the underlying program is funded. If Hurricane Melissa or one of the hurricanes hits, that’s the contingency fund that we would use to send more money into the vulnerable communities that are harmed by a specific event, like a hurricane — but it is a contingency fund that can only flow if the underlying appropriation is approved.”

A Massachusetts federal judge ruled Friday that the Trump administration move to suspend SNAP food benefits to 42 million Americans due to the ongoing government shutdown was likely against the law — but stopped short of ordering the White House to tap into emergency funds to keep the entitlement flowingIn a 15-page order, Boston US District Judge Indira Talwani gave the Department of Agriculture until Monday to report whether it could “authorize only reduced SNAP benefits” using money set aside to respond to natural disasters “or to authorize full SNAP benefits” using the emergency money and “additional available funds.”

Leaders of 25 Democratic-run states and the District of Columbia sued the USDA Tuesday after the executive agency warned that the “well has run dry” for SNAP benefits, also known as food stamps, due to the ongoing shutdown.

Saturday will mark the first lapse in federal SNAP funding for 60 years, with the states arguing the Trump administration was violating the Food and Nutrition Act, which requires that “assistance under this program shall be furnished to all eligible households.”

Earlier Friday, Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins insisted to reporters that the contingency fund could not be used even if the administration wanted to.

“There is a contingency fund at USDA, but that contingency fund, by the way, doesn’t even cover, I think half of the $9.2 billion that would be required for November SNAP,” she said. “It is only allowed to flow if the underlying program is funded. If Hurricane Melissa or one of the hurricanes hits, that’s the contingency fund that we would use to send more money into the vulnerable communities that are harmed by a specific event, like a hurricane — but it is a contingency fund that can only flow if the underlying appropriation is approved.”

Bravery in Seconds as Flames Engulf Bus

Just moments after the last child stepped away from the bus, it erupted into a fireball. “It all happened so fast,” Zarco recalled. Despite choking smoke and rising heat, the workers never paused to think of their own safety, only the children’s. Thanks to their quick action, every student escaped unharmed — a miracle in what could have been a horrific tragedy.

Community Honors Everyday Heroes

In October, Madera County officials formally honored Perea and Zarco for their heroic actions. “Buses can be replaced. Humans can’t,” CAL FIRE Chief Larry Pendarvis said, capturing the gratitude shared by families and first responders. The Board of Supervisors praised the pair for courage and community spirit, noting the children survived solely because of their immediate response.

A Story of Courage and Community

Humbled by the recognition, Zarco and Perea said they were simply in the right place at the right time — a belief echoed by the community that now calls them heroes. Their bravery served as a powerful reminder that extraordinary acts often come from ordinary people. On that morning, they didn’t hesitate — and because of that, dozens of children made it home safely, turning a near-tragedy into a shining example of human courage and compassion.

A congressional candidate in Illinois has been indicted on federal charges for allegedly obstructing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations.

Kat Abughazaleh, a social media influencer and pseudo-journalist running in the Democratic primary for Illinois’ 9th Congressional District, is accused of repeatedly standing in front of federal vehicles and interfering with ICE agents during protests outside the agency’s Broadview, Ill., detention facility.

Abughazaleh is one of six individuals charged in connection with the demonstrations, which have continued for several weeks.

The indictment, which was filed on October 23, alleges that Abughazaleh “physically hindered and impeded” an agent who was “forced to drive at an extremely slow rate of speed to avoid injuring any of the conspirators.”

Abughazaleh was charged along with five other individuals involved in the riots, including two other political candidates.

The Broadview ICE facility has been the site of repeated demonstrations and clashes involving far-left activists. Several Democratic candidates for the open House seat in Chicago — including Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss and Abughazaleh — have recorded themselves participating in protests that involved blocking ICE vehicles.Other demonstrators have engaged in more aggressive actions, including throwing rocks at federal vehicles, slashing tires, and confronting agents during near-daily disturbances outside the facility.

