#Grade 2 automation

[blackmapmedia]

AYRTON | ZONDA 9FX

[do-you-have-a-flag]

just read that article from new york magazine, "Everyone Is Cheating Their Way Through College - ChatGPT has unraveled the entire academic project."

didn't reveal anything new to me about the use and functioning of the plagiarism-grown, glorified auto-predict, language models that were rolled out so irresponsibly it means now anyone can waste water instead of their own time and effort. but was still fascinating to read, in a bleak way.

it's so interesting because cheating and corner cutting will always exist in education, whether out of desperation or laziness, it will always be there. but by university it truly is wild how many people are not actually there to learn, because at that point if you have a program do all your work for you you are fully not there to learn so why waste your time and money playing pretend at a degree. a degree you aren't qualified for because you did not do enough.

we aren't in a post-capitalist universal basic income world where the idea of a few individuals lightly supervising automation is feasible. the technology is not there and the culture and economic stability is not there. so when a professor in the article reasons to students “you’re not actually anything different than a human assistant to an artificial-intelligence engine, and that makes you very easily replaceable. Why would anyone keep you around?” that is not hypothetical. and in terms of the degrees just because the on paper grade says you passed doesn't mean you passed it means you curated automated responses that pass with no actual guarantee of comprehension or retention of information on your part.

and there are tools and templates and minor automations that can be used to supplement your own efforts! they take longer but not that significantly, and more importantly they are less likely to impede the actual practice of learning to implementation.

that's what a lot of people who cheat or use these tools in this way seem to miss.

let me pull out three paraphrased statements of possible justifications from this article:

The education system is flawed

These exercises are irrelevant

I'm bad at organisation

these are all experientially true to my experience of education at various points. and the first point exacerbates issues with 2 and 3 to where students can feel overwhelmed or underprepared or frustrated for various reasons. however where i differ personally from the choice making of these students, is that while i never had access to such a powerful tool i still never chose to cheat or cut corners with things like chapter summaries instead of reading a book, or getting someone else to write for me, or any other obvious forms of cheating/plagiarism.

and the reason for this is not lack of frustration or feelings of antagonism towards the system or confusion over content or lack of organisation skills (all issues i had). it's that throughout my education, i am talking back to primary school, i always tried to figure out WHY we were doing the work assigned to us. what in our studies is it trying to get us to engage with, what methods does it force us to put into use to communicate that knowledge, and how much of the information have we comprehended and retained. some assignments are bad at the execution of these goals but if you can see what the goals are you can still benefit from attempting to achieve them while meeting the requirements enough to pass. IMPORTANTLY the process of doing this frustrating and often inefficient process helps not just critical thinking skills but also is how you actually learn things.

no one else can know stuff for you. it makes sense to outsource a basic sum to a calculator app on your phone, but this means you are not a mathematician. if you use a chapter by chapter summary to write a book report you have not read that book. if you read the wikipedia article for a movie you have not watched that movie. all of these are more verifiable sources of information than language models.

if you get a transcript of a lecture you did not attend and use a chatbot to make notes for you then you did not attend that class- if you read the transcript and take notes and then use the chatbot and compare the difference at least then you used your capacity for thought to process the information and assess it through comparison.... but it would be better to find a classmate and compare notes with a peer so you both have the opportunity to not only check how well you understood the lecture/refresh the information covered, but also a much lower stakes chance to try out communication skills than the group assignments and oral presentations often assigned for this purpose. and on top of that you get to socialise and network with someone in your field of study in a way that benefits both of you.

i'm not even against the use of machine learning models generally, i think they are useful in a repetitive task automation and data scanning context. but why are we delegating things like Knowing Stuff and Human Connection to the 1 and 0 machine that might as easily sell our info as have it leaked to hackers. what kind of cyberpunk surveillance dystopia are we shrugging lazily into? you do not have to pay all that money to pretend to be a competent professional. and if that sounds harsh it's because it is. there are enough scammers and barely qualified people succeeding in this world.

you do not have to dedicate your life to labours that you are not capable of, at the very least be honest with yourself of your own capacity for thought and action. genuinely try to figure out if you are using this technology because of a 'can't' or a 'won't'

it's not a tool if it knows more than you- it's a tool if you could do the job without it.

[adafruit]

🎄💾🗓️ Day 11: Retrocomputing Advent Calendar - The SEL 840A🎄💾🗓️

Systems Engineering Laboratories (SEL) introduced the SEL 840A in 1965. This is a deep cut folks, buckle in. It was designed as a high-performance, 24-bit general-purpose digital computer, particularly well-suited for scientific and industrial real-time applications.

Notable for using silicon monolithic integrated circuits and a modular architecture. Supported advanced computation with features like concurrent floating-point arithmetic via an optional Extended Arithmetic Unit (EAU), which allowed independent arithmetic processing in single or double precision. With a core memory cycle time of 1.75 microseconds and a capacity of up to 32,768 directly addressable words, the SEL 840A had impressive computational speed and versatility for its time.

Its instruction set covered arithmetic operations, branching, and program control. The computer had fairly robust I/O capabilities, supporting up to 128 input/output units and optional block transfer control for high-speed data movement. SEL 840A had real-time applications, such as data acquisition, industrial automation, and control systems, with features like multi-level priority interrupts and a real-time clock with millisecond resolution.

Software support included a FORTRAN IV compiler, mnemonic assembler, and a library of scientific subroutines, making it accessible for scientific and engineering use. The operator’s console provided immediate access to registers, control functions, and user interaction! Designed to be maintained, its modular design had serviceability you do often not see today, with swing-out circuit pages and accessible test points.

And here's a personal… personal computer history from Adafruit team member, Dan…

== The first computer I used was an SEL-840A, PDF:

I learned Fortran on it in eight grade, in 1970. It was at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, where my parents worked, and was used to take data from cyclotron experiments and perform calculations. I later patched the Fortran compiler on it to take single-quoted strings, like 'HELLO', in Fortran FORMAT statements, instead of having to use Hollerith counts, like 5HHELLO.

In 1971-1972, in high school, I used a PDP-10 (model KA10) timesharing system, run by BOCES LIRICS on Long Island, NY, while we were there for one year on an exchange.

This is the front panel of the actual computer I used. I worked at the computer center in the summer. I know the fellow in the picture: he was an older high school student at the time.

