Tesla’s electric Semi truck takes on diesel big rig

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March 8, 2024

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When you think of a tractor-trailer, you might picture a huge rig chugging down the highway with a cloud of diesel exhaust trailing behind.

But Tesla’s Semi is changing that story and rewriting the rules of the road.

It’s an electric truck that is revolutionizing the trucking industry and leaving its diesel rivals in the dust.

Tesla Semi on the road (Tesla)

The Tesla Semi by the numbers

The Tesla Semi is not your ordinary big rig. It is a beast that can outperform any diesel truck on the road. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 20 seconds, fully loaded, and maintain highway-level speeds even up steep grades.

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It can also travel up to approximately 500 miles on a single charge and recover up to 70% of range in 30 minutes using Tesla’s Semi Chargers. It runs on three independent motors on rear axles.

Tesla Semi being charged (Tesla)

MORE: THE BEST TRAVEL GEAR FOR 2024

Emissions and clean air

Now, let’s talk emissions. While diesel trucks consume more fuel, emit more pollutants and require more maintenance, the Tesla Semi has a smaller carbon footprint. It uses less than 2 kWh per mile and emits zero tailpipe emissions.

Also, picture this real life contrast. A diesel truck struggles up steep inclines like the Donner Pass in California, while the Tesla Semi climbs it effortlessly, leaving nothing but clean air in its wake.

Tesla Semi overtaking diesel truck on steep incline (@HinrichsZane)

MORE: BEST TRAVEL ADAPTERS OF 2024

How the Tesla Semi offers safety, comfort and savings

Safety, comfort and savings — these are the Tesla Semi’s calling cards. With advanced safety features, including precise motor and brake controls, drivers experience unparalleled stability in all conditions. While an all-electric architecture reduces both rollover risk and cabin intrusion in case of an accident.

Tesla Semi being charged (Tesla)

Also, a central seating position on the Tesla Semi gives the driver better visibility. Touchscreen displays are set on both sides of the steering wheel, with no other instrument panels. The tall ceiling allows the driver to completely stand up inside the cab.

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Inside the cab of Tesla Semi (Tesla)

MORE: ELECTRIC AIR TAXI AS QUIET AS A DISHWASHER POISED TO CHANGE AIR TRAVEL

The benefits of switching to electric vehicles for trucking

The real game-changer? The cost. Charging with electricity is 2.5 times cheaper per mile than refueling with diesel. Operators stand to save a staggering $200,000 within their first three years of ownership. And with remote diagnostics and over-the-air software updates, downtime at service centers becomes a thing of the past.

Tesla Semi parked at loading dock (Tesla)

MORE: WORLD’S FIRST ELECTRIC FLYING CRAFT SET FOR LIFTOFF

Can the Tesla Semi help the environment?

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, tractor-trailer trucks account for about 18% of U.S. vehicle emissions. By switching to electric trucks, the trucking industry can significantly reduce its greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to the fight against climate change. As more electric vehicles hit the road, the demand for fossil fuels will decrease and the transition to a clean-energy future will accelerate.

Man driving Tesla Semi (Tesla)

Kurt’s key takeaways

The Tesla Semi-Truck is definitely rewriting the script for trucking. It conquers hills like they’re nothing, leaving diesel trucks wheezing in its wake. But it’s more than speed — it’s efficiency. The Tesla Semi covers hundreds of miles on a single charge. And when it’s time to recharge, it’s a pit stop, not a marathon. No more grumbling at gas stations; just plug in and power up.

Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover .

What are some of the challenges or barriers that you think Tesla might face in convincing companies and drivers to change from diesel trucks to Tesla’s Semi-Trucks? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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To live longer, do these 5 things every day, according to a neurologist and aging expert

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March 8, 2024

FASTING-LIKE DIET COULD SLOW THE AGING PROCESS, STUDY SUGGESTS: ‘LIVING LONGER AND HEALTHIER’

To live longer, do these 5 things every day, according to a neurologist and aging expert

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While certain factors are out of our control, there are some things we can do to extend our lives.

“For the average individual, everyday behaviors under our own control have a greater impact on healthy longevity than genetics,” Dr. Gary Small, a memory, brain and aging expert at Hackensack Meridian Health in New Jersey, told Fox News Digital.

“Even people with a genetic predisposition to developing Alzheimer’s disease can stave off symptoms for years by living a healthy lifestyle,” he added.

Small, who is also the behavioral health physician-in-chief for Hackensack, shared the five most important behaviors to adopt in order to live a longer, healthier life.

Check out his tips.