Federal officers responded with crowd-control measures such as pepper spray, tear gas, and rubber bullets, though they were initially outnumbered until additional federal personnel and National Guard reinforcements were deployed.

In a video posted on X on September 26, Abughazaleh proudly spoke about how she and numerous other protesters obstructed a moving ICE vehicle, preventing it from advancing. “Up, up with liberation,” the mob could be heard chanting as she stood at the front of the group.

“At the Broadview ICE facility, an ICE agent tried to run dozens of protesters over with an SUV as we walked on a public crosswalk,” the far-left congressional candidate captioned the video.

The indictment alleges that the group “conspired with one another and others, known and unknown, to prevent by force, intimidation, and threat, Agent A, a United States law enforcement officer, from discharging the duties of his office, and to injure him in his person or property on account of his lawful discharge of the duties of his office, and while engaged in the lawful discharge thereof, and to injure his property so as to interrupt, hinder, and impede him in the discharge of his official duties.”

According to a court filing, none of the defendants have been taken into custody and will be permitted to self-surrender on Wednesday, November 5. The case has been assigned to U.S. District Judge April M. Perry, a Biden appointee.

Abughazaleh faces one count of conspiracy and a second charge alleging that she “forcibly impeded, intimidated, and interfered” with a federal agent in the performance of official duties, the indictment reads.

“This is a political prosecution, and a gross attempt to silence dissent, a right protected under the First Amendment. This case is a major push by the Trump administration to criminalize protest and punish anyone who speaks out against them. That’s why I’m going to fight these unjust charges,” she said in a statement.

Meanwhile, New Jersey Democratic Rep. LaMonica McIver was indicted in May for allegedly obstructing federal agents during a visit to an immigration facility.

McIver was indicted by a federal grand jury on three counts, including assaulting and interfering with officers during a May 9 incident at the Delaney Hall Immigration Facility in Newark.

McIver and two other lawmakers said they were conducting an official oversight visit that overlapped with a protest when she was arrested. But video taken during the incident allegedly shows her striking an ICE agent and pushing him.

Those close to the family described her as a devoted parent and Bruno’s biggest supporter. She stood by him through every stage of his life, encouraging his dreams and celebrating his victories with pride.

Her influence extended beyond motherhood — she was his mentor and motivator. Friends say she shaped Bruno’s character with love, discipline, and unwavering faith in his potential.

For Bruno, this loss represents far more than the passing of a parent. It marks the departure of a guiding light who helped define his path both personally and athletically.

The farewell drew emotional tributes from teammates, coaches, and community members. Many expressed how difficult it is to see someone so young face such an immense heartbreak.

Messages of sympathy and admiration poured in, celebrating the life and kindness of Bruno’s mother. Those who knew her described her as compassionate, strong, and deeply devoted to her family.

Amid the sorrow, Bruno has found comfort in the support surrounding him. Though the pain of loss remains heavy, he has expressed gratitude for the love shown to him during this profoundly difficult time.

The afternoon was uneventful, the kind of call that doesn’t make headlines. There had been a minor argument outside a small corner shop — nothing serious, just frayed tempers and a few harsh words. Within minutes, the situation was resolved. The officer took a few notes, gave some calm instructions, and watched the group disperse. Another incident closed, one of dozens that fill a normal shift.

But as the officer prepared to leave, something on the edge of the sidewalk caught his attention — something easy to overlook, but impossible for him to ignore.

A Small Figure on the Curb

Sitting alone near the curb was a boy, maybe eight or nine years old. His backpack looked almost as big as he was, its straps loose and frayed, one zipper hanging by a thread. He sat quietly, eyes down, kicking at the pavement, his hands gripping the pack like it held his whole world. People passed by without a glance. A few looked, hesitated, and kept walking.

The officer didn’t.

He approached, not with authority, but with caution — the kind of care that comes from instinct more than training. Instead of towering over the boy, he sat down beside him, both of them facing the street. Two figures in uniform and school clothes, sharing a quiet patch of concrete that suddenly mattered more than anything else around them.