The first "personal" computers I used were Xerox Alto, Xerox Dorado, Xerox Dandelion (Xerox Star 8010), Apple Lisa, and Apple Mac, and an original IBM PC. Later I used DEC VAXstations.

Dan kinda wins the first computer contest if there was one… Have first computer memories? Post’em up in the comments, or post yours on socialz’ and tag them #firstcomputer #retrocomputing – See you back here tomorrow!

[justanotherblonde]

I don’t think Ne Zha 2 used Ai because I have seen behind the scenes videos on how the movie was made.

https://youtu.be/v7malQgDT_U?feature=shared

But this person on twitter/X is claiming the film used Ai (this person is a Disney fan so maybe that’s why)

https://x.com/CjstrikerC/status/1891468055114387869

https://x.com/CjstrikerC/status/1891483998448234894

this X user is doing exactly what i predicted and trying to scaremonger about something rather insignificant. the link they provide in their first post to iWeaver, an "AI-powered knowledge management tool", states that AI was used in the following ways in Nezha 2:

Question: What key roles did AI play in the production process of “Nezha 2”? Answer: AI played significant roles in the production of “Nezha 2”. It accurately predicted the box – office trend through AI, foreseeing the record – breaking moment 72 hours in advance. In the production process, it carried out automated complexity grading for 220 million underwater particle effects, generated resource allocation plans based on the profiles of over 3,000 artists, and could also track the rendering progress of 14 global studios in real – time, helping to improve production efficiency and quality. (Source: iWeaver)

now, if that's true, it's probably something the studio will keep on the DL simply because they don't want people to turn it into "they used AI? they made the whole thing with AI??!!! Terrible!!" (which, if you ask me, might be a dumb approach because in a lot of circles it will look worse if their "cover" gets "blown"). but even tho iWeaver says "significant roles", the first "role" of AI was just in predicting box-office gains, not in animation. the second "role" is what i suspected from having watched the movie: that AI was used to help render some scenes (one scene?). this makes perfect sense, and if you ask me is a really legit use of AI tech. dare i say it, perhaps even something the studios should be proud of.

OBVIOUSLY they did not use AI to create this whole movie. 14 animation studios were involved, thousands of animators, SO MUCH more work than "just" throwing some prompts at an algorithm and telling it to "make a movie". there are a ridiculous number of small details that can only be attributed to human work. a couple of my favs: when Li Jing [Nezha's father] lies in front of Shen Gongbao's little brother on Shen's behalf, the soldier behind him gives him a look of mild shock😲; when Nezha's parents have Shen Gongbao over for dinner during the siege, one of the Guardian Beasts is snoozing 😴.

use of AI always opens up the floor to discussion of what is "Art", but that's a debate humans will have for as long as we exist and are still making art. hell, people used to say it was cheating to try and paint something from a photograph, rather than a live model. they're ALWAYS going to be like that. critics are a necessary evil. haters are always gonna hate.

making art is about creating with integrity. artists use the tools available to them, and some artists are better at using tools than others. AI is also a creative tool. that's the world we live in in 2025.

consider this: i'm a teacher at university level, and obviously we've got loads of students trying to use AI to complete their assignments. what we're moving towards is having an "admission of AI use" declaration for them to make, because we acknowledge that this tool can be helpful! for example, SPELLING AND GRAMMAR. i'd LOVE if my students used AI to fix those mistakes. then i could smoothly read their work. AI can also help you get a basic understanding of concepts (thus improving your ability to write about them), but you still have to check the sources it provides you. that's what makes you look dumb at university level: citing imaginary sources and authors that the AI generated for you. AI tools are also pretty crap at actually "understanding the assignment", so it's easy to tell when a student used AI to write the whole essay because it won't be the right format, and thus can't get a good score. but if a student is smart enough to figure out what's required according to the rubric, what parts of the essay are needed, what arguments they need to make to get points, and they use AI to help them write those out, i see no reason to penalise them for using assistance - as long as they admit they used it. lying about one's abilities doesn't serve anyone, least of all the person themselves.

i think it's really easy for some armchair critic to look at a "fact" like "AI was used in the production of this film" and get angry about it. but i'll bet they haven't even been to see the movie, or spent any time looking for "behind the scenes" reports like you did, and that means we can ignore that idiot, because they don't know what we know 😌

thanks for reading!!

[altaqwaelectric]

Understanding the Role of Busbars, Circuit Breakers, and Relays in Switchgear

In the world of electrical distribution and control systems, switchgear plays a pivotal role in managing, protecting, and isolating electrical circuits and equipment. Within a switchgear assembly, components like busbars, circuit breakers, and relays are essential for ensuring efficient operation and maximum safety. Understanding the role of each of these components can help professionals and businesses make better decisions when designing or upgrading their electrical systems.

What Is Switchgear?

Switchgear is a general term that encompasses a wide range of electrical disconnect switches, fuses, circuit breakers, and associated equipment used to control, protect, and isolate electrical equipment. These systems are critical for both high-voltage and low-voltage applications and are commonly found in industrial plants, commercial buildings, power plants, and substations.

1. Busbars: The Power Distribution Backbone

Busbars are metallic strips or bars — typically made of copper or aluminum — that conduct electricity within a switchgear or distribution board. Their main function is to distribute electrical power to multiple circuits from a single input source.

Key Functions:

· Efficient Power Distribution: Busbars act as a central hub for distributing power to various outgoing circuits.

· Compact Design: Helps in reducing the overall footprint of the switchgear.

· Heat Dissipation: Designed to handle high currents while minimizing heat build-up.

Applications:

· Power distribution panels

· Switchboards and MCCs (Motor Control Centers)

· Panelboards and switchgear cubicles

2. Circuit Breakers: Protection from Overcurrent

Circuit breakers are automatic electrical switches designed to protect electrical circuits from damage due to overcurrent or short circuits. Unlike fuses, circuit breakers can be reset manually or automatically after tripping.

Key Functions:

· Fault Interruption: Instantly disconnects the circuit during faults to prevent damage or fire.

· Manual Switching: Can be used to manually turn circuits on or off during maintenance.

· Safety Compliance: Ensures that systems meet international safety standards (IEC, ANSI, etc.)

