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PlusAI testing shows self-driving trucks moving closer to reality

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Self-driving trucks are moving closer to reality. PlusAI released its first half 2025 performance results, showing how far the company has come toward its goal of launching factory-built autonomous trucks in 2027.

The numbers are clear. Safety case readiness reached 86 percent, with a goal of 100 percent by launch. Autonomous miles percentage climbed to 98 percent. Remote assistance free trips rose to 76 percent, with a target of more than 90 percent.

These metrics may sound technical, but they show that PlusAI is moving steadily toward putting driverless freight trucks on the road within two years.

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159-YEAR-OLD COMPANY EMBRACES DRIVERLESS TRUCKS

A semi truck on a road

PlusAI reports that its driverless trucks could be ready to hit the road within the next two years. (PlusAI)

Why PlusAI’s 2025 results matter for autonomous trucks

Even if you never step into a truck, these results affect your daily life. Every product you buy travels by truck at some point, whether it’s groceries, clothing or furniture. The way those trucks operate influences cost, availability and safety on the road.

The trucking industry faces three major challenges. There are not enough long-haul drivers to meet demand. Costs continue to rise due to labor shortages, tariffs and fuel prices. And safety is a concern because human drivers can get tired or distracted.

Autonomous trucks could help address each of these issues. PlusAI’s vehicles are already hauling freight on Texas highways today, and they are also undergoing road testing in Sweden. The company has already logged more than five million autonomous miles across the United States, Europe and Asia. That real-world experience fuels the AI system with the data it needs to improve.

LUCID JOINS TESLA AND GM WITH HANDS-FREE HIGHWAY DRIVING

A graph showing data for self driving truck readiness

The PlusAI Safety Case Framework. Data shows that self-driving trucks will roll out by 2027. (PlusAI)

How PlusAI plans to launch autonomous trucks by 2027

PlusAI has created a roadmap that sets it apart. Instead of retrofitting trucks with autonomous systems, it is working with major manufacturers like TRATON GROUP, Hyundai and IVECO to integrate the technology at the factory. This approach makes scaling production faster and ensures consistency.

The initial launch is planned for the Texas Triangle, a major freight corridor connecting Dallas, Houston, San Antonio and Austin. From there, PlusAI plans to expand into other U.S. routes and eventually Europe.

The company has also committed to publishing regular performance updates as it transitions to a public company. By sharing measurable results, PlusAI builds trust with regulators, the public, and businesses that may one day rely on its trucks to move goods.

We have a clear roadmap to the commercial launch of SuperDrive,” said David Liu, CEO and co-founder of PlusAI. “By publicly sharing these performance metrics, we are showing our commitment to safety and scalability while bringing partners, customers, and regulators along on this journey.

What’s next for PlusAI and driverless freight trucks?

PlusAI still has milestones to meet. Safety readiness must rise from 86 percent to 100 percent. Remote Assistance Free Trips must surpass 90 percent. These are ambitious goals, but the progress so far suggests the company can achieve them.

Fleet trials are scheduled to begin later this year, and PlusAI continues testing in both the United States and internationally. Each step adds to the case that driverless trucks will be ready for commercial launch in 2027.

AI-POWERED SELF-DRIVING SOFTWARE IS DISRUPTING THE TRUCKING INDUSTRY

American trucking industry

A drone view shows a transport truck entering the United States from Canada, at a Canada-U.S. border crossing in Blaine, Washington, April 2, 2025. (REUTERS/David Ryder)

What this means for you

As a shopper, autonomous trucks could mean faster and more affordable deliveries. As a driver, you may soon share highways with self-driving freight haulers. As a business owner, this technology could reduce logistics costs and ease the impact of driver shortages.

The bigger picture is that autonomous trucks are moving from testing to real use. They are no longer limited to pilot projects. You may see them alongside you on the road sooner than expected.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

Transportation is changing quickly. Just as ride-sharing apps transformed how people travel within cities, autonomous trucks may soon reshape how goods move across the country. The difference is that this shift is approaching within just a few years. The progress PlusAI reports today offers a glimpse of that future. If the company continues on this track, driverless trucks could become a normal part of daily life by the end of the decade.

Would you feel comfortable seeing an 18-wheeler drive itself on the highway next to your car? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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‘Meet the American’ season 2 features Nashville’s Grand Ole Opry and its origin story

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Fox Nation’s “Meet the American” has returned for Season 2, with “America’s Newsroom” co-anchor Bill Hemmer showcasing stories that are part of what makes America great.

Each episode highlights the individuals whose ideas, perseverance or innovations have left an enduring imprint on American culture — with a full episode in the new season spotlighting the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee. 

Fox News’ Hemmer recounts the remarkable story of George D. Hay, who is credited with founding the musical treasure.

‘MEET THE AMERICAN’ VETERAN WHO CREATED PICKLEBALL AND FIND OUT HOW HE DID IT

With upstart radio station WSM going live for the first time in Oct. 1925, the program originally called “WSM’s Barn Dance” also launched at that time. 