A Wordless Exchange

The security camera above the shop caught everything, though neither of them knew it. There’s no sound on the footage, only their gestures — small, subtle, full of meaning. The officer removed his hat, leaned forward, and said something that made the boy glance up for the first time.

A few moments later, the officer reached into his pocket and pulled out a sandwich, wrapped neatly in paper. He offered it to the boy. There was a pause — the kind that says, Is this really for me? The boy hesitated, then nodded and accepted it.

What followed wasn’t dramatic. They just sat together, talking quietly, sharing a meal and the kind of comfort that doesn’t need many words. From time to time, they both smiled — brief, genuine smiles that hinted at connection and relief.

The officer didn’t pull out a notepad. He didn’t radio in or make a report. He just stayed.

The Camera That Saw Everything

The entire interaction lasted about twenty minutes. When it ended, the boy slung the oversized backpack over his shoulders and walked away, turning once to wave. The officer stood for a moment, watching him disappear down the block before returning to his patrol car.

For both of them, that might have been the end of it. Just a fleeting act of compassion that went unnoticed, forgotten by the world.

Except it wasn’t.

Days later, the store owner reviewing the shop’s security footage stumbled upon the scene. They replayed it twice, then again. Moved by what they saw, they decided to share it online — a simple clip showing quiet kindness in its purest form.

The Video That Captured the World
The video spread faster than anyone expected. Within hours, it was shared thousands of times on social media. Viewers from every corner of the world left comments — gratitude, admiration, tears.

“This is what real service looks like.”
“Not all heroes wear capes — some wear a badge.”
“In a world full of noise, this kind of silence says everything.”

Local news picked it up, then national outlets. Soon, the officer was being called “the man who reminded us what decency looks like.” The footage didn’t show drama or danger. It showed something more powerful: empathy without an audience.

Why It Struck Such a Chord
The story hit at a time when public trust and compassion often seem in short supply. People are used to seeing videos of conflict, confrontation, or outrage. This one was different. There were no speeches, no staged smiles — just an officer taking twenty minutes out of his day to make sure a lonely child didn’t feel invisible.

That small decision — to stop, to notice, to care — resonated because it reminded people that kindness doesn’t always come with fanfare. It often happens in quiet corners of ordinary days.

For the boy, it was more than a sandwich. It was recognition, safety, a moment of dignity. For the officer, it was likely instinct — doing what felt right, not expecting anyone to notice.

And for everyone who saw the video, it became something bigger: proof that small, unseen acts can ripple outward in ways we never anticipate.

The Power of Simple Humanity
When reporters later tracked down the officer, he seemed almost embarrassed by the attention. He insisted he hadn’t done anything special. “I just saw a kid who looked hungry,” he said. “Anyone else would’ve done the same.”

But that humility was part of what made the moment resonate. The world doesn’t often see restraint and compassion rewarded. Yet here was a reminder that leadership — real leadership — starts with empathy.

It’s easy to forget how powerful that can be. A conversation, a meal shared, a gesture of respect — these things restore faith, one human moment at a time.

A Reminder That Kindness Still Exists
Millions watched the clip and shared it not because it was sensational, but because it was simple. It reminded them that there are still people who choose decency over indifference, who pause long enough to notice another person’s struggle.

We live in an age of constant motion and distraction, where everyone’s rushing to the next thing. But kindness doesn’t need a platform. It just needs awareness — the willingness to stop and act, even when no one’s looking.

The officer didn’t know he was being filmed. He didn’t set out to inspire anyone. But by being present in one small, forgotten moment, he reminded the world of something profoundly human: compassion is still alive, and it matters.

The Takeaway
The story of that quiet act — one sandwich, one child, one unguarded moment — continues to circulate online, collecting millions of views and countless comments. And while it’s easy to scroll past another viral video, this one lingers because it says something timeless: that goodness doesn’t always announce itself.

It shows up in silence, on a street corner, between strangers — and in doing so, it restores a little faith in the world.