Types of Circuit Breakers:

· MCB (Miniature Circuit Breaker): Used for low-power applications

· MCCB (Molded Case Circuit Breaker): Handles higher loads than MCBs

· ACB (Air Circuit Breaker): Used for high-current circuits in industrial settings

3. Relays: The Sensing and Control Brains

Relays are electromechanical or solid-state devices that detect faults and send signals to circuit breakers or other control devices to disconnect the circuit. They are the “brains” behind the automatic protection mechanism of the switchgear.

Key Functions:

· Fault Detection: Monitors voltage, current, and other parameters to detect anomalies.

· Triggering Action: Sends signals to trip the circuit breaker when necessary.

· Automation and Coordination: Works in coordination with other protection devices to ensure selective tripping.

Types of Relays:

Overcurrent Relays

Differential Relays

Distance Relays

Earth Fault Relays

Why These Components Matter

Together, busbars, circuit breakers, and relays form the core of any switchgear system. When properly selected and configured:

· Downtime is minimized

· Equipment lifespan is extended

· Operational safety is enhanced

· Energy efficiency is improved

In an era where electrical reliability is non-negotiable, understanding these components isn’t just for engineers — it’s essential knowledge for decision-makers in any industry reliant on power.

Conclusion

Whether you’re designing a new electrical panel or upgrading an old one, choosing high-quality busbars, circuit breakers, and relays is critical to the safety and efficiency of your entire system. At AL Taqwa Oman, we specialize in premium-grade switchgear accessories that meet global standards and deliver unmatched performance.

Need help finding the right accessories for your panel? Contact our experts today and power your systems with confidence.

[almondenterprise]

How High-Quality Low-Voltage Switchgear Accessories Save You Money!

One of the main goals of industrial power systems is to cut costs without sacrificing performance.

Upgrading your low-voltage switchgear accessories is one frequently disregarded method to accomplish this.

Let’s discuss how purchasing high-quality switchgear accessories can extend the life of your electrical infrastructure, reduce operating costs, and boost system performance in this guide.

What Are Low-Voltage Switchgear Accessories?

Low-voltage switchgear accessories are parts that improve how well your electrical switchgear systems work, keep them safe, and make them reliable. These include:

- Circuit breakers

- Contactors

- Busbar systems

- Surge protection devices (SPDs)

- Control relays

- Communication and monitoring modules

They offer power distribution, fault protection, and real-time system monitoring and are therefore crucial in industrial automation and energy management.

1. Minimize Downtime and Improve Productivity

Cheap, low-quality parts are likely to break down, grinding work to a standstill. Every hour of unscheduled downtime at a plant equals lost work and income.

✅ Advantage:

The superior switchgear elements can withstand more load, function through more switch cycles, and withstand more demanding conditions. It guarantees power flows smoothly at all times and decreases the possibility of shutdowns.

2. Extend the Lifespan of Equipment

Switchgear accessories form the first line of defense for your equipment. Low-quality accessories will let surges or faults pass through and can destroy costly equipment like motors, drives, and PLCs.

✅ Advantage

Stable components such as motor protection relays and surge protection devices maintain voltage levels constant and prevent overloads, thus safeguarding equipment downstream of them.

3. Reduce Maintenance and Replacement Costs

Sustained maintenance, breakdown calls, and replacement components are costly over time. Cheap parts fail early, thereby adding to your maintenance load.

✅ Advantage:

Purchasing robust, low-maintenance accessories translates to fewer services and repairs, which results in overall savings.

4. Improve Energy Efficiency

Loss of power and energy inefficiency typically start with old or badly designed switchgear devices. Even small problems within a big system can lead to higher energy bills.

✅ Advantage:

Good-quality accessories provide the highest conductivity and proper switching, allowing for optimal voltage output maintenance and avoiding energy wastage.

5. Enhance Electrical Safety and Regulatory Compliance

Faulty accessories are a main cause of electrical fire and safety hazards. Substandard systems can also fail to meet industry standards.

✅ Advantage:

Good quality switchgear parts typically conform to IEC, UL, or other important standards for safe functioning and regulatory compliance.

Conclusion: Small Components, Big Savings

Cheap accessories can appear to be a good deal initially but can turn out to be costly over time. Employing quality low-voltage switchgear accessories guarantees that:

- Less system crashes

- Equipment lasts longer

- Reduced maintenance

- Reduced energy costs

- Safer operations

Looking for Reliable Low-Voltage Switchgear Accessories?

At Almond Enterprise, we specialize in supplying industrial-grade switchgear components that deliver long-term performance and value.

Contact Our Experts: sales.almond@almondenterprise.com for tailored recommendations

[coolcatteacher]

11 Simple Hacks for Teachers to Save Time | Dr. Desiree Alexander

Are you a teacher feeling overwhelmed by endless tasks and struggling to find time for what truly matters—your students? In this episode of The 10 Minute Teacher Podcast, Dr. Desiree Alexander, an award-winning educator and consultant, shares 11 practical time management hacks every teacher can use to reclaim their time and reduce stress.

📋 Show Notes: Access the full show notes and links mentioned in this episode at coolcatteacher.com/e879.

🎓 About Dr. Desiree Alexander: Dr. Desiree Alexander is the Founder and CEO of Educator Alexander Consulting, LLC, and the Deputy Director for the Associated Professional Educators of Louisiana. With over two decades of experience in education, she is an award-winning speaker, consultant, and advocate for teachers. Her work focuses on empowering educators with practical strategies and tools to thrive in their profession.

📧 Subscribe to the Cool Cat Teacher Newsletter: Stay up-to-date with inspiring teaching tips and resources by subscribing to our newsletter at coolcatteacher.com/newsletter.

📺 Watch on YouTube: Want to see more engaging content? Watch this episode and subscribe to our YouTube channel at youtube.com/coolcatteacher.

🎧 Where to Listen: Subscribe and listen to The 10 Minute Teacher Podcast on your favorite platforms.

  Classroom Organization Tips:

01:24 ⏳ 1. Get Organized  Declutter your workspace and avoid the dreaded “stack of death.” Set up a simple and functional filing system to make paperwork more manageable.

01:45 📂 2. Use a Simple Filing System  Whether digital or paper, having an easy-to-use system will keep your materials accessible and prevent last-minute scrambling.

02:15 📝 3. Empower Students to File Their Own Work  Save time by letting students take responsibility for filing their assignments. This simple step fosters organization skills and lightens your workload.