Prominent announcer and program director, George D. Hay, launched the show with Uncle Jimmy Thompson, a 77-year-old fiddle player. 

Fox Nation’s “Meet the American” season 2 features the Grand Ole Opry’s origins and founder George D. Hay’s impact on country music. (Bob Grannis/Getty Images)

Hay, an Indiana native, served in the U.S. Army during World War I before moving to Tennessee, according to the George D. Hay Society.

He became known as the “Solemn Old Judge” — a journalistic alter-ego he adopted while he was still a print reporter in im Mephcovering local courts. 

To this day, he is credited with the creation of the Grand Ole Opry nearly 100 years ago, according to the Opry’s website.

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The Opry grew so popular that the broadcast was moved to the Ryman Auditorium in downtown Nashville in 1943. The Opry then built its own theater and country-music campus, Opryland, in 1974, about 10 miles east of the city center. 

The name of the now-iconic brand came from Hay in a burst of inspiration. 

Ret. Army Lt. Gen. Keith Huber speaks at the Grand Ole Opry

The Grand Ole Opry stage is shown above. Today, it has a seating capacity of nearly 4,400 people.  (Angelica Stabile/Fox News Digital)

“For the past hour, we have been listening to the music taken largely from the Grand Opera, but from now on we will present the Grand Ole Opry,” Hay declared in Dec. 1927.

The name stuck — and went on to become an everlasting program, a live performance, a location and a brand. 

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Hay is credited with launching the careers of such country icons as Hank Williams, Loretta Lynn, Patsy Cline, George Jones and more, cementing the Opry as pivotal to country music.

Home to country legends and rising stars, the Opry now has a seating capacity of nearly 4,400, with over 30 sections.

grand ole opry fox nation special

Fox Nation’s “Meet the American” season 2 spotlights the Grand Ole Opry, created by George D. Hay, and its role in launching country music legends. Above, Dolly Parton on stage at the Opry.  (Tony R. Phipps/Getty Images)

The Opry in all its forms is still thriving today. 

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The Opry is the longest-running radio broadcast on the planet, according to Guinness World Records.

Fox News Digital’s Taylor Penley contributed to this report.

Sheep replace gas-powered mowers at solar farms to reduce emissions

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Forget roaring lawnmowers and fuel-guzzling tractors. Today’s solar companies are turning to flocks of sheep to trim grass and control weeds under solar panels. These eco-friendly grazers easily navigate narrow panel rows, cutting maintenance costs and carbon emissions at the same time. In fact, using sheep instead of gas-powered mowing crews can reduce upkeep expenses by up to 20 percent.

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WHY AI IS CAUSING SUMMER ELECTRICITY BILLS TO SOAR

Why solar grazing with sheep cuts costs and emissions

Sheep fit neatly between solar arrays, reaching into nooks that mechanical gear can’t. They chew rain or shine. And since sheep run on grass, not gas, their grazing helps reduce carbon emissions. Using these natural lawnmowers better aligns with solar’s green mission goals. Developers like SB Energy in Texas now rely on herds of around 3,000 sheep to cover thousands of acres, benefiting both their bottom line and the planet.

WHY YOU SHOULD THINK TWICE BEFORE JOINING A POWER SAVER PROGRAM

Sheep grazing near Texas solar panels

Sheep graze near solar panels in Haskell, Texas, Dec. 2, 2024.  (REUTERS/Annie Rice)

How agrivoltaics turns sheep and solar panels into profits

This isn’t your average landscaping story. There’s even a fancy word for it: agrivolatics, or the practice of combining solar energy production with agriculture.
Farmers who jump on board aren’t just maintaining the lawn; they’re opening up multiple revenue streams. First, ranchers can lease land to solar companies, sign grazing contracts, while still earning from traditional farm products like wool and lamb.

Chad Raines is a rancher from Texas. He decided to trade in cotton farming for sheep grazing on solar land. That move has paid off. Last year, he brought in around $300,000. If he had stuck with cotton, he estimates he would’ve lost about $200,000 instead. That’s a huge swing, and it’s a real-world example of how solar grazing is helping revive a sheep industry that had been stuck in neutral for decades.

How sheep improve soil health and boost biodiversity at solar farms

Letting sheep do the mowing isn’t just about saving time or money. It actually helps the land. As they move through the fields, sheep naturally break down plant material, aerate the soil and leave behind fertilizing manure. This leads to healthier dirt and better carbon capture.

Companies like Lightsource BP are already seeing those benefits. They manage over 14,000 sheep across solar farms that produce more than 3 gigawatts of power. These sites aren’t just power generators, they’re also habitats. Flowers that support bees and butterflies are planted among the panels, creating ideal conditions for pollinators. Some farms have even started producing honey thanks to the thriving bee population. 