Sometimes the greatest stories aren’t about the loudest events or the biggest heroes. Sometimes they’re about an officer who sat down beside a boy on a curb and reminded us all what kindness looks like when nobody’s watching.

Non-Inflammatory versus Inflammatory Acne

Each type of acne technically falls into one of two categories: non-inflammatory or inflammatory though to be clear, all acne stems from some level of inflammation. A few types are more tender, puffy, and angry than others—those are classified as “inflammatory.” Papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts fall into this category, as they’re all typically red and painful.

“Non-inflammatory” acne, on the other hand, results in subtler mounds—these are your whiteheads, blackheads, and subclinical breakouts. Also known as comedonal acne, the bumps tend to be flesh-toned, aside from blackheads, which are darker in color) It is typically caused by clogged hair follicles and found where the skin is more oily, like the chest, back, and T-zone area of the face.

Non-inflammatory acne can become inflamed later on when there is an overgrowth of bacteria (specifically Cutibacterium acnes1), which can cause the release of inflammatory cytokines and messengers to create clinical inflammation. So again, all acne is inflammation on some level.

Whiteheads

Closed comedones are whiteheads; they look like tiny whitish or flesh-colored bumps on the surface of the skin. Whiteheads are not the large, tender pimples with a big pus-filled center (those are pustules, which we’ll get into later). Rather, because whiteheads are not inflamed, they are much subtler. Think small, fleshy bumps on the skin, caused by dead skin, excess oil, and overall debris blocking the pores.

How to treat it:

•  AHAs or BHAs: Sloughing off the dead skin can help you avoid clogging the pores in the first place. Salicylic acid is an ideal option for oily skin (it is oil-soluble allowing it to penetrate into the pores), while AHAs like lactic acid are typically more hydrating and more suitable for those with drier or sensitive skin types.
•  Retinol: Retinol and retinoids enhance the skin’s normal turnover process to prevent dead skin cells from accumulating in the pore. Osmosis Skincare offers a range of exceptional Retinal Serums utilizing pharmaceutical grade liposomal retinaldehyde and proprietary nutrients beyond the surface to feed and remodel the skin.
•  Get regular peels: There may be a genetic component to nodular acne; that said, if you have a family history, regular, in-office chemical peels can help remove excess dead skin and trigger cell turnover—which, in turn, can help prevent clogged pores and nodules with time.
•  Pore-clearing masks: Ingredients like activated charcoal and clay are popular in pore-clearing masks, as these draw out excess oil and gunk from the pores, thus preventing blemishes from forming.

Blackheads

Blackheads form the same way whiteheads do (when the pore becomes blocked with gunk and oil) with one difference: they’re considered open comedones. An open comedone, or blackhead, occurs when the debris is exposed to the air, whereas a closed comedone, or whitehead, occurs when the debris is just under the surface of the skin and not exposed to the air. That oxygen exposure is what makes them turn dark in color.

How to treat it.

Blackheads and whiteheads are cut from the same cloth (aside from the oxidation of the plug), so you can treat them pretty similarly:

•  AHAs, BHAs & clays: Cleansers with salicylic acid, clay masks, and chemical exfoliants with alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids can all help to exfoliate the skin and make your skin less prone to developing blackheads. An excellent option here is Osmosis Skincare’s Deep, a detoxifying cleanser that works to remove deep impurities and promotes an invigorating clean.
•  Blackhead removers: You can find a slew of market products dedicated to this very issue, from daily toners to blackhead masks to treatment gels (you won’t find any pore strips—as those do not actually unclog the plug at its source).
•  DIY masks: Plenty of natural ingredients can gently dissolve dead skin cells and lift debris from the pores, including Cranberry Enzyme, a key ingredient in Osmosis Skincare’s Cranberry Enzyme Mask.

Subclinical acne

While subclinical acne is not a term used in dermatology, it’s used enough in skin care conversations to earn a spot on our list. Essentially, it’s a fancy way of saying “congested skin,” and it’s synonymous with whiteheads.