Personal Productivity Hacks:

03:02 📅 4. Plan Lessons Early to Reduce Last-Minute Stress Gather resources ahead of time—copies, books, manipulatives—to avoid scrambling when the copier inevitably breaks right before class.

05:03 👥 5. Have Multitasking Moments to Socialize and Get Work Done  Balance productivity with connection! Grade papers or file documents while chatting with colleagues, so you don’t have to take as much work home.

05:54 🚪 6. Close the Door and Minimize Distractions  Find a quiet space to focus during planning periods, so you can get work done efficiently without unnecessary interruptions.

06:10 🏡 7. Protect Your Peace and Work-Life Balance  Your well-being matters. Set limits on how much work you bring home, and make time for family, rest, and hobbies.

Technology and Task Management Tips

06:50 ✅ 8. Use the Answer, File, Delete (AFD) or Three D’s (Delegate, Dump, Do) Method  Prioritize your tasks by immediately answering, filing, or deleting emails. If it doesn’t need your attention, delegate or dump it!

08:03 📧 9. Use Email Tools Like Sweep to Stay Organized  Leverage email automation tools like Sweep to clear out old emails, filter messages, and keep your inbox manageable.

Important principles to remember as you manage your time

09:30💡 10. Put People First When Prioritizing Tasks  Before diving into your to-do list, check in with students and colleagues. Prioritizing people builds stronger relationships and improves your day.

10:21 🚧 11. Set Boundaries and Say No  Educators are natural people-pleasers, but overcommitting leads to burnout. Practice saying “no” and protect your time.

  Thank you for listening to the show! Subscribe to my newsletter at coolcatteacher.com/newsletter and let's connect on social @coolcatteacher wherever you connect! See you later educator!

New 10 Minute Teacher Podcast episode

[lem-n-aid]

Uriel Preston: And other stuff

Got inspired by @skenisasleb to make a few outfits for Uriel, a south park oc of mine, and a few episodes for him too! ( They are just the top third of the outfit, sorry! And btw, the quotation marks are names of episodes. Spoilers for post covid and return of covid)

1-"Pirrup your dukes": (this was when pip was alive) Upset that a kind boy like Pip would be tossed around with no remorse, Uriel decides to train him on some self defense techniques. Despite the genuine goodness of the former, Pip decides to us this training and beat his bullies to a pulp, and Uriel has to stop his friend before things get way out of hand.

2-"Coke flavored fish": When Uriel's parents, Coral and Marco, get back from a more than 20 year monster hunt from their jobs, they gotta make up the time that they couldn't spend with their son. To kill 3 birds with one stone, as they find out his adopted sis is a monster (so they gotta see if she's worth taking care of) and they have to hunt for a beast in a large area of water, the parents decide for a fishing trip. Plot A would be that Uriel fishes with, questionable bait, and plot B would center around Coral's Tension with Trixie, and the shenanigans that follow.

3-"What's best for her": Meeting an exchange student named Yentl, (This takes place before the first future of post covid) he's head over heels as he wishes no only to complete a to-do list from his far-off sis, but also to befriend someone new. However, Uriel is in tough competition with Cartman and is gonna have to duke it out for love( Using gifts of course), but looses at the end when Yentl wants to be Cartman's girlfriend due to her concern that Uriel is going ill from wasting so much energy on trying to please her.

4- Leroy Redhood: His Stick of truth sona. He's an old tavern keeper who wants to unite all creatures of Zaron. His place is where other species can mingle and interact with each other, but is restricted of violence against others inside (There will always be those annoying loopholes). 3 of these customers decide to stay to help with the tavern, and this is where his protective instincts shine (Calling the three his kids and other stuff). You dare hurt one of kids? Well get ready to feel figurative hell! He carries a basket with a spike on the bottom to double as a shield.

5- HoudiNick: In the day? Just an ordinary apathetic but still caring Fashionista, giving customers only the best of fabrics and materials to make a high grade superhero costume. At Night? A ruthless motherfucker that shows no mercy, has an endgame of blowing up earth, and burned his sister once( That was the most extreme instance of sibling wars with Trixie). The reason for turning evil was because he gave up trying to unite both franchises, and turned to the darkness, wreaking as much havoc as possible by trying to get as many secrets the heroes have and leak them to the entire town. His weapons are his trusty double-headed silver spear and his hat of infinity that stores bombs and other interesting stuff. To get him, you have to listen to every single conversation he has. You get limited amounts of dialogue at first, but he will open up to you as the game goes on, deciding to officially join you after he hears news of both franchises reuniting( But not before you defeat him in a battle, the mechanic being that he empty or even use your ultimate meter for his own ultimate when he can).

6- Post Covid(Original Timeline): In the original timeline, with his sister stuck in Canada, Uriel tried to get a list done of "Things to do when your sis is away," the only thing that remains incomplete was getting a girlfriend( Which was Yentl, but they are still good friends). The future sees Uriel as a Butler to Kenny, as he gave him a job of being a butler when almost all jobs got automated by robots. When Kenny dies, the will tells him to help out the other boys when he can. However, Cartman uses the will to his advantage, and makes him steal the machine to use it 'For the greater good( Which is to kill Kyle in hopes to stop this mess.)' Once Uriel finds out the true plan, he pulls out his double sided spear when Cartman fistfights Kyle to stop the two, only to have to put down the weapon when Yentl exclaims her disbelief on how Cartman used to be, and how he is now. (I'll do the altered future Uriel in another post)

I think I started this a week ago, but kept postponing it cause I was lazy. If you want more Info about Uriel and my ocs, don't be afraid to ask.

[endlessly-searching-for-you]

There's Always Another Summer, bonus chapter 2 1/2: The Recruit

I thought I was done with my Endless Summer sequel, well it turns out I lied and I’m adding bonus halftime chapters :D

Back to beginning

« Chapter 2  / Chapter 3 »

Four months earlier 

“I should have known that job was cursed the moment I got the file,” Zahra muttered to herself, lighting her next cigarette before the previous one even had a chance to cool off. The thick smoke surrounded her like armor. Her back pressed to the wall behind the arcade, legs stretched out.

She flicked the lighter and stared at the flame. Some insects buzzed nearby, drawn by the light. Just like her, except someone dangled a puzzle in front of her—and she’d fallen for it, hook, line, and sinker.

