Now you don't need expensive equipment to debunk flat earthers!

I'm sure you've seen it if you subscribe to satellite TV, or if you watch local channels (either over the air, or if you follow them on social media, or get your news at their website).

It usually starts with the local station. They will run a story disguised as news saying that one of the big satellite providers is threatening to take them off the air, and they will give you a number to call. They may also suggest you cancel your service and sign up with the competition.

The local station may be the loudest, but they are not necessarily at fault! Though they do own some of the fault.

The satellite provider will typically react by taking the station offline... that is, they will take them out of their channel lineup. (They are still broadcasting over cable, and over the satellite provider they aren't beefing with, and over the air.) They will replace the station with a similar but opposite notice about how the local channel demanded too much money and they could not afford to keep the channel without raising your rates.

So who do you believe? Truth is... both of them. Neither of them.

The way local channels work is, they have their OTA (over the air) business. They sell ad time to local businesses. They also do fluff pieces promoting local businesses, or naming segments after local businesses (or national ones whose chains want more exposure). Aside from that, they also license their content to cable and satellite providers. This is important because people who pay for cable and satellite still want local news, and no one can be arsed to spend $20-50 on an OTA receiver (an antenna, but they're flat now, you tape them to a wall and run a cable to your antenna, now you get free TV as long as you're within 10 miles or so (don't believe them when they say they go further, this is always limited by physics, and digital is kind of "all or nothing"). With cable providers, they generally look at how many subscribers the cable provider has and go from there. Satellite is different because DirecTV and Dish Network are basically "everywhere". So they do business differently. They work with all the local channels everywhere, so they have these deals in place that last for so many months or years.

When these terms come up, both sides tend to negotiate better rates, so that's when you see them threaten each other. They both want you to call and complain to soften the other side. If a deal is reached, the issue is dropped until next time. If not... then the channel is removed from the lineup and the channel blasts the satellite provider on social media and their site.

Basically, the local channel wants more money for the contract because they have ongoing expenses. Especially with everything going up, they want to pay people more, pay competitive wages and whatnot, so they ask for more money, year after year. And mostly, they get it. Local channels not being on satellite is not a big problem and when it is, it doesn't last long.

As for satellite, they want to pay less money, and their argument is that they serve more customers, so they are in fact bringing more eyes to those local ads.

In the United Kingdom, Parliament has basically said if you have a TV, you gotta pay the Beeb — the BBC. British Broadcasting Corporation. The people who make Dr Who, and they also have a pretty awesome news network. (Seriously, you should bookmark them.) Typically you can't watch the BBC on TV outside the UK, but you can access it online just fine, and there are services that carry its programming. In the US, there's really no such rule. Anyone can get local channels OTA for free. If you use cable or satellite, there is no set value for each viewer that needs to be met, it's all up for negotiation, and the customers lose.

I generally side with the local stations, but I will not sit here and tell you they're blameless. Both sides are bullshitting you, and neither side respects you enough to spell out the actual issues. They don't trust you, and that sucks. It's expected of DirecTV and Dish Network and the cable companies, we know they're shitty people. Or at least at the top. But your local news? You're supposed to trust them. So yeah, it sucks, but if I gotta pick a side, I'm going local every time. As should you, IMHO.

Satellite sucks, but it's a necessity for many. If you can get Internet, you can often do better with streaming than you can with traditional cable or satellite TV. The idea of 50,000 channels with nothing on is a Boomer dream, and even as a Gen-X'er pushing 50, I got no interest in those. Plus, they're close to 1/3 advertising these days. A show in a 60 minute time slot is 42 minutes of the show, and 18 minutes of ads. If it were 20/40 it would be exactly 1/3 advertising. It's not quite there yet. You want an actual number? Fine. The common denominator between 60 and 100 is 5, so... I'm just gonna google it... it's an even 30%. Now look at your cable or satellite bill. Are those advertisers paying 30% of your bill? Fuck no, they're not! But they expect you to buy from them.

My advice for so many fucked up situations is eat local, drink local, buy local. Whenever you can. Shop with local businesses. Go to craft faires and support local artists. (Disclaimer of bias: my wife is a local artist.) Contribute to people directly whenever possible by buying locally. Try to keep your money in your local community when and where you can. Support the people who support you. Local news is telling you what's happening where you live. Support their advertisers. If satellite tells you to call them, call them! And tell them to keep fighting the good fight. Tell them you have their back. And maybe ask them to be a little transparent about their side. We know they're holding out for more money. Tell them they deserve it. They're working for you every day.

This may be US-specific, and if it doesn't apply to your area, sorry. I just wanna spread information on what I know. If I haven't been to your state or country or province or whatever, sorry — I've been around a bit, but I don't really travel these days.

