How to calculate the area of a triangle worksheet

Triangle - Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill, North Carolina

2008.04.14 16:03 Triangle - Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill, North Carolina

The Research Triangle, or simply The Triangle, is the combined NC area of Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill. It is anchored by three major research universities.
[link]


2009.06.24 17:21 Geminize For the Raleigh, NC and surrounding areas.

Raleigh is the capital of the state of North Carolina as well as the seat of Wake County. Raleigh is known as the "City of Oaks" for its many oak trees. Join us on Discord! https://discord.gg/PPCARNjJAg
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2011.11.17 02:46 2ndknightbro edibles: a friendly place to post recipes that get you high!

This place is dedicated to anything related to cannabis infused food and drinks also known as edibles. NO MINORS. DRUG SOURCING IS NOT PERMITTED HERE.
[link]


2024.05.15 15:23 Cold-Catch3585 How to solve

I am struggling with how to solve this problem. I am asked to solve for the surface area and volume of this object.
I can see the obvious cylinder with the radius of 8 so can solve for that piece. I have no idea how to handle the 2 triangle stubby pieces on the top and bottom. I am not even sure what this shape would look like in real life space. Can anyone provide a solution so that I can understand it? Thank you.
submitted by Cold-Catch3585 to Geometry [link] [comments]


2024.05.15 14:48 PunnyHeals Misrepresentation of house price data by Realtor.ca

Misrepresentation of house price data by Realtor.ca
TL;DR:
  1. Realtor.ca claims the average sale price of a house in Fredericton, NB is $288,300. My own calculations point to the average being approximately $543,878.
  2. Realtor.ca most likely calculates it average house price using the average for houses and vacant land. My average for houses and land was $288,540, only a $240 difference, making this the most likely explanation.
  3. Realtor misrepresents graphs and averages through market capture, pay gating, and could be violating the Competition Act.
**Background**
I have been looking to buy a house for the past several years in the Fredericton area and have been checking the online listings regularly through Realtor.ca since it is the most common real estate listing website used in New Brunswick. What I liked about Realtor.ca was its ability to provide the average sell price for a house every month with graphs that showed the average sell price for a house in Fredericton for the past 12 months and 10 years. Looking for a house for an several years, I felt that I had a good idea of the market conditions and price ranges. My anecdotal evidence was that the average house price was much higher than Realtor.ca’s estimate of 288,300. I wondered if my anecdotal evidence could be supported by data.
The objective of this report is to collect list price data from all available listings within the Fredericton area. Once collected, I can take the average price and see if it matches the average price shown by Realtor.ca.
**Average/Median Methodology**
When you use Realtor.ca, you can filter results by the property type. There are six property type categories: Residential (single family home), condo/strata, vacant land, recreational, multi-family, and agriculture. For each of these property types, the asking price and address were copied into an Excel file. The data was collected on May 10, 2024, and included all listings within Fredericton; duplicate listings were removed.
Once all data was collected, the average and median for each property type was calculated (Table 1). I compared my calculated average to the Realtor.ca average to determine if my anecdotal evidence of thinking the average house price was higher than what Realtor.ca said was justified.
**Results**
There were 107 listings for residential houses (referred simply as “house” in this report), 245 listings for vacant land, 5 listings for recreational, 7 listings for multi-family, 2 listings for agriculture, and 10 listings for condos (Figure 1).
The average listing price was $543,878 for houses, $177,026 for land, $227,080 for recreation, $826,100 for multi-family, $829,450 for agriculture, and $317,410 for condos. The median listing price was $474,900 for houses, $64,900 for land, $229,900 for recreation, $799,000 for multi-family, $829,450 for agriculture, and $289,900 for condos (Table 1).
**Realtor.ca MLS System Average House Price Claim**
When you search for “houses for sale in Fredericton, NB”, you will see the top search results show Realtor.ca. This is not uncommon since Realtor.ca and its Multiple Listing Service (MLS) have the highest number of listings of any other online real estate listing service for the Fredericton, NB, area. Having most real estate listings concentrated on one system can provide users with a general idea of greater market conditions beyond individual listings, such as averages and trends for cities. Realtor.ca provides this data in the form of “Market Price (CAD)” price trends for the past 12 months, and price trends for the past 10 years (Figure 2). These figures are prominently displayed at the end of the first page of the Fredericton real estate listings (URL: https://www.realtor.ca/nb/fredericton/real-estate).
This leads us to the first claim by the Realtor.ca MLS system claim and our initial objective of this report.
Claim: The average market price in Fredericton sits at $288,300 as of May, 2024.
Analysis: When a user views these figures, it is a safe assumption that when a price is displayed, the user is inclined to believe that “Market Price (CAD)” is the average house price in Fredericton. This is further reinforced if the user reads the description above the figures which states:
“Use our home price trends to better gauge local market conditions and plan your next move. The graphs below show benchmark or average prices of homes sold in the area. Data generated by MLS® Systems and the MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) — Canada’s most advanced tool to gauge local home price levels and trends.”
This small paragraph specifically states, “The graphs below show benchmark or average prices of homes sold in the area.” Based off the graphs and their statement, we can safely interpret that Realtor.ca is explicitly saying that the average home price in Fredericton, NB, currently sits at $288,300; leaving no room for interpretation on how the data can be viewed. The reason I wanted to be explicitly clear on this thought process is that if you look back at the results section of this paper (Table 1) and see that the calculated average of all house listings was $543,878, it represents an 88.65% difference. A couple assumptions that could explain this difference are:
  1. The listings used in the analysis are only a snapshot in time and could not represent an accurate or precise representation of the monthly price average.
  2. Houses that were listed below the average could be selling more quickly, giving us a skewed data set that is not representative of all listings that have been posted.
  3. Realtor.ca gives the average sell price for houses in Fredericton and not the average listing price. There could be a large discrepancy between sell price and list price, resulting in my calculated average being inflated.
The three assumptions made above introduce bias into my conclusions, but given the magnitude of those differences, it could be reasonable to assume there might be an alternative reason causing these discrepancies.
Since there is such a large discrepancy in my calculated average and the average from Realtor.ca, I expanded my analysis to other categories. I combined my residential house data set with the other five property types to see if it would alter our initial average and how close it would come to the calculated Realtor.ca average (Table 2). Realtor.ca claims the average house price in Fredericton was $288,300, which seems to be closest to my calculated average for the combination of house and land listings. With the addition of these combinations, it suggests that Realtor.ca calculates average housing price using houses and land listings.
Realtor.ca MLS’s claim of the average house price in Fredericton, NB being $288,300 is a misrepresentation of the true market value and conditions. If a company were to calculate averages of an entire real estate market within an area, why would they only include house and land and not the other 4 categories?
**Misleading Representations by Realtor.ca**
The conclusions made from my analysis were made with plenty of explanations and assumptions. Given that the MLS system is a pay gated system, and their patented house price index algorithms are private, I feel it is reasonable to assume that my data is closer to true market prices. This leads us to the next question, if my data isn’t correct, why are the figures, calculations, and methodology misleading users on market conditions? The average user is not going to spend a significant amount of time manually collecting data and putting it into Excel to double check Realtor.ca. The company is the largest multiple listing system used in New Brunswick and holding that status comes with some form of implicit trust that the public holds for information it publishes. In this section, I will lay out sections and guidelines from the Competition Act and why I believe that Realtor.ca is violating the Act.
**Competition Act**
For the below, I will be using the most updated version of the Competition Act R.S.C., 1985, c. C-34, last amended on December 15, 2023 (https://laws.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/C-34/page-1.html) and the “Application of the Competition Act to Representations on the Internet” published by Competition Bureau Canada (https://publications.gc.ca/collections/collection\_2010/ic/Iu54-1-2009-eng.pdf)
*Section 2.2, Paragraph 4 of the Application of the Competition Act to Representations on the Internet*
“Businesses should not assume that consumers read an entire Web site, just as they do not read every word on a printed page. Accordingly, information required to be communicated to consumers to ensure that a representation does not create a false or misleading impression should be presented in such a fashion as to make it noticeable and likely to be read.”
Explanation: Section 2.2 applies to the average house price and accompanying figures (Figure 2). Realtor.ca shows the average house price in text and graph form but does not disclose that these are house and land price average if my calculations are accurate.
*Section 4.1, Paragraph 1 of the Application of the Competition Act to Representations on the Internet*
“If qualifying information is necessary to prevent a representation from being false or misleading when read on its own, businesses should present that information clearly and conspicuously. Businesses frequently use disclaimers, often signalled by an asterisk, to qualify the general impression of their principal representation when promoting their products or services. As mentioned earlier, the general impression conveyed by the representation, as well as its literal meaning, are taken into account in determining whether a representation is false or misleading.”
Explanation: Section 4.1 applies to Realtor.ca house price indices and other methodologies. A disclaimer in this case would be located within the same small paragraph above the figures. Instead, they use their own house price index to obfuscate their methodologies (Figure 2). Another option they give is below the graphs as “Ask a realtor for more detailed information” which creates an additional barrier to the users right under the Competition Act. Specifically, the “to qualify the general impression of their principal representation when promoting their products or services.” The “ask a realtor” hyperlink brings you to an additional page where you can find their realtors in your area. This is incentivizing the user to use their services over others to access more information. Realtor.ca has a majority market share in New Brunswick which further reinforces their monopolistic practices over real estate that hurts consumers.
*Section 4.1.3, Paragraph 1 of the Application of the Competition Act to Representations on the Internet*
“Businesses may effectively draw attention to a disclaimer so that it is more likely to be read by using attention-grabbing tools to display the disclaimer. In doing so, businesses must be careful not to design attention-grabbing tools in other parts of the advertisement in such a way that they distract the consumer’s attention away from the disclaimer, making it unlikely that the consumer will notice the disclaimer or recognize its importance.”
Explanation: Section 4.1.3 is further evidence of obfuscation and misrepresentation of their graphical aids and calculations. Similar to section 2.2 in the Application of the Competition Act to Representations on the Internet, Realtor.ca placed those figures at the bottom of the first page of listings to draw the user’s attention to their interpretation of data.
*Section 52 (1) of the Competition Act: False or misleading representations*
“No person shall, for the purpose of promoting, directly or indirectly, the supply or use of a product or for the purpose of promoting, directly or indirectly, any business interest, by any means whatever, knowingly or recklessly make a representation to the public that is false or misleading in a material respect.”
Explanation: Section 52 (1) is the main argument for this report. I believe that Realtor.ca knowingly or recklessly misrepresented the average house price in Fredericton using deceptive graphical aids and created a home price index to further obfuscate the methodology.
I am not a lawyer, so I could be misinterpreting the sections of the Competition Act. I believe Realtor.ca has reached the threshold of violating the Competition Act since Section 52.1.1 states:
“For greater certainty, in establishing that subsection (1) was contravened, it is not necessary to prove that (a) any person was deceived or misled; (b) any member of the public to whom the representation was made was within Canada; or (c) the representation was made in a place to which the public had access.”
This amendment to the Competition Act removed the threshold of proving that an individual or the public were deceived or misled. I believe that Realtor.ca has violated all three elements of section 52.1.1 ensuring that they have met the threshold of violating section 52.1 of the Competition Act.
**Conclusion**
I have given numerous caveats to my analysis, so it is possible I have come to the wrong conclusions given the lack of transparency in methodology and limited time frame. One thing I can conclude with certainty, is that Realtor.ca is misrepresenting market conditions through their figures displaying average house prices, pay gates to information, and methodology disclosures guised as a patented as a housing price index. I believe that Realtor.ca should make it clear to the user how their housing price index is calculated. Realtor.ca and the MLS system has succeeded in market capture and fights to keep this information pay gated to only people that benefit from these misleading claims. Regardless of their reasons, these monopolistic practices only benefit anyone under their system through the restriction of information to shape the way the public perceives the market conditions, a clear violation of the Competition Act and a disservice to the public.
There was a lot more I wanted to cover like if Statistics Canada (u/StatCanada) sourced their data from the MLS system and the broader implications of sourcing data that could be misrepresentation. Again, I could be wrong and would welcome any additional relevant information.
https://preview.redd.it/awfmkl0x6l0d1.png?width=1681&format=png&auto=webp&s=c9c4be8b6139c4f079ff343637b159b85e79cd3b
https://preview.redd.it/za540m0x6l0d1.png?width=3816&format=png&auto=webp&s=8c16fdcbc34795f46b38bdf502e1576fb43887dd
https://preview.redd.it/h5lz8p0x6l0d1.png?width=4166&format=png&auto=webp&s=3a76bdd71e64435fbaa38a768469d287b508946a
https://preview.redd.it/5qz74m0x6l0d1.png?width=3262&format=png&auto=webp&s=ab9363605bd6b31f324b5bb58f1fcc847f17a67b
submitted by PunnyHeals to newbrunswickcanada [link] [comments]