It happened last spring. She had just clicked “Submit” on her Hartfeld application and was already regretting it. Not because she thought she’d be rejected—please. But because the process was insultingly normal. No secret handshake, no cryptographic problem to solve—just deadlines, boring forms, and a polite automated email saying, “Thank you for your interest in Hartfeld University. We will review your application shortly.”  She rolled her eyes so hard she could see the back of her head.

So, when someone with a Hartfeld email address sent her an email with a cryptic subject “TIER IV RECON PHASE 01” and a single file attached, she didn’t think it was a scam. She thought: finally.

And then, when she opened the file, she let out a snort. Just a database dump, with tables like ‘students,’ ‘admissions,’ ‘classes,’ and ‘grades.’ She scrolled through the records half-annoyed, half-disappointed. What was the task? Find an average GPA from last year? Get the list of people who failed calculus twice? It was so below her level it felt like an insult.

She clicked back to the email to double-check. But besides the file, it was completely empty.

Now that was interesting.

She went back to the student list. It wasn’t big, no more than 1500 records. Too low to be a production dump. And they wouldn’t be that stupid, anyway. Privacy protection and all—not that she couldn’t access the real Hartfeld database within an hour, if she wanted to.

And then it caught her eye—the file size was too large for the number of records. Not much, but enough to raise her eyebrows.

She quickly wrote a script to compare the original with a fresh export she made herself, and there it was: random bytes stuck at the end of file. Mostly trash, but not all. Inside the noise, there was a message:

One of them is not supposed to be there.

Jackpot, she grinned.

A few hours later, she was elbows deep in the darknet mirrors of government databases, with a half-empty energy drink and a cold bowl of instant ramen on her desk. The search wasn’t that hard. There was only one student with a future acceptance date and grades for courses that hadn’t even started yet. 

Whoever added the record hadn’t even tried to hide it. First name only, “42” where the last name should be, and a birthdate of January 1st. Cute, she thought. Real subtle.

But there was a Social Security number. And unlike the rest of the generated data, this number was real.

They— she , Zahra corrected herself, checking the results—had three birth records, each filled in a different state. It could have been a bureaucratic glitch or a forgery.

But then she found two death certificates. Same number, same name, exact same date—

On a summer day, three years in the future.

She sat back and blinked twice as if hoping that was a prank. But the date didn’t change. She shrugged, clicked back to the original email, and attached the scans to the reply just to see what happened.

Two weeks later, she got a fancy admission letter from Hartfeld. And a second, smaller envelope tucked behind it. Inside was just a photo. No explanations. Just a few words scribbled on the back: “ Keep an eye on her.”

“Challenge accepted,” she murmured to herself, cracking her knuckles.

The Hartfeld database was in front of her like an opened book. And sure enough, there she was—the same ID as in the dump. Zahra copied the string, pulled up her own, and switched to the dorm assignments table. A few keystrokes. One command, and they’re roommates now.

Then she leaned back and smiled.

Let’s see who you are.

« Chapter 2  / Chapter 3 »

[waldronconstruction]

How Do I Make a Renovation Plan?

Thinking about a home renovation? Whether you're sprucing up your living space, prepping a rental property, or making a house feel like home, one thing’s certain—planning is everything. A well-thought-out renovation can add serious value to your property, improve functionality, and make your home more enjoyable. But where do you start?

If you’re in Lake County, IL, working with a reputable remodeling company like Waldron Construction can make the process smoother. But before you pick up the phone, let’s break down a solid renovation plan.

Define Your Goals 

Renovations aren’t just about aesthetics—they’re about solving problems and improving your lifestyle. The clearer you are about what you want, the easier the entire process will be.

Ask yourself:

Are you remodeling for comfort, functionality, or resale value?

Do you want a quick refresh or a full-scale transformation?

Are there specific pain points in your home that drive you crazy?

For example, if your kitchen feels cramped, do you want to knock down a wall or simply add more storage? If you're flipping a house, are you focused on high-ROI upgrades like kitchens and bathrooms, or is curb appeal your top priority?

If accessibility is a concern (think aging-in-place modifications), features like wider doorways, zero-threshold showers, and smart home tech should be on your radar.

Set a Realistic Budget 

You’ve probably heard the saying: Renovations always cost more than expected. It’s true. Unexpected issues—like hidden water damage or outdated wiring—can pop up and inflate your costs. That’s why adding a 10-20% contingency buffer is smart.

When creating your budget, consider:

Labor Costs – Skilled professionals are worth every penny.

Materials – High-end finishes cost more, but sometimes a mid-range alternative gives the same look at a fraction of the price.

Permits & Inspections – Local codes may require permits, and those fees add up.

Temporary Living Arrangements – If you’re doing a full home remodel, will you need to stay elsewhere?

Be honest about what you can afford. Stretching your budget too thin can leave you with unfinished projects or rushed, low-quality work.

Create a Prioritized Wish List

We all want the dream home, but let’s be real—not every renovation is essential. To avoid blowing your budget, split your list into must-haves and nice-to-haves.

Must-Haves (Essentials):

Structural repairs (foundation, roof, electrical, plumbing)

Functional improvements (fixing layout issues, adding storage)

Safety upgrades (railings, non-slip flooring, accessibility features)

Nice-to-Haves (Luxuries):

High-end finishes (marble countertops, custom cabinetry)

Smart home upgrades (automated lighting, heated floors)

Outdoor living enhancements (fire pits, built-in grills)

If you have a strict budget, prioritize the essentials first. You can always phase in cosmetic upgrades later.

Find the Right Professionals

DIY can be tempting, especially with all the YouTube tutorials out there. But unless you’re an experienced contractor, major renovations are best left to the pros.

A licensed contractor ensures:

Compliance with local building codes

Proper permits and inspections

Professional-grade craftsmanship

Liability coverage in case something goes wrong

If you’re in Lake County, IL, Waldron Construction has a stellar reputation for home remodeling and renovations. Their team can guide you through the process, ensuring your vision becomes a reality—without the usual headaches.

Get a Timeline 

Renovations rarely go exactly as planned. Weather, supply chain delays, and hidden structural issues can all throw a wrench in your timeline.

A realistic schedule should include:

Planning & Design – 2-4 weeks

Permits & Approvals – 2-6 weeks (depends on local regulations)

Demolition & Prep Work – 1-2 weeks

Construction Phase – Varies based on scope (can be 4-12+ weeks)

Finishing Touches & Inspections – 1-2 weeks

If you need your home ready by a certain date (e.g., before the holidays or a major event), plan for some buffer time.