GOOGLE TURNS CO2 INTO BATTERY POWER FOR CLEAN ENERGY

Sheep grazing near Texas solar panels

Sheep grazing cuts operations and maintenance costs for solar operators. (REUTERS/Annie Rice)

Major solar farms scale up sheep grazing across thousands of acres

This isn’t just happening on a small scale. Enel North America recently signed one of the biggest solar grazing deals in the country. They’re deploying over 6,000 sheep across eight large solar farms, covering more than 10,000 acres.

At some of those sites, the amount of organic matter in the soil has more than doubled. For solar operators, this approach just makes sense. It cuts operations and maintenance costs, strengthens environmental credibility and builds better relationships with nearby communities.

Investors are paying attention, too. In just two years, the number of solar grazing projects has skyrocketed, especially in places backed by heavy hitters like DE Shaw and Berkshire Hathaway.

Texas solar panel zone allows sheep to graze

Chad Raines opens the gate to a solar panel zone in Haskell, Texas, Dec. 2, 2024. This solar farm has six different solar panel zones on 1,800 acres of land.  (REUTERS/Annie Rice)

What solar grazing means for you

If you care about clean energy, sustainable farming or smart land use, solar grazing is worth watching. It shows how innovation doesn’t always require high-tech gadgets; sometimes, it just takes some sheep. For farmers and ranchers, this model opens the door to new income by partnering with solar companies. If you own land or work in agriculture, grazing contracts could provide a steady stream of revenue without giving up traditional operations.

For everyone else, this trend offers hope that renewable energy can coexist with rural livelihoods, boost biodiversity and fight climate change, all at once. As solar farms expand across the country, expect to see more flocks doing the work of machines, quietly transforming how we power the planet.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

Sheep-powered solar farms are transforming the way we manage clean energy sites. By replacing gas-powered machines with grazing animals, solar companies are cutting costs, reducing emissions and creating new income opportunities for farmers. This approach blends sustainability with practicality. It supports healthier soil, boosts biodiversity and strengthens rural economies, all while helping solar farms operate more efficiently. With growing investment and proven results, solar grazing is emerging as a smart, scalable solution. And as the industry evolves, don’t be surprised if the quiet hum of panels comes with the occasional baaa.

What other ways could we find to tie together the future of clean energy with sustainable and natural solutions like farm animals? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy could become the new ‘everything drug’

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GLP-1 agonists — including semaglutides like Ozempic and Wegovy and tirzepatides like Mounjaro and Zepbound — were originally intended to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity.

But in recent months, studies have shown that these popular medications can have numerous other health benefits.

Some have even claimed that GLP-1s could eventually become the new “everything drug.”

MEDITERRANEAN DIET PAIRED WITH OTHER LIFESTYLE CHANGES SLASHES DIABETES RISK

Dr. Angela Fitch, co-founder and chief medical officer of knownwell, a “weight-inclusive” healthcare company based in Boston, said she would caution against labeling any medication as an “everything drug,” but agrees that GLP-1s show promise.

“GLP-1s are currently approved for treating obesity, type 2 diabetes, secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease, metabolic associated fatty liver disease, chronic kidney disease in patients with diabetes and sleep apnea,” she told Fox News Digital. 

GLP-1 agonists — including semaglutides like Ozempic and Wegovy and tirzepatides like Mounjaro and Zepbound — were originally intended to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity. (iStock)

“Further research is necessary to determine their efficacy in treating other chronic conditions.”

However, the drugs have shown “notable promise” in areas such as addiction treatment and the improvement of neurological conditions like Alzheimer’s, Fitch said.

DNA TEST REVEALS WHICH CHILDREN ARE AT HIGHER RISK OF OBESITY IN ADULTHOOD

“They lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol and decrease visceral adiposity,” she said. “They also significantly improve patients’ quality of life. They have many clinical indications today and many more to come.”

Top benefits of GLP-1s

Fitch listed the following primary benefits of GLP-1 medications.

  • Facilitating effective fat loss and maintenance
  • Controlling blood sugar and preventing diabetes in patients at risk
  • Lowering blood pressure
  • Improving lipids (achieving a healthy blood lipid profile)
  • Reducing risk of heart disease and kidney disease

“These are not amenities. They are the holy grail of modern medicine.”

Dr. Brett Osborn, a Florida neurosurgeon and longevity expert, believes that GLP-1s are “here to stay.”

“These medications don’t just treat obesity — they’re already showing promise in everything from cardiovascular disease to neurodegenerative disease to addiction,” he told Fox News Digital. 

“I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: These are not amenities. They are the holy grail of modern medicine.”

Potential risks and drawbacks

The most common side effects of GLP-1 medications are gastrointestinal-related.

Those include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation and bloating, especially during the initial dose escalation period, according to Fitch. 

woman injecting weight loss drug in stomach

In recent months, studies have shown that medications like Ozempic and Wegovy could have numerous other health benefits. (iStock)

These symptoms often improve over time, but can be limiting for some patients,” she said. 

