#custom counterweights

[biblical-chronicles]

Flashed

___________________________________________

where the reader pregnant with Noel's child is rescued by the brothers from paparazzi

___________________________________________

Dinner with Liam Gallagher was never meant to be a subdued occasion. Tonight, however, the plan was refreshingly straightforward: you, Noel, and Liam sharing a meal at a little pub, nothing too outlandish.

However, Noel had been unusually vigilant since the plans were made. Ever since you’d told him you were pregnant, he’d been watching you like a hawk, swooping in at the faintest sign of discomfort. As the two of you headed to the car, his concern was already in full swing.

“Yer sure you’re up for this?” he asked, his brow furrowed. “If you’re knackered, we’ll sack it off, no bother.”

You laughed softly, nudging him with your elbow. “I’m pregnant, Noel, not made of glass. Stop fussin’, will you?”

From where Liam stood leaning against the car, putting out his cigarette, his laugh barked through the air. “Him? Fussin’? Nah, couldn’t be our Noelly.”

“Shut it, Liam,” Noel muttered, though his ears turned a bit pink. He opened the passenger door for you, his movements precise, almost rehearsed. Once you were seated, he crouched slightly to adjust your seatbelt.

“Yer comfy, yeah?”

You rolled your eyes but couldn’t help smiling. “Yes, Noel. For the tenth time, I’m fine.”

“She’s fine,” Liam chimed from the backseat, swinging into the car with the casual energy only he could pull off. “But keep at it, and she might lamp ya before we get there.”

Noel gave him a sharp look but didn’t stop sneaking glances at you as he started the car. Liam’s chatter quickly filled the space, jumping from rants about the music industry (“Full of divs, the lot of ’em!”) to animated speculation about the pub’s beer. “If it’s shite, I swear I’ll kick off,” he declared. You caught Noel’s eye and shared an amused smile, his fingers brushing yours for a quick, reassuring squeeze as Liam continued his tirade.

When you arrived, the pub was every bit as inviting as Noel had promised. Warm lighting danced on wooden beams, the scent of food hung in the air, and a roaring fireplace cast a cozy glow. As the three of you slid into a corner booth, Liam wasted no time ordering a pint and a double order of chips. Noel, on the other hand, refused to stop his questions.

“Yer sure you don’t want water or juice? Maybe a tea instead?”

“Honestly, Noel, I’m fine,” you said, as much as you appreciated his care your patience was soon to be teetering on the edge of exasperation.

Across the table, Liam snorted. “She’s havin’ a meal, not a medical exam. Leave her be, nurse Noel.”

The evening unfolded smoothly—or as smoothly as it ever did with Liam at the table. He launched into an array of outlandish stories, complete with exaggerated gestures that had you doubled over in laughter. Noel, ever the counterweight, offered his quieter humor; pointed quips dropped at just the right moments, each one making you laugh harder than the last.

When the conversation lulled for a moment, you stood and announced, “Excuse me, I’ll be back in a minute.”

“Where you goin’ love?” Noel asked quickly, his tone alert.

“To the loo,” you said, giving him an amused look.

“Alright. But if it’s dodgy, just come back. Don’t be faffin’ about.”

“I’ll be fine, Noel.” You kissed him on the cheek, trying not to laugh at his protective streak.

“Relax, mate,” Liam said, smirking as he cradled his pint. “She’s off to the bog, not battlin’ a pack of wolves.”

Noel’s glare was as sharp as his tone. “No one asked you.”

Making your way through the pub, you reached the bathroom only to find a handwritten sign taped to the door: Out of Order—Apologies! Mildly annoyed, you flagged down a server to ask if there was another option. The young woman, clearly flustered, stammered out an apology.

“There’s a café next door letting our customers use their facilities. Just pop over—it’s no trouble.”

“It’s fine, thanks,” you said with a smile, grabbing your coat and stepping outside.

The brisk night air hit your cheeks, refreshing after the cozy warmth of the pub. You’d barely made it a few steps toward the café when a flash of light caught your eye. In an instant, a small swarm of paparazzi seemed to materialize out of nowhere. Cameras pointed at you, shutters clicking furiously as the questions began.