A healthy diet can have a major impact on life expectancy by lowering the risk for heart disease, cancer and other age-related illnesses. (iStock)

No. 1: Stay positive

There is scientific evidence that keeping a positive outlook helps us live longer and healthier, Small noted.

“Optimists have fewer physical and emotional difficulties, experience less pain, enjoy higher energy levels and are generally happier and calmer in their lives,” he said.

NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION GUIDE: 5 STEPS TO A HEALTHIER 2024 FROM A LONGEVITY EXPERT

“Optimism also has been shown to boost the body’s immune system so that we can better fight infection.”

Research has shown that when people make a conscious effort to be more optimistic, it can actually transform their attitude, Small said.

“Expressing feelings of gratitude can increase levels of optimism,” he added.

No. 2: Get active

Numerous studies have linked regular physical activity to a longer life expectancy.

“Cardiovascular conditioning improves circulation, elevates endorphins and proteins that strengthen brain cellular communication, and boosts heart health,” Small said.

Numerous studies have linked regular physical activity to a longer life expectancy. (iStock)

“Many people find that it is difficult to get started, but once they do, they enjoy better energy, sleep and mood, and those benefits motivate them to continue their exercise routine for the long haul,” he went on.

Experts recommend a combination of strength training (lifting weights) and aerobic exercise.

“Everyday behaviors under our own control have a greater impact on healthy longevity than genetics.”

For those who are just starting an exercise program, it’s best to start out slow, set modest goals and gradually build stamina, the doctor said.

He recommended finding an exercise program that’s enjoyable, whether it’s jogging, cycling, swimming, yoga, spinning or pickleball.

No. 3: Eat well

A healthy diet can have a major impact on life expectancy by lowering the risk for heart disease, cancer and other age-related illnesses, according to Small.

“Obesity in mid-life increases the risk for dementia later in life, so portion control protects brain health,” he told Fox News Digital.

BLOOD TEST MAY PREDICT THE ORGANS IN THE BODY THAT ARE AGING FASTER THAN NORMAL, SAYS STANFORD STUDY

Omega-3 fats from fish and nuts also reduce heightened inflammation, which can damage the brain and heart, Small noted.

“Antioxidant fruits and vegetables reduce age-related oxidative stress, which can cause wear and tear on cells throughout the body,” he said.

The doctor also recommends minimizing the consumption of processed foods and refined sugars to reduce the risk of developing diabetes, which has been linked to higher chances of dementia.

No. 4: Manage stress

As chronic stress increases the risk for dementia and heart problems, Small recommends incorporating a stress reduction program into the daily routine.

Adopting a stress reduction program can reduce the risk for dementia and heart problems, the doctor said. (iStock)

“Meditation and relaxation exercises support healthy longevity,” he said.

“Just 10 minutes of daily meditation not only improves mood, it also boosts cognitive abilities.”

No. 5: Take care of your health

Common chronic illnesses like high blood pressure and cholesterol levels increase the risk for cognitive decline, heart disease and shorter life expectancy, Small warned.

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“These illnesses can be treated effectively with medications and healthy lifestyle habits, particularly exercise and a healthy diet,” he said.

Staying up to date with health screenings can also help increase longevity.

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews/health.

Some of the most common recommendations include mammograms for breast cancer, colonoscopies for colorectal cancer, skin cancer screenings, sleep health monitoring, cervical cancer screenings, eye exams and prostate checks for men.

Mike Johnson Had 1 Extremely Awkward Question For Kamala Harris

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March 8, 2024

Mike Johnson Had 1 Extremely Awkward Question For Kamala Harris

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) had an unusual question for Vice President Kamala Harris as he made “small talk” with her at President Joe Biden’s State of the Union address on Thursday night.

“I asked her if her parents had been alive, did they survive to see her serving as vice president, and she lamented that they had not,” he told Fox News host Sean Hannity.

Harris’ mother, cancer researcher Shyamala Gopalan, died in 2009. Her father, retired economics professor Donald Harris, is very much alive, although the vice president has said the two are not close.

Johnson noted that the two had a lot of time to chat as Biden frequently stopped to greet lawmakers as he made his way to the rostrum.

But his choice of question for that moment left many of his critics perplexed:

What not to ask on a first date

— Jason Solomon ⚡️ (@solomonster) March 8, 2024

Can Moscow Moses be any creepier?

— Art Candee 🍿🥤 (@ArtCandee) March 8, 2024

Virginia truck driver arrested for road rage shooting on Florida interstate

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March 8, 2024

‘HERO’ TEXAS TEEN DROVE FRIENDS TO SAFETY AFTER BEING SHOT IN HEART DURING ROAD-RAGE INCIDENT

Virginia truck driver arrested for road rage shooting on Florida interstate

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A truck driver from Virginia is behind bars in Florida after police say he fired a gun multiple times at another trucker while the two were driving on the interstate.