2024.05.15 14:47 PunnyHeals Misrepresentation of house price data by Realtor.ca

Misrepresentation of house price data by Realtor.ca
TL;DR:
  1. Realtor.ca claims the average sale price of a house in Fredericton, NB is $288,300. My own calculations point to the average being approximately $543,878.
  2. Realtor.ca most likely calculates it average house price using the average for houses and vacant land. My average for houses and land was $288,540, only a $240 difference, making this the most likely explanation.
  3. Realtor misrepresents graphs and averages through market capture, pay gating, and could be violating the Competition Act.
**Background**
I have been looking to buy a house for the past several years in the Fredericton area and have been checking the online listings regularly through Realtor.ca since it is the most common real estate listing website used in New Brunswick. What I liked about Realtor.ca was its ability to provide the average sell price for a house every month with graphs that showed the average sell price for a house in Fredericton for the past 12 months and 10 years. Looking for a house for an several years, I felt that I had a good idea of the market conditions and price ranges. My anecdotal evidence was that the average house price was much higher than Realtor.ca’s estimate of 288,300. I wondered if my anecdotal evidence could be supported by data.
The objective of this report is to collect list price data from all available listings within the Fredericton area. Once collected, I can take the average price and see if it matches the average price shown by Realtor.ca.
**Average/Median Methodology**
When you use Realtor.ca, you can filter results by the property type. There are six property type categories: Residential (single family home), condo/strata, vacant land, recreational, multi-family, and agriculture. For each of these property types, the asking price and address were copied into an Excel file. The data was collected on May 10, 2024, and included all listings within Fredericton; duplicate listings were removed.
Once all data was collected, the average and median for each property type was calculated (Table 1). I compared my calculated average to the Realtor.ca average to determine if my anecdotal evidence of thinking the average house price was higher than what Realtor.ca said was justified.
**Results**
There were 107 listings for residential houses (referred simply as “house” in this report), 245 listings for vacant land, 5 listings for recreational, 7 listings for multi-family, 2 listings for agriculture, and 10 listings for condos (Figure 1).
The average listing price was $543,878 for houses, $177,026 for land, $227,080 for recreation, $826,100 for multi-family, $829,450 for agriculture, and $317,410 for condos. The median listing price was $474,900 for houses, $64,900 for land, $229,900 for recreation, $799,000 for multi-family, $829,450 for agriculture, and $289,900 for condos (Table 1).
**Realtor.ca MLS System Average House Price Claim**
When you search for “houses for sale in Fredericton, NB”, you will see the top search results show Realtor.ca. This is not uncommon since Realtor.ca and its Multiple Listing Service (MLS) have the highest number of listings of any other online real estate listing service for the Fredericton, NB, area. Having most real estate listings concentrated on one system can provide users with a general idea of greater market conditions beyond individual listings, such as averages and trends for cities. Realtor.ca provides this data in the form of “Market Price (CAD)” price trends for the past 12 months, and price trends for the past 10 years (Figure 2). These figures are prominently displayed at the end of the first page of the Fredericton real estate listings (URL: https://www.realtor.ca/nb/fredericton/real-estate).
This leads us to the first claim by the Realtor.ca MLS system claim and our initial objective of this report.
Claim: The average market price in Fredericton sits at $288,300 as of May, 2024.
Analysis: When a user views these figures, it is a safe assumption that when a price is displayed, the user is inclined to believe that “Market Price (CAD)” is the average house price in Fredericton. This is further reinforced if the user reads the description above the figures which states:
“Use our home price trends to better gauge local market conditions and plan your next move. The graphs below show benchmark or average prices of homes sold in the area. Data generated by MLS® Systems and the MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) — Canada’s most advanced tool to gauge local home price levels and trends.”
This small paragraph specifically states, “The graphs below show benchmark or average prices of homes sold in the area.” Based off the graphs and their statement, we can safely interpret that Realtor.ca is explicitly saying that the average home price in Fredericton, NB, currently sits at $288,300; leaving no room for interpretation on how the data can be viewed. The reason I wanted to be explicitly clear on this thought process is that if you look back at the results section of this paper (Table 1) and see that the calculated average of all house listings was $543,878, it represents an 88.65% difference. A couple assumptions that could explain this difference are:
  1. The listings used in the analysis are only a snapshot in time and could not represent an accurate or precise representation of the monthly price average.
  2. Houses that were listed below the average could be selling more quickly, giving us a skewed data set that is not representative of all listings that have been posted.
  3. Realtor.ca gives the average sell price for houses in Fredericton and not the average listing price. There could be a large discrepancy between sell price and list price, resulting in my calculated average being inflated.
The three assumptions made above introduce bias into my conclusions, but given the magnitude of those differences, it could be reasonable to assume there might be an alternative reason causing these discrepancies.
Since there is such a large discrepancy in my calculated average and the average from Realtor.ca, I expanded my analysis to other categories. I combined my residential house data set with the other five property types to see if it would alter our initial average and how close it would come to the calculated Realtor.ca average (Table 2). Realtor.ca claims the average house price in Fredericton was $288,300, which seems to be closest to my calculated average for the combination of house and land listings. With the addition of these combinations, it suggests that Realtor.ca calculates average housing price using houses and land listings.
Realtor.ca MLS’s claim of the average house price in Fredericton, NB being $288,300 is a misrepresentation of the true market value and conditions. If a company were to calculate averages of an entire real estate market within an area, why would they only include house and land and not the other 4 categories?
**Misleading Representations by Realtor.ca**
The conclusions made from my analysis were made with plenty of explanations and assumptions. Given that the MLS system is a pay gated system, and their patented house price index algorithms are private, I feel it is reasonable to assume that my data is closer to true market prices. This leads us to the next question, if my data isn’t correct, why are the figures, calculations, and methodology misleading users on market conditions? The average user is not going to spend a significant amount of time manually collecting data and putting it into Excel to double check Realtor.ca. The company is the largest multiple listing system used in New Brunswick and holding that status comes with some form of implicit trust that the public holds for information it publishes. In this section, I will lay out sections and guidelines from the Competition Act and why I believe that Realtor.ca is violating the Act.
**Competition Act**
For the below, I will be using the most updated version of the Competition Act R.S.C., 1985, c. C-34, last amended on December 15, 2023 (https://laws.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/C-34/page-1.html) and the “Application of the Competition Act to Representations on the Internet” published by Competition Bureau Canada (https://publications.gc.ca/collections/collection\_2010/ic/Iu54-1-2009-eng.pdf)
*Section 2.2, Paragraph 4 of the Application of the Competition Act to Representations on the Internet*
“Businesses should not assume that consumers read an entire Web site, just as they do not read every word on a printed page. Accordingly, information required to be communicated to consumers to ensure that a representation does not create a false or misleading impression should be presented in such a fashion as to make it noticeable and likely to be read.”
Explanation: Section 2.2 applies to the average house price and accompanying figures (Figure 2). Realtor.ca shows the average house price in text and graph form but does not disclose that these are house and land price average if my calculations are accurate.
*Section 4.1, Paragraph 1 of the Application of the Competition Act to Representations on the Internet*
“If qualifying information is necessary to prevent a representation from being false or misleading when read on its own, businesses should present that information clearly and conspicuously. Businesses frequently use disclaimers, often signalled by an asterisk, to qualify the general impression of their principal representation when promoting their products or services. As mentioned earlier, the general impression conveyed by the representation, as well as its literal meaning, are taken into account in determining whether a representation is false or misleading.”
Explanation: Section 4.1 applies to Realtor.ca house price indices and other methodologies. A disclaimer in this case would be located within the same small paragraph above the figures. Instead, they use their own house price index to obfuscate their methodologies (Figure 2). Another option they give is below the graphs as “Ask a realtor for more detailed information” which creates an additional barrier to the users right under the Competition Act. Specifically, the “to qualify the general impression of their principal representation when promoting their products or services.” The “ask a realtor” hyperlink brings you to an additional page where you can find their realtors in your area. This is incentivizing the user to use their services over others to access more information. Realtor.ca has a majority market share in New Brunswick which further reinforces their monopolistic practices over real estate that hurts consumers.
*Section 4.1.3, Paragraph 1 of the Application of the Competition Act to Representations on the Internet*
“Businesses may effectively draw attention to a disclaimer so that it is more likely to be read by using attention-grabbing tools to display the disclaimer. In doing so, businesses must be careful not to design attention-grabbing tools in other parts of the advertisement in such a way that they distract the consumer’s attention away from the disclaimer, making it unlikely that the consumer will notice the disclaimer or recognize its importance.”
Explanation: Section 4.1.3 is further evidence of obfuscation and misrepresentation of their graphical aids and calculations. Similar to section 2.2 in the Application of the Competition Act to Representations on the Internet, Realtor.ca placed those figures at the bottom of the first page of listings to draw the user’s attention to their interpretation of data.
*Section 52 (1) of the Competition Act: False or misleading representations*
“No person shall, for the purpose of promoting, directly or indirectly, the supply or use of a product or for the purpose of promoting, directly or indirectly, any business interest, by any means whatever, knowingly or recklessly make a representation to the public that is false or misleading in a material respect.”
Explanation: Section 52 (1) is the main argument for this report. I believe that Realtor.ca knowingly or recklessly misrepresented the average house price in Fredericton using deceptive graphical aids and created a home price index to further obfuscate the methodology.
I am not a lawyer, so I could be misinterpreting the sections of the Competition Act. I believe Realtor.ca has reached the threshold of violating the Competition Act since Section 52.1.1 states:
“For greater certainty, in establishing that subsection (1) was contravened, it is not necessary to prove that (a) any person was deceived or misled; (b) any member of the public to whom the representation was made was within Canada; or (c) the representation was made in a place to which the public had access.”
This amendment to the Competition Act removed the threshold of proving that an individual or the public were deceived or misled. I believe that Realtor.ca has violated all three elements of section 52.1.1 ensuring that they have met the threshold of violating section 52.1 of the Competition Act.
**Conclusion**
I have given numerous caveats to my analysis, so it is possible I have come to the wrong conclusions given the lack of transparency in methodology and limited time frame. One thing I can conclude with certainty, is that Realtor.ca is misrepresenting market conditions through their figures displaying average house prices, pay gates to information, and methodology disclosures guised as a patented as a housing price index. I believe that Realtor.ca should make it clear to the user how their housing price index is calculated. Realtor.ca and the MLS system has succeeded in market capture and fights to keep this information pay gated to only people that benefit from these misleading claims. Regardless of their reasons, these monopolistic practices only benefit anyone under their system through the restriction of information to shape the way the public perceives the market conditions, a clear violation of the Competition Act and a disservice to the public.
There was a lot more I wanted to cover like if Statistics Canada (u/StatCanada) sourced their data from the MLS system and the broader implications of sourcing data that could be misrepresentation. Again, I could be wrong and would welcome any additional relevant information.
https://preview.redd.it/rnsd41ym6l0d1.png?width=1681&format=png&auto=webp&s=51589de251bac87748c5ee7e9f0c24a2408fc4a0
https://preview.redd.it/apw3q2ym6l0d1.png?width=3816&format=png&auto=webp&s=3d0ce2c2c103032e343793ae147411338d107375
https://preview.redd.it/bi9hg2ym6l0d1.png?width=4166&format=png&auto=webp&s=911c5cfd60b58f658e0048552760efc2ec785561
https://preview.redd.it/ki25gaym6l0d1.png?width=3262&format=png&auto=webp&s=3dd741f4fead9c6782e24c8193062135238209d5
submitted by PunnyHeals to fredericton [link] [comments]


2024.05.15 14:19 Dawson81702 Introducing the Realtime Weather Concept: Oil Storms

Introducing the Realtime Weather Concept: Oil Storms

Oil Storm Cycles

What are Oil Storm Cycles?
Not to be confused with Rainmaker's Oil Rain (Sorry, Misty!)
Due to the construction and pollution from the multitude of Cog buildings, the environment of Toontown is adversely affected, leading to altered weather patterns that cause Oil Storms to fall upon Toontown.

What do Oil Storms do?

Effects on Cogs:
  • Hydrates and lubricates Cogs, enhancing their power and productivity.
  • Increases Cog health and damage by 10%.
  • Boosts Cog battle join rates by 50%.*
Effects on Toons:
  • Toons remain unaffected due to their strong will and courage.

What's in it for Toons?

Rewards:
  • 3x Cog Promotion Merits.*
  • Extra Experience Point.*
  • 50% increased chance of obtaining rare Manager Stickers.
  • Potential use in Kudos Manager Boss battles (subject to Toontown team's discretion).

What does an Oil Storm look like?

Visuals:
  • Smog appears over Toontown playgrounds and streets.
  • Darkened skies, playgrounds, and streets, with oil falling from the clouds.
  • Similar to the rain effects from the Rainmaker manager battle and Toontown Rewritten's Bossbot HQ area, so this is already implemented in a way.
Concept Images:
Times are gloomy in Toontown Central..
Now Barnacle Boatyards looking more like a sea port!
Cheer up Toon, The storm will be over soon!
Really adds to the atmosphere, eh?
Wherever the Oil Storm is currently, a large cloud of smog would appear over that playground.
Alternative, with an icon along with the original dynamic cog invasion icon.
Attention all Toons! An Oil Storm is approaching!

How would Oil Storms work?

Implementation Method:
Allowing for dynamic control of the weather, an Oil Storm would be able to happen independently at specific playgrounds and districts at any time, For example: An Oil Storm could be at TTC, DDL, YOTT, BB, while the have none, while in another district it could be the opposite; no two playgrounds are bound to each other!
A way you could allow each playground to work independently is from the formula below.
  • Calculating Cog Building Impact
    • Every 15 minutes, the number of buildings in a playground is calculated to set a percentage value for Oil Storm likelihood.
    • This dynamic implementation is akin to how the Cog tier affects playground invasions in TTCC.
  • Logarithmic Curve Formula:
    • Formula: y = 1 - e^-z(x)
    • Variables:
      • x = Number of Cog Buildings in the playground.
      • y = Percentage chance (0 to 1) of starting an Oil Storm cycle (maximum 60% chance).
      • z = Variable controlling curve steepness (default -0.03).
      • e = Mathematical constant (approx. 2.71828).
  • Process:
    • Every 15 minutes, a number from 1 to 100 is rolled.
    • If the number is ≤ the percentage, Oil Storm occurs; if > the percentage, it doesn’t.
    • Toons in that playground receive a 5-minute warning via a Weather Forecast alert to evacuate or prepare for Oil Storm.
Real-World Test Data (at Midnight Toontown Time):
Anvil Acres and Geyser Gulch were the least populated districts without invasions, and High-Dive Hills was the most popular district with an invasion.
Playground Anvil Acres Geyser Gulch High-Dive Hills
Toontown Central 6 7 1
Barnacle Boatyard 20 20 19
Ye Olde Toontowne 18 18 17
Daffodil Gardens 18 18 17
Mezzo Melodyland 31 31 31
The Brrrgh 30 30 30
Acorn Acres 28 28 28
Drowsy Dreamland 29 30 30
Hmm, I noticed a very distinct pattern here... Anyways, putting these values into the Formula would give a
  • Calculated Maximum Values for Oil Storm Chance:
    • Toontown Central: 19%
    • Barnacle Boatyard: 45%
    • Ye Olde Toontowne: 42%
    • Daffodil Gardens: 42%
    • Mezzo Melodyland: 61%
    • The Brrrgh: 59%
    • Acorn Acres: 57%
    • Drowsy Dreamland: 59%
I think these values are fine as this is for the maximum building values that I encountered which would be rare during peak times, but the z variable can be altered to change the results of each district separately.

Combating Oil Storms

There should be a way that Toons can combat this Hour of Power.. Or Oil Rain.
Toon Strategy:
  • A Toon can combat an Oil Storm by taking over the Cog Buildings and decreasing the Cog Buildings in that playground, this in turn decreases the percentage chance that an Oil Rain cycle happens next cycle.