Other more serious, though rare, risks include pancreatitis, gallbladder disease and potential kidney injury — particularly if severe dehydration occurs due to vomiting, the expert cautioned.

“Not everyone tolerates them well, and we don’t have a complete handle yet on long-term side effects.”

Dr. Marc Siegel, Fox News senior medical analyst, has previously warned of GLP-1s’ side effects.

“Not everyone tolerates them well, and we don’t have a complete handle yet on long-term side effects,” he told Fox News Digital at the time.

“I certainly think they are useful — and can think of many situations where they decrease risks of heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancer as well as the need for bariatric surgery — but they are surely not one-size-fits-all and are mostly not first-line therapy.”

Are all GLP-1s created equal?

Not all GLP-1 receptor agonists are the same, Fitch cautioned. 

“While they all act on the same basic pathway, their efficacy, side effect profiles and cardiovascular benefits can vary significantly,” she told Fox News Digital. 

Close-up of Ozempic pens and person injecting needle in background

“These medications don’t just treat obesity — they’re already showing promise in everything from cardiovascular disease to neurodegenerative disease to addiction.” (iStock)

Semaglutide, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, is currently considered the most potent GLP-1 for both weight loss and glycemic control, Fitch said, with evidence for cardiovascular benefit in people with type 2 diabetes and obesity. 

Semaglutide was also just approved as a treatment for MASH (Metabolic dysfunction–Associated SteatoHepatitis, a serious type of fatty liver disease). 

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“Tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound) is a dual GIP/GLP-1 agonist and has shown even greater weight loss in trials with a similar side effect profile,” Fitch said.

“Tirzepatide is approved for sleep apnea and is undergoing clinical trials for other indications.”

Mounjaro

“Tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound) is a dual GIP/GLP-1 agonist and has shown even greater weight loss in trials with a similar side effect profile,” an expert said. (Getty Images)

Based on his own clinical experience, Osborn reiterated that in many cases, tirzepatide is a “superior agent.”

“It’s a dual incretin, meaning it targets two biochemical pathways,” he told Fox News Digital. “Not surprisingly, therefore, for patients who plateau on Wegovy, Zepbound often jump-starts weight loss.”

What to know before starting a GLP-1

GLP-1s are not a “magic bullet,” Fitch pointed out, noting that diet, exercise, sleep and behavioral changes are still essential to reaping the full benefits.

“Before taking GLP-1s, people should also know that side effects are common, and consistent clinical care and oversight is required to ensure safety and efficacy,” she advised. 

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“It is not something that people should just access via a form on the internet and treat themselves without good, comprehensive, longitudinal care.”

For chronic conditions like obesity or type 2 diabetes, Fitch recommends long-term or even indefinite use as the best approach. 

woman prepares smoothie with healthy foods

Diet, exercise, sleep and behavioral changes are essential to reaping the full benefits of GLP-1s, an expert said. (iStock)

“Lowering the dose may become a viable maintenance strategy once a healthy weight is reached, though this approach is still under study,” she said. 

“Patients should consult their doctor to determine what course of action is best according to their specific needs.”

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Anyone who is interested in starting a GLP-1 medication should consult with a doctor to discuss potential benefits and risks.

Rick Harrison of ‘Pawn Stars’ blames overpriced hotels and casinos for Vegas decline

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As Sin City grapples with a tourism decline, one Las Vegas icon is pointing fingers at overpriced casinos and hotels and the damage the COVID-19 virus left behind.

Rick Harrison of “Pawn Stars” told Fox News Digital in an interview he’s noticed fewer people on the Las Vegas Strip than in times past. (See the video at the top of this article.) 

“I think it’s the COVID hangover,” he said. “For a couple of years, everybody was just making crazy COVID money. The government was giving everybody money left and right. Everybody had tons of money to spend.”

VEGAS CASINO OWNER FIRES BACK AT ‘EXAGGERATED’ CLAIMS OF SIN CITY’S DEMISE

The influx of money, said Harrison, caused inflation in the area while also making it more likely tourists would visit Vegas.

“I also blame the casinos on the Strip a little bit,” he said. “I mean, they’ve gotten a little insane with their prices.”

Rick Harrison of “Pawn Stars,” shown above right, blames overpriced casinos and the COVID aftermath for Las Vegas’ current tourism decline. (Rick Harrison/History Channel)

Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) statistics show that only 3.1 million people visited the city in June, which was down 11.3% compared to last year.

“I’ve heard so many people complain,” said Harrison. “They go to a hotel, they go to check out. And there’s $500 in stupid fees on their bills — resort fees and parking fees and this fee and that fee.”

The hotel industry is feeling the burn of fewer visitors, with occupancy dropping 6.5% while average daily room rates have lowered to $163.64 — down 6.6%, according to the LVCVA.

LAS VEGAS CASINO CULTURE SUFFERS REJECTION BY GAMBLERS OF YOUNGER GENERATIONS

Harrison said it is “financial Darwinism,” sharing that casinos need to evolve and make their customers happy to stay afloat. 