The Marion County Sheriff’s Office said Dylan Belleastin, 43, was arrested Wednesday and charged with shooting a missile into a vehicle, aggravated assault, criminal mischief and displaying a firearm during the commission of a felony.

The road rage shooting took place on Sunday in the southbound lanes of Interstate 75, the sheriff’s office said.

Virginia semi-truck driver Dylan Belleastin, 43, is behind bars in Florida after a road rage shooting that allegedly stemmed from him throwing a water bottle at another trucker. (Marion County Sheriff’s Office)

A Marion County deputy responded to a Love’s Travel Stop in Ocala after receiving a report of shots fired on I-75. The victim, who was only identified as another semi-truck driver, told authorities that the incident began when Belleastin pulled up beside him and threw a water bottle at his truck while they were driving.

The victim said he initially pulled over to confront Belleastin, but changed his mind and drove off.

Belleastin then allegedly followed the other driver and pulled up beside his truck again, which is when he fired a gun into the victim’s truck a few times.

Dashcam footage from Belleastin’s semi-truck cab allegedly shows him shooting a gun out the window at another trucker while driving. (Marion County Sheriff’s Office)

The victim said he hit the brakes in order to avoid being struck and fired his own gun in response “out of fear for his own life,” according to the sheriff’s office.

CELL PHONE VIDEO SHOWS MOMENT FLORIDA TOUR BOAT CARRYING PASSENGERS COLLIDED WITH VESSEL

Belleastin allegedly drove to the Love’s Travel Stop the victim stopped at before ultimately continuing his journey down I-75.

The road rage shooting took place on Sunday, March 3, in the southbound lanes of Interstate 75 in Ocala, Florida, the sheriff’s office said. (myLoupe/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

While investigating the incident, a Marion County deputy obtained information that allowed him to identify the suspect as Belleastin. The deputy was also able to access the dash camera footage showing the inside of Belleastin’s cab.

In the video, Belleastin can be seen shooting a gun out the window of his cab two separate times while driving. The sheriff’s office said Belleastin also pointed a second handgun at the victim, but did not fire it.

He was arrested by Marion County deputies and U.S. Marshals on Wednesday in Ocala.

Belleastin remains in the Marion County Jail without bond.

Mexico arrests 2 taxi drivers who beat, kicked German tourists at a club in Playa del Carmen

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March 8, 2024

34 POLICE OFFICERS HAVE BEEN KILLED IN 3 YEARS IN THIS DANGEROUS MEXICAN CITY, DATA SHOWS

Mexico arrests 2 taxi drivers who beat, kicked German tourists at a club in Playa del Carmen

MEXICO CITY (AP) — Prosecutors in Mexico said Thursday they have arrested two taxi drivers who participated in the beating of two German tourists outside a club in the Caribbean coast resort of Playa del Carmen.

Prosecutors in coastal state of Quintana Roo said the two drivers were arrested on charges of drug possession, after they were found to be carrying marijuana and cocaine in their taxis. The cab drivers were not immediately charged in relation to the beating last week.

A video of the attack was posted on social media, showing a group of about a half dozen men in the white-shirt, dark-pants uniforms worn by local cab drivers beating and kicking a couple who are on the ground.

The woman can be seen trying to protect the man from the rain of blows by covering him with her body as both lie on the street. But the cabbies continued to beat the couple with what appeared to be boards or signs, and kicked the man.

Authorities offered no further information on the tourists, or whether they were injured in the night-time attack. But they did say the permits for the two suspects’ taxicabs would be cancelled.

Mexicos taxi industry has been plagued by violence in resort communities. (Fox News)

It is not the first time that cab drivers in Playa del Carmen and Cancun, to the north, have been involved in attacks.

In 2023, there were a number of violent confrontations between medallion taxi drivers and people working for ride-hailing apps. High taxi fares have long been a subject of debate in Cancun.

Nor is it the first time there have been links between taxi drivers and drugs in the area.

In January, authorities acknowledged that criminal gangs are trying to extort ‘protection’ payments from taxi drivers in Cancun. Five suspects were arrested for demanding about $12 per week from 200 unionized taxi drivers to allow them to work. In the past, such demands have usually been accompanied by threats to shoot drivers and burn taxis that fail to pay.

The five men were arrested aboard two taxis, and were found with marijuana and meth in their possession. They have been ordered held pending trial on extortion charges.

Violence in the area’s resorts have sometime affected tourists.

In February, prosecutors said an American woman and a man from Belize were shot to death in what appears to have been a dispute between drug dealers at a beach club in the resort city of Tulum, south of Playa del Carmen.