FAQ

Isn't this just the Rainmaker Oil Rain mechanic?
In the sense that...
While similar, The Oil Storm cycle provides a dynamic weather system to Corporate Clash (or Toontown Rewritten) making the game more immersive, adds lore, and adds more opportunities for different strategies to come into play, perchance. YOU CAN'T JUST SAY PERCHANCE.
Could the game even handle a Dynamic Weather cycle?
I don't know, I'm not a developer or staff member, but what I do know is there are a lot of strong willed people out there that have had the strength and courage to uplift a long gone videogame to bring into the future for not only the people of the past to enjoy what once was, but for newcomers to join and participate in such a wonderful game!
I'm talking to you, TTR and CC staff! \)and smaller servers, no offence meant.\)
Plus, concerning lag and performance issues, If Oil Storm cycles were implemented into the game, it wouldn't come close to the Acorn Acres' Waterfall. (BURN!) (someone call an Ambulance Chaser!)
Wouldn't this just clutter the game more than it is needed?
Perhaps, but with the fine tuning of the Toontown developers this mechanic could become something great! You could even make this an event as a Spring event only!
Here are some reasons why Oil Storm cycles would benefit Toontown:
  • Enhances Gameplay Depth
    • Dynamic Challenges
      • Oil Storm introduces dynamic environmental challenges that keep gameplay fresh and engaging, preventing the experience from becoming monotonous and boring.
    • Strategic Planning
      • Players need to strategize and adapt to changing conditions, which adds a layer of depth and complexity to their gameplay decisions.
  • Offers Meaningful Rewards
    • Increased Incentives
      • The mechanic provides substantial rewards, such as 3x Cog Promotion Merits, extra Experience Points, and a higher chance of rare Manager Stickers, which incentivize players to engage with the new feature.
    • Optional Engagement
      • Toons have the choice to either face the Storm for rewards or avoid it, giving them control over their gameplay experience.
  • Integrates Seamlessly with Existing Mechanics
    • Familiar Visuals
      • The visual effects of Oil Storm are similar to existing weather effects in the game, ensuring consistency and familiarity for players.
    • Proven Mechanics
      • The implementation leverages existing game mechanics (e.g., particle effects from the Rainmaker manager battle), ensuring technical feasibility and reducing the risk of introducing bugs or performance issues.
  • Enhances Game Lore and Immersion
    • Narrative Depth
      • The Oil Storm mechanic ties into the game’s lore, explaining the environmental impact of Cog activities and enriching the game's narrative.
    • Immersive Experience
      • The changing weather conditions add to the immersive experience, making the game world feel more alive and responsive to in-game actions. This would be akin to when they first animated the street props when the silly meter was unveiled long ago.
  • Promotes Player Cooperation and Engagement
    • Community Goals
      • Encourages players to work together to reduce Cog buildings and prevent Oil Storms, fostering a sense of community and shared objectives.
    • New Task Lines
      • The Oil Storm cycle could add new Task lines to the game, increasing playability and rewards for Toons to achieve!
    • Active Participation
      • Keeps players engaged with continuous, time-sensitive goals, motivating them to log in and participate more frequently.
The addition of a weather cycle not only enhances gameplay and visuals, but also incentivizes the player into defeating more Cogs and buildings, enriching the game's lore and offering new challenges and rewards for players.
*Be aware that none of this concept is limited to itself, It is entirely up the the game developers to pick and choose what would be best for addition into the game!
And hey, this isn't limited to Corporate Clash, would anyone like a Space Toontown Server Race? Heheh. I hope I have been clear on my concept and have gotten your attention thus far. Feel free to comment your ideas below.
Thank you all, and have a Toontastic day!
~ Green Dawg
About me: My Toon name is Green Dawg and I've been playing Toontown since 2008. I also have a website I built myself for Toons that need help with cog promotions.
You can find it by searching "Green Dawgs Guide", Check it out!
TL;DR: This is just a big excuse to get real time weather cycles into the game.
TL;DR TL;DR: Rainmaker from Wish
submitted by Dawson81702 to Toontown [link] [comments]


2024.05.15 14:18 HeadBoy9 Prison days #355, #356, #357 (Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, 12, 13, 14, 2024)

Many turbulent waters have passed under a very narrow bridge these past three days. We feared fear itself on a different level and experienced some of the biggest stress we have in a very long time. We were locked almost 24 hours (20 minutes of open-out time on Monday and Tuesday).
Considering that most of us don't eat the prison rations, we hungered and thirst greatly. At some points food and water became scarce in the entire yard. Bread was completely unavailable and treated and packaged water was spent. All sellers sold out within the first 20 minutes of opening on Monday. Since there was nothing entering or leaving, by Tuesday afternoon, no food or water could be found at any cell or anywhere within the yard.
Remember, the first news of an imminent search came on Saturday night (Day #354) and we did an emergency hiding of our phones. We were all scared and restless, the hiding wasn't safe, we only hid anywhere that looked like something could be put in it. It was already late when this info came and we were all already locked in and couldn't, well, go out, so we only did our hidings within and around. During the day, the following morning, we used our phones until locking time before the hiding began again and stretched into the night. (I'm talking about Sunday evening/night now).
I sent mine along with the accessories to the workshop for safekeeping while others hid theirs in many creative ways. Officially, cells collected their phones together in a plastic bucket and holes were dug within the blocks and they were buried. This was done under the cover of night.
COs opened our cells and instructed us to do it and make sure no contraband remained in any cell as this would always bounce back on them. They didn't want that and so had to aid us. The external search party that came was directly from the nation's capital (HQ of corrections) and were therefore superior to any officer in this facility. Even superior to the state comptroller of corrections. It was a pretty tense situation for us inmates and as well for them COs.
On Sunday night, I slept quite well after we'd hidden our phones and stuff, mine in the toilet at the workshop and others majorly buried in the ground inside blocks. Early in the morning on Monday, when the search was to begin, was when we had the most anxiety. The cells and blocks were just too troublingly quiet. I mean it was so quiet it was deafening, literally. Like a pressure built up in my two ears and everything paused and people moved in slow motion, kind of quiet.
Suspense. Suspense. Suspense. In the morning, before they eventually showed up, we were dying of suspense. Being fortunate as a result of the positioning of our cell, we have a window that can see a greater part of the yard, as well as the main gate far up front. For this morning, everyone wanted to stand at that window and mount the sentry. Thump, thump, thump our hearts thumped and silence remained deafening.
Finally they started trickling in with swag after some waiting. Big, mean looking dogs pulled by big muscled, mean looking COs, were in front, and came charging in. These hellhounds looked as though they had a score to settle with the inhabitants of this hell and would tear them and their abode apart if they got the chance. They didn't!
I'm talking Monday morning now.
Some dramas unfolded that wouldn't permit the hounds to have their fun. What happened was that immediately the search company entered, they turned left and began marching to Back Cell. This is the place where the hardest death row inmates are kept. So, as soon as these condemned guys knew they were coming, they let out such demonic shouts that rent and vibrated the previously unsettlingly quiet atmosphere, cursings and threatenings of stabbings and stranglings, and forced feeding the intruders their overnight shit defecated into plastic containers, echoed.
Such terrible roars their shouts were. The other two blocks, besides Back Cell, where death row inmates are kept, on hearing their fellows, also joined in on the bawl. As Back Cell shouted one thing, it was picked up by the other two blocks, rebounded and volleyed back into the uttermost parts of the prison. They sort of formed a shout transmission triangle.
This development was psychological, calculated and halted our unwanted visitors dead in their tracks. Men who were as good as dead had told them they weren't wanted and would have their deaths fast-forwarded if they advanced further. Their march now paused, they had no choice but to think deeply about all the possible options. To be sure, the losers would be them if they chose to engage foolishly. Dead men have nothing to lose, you know?
After much consideration, the company put forward the Chief of the yard and the resident Deputy Comptroller of Corrections (DCC) to go reason with their dead men. They did and the men told them the only thing they could promise them was deaths if anyone dared to step beyond their designated buffer zone.
Back Cell won. The company then had to send their war dogs out of the yard and adopted a more friendly mien all in a bid to diffuse tension and tone down aggressions. I would say it worked because the shouts died down and the next death row block they turned to cooperated and the search began.
They were very thorough and took a lot of stuff but surprisingly very few phones (already buried, yo!). Knives, belts, bottles, electric stoves and kettles were all taken. Gold blings of all types and serious cash were found and confiscated from the rich blocks. Contrary to expectation, the workshop where my stuff was hidden was searched. I died immediately they marched in there and remained dead, though walking around, until the next day. Not knowing if they took my things was harder and more torture than if they'd actually taken it and I knew immediately. I suffered for hours.
My block wasn't visited until Tuesday. By this time, the searchers were already spent and the aggression had left them and returned to their HQ (lol). The tendency to be dicks and bullies had fizzled out, now they were too nice. I needed to check if I hadn't woken at the Four Seasons somehow for how civil they were.
Tell you what? Technically, they didn't search our cell. As soon as the searchers arrived at our block, our cell being the first, they gathered in front. One got very close to our gate and codedly asked that we arrange money and give him so he wouldn't search us and we did. Turns out only five of the company were the ones allowed into the cells to do the actual searching and he was the leader of the five.
Having slipped money into his hand while we were moving out, they merely made a show of searching the bunks closest to the gate where their colleagues and Superiors stood, but took nothing out even if it was an exhibit. They didn't touch the bunks deeper inside at all. We were made to sit on the ground in front of our cell while they did their thing inside. After a while, they came out with only two laughable things and declared to their boss that our cell is clean (lolz, the money we gave them was equally clean).
Actually, why it was like that was that Authority didn't want us to be searched at all but had to do it to fulfill all righteousness. The DCC told them if they don't search everyone, fighting would break out. The people searched and their things seized would cause trouble. So they only came to our block not to search but for show. Our block has the most impeccable record of any block and our cell stands out of any cell in the block for good behavior.
I later understood that the search was originally targeted at the death row guys at Back Cell, Blocks One and Two, and B block. Other places searched were only as a matter of necessity to serve as cover and to even things out and not hurt already hurt feelings. Principally, it was that transgender in Block Two that singlehandedly attracted and brought this search upon us. He was using his phone recklessly on social media, doing live videos and shits. The extent of his popularity gave his actions a lot of visibility and a lot of powerful people saw it, hence the searchlight fell on prisons.
When it was all over (Tuesday evening), they opened us for only 20 minutes to stretch our limbs but that was just all we needed. Everything buried in the ground was uprooted and I got my phone from the workshop as well. Belts and other things followed later. Hunger and thirst was tough on us these few days. Honestly, prison would be unbearable without our phones, many of us found out during this period. I rest my pen for now.
Tomorrow is Wednesday and normalcy will return. I'm almost thinking: why go through all that trouble for nothing? I may as well have had my stuff tucked away under my bunk and be safe. Anyway, better safe than sorry.
Goodnight Diary!
submitted by HeadBoy9 to PrisonDiary [link] [comments]


2024.05.15 14:00 Mandelbrot1611 No matter what you try to do to this triangle, its surface area is ten

Here's a funny graph I made. No matter how you move the vertices of this triangle, its surface area will always be exactly ten.
https://www.desmos.com/calculatocmfoblotfl
submitted by Mandelbrot1611 to desmos [link] [comments]


2024.05.15 13:24 ThonyHR Can someone give me very subtle hints on what to do now because I feel stuck

Hi ! I've put around 9 hours in Fez for now and I'm loving it. I love trying to understand what the game want from me but I feel a bit stuck right now. I'd be very happy if someone could give me some advice, nothing too revealing please, I still want to understand the game by myself. This is where I am :
I have no idea what to do with :
What I'd like to understand the most is how to read and how to do calculations. I tried to understand so hard by myself but I don't have any idea how to translate those weird squares into letters. I also know I need to understand how to calculate using the board in the school of the broken city but I don't get it.
Maybe just tell me where I can find the most useful info on how to understand those two concepts ?
Is there some bruteforce I need to do somewhere in order to better understand something ?
Thanks a lot for your help !
submitted by ThonyHR to Fez [link] [comments]


2024.05.15 12:35 adyaraghuwanshi 9 Things To Check Before Buying A Commercial Plot in Jodhpur

9 Things To Check Before Buying A Commercial Plot in Jodhpur
https://preview.redd.it/ti52u41wik0d1.png?width=1280&format=png&auto=webp&s=e0d20fd4171145f74586c6f4f0e6181198de31d6
Investing in commercial real estate can be a lucrative venture, offering opportunities for wealth creation, business growth, and long-term financial stability. Jodhpur, with its rich cultural heritage, strategic location, and vibrant economy, is a prime destination for commercial real estate investment.
However, before taking the plunge into the world of commercial property ownership, it's essential to conduct thorough due diligence and carefully evaluate the potential risks and rewards. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore nine crucial factors to check before buying a commercial plot in Jodhpur, empowering you to make informed decisions and maximize the value of your investment.

1. Location, Location, Location

The old adage holds true in commercial real estate: location is paramount. Before buying a commercial plot in Jodhpur, carefully consider the location and its proximity to key amenities, transportation hubs, business districts, and target demographics.
A prime location with high visibility, accessibility, and foot traffic can significantly enhance the value and desirability of your commercial property, attracting tenants and customers alike.
Additionally, evaluate the surrounding area for future development prospects, infrastructure projects, and zoning regulations that may impact the property's value and potential for growth.

2. Zoning and Land Use Regulations

Understanding zoning regulations and land use restrictions is essential when buying a commercial plot in Jodhpur. Zoning laws dictate how a property can be used and developed, specifying permissible uses, building heights, setbacks, parking requirements, and other restrictions.
Before purchasing a commercial plot, review the local zoning ordinances and consult with municipal authorities to ensure compliance with zoning regulations and obtain necessary permits for your intended use. Additionally, consider future changes in zoning laws or land use designations that may affect the property's value and suitability for your business needs.

3. Infrastructure and Utilities

Access to reliable infrastructure and utilities is critical for the success of commercial properties. Before buying a commercial plot in Jodhpur, assess the availability and adequacy of essential infrastructure such as roads, water supply, sewage systems, electricity, and telecommunications.
Verify the accessibility of the property from major roads and highways, as well as the availability of utility connections and service providers. Inadequate infrastructure or utility services can hinder business operations and deter tenants, so it's essential to ensure that the property meets your requirements for connectivity and functionality.

4. Market Dynamics and Demand

Understanding market dynamics and demand drivers is crucial for assessing the viability of commercial real estate investments. Before buying a commercial plot in Jodhpur, conduct market research to identify current trends, demand-supply dynamics, and emerging opportunities in the local commercial real estate market.
Evaluate factors such as population growth, economic indicators, industry trends, and competitive landscape to gauge the demand for commercial space in Jodhpur and assess the potential rental income or resale value of the property. Additionally, consider the unique needs and preferences of target tenants or buyers to tailor your investment strategy accordingly.

5. Financial Feasibility and ROI

Analyzing the financial feasibility and return on investment (ROI) is essential when buying a commercial plot in Jodhpur. Assess the acquisition cost, development expenses, financing options, and projected cash flows to determine the financial viability of the investment.
Calculate key financial metrics such as net present value (NPV), internal rate of return (IRR), and capitalization rate (cap rate) to evaluate the potential return on investment and compare it with alternative investment opportunities. Additionally, consider factors such as rental yield, vacancy rates, and operating expenses to assess the property's income-generating potential and long-term sustainability.

