Looking Ahead

Nov. 13

Power companies, the federal government, and state governments will conduct an emergency drill today to test how the nation might respond to a major failure in the country’s power grid. A utility industry group will conduct the two-day drill by simulating the response to mass power outages. Though no real power outages should occur, the drill has sparked a spate of conspiracy theories on the internet.

Nov. 15

For political animals, it’s never too early to think about the next presidential election. So Rep. Paul Ryan’s trip to Iowa today should raise eyebrows. The Wisconsin Republican and powerful Budget Committee chairman plans to headline a fundraiser for Iowa Gov. Terry Branstad, but Ryan could also be in the early primary state to test the waters for himself.

Nov. 17

The Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, will play host to the Formula One season’s penultimate race—the United States Grand Prix. Thanks to racing competitor NASCAR and the glut of other sports options, F1’s popularity in the United States has been small in recent years. But last year, the Austin race attracted more than 265,000 attendees.

Nov. 22

The exclusive Highland Park, Ill., home of former NBA superstar Michael Jordan will go up for auction today. Concierge Auctions will require a $250,000 deposit for all interested bidders. The 56,000-square-foot home rests on a 7.39-acre property outside of Chicago. With his children grown, Jordan says he plans to downsize and keep his 28,000-square-foot home in North Carolina.

Nov. 22

Dallas, slandered as the “City of Hate” after the 1963 assassination of President John F. Kennedy, will put its best foot forward when the nation remembers the 50th anniversary of that tragic November day. This year, event coordinators are making the public apply for tickets in an attempt to avoid a repeat of the 40th anniversary when conspiracy theorists with bullhorns packed Dealey Plaza.