While most tourist numbers are down citywide, Harrison said his business is doing better than last year with lots of traffic in his shop.

rick harrison las vegas casinos

Harrison told Fox News Digital why he thinks Las Vegas tourism is seeing a decline, citing casino and hotel fees. He offered a few solutions too.  (Fox News Digital)

He credited his long business tenure of 37 years and an attentive team that focuses on customers. 

“You have to evolve or die. You have to give your customers what they want and not p— your customers off,” he said. “Customers need be happy to be with you. And it’s just a general — it’s a good business plan.”

Harry Reid International Airport (HRIA) revealed that there were nearly 300,000 fewer passengers this July compared to last year — marking a 5.7% drop.

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Last month, 4,773,905 passengers went to Sin City, while in 2024 there were over five million who visited in the same period. 

Harrison noted that he sees casinos that cater to their customers surviving the decline by keeping a “loyal following.”

las vegas casinos low tourism

“I think trying to scrape every single penny you can out of a customer, eventually, is going to turn your customer off,” said Harrison. (iStock)

“I think trying to scrape every single penny you can out of a customer, eventually, is going to turn your customer off. I just think that the casinos on the Strip have to straighten out a little bit.”

Harrison said Las Vegas is still the epicenter of entertainment around the world — highlighting sporting events such as National Hockey League games, F1 racing, baseball and NASCAR –  all expected to draw tourists. 

“I’ve lived here almost my entire life. It’s the greatest city in the world,” said Harrison.

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“You just have amazing shows with $100-million-dollar sets. I mean, no one can replicate that. There is still tons of value in Las Vegas.”

People worrying about Vegas is nothing new, he said, as the city always comes out on top.

harry reid airport las vegas

Harry Reid International Airport revealed that there were nearly 300,000 fewer passengers this July compared to last year. (Chase Stevens/Las Vegas Review-Journal/Tribune News Service via Getty Images)

“Everyone said this town was going to fall when [the state of] New Jersey got gambling. And then when Mississippi got gambling, they said it was going to fall.” 

He noted other such projections that didn’t come to pass. 

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People said “it was going to be bad for Vegas,” he said. 

Yet “we will just keep on going.”

Sudan landslide kills at least 1,000 people in Central Darfur village

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A devastating landslide struck Tarasin Village in Sudan’s Central Darfur on Sunday, Aug. 31, killing at least 1,000 people, according to a rebel group controlling the area.

The Sudan Liberation Movement/Army (SLM-A) said the horrific incident was triggered by days of torrential rainfall in late August and has “completely leveled the village to the ground.”

“Initial information indicates the death of all village residents, estimated to be more than one thousand people. Only one person survived,” the Sudan Liberation Movement/Army said in a statement. 

FLOODS KILL AT LEAST 111 AS NORTHERN NIGERIA BATTLES CLIMATE CHANGE, DRY SPELLS AND HEAVY RAINFALL

Women gather along the side of a flooded street in Sudan’s capital Khartoum following heavy rain on August 27, 2025.  (Ebrahim Hamid / AFP)

The figures cannot be independently verified at this time due to restricted access to the conflict-hit region, but if confirmed it would rank among Sudan’s deadliest natural disasters in recent history.

Flood water inundates a main street

Flood water inundates a main street in Sudan’s capital Khartoum following heavy rain on August 27, 2025.  (EBRAHIM HAMID/AFP via Getty Images)

SUDANESE ARMY SURROUNDS KHARTOUM AIRPORT IN BATTLE FOR CAPITAL, MILITARY SOURCES SAY

Darfur’s governor, Minni Minnawi, called the landslide a “humanitarian tragedy.”

The group is calling for help from the U.N. and international aid agencies for assistance in recovering bodies and responding to the disaster.

Flood water inundates a main street

Flood water inundates a main street in Sudan’s capital Khartoum following heavy rain on August 27, 2025.  (EBRAHIM HAMID/AFP via Getty Images)

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According to earlier reports from the BBC, many residents from North Darfur state sought refuge in the area after the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces forced them out of their homes.

This is a developing report.

Belichick gets rude welcome to college football in UNC blowout loss

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Bill Belichick had a “welcome to college football” moment on Monday night, as his North Carolina Tar Heels were blown out by the TCU Horned Frogs, 48-14, to begin the 2025 college football season. 

It was a night filled with expectation, celebrity appearances and pure hype at Kenan Stadium, as Belichick’s first taste of being a college football head coach started on home turf in Chapel Hill. The Tar Heels were hoping to usher in a new era with a victory to not only notch another first under Belichick’s resume, but get the program heading in the right direction from the jump. 

The Horned Frogs had another thing in mind, though, as they were fazed by the screaming crowd of over 50,000, which included the likes of Randy Moss, Michael Jordan, Roy Williams, Lawrence Taylor and many more. 