Prosecutors stressed the American woman had no connection to an alleged drug dealer also killed in the shooting Friday night. The woman appeared to have simply been caught in the crossfire.

Foreign tourists have been killed in the past after getting caught in drug gang shootouts in the once-tranquil beach resort.

In 2021 in Tulum, two tourists — one German and a California travel blogger born in India — were killed while eating at a restaurant. They apparently were caught in the crossfire of a gunfight between rival drug dealers.

I’m giving your computer a quick speed upgrade

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March 7, 2024

1-MINUTE TECH CHANGES FOR MORE PRIVACY

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A new computer is shiny and fresh — no folders full of random junk, crud in the keyboard or lagging when you try to watch a video or join a meeting.

Then life, and time, happens, and things slow down. Before you toss your computer into the junk pile, consider a little TLC. Your wallet will thank you.

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Your browser is one of the biggest culprits

Tab hoarders, I’m talking to you. Once you’re done with an article, site, or whatever, remove it.

Pro tip: Press Ctrl + W on Windows or Cmd + W on Mac to close the tab you’re in. If you’re 25 tabs in, hold down Ctrl (Windows) or Cmd (Mac) and click on multiple tabs to select them all at once. Now hit Ctrl + W or Cmd + W to make them all vanish.

Now let’s look into settings for a little extra help. Hardware acceleration is the term for speeding up your browser using the hardware available — memory, processor and whatever graphics card you’ve installed. Most browsers offer this helpful little tweak.

In Chrome’s settings, it’s under the System tab.
In Microsoft Edge’s settings, it’s under System and Performance.
In Firefox, you’ll find it on the General tab. It’s called “recommended performance settings” here.

If you use Safari on a Mac, Apple’s already switched on hardware acceleration.

Clear the clutter

I’m willing to bet your computer is full of files you don’t need anymore. They’re eating up space, which slows down almost everything you do. Here’s a simple place to start.

Empty the Recycle Bin. When you delete a file, it goes to the Recycle Bin, waiting for you to take more permanent action. To get them out of purgatory, right-click on your Recycle Bin (Trash can on a Mac) and delete those files.
Clear temporary files. These are created to help apps or processes go off without a hitch — or to help with transferring data and other processes. Over time, they take up a lot of space.
On Windows: Open your C: drive and select the Windows folder, then Temp (C:\Windows\Temp). Press Ctrl + A to select everything, then hit Delete.
On a Mac, go to Finder, then Go > Go to Folder. You should see ~/Library/Caches/. All temporary files will open in a new window. Delete them, then empty your trash can.

Be picky about what gets priority

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A classic problem with older computers: The startup process takes forever. We can’t fix all of that in one go, but adjusting what starts each time you boot up does make a difference.

(Photo by EMMANUEL DUNAND/AFP via Getty Images)

Here’s how to see which apps load during Windows startup:

Click on the Start menu.
Select Settings (cog icon) and click on Apps.
In the left menu, click on Startup. It should be the last option.

The Startup panel displays all the apps installed on your machine. If Windows has measured the impact of that app on your PC, you will see a rating next to it. Options include No impact, Low impact, Medium impact, and High impact.

An app with a high impact can slow down your startup time. Go through the list and determine which apps you don’t need immediately after startup. Toggle each slider next to the app to turn it on or off.

AI’S BIGGEST IMPACT: WHICH SECTORS HAVE BENEFITED MOST AS JOB SECURITY REMAINS A VITAL CONCERN

Pro tip: Filter apps by impact.

On a Mac:

Click on the Apple menu and navigate to System Preferences.
Click on Users & Groups.
Select your User Account, then click Login Items on the top right.

Here, you’ll see a list of the applications that open automatically when you log in.

To prevent an app from running automatically, click Remove a login item. Then select the app’s name you want to block and click the Remove button below the list. You can use the checkbox to hide items you want to launch. To add a new item, hit the plus symbol under the list and find it on your computer.

Keep your tech-know going

My popular podcast is called “Kim Komando Today.” It’s a solid 30 minutes of tech news, tips, and callers with tech questions like you from all over the country. Search for it wherever you get your podcasts. For your convenience, hit the link below for a recent episode.

PODCAST PICK: Spy satellites are watching you

Yep, they’re not just looking at the military — we’ve got the details. Plus, a massive cellular outage across the U.S., Google pauses Gemini’s image generator and an Oklahoma man hacks a government auction website.

Check out my podcast “Kim Komando Today” on Apple, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player.

Listen to the podcast here or wherever you get your podcasts. Just search for my last name, “Komando.”