Choose the Right Materials & Finishes

Material selection can make or break your project. Sure, that high-end quartz countertop looks amazing, but is it worth stretching your budget?

Consider:

Durability: Will it hold up to daily wear and tear?

Maintenance: Does it require special cleaning or upkeep?

Availability: Is there a long wait time for materials to arrive?

Resale Value: Will it boost your home's marketability?

For Budget-Conscious Homeowners:

Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring looks like hardwood but costs less.

Prefabricated cabinets are more affordable than custom-built ones.

Quartz countertops mimic marble but are lower maintenance.

For High-End Renovations:

Custom millwork and cabinetry

Natural stone countertops

Smart home integrations

Plan for the Disruptions

Even small renovations can turn your home into a construction zone. Be prepared for:

Dust & Noise – Cover furniture, seal off rooms, and consider earplugs.

Limited Access to Spaces – If it’s a kitchen remodel, set up a temporary meal prep area.

Scheduling Adjustments – Contractors might need to come early or work late to stay on track.

If you're renovating multiple areas, tackle one space at a time instead of gutting everything at once.

Inspections & Final Walkthrough

Before considering the project finished, do a detailed walkthrough with your contractor. Look for:

Unfinished paint touch-ups

Cabinet doors and drawers that don’t close properly

Flooring or tile imperfections

Any last-minute adjustments needed

Don’t be afraid to ask for fixes—it’s your home, and you should be 100% happy with the results.

Ready to Get Started?

A well-planned renovation doesn’t just add beauty—it improves functionality, comfort, and even home value. Whether updating a single room or doing a full-scale remodel, the key is planning and working with the right team.

If you're in Lake County, IL, let Waldron Construction bring your vision to life. With expert craftsmanship and personalized service, they’ll help you create a beautiful and functional home.

Call Waldron Construction today at (224) 788-9173 to discuss your renovation plans!

[blackmapmedia]

[commgroundstone]

...Waltz Well the Reaper-

ooc: prev threads with @luna-wing-cns274: [LOG//: 1/PLYBK#new_contract] [LOG//: 2/PLYBK#first_contact] [LOG//: 3/PLYBK#hazard_pay]

ooc2: disco elysium +1

====== The debrief is... a debrief. Half closure, frankly.

Acting Commissioner Marcello is clipped and grave as he stands in front of the audience. It does not hide a certain misery.

"N-C-P-S is in the process of investigation. We don't know everything yet, and the situation is still changing. This is a rough timeline, subject to change. Kelly 'Fantail' Circe was murdered over two weeks prior to your arrival. Your contract was issued by an unknown impersonator, at the request of Commissioner Ocelot. It remains in force, however we cannot provide any endorsements the imposter promised. Regular payout and combat bonuses will be issued."

The slide changes. It's a video analysis of the earlier gunfight Fantail showed from a different angle, compared with the recovered armor rig of one of the survivors.

"Earlier charges against Marshall Hall have been dropped and re-classed self defense against assault with malicious deceptive intent. Medical care to the survivors of the armed group, and investigating their background, is currently inconclusive."

The slide changes again.

"The N-C-P-S remains open to future working relationships with Luna Wing, however has no further requirements of your unit at this time. That will be all. Any questions?"

====== Ascension Orbital Hab One's officers pore over the body. It is... unpleasant. The living block has been evacuated and all occupants or passers-through sent to quarantine.

Circe's condition is poor. It's not a surprise, given her background as an ex-Union Navy Fusilier NCO. The welfare check team found two empty magazines, and a fighting knife, among other things.

They also discover signs of biopsy-based proso-harvesting, as well as the telltale signs of destructive memory theft.

A state-sponsored funeral, sealed casket. She will be buried with military honors.

-But From I, You Shan't Run.

====== Replacement engines. Replacement leg. This time there is respite to repaint her parts, and refit.

A small laser repeater next to her shoulder, akin to where it would be on a fighter jet. The snubnose barrel is behind a little door.

FINE-TUNED MACHINE — About fuckin time. PERCEPTION— Don't get too excited. It's just a snubbie repeater, and your sensors are still terrible.

Her endoskeleton needs to be removed and replaced, alongside a large amount of crash-armor and the civil-grade RADAR set in her chest. It... isn't pleasant to do it quickly without disconnecting her subjectivity sync-

TOLERANCE [Challenging: Success] — Pfft. The crash hurt more. FINE-TUNED MACHINE — And now we're so much better for it! Haven't felt this good in months!

This time, the performer takes a GMS free-print for a personal skiff, and leaves for the blinkgate herself. It is uneventful, and the spacecraft advance in good order as one by one they translate through to places unknown. When it is her turn and she submits the voucher from the Norrigo government, she almost expects it to be turned down-

But it's accepted, and she is waved through.

She will not reappear where she should. The error message is lost in a computer fault before it can even be sent.

=== 'Metal isn't supposed to feel pain! Ow! Fuck!' Hall finds herself laying on the floor, cabin blinking with a dozen warning lamps and the emergency lighting drenching it in a red haze. All of the external monitors have shut off, leaving blank screens and impossible indicator combinations on the console.

ENCYCLOPEDIA [Challenging: Failure] — It's hard to make heads or tails of any of this. These things are mostly automated, and these lights aren't supposed to come on without something catastrophic happening.

The aerialist picks herself up cautiously, feeling nothing broken or bruised. A ping of the skiff's C/C returns... no response, and it seems the skiff intranet is entirely gone.

She stares for a second at the displays, trying to will them into action by intensity of stare alone-

The whole hull shudders, and the distinct sound of something cutting at the outer hull plays through the small spacecraft.

Hall whirls around, staring at the source of the noise, just as the lights flick off.

=== END OF FILE+++INSERT NEW OR EXIT PLAYBACK ===

ooc: thats all for now folks! i hope this was kinda cool to read! uh. sorry if i like. got times wrong.

[entailglobal]

How Custom Epoxy Insulators Reduce Downtime in Electrical Systems

In today's fast-paced industrial world, even a few minutes of electrical system downtime can translate into substantial financial losses.  Whether it is in power transmission, distribution, or industrial automation, the reliability and stability of electrical components play a crucial role.  One of the unsung heroes in this landscape is the epoxy insulator — particularly those that are custom-made for specific system requirements.