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Head coach Bill Belichick of the North Carolina Tar Heels looks on from the sideline during the first half of the game against the TCU Horned Frogs at Kenan Stadium on Sept. 1, 2025 in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. (Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)

The Belichick era began with an impressive North Carolina opening-drive touchdown, as the Tar Heels went 83 yards down the field with Caleb Hood capping it with his first score of the season. 

But it was all TCU after that, scoring 41 unanswered points on their way to an easy victory. 

TOM BRADY DISHES ON THE ‘CHALLENGE’ FOR BILL BELICHICK IN 1ST SEASON AT NORTH CAROLINA

Horned Frogs quarterback Josh Hoover was dicing up the Tar Heels’ defense, and it started with a 27-yard strike to Jordan Dwyer, who was a favorite all night long in the pass game, for a touchdown that tied the game at seven apiece following the extra point. 

TCU got more physical on defense, especially at the line of scrimmage, which hindered what UNC wanted to do when they had possession. The Horned Frogs held them to three straight three-and-outs, while taking the lead with a field goal early in the second quarter. 

Josh Hoover makes pass for TCU

Josh Hoover #10 of the TCU Horned Frogs drops back to pass during the first half of the game against the North Carolina Tar Heels at Kenan Stadium on Sept. 1, 2025 in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. (Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)

North Carolina seemed to get some momentum back when Hoover’s pass was too high for his intended receiver, and the Tar Heels’ Kaleb Cost made an acrobatic interception to flip the field. 

But UNC quarterback Gio Lopez gave the ball right back to TCU, and it was in the worst way as veteran safety Bud Clark jumped a route and took the interception 25 yards to the house for a pick-six that made it 17-7. The Horned Frogs would end the half with a short field goal, taking a commanding 20-7 lead into the locker room as the crowd was stunned. 

That feeling wouldn’t end, though, as the very first play of the second half was a 75-yard touchdown run by Horned Frogs star running back Kevorian Barnes, who went untouched down the right sideline to break the game open. 

UNC was unable to come back at that point, as the Horned Frogs continued to run up the score with running back Trent Battle rushing for 28 yards to make it 34-7, and Lopez was sacked by Jonathan Bax, leading his Horned Frogs teammate Devean Deal to scoop up the fumbled football and run it back 37 yards for yet another touchdown. 

Bill Belichick looks on field during game against TCU

North Carolina Tar Heels head coach Bill Belichick on the sidelines in the first quarter at Kenan Stadium on Sept. 1, 2025. (Bob Donnan/Imagn Images)

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At that point, Belichick switched quarterbacks, going with Max Johnson, who led a touchdown drive late in the third quarter to add some points for the Tar Heels. But the game was out of reach, and it’s clear the Tar Heels have much to work on heading into next week. 

Meanwhile, Hoover showed out in front of many NFL scouts, going 27-of-36 for 284 yards with two touchdown passes and one interception thrown. Barnes had 11 carries for 113 yards, while Dwyer hauled in nine receptions for a whopping 136 yards to help TCU’s cause.

No one expected Belichick to immediately turn the program around and get them to compete for a national title, but this was a shocking result to be dominated at home to kick off his collegiate coaching career.  

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Jury duty scam calls surge as fraudsters pose as local officials, request money

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Scammers are constantly finding new ways to trick people. While older tactics like phishing emails and impersonating government agencies to steal credentials are becoming easier to spot, bad actors are now turning to more alarming methods. One of the latest involves impersonating local authorities. 

People have reported receiving phone calls claiming they missed jury duty and now face a warrant for their arrest. This kind of impersonation scam is harder to spot because it’s highly personalized, but that doesn’t mean you’re defenseless. Let’s break it down.

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Scammers impersonating local authorities are on the rise, telling victims they missed jury duty and must pay to avoid legal trouble. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

What jury duty scam victims need to know

Scammers posing as court officials are targeting individuals with false claims about missed jury duty, prompting warnings from law enforcement. The fraud typically begins with a call from a blocked or unknown number, alleging that the recipient has missed jury duty and is facing an arrest warrant. The scammers then demand payment, usually through wire transfers or gift cards.

A key warning sign is being asked to pay money to avoid arrest or legal trouble. It is important never to give money or personal information to unknown callers.

These scams often target older or more vulnerable individuals, although younger people have also reported close calls. In one example, a person received repeated calls from an unidentified number before answering. The caller, claiming to be from a local sheriff’s department and equipped with the individual’s full name and address, insisted they had failed to appear for jury duty and faced multiple citations.

HOW FAKE MICROSOFT ALERTS TRICK YOU INTO PHISHING SCAMS

man using laptop and talking on phone while in apartment

Victims can spot jury duty impersonation scams by verifying suspicious calls before taking action and reducing their digital footprint. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

How to spot jury duty impersonation scams

  • No jury duty arrest warrants: Missing jury duty doesn’t lead to criminal citations or warrants.
  • Blocked or spoofed numbers: Real law enforcement won’t hide their identity.
  • Unusual payment methods: No government agency will ask for gift cards or crypto.
  • Aggressive threats: Threats of arrest or contempt of court are a scare tactic.