“Over here, love! When are you due?” “Is it true about the secret wedding?” “Excited to be a mum?" "Is Noel supportive enough?"

The cacophony of voices swirled around you, their questions cutting across each other in a dizzying blur. The flashbulbs felt blinding, and you instinctively placed your hands over your belly, your pulse quickening. The crowd surged closer, the chaos making it impossible to think.

Back in the pub, Noel sat in the booth, one leg bouncing anxiously under the table. He glanced at his watch for what felt like the hundredth time. “She’s been gone ages,” he muttered, his voice tight.

“She’s fine,” Liam replied, not even looking up as he reached for another chip. “Probably just some queue or summat.”

“Not for this long.” Noel pushed his chair back abruptly and grabbed his jacket. “I’m goin’ to check.”

Liam sighed, rolling his eyes as he stood too. “You’ll only make it worse if summat’s actually happened,” he said, shrugging on his coat.

“What d’you think I’m gonna do?” Noel shot back, glaring. “Yell at a toilet?”

“Wouldn’t put it past ya,” Liam muttered under his breath, trailing behind his brother as they headed out quickly into the night after being informed about the toilet situation.

The cool air outside did nothing to quell Noel’s growing worry, and he scanned the street quickly, his heart hammering in his chest. It wasn’t long before the source of the delay became clear. A cluster of paparazzi had formed outside the neighboring café, their cameras flashing furiously, their shouts cutting through the quiet evening like a blade.

Noel’s eyes zeroed in on you, caught in the center of the chaos. His stomach dropped at the sight of your pale face, your arms instinctively shielding your belly from the encroaching cameras. Without a second thought, he surged forward.

“Oi!” Noel’s voice cracked like a whip, sharp and commanding. “Back the fuck off, you vultures!”

Liam was right behind him, his voice booming even louder. “Yeah, piss off, ya daft cunts! Can’t you see she’s pregnant?”

The paparazzi froze for a split second, startled by the brothers' sudden appearance. A few lowered their cameras, stepping back slightly, but others continued snapping away.

Noel didn’t stop until he was at your side, his arm wrapping protectively around your shoulders. He pulled you close, his body a barrier between you and the flashing lenses. “You alright, love?” he asked, his voice soft but his tone urgent.

“I’m okay,” you said shakily, though your trembling hands betrayed you. “They just… came out of nowhere.”

His jaw tightened. “You should’ve told me where you were goin’,” he muttered, brushing a loose strand of hair from your face as he checked you over. “I’d’ve come with you.”

“I didn’t think it’d be a big deal,” you murmured, leaning into his touch.

“Well, next time, don’t take any chances,” he said firmly, already steering you back toward the pub with a protective hand on the small of your back. “Come on, let’s get inside love.”

Meanwhile, Liam lingered, his shouts still ringing in the air. “And don’t think about printin’ any of this shite, or I’ll find ya!” He raised a fist dramatically, making one paparazzo flinch knowing Liam's repuation.

Noel glanced back over his shoulder, irritation flaring. “Liam! For God’s sake, come on!”

“Yeah, yeah,” Liam grumbled, waving him off. “Go on, I’ll sort it.”

Once inside, Noel barely paused before pulling you into a tight embrace. His arms wrapped around you, his chin resting against your hair as he exhaled a shaky breath. “God, I’m glad you’re alright,” he murmured, his grip firm like he never wanted to let go.

You tilted your head up, catching his eye. “I’m fine, Noel,” you said gently, your hands moving to his chest. “Promise.”

He held your gaze for a moment, his expression a mix of worry and relief. “Scared the life out of me, y’know.”

“I know,” you whispered, your lips brushing against his in a soft, lingering kiss. His shoulders seemed to relax as he kissed you back, the tension melting away.

The tender moment didn’t last long. Just as you pulled apart, the door to the pub banged open with a loud clatter. You both turned quickly, startled, as Liam strode in, grinning like he’d just won a prize. In his hands were the twisted remnants of a camera tripod and a lens.