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‘Parrot fever’ outbreaks cause 5 deaths in Europe, sparking warnings

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March 7, 2024

BUBONIC PLAGUE IN THE US: DO YOU NEED TO WORRY ABOUT CATCHING THE RODENT-BORNE DISEASE?

‘Parrot fever’ outbreaks cause 5 deaths in Europe, sparking warnings

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A bacterial infection known as parrot fever has killed five people in Europe, according to an announcement from the World Health Organization (WHO).

The illness is caused by a bacteria called Chlamydia psittaci (C. psittaci), which often originates from birds, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

An increase in cases was reported by Austria, Denmark, Germany, Sweden and The Netherlands, starting in late 2023 and continuing into 2024.

Five deaths have been reported.

“Exposure to wild and/or domestic birds was reported in most of the cases,” WHO wrote in the announcement.

A bacterial infection known as parrot fever has killed five people in Europe, according to an announcement from the World Health Organization. (iStock)

“Human infections occur mainly through contact with secretions from infected birds and are mostly associated with those who work with pet birds, poultry workers, veterinarians, pet bird owners and gardeners in areas where C. psittaci is epizootic in the native bird population.”

The countries are investigating exposures in the cases and analyzing samples from wild birds that were originally obtained for avian influenza testing.

‘ARCTIC ZOMBIE VIRUSES’ COULD BE RELEASED BY CLIMATE CHANGE FROM THAWING PERMAFROST, SOME SCIENTISTS CLAIM

“The World Health Organization continues to monitor the situation and, based on the available information, assesses the risk posed by this event as low,” the statement said.

The condition is rare in the U.S., only affecting about 10 people per year, according to Dr. Marc Siegel, clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center and a Fox News medical contributor.

How is this illness spread?

“Parrot fever can easily spread among birds when they are in close contact or confined in small spaces,” Donal Bisanzio, PhD, a senior epidemiologist with RTI International, a research institute in North Carolina, told Fox News Digital.

While not all infected birds will show symptoms, most will have some behavioral changes.

Those at highest risk for parrot fever include people who own birds or work closely with bird pets. (iStock)

“Birds affected by parrot fever will often have reduced appetite, lethargy, weight loss, diarrhea (usually with yellowish droppings), ocular discharge and breathing issues,” said Bisanzio.

“Parrot fever is also a zoonosis, meaning it can be transmitted to humans by infected birds,” he added.

Most people are exposed by breathing in airborne dust particles from infected birds’ droppings and respiratory secretions, which contain the bacteria.

Direct contact with birds can also transmit the infection.

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Those at highest risk include people who own birds or work closely with pet birds, such as pet shop employees, poultry farm workers or veterinarians, according to Bisanzio.

“Humans can be exposed to the bacterium causing the disease by handling infected birds or cleaning their cages,” he said.

Pet owners should always have newly acquired birds or birds showing symptoms of the disease examined by veterinarians specializing in bird health, the expert recommended.

Those at highest risk for parrot fever include people who own birds or work closely with pet birds, such as pet shop employees, poultry farm workers or veterinarians, according to an expert. (iStock)

Droppings left on bird feeders could also be a potential source of exposure.

“People should be careful when cleaning and replenishing bird feeders in areas affected by the outbreaks,” Bisanzio said.

The bacteria has not been found to spread through cooking or consumption of poultry.

Human outbreak risk is low, experts say

Although C. psittaci has been found in other small mammals — including dogs, cats, horses and reptiles — birds are most likely to transmit the bacteria to humans.

“It is not easily transferable from human to human, so it will not cause a large outbreak and is dependent on exposure to birds that have it,” Siegel told Fox News Digital.

“A significant portion of reported cases have required hospitalization due to pneumonia symptoms.”

Given the rarity of human-to-human transmission, Bisanzio said the disease typically leads to small, localized outbreaks in humans, often associated with exposure to pet or wild birds.

“Many cases have reported contact with wild birds, which suggests a potential outbreak of parrot fever in the wild bird population in the affected areas,” he said.

In the current European outbreaks, Bisanzio noted that more information is needed to better understand the source of exposure.

People infected by C. psittaci usually exhibit flu-like symptoms, including fever, headache, diarrhea, cough, muscle pain and fatigue. (iStock)

“Countries where outbreaks have been reported, as well as their neighboring countries, should enhance surveillance of both wild birds and pet birds that may come into contact with wild birds,” he said.

“Physicians practicing in outbreak areas and regions at high risk of transmission should be made aware of the potential exposure risk for individuals and encouraged to test those presenting symptoms that could be associated with parrot diseases.”