Legitimate jury summonses are delivered by mail, not through threatening phone calls.

6 ways to protect yourself from jury duty scam calls

If you get a suspicious call about missed jury duty, don’t panic. Follow these steps to stay safe and protect your personal information.

1) Don’t trust calls from unknown numbers

This might sound obvious, but don’t trust any unknown caller, especially if they demand money. Legitimate authorities will never ask for payment over the phone, especially not through gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency. If someone threatens you with arrest or legal action unless you pay immediately, it’s almost certainly a scam. Hang up and call your local court or police department using an official number.

HOW TO HAND OFF DATA PRIVACY RESPONSIBILITIES FOR OLDER ADULTS TO A TRUSTED LOVED ONE 

2) Verify suspicious calls before taking action

If you receive a suspicious call, take a breath and fact-check. Court summonses are always delivered by mail, not over the phone. Even if the caller has personal information like your name or address, that doesn’t make them credible. Scammers often use leaked or publicly available data to appear convincing.

Be extra cautious, even if the scam comes through text messages or email. Do not click on any suspicious links, as they can install malware on your device and steal your personal data.

The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have strong antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe.

Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices at CyberGuy.com.

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3) Reduce your digital footprint to stop scammers

The truth is, your data is already out there, from old social media profiles to past breaches. That’s often how scammers get enough personal details to sound legitimate. Investing in a data removal service can help reduce your digital footprint by scrubbing your information from people-search sites and data brokers.

While no service can guarantee the complete removal of your data from the internet, a data removal service is really a smart choice. They aren’t cheap, and neither is your privacy. These services do all the work for you by actively monitoring and systematically erasing your personal information from hundreds of websites. It’s what gives me peace of mind and has proven to be the most effective way to erase your personal data from the internet. By limiting the information available, you reduce the risk of scammers cross-referencing data from breaches with information they might find on the dark web, making it harder for them to target you.

Check out my top picks for data removal services and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com.

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Victims of jury duty phone scams can block and report suspicious numbers to local law enforcement or fraud reporting agencies. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

4) Block and report scam numbers

If you receive a scam call, report it to local law enforcement or your country’s fraud reporting agency. After hanging up, block the number on your phone and report it to:

  • FTC (USA): reportfraud.ftc.gov
  • Local police or sheriff’s office
  • Your phone carrier’s scam call reporting option

Many carriers allow you to forward scam texts to 7726 (SPAM).

5) Use call screening or spam protection apps

Apps like Truecaller, Hiya, and built-in features like Google Call Screen or Silence Unknown Callers on iPhones can detect and block fake calls automatically.

Pro Tip: Enable your phone’s “silence unknown callers” feature for extra protection. 

6) Talk to vulnerable family members

Older adults are frequent targets. Sit down with your parents, grandparents, or neighbors to explain how these scams work and what to watch for. A simple heads-up could stop a costly mistake.

What this means for you

Scammers are getting bolder and more convincing, but you can stay a step ahead. Knowing the signs of a jury duty phone scam, using smart tools like antivirus and call blockers and limiting your digital footprint can dramatically reduce your risk. Empower yourself and your loved ones with this knowledge.

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Kurt’s key takeaway

Instead of relying on faceless phishing emails, scammers are now using hyper-personalized and emotionally charged phone calls. By impersonating local authorities and referencing civic duties like jury duty, they exploit both fear and a sense of responsibility. What makes this especially dangerous is how plausible it sounds, drawing on real processes that many people don’t fully understand.

Do you think law enforcement and government agencies are doing enough to educate the public about these scams? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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Elite American travelers lured to Middle East nation with new ‘golden residency’

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Countries across the globe are racing to attract foreign investors with “golden” visas.

Many wealthy Americans are seeking residences abroad for financial security and personal safety reasons. 

Oman has become the latest country to join the pricey trend, launching its “Golden Residency” program in exchange for foreigners investing $520,000 — or 200,000 Omani rials (OMR) — in property, bonds, companies or businesses that grow the workforce. 

FOREIGN TRAVELERS SOON TO PAY ‘VISA INTEGRITY FEE’ TO VISIT THE US COSTING $250

Officials announced the program on Sunday at the Sustainable Business Environment forum, reiterating their strategic push to deepen private sector growth, according to Gulf News.

Those who obtain the visa are also offered fast-track airport services and the option to own a property in areas not previously open to non-Omani ownership. 

The nation of Oman, in the Middle East, has launched a “golden” residency program requiring a $520,000 investment in property or businesses. (iStock)

“The Golden Residency is not merely a residence permit; it is Oman’s commitment to creating a balanced environment that combines opportunity, stability and quality of life,” said Nasima bint Yahya Al Balushi, Investors Services Center director general at the forum, Gulf News reported. 

