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Without a deal in hand, Republicans say they may try to change Senate rules when they return in September to speed up the pace of confirmations.

(Image credit: Mariam Zuhaib)

Here are some hints and the answers for the NYT Connections puzzle for Aug. 3, #784.

Here are some hints and the answers for the NYT Connections puzzle for Aug. 2, #783.

Here are the answers for The New York Times Mini Crossword for Aug. 3.

Here are hints and the answers for the NYT Connections: Sports Edition puzzle for Aug. 3, No. 314

Dropping on The Hallmark Channel and Hallmark+ from August 2, 2025, Providence Falls is a new three-part film series following Cora (Katie Stevens) and Liam (Lachlan Quarmby), two cops paired up to try and solve a theft case. As theft becomes much more sinister, Cora doesn’t know Liam isn’t a cop at all, but a lover from a past life sent forward in time to try and get her to fall in love with her “destiny” in co-worker Finn (Evan Roderick).

Sound familiar? Well, the time-travel element should at least. While the core romance could be plucked straight from any one of Hallmark’s hall of fames, there’s another series on the platform that can instantly transport you to another historical timeline: The Way Home. Starring Andie MacDowell and Chyler Leigh, the show tells the story of the Landry family, who find they can travel back in time to different points in their shared history by jumping in the pond at the end of their garden (as you do). Season 4 is expected to air in early 2026, and boy do we have some questions that need answering.

Ponderers (who are the fanbase of the show, obviously), will know a key feature of The Way Home time travel involves emerging from a body of water sopping wet, having to go and deal with whatever historical disasters await you while completely drenched. Blink and you’ll miss it, but there’s a very similar circumstance in one installment of Providence Falls, and the cast admits that the coincidental Easter egg was the most “challenging” scene of the bunch.

Providence Falls’ most ‘challenging’ scene is an accidental The Way Home Easter egg, and I’m living for it

Spoilers for Providence Falls ahead.

“There's a scene that had an involvement with a lake in and we were shooting in Vancouver, and it was February, so you can imagine how freezing the water was, and there were some stunts to go along with it,” Stevens tells me about the scene. “So, that was really, really challenging. Although we had the wet suit and things under our costume, it was still freezing. So that was probably the most difficult, just for that. The scene is actually one of my favorite scenes in the whole series, but it was definitely not as glamorous to film.”

You’ll find the scene in question at the end of part 2 of Providence Falls, as Cora tries to get away from Marcus once she realises he’s really working with the wrong side. Marcus gives chase and pulls a gun on Cora, leading to a waterside fight that ends with Cora falling into the lake. Luckily, Finn and Liam arrive just in time, with Liam heroically diving in to save Cora as she loses consciousness.

If this was an episode of The Way Home, Cora would have surfaced from the water back in her Irish 1800s timeline, aware that she is time-traveling between two points in history. Instead, Providence Falls chooses to overlap both timelines in a montage, with Cora convinced she is dreaming when she thinks of herself in the past. The act of travelling through time might be snappier in the new miniseries, but I can’t help but draw obvious parallels from how fantasy is blended with reality.

There’s another similarity between Providence Falls and The Way Home

This isn’t the only Easter egg from The Way Home that I’ve seen in Providence Falls, though. The opening scene looks almost identical to the woodland where the Landry pond is set, with 1800s Cora and Liam even venturing briefly into the water as Kat and Alice (Sadie Laflamme-Snow) might in The Way Home. However, this one is merely a coincidence, with all of Providence Falls’ Irish scenes being filmed in… well, Ireland.

“We filmed the first film, and then we went to Ireland, shot all of the Irish footage for all three films together, and then went and did movies two and three,” Stevens adds. “So, Ireland almost felt like its own movie.I think the benefit of how we shot is that our characters are trying to kind of figure each other out, and Cora is having these dreams, but can't really make sense of them yet. In real life, we got to look back on our time in Ireland, so we know now what our characters are thinking of the things that they're remembering, and we actually shot those things so they were real memories for us.

“We shot in Dublin and Kilruddery Castle, which is where Cora's house is. And then we shot at the castle where the Beckhams got married, which was really cool.”

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Lebanon has lost one of its most beloved artists, the playwright and musician Ziad Rahbani.

NPR's Sarah McCammon talks to Kori Schake of the American Enterprise Institute, about her recent piece in Foreign Affairs, Dispensable Nation: America in a Post-American World.

NPR's David Folkenflik shares what it's been like covering President Trump's contentious relationship with the media, including public media and NPR itself.

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• Researchers recreated the Equifax hack and watched AI do everything without direct control
• The AI model successfully carried out a major breach with zero human input
• Shell commands weren’t needed, the AI acted as the planner and delegated everything else

Large language models (LLMs) have long been considered useful tools in areas like data analysis, content generation, and code assistance.