Symptoms, diagnosis and treatment

People infected by C. psittaci usually exhibit flu-like symptoms, including fever, headache, diarrhea, cough, muscle pain and fatigue, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Symptoms usually begin within five to 14 days after exposure.

If left untreated, the disease can progress to pneumonia.

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“Since Dec. 2013, European countries such as Denmark and the Netherlands have reported an increased number of human cases, some of which have been fatal, prompting concern among public health authorities in Europe,” said Bisanzio.

“A significant portion of reported cases have required hospitalization due to pneumonia symptoms.”

Parrot fever can be diagnosed by collecting phlegm, blood or nose and/or throat cultures.

Pet owners should always have newly acquired birds or birds showing symptoms of the disease examined by veterinarians specializing in bird health, an expert recommended. (iStock)

After diagnosis, antibiotics can be prescribed to treat the infection and alleviate symptoms, per the CDC.

Most people recover fully, but in rare cases the infection can cause complications including pneumonia, inflammation of the heart valves, hepatitis and neurologic problems.

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health.

With antibiotics, less than one in every 100 cases is fatal.

People who have been in contact with wild or pet birds and are experiencing symptoms of parrot fever should see a doctor for evaluation and treatment, experts advise.

Stream more, pay less by lowering your monthly streaming costs

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March 7, 2024

CLICK TO GET KURT’S FREE CYBERGUY NEWSLETTER WITH SECURITY ALERTS, QUICK VIDEO TIPS, TECH REVIEWS AND EASY HOW-TO’S TO MAKE YOU SMARTER

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Gone are the days of boundless free trials and ad-free subscriptions for every tier of subscription memberships.

It seems now that every year our favorite subscription services are threatening to increase membership plan prices or strip away benefits previously provided based on your membership tier. Streamers have claimed to be struggling with costs as well as increasing their subscriber base.

Despite people abandoning costly cable bundles in exchange for cheaper streaming services, now those costlier monthly subscription services are really adding up.

It pays to take a good look at which services you’re subscribed to already, ways you can stop overpaying and a clear look at the different plans and how they measure up against one another. Let’s check to see which services have gone up and which ones are worth sticking with.

1 Stream more and pay less by lowering your monthly streaming costs

Streaming on a computer (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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Ways to avoid overpaying for streaming services

According to Nielsen, “Americans streamed 21 million years’ worth of content [in 2023]”, which is a 21% increase from 2022. Add up all of your monthly streaming bills, and you are likely spending more than you are aware of.

Ninety-nine percent of U.S. households are subscribed to ONE or more streaming services. On average, Americans are spending around $46 per month on streaming services. Others are paying more and sometimes don’t know it. There is an easy way to get a handle on out-of-control spending on streaming.

Couple looking at their streaming bill (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

MORE: HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF FROM STREAMING HACKS

Tip 1 – Check for hidden subscription charges

Audit your credit card bill to discover recurring streaming charges. While looking at your bill online, sort by name over a number of months to help the recurring charges stand out. Then check your app store settings for subscriptions you may not be using any longer but are still paying for each month.

How to check iPhone subscriptions

To check recurring app subscriptions on iPhone, start by tapping Settings > tap your name > and tap Subscriptions

How to check Android subscriptions

Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer.

To check recurring app subscriptions on Android, Settings > Google > Manage your Google Account > Payments & Subscriptions > Manage purchases, Manage subscriptions, or Manage reservations

How to check Amazon subscriptions

To check recurring subscriptions on Amazon on your smartphone, click your account settings tab after logging into Amazon > then tap Memberships and Subscriptions to see what recurring services are subscribed to.

MORE: TIPS TO FOLLOW FROM ONE INCREDIBLY COSTLY CONVERSATION WITH CYBERCROOKS

Tip 2 – Change to a cheaper tier

Over the past year, Netflix just started offering advertising-supported subscriptions at a reduced monthly rate of $6.99 (vs. the ad-free standard tier, which starts at $15.49). Disney Plus costs $7.99 a month for ad-supported streaming (vs $13.99 a month for ad-free playback).

Tip 3 – Start and stop subscriptions

Because most streaming services are month-to-month and offer the ability to cancel at any time, there is no reason not to start and stop your subscription.

Tip 4 – Split and share subscriptions

Most streaming services offer the ability to now add users to subscription plans. When done correctly and with the right people, splitting a subscription can save you money.