At Radiant Enterprises, we specialize in high-quality insulators that are engineered to minimize failure risks and ensure continuous operation.  This article explores how custom epoxy insulators significantly reduce downtime in electrical systems, improve overall performance, and offer long-term cost savings.

What Are Epoxy Insulators?

An epoxy insulator is a type of electrical insulation component made from high-grade epoxy resin, often reinforced with glass fibre.  These insulators are known for their excellent electrical, mechanical, and thermal properties.  Because of their robustness and reliability, epoxy insulators are extensively used in switchgear, transformers, circuit breakers, and other high-voltage and medium-voltage applications.

Unlike porcelain or ceramic insulators, epoxy insulators offer better performance in compact spaces and harsh environments.  Their ability to withstand high mechanical stress, temperature variations, and environmental factors makes them an ideal choice for modern electrical infrastructure.

The Value of Custom-Made Support Insulators

Not all electrical systems are created equal.  They often differ in configuration, voltage ratings, and environmental exposure.  That is where custom made support insulators come into play.

Custom epoxy insulators are tailored to meet the specific mechanical and electrical requirements of your system.  These insulators are designed to align perfectly with the physical constraints and performance needs of a given setup.  This level of customization ensures a better fit, easier installation, and optimized function — all of which directly contribute to reducing downtime.

For example, in outdoor substations where high moisture and pollution levels are common, using a custom outdoor support insulator with enhanced tracking and erosion resistance can prevent flashovers and failures, which in turn keeps your system running smoothly.

Benefits of Custom Epoxy Insulators in Reducing Downtime

1.  Enhanced Mechanical Strength

Custom epoxy insulators can be designed to meet specific load-bearing requirements.  This is particularly important in environments where insulators must support heavy conductors or be mounted in positions that experience vibration or mechanical stress.  A poorly designed insulator may crack under pressure, leading to system failures.  A custom made support insulator, on the other hand, can be engineered with reinforced resin systems to handle extreme loads, reducing the risk of breakdowns.

2.  Optimized Thermal Performance

Epoxy resin insulators offer excellent thermal resistance.  However, in applications involving high current or elevated ambient temperatures, a standard insulator might degrade over time.  A customized epoxy insulator manufacturer in India like Radiant Enterprises can create insulators with specific thermal ratings and formulations that maintain integrity even under prolonged high-temperature exposure.  This leads to a longer lifespan and fewer unexpected shutdowns.

3.  Improved Dielectric Properties

By customizing the composition and design, cast resin post insulators can be made to exhibit superior dielectric strength.  This minimizes the risk of partial discharge or electrical arcing, both of which are common causes of equipment failure and subsequent downtime.  Customization also allows for the inclusion of features like embedded electrodes or shielding to manage field stress, thereby boosting operational reliability.

4.  Resistance to Environmental Stressors

Outdoor environments expose insulators to UV radiation, moisture, dust, and pollutants.  A custom outdoor support insulator can be treated with special coatings or additives that resist these stressors, preventing surface degradation and flashover incidents.  This customization ensures consistent performance regardless of weather conditions, reducing the need for frequent maintenance or unexpected repairs.

5.  Faster Installation and Maintenance

A custom made support insulator is typically designed for easy integration into your existing setup.  This means faster installation with fewer adjustments, and in many cases, plug-and-play compatibility.  When maintenance is required, modular or standardized custom designs can facilitate quick replacement, further minimizing system downtime.

Applications Where Custom Epoxy Insulators Make a Difference

Power Generation and Distribution

Power plants and substations rely on cast resin post insulators to ensure safe and efficient energy flow.  Custom insulators reduce arcing and withstand high fault currents, making them indispensable for preventing system disruptions.

Railways and Transportation

Electrified rail networks, especially high-speed systems, require outdoor support insulators that can handle dynamic loads and vibrations.  Customization allows the design to meet the specific needs of traction and auxiliary power systems.

Renewable Energy Systems

Solar and wind installations often face harsh environmental conditions.  Customized epoxy insulator manufacturers in India like Radiant Enterprises offer insulators that can operate reliably in saline, humid, or dusty environments without performance loss.

Industrial Automation and Switchgear

In automation panels and switchgear, space constraints are a major challenge.  Custom epoxy insulators are compact and can be molded to fit snugly into tight spaces while still meeting the necessary voltage and mechanical specifications.

Why Choose Radiant Enterprises?

Radiant Enterprises is one of the leading customized epoxy insulator manufacturers in India, known for our focus on quality, performance, and client-specific solutions.  Here is what sets us apart:

Tailored Solutions:  Every insulator is custom-engineered based on your technical drawings or system requirements.

High-Grade Materials:  We use premium epoxy resins and fillers to ensure durability and high performance.

In-House Testing:  All insulators undergo rigorous mechanical, thermal, and electrical testing before dispatch.

Wide Application Range:  From cast resin post insulators to outdoor support insulators, we cater to diverse industries.

With decades of experience and a dedicated R&D team, we ensure that each product contributes to your system’s uptime, efficiency, and safety.

Conclusion

The impact of custom epoxy insulators on reducing downtime in electrical systems cannot be overstated.  From enhanced mechanical strength and thermal performance to superior environmental resistance, the benefits are clear.  When sourced from reputed customized epoxy insulator manufacturers in India like Radiant Enterprises, these components offer unmatched reliability and longevity.

Investing in custom made support insulators, whether it is for cast resin post insulator needs or robust outdoor support insulator applications, is a proactive step toward building a more resilient and efficient electrical infrastructure.

Let Radiant Enterprises be your trusted partner in creating customized insulator solutions that not only meet but exceed your expectations.  Contact us today to learn more about our product offerings and how we can help optimize your systems for uninterrupted performance.