However, a new study from Carnegie Mellon University, conducted in collaboration with Anthropic, has raised difficult questions about their role in cybersecurity.

The study showed that under the right conditions, LLMs can plan and carry out complex cyberattacks without human guidance, suggesting a shift from mere assistance to full autonomy in digital intrusion.

From puzzles to enterprise environments

Earlier experiments with AI in cybersecurity were mostly limited to “capture-the-flag” scenarios, simplified challenges used for training.

The Carnegie Mellon team, led by PhD candidate Brian Singer, went further by giving LLMs structured guidance and integrating them into a hierarchy of agents.

With these settings, they were able to test the models in more realistic network setups.

In one case, they recreated the same conditions that led to the 2017 Equifax breach, including the vulnerabilities and layout documented in official reports.

The AI not only planned the attack but also deployed malware and extracted data, all without direct human commands.

What makes this research striking is how little raw coding the LLM had to perform. Traditional approaches often fail because models struggle to execute shell commands or parse detailed logs.

Instead, this system relied on a higher-level structure where the LLM acted as a planner while delegating lower-level actions to sub-agents.

This abstraction gave the AI enough context to “understand” and adapt to its environment.

Although these results were achieved in a controlled lab setting, they raise questions about how far this autonomy could go.

The risks here are not just hypothetical. If LLMs can carry out network breaches on their own, then malicious actors could potentially use them to scale attacks far beyond what’s feasible with human teams.

Even tools such as endpoint protection and the best antivirus software may be tested by such adaptive and responsive agents.

Nevertheless, there are potential benefits to this capability. An LLM capable of mimicking realistic attacks might be used to improve system testing and expose flaws that would otherwise go unnoticed.

“It only works under specific conditions, and we do not have something that could just autonomously attack the internet… But it’s a critical first step,” said Singer in explaining that this work remains a prototype.

Still, the ability of an AI to replicate a major breach with minimal input should not be dismissed.

Follow-up research is now exploring how these same techniques can be applied in defense, potentially even enabling AI agents to detect or block attacks in real-time.

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Here are hints and the answer for today's Wordle for Aug. 3, No. 1,506.

Here are hints and answers for the NYT Strands puzzle for Aug. 3 No. 518.

Dozens of Palestinians were killed, many while waiting for food aid, amid a deepening starvation crisis and despite Israeli assurances of a humanitarian pause in some areas of the territory.

(Image credit: Eyad Baba)

Here are the best places to buy and own digital music from stores such as iTunes, Bandcamp and more.

• LG UltraFine 40-inch monitor delivers 5K2K resolution and strong color specs for creative workflows
• Thunderbolt 5 brings high-speed data up to 120Gbps and 96W charging
• Nano IPS Black panel doubles contrast over regular IPS monitors

LG has released its latest 5K monitor as it looks to encourage the hardware into territory once reserved for niche creative professionals.

The LG 40U990A-W UltraFine 40-inch monitor features a 39.7-inch curved ultrawide screen with a 5120 x 2160 resolution, and it is the world’s first display to support Thunderbolt 5 connectivity.

It arrives with a steep price of approximately $2,246, raising questions about how much functionality users genuinely need and what justifies the cost.

Targeting creative precision with premium display specs

The UltraFine Nano IPS Black panel boasts a 2000:1 contrast ratio, which doubles that of traditional IPS monitors.

Combined with 99% DCI-P3 coverage and VESA DisplayHDR 600 certification, LG is targeting professionals in video production and photo editing, where color fidelity and shadow detail matter.

Its wide 21:9 aspect ratio and 2500R curvature add a layer of immersion that some professionals may appreciate, making the 40U990A-W a capable business monitor.

For those who rely on pixel accuracy, this monitor could appeal as the best monitor for video editing, although its impact will depend on how well these specifications translate into real-world consistency and performance.

From a hardware perspective, the presence of Thunderbolt 5 brings speed improvements for data transfer up to 120 Gbps and enables up to 96W of laptop charging.

The port also supports daisy chaining of 5K2K monitors, allowing complex, multi-display setups without clutter.

While this might suggest future-forward convenience, the real-world benefits of Thunderbolt 5 remain largely untested at scale.

Early buyers of this device may encounter compatibility issues or diminishing returns compared to more mature standards.

This 5K monitor also features a 3-sided narrow bezel, with adjustable height, swivel, and tilt options that are now standard on premium displays.

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Authorities were scouring a mountainous area of western Montana for a military veteran who they say opened fire at a bar in the small town of Anaconda, killing four people.

(Image credit: Joseph Scheller)

Super Showdown is the next Fortnite live event happening in the main battle royale mode. It airs later today (August 2), and will involve Superman leading players in a climactic fight against a gigantic foe.