Amazon Prime – $139 a year or $14.99 a month subscription, which includes Prime Video; can be shared by two adults at separate addresses

Apple TV – offers various tiers:

(1) If you buy an Apple device, Apple TV+ is included free for three months.
(2) A monthly subscription is just $9.99 per month after a free seven-day trial.
(3) Apple TV+ is included in Apple One, which bundles up to five other Apple services into a single monthly subscription. Apple One plans start at $19.95 per month. You can choose a more premium tier, such as ‘Family’ ($25.95/month) or ‘Premier’ ($37.95/month), which allows you to share an account with up to five people.
(4) The Apple Music Student Plan comes with a free subscription to Apple TV+.
While some services let you share with friends and family who reside outside your home address, other streaming companies, including Disney+, Hulu, Paramount+, Netflix, and Max, require those who share the same plan to live under the same roof.

Netflix is starting to check subscriber locations in some Latin American countries that could come to the U.S. in the future to enforce shared accounts at different addresses. Netflix started to enforce fees for subscribers sharing the same account but who do not reside in the same address. Netflix, however, does now have subscription levels where you can add users who can sign in with their own username and password, so the account owner doesn’t have to share the master username and password with others. Share the account, not your information.

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Couple streaming movie on their laptop (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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Tip 5 – Bundle and save

Some streaming services like Disney Plus allow you to bundle multiple platforms to save you money. For instance, if you pay for the Disney Bundle Duo Basic for $9.99/month, you get Disney Plus (with ads) and Hulu (with Ads). Separately, each of those subscription levels would cost $7.99/month. That means a saving of $5.99 a month. So, double check to see if your favorite streaming platforms offer similar bundles for cost savings.

Tip 6 – Purchase the annual subscription

While it sounds counterintuitive, if you know you’ll keep watching a platform for a whole year, it may save you money in the long run to buy the whole year upfront. For instance, Disney Plus allows you to purchase a whole year’s subscription to the Premium tier for $139.99, which breaks down to $11.66/month or a savings of $27.89 (or two months free) compared to the monthly subscription of $13.99.

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Tip 7 – Free streaming services

If you choose not to purchase a streaming service, there are a bunch of free TV shows and movies available on a variety of platforms. Tubi from Fox Entertainment, Amazon’s Freevee, PlutoTV, and Roku Channel are free channels to watch with ads. Be sure to check out our picks for the best sites to stream free movies, TV shows, and live news in 2024.

Some ad-free streaming services like Hoopla and Kanopy let you watch for free with an active library card membership.

Couple streaming shows and movies (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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Top streamer subscription cost

In an effort to help you get a bird’s eye view of how much streaming services cost, below is a breakdown of the top streamers and their cost at the time of publishing: The streaming services market is very competitive, with different platforms offering various plans and prices.

Among the major players, Paramount has the cheapest monthly plan with ads, at $5.99, followed by Hulu at $7.99.
Netflix, Amazon, AppleTV, and Max all have plans without ads, ranging from $9.99 to $22.99 per month.
YouTube has three plans, with the individual one costing $13.99 per month.
The yearly plans are usually cheaper than paying monthly, except for Netflix and Hulu, which do not offer yearly plans.
The most expensive yearly plan is the Ultimate Ad-Free plan from Max, at $199.99.
Disney+ has two plans, one with ads and one without. The Disney+ Basic plan costs $7.99 per month, while the Disney+ Premium plan costs $13.99 per month or $139.99 per year.

Kurt’s key takeaways

Though streaming services are adapting to economic challenges by passing along the burden to the consumer by increasing subscription costs or eliminating some benefits at the base subscription level, these services aren’t going anywhere and are a staple of most American lives. Having good awareness, however, of what you are subscribing to and adopting a savvy strategy could still have you coming up on top.

Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover .

Has the rising cost of streaming services changed your viewing habits? Are you planning on incorporating any of these cost-saving strategies? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

How to type faster, easier with 1 hand on your iPhone

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March 7, 2024

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Typing with one hand can be a real challenge.

Whether you’re juggling a coffee cup, holding onto a subway pole or carrying a shopping bag full of groceries, we’ve all been there.

However, did you know that your trusty iPhone has a secret keyboard trick that makes one-handed texting a breeze?

Man typing with one hand on iPhone (Apple)

The problem: Expansive screens

Remember the days when cellphones were compact enough to fit in the palm of your hand? Those tiny devices were perfect for quick texts. But as technology evolved, so did our expectations. Today’s iPhones have large screens, although navigating these expansive screens can feel like trying to play piano with boxing gloves on.

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The solution: The one-handed keyboard trick

Apple has a clever solution tucked away in your iPhone’s message app. By enabling the one-handed keyboard, you can effortlessly type messages using just a single hand. Let’s unlock this feature step by step:

Open the Messages app on your iPhone
Tap the new conversation button
Then tap and hold the emoji icon (the smiling face) at the bottom left of the screen

Steps to type a message using just a single hand (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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A menu will pop up, revealing three keyboard icons. Choose Your Side:
Left-handed typing: Tap the keyboard icon on the left. Your keyboard will compress itself toward the left side of the screen, creating a smaller layout perfect for left-handed users.