These flesh-colored bumps never seem to come to a “head,” but they can progress into pimples or pustules if they become inflamed—which can happen if they’re left untreated. They are non-painful and usually do not lead to scarring or skin discoloration.

How to treat it:

•  Salicylic acid: BHAs are superb for comedonal acne, as the ingredient can penetrate deep into the pores and help break up the pore-clogging material.
•  Retinol: Again, retinol is A+ for preventing comedones as well. Topical retinoids have a comedolytic effect, meaning that they help to prevent and treat clogged pores. This is the result of their ability to increase the turnover of skin cells and reduce the tendency of cells and keratin debris to clump together.
•  Benzoyl peroxide: Benzoyl peroxide can kill acne-causing bacteria and help break up pore-clogging agents, like dead skin cells (which can lead to subclinical acne). If you do use retinols, stick to a benzoyl peroxide face wash in the morning, so you can apply retinol at night as when benzoyl peroxide and retinoids (or retinols) are used in combination, they interact causing both to be less effective.
•  Get regular peels: There may be a genetic component to nodular acne; that said, if you have a family history, regular, in-office chemical peels can help remove excess dead skin and trigger cell turnover—which, in turn, can help prevent clogged pores and nodules with time.

Papules

Papules are a form of inflammatory acne, they look like solid red bumps, while pustules have pus at the top. These are the stereotypical red-colored bump you may associate with acne—that’s a papule. They start out as a comedone (either closed or open) and become inflamed when bacteria that lives on the skin overgrows inside that clogged pore.

How to treat it:

•  Aloe vera: Aloe vera is chock-full of anti-inflammatory vitamins, enzymes, minerals, and amino acids to soothe papules, as well as natural salicylic acids to help unplug the acne at the source. Additionally, aloe has some antimicrobial properties: and aloe used topically in combination with tretinoin cream (a prescription-strength retinoid) was found to be effective in treating inflammatory and noninflammatory acne3.
•  Benzoyl peroxide: It kills the acne-causing bacteria, P. acnes, that lives within our hair follicles, and it also helps to break up and remove dead skin cells that clog our pores. This makes the benzoyl peroxide especially helpful for angry papules—it canhelp with comedonal acne but is mainly hailed for shrinking inflammatory pimples.
•  Tea tree oil: Tea tree oil has antimicrobial properties and is capable of lowering levels of acne-causing bacteria on the skin when applied to acne lesions. In fact, one double-blind placebo-controlled study found that a 5% tea tree oil gel blend was an effective treatment for mild to moderate acne4. Plus, tea tree oil is anti-inflammatory, which means it has the ability to soothe and relieve irritated, itchy, red, swollen skin. Tea tree oil should always be diluted the potent essential oil with a carrier—you never want to apply it directly to the skin.
•  Blue Light Therapy: Blue light therapy that uses light in the 415 nm range is absorbed by porphyrin. The bacteria causing acne, P. acnes contains abundant levels of porphyrin and when the blue light is absorbed an oxygen free-radical is created which is released into the bacteria, killing the bacteria.

Pustules

Again, papules often turn into pustules: When the red papule forms a white, pus-filled head, you now have a tender pustule. People often mistake these white heads as, well, a “whitehead,” but in clinical derm-speak, those are two very different things. It might feel tempting to squeeze the pimple as soon as you see this head forming, but do try to resist this temptation. Self-surgery is not a good idea and it is best to see a professional for extractions—not only can these lead to scarring (which in some cases can be permanent including pitting), permanent dark spots, as well as infections, .