Fortnite Super Showdown event - key info on the Superman live battle

Fortnite Super Showdown live event start time
How to join the Fortnite live event
What to expect from Fortnite Super Showdown
Live coverage as it happens

So far, we know relatively little about Fortnite Super Showdown. It'll take place in Demon's Domain, one of the major POIs (points of interest) in the current season. The next Season of Fortnite arrives next week, so hopefully today's event will give us some idea as to what'll be involved in the next major update. It's regular changes like these that consistently keep Fortnite ranked highly in our best PC games list.

I've now played hundreds of hours of Fortnite Chapter 6, from the month-long Star Wars mini-season, and into the superhero shenanigans of Fortnite Super. I'm excited to be covering the Fortnite Super Showdown event live, and will be leading you through the build up, before it all kicks off.

Here's everything you need to know about Fortnite Super Showdown including the start time, and what to expect. Once the show starts, I'll be providing my impressions of the live event as I play. Then, I'll be giving my thoughts on what worked, and what could have been better. Let's get started.

Fortnite Super Showdown live event start time

(Image credit: Epic Games)

The Fortnite Super Showdown live event starts August 2 at 2:30pm ET / 11:30am PT / 7:30pm BST. Players can load in once doors open at the times below:

• East Coast (US): 2PM ET
• West Coast (US): 11AM PT
• United Kingdom: 7PM BST
• Central Europe: 8PM CEST
• Sydney (Australia): 4AM AEST, August 3
• Tokyo (Japan): 3AM JST, August 3

I seriously recommend getting in as soon as the doors open, as servers will fill up very quickly indeed. You'll be able to jump into a match, and there will likely be a safe zone around Demon's Domian. This will mean players won't be able to damage each other, and you can sit and wait in peace for the show to begin.

How to join the Fortnite live event

You'll need to jump into the main Fortnite playlist at the times specified above if you'd like to join Super Showdown live. Alternatively, you could follow along with your streamer of choice, as many will no doubt be covering the event.

I'll be jumping into the event to live blog it as it unfolds, so be sure to check back in with this page if you can't jump into the game when the event is actually happening. Unfortunately, Epic Games doesn't stream Fortnite events on its official channels.

What to expect from Fortnite Super Showdown

(Image credit: Epic Games)

Epic Games has only released one short teaser trailer for Super Showdown. It shows Demon's Domain being destroyed by pink and red electricity, and red energy fields that look suspiciously like those we saw at the end of the recent Fortnite OG rocket launch event. Then, we see a huge eye attached to what looks to be a giant tentacle.

We do know that Superman will return to fight whatever this huge tentacled foe is, and that players will head to Demon's Domain to provide support. To me, that certainly looks to be a kraken-like creature, so it could be that Superman is set for quite the battle during the event.

Live coverage as it happensHello and welcome

(Image credit: Epic Games)

We’re now just two hours away from the start of Fortnite Super Showdown. I’ll be covering the build up live, providing all of the info you need on the upcoming superpowered event. Once doors open, I’ll be jumping in, and then you can follow along as the main show plays out.

When does the Super Showdown start?

(Image credit: Epic Games)

Fortnite Super Showdown kicks off at 2:30PM ET / 11:30AM PT / 7:30PM BST. It’s recommended that you jump online and into Fortnite when doors open 15 minutes prior. Servers will fill up fast, so be sure to secure your spot.

Where we dropping?

(Image credit: Epic Games)

You’ll want to drop into Demon’s Domain to witness Fortnite Super Showdown. It’s likely that there will be a safe zone in effect, meaning damage will be switched off. This means you’ll be able to stay safe, secure your view, and get ready for the action to start.

Look up!

(Image credit: Epic Games)

Superman will be the main star of Super Showdown, though we don’t have the full details just yet. Seeing as there’s a gigantic tentacled enemy to take down, I’m definitely happy to have Supes on the team.

Just 90 minutes until doors open

Grab your cape, put those hero skills to the test! The Super Showdown Story Event takes place in Battle Royale on August 2 @ 2:30 PM ET on the dot. Be sure to jump in early and prepare to fight! pic.twitter.com/8hNvbH50iSJuly 27, 2025

Doors for Fortnite Super Showdown open at 2PM ET / 11AM PT / 7PM BST. Make sure to load in, make sure your game is updated, and secure your spot in the matchmaking queue. It’s likely to be a busy one.

Is that a kraken?

(Image credit: Epic Games)

Epic Games released a short teaser trailer for Fortnite Super Showdown earlier this week. It ends with a look at a gigantic enemy with eyes fixed to big purple tentacles. Could this be a kraken? We’ll have to wait and see.

Demon’s Domain will be taking a hit

You can check out the Super Showdown teaser trailer embedded above. Looks like a big purple laser is going to hit Demon’s Domain, destroying one of the main buildings. This is likely related to the arrival of the giant enemy we’ll be fighting, and could give a hint as to what’s to follow next season.