I saw some posts about american wanting to move to Europe; so just before you guys make the move, double-triple check insurances/banks, because literally every time I (not american) do smth financially related in France, they ask me if I am american? If yes, they won't even open accounts/ give me insurance etc.. Sounds discriminatory but apperently because legal

I dont know if that expands to any other field

EDIT: lol i am now wondering what are people are downvoting for? You dont like that fact, so you downvote whoever told you that fact? Some reactions are hilarious

Many recent studies found coffee is healthy.

https://www.ucsf.edu/news/2025/11/431036/coffee-safe-for-a-fib

https://hsph.harvard.edu/news/coffee-may-improve-gut-health/

Starbucks is not actually coffee. It's actually trash:

Real coffee is this:

Around January 11, 2026, archive.today (aka archive.is, archive.md, etc) started using its users as proxies to conduct a distributed denial of service (DDOS) attack against Gyrovague, my personal blog. All users encountering archive.today's CAPTCHA page currently load and execute the following Javascript: setInterval(function() { fetch("https://gyrovague.com/?s" + Math.random().toString(36).substring(2, 3 + Math.random() * 8), { referrerPolicy: "no-referrer",…

Far too many netizens still try to ignore this or even come up with reasons why gyrovague is the bad guy here.

Alternative archive pages:

archive.org
ghostarchive.org
archivebox.io (self-hosted)

But how else to bypass a paywall?

I've read relevant articles and clicked old links - they all seem to be history. The only ones that still work just look for the article in various archives - the subject of this post always amongst them. The same applies to this article, but there's still some good tips.

Here is the original article from 2023: https://gyrovague.com/2023/08/05/archive-today-on-the-trail-of-the-mysterious-guerrilla-archivist-of-the-internet/ and what Patakallio has to say about it today:

The post mentions three names/aliases linked to the site, but all of them had been dug up by previous sleuths and the blog post also concludes that they are all most likely aliases, so as far as “doxxing” goes, this wasn’t terribly effective.

Here is a relevant ArsTechnica article: https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2026/02/wikipedia-bans-archive-today-after-site-executed-ddos-and-altered-web-captures/

Wikipedia editors discovered that the archive site altered snapshots of webpages to insert the name of the blogger who was targeted by the DDoS.

archive.today (.ph, .is, .md, .fo, .li, .vn) also loads a pixel and javascript from mail.ru. The script mentions lamoda.ru, kommersant.ru, dzen.ru, ad.mail.ru, vk.com, vkontakte.ru, ok.ru, odnoklasseniki.ru. I haven't researched this further, but I think one can assume that your IP address will be spread across all relevant Russian websites. 10 years ago I would have said "so what? The Russians have social media too" but today you can safely assume that all this data is available to the government itself and is actively contributing to the hybrid war.

All in all, archive.today has always been in the "too good to be true" category. Call me suspicious.

And once again because it's important:

The Wikipedia guidance points out that the Internet Archive and its website, Archive.org, are “uninvolved with and entirely separate from archive.today.”

The idea of the lizard brain first emerged and rose to popularity in the 1960s and 1970s, based on comparative anatomical studies. Parts of the mammalian brain, neuroscientist Paul MacLean noticed, were very similar to parts of the reptilian brain. This led him to the conclusion that the brain had evolved in stages, after life moved to land.

First, according to MacLean's model, came the reptilian brain, defined as the basal ganglia. Then came the limbic system – the hippocampus, the amygdala, and the hypothalamus. Finally, the neocortex arose in primates.

Under the triune brain model, each of these sections is responsible for different functions; the more basal parts of the brain, for example, were supposedly more concerned with primal responses – like basic instincts for survival.

However, neuroscientists have been decrying the model for decades. The brain just doesn't work like that, in discrete sections that each play a separate part. Brain regions, anatomically distinct as they are, are highly interconnected, a web of humming neural networks. And with the advent of new techniques, we can start to better understand how brains evolved.

In a new study, a team of researchers from the Max Planck Institute for Brain Research turned to actual lizard brains to investigate, publishing their findings in a paper led by neuroscience graduate students David Hain and Tatiana Gallego-Flores.

[article written in 2022]

Luxury on the Arabian Gulf often appears effortless, yet behind every polished deck and skyline photograph lies a structured pricing model that travelers should understand before confirming a reservation. Many first-time clients begin researching Dubai yacht daytime cruise costs after noticing wide variations in advertised hourly rates, wondering what is genuinely included and what may appear later as an added charge. Daytime charters from Dubai Marina or Dubai Harbour combine vessel hire, licensed crew, fuel consumption, and marina coordination into a single experience, but the final invoice depends on multiple variables. Clarifying these elements early prevents budget surprises and ensures the cruise feels refined rather than financially ambiguous.