Right-handed typing: Opt for the keyboard icon on the right. It’ll shift the keyboard toward the right side of the screen, catering to your right-handed needs.

Revert to the standard keyboard layout: Simply press the arrow icon in the empty space. Your keyboard will return to its original position. Or you can press the keyboard icon in the middle and your keyboard will return to its original orientation.
Left-handed typing: Tap the keyboard icon on the left. Your keyboard will compress itself toward the left side of the screen, creating a smaller layout perfect for left-handed users.
Right-handed typing: Opt for the keyboard icon on the right. It’ll shift the keyboard toward the right side of the screen, catering to your right-handed needs.
Revert to the standard keyboard layout: Simply press the arrow icon in the empty space. Your keyboard will return to its original position. Or you can press the keyboard icon in the middle and your keyboard will return to its original orientation.

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Steps to type a message using just a single hand (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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Customizing your default keyboard

Want to set your default keyboard for all apps? Follow these additional steps:

Open the Settings app on your iPhone
Scroll down and tap General
Select Keyboard
Tap One-Handed Keyboard
Choose either Left-Handed or Right-Handed based on your preference. Your keyboard will now maintain this layout across all apps.
Click the left arrow in the upper left and your change will be saved.

Steps to customize your default keyboard (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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Kurt’s key takeaways

Typing with one hand on your iPhone doesn’t have to be a struggle. With the one-handed keyboard trick, you can easily adjust your keyboard layout to suit your needs. Whether you’re left-handed or right-handed, you can enjoy the convenience of texting with just one hand. Plus, you can customize your default keyboard for all apps, so you don’t have to switch back and forth.

Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover .

What are some other situations where you need to type with one hand on your iPhone? How do you cope with them? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

For more of my tech tips & security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.

Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

Florida man facing multiple charges in death of 4-month-old daughter: police

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March 7, 2024

FLORIDA PARENT, JUVENILE ARRESTED AFTER FIGHTING OTHERS AT SCHOOL BUS STOP: VIDEO

Florida man facing multiple charges in death of 4-month-old daughter: police

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A Florida man is facing multiple charges “for causing the death” of his 4-month-old daughter, according to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.

Sheriff Grady Judd announced Wednesday that Jacob Kubai, 22, is charged with aggravated manslaughter of a child, aggravated child abuse and two counts of knowingly abusing a child without bodily harm in the death of his daughter, Willow.

His arrest comes after a joint death investigation with the Bartow Police Department that began on Feb. 22 after Willow was brought to the Bartow Regional Medical Center with “no brain activity and suspicious physical injuries,” according to the sheriff’s office.

Jacob Kubai, 22, is charged with aggravated manslaughter of a child, aggravated child abuse and two counts of knowingly abusing a child without bodily harm in the death of his 4-month-old daughter. (Polk County Sheriff’s Office)

The infant girl was stabilized and transported by helicopter to Saint Joseph’s Hospital in Tampa, where it was determined that she had a fractured skull, multiple layers of hemorrhaging to the brain, broken ribs, bruises and scratches. She died from her injuries two days later.

Judd said death investigations can “take many months” to complete, but the severe injuries to Willow “left no doubt how she was killed.”

“I don’t know how a father could do this to his child, but I do know he should be locked-up(sic) for as long as the law allows,” the sheriff said in a statement.

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During separate interviews with a Polk County detective, neither Kubai or his wife could explain how the baby obtained her injuries.

When recalling his day with Willow before she arrived at the hospital, Kubai allegedly told detectives his daughter was fine while they went to Walmart together between 6:40 p.m. and 7:50 p.m. He said he fed her when they got home and then discovered she wasn’t breathing when he checked on her at around 8:10 p.m.

The sheriff’s office said security footage obtained by detectives showed Kubai alone at a self-checkout register at 6:54 p.m. and when they confronted him with the inconsistency, he “refused to provide any additional information.”

Jacob Kubai, 22, told a Polk County detective his infant daughter was fine when they were at Walmart together hours before her hospitalization, but surveillance footage showed he was at the store alone. (iStock)

It was determined that Willow was injured while Kubai was her sole caregiver during a three-hour period before she was taken to the hospital. Kubai’s wife was at work at the time and told police that Willow did not have bruising when she left the house.

“The baby was literally beaten to death,” Judd said during a Wednesday news conference. “The only person at home at the time was Jacob.”

The sheriff’s office also said Kubai left the infant alone on at least two different occasions – Jan. 17 and Feb. 22.