6. Title and Legal Due Diligence

Conducting thorough title and legal due diligence is essential to ensure clear and marketable title when buying a commercial plot in Jodhpur. Obtain a copy of the property's title deed and review it carefully to verify ownership rights, encumbrances, liens, and any legal disputes or restrictions that may affect the property's transferability or use.
Engage a qualified legal advisor or property lawyer to conduct a comprehensive title search, review relevant documentation, and verify compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and local ordinances. Additionally, consider obtaining title insurance to protect against potential title defects or claims that may arise in the future.

7. Environmental Considerations

Assessing environmental risks and compliance requirements is essential when buying a commercial plot in Jodhpur. Conduct an environmental site assessment (ESA) to identify potential environmental hazards, contamination, or liabilities associated with the property, such as soil or groundwater pollution, hazardous materials, or regulatory violations.
Engage qualified environmental consultants or experts to evaluate the property's environmental condition, assess remediation options, and ensure compliance with environmental regulations and disclosure requirements. Addressing environmental concerns upfront can mitigate risks, protect your investment, and enhance the property's marketability and resale value.

8. Development Potential and Flexibility

Exploring the development potential and flexibility of the commercial plot is essential for maximizing its value and adaptability to future needs. Evaluate the property's zoning designation, permissible land uses, and development regulations to assess its potential for expansion, redevelopment, or adaptive reuse.
Consider factors such as lot size, shape, topography, and access constraints when envisioning potential development scenarios and determining the feasibility of your plans. Additionally, assess the flexibility of zoning regulations and land use designations to accommodate changes in market demand, business requirements, or regulatory changes over time.

9. Due Diligence and Professional Advice

Finally, conducting thorough due diligence and seeking professional advice are critical steps when buying a commercial plot in Jodhpur. Engage qualified real estate professionals, including real estate agents, property consultants, architects, engineers, and legal advisors, to assist you throughout the purchase process.
Conduct on-site inspections, property surveys, and feasibility studies to gather relevant information and assess the property's condition, suitability, and investment potential.
Additionally, leverage the expertise and experience of industry professionals to navigate complex legal, financial, and regulatory considerations and make informed decisions that align with your investment objectives and risk tolerance.

Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions in Commercial Real Estate

In conclusion, buying a commercial property for rent in jodhpur is a significant investment decision that requires careful consideration of numerous factors, including location, zoning, infrastructure, market dynamics, financial feasibility, legal due diligence, environmental considerations, development potential, and professional advice.
By conducting thorough due diligence, evaluating market conditions, and seeking expert guidance, you can mitigate risks, capitalize on opportunities, and make informed decisions that align with your investment goals and objectives.
Whether you're acquiring property for business expansion, rental income, or long-term appreciation, investing in commercial real estate in Jodhpur offers the potential for wealth creation, portfolio diversification, and lasting value in the vibrant commercial landscape of Rajasthan's historic city.
submitted by adyaraghuwanshi to u/adyaraghuwanshi [link] [comments]


2024.05.15 12:00 AutoModerator Daily r/LawnCare No Stupid Questions Thread

Please use this thread to ask any lawn care questions that you may have. There are no stupid questions. This includes weed, fungus, insect, and grass identification. For help on asking a question, please refer to the "How to Get the Most out of Your Post" section at the top of the sidebar.
Check out the sidebar if you're interested in more information on plant hardiness zones, identifying problems, weed control, fertilizer, establishing grass, and organic methods. Also, you may contact your local Cooperative Extension Service for local info.
How to Get the Most out of Your Post:
Include a photo of the problem. You can upload to imgur.com for free and it's easy to do. One photo should contain enough information for people to understand the immediate area around the problem (dense shade, extremely sloped, etc.). Other photos should include close-ups of the grass or weed in question: such as this, this, or this. The more photos or context to the situation will help us identify the problem and propose some solutions.
Useful Links:
Guides & Calculators: Measure Your Lawn Make a Property Map Herbicide Application Calculators Fertilizing Lawns Grow From Seed Grow From Sod Organic Lawn Care Other Lawn Calculators
Lawn Pest Control: Weeds & What To Use Common Weeds What's Wrong Here? How To Spray Weeds MSU Weed ID Tool Is This a Weed? Herbicide Types ID Turf Diseases Fungi & Control Options Insects & Control Options
Fertilizing: Fertilizing Lawns How To Spread Granular Fertilizer Natural Lawn Care Fertilizer Calculator
US Cooperative Extension Services: Arkansas - University of Arkansas California - UC Davis Florida - University of Florida Indiana - Purdue University Nebraska - University of Nebraska-Lincoln New Hampshire - The University of New Hampshire New Jersey - Rutgers University New York - Cornell University Ohio - The Ohio State University Oregon - Oregon State University Texas - Texas A&M Vermont - The University of Vermont
Canadian Cooperative Extension Services: Ontario - University of Guelph
Recurring Threads:
Daily No Stupid Questions Thread Mowsday Monday Treatment Tuesday Weed ID Wednesday That Didn't Go Well Thursday Finally Friday: Weekend Lawn Plans Soil Saturday Lawn of the Month Monthly Mower Megathread Monthly Professionals Podium Tri-Annual Thatch Thread Quarterly Seed & Sod Megathread
submitted by AutoModerator to lawncare [link] [comments]


2024.05.15 11:26 MojordomosEUW A quick tip for people having issues sharpening Fuji files

So, you might have come across the infamous 'wormy' artifacts when you sharpen Fujifilm images from the 'older' Bayer Sensor generation (X-Pro2, X-T2,...).
This is due to how Lightroom calculates for deconvoluted sharpening. Their algorithm doesn't really go well with those RAW files. There are some other editing suites out there, like Capture One (not free) and Darktable (free) which do a better job at sharpening these files, but they are also not good.
What I always do to sharpen my Fuji images is the following:
  1. Set the sharpening to 0 in Lightroom
  2. Open the image in Photoshop.
  3. Copy the layer twice (CTRL + J)
  4. Click on the middle layer.
  5. Click Filter -> Sharpen -> Unsharp Mask
  6. Move the sliders to these values: 150% / 0.5 / Threshold: Depends on the image, usually anywhere 0 - 30
  7. Click Okay
  8. Select the upper layer.
  9. Click Filter -> Other > High Pass
  10. Set it to 2.4
  11. Click Okay
  12. Set the layer to Vivid Light.
  13. Double click on the right side of the layer.
  14. Where it says 'Underlying layer', move the white double triangle slider to ~125
  15. Alt click the white double triangle slider
  16. Move the right triangle slider to 150, let the left triangle slider stay at 125
  17. Click OK.
  18. Hold shift and select both sharpening layers.
  19. Hit CTRL + G to group them.
  20. Now you can add a mask to the group and paint the sharpening only to a face or any other subject if you don't want to sharpen out of focus elements, you can decrease the opacity of the individual layers in the group, you can decrease the entire groups opacity,...
You can also make an action to make all of this instant. Instead of using Blend If (where we double clicked on the right side of the Vivid Light layer, the one with the High Pass filter) you can simply click on the gray layer icon and make a Darks1 luminocity mask and apply that as a layer mask to this High Pass layer. This is done to avoid any halos or artifacts that might make this look weird. We simply push the sharpening into the darker parts of the image. Since sharpening is basically just a very strong contrast of light and dark between adjacent pixels, this method works really well.
This method can also be done with non Fuji files to get professional looking sharpening that you can fully control.
I hope you found this helpful, thanks for attending my Ted Talk lol (seriously, this looks longer than it actually is, it's just a few easy clicks - i just explained in detail for people who might not now the intricacies of Photoshop)
submitted by MojordomosEUW to postprocessing [link] [comments]


2024.05.15 09:19 thisvideoiswrong Quick Looks 3: Vo'Quv Carrier

By my count, there are 15 T5 ships available for just dilithium or a level 40 token, which someone might want a starter build for to help them finish off the episode missions and start the reputation grind. My Strict Budget Build covers the three science vessels, the Baby Step series covers the three cruisers with tactical ensigns, Quick Looks 1 and 2 cover the Hegh'ta Bird of Prey and the Jem'hadar Escort, and there's definitely an argument to be made that some are just bad choices. But there was one more I wanted to take a look at here. This series will not be as thoroughly researched as those previous series, and it will not feature optimized skill builds (there are many resources for that), but the builds will be proven in the Badlands Battlezone and in solo Defense of Starbase One Advanced, as well as extensively parsed in the Wanted (Argala System) patrol with comparisons to similar builds. That should adequately demonstrate that they can get you whatever reputation marks you need, using only mission, basic (generally Mk XII uncommon) Exchange, and Phoenix Store items. Each build will be allowed one Mk XV item to maintain parity with the Strict Budget Build, usually a forward weapon. It's also easy enough to put these together that I could be persuaded to do more if there's a ship that deserves it.
So, why the Vo'Quv? Well it's in the name, it's a carrier. Hangar bays are expensive to boost in this game, but that means they have to be balanced to have pretty good base damage. In this case the two hangars did more than half the damage of most of the other builds in this series with hardly any support for them. The downside to carriers is that they often sacrifice a lot for those hangars. Not so for Flight Deck Carriers, which are pretty much full cruisers, or any of the single hangar types, but the science carriers like the Vo'Quv don't really have an obvious path to getting ship damage, especially on this budget. Their turn rate is terrible, which is a problem for most things, they have only 6 weapons so getting a lot from energy weapons is out, and they don't have a secondary deflector, which did do more on my science vessel build than the hangars did here.
So where did I end up, then? Well, with 6 science ability slots and not a ton of options I couldn't see not using them for some direct exotic damage. And since that required me to face forward, and the turn rate was terrible and I couldn't do much about it, I concluded that I'd have to use turrets in the rear with either beam arrays or single cannons forward, the two widest arc weapon combinations possible apart from pure turrets, although their damage potential is limited. The Chronometric set also seemed like a must have, providing a large amount of EPG and some Polaron cat1 from the tac console, and a bit of aux power from the 2 piece, but I wasn't sure whether I'd want the Morphogenic set or not, since it would mean sacrificing a cannon. Then, I went to the TRINITY DPS Calculator from STO BETTER and started plugging in some rough options. Single cannons outperformed beam arrays even with the Chronometric 3 piece, so that settled that, and getting the crtd from the Morphogenic 3 piece and Cannon Scatter Volley was well worth losing a forward cannon for the torp. Attack Pattern Beta proved a bigger contributor than expected thanks to boosting the exotic damage as well, which is why that's at 2 and CSV is at 1, and easily outperformed including a Torpedo Spread as well. Finally I switched the power settings away from a balanced configuration toward weapons over aux and aux over weapons, and the high aux version did best. So that was the build.
How did it perform? Well it was sluggish, obviously, I expected that. But the DPS was pretty impressive and was reflected in how quickly it got kills. And the survivability was pretty good, with a lot of hull and pretty good healing I really couldn't complain, except that it was so sluggish it was hard to run out of range and heal if I needed to. On the other hand when I did withdraw the fighters kept fighting, contributing to the highest Wanted Elite DPS of any of the builds in the table with only one attempt needed to survive the whole mission (the science vessel could do better by charging in and dying a couple of times, but needed to play cautiously and sacrifice its CPB to survive). They were even powerful enough to handle the Birds of Prey in Starbase One Advanced without any help from the mothership, potentially even without player input, which could be convenient.

Captain Details

Captain Name  Stilt   
Captain Career  Science   
Captain Faction  Federation   
Captain Race  Vulcan   
Primary Specialization  Temporal  The best specialization for exotic builds, as well as for ground builds and a good generalist option, it provides debuffs, damage boosts, EPG, and survivability 

Space Skill Tree

Rank  Engineering    Science    Tactical   
Lieutenant    Advanced Hull Capacity      Advanced Energy Weapon Training  Advanced Projectile Weapon Training 
Lt. Commander  Improved Electro-Plasma System Flow  Impulse Expertise  Improved Control Expertise  Drain Expertise  Targeting Expertise  Defensive Maneuvering 
      Control Amplification  Drain Infection     
Commander  Hull Plating        Advanced Weapon Amplification  Advanced Weapon Specialization 
Captain  Defensive Subsystem Tuning    Advanced Exotic Particle Generator  Advanced Long Range Targeting Sensors  Advanced Hull Penetration  Advanced Shield Weakening 
Admiral          Coordination Protocols  Advanced Tactical Readiness 
          Defensive Coordination   
          Offensive Coordination   
1 Points Left    11    26   

Space Skill Unlocks

Purchases  Engineering  Science  Tactical 
Hazard Emitters III  Science Team III  Tachyon Beam III 
Battery Expertise  Sector Space Travel Speed   
Feedback Pulse III  Photonic Shockwave III  Jam Sensors III 
10    Maximum Shield Capacity   
12      Tractor Beam III 
15    Control Resistance   
17      Viral Matrix III 
20    Shield Drain Resistance   
24 (Ultimate)      Focused Frenzy 
25 (1st Ultimate Enhancer)      Frenzied Assault 
26 (2nd Ultimate Enhancer)      Team Frenzy 
This skill tree is my generalist one from Strict Budget Build part 2, and it pretty much needs to be. This build relies on both energy weapon and exotic damage, so it can't afford to neglect either one. There are other generalist skill trees, of course, but that is what you'll need to be looking for, any single purpose tree isn't going to get the job done.

Ship Loadout: Vo'Quv Carrier

Slot  Item  Notes 
Fore Weapon 1  Polaron Cannon  The one Mk XV, single cannons are usually a poor choice, but they will outperform beam arrays forward/turrets aft and provide 180 degrees of firing arc 
Fore Weapon 2  Polaron Cannon  The Vo'Quv suffers from terrible turn rate so it doesn't want weapons with narrow arcs, but it needs to face forward for the exotic damage 
Fore Weapon 3  Morphogenic Polaron Energy Torpedo Launcher   Here for the 3 piece set bonus providing 30% crtd to the whole ship 
     
Aft Weapon 1  Heavy Chronometric Polaron Turret  Mostly need a turret, 2 piece provides some aux 
Aft Weapon 2  Morphogenic Polaron Energy Weapon   Another turret, and contributes to the 3 piece 
Aft Weapon 3  Polaron Turret  Just a turret 
     
Deflector  Solanae Deflector Array Mk XII Very Rare  Provides more EPG out of the box than any other mission reward 
Impulse Engines  Sol Defense Impulse Engines Mk XII Very Rare  With the bonus from getting hit this does just provide the best total turn rate out of the mission rewards at 14.7 degrees/s, replace with Fortified Competitive rep engines 
Warp Core  Obelisk Subspace Rift Warp Core  This build only hits 122 aux so this doesn't actually help, could consider Deuterium-Stabilized but the benefit is minimal 
Shields  Sol Defense Covariant Shield Array Mk XII Very Rare  2 piece is nice for survivability, alternative would be Jem'Hadar 2 piece for a bit of Polaron cat1. 
     