Base Charter Rates and What They Typically Cover

The foundation of pricing is the hourly charter rate, which primarily reflects yacht size, brand, and onboard amenities. Smaller 40 to 50 foot cruisers designed for intimate daytime outings may start at moderate hourly figures, while larger flybridge yachts exceeding 70 feet command significantly higher rates due to crew requirements, maintenance standards, and enhanced deck space. In most reputable operations, the base rate includes a licensed captain, at least one crew member, standard fuel allocation for common sightseeing routes, and access to onboard facilities such as air-conditioned salons and restrooms.

However, inclusions vary between providers. Some operators bundle soft drinks, bottled water, and ice into the rate, while others treat catering and beverages as optional add-ons. Fuel coverage is usually calculated based on standard cruising routes around Palm Jumeirah and JBR; extended high-speed navigation or longer offshore positioning may incur additional fuel adjustments. Reviewing the written quotation carefully clarifies whether marina departure fees, cleaning services, and value-added tax are incorporated or listed separately. Understanding this structural baseline allows clients to compare yachts accurately rather than focusing solely on headline pricing.

Factors That Influence Final Pricing During the Day

Seasonality plays a decisive role in determining overall cost. Between October and April, when temperatures are comfortable and sea conditions are generally calm, demand rises considerably. Peak weekends and public holidays often carry premium rates, especially for popular midday time slots. Booking several weeks in advance during high season not only secures preferred vessels but may also provide access to standard pricing before last-minute surcharges apply.

Duration also affects value perception. A two-hour charter offers an efficient skyline overview, while four-hour bookings enable leisurely cruising and designated swim stops without time pressure. Although longer charters increase total expenditure, the hourly rate may become more cost-effective when spread across additional guests within certified capacity limits. Vessel age, interior upgrades, and onboard technology further influence pricing, as newer yachts with stabilization systems and refined finishes typically command higher fees due to maintenance and depreciation costs.

Hidden Additions That Clients Often Overlook

Beyond the advertised rate, certain elements can subtly increase the final bill if not clarified in advance. Catering services, whether light brunch platters or full chef-prepared menus, are usually priced separately according to menu complexity and guest count. Decorative arrangements for birthdays or corporate branding events may involve third-party vendors, introducing additional coordination costs. Water toys such as jet skis or seabobs, if available, often carry hourly usage fees distinct from the yacht charter itself.

Overtime policies require particular attention. Extending the cruise beyond the contracted time to capture extra photographs near Burj Al Arab may trigger premium hourly charges. Similarly, rescheduling due to personal delays rather than weather considerations can incur administrative adjustments. Transparent communication with the charter company eliminates ambiguity and allows clients to allocate their budget intentionally rather than reacting to post-cruise invoices. Clear documentation of all optional services in the booking agreement is essential for maintaining financial clarity.

Comparing Yacht Packages Dubai for Transparent Value

When evaluating Yacht packages Dubai, clients often discover that structured bundles can simplify cost management. These packages frequently combine fuel, crew service, refreshments, and predefined sightseeing routes into cohesive offerings tailored for daytime cruising. Instead of calculating each component individually, guests receive a consolidated rate that reflects a curated experience. While the upfront figure may appear higher than a basic hourly rental, bundled inclusions often reduce the likelihood of incremental add-ons.

Comparative analysis should extend beyond price alone. Assessing vessel condition, crew professionalism, and cancellation policies provides insight into long-term value rather than short-term savings. A slightly higher package rate may include extended cruising around Palm Jumeirah, dedicated swim time, or premium interior amenities that enhance comfort during midday heat. By weighing these qualitative benefits against cost, clients can select an option that aligns with both financial parameters and experiential expectations.

Strategic Planning to Align Budget with Experience

Achieving cost efficiency without compromising luxury requires deliberate planning. Confirming guest numbers early ensures selection of a yacht that maximizes space without exceeding certified capacity limits. Discussing route preferences with the captain during booking helps determine whether standard fuel coverage is sufficient or if extended cruising should be budgeted separately. Choosing weekday departures outside peak holiday periods can significantly reduce rates while maintaining identical scenic value.

Ultimately, transparency and communication form the foundation of a well-managed charter. Requesting a detailed quotation, clarifying inclusions, and reviewing contractual terms protect both client and operator. When approached strategically, a daytime yacht cruise in Dubai becomes an investment in curated coastal leisure rather than an unpredictable expense. With accurate cost awareness and thoughtful selection, guests can enjoy uninterrupted skyline views, professional service, and Gulf tranquility while remaining fully confident in the financial structure supporting their maritime experience.

You should know this because one of the reasons Trump's been trying to use to justify this war is that Iran never said they wouldn't pursue nuclear weapons.