How to treat it:

•  Ice: Pustules are pretty swollen, inflamed mounds. And how do we bring swelling down? Ice! Not only does the cool temperature feel produce a soothing feeling, also constricts the circulation, limiting flow to the area and retracting the inflammation. Our professional, in salon acne facials utilize a cold therapy skin stimulation.
•  Spot treat: If you have a spot treatment, serum, or mask, that features acne-fighting ingredients (retinol, salicylic acid, tea tree oil, benzoyl peroxide, witch hazel, etc.) such as Osmosis Clarify Retinal Serum, you can always tap it onto the blemish before bed. It’s a great tip to shrink pimples overnight, as the extra dose can help unclog pores and treat the breakout.
•  Blue Light Therapy: As mentioned above, blue light in the 415 nm range is absorbed by porphyrin. The bacteria causing acne, P. acnes contains abundant levels of porphyrin and when the blue light is absorbed an oxygen free-radical is created which is released into the bacteria, killing the bacteria.

Nodules

Nodular acne, along with cystic acne are two of the most severe forms of acne, though nodules are firmer than cysts, and more widespread than typical pimples. This type of acne often feels like firm knots under the skin and can be found on the face and body.

In terms of appearance, nodules look like hard lesions that feel like lumps under the skin; and while they may be flesh-toned or red, they’re often pretty painful to the touch.

How to treat it:

•  See a holistic esthetician and a dermatologist: First this type of acne is usually the direct result of, or a complicating factor of imbalances in the body including, the gastrointestinal tract (often resulting from food sensitivities / allergies or an overgrowth of harmful bacteria and yeasts – see 7 Foods That Can Cause Acne), hormonal imbalances, etc. Diet is the best place to start with this type of acne. If these initial efforts don’t sufficiently resolve your Nodular acne we recommend you see a dermatologist as OTC acne treatments simply aren’t effective against nodules. Your dermatologist isn’t likely to provide much assistance as it relates to lifestyle recommendations including dietary factors that could be contributing to your acne. Your dermatologist will be able to prescribe medications, including topicals and systemic therapies such as antibiotics (like tetracycline, mincocycline, or eryhtromycin), oral contraceptives, or isotretinoin (aka Accutane) to treat and prevent any additional lesions from forming. These medications may help to treat the systems, however, they won’t address the underlying cause of your acne and give you the clear, glowing perfection we all seek (they also all have side effects and other complications)!
•  Get regular peels: There may be a genetic component to nodular acne; that said, if you have a family history, regular, in-office chemical peels can help remove excess dead skin and trigger cell turnover—which, in turn, can help prevent clogged pores and nodules with time.
•  Look for brightening ingredients: Nodules have a higher risk of scarring. If you notice some scarring or hyperpigmentation, brightening ingredients (think vitamin C or arbutin) can help fade those marks over time. Osmosis Catalyst AC-11 DNA Repair Serum is an exceptional option. This clinically rpoven serum activates the repair mechanisms of our own cells to reverse aging, reduce pigmentation, decrease scar tissue, clear capillaries, and increase skin elasticity.

Cysts

Cystic acne is characterized by inflamed lesions, often large in size, that form deep within the skin—but unlike other forms of acne, they never come to a head on the surface. And unlike hard nodules, cysts can be soft to the touch (in fact, they’re often puffy and tender).

How to treat it:

•  Chamomile: This botanical has been an age-old remedy for treating wounds and skin irritations in traditional medicine, and its anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce the painful swelling. When used in topical skin care products, chamomile can help calm and soothe the skin.
Because the inflammation associated with Cystic Acne is so deep, cysts are more prone to scarring. While we’ve repeatedly discussed retinol’s ability to prevent blemishes and breakouts, it can also help decrease acne scarring as well. In addition to exfoliating dead skin cells, retinoid blocks the activity of enzymes behind melanin synthesis, resulting in a more even skin tone. Again we recommend Osmosis Clarify Retinal Serum for the treatment of acne.
•  See an esthetician and/or dermatologist: While diet, stress reduction and other at-home methods can help, they shouldn’t be your only plan of action. At the end of the day, cystic acne should always be treated in conjunction with a professional, and the very worst thing you can do for cystic breakouts is to touch, squeeze, or try to pop the lesions.