Devices  Exotic Particle Flood  Crafted in Science R&D. I do have to admit that the materials are a little hard to come by, and Admiralty (with account unlocked ships) is the best source I've found. 
  Deuterium Surplus  Evasive Maneuvers in battery form, and you can collect 4 per day from the Alhena system. 
  Delta Alliance Reinforcements Beacon  Handy damage boost 
     
3 Engineering Consoles  Console - Engineering - Trellium-D Plating Mk XII Very Rare  Good survivability console, could use a Neutronium instead 
  Console - Engineering - Polaric Modulator Mk XII Very Rare  Boosts Inertia, which is rare, as well as turn rate, and slipstream turn rate at warp 
  Console - Engineering - House Martok Defensive Configuration Mk XII Very Rare  Boosts turn rate and provides some survivability, an RCS would work too 
     
4 Science Consoles  Console - Science - Temporal Disentanglement Suite Mk XII Very Rare  Nice crit and durability boost, plus some power. 
  Console - Science - Temporally Shielded Datacore Mk XII Very Rare  Slightly less EPG than Particle Generators but it makes up for it with the CtrlX 
  Console - Science - Particle Generator Mk XII Uncommon  Just need EPG 
  Console - Science - Particle Generator Mk XII Common   
     
2 Tactical Consoles  Console - Tactical - Morphogenic Matrix Controller Mk XII Very Rare  For the 3 piece and some polaron cat1 
  Console - Tactical - Chronometric Capacitor Mk XII Very Rare  Good EPG, some aux from the 2 piece, and some Polaron cat1, and this build uses all of it 
     
2 Hangar Bays  Hangar - To'Duj Fighters  These provide more DPS than any other hangar that's available by default, and they come with the ship, they will die in heavy AoE content, otherwise use two 
  Hangar - Delta Flyers  These have slightly less DPS than To'duj but almost never die in any content, but do require a level 65 KDF character for Cross Faction Flying. Could substitute B'rels for more DPS loss 

Officer Details

Bridge Officers     
Lt. Commander Tactical  Tactical Team I  Shield distribution and debuff clear, may cause firing cycle problems but I haven't seen it 
  Cannon: Scatter Volley I  Excellent weapon damage buff and also spreads APB to up to 3 targets 
  Attack Pattern Beta II  Unusual to slot this above the firing mode, but it boosts every damage source and weapon damage is only ~1/4 of the total 
     
Lt. Commander Engineering  Emergency Power to Engines I  More than doubles speed and provides +2 turn rate, essential mobility for any build 
  Auxiliary to Structural I  Excellent heal and damage resist, and on a very short cooldown 
  Emergency Power to Weapons III  Major energy weapon damage boost 
     
Commander Science  Hazard Emitters I  Good hull heal and debuff clear 
  Destabilizing Resonance Beam Good exotic damage, used with GW 
  Photonic Officer II  Cooldown reduction 
  Gravity Well III  Good exotic damage and control 
     
Lieutenant Science  Science Team I  Shield heal and debuff clear 
  Tyken's Rift I  Exotic damage, alternate with GW 
     

Traits & Duty Officers

Trait  Name  Description  Notes 
Personal Traits  Astrophysicist    A little bit of EPG 
  Cannon Training    A little more cannon damage 
  Conservation of Energy    Significant exotic damage while solo, but stacks don't last long 
  Deft Cannoneer    Boosts turn rate by 1, on this build we need it, from Cannons R&D 
  Fleet Coordinator    One of the best traits in the game when on a team 
  Give Your All    Excellent hull damage resistance, from Engineering R&D 
  Operative    Some extra crit 
  Particle Manipulator    The most powerful trait for exotic damage, +50%/+29.6% crth/crtd on this build, from Science R&D 
  Photonic Capacitor    Extra Photonic Fleet is nice to have 
       
Starship Traits  None    Unconventional Tactics from completing Strategist is definitely worth slotting here, but I kept it cheap. 
       
Space Reputation Traits  None    You'll start picking these up very quickly, Precision and Advanced Targeting Systems are top picks. 
       
Duty Officers  Projectile Weapons Officer    "Law" from A Fistful of Gorn, a bit of a pain to get there, but worth having 
  Projectile Weapons Officer    A common included in my first duty officer pack 
  Astrometrics Scientist    Uncommon, also in my first pack, handy to have set 
  Conn Officer    From Phoenix, a must have for mobility in any build 
       
This table shows all damage sources in one Wanted Advanced run, with multiple lines from the same source summed together.
Source DPS
To'Duj Fighters 6594
Delta Flyers 4504
Gravity Well 3571
Photonic Fleet 3170
Polaron Cannons 2889
Destabilizing Resonance Beam 1728
Chronometric Turret 1156
Polaron Turret 1001
Morphogenic Turret 994
Morphogenic Torpedo 855
Tyken's Rift 839
Drain Infection 708
Entropic Rider 144
Table formatting brought to you by ExcelToReddit
Now, let's talk keybinds. In STO on PC you're going to want to learn keybinding eventually, and most of it's not too hard and can be done through the chat window (although it is arguably better to create a separate text file with your binds, that's more complicated). The first thing I always do is to set up a secondary fire weapons button through settings, usually V, just in case I screw up and my intended fire keybind doesn't work. While I'm there I usually set Distribute Shields to Left Shift, it's a pretty good survivability boost, although a lot of people do say it can mess up firing cycles, but personally I've never noticed a problem. Then, the commands you'll want to know are "FirePhasers" or "FireAll", "+power_exec Distribute_Shields", and "+TrayExecByTray # #", where # is a number. Note that the list of commands needs quotation marks around it, and commands should be separated by "$$". So if you typed the following into the chat: /bind y "+TrayExecByTray 0 0 $$ +TrayExecByTray 0 1 $$ +TrayExecByTray 1 2 $$ +TrayExecByTray 1 3" That would create a keybind so that y would activate the first and second abilities in the row labeled 1, and the third and fourth abilities in the row labeled 2 (0 in a keybind means 1 in the UI, 1 means 2, 2 means 3, etc., that's just how it works), starting with the fourth ability in 2 and then proceeding backwards. From there on in it's personal preference, put things where they feel natural to you, where you're used to them being. What I use has evolved naturally over time, I make no claims that it's efficient, just that I'm used to it, and I use it on everything. For fire weapons, distribute shields, Emergency Power abilities, cooldown reduction, often Aux to Structural, and anything else I just want to keep active I use spacebar, like this: /bind space "FireAll $$ +power_exec Distribute_Shields $$ +TrayExecByTray 6 0 $$ +TrayExecByTray 6 1 $$ +TrayExecByTray 6 2 $$ +TrayExecByTray 6 3 $$ +TrayExecByTray 6 4" That's the first 5 slots in row 7, which is usually enough. Then for my firing modes, Attack Pattern Beta, and so on, things with short cooldowns I activate as I attack, I use the 7 key, no good reason for that it just happened, and the first 4 slots in row 3: /bind 7 "+TrayExecByTray 2 0 $$ +TrayExecByTray 2 1 $$ +TrayExecByTray 2 2 $$ +TrayExecByTray 2 3" And finally for my exotic builds I always put Gravity Well and Destabilizing Resonance beam on 2, using the next two slots in row 3, although it is true that the usual logic behind that doesn't apply here, I just did it out of habit: /bind 2 "+TrayExecByTray 2 4 $$ +TrayExecByTray 2 5" That's all the keybinds I use, everything else I activate manually, one at a time, but it does compress 13 keys I might want to be pressing down to 3, which helps a lot.
Now, the difficult thing about this build is that I really don't know how to suggest upgrading it, apart from the obvious necessity of some Competitive Reputation engines to get their Overcharge to improve turn rate, I made sure to use Aux to Structural to pair with the Fortified version of those. The damage is very divided between different types, with about 40% from hangars, 25% from exotics, and 21% from energy weapons, and it's not getting a lot out of any of them, but I'll provide my own ideas and the STO BETTER Basics links for all three. Currently the biggest damage source is the hangars, but trying to improve those would be expensive. Ideally you'd like to pick up Superior Area Denial from the Mirror Strike Wing Escort lockbox ship, or at least the Independent Wingmate space trait, but those are very expensive compared to this build. Even the more minor and less powerful Advanced Engineering – Hangar Craft Power Transmission consoles are starting at 1 million energy credits each on PC for either a Mk XII with a useless mod or a Mk II with an [EPG] mod, or 5 million for a Mk II with [Polaron], while Swarmer Matrix is going for 7 million. If you wanted to work on exotic damage you could of course pick up the Temporal reputation two piece, and then you might want Subspace Vortex or Very Cold in Space to replace the heals with some more damage, but those will cost you 9 million each, and really you'd want to pair them with Spore Infused Anomalies from the Somerville or Batlh C-store ships for a truly potent source of exotic damage. You might be able to get good exotic damage out of the Gravimetric Photon and Particle Emission Plasma torpedoes after picking up the Competitive engines, and those aren't as expensive, but they do give you a much narrower arc. And if you wanted to improve the energy weapons, of course there are reputation items you can pick up starting with the Discovery reputation shield, but you're pretty limited by the combination of poor turn rate and forward firing exotics. You could try to switch to dual (heavy) cannons, probably moving the torpedo to the rear and dropping the plain turret, but I don't think I'm a good enough pilot to pull that off even with Competitive engines, which would leave you with single cannons which have underwhelming base damage and very few set items to support them. I just don't know what direction to go in to make a really impactful improvement in this build.
Finally, here's the table of DPS testing in the Wanted patrol for all five equivalent budget builds. The Luna used the original, unaltered Strict Budget Build, using the mentioned swap of Emergency Power to Shields instead of Aux to Structural for better survivability against non-Borg. The Vor'cha sat somewhere between parts one and two of the Baby Step series, meaning it had exactly the same consoles as the Hegh'ta BoP and similar ones to the Jem Escort, and the beam equivalents of the phaser weapons, with exactly the abilities and personal traits in the Baby Step posts. It must also be said that the Vor'cha and Vo'quv were the only builds to never die on elite difficulty, and the Vor'cha was definitely the toughest, although all the builds took about 20 minutes to get through the mission so using them at that difficulty is a bad idea. The Hegh'ta of course used the Quick Looks 1 build, and the Jem Escort used the Quick Looks 2 build.
Elite (DPS thousands) Advanced 1 (DPS thousands) Advanced 2 Advanced 3 Advanced 4 Advanced Average
Hegh'ta Heavy BoP 20.0 20.1 21.5 22.5 23.2 21.8
Jem'hadar Escort 19.3 23.4 20.6 21.8 19.7 21.4
Vo'quV Carrier 27.3 26.3 28.2 26.6 25.2 26.6
Luna Science Vessel 24.8 31.4 28.3 27.9 27.0 28.6
Vor'cha Battlecruiser 15.1 15.0 14.1 14.8 14.6 14.6
Table formatting brought to you by ExcelToReddit
submitted by thisvideoiswrong to stobuilds [link] [comments]


2024.05.15 09:15 NidstangSeer Batten down the hatches...

It's gonna get bumpier, guys! Just my theory/feelings, so feel free to disagree. In my decades of EMS/fire service, 13 yrs of ER and ICU duty in a "substance triangle hub", I've seen my fair share of users. Lisa is sadly not going to be here much longer. It is what SHE wants. She didn't change when each kid was handed away. She didn't change when her man left her for another woman (one who didn't lay in bed all day, gorked out of their gourd). Lisa has zero self-awareness, pride, or empathy for others. It isn't all the substance either. Face it, she's an unlikeable, entitled, lazy human who has chosen rock over her kids, family, and life. Unfortunately, Lisa is showing signs of brain damage. That phone recording a few days ago that someone posted? That was more than just being wasted. More like a TIA. When she nodded early this morning, did you notice the hand tremors? How her eyeballa in the 3rd nod went in different directions? She's exhibiting neuro symptoms and that is a bad sign. When they become obvious, you are dying. Literally beginning to run to that bright light. Problem is, Lisa wants that. She doesn't want to get clean. She doesn't want Jace back. She wants her substances and that is it. She's going to get more and more unhinged in her behaviour now. Once drug-induced brain damage begins, it progresses quickly unless the person stops using. The ONLY hope at this point is if she misbehaves on the street, at the store, in the car, amd the cops are called. Seems in her area, folks tend to just ignore "the whack-a-doodles" since the cops are understaffed. What's sad is that the internet is forever. All those tt streams, YT clips, those are what Lisa's kids will have to remember their Mum by. They'll see how she never cared about them, but about having strangers send her money to get FUBAR'd. She could have been their hero after Cole died. Too bad she was too weak.
submitted by NidstangSeer to lisaangelgurlsnark [link] [comments]


2024.05.15 07:58 tab_rick Navigating Bathtub Sizes: Making the Best Choice for Comfort and Space

Navigating Bathtub Sizes: Making the Best Choice for Comfort and Space
Finding the ideal bathtub size can be a difficult challenge when there are so many different sizes available. The typical bathroom is already so cramped that trying to comfortably fit everything in might feel like fitting pieces into a jigsaw puzzle. The bathtub has changed from being only a practical object to a focal point of bathroom design as a result of the rise in home decor trends and the focus on luxurious bathing experiences. This article will go deeply into the world of bathtubs, assisting you in choosing the right one for your needs and available space while also understanding the many different bathtub sizes and styles.

Different components of the bathtub

A typical drop-in style bathtub takes up more than 13 square feet of floor space and is a common fixture in many homes. Despite the fact that every bathtub is distinct, normal tubs have exterior dimensions that are roughly 60 inches long, 30 inches broad, and 14 to 16 inches high. These measurements are essential for the layout of your bathroom and the overall design. The material of a bathtub is also a component; alternatives range from fiberglass to cast iron, each of which offers a different bathing experience.

https://preview.redd.it/metr7luv3j0d1.png?width=612&format=png&auto=webp&s=5a65a381989af3c3630d85ed5ddf6acfaa1a58c9

The Importance of Bathroom Layout

Space Management

The space in bathroom facilities is usually insufficient, especially in metropolitan settings. It follows that thorough planning of your region is necessary. Every inch counts,The location of the bathtub, its closeness to other fixtures, and ensuring mobility all depend on careful space design. Even in very small bathrooms, it’s imperative to leave at least 12 inches between the edge of the tub and any fixtures. As a consequence, the user feels more comfortable while still maintaining functionality.