You could say the fatwa is just talk but there's a strategic argument for Iran to not get nuclear weapons besides the moral case. Iran doesn't want to get nukes and become a pariah state like North Korea and cut itself off from global trade, they're a Petro state they need trade. At the same time they don't want Israel and the US to be able to bomb them with impunity. So their best strategy is to remain close to building a bomb, that way they can get sanctions relief while being able to dash for a bomb and nuclear deterrence in the case of a war.

Crossposted from https://lemmy.dbzer0.com/post/64470729

It’s called Evil Autism, because it’s a space based on the old subreddit that was so fun back in the day. Please join and help make this new space feel like another safe space for those of who are ND. I hope to see you there!

https://matrix.to/#/#evil-autism:matrix.org

Marion Nestle is a true hero. This woman spent her entire career fighting against food companies making people sick

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marion_Nestle

She eats mostly veggies, nuts and fruits.

Corporations HATE her.

She just published a new book and gives regular interviews:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kE9XeUEJV7o

She also runs a personal blog called Food Politics

https://www.foodpolitics.com/

Yesterday while cooking I set off the smoke detector, no I did not burn anything. They go off when I cook over a high heat. And yesterday once they started going off they would not stop. I ended up having to disconnect them all (they are hard wired with an interconnect) and I replaced them this morning. Aaaaaaaand let me tell you, I had a sleepless night last night knowing there were no detectors installed.

https://www.southernliving.com/how-often-should-you-replace-smoke-detectors-8774122

Why YSK:

Despite choking being an emergency, until recently there has been limited high-quality evidence to guide bystanders on the most effective way to help. Techniques like abdominal thrusts (formerly known as the Heimlich maneuver), back blows and chest compressions or thrusts have existed since the mid-1900s but, until recently, recommendations were largely based on case reports rather than rigorous scientific data. This evidence gap is dangerous.

Bystander response is the primary driver of a choking person’s outcome, so ensuring people know the safest and most effective way to care for a choking person can save lives.

Please see the article for the full piece, it's not long.

Article authors:

• Cody Dunne - Emergency Medicine Physician and PhD Candidate, University of Calgary
• Andrew McRae - Associate Professor, Departments of Emergency Medicine and Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary
• Khara Sauro - Associate professor, Cumming School of Medicine, Department of Surgery, University of Calgary

If you need more motivation to open the article, here is an interesting fact:

New research suggests back blows cleared choking obstructions in 72 per cent of cases, superior to both abdominal thrusts (59 per cent) and chest thrusts (27 per cent).

cross-posted from: https://lemmy.world/post/43462600

This map shows the spread of Homo sapiens out of Africa and across the globe, with very approximate dates.

Author: Altaileopard in 2006

US President Donald Trump said that the war in Ukraine has turned out to be more complicated than he expected. He noted that he had initially considered it the easiest at a Board of Peace meeting in Washington.

Ok everyone I know we thought Trump was going to end the Ukraine war super fast, but Trump isn't perfect, sometimes things are hard for him! For example remembering where he is going in a sentence or covering up evidence he is a pedophile are both things he struggles with.

" Once approved by Congress, the joint resolution proposing a constitutional amendment does not require presidential approval before it goes out to the states. While Article I Section 7 provides that all federal legislation must, before becoming Law, be presented to the president for his or her signature or veto, Article V provides no such requirement for constitutional amendments approved by Congress or by a federal convention. Thus, the president has no official function in the process.[b] In Hollingsworth v. Virginia (1798), the Supreme Court affirmed that it is not necessary to place constitutional amendments before the president for approval or veto.[10]"

If Democrats win control of the House and Senate what amendments would most likely be ratified by 38 states? We could have an amendment to increase the federal minimum wage and tie it to the cost of living or quality healthcare as a basic human right or ban political free speech protections for non-human legal entities or ban broad immunity for the president and allow the pardon power of the president to be blocked by The Speaker of the House and Senate Majority Leader.

What hypothetical amendments would have the most support?

The simple math of the Yard-Sale Model shows that if everybody started out with equal money in a fair economy, the outcome tends toward one person holding all of the money. The cool graphical simulations on this page demonstrate why.

cross-posted from: https://lemmy.world/post/43307224

Diagram illustrating various phases of the Moon in their order of appearance starting from the New Moon and progressing through Crescent, First Quarter, and Gibbous to reach the Full Moon. It is followed by Gibbous, Last Quarter and Crescent to complete full circle at the New Moon again.

The gray circle around the Earth shows the Moon's orbit. The dotted gray line illustrates moon's trajectory. The solid ivory line passing through the earth is indicative of Earth's orbit around the Sun. Notice that this graphical representation can be misleading, as the Earth & Moon's path around the Sun is actually always concave towards the Sun[1].

Author: Fresheneesz~commonswiki

CC BY 2.5