The Takeaway

Acne is a complex skin condition with several triggers and contributing factors—you can’t expect to treat each spot the same way. Some ingredients are better suited than others for each type of acne, which is why classifying your blemishes is a solid place to start Any treatment plan should include diet, stess reduction, and other lifestyle factors.

The discovery brought an end to an intensive, days-long search that involved multiple local and state agencies. Authorities reported that the search began soon after Smith’s disappearance was reported. Police officers, firefighters, and volunteers combed the college grounds and nearby wooded areas. Drones and K9 units were deployed, and the search perimeter was gradually expanded to include surrounding forests and rural properties near the campus.

By Wednesday, October 22, the operation had intensified. Personnel from the Middlebury Fire Department, the Vermont State Police Search and Rescue Team, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection joined forces to assist in the effort. Tragically, the following afternoon—Thursday, October 23—search teams discovered a body in a field adjacent to The Knoll, Middlebury College’s organic farm, at approximately 1:30 p.m. The remains were soon identified as belonging to Lia Smith. Initial findings at the scene indicated no signs of foul play.

A subsequent autopsy conducted by the Vermont Chief Medical Examiner’s Office determined that Smith’s death was the result of suicide. In response to the heartbreaking news, Middlebury College President Ian Baucom released a public statement expressing the college community’s profound grief and extending condolences to Smith’s family. “I have spoken with Lia’s family to express my heartbreak,” Baucom wrote. “As president, and even more as a fellow parent, I ache for them. This is a profound loss that no one should ever have to endure.”

He went on to praise the compassion and dedication of the college staff and students who supported Smith’s loved ones during the search and after the devastating discovery. “As we mourn, I want to express my deep appreciation for the efforts of our Student Affairs staff who have been offering such compassionate support to Lia’s family, friends, and students across our community. We will continue to support them in every way possible.”

President Baucom also highlighted Smith’s many contributions to the Middlebury community, describing her as a gifted student and a kind, passionate advocate. “She was a diver on our Women’s Swimming and Diving Team, a member of our Chess and Japanese clubs, and an articulate advocate for transgender rights. Her academic interests were wide-ranging—she was pursuing a double major in computer science and statistics. Lia was truly a gift to us, and we are deeply grateful that she was, and will always remain, a member of our Middlebury family.”

Smith joined Middlebury College in 2022 and quickly made an impression both academically and athletically. As a member of the Women’s Swimming and Diving Team, she earned victories in the one-meter and three-meter diving events at a December 2022 meet. Her coaches and teammates described her as talented, disciplined, and supportive—someone who inspired others through her quiet determination and kindness.

She was expected to graduate in May 2026. The news of her passing has deeply affected the Middlebury community, with many students and faculty members sharing messages of remembrance and grief online. The college has announced plans to hold a campus vigil in Lia’s memory, offering students and staff a space to mourn and celebrate her life.

May Lia Smith rest in peace.

On our wedding day, everything felt perfect. My nine-year-old nephew Leo stood beside me, proudly holding the ring box. Despite the marks he carries from a difficult experience in his childhood, he wore his tuxedo with confidence and joy. To me, Leo represented more than just family—he embodied resilience and love.

But just as Emily, my bride, began her walk down the aisle, her parents called me over. In hushed tones, they asked me to remove Leo from the ceremony, claiming his appearance might make some guests uncomfortable and could affect the wedding photos. I was shocked—and heartbroken when I realized Leo had overheard them.

Before I could respond, Emily stopped the music and addressed her parents in front of everyone. Without hesitation, she stood up for Leo and me, saying their behavior was hurtful and unacceptable. When they continued to argue, she calmly asked them to step aside—and they did.

The ceremony went on, and Leo proudly walked me back to the altar. Emily made her entrance once again, surrounded by unconditional love and support. We were married with Leo standing right beside us, just as it was meant to be.

The reception was filled with laughter, dancing, and joy. Leo was celebrated by everyone there. Even though her parents chose to leave, we gained something far more valuable: a reminder that true family is built on love, not appearances