Tips for Smart Positioning

When positioning the standalone tub, elegance and function must be combined. In smaller bathrooms with constrained space, it’s critical to ensure that the freestanding tub doesn’t impede mobility. The standalone tub’s edge should be kept at least 12 inches away from other fixtures. By having an open floor area that is at least 24 inches wide around the freestanding tub, the bathroom might appear bigger and less crowded. Never forget that striking a balance between design and utility is crucial.

Different Types of Bathtubs and Their Sizes

Alcove Bathtubs

Many homeowners select alcove bathtubs, which are identified by their location within a space limited by three walls. They are frequently the best choice for tiny or typical-sized bathrooms. These baths are normally between 30 and 36 inches broad and 5 to 6 feet long. The front panel of the design—often referred to as an apron—is typically finished, and the surrounding walls are intended to cover the remaining three sides. When thinking about an alcove bathtub, it’s critical to precisely measure the available space to make sure the tub will fit properly while yet allowing enough room for mobility. An alcove bathtub is set against the far side, so the two long walls form the ends and back of the bathroom.

Drop-in Bathtubs

Drop-in bathtubs have a luxurious appearance and are made to fit into a built-in deck with tile or similar material covering the top and exposed sides. In larger bathrooms, the tub deck can fit into a room corner and be left exposed on two sides. Drop-in bathtubs don’t have factory-finished sides like alcove bathtubs do. Instead, they are made to slide into a deck cutout, much like a drop-in sink slides into a vanity countertop. Depending on the size of your bathroom and your preferred design, these large bathrooms can be placed in a variety of locations. However, because the built-in deck can occupy a sizable amount of area, they work best in larger settings.

Oval Bathtubs

Oval baths are considered to be elegant and luxurious. They are available in freestanding or drop-in variants. Despite appearing to be large, they are often only wider than normal bathtubs, not longer. If you’re thinking about getting an oval bathtub, it’s important to consider the extra width, especially if you choose a drop-in model. This entails building a bigger apron for the tub to rest on, which may change how your bathroom is organized in general.

Whirlpool Bathtubs

Whirlpool baths are the epitome of spa-like indulgence. Many of these are available in typical alcove-ready sizes, but they may look bigger than standard tubs. Jetted whirlpool mechanisms can be installed without increasing the footprint. The jets in these corner tubs provide a massage-like effect, making them perfect for anyone looking for a peaceful bathing experience. When considering installing a whirlpool bathtub, it’s critical to consider the additional plumbing requirements and check that the bathroom has adequate space for the tub.

Corner Bathtubs

Corner bathtubs are all about luxury and relaxation. They are great for folks who prefer reading in the tub or watching television on the wall. Because they are often square in shape with one corner chopped off, these bathtubs are a good choice for large bathrooms with plenty of space. They can be configured in many ways, such as a triangle shell or a drop-in tub attached to a triangular deck.

Freestanding Bathtubs

Bathtubs that stand alone and are not confined by walls or installed in alcoves are known as freestanding fixtures. They can be purchased in many different designs, such as modern pedestal tubs and traditional classic models. They offer positional flexibility and could act as the centerpiece of a bathroom’s decor. Freestanding bathtubs may be a fantastic alternative for people with mobility concerns or areas with plenty of senior citizens. However, they do require more space all around—typically an extra 3 inches on each end and 4 inches on each side. Even though they provide for creative flexibility, they are therefore best suited for larger bathrooms or those with a layout that can handle a tub of this size.
Do you feel dazzled by too many styles? That’s okay, I’ve prepared a form for you to choose the bathtub that’s best for you based on your situation.

Type Features Advantages Disadvantages Best Used For Typical Size (LxW) Recommendation Index (1-5)
Alcove • Bounded by three walls• Finished front panel • Space-efficient• Common choice• Versatile • Limited design flexibility Small or standard-sized bathrooms 5-6 feet x 30-36 inches ✩✩✩✩
Drop-in • Fits into a deck• Exposed top and sides • Luxury feel• Design flexibility • Requires larger space• Deck construction needed Spacious bathrooms with custom designs Varies ✩✩✩
Oval • Wider design• Drop-in or freestanding •Luxurious•Elegant design • Requires more width• Not necessarily longer Bathrooms aiming for a luxury aesthetic Wider than standard ✩✩✩✩
Whirlpool • Jetted mechanisms• Often alcove-ready •Therapeutic• Spa-like experience • Additional plumbing• May require more space Those seeking therapeutic bathing Often standard sizes ✩✩✩✩
Corner • Square with one corner off• Spacious • Luxurious• Ideal for lounging • Requires ample space• Specific positioning Primary bathrooms with ample space Varies ✩✩✩
Freestanding •Standalone•No need for walls or alcoves • Design flexibility• Centerpiece potential • Requires more surrounding space Larger bathrooms or open layouts Varies + extra space ✩✩✩✩

Regulatory Guidelines on Bathtub Spacing

Code for International Buildings

It’s not just about aesthetics or personal preferences when planning the arrangement of your bathroom; it’s also about following the International Building Code (IBC). This code is more than simply a list of rules; it’s a well-thought-out framework meant to assure safety and functionality. The IBC frequently specifies the basic minimum distance between bathtubs, emphasizing the significance of user safety and comfort.
For example, the IBC may specify the exact inches of space necessary between the tub’s edge and other fixtures or walls. While these standards may appear to be strict, they are there for a purpose. By collaborating with them, you ensure not just a complaint but also a user-friendly and comfortable bathroom. Following these recommendations, in my experience, can save a lot of money.

Local Regulations

While international standards such as the IBC give a wide foundation, local building rules add an additional degree of complication. These regulations can be fairly varied, reflecting the distinct demands and considerations of many locations. They may go into topics ranging from plumbing complexities to the kind of bathtub materials considered suitable. These municipal rules might feel restricting at times, especially if you have a certain goal in mind.
However, keep in mind that they frequently result from the collective expertise of local specialists who understand the region’s particular issues and demands. Before starting a bathroom remodeling or installation project, especially if you want anything extravagant like a whirlpool or a custom-made bathtub, it’s a good idea (and often illuminating) to speak with local authorities or experienced builders. They can offer insights that blend regulatory knowledge with practical experience, ensuring your bathroom is both compliant and captivating.

The Future of Bathtub Sizes

Bathtub forms and types vary according to home. We should expect greater innovation in bathtub features and sizes as spa-like experiences and the tiny house movement grow more popular. Individuals looking to improve their bathing experience may find exciting alternatives in the future, ranging from eco-friendly materials to bathtubs with built-in digital capabilities. Whether you have a large or small bathroom, the market is likely to offer a bathtub that meets your needs.

Conclusion

Choosing the ideal bathtub is a highly emotional adventure, not merely a practical one. It’s about integrating a work of art into one’s life rather than just fitting a tub into a room. The key factor in your choosing is what resonates with you, even though your bathroom’s size, the design of your bathtub, and even the confusing local construction rules all play a part. There are a variety of options, each telling a unique tale, ranging from the snug alcove baths to the grandiose freestanding ones. I would advise someone who believes in the power of personal spaces to thoroughly research the many bathing possibilities while also listening to their emotions. Because your bathtub won’t simply be another feature in your house; it’ll become a beloved haven once you achieve that ideal balance between practicality and heartfelt design.
submitted by tab_rick to KKRsolidsurface [link] [comments]


2024.05.15 07:17 Worldly-Walrus-23 Am I in the wrong?

TLDR: Toxic friendship group with a lot of pressuring behaviour (particularly related to alcohol) that culminated in a huge standoff where I was accused of being the victim and being a bad friend when I couldn't drink due to illness and had to leave early. My only source of close friends, I decided to leave but feel alone, which has made a lot of other things difficult (e.g. dating). At this moment, am I right to leave them completely and focus on building a social life first?
25M, had a clique of friends from high school and junior college that we were really close with. We used to hang out every week, but over the last two years I felt that I was slowly drifting apart.
First of all there were two friends from high school that I'd slowly grown out of, and we reached a stage where we didn't go beyond exchanging mutual pleasantries and surface level banter and small talk. These two people had also betrayed me in the past in school, so I was well aware of their behaviour. There was also another mutual acquaintance from junior college that I never really talked to. But, there was one friend that I was extremely close to - we'd known each other for 11 years. We were able to talk about anything and everything, and we used to meet every week.
We also used to drink very often, but it got to a point where the behaviour was extremely problematic. The one friend I was close to had no conception of limits, and every session was a binge drinking affair. While I liked it initially, I realised that alcohol was simply a coping mechanism and was more firm with my limits. I became firmer on this limit when crazy incidents started happening, namely fights over petty insults. There was a huge turning point, when a hotel room was trashed, that made me think of finding a new social circle. But I had no idea how to, and I was extremely scared.
Fast forward to last year, and people slowly started drifting away, and the friend that I was close to was deliberately cutting off people for extremely petty reasons (e.g. this person is of no value to me, this person is too sensitive when I make fun of them, this person has weird habits). At this point, I'll admit that I was complicit in this gossiping behavior too. When my father had a stroke shortly before my overseas internship, I also gifted my friends a bottle and beer the day before, but when I told them I was coming, was met with the response of 'no one asked you to rush down' despite telling them that I wanted to meet them one last time.
However, things really reached a turning point in June last year, when I was doing an internship overseas and the friend I was close with came to visit with someone else. At that time, I was sick and on medication, and I really couldn't drink because my bronchitis was really bad at night, but my friend wasn't really concerned [I also forced myself to drink just to blend in]. On one night, I left early because the smoke around that area was really bad, and I couldn't talk. I'll admit that I didn't communicate that clearly, but I was coughing really badly.
The next day, while we were having a normal conversation, I was calculating my expenses and decided to split our share evenly because I had paid my friend everything. Out of nowhere, I got a long message about how I was not a good friend for entertaining him and always paid the victim and that we should no longer be friends anymore. I was profusely apologetic and accepted the blame, but my friend refused to concede, repeatedly crossing the line with remarks such as 'lying piece of shit' because I went hiking the next morning, after my cough had cleared, or 'always blaming everyone for my misfortune' [at a time when my dad had a stroke], 'not entertaining him because people are there to drink if not there's no fun' and being ' the worst person that he's happened to meet', and 'regretting ever meeting me'. Not knowing what to do, I called my brother, who told me that cutting off this person was the best thing I can do.
After two months, when I came back home, my friend apologized for his behavior. But during that period, he was extremely adamant about his saying things like 'I was taking things too seriously and behaving petulantly'. At that point, I had already made my mind to cut that friend off, and unsurprisingly, no one from that social circle reached out.
The subsequent year has been tough. To rebuild my social circle at 25 hasn't been easy. Its forced me to confront my flaws - yes, I admit that I never made the effort throughout school because I always thought that these people would be around. Occasionally, the thought of following up with these friends has popped up. But deep down, I know that this split was long overdue.
All in all, this split has left a gaping hole in my life that I haven't made the effort to fill, with caregiving responsibilities + school making it harder. However, after going on a couple of dates, I've realised that this gaping hole is preventing me from being the best that I can be. It really hit me when two 'dates' that ended after a couple of months hit me very hard.
As a result, I've decided to focus on myself before getting into anything. I've registered for counselling, and I've started trying out hobbies such as book clubs, dancing, volunteering, and reaching out to people I've known before. I feel that finding a balance between, work, family, self care, and social life is priority for now. This experience, coupled with caregiving, has forced me to take extreme ownership and honesty over all aspects of my life. Its made me much better at school, work and physical health.
Long post I know, but the questions I have are: (1) Am I right to not keep in contact with these people, knowing that it was a decision long time coming? (2) Am I right to focus on myself for now, carving a social life? Its a lonely journey, but I feel that its the most important step.
submitted by Worldly-Walrus-23 to friendship [link] [comments]


2024.05.15 06:57 guccitragique I owe the IRS so much money and I'm not sure how it came down to this? How did you learn how to do taxes?

I use a CPA I pay $400/year for. We don't meet in person, I just send my docs to him. I've never met him in person, just have phone calls. Another freelancer referred me to him in the LA area.
I feel like I would get large returns with him so I kept using him. In 2021 I freelanced at multiple places, some long some short, some overlapping. I keep a spreadsheet of all of my income every year so I'm not sure how this happened but I missed two tax forms.
IRS says I owe $4654. So I pay it, done. Now they've come back and said it's recomputed and I owe $3886 more?
I already paid the IRS $3491 for 2023 for transferring money from my work IRA (layoff), to my Rollover IRA, and into my Roth IRA.
I just feel like every time I make progress on my savings I have to start over. It's been like that for the past 3 years. This year I've only had one contract, I get paid well for LA, and I moved into a friend's house for $800 rent in Pasadena. I'm doing everything to save money and every effort goes to taxes or sudden bills I completely didn't expect.
My dad hasn't been able to work as an uber driver because of chronic pain and my mom is going through the aftermath of a kidney transplant and one of the cysts on her liver popped, so lots of medical bills and blood tests. They're over on the east coast, so I send over money and do what I can.
I guess this has turned into a, why is this happening I don't know what I'm doing type of post. I thought I did. I made a 12 Week Year plan for how much to save every paycheck, wrote goals, calculated how much of my auto loan and student loans will be paid off by EOY. It's like no matter how much I make I'll still feel financially strained by my circumstances.
I'm so frustrated that I want to learn more about taxes and what I'm actually doing. The CPA is $400 because he's also a financial advisor mixed into it but I just don't think he has the time or is that attentive for that. What are some resources to learn taxes? Surely if it were that simple everyone would be their own CPA but I actually am so fed up, I need to learn this stuff.
submitted by guccitragique to tax [link] [comments]


2024.05.15 06:46 fabstapizza_YT Are radiofrequency from phones harmful?

cell phones (2G, 3G, 4G) emit radiofrequency in the frequency range of 0.7–2.7 GHz.
Exposure to very high RF intensities can result in heating of biological tissue and an increase in body temperature. Tissue damage in humans could occur during exposure to high RF levels because of the body's inability to cope with or dissipate the excessive heat that could be generated.
The most restrictive limits on whole-body exposure are in the frequency range of 30-300 MHz where the human body absorbs RF energy most efficiently when the whole body is exposed.
First, whats the calculation from 1 ghz to mhz, how much is 1 ghz in a mhz, and how many phones in an area whould be harmful? For example if I was in a city and everyone has cell phones, would I be harmed?
Also I heard somewhere 2500 MHz is equivalent to 2.5 GHz.
submitted by fabstapizza_YT to AskPhysics [link] [comments]


2024.05.15 06:24 jrwreno MMW Climate collapse has begun. Any semblance of normality is soon going to fade as soon as 2030. See the list below.

