Good morning. Staffing shortages ground travelers, beloved paintings fund public television, and precious metals surge as uncertainty drives Americans toward safe havens.

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Over 9,000 flights were delayed Monday and Tuesday at U.S. airports due to air-traffic control staffing shortages during the federal government shutdown, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy confirmed. The FAA noted a slight uptick in sick leave requests among controllers.

The system faces critical understaffing, with 10,800 controllers versus the 14,633 needed. Nashville International Airport experienced delays exceeding two hours Tuesday, while Hollywood Burbank Airport shut down air-traffic operations entirely for several hours due to insufficient staff.

Controllers are essential workers required to work without pay during shutdowns. Union officials warned the situation could discourage new recruitment for the already-pressured profession. FAA shortages worsen.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's speech to generals sparked departure concerns. Two senior leaders retired shortly after, though the Pentagon said exits were unrelated to his "my way or the highway" ultimatum in Quantico, Virginia, last week.

Hegseth told attendees to resign if his vision made their "heart sink." He proposed curtailing whistleblower functions and allowing drill sergeants physical contact with recruits. Gen. Thomas Bussiere and Gen. Bryan Fenton announced retirements following the speech.

Experts predict widespread anxiety but doubt mass resignations. Analysts noted officers at colonel and general levels are choosing retirement. Democrats urged military leaders to stay despite values conflicts.

Thirty Bob Ross paintings will be auctioned to support public television stations after Trump administration funding cuts, Bonhams announced Tuesday. The first auction is November 11. Total estimated value: $850,000 to $1.4 million.

President Trump ended public funding for NPR and PBS in May, calling coverage "biased and partisan." Hundreds of stations sought alternative funding. Some launched emergency drives while others cut programs or laid off workers.

All net proceeds benefit American Public Television and PBS stations nationwide. "I can't think of a more meaningful way to share his works than supporting public television's mission," Bob Ross Inc. president Joan Kowalski said.

Video: Despite the volume, it’s incredibly hard to find Bob Ross originals.

▲ Gold soars past $4,000 per ounce for first time, up 54% amid global uncertainty

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More: Ray Dalio’s All Weather Portfolio list Gold as 7.5%

A 15-minute walk within 90 minutes after eating reduces blood glucose spikes 30% compared to pre-meal walks or sedentary behavior. Post-dinner walks are most effective for glucose control. This simple intervention improves insulin sensitivity, reduces Type 2 diabetes risk, and aids digestion—making it the easiest, zero-cost health optimization available.

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▲ Gold soars past $4,000 per ounce for first time, up 54% amid global uncertainty

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