Canada-based Mohamed Bennis, an associate vice president at Arton Capital, told Fox News Digital that many are realizing “true wealth” is measured by “freedom of movement.”

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“Many Americans are realizing that a second residency or citizenship is the ultimate insurance policy against uncertainty,” said Bennis.

“It provides them with almost unmatched mobility, flexibility and security in a world that is becoming increasingly unpredictable.”

rich americans golden visa

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is one country that is becoming increasingly popular for Americans seeking residency or citizenship through investment. (iStock)

He said that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is one country that is becoming increasingly popular for Americans seeking residency or citizenship through investment.

“The Middle East is no longer just a region for short-term postings or selective opportunities for the elite. With Oman now joining the movement, it shows that the region is ready and confident to become a mainstream destination for expatriates.” 

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“With a sizeable uptick in our requests from USA clients for the region, it was just a matter of time before Oman created its golden visa program.”

“[Golden visas] can open doors to privileges that money just can’t buy: freedom of movement, security for your family and access to opportunities around the world,” he said.

Luxury hotel in Dubai

The UAE has remained a top destination for American clients. Bennis said the emirates offer a “modern crossroads” between the East and the West that’s particularly attractive.  (Cedric Ribeiro/Getty Images for Atlantis The Royal)

“Whether for business, family or lifestyle, a second residency offers peace of mind and flexibility in an uncertain world,” he said. 

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“Oman’s addition doesn’t just broaden the competitive landscape; it underscores that the Gulf is embracing openness and long-term global integration.”

Blood pressure of older adults could be lowered by beetroot juice, study suggests

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Beetroot juice, which is rich in nitrates, has been linked to changing the community of bacteria living in the mouth.

Now, a new study has found that drinking this juice could reduce older adults’ blood pressure.

Researchers at the University of Exeter compared the response of both younger and older participants to the juice and published the study in Free Radical Biology and Medicine.

COMMON DAILY VITAMIN SHOWN TO SLOW AGING PROCESS OVER 4-YEAR PERIOD

Thirty-nine participants under age 30, plus 36 individuals in their 60s and 70s, were split into two separate two-week phases.

One group consumed nitrate-rich beetroot juice shots daily, while the other group — a placebo group — received a version without nitrates. Each group had a “wash-out period” between phases to reset their systems.

Research reveals dietary nitrates from beetroot juice could improve certain adults’ vascular health.  (iStock)

Researchers practiced bacterial gene sequencing to identify which microbes were present in the participants’ mouths before and after each treatment.

Older adults who drank nitrate-rich beetroot juice had fewer mouth bacteria called Prevotella, which is linked to inflammation, and more helpful bacteria like Neisseria.

“Foods that are high in dietary nitrates such as leafy greens, beets and lettuce can help lower blood pressure.”

Fox News senior medical analyst Dr. Marc Siegel told Fox News Digital that nitrates lead to lower blood pressure by improving flexibility, decreasing resistance in blood vessels and lowering inflammation. 

The patients started the study with higher blood pressure, which went down after the beetroot juice — but blood pressure didn’t change with those in the placebo group.

“We know that foods that are high in dietary nitrates such as leafy greens, beets and lettuce can help lower blood pressure,” said Siegel.

Older adults who drank nitrate-rich beetroot juice had fewer mouth bacteria called Prevotella, which is linked to inflammation, and more helpful bacteria like Neisseria.

Older adults who drank nitrate-rich beetroot juice had fewer mouth bacteria called Prevotella, which is linked to inflammation, and more helpful bacteria like Neisseria. (Natasha Breen/REDA&CO/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

He added, “Nitrates are converted to nitric oxide by your body. Nitric oxide is a key molecule in vascular health as it promotes the vessels to dilate and thus reduces blood pressure.”

Co-author Andy Jones, a professor at the University of Exeter, said in a press release that the study shows that “nitrate-rich foods alter the oral microbiome in a way that could result in less inflammation, as well as a lowering of blood pressure in older people.”

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Lee Beniston, an associate director of the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council, said the “research is a great example of how bioscience can help us better understand the complex links between diet, the microbiome and healthy aging.”

“By uncovering how dietary nitrate affects oral bacteria and blood pressure in older adults, the study opens up new opportunities for improving vascular health through nutrition,” Beniston added.

Group of seniors walking together outside and smiling.

“As we age, our levels of bioavailable nitric oxide lower, so it makes sense that we see more of a benefit in consuming dietary nitrates in older patients.”  (iStock)

Both researchers shared that more research is needed. 

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Siegel noted that “as we age, our levels of bioavailable nitric oxide lower, so it makes sense that we see more of a benefit in consuming dietary nitrates in older patients.” 

He said the study does support the well-established belief that a good diet, high in fresh fruits and vegetables, can help manage many chronic medical conditions.

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Anyone with high blood pressure or other medical conditions should check with doctors or medical experts before making dietary changes. The same applies to those taking medication.