By 2030-2040, people will flee the hottest/wettest areas. In the United States...there will be climate migrants from places like Southern CA and Southern NV, New Mexico and Arizona, Southern Texas. Extreme drought or heat domes will COLLAPSE electrical infrastructure to the point that certain cities will become absolutely unlivable with the present population and resources.
Southern wet states like east Texas to Florida....will experience wet bulb temperatures. Tornados and hurricanes will become so intense and common, whole cities will be wiped off the planet, and become unlivable due to zero home insurance companies willing to insure clients living in areas guaranteed to be destroyed.
In all other countries that are experiencing massive flooding and rain right now.....floods are going to wash away towns and agriculture located by these rivers. Landslides are going to become common, slicing up transportation infrastructure that depends on highways that snake through mountains. This will result in mountain communities being cut off from aid and resources.
Any potential weather event that occurs in your area....whether it be drought, wildfires, wind, rain, hail, tornados, hurricanes, etc.....is going to be supercharged by more heat being trapped in the atmosphere, and more moisture being retained in the atmosphere because of it. Expect more catastrophic examples of it, every single year.
If humanity does not find a way to stop and even reverse how much GHG is in the atmosphere, any stability agriculture enjoyed will be a thing of the past. That means much more expensive and hard-to-come-by food.
Or, we have to adapt, and learn how to correct our mistakes with careful, perfectly calculated terraforming. The chances of humanity destroying itself in the next 30 years....it is fucking depressing.
If you have a yard and lawn, NOW is the time to learn how to grow your own food. War, pestilence, famine and death are either here, or on the way.
submitted by jrwreno to MarkMyWords [link] [comments]


2024.05.15 05:38 No_Atmosphere_753 Basic FIF Guide

From what I have seen on this sub, there seems to be a lot of questions around Foreign Investment Funds (FIFs) and the way that income is calculated.
I am providing what is hopefully a brief, simple and easy to understand guide below and is applicable to individual investors only.
This is also only a basic guide, for more complex situations a discussion with a professional may be warranted.
I hope this helps answer some basic questions people have about FIFs and the way they are treated for tax purposes.
How do I know if my investment is a FIF investment?
A FIF investment is an offshore investment that is either:
- A foreign company
- A foreign unit trust
- A foreign superannuation scheme
- An insurer under a foreign life insurance policy.

Am I required to make a FIF income calculation?
A De-Minimis exemption exists for Natural Persons (Individual Investors), if the total ~cost~ of your FIF investments does not exceed $50,000 during the year, you do not need to calculate FIF Income. Instead you just return the actual dividends received (if any) from the FIF investments. This amount can be $100,000 in the case of joint ownership as the $50,000 would then apply at an individual level.
Please note that the De-Minimis exemption only applies to ~individual~ investors, other entities (companies, trusts etc.) are required to calculate FIF Income regardless of the overall cost.
If your ~cost~ basis is >$50,000, then FIF income needs to be calculated.
Example:
Individual Investor A
Total ~Cost~ of FIF Investments: $45,000, Market Value: $60,000
Individual Investor B
Total ~Cost~ of FIF Investments: $55,000, Market Value: $40,000
Only Investor B would be required to make a FIF calculation as the De-Minimis exemption does not apply because their cost basis is >$50,000. Investor A could, however, elect to treat their investment as a FIF and return income under the FIF rules.
Another exemption that exists is for ASX-listed Australian Companies. It is important to note that there are some that are still regarded as a FIF Investment. You can check if an Australian investment is exempted via the IRD website:
https://www.ird.govt.nz/income-tax/income-tax-for-businesses-and-organisations/types-of-business-income/foreign-investment-funds-fifs/foreign-investment-fund-rules-exemptions/foreign-investment-fund-australian-listed-share-exemption-tool
How do I calculate my FIF Income?
I am only going to discuss the two most popular methods for FIF Income calculation that would apply to 95% of people, the FDR (Fair-Dividend Rate) method and the CV (Comparative Value) method.
The calculation that provides the total lowest value would be used. The method you choose must be applied to all investments, you cannot ‘Cherry Pick’ based on what is lowest at an individual investment level.
1. FDR Method: 5% of the Market Value at the beginning of the tax year + Quick-sale Adjustment
The quick-sale adjustment is not discussed. The quick sale adjustment applies when a FIF investment is purchased and sold within the same tax year.
2. CV Method: Closing Market Value + Gains – Opening Market Value + Purchases
Example: Investment Cost: $50,000
Market Value as at 1 April 2023: $45,000
Market Value as at 31 March 2024: $55,000
Dividend Issued: $500

FDR Method: 45,000 x 5% = $2,250
CV Method: 55,000 + 500 – 45,000 = $10,500

Assuming only this investment exists, the lowest value would be used, being the calculation under the FDR method. $2,250 would be returned as Income, the $500 dividend would be excluded income for income tax purposes.
The above calculations would be made for each of your FIF Investments.
If you end up with a negative value (loss), the loss cannot be claimed and your FIF Income would be $0. If a loss is incurred where you are forced to use the CV method, then this can be claimed.
Example:
Total FIF Investments - FDR method: $10,000
Total FIF Investments - CV method: $9,000
You would still use the lowest of the two values. $9,000 under the CV method would be returned as income in your tax return.
There are also investments where the FDR method is prohibited and you are forced to return them under the CV method.
Example:
Total FIF Investments - FDR method: $9,000
Total FIF Investments - CV method: $10,000
Total FIF Investments – Forced CV: $500
You would return the FDR Calculation + the Forced CV calculation, total income $9,500.

As mentioned above, there are other methods to calculating FIF income, only the two most common methods have been discussed and would likely apply to 95% of individual investors.
FIFs can be a complex area of tax and if you are unsure, you should seek professional advice.
submitted by No_Atmosphere_753 to PersonalFinanceNZ [link] [comments]


2024.05.15 05:13 Adventurous-Coat-333 Gas pressure and sizing policies vary regionally? What is it where you work?

Trying to get a better understanding of natural gas pressure and policies in different areas. Here in Pennsylvania, the gas company won't supply any service above 7 W.C. without an in depth engineering analysis. Even analysis is required by them if you add or remove an appliance, although I don't know how they would know.
I was under the impression that in most areas, plumbers will do the load calculations and then the gas company just sort of listens to them and changes the meter and service regulator?
Also, I have heard in other areas it's common to get 10 W.C., 14 W.C., or even 2 PSI hybrid service in residential. Especially now that code allows you to use the 3 W.C. drop table for systems above 8 W.C., and therefore get away with smaller pipes.
submitted by Adventurous-Coat-333 to askaplumber [link] [comments]


2024.05.15 04:47 PyroDesu The Redbud Murder Saga

DO NOT COMMENT ON LINKED POSTS. I am NOT OP. Original post by u/God_Dammit_MoonMoon in treelaw
trigger warnings: Tree Destruction
mood spoilers: Mild Confusion
 
(Virginia) Neighbor is on video ripping my eastern redbud sapling out of the ground - 2024-05-05
TLDR -- (location: VA) neighbor came onto my property -- I have her on video coming from her yard and carrying yard debris, looking around as she goes, walking up to one of my redbud saplings, ripping it out of the ground and breaking it in half a couple of times as she walked back to her property. The tree is very clearly on my property. She was (very clearly) looking to see if anyone was around before she did it. What is "standard procedure" here? How do I get her to replace at least the one tree I have her on video destroying? I'd ask how to not make this living situation awkward, but we're way past that at this point.
Long Version:
I live in Virginia in a neighborhood without an HOA. I bought my house a couple of years ago and there were zero large trees in the yard.
All of my neighbors have very landscaped yards. My house needed renovation, so I haven't done much in the yard other than plant some trees so they had time to get established. In the 2 years I've lived here, I've planted 7 trees in the front yard.
4 of the trees I have planted have been eastern redbud saplings on either side of my driveway. The first pair died over the first winter I was here and then I planted the second pair this past fall.
The most recent pair survived. One was absolutely thriving and the other was struggling but had growth. Between the trees and my neighbors property is my mailbox and the trees have mulch rings.
I say these things because it's not like there's a question of whose property the trees were on or did they look dead (and did the neighbor think they were doing me a favor by removing yard debris).
Three weeks ago, I went out to check the mail and the one closest to my neighbors yard was missing. There wasn't a sapling laying on the ground so it wasn't like an animal chewed it at the base and it fell over. The entire thing was gone but the mulch wasn't disturbed. I even dug into the mulch to try to find the root ball because it was so weird. No root ball.
My partner and I couldn't remember the last time we had seen it and we had friends in town helping with the renovation so it went out of our mind as a weird thing. Partner was convinced it was an animal. I was convinced someone stole my tree.
Tonight, I went out to take the garbage to the road and -- lo and behold -- the 2nd redbud is missing.
I look around for it -- in case it's on the ground and it's not there. Mulch isn't disturbed. Exact same situation as the other one. So I dig down to try to find the root ball and there isn't one. it's only 4ft tall, so not like there'd be a big one to begin with.
I call my partner and let them know. They've been out of town but mention when they left Wednesday morning, they remember checking on the tree. So I go to the video footage.
It was there the morning of the 1st and the morning of the 2nd. The morning of the 3rd....hard to tell. It might be there. It might not. I go through more video from friday and confirm the tree is not there.
So I go back to the 2nd and I start going through the video and around 7pm, I get my answer -- I see my neighbor walk onto my property, carrying yard debris from her yard. She's looking around, and then walks up to the tree, rips it out of the ground, and walks back off to her property snapping the tree in half a couple of times as she goes. If I had to guess, she was carrying the yard debris as a cover "oh I thought it was yard debris and I was just trying to help".
I went back to check to see if I have her on video doing the same thing to the first tree, but the video doesn't go back that far unless you specifically save the video (which I didn't think to do). If I were a gambler, I'd put money on the fact that she did the same thing to the first tree.
I know tree law in VA states that if the trees are on your side you can trim them as long as you don't do it to a point where you kill them, but these trees were very much on my property. The one that she killed recently, it was literally the tree, my driveway, a small stretch of yard (where the 1st tree was that went missing) , my mailbox, and then the neighbors yard.
What is standard procedure here on addressing this with a neighbor? I don't want to get police involved for destruction of property but at the same time, who comes onto someones property and rips their trees out of the ground?
Unrelated -- my relationship with this neighbor has always been wonderful. Like I bake them pies and the give me things from their garden. We bring in packages for each other when fedex inevitably delivers them to the wrong house. There was a windstorm in March that blew a tree from their neighbors yard (two houses down from me) into their yard and I went out with my chainsaw to help cut it up so it didn't just sit.
*quick update\*
So this has gathered far more comments than I expected but I figured there were a couple of things that needed to be addressed.
First -- the video. The video is safe. I have a copy on my phone, personal laptop, work laptop, and have sent it to many, many friends because it's such a batshit situation. We have copies should I need to use it.
Second, tree proximity to property line -- because I was curious, I went out with my handy dandy tape measure to check to see how far the trees were planted from the line. The first tree that was yoinked 3 weeks ago was 6ft from the property line. The second tree that was pulled a few days ago was 22 feet 3 inches from the property line. The only one arguably "close" to the property line was the first one (6ft from the line) and honestly, if she had come to me with a concern about it, I probably would have agreed to move it in the fall when it went dormant and it was safe to do so. Instead she chose tree violence.
Third, "the plan". Because my partner travels a lot, we both own our houses (so neither of us are going anywhere), and because I want to make sure she doesn't retaliate against the other 9 baby trees in my backyard (that's fenced in) or my dog, I've decided to take u/kemperflow 's advice to an extent. Basically I'm going to tell them someone vandalized and stole property out of my yard and that I'm going to be going through the video from one of the cameras in the next couple of days and this camera points at the area of the trees. I'm going to ask them if they've had anyone vandalize or steal their property in the last week or so. Basically giving them the opportunity to fess up and give me whatever lie they come up with on the spot as to why she destroyed the trees. If she owns up to it, I'll ask her to buy me new trees to make it right and then tell her she should not come onto my property and do something like this again without my permission. If she doesn't, in a few days I'll go back with the video and give her another opportunity to make it right. At that point if she still doesn't, then I'll report her for theft and destruction of property and have her trespassed. Because we're not going anywhere anytime soon, I don't want to go completely nuclear in the first round. Hopefully it doesn't get to last bit.
Fourth, she is an avid gardener. She has trees lining the back of her property, trees on the property line she shares with me (close to where the redbud massacre of 2024 occurred), a vegetable garden, so many rose and phlox bushes I've lost count and recently added some new low shrubs near the trees on the back of her property. Her yard is very curated with many shrubs, trees, and flowers -- both deciduous and evergreen. While I could be wrong, I don't think her removing the trees had to do with her being concerned about their leaves. If she were, she'd probably take down one of the two 60 yr old maple trees in her backyard.
 