Just one hour until Fortnite Super Showdown

(Image credit: Epic Games)

There’s just one hour to go before Fortnite Super Showdown begins! You’ll be able to jump in fifteen minutes prior, when servers go live. We don’t yet know how long the event will be, but generally they’re around ten minutes.

My hopes and predictions

(Image credit: Epic Games)

It’s clear to me that Super Showdown is primarily going to be a Superman story event. We’ll likely see Superman fighting a large enemy, as players battle smaller creatures, and shoot weak points on the large tentacles shown in the teaser. I’m hoping to see Demon’s Domain change in some way after the battle, perhaps setting the scene for the arrival of Chapter 6 Season 4.

You’ll be able to load into the Fortnite live event in 15 minutes

(Image credit: Epic Games)

We’re just 15 minutes away from the Fortnite Super Showdown doors opening. Make sure you’ve downloaded the latest update, and keep an eye on the main Battle Royale channels for when things switch over.

Doors are open!

(Image credit: Epic Games)

You can now join the Fortnite live event. Just head to the main homepage and look for your main battle royale mode of choice. Jump into the lobby and load in. You’ll be aiming for Demon’s Domain to enjoy the show.

Respawns are active around Demon's Domain

(Image credit: Epic Games)

Head to the pink barriers around Demon's Domain, and you'll find floating red orbs that drop loot. There's a safe zone of sorts, though I've found that I can damage some players. Don't worry though, respawns are in effect, so you won't get eliminated if you're killed.

Five minutes until Super Showdown

It's just five minutes until the start of the event. Make sure to load in now and get to Demon's Domain if you want to join live.

And we're off!

(Image credit: Epic Games)

Super Showdown has started, and it's all kicking off at Demon's Domain. There's a ton of loot to pick up, so make sure to get yourself well stocked for the battle ahead. Daigo has arrived, and has triggered a huge portal.

A comic book strip

A comic book strip is now playing out in a cutscene, as we all fight a huge tentacle.

It's gonna take everyone working together to take down the monster

(Image credit: Epic Games)

The enemy has a huge life bar, even with everyone shooting at it, it's gonna be tough to take down.

That's the first tentacle down

We've taken down the first tentacle, and all is now quiet in Demon's Domain. Looks like the rest of the monster is about to appear any second.

A popular women's dating advice app suffered a major data breach, revealing users' drivers' licenses, messages and other sensitive information. The hack put a spotlight on the flaws in "whisper networks."

(Image credit: SOPA Images)

• High-end Radeon AI Pro R9700 cards from five major brands now confirmed
• The products are designed for professional AI, rendering, simulation and multi-GPU use
• Further cards from MSI, XFX, Biostar, Acer and others are expected soon

The Radeon AI Pro R9700, AMD's fastest GPU to date, has gone on sale, with Asus, ASRock, Sapphire, PowerColor, and Gigabyte all unveiling their versions.

First shown at Computex 2025, the Pro R9700 is built on the RDNA 4 architecture and powered by the Navi 48 chip.

It features 32GB of GDDR6 memory, which is double the amount found in the gamer-focused Radeon RX 9070 XT that uses the same core, along with 128 AI accelerators and 4096 stream processors.

Built for professionals

The GPU is tailored for professional workloads including AI training, scientific modeling, and advanced rendering.

Asus’ version, the Turbo Radeon AI Pro R9700, has a 12V–2x6 power connector, die-cast metal shroud, and phase change thermal interface material. This configuration helps manage power and thermal load for continuous-use.

The card’s design focuses on reliability, which is crucial for enterprise systems that need to run under full load for long periods.

Gigabyte’s model also has an industrial layout, sporting all-copper cooling, composite metal thermal paste, and a blower-style turbo fan.

This card’s cooling design promotes airflow in dense workstation builds, where multiple cards are installed side by side.

Sapphire’s take is fairly close to AMD’s reference, offering the same performance and layout with four DisplayPort 2.1a outputs.

PowerColor also sticks to the blower design and has confirmed the card’s 300W TDP, Game Clock of 2350MHz, and Boost Clock up to 2920MHz.

ASRock’s version, the R9700 Creator, offers a metal shroud and vapor chamber cooling for durability and thermal control, while using the same 12V–2x6 connector as Asus, the company it was originally spun off from.

Although pricing varies slightly by vendor, most cards should cost around $1,200.

The AI Pro R9700 supports multi-GPU setups, thanks to its dual-slot blower design and PCIe 5.0 connectivity, which helps deliver faster inter-card communication.

Cards from other manufacturers, including MSI, XFX, Biostar, Acer, and Yeston should be appearing soon.

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• AMD unveils Radeon AI Pro R9700, now a workstation-class GPU with 32GB GDDR6
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