[baekuras]

i also did more applying (and got 2 no's already which....hello autmated email after automated scan through website answers only looking at my school...certificate instead of current grades but whatever)

this means i am now awaiting 21 answers and gotta do at least 6 more letters and search for more

[arapuroy23-blog]

```Dated 21-12-2024 AD, KHOWAI CANTT(IND)..... Hello..... LADIES&GENTLEMEN, BOYS&GIRLS.... Good Morning.... I'm Ar Apu Roy@regd Architect_online Building Planner at some "URBAN LOCAL BODIES"(ULBs) , e.g at "KAMALPUR NAGAR PANCHAYAT" (with GRADE-2 STATUSQUE BUILDING PLANNER)&at "TELIAMURA MUNICIPAL COUNCIL" (WITH GRADE-1 STATUSQUE BUILDING PLANNER)+++with my some kind of agreements with ONLINE BUILDING PLANNER at AGARTALA, Capital city of TRIPURA State(IND) ,&with ONLINE BUILDING PLANNERs at Some distance Places of ULBS from KHOWAI SUB DIVISION&DISTRICT, like "KUMARGHAT MUNICIPAL COUNCIL"&"KAILASHAHAR NAGAR PANCHAYAT /MUNICIPAL COUNCIL" & "PANISAGAR NAGAR PANCHAYAT/MUNICIPAL COUNCIL" & "DHARMANAGAR MUNICIPAL COUNCIL", all with solely Controlled&automation by "URBAN DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT" (UDD), GOVT OF TRIPURA(IND) ....... ##@@by birth, I am the INDIAN with by then that Provincial stutus_"LAND_PLOT SUBSTANCE"..... LOOK at it, as far as my Kindergarten(KG)/Balwadi&Primary&Secondary&Higher Secondary education concern, all of with "fully GOVERNMENT Controlled _AUTOMATION"..... & & except with my GRADUATION OF B.Arch(Bachelor of Architecture) with UNIVERSITY&COUNCIL&all INDIA Technical Education approved PRIVATE ORGANIZATION, e, g G. S. MANDAL.... ...##@@Think of my Deceased parents... 1)my father Kindergarten, Primary&Secondary Education(Matriculation).... of my best knowledge, Mr AJIT RANJAN ROY(MY DAD) got her Matriculation from "EAST PAKISTAN SECONDARY EDUCATION BOARD", since MATRICULATION EXAMINATION HELD in the month of MARCH-1956 AD, since his Date of birth was 17th March 1939 AD....He scored with his examination result in 2nd DIVISION... I think so He got his Graduation from "CALCUTTA UNIVERSITY".... what about my mom,..... My Mom LT. SNEHALATA ROY got her Kindergarten, Primary&Secondary Education from TRIPURA's neighbouring State ASSAM.... She got her Matriculation from "ASSAM BOARD" (IND),She got her Matriculation passing in Third Division ....... (THANK YOU)..... <<<"CEO" - CUM ARCHITECT at ARCHITECTURAL CONSULTANCY FIRM, "ARCH DESIGNING STUDIO" (IND), GSTIN-16AYSPR1667C1Z3,with its Trade License Holder at "RURAL LOCAL BODY" _"PASCHIM GANKI GRAM PANCHAYAT"OFFICE AUTHORITY, P. S&SUB DIVN&DIST-KHOWAI, PINCODE-799202, TRIPURA STATE(IND) ...```

[hypocrite-human]

AI & IT'S IMPACT

Unleashing the Power: The Impact of AI Across Industries and Future Frontiers

Artificial Intelligence (AI), once confined to the realm of science fiction, has rapidly become a transformative force across diverse industries. Its influence is reshaping the landscape of how businesses operate, innovate, and interact with their stakeholders. As we navigate the current impact of AI and peer into the future, it's evident that the capabilities of this technology are poised to reach unprecedented heights.

1. Healthcare:

In the healthcare sector, AI is a game-changer, revolutionizing diagnostics, treatment plans, and patient care. Machine learning algorithms analyze vast datasets to identify patterns, aiding in early disease detection. AI-driven robotic surgery is enhancing precision, reducing recovery times, and minimizing risks. Personalized medicine, powered by AI, tailors treatments based on an individual's genetic makeup, optimizing therapeutic outcomes.

2. Finance:

AI is reshaping the financial industry by enhancing efficiency, risk management, and customer experiences. Algorithms analyze market trends, enabling quicker and more accurate investment decisions. Chatbots and virtual assistants powered by AI streamline customer interactions, providing real-time assistance. Fraud detection algorithms work tirelessly to identify suspicious activities, bolstering security measures in online transactions.

3. Manufacturing:

In manufacturing, AI is optimizing production processes through predictive maintenance and quality control. Smart factories leverage AI to monitor equipment health, reducing downtime by predicting potential failures. Robots and autonomous systems, guided by AI, enhance precision and efficiency in tasks ranging from assembly lines to logistics. This not only increases productivity but also contributes to safer working environments.

4. Education:

AI is reshaping the educational landscape by personalizing learning experiences. Adaptive learning platforms use AI algorithms to tailor educational content to individual student needs, fostering better comprehension and engagement. AI-driven tools also assist educators in grading, administrative tasks, and provide insights into student performance, allowing for more effective teaching strategies.

5. Retail:

In the retail sector, AI is transforming customer experiences through personalized recommendations and efficient supply chain management. Recommendation engines analyze customer preferences, providing targeted product suggestions. AI-powered chatbots handle customer queries, offering real-time assistance. Inventory management is optimized through predictive analytics, reducing waste and ensuring products are readily available.

6. Future Frontiers:

A. Autonomous Vehicles: The future of transportation lies in AI-driven autonomous vehicles. From self-driving cars to automated drones, AI algorithms navigate and respond to dynamic environments, ensuring safer and more efficient transportation. This technology holds the promise of reducing accidents, alleviating traffic congestion, and redefining mobility.

B. Quantum Computing: As AI algorithms become more complex, the need for advanced computing capabilities grows. Quantucm omputing, with its ability to process vast amounts of data at unprecedented speeds, holds the potential to revolutionize AI. This synergy could unlock new possibilities in solving complex problems, ranging from drug discovery to climate modeling.

C. AI in Creativity: AI is not limited to data-driven tasks; it's also making inroads into the realm of creativity. AI-generated art, music, and content are gaining recognition. Future developments may see AI collaborating with human creators, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in fields traditionally associated with human ingenuity.

In conclusion, the impact of AI across industries is profound and multifaceted. From enhancing efficiency and precision to revolutionizing how we approach complex challenges, AI is at the forefront of innovation. The future capabilities of AI hold the promise of even greater advancements, ushering in an era where the boundaries of what is achievable continue to expand. As businesses and industries continue to embrace and adapt to these transformative technologies, the synergy between human intelligence and artificial intelligence will undoubtedly shape a future defined by unprecedented possibilities.