Update: (Virginia) Neighbor is on video ripping my eastern redbud sapling out of the ground - 2024-05-07
Okay, so this will *hopefully* be the final update and there won't be any need to get motion activated sprinklers involved. I'm not ruling them out if this ends up escalating after this post.
Today I worked from my closet because it has a window that just so happens to overlook my neighbors garden and her car was in her driveway so I knew she was home.
Around 1pm she made an appearance so I went out to "check the mail". I waved to her with a big smile and said hello. She said hello and we exchanged minor pleasantries. And then I segued into asking
"Oh hey, have you guys noticed if you've had anything stolen or vandalized in your yard?"
"Oh no. not at all."
"I'm glad to hear it. I've had two trees taken from my yard over the last 3 weeks."
"What do you mean taken from your yard?"
"Well the two redbuds I had at the end of the driveway -- they were saplings and one was by the mail box and the other was by the lamp post. The first disappeared about 3 weeks ago and the second one disappeared sometime after Wednesday last week."
"No, we haven't had anything like that happen."
"That's great. Yeah, I don't know what happened. I'm going to check one of the cameras I have on the property in the next couple of days. It's pointed at the driveway, so it gets clear views of the trees and we'll be able to see what happened. Hopefully it's just animals or something because if someone came onto my property and stole them, I'm going to have to get the police involved for theft."
If I didn't have her attention before, I definitely had it at the last bit because she started asking more clarifying questions about these missing trees -- What kind of trees did you say? And where were they? How big were they?
I answer all of her questions and add on that it sucks because I bought these trees and they had been planted since fall but "Yeah, I guess we will find out what happened in a few days when I have an opportunity to check the video." And that's about the time she says "Oh, That might've been me. I think I thought they were weeds." (For the record — no I do not believe she mistook two 4ft saplings for weeds.)
I let her know that if that's the case, I would like her to replace them. To which she replies that she's not sure but it might've been.
I reassured her that it's okay if she doesn't know. We can wait to resolve this until I view the video because I absolutely do not want her to pay for replacements if she's not responsible.
Y'all. She absolutely did not want me to go to the video.
She asked me what kind of trees again and I told her. She said that if I told her how much they were, she’d pay me back.
And I said “are you sure you don’t want to wait to check the video?”
“No no. I’ll take care of it. Just let me know.”
I pulled my phone up and found comparable redbuds online and we calculated the total that she would owe together. She went inside and gave me cash to get replacements for the redbuds. We stood and chatted for a couple more minutes but I did reiterate that she needed to talk with me before doing something like this in the future and if she see's some weeds that she thinks needs to be pulled on my property to let me know because it isn't fair or right for her to bear the burden of weeding my yard.
And so concludes The Redbud Murder Saga. (I hope)
 
Reminder - I am not the original poster. DO NOT COMMENT ON LINKED POSTS.
submitted by PyroDesu to BestofRedditorUpdates [link] [comments]


2024.05.15 04:20 TrackingSystemDirect GPS Tracking Shipping Containers

GPS Tracking Shipping Containers

GPS Tracking For Shipping Containers: Preventing Cargo Theft

Are you concerned about the safety of your valuable cargo shipments in the face of the alarming rise in cargo theft? You're not the only one grappling with this challenge. Shockingly, the FBI reports that cargo theft amounts to nearly $30 billion annually in the United States alone. The question then arises: how can you safeguard your shipments effectively? The answer lies in the innovative use of GPS tracking for shipping containers.
This cutting-edge technology stands as a game-changer in the shipping industry, offering real-time, comprehensive tracking of your cargo. By reading this article, you will gain insights into how GPS tracking not only acts as a deterrent against theft but also significantly boosts operational efficiency. Get ready to explore the multifaceted advantages of GPS tracking and why it's becoming an indispensable tool for protecting your cargo shipments.
https://konnectgps.com/
https://i.redd.it/9d2vcuzb2i0d1.gif

GPS Tracking For Shipping Containers - The Easy 5-Step Process

GPS tracking for shipping containers employs satellites to relay precise location data. Containers are equipped with GPS devices, constantly transmitting their whereabouts. This real-time monitoring is key for deterring theft and ensuring cargo safety. The system uses cellular and satellite networks for data transfer. Users access this information through secure online platforms. Instant alerts are sent for unexpected container movements. Geofencing technology establishes virtual perimeters for additional security. This setup also aids in optimizing routes, reducing delays, and improving delivery schedules. Essentially, GPS tracking is a comprehensive solution for safeguarding shipping containers.
  1. Device Setup and Activation. Install GPS devices on shipping containers and activate them for satellite communication.
  2. Continuous Tracking and Data Transmission. These devices continuously track container locations and transmit this data via cellular and satellite networks.
  3. Access and Monitoring. Users access real-time location data through a secure online platform, enabling constant monitoring of the containers.
  4. Alerts and Geofencing. Receive instant alerts for any unauthorized movement or geofence breaches, enhancing security measures.
  5. Route Optimization and Operational Improvement. Utilize GPS data for efficient route planning, reducing delays, and improving overall operational efficiency in shipping.

Best GPS Tracking Device For Shipping Containers

https://preview.redd.it/xh5r41fi2i0d1.jpg?width=1792&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3ae38ffcbe4b03778dad8d09be034d95fa58d898
The Oyster GPS tracking device is a location monitoring tool specifically designed for tracking shipping containers and valuable cargo assets. When considering this device over alternatives, especially those at a lower price point, it's important to assess its distinctive features and specifications.
Key Features:
  • Long Battery Life: Powered by three AA Energizer Ultimate Lithium batteries, offering up to five years of operation with one daily location update.
  • Versatile Tracking: Capable of updating location every five minutes when in motion and once a day when stationary.
  • Recovery Mode: Provides more frequent updates, useful for tracking in critical situations.
  • Instant Alerts: Sends notifications via text or email when cargo moves or enters/exits a geofenced area.
  • Wide Coverage: Supports 4G and 5G Cat-M1 Towers, ensuring connectivity in the US, Canada, and Mexico.
  • Rugged Design: Comes in a waterproof casing with an IP67 rating, making it suitable for harsh environmental conditions.
Specifications:
  • Size and Weight: Compact and lightweight, easy to install on various cargo assets.
  • Network Compatibility: Operates on both 4G and 5G networks for broader coverage.
  • Durability: Waterproof and dustproof with an IP67 rating.
When buying a GPS tracker or shipping containers, consider these features alongside your specific tracking needs, budget constraints, and the potential long-term benefits of investing in a reliable tracking solution. The price of the Oyster GPS tracking device, while potentially higher than some alternatives, reflects its extended battery life, robust build, and comprehensive coverage capabilities.

How Bad Is Cargo Theft - A Look Into The Stats

Navigating the world of cargo shipping involves understanding the risks associated with cargo theft. These quick facts shine a light on the extent of this problem, revealing what is most commonly stolen, where thefts tend to occur, and just how significant these losses can be. Get informed and stay ahead with these crucial statistics:
  • According to the FBI, the average value of goods stolen per cargo theft incident in the U.S. is approximately $214,000.
  • Food and beverages are the most targeted goods, accounting for nearly 20% of all cargo thefts.
  • Electronics make up the second most stolen goods, constituting around 15% of total cargo thefts.
  • The states most targeted for cargo theft are California, Texas, and Florida, which together account for over 60% of all reported incidents in the U.S.
  • Warehouses and truck stops are the most common places for cargo theft, with around 50% of thefts occurring at these locations.
  • Approximately $15-30 billion is lost annually in the U.S. due to cargo theft, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau.
  • Less than 20% of stolen cargo is ever recovered, making prevention crucial in cargo management.
  • Thefts tend to spike around holidays, with notable increases around Thanksgiving and the 4th of July.
  • Global losses from cargo theft reached a staggering $22 billion in 2021, according to BSI's annual Global Supply Chain Intelligence report.

GPS Tracking Device For Shipments

Imagine how simple it becomes to monitor shipping containers and prevent cargo theft with GPS tracking devices. Picture this - you run a shipping business, and you want to keep a close eye on your containers. You attach a real-time GPS tracker to each container you wish to monitor.
This tracking system consistently beams back the container's location data. You can access this real-time GPS tracking data online, anytime you want. It's as if you're in constant communication with your cargo containers.
Every time one of your GPS-equipped containers moves, you receive a notification. Imagine the peace of mind this brings. Asset theft? That's a concern of the past.
Think about the precision and efficiency GPS tracking units add to your operations. You're able to calculate estimated delivery dates with a new level of accuracy.
But let's face it. Some criminals see cargo theft as a low-risk, high-reward endeavor. When a single container can contain a million-dollar payout in electronics or tobacco, the temptation for black market crooks is hard to ignore. Here are additional benefits of how real-time GPS tracking technology can be your solution for theft prevention and asset management:
  • Enhanced Asset Management: GPS asset trackers provide real-time location information for both powered and unpowered assets. This visibility enhances your ability to monitor specific containers and manage your fleet effectively.
  • Advanced Features: Incorporating technologies such as a Bluetooth gateway, temperature sensors, and IoT systems, these tracking devices offer more than just basic functions. They bring smart container capabilities, improving shipment tracking and ensuring the safety of the cargo.
  • User-Friendly Interface: With developer API and API integration, you can easily incorporate GPS tracking into your current operations. The tracking dashboard and container tracking software provide a user-friendly interface for quick access to data.
  • Adaptable to Increased Demand: As your business grows, these GPS container tracking solutions scale with your needs. They support additional features like trailer tracking, vehicle tracking, and chassis tracking to meet the increased demand in your operations
Learn more about trackers that work internationally!
https://preview.redd.it/lh65w89n2i0d1.jpg?width=1792&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ffb87a917ad1ad1e42601ce495ff685b6735472c

GPS Tracking Shipping Containers - Frequently Asked Questions

Do GPS Container Tracking Systems Work Anywhere In The World?

Yes, most GPS container tracking systems utilize a cellular network to transmit location data, ensuring global coverage. In some cases, the container GPS can record location data, but can't transmit it until the ship is in cellular coverage. However, it's essential to confirm that your specific tracking solution offers both global coverage and satellite tracking.

Can GPS Tracking Devices Help Reduce Costs In The Shipping Industry?

Absolutely! GPS tracking devices for shipping containers contribute to operational efficiency, enabling route optimization and better utilization of resources. This helps reduce costs associated with fuel consumption, insurance premiums, and asset recovery.

Are There Any IoT Sensors Available For Shipping Container Tracking?

Yes, IoT sensors are increasingly popular in the shipping industry. These sensors, such as temperature and humidity sensors, provide real-time environmental monitoring. Why is this important? Because it can help ensure cargo security and allow for better decision-making to protect sensitive goods!

How Can GPS Tracking Shipping Containers Improve Customer Experience?

With asset tracking systems, customers receive accurate information about the location and status of their shipments. This transparency allows them to make better-informed decisions and provides an enhanced customer experience with your service.

Can Container Tracking Technologies Offer More Than Just Location Tracking?

Definitely! Advanced container tracking technologies can provide valuable insights, such as dwell times and ETA predictions. This GPS data helps improve scheduling and overall efficiency in the shipping process!
Some photos in this article, "GPS Tracking Shipping Containers" were generated using AI
submitted by TrackingSystemDirect to GPStracking [link] [comments]


2024.05.15 01:01 MerkadoBarkada Citicore Renewable sets IPO for June 7; MREIT to acquire P13-B in buildings through swap; Vista Land approves P5-B prefs offer (Wednesday, May 15)

Happy Wednesday, Barkada --

The PSE gained 4 points to 6608 ▲0.1%

Shout-out to financial freedom for the dividend card design advice, to Mike Tan for supporting the idea of the dividend cards, to Jing for hoping that competition would fix FMETF's iNav problems, to Justin Angelo Bantang for providing the equation that let him to "give up" on FILRT ("declining stock price + declining dividend payout = give up"), to VodkaMartini_007 for the OGP meme suggestion ("Doom Guy in Hell"), to Cheerful2_Dogman210x for the OGP analysis ("might take a quick peek if it hits a strong support"), and to arkitrader for the REIT Police vibes.
I know I still owe an update to the MB Underwriters League table, and I'll have that ready for tomorrow's send!

In today's MB:

Daily meme Subscribe (it's free) Today's email

▌Main stories covered:

  • [UPDATE] Citicore Renewable IPO pushed back to June 7... Citicore Renewable Energy Corporation [CREC 3.88 pre-IPO] [link] pushed its IPO back one week to June 7, with a revised offer period between May 27 and May 31. This is the second time that CREC’s IPO has been rescheduled. CREC was originally intended to list in March, but the listing was pushed back to the end of May after sticky inflation prevented central banks from lowering rates. CREC raised ₱5 billion from its sale shares in its subsidiary, Citicore Renewable Energy REIT [CREIT 2.85 ▲0.7%; 107% avgVol], to SM Investments [SM 887.00 ▲0.2%; 163% avgVol] back on March 31. The offer is 1.786 billion common primary shares at a maximum price of ₱3.88/share. Together with the overallotment option, the total IPO is worth up to ₱7.97 billion.
    • MB: I don’t have any insider information about why the IPO was delayed a second time. I know that the PSE is usually hesitant to schedule IPOs too closely together for fears of oversaturating the market with new equity issuances, and given how heavy the OceanaGold PH [OGP 12.36 ▼1.1%; 31% avgVol] listing has been so far, perhaps the PSE and CREC together decided that it might be worth it to get a little (more) space between OGP and CREC’s listing just to be sure. Edgar Saavedra’s group has been clear the whole time of its intent to list CREC in Q2, so a reschedule by one week to June 7 doesn’t seem like anything other than a bit of fine-tuning. Not sure how deeply we can read into anything. Just excited to get a look at a new IPO.
  • [NEWS] MREIT to acquire ₱13.15-B worth of office buildings through share swap... MREIT [MREIT 12.80 ▼1.2%; 380% avgVol] [link] announced that it has applied to the SEC to approve a property-for-share swap transaction with its parent company, Megaworld [MEG 1.79 ▲0.6%; 136% avgVol], where MREIT will acquire six “Grade A buildings” from MEG in exchange for 926,162,000 primary MREIT shares. The transaction is valued at ₱13.15 billion (~₱14.20/share). The properties that MEG will inject into MREIT are One Fintech Place and Two Fintech Place in Iloilo Business Park, Davao Finance Center in Davao Park District, and Two West Campus, Ten West Campus, and One Le Grand in Fort Bonifacio. The transaction will increase MREIT’s gross leasable area (GLA) by 48% to 482,000 square meters.
    • MB: This property-for-share swap structure is how the framers of the REIT Law imagined REITs would grow. I’ve seen some comments talking about how the issuance of primary shares by MREIT to MEG dilutes MREIT shareholders; this is true from a voting perspective, but not from a dividend or yield perspective. Starting from the point when the SEC approves the transaction, MREIT will begin generating revenue from these properties, and that revenue will flow into the dividends that MREIT will declare in future quarters. According to my calculations with the PSE’s data, this swap would push MREIT’s public float below the REIT Law’s one-third minimum public ownership threshold to 32.29%, so perhaps MEG will look to sell a small batch of shares in a private placement to prevent the possibility of suspension. Who knows when the SEC will approve the transaction? All I know is that it’s not a good look to get caught flat-footed by a surprise approval, like what happened to Leandro Leviste back when he still owned SP New Energy [SPNEC 1.13 ▼0.9%; 45% avgVol]. I’m interested to see how MREIT will react to the shifting fundamentals of the office market. Anyone here tried GPT-4o? Things are changing at a rapid pace. A year ago we were laughing at having text translated into Jar-Jar speak. Today, I had a full 10-minute conversation with GPT-4o (“Sky”) about how to use Google Looker to produce a financial dashboard using my Google Sheets data.
  • [NEWS] Vista Land board approves ₱5-B preferred shares offer... Vista Land [VLL 1.50 ▲2.0%; 0% avgVol] [link] disclosed that its board has approved a ₱5 billion preferred shares offering, consisting of 50,000,000 Series 2 Preferred Shares priced at ₱100/share. VLL said that China Bank Capital and SB Capital will be joint lead underwriters on the deal. The company did not provide any information about the potential dividend or the timeline for the offer period and listing of the shares.
    • MB: This prefs sale comes after VLL had to kill its disastrous attempt to sell $700 million in US Dollar-denominated bonds back in late January. Back then, VLL’s bonds were simply not shiny enough to compete with the yields of other (better) issuers. When it pulled the bonds there was an expectation that VLL would try again once rates had come down a bit, and while rates have not gone down, perhaps this smaller offering is intended to deal with whatever short-term needs the company has while it waits to make a bond offering at some future time when rates are lower.
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