“They won’t be botherin’ you again!” he declared proudly, holding up his handiwork like a trophy. “Proper smashed their gear to bits.”

For a moment, there was stunned silence. Then, in perfect unison, you and Noel groaned, “Oh, Liam.”

“What?” Liam asked, genuinely perplexed as he dropped the mangled equipment onto a nearby table. “I did you a favor!”

Noel pinched the bridge of his nose. “You’re impossible.”

“And yet, here I am,” Liam said, grabbing his pint with a smirk. “Yer welcome, by the way.”

You shook your head, laughing despite yourself as Noel pulled you back into the booth. His arm stayed wrapped securely around you, his thumb brushing soothing circles against your arm, while Liam dove back into his chips like nothing had happened.

“Bloody idiots,” Liam muttered, still chewing, but there was a glint of amusement in his eyes. “Can’t even have a quiet dinner without all that drama.”

Noel shot him a look but didn’t reply. His focus was entirely on you now, the concern still evident in the way his eyes flickered over you. “You sure you’re alright, love?” he asked quietly, his voice low, as though anything louder might break the calm you were finally finding.

You nodded, giving his hand a gentle squeeze. “I’m fine, Noel. Honestly. Just a bit of a shock, that’s all.” You gave him a small smile, but it was enough to soften the tension in his shoulders.

Liam, as usual, wasn’t one for long moments of sentiment, and he cleared his throat before swiping another chip from his plate. “Right, well, since we’re all still alive and mostly intact, can we get back to the scran now?”

___________________________________________

this was such a cute request thank you fer it lovely anonymous person and hope you lot liked it x

Y’know what, I’ve just clocked that flashed (the title) sounds like someone’s gone n’ flashed their bits at ’em, but I’m keepin’ it. Me brain’s not workin’ for a better one right now, so the cheeky one stays. Also, made Noel capable of driving a car in this one, proper miracle worker behaviour from me there.

[petermorwood]

How on earth did these goats get there?

*****

In reality the goats are lying on their sides on rocky ground, looking up at a crane-mounted camera. The photograph was taken some years ago, part of a series reconstructing Central European folk customs and traditions which have fallen from favour or are now prohibited.

This old-fashioned rural blood-sport was originally practiced in parts of Anatolia, Turkey, where the game was called keçi fırlatmak, and also in the Carpathian Alps of Romania, possibly imported during the Ottoman conquest. The name there was aruncarea caprei.

*****

The goats would have been coated in a strong adhesive traditionally distilled from pine resin.(represented pictorially here by darker patches of dye on the flanks) and were then thrown upwards towards a cliff or rock-face with makeshift catapults, often a primitive form of counterweight trebuchet assembled from wooden beams and weighted with rocks.

The game ended when the glue dried and lost adhesion, and the goats fell to their deaths. They were then cooked and eaten, their meat being valued like that of Spanish fighting bulls.

The meat of the last goat to fall (başarılı keçi or cea mai durabilă capră) was prized as a special delicacy and selected cuts from the legs of this particular “winner” goat were often smoked and dried into a kind of jerky.

*****

In his “Grandes Histoires Vraies d'un Voyageur le 1er Avril” (pub. Mensonges & Faussetés, Paris, 1871) French folk-historian, anthropologist and retired cavalry general Gilles-Etienne Gérârd wrote about witnessing a festival near Sighișoara, Transylvania, in 1868.

There he claims to have seen catapults improvised from jeunes arbres, très élastiques et souples - “very springy and flexible young trees” - which were drawn back with ropes and then released.

Bets were placed before the throw, and marks given afterwards, according to what way up the goats adhered and for how long. The reconstruction, with both goats upright, facing outward and still in place, shows what would have been a potential high score.

The practice has been officially banned in both countries since the late 1940s, but supposedly still occurred in more isolated areas up to the end of the 20th century. Wooden beams from which the catapults were constructed could easily be disguised as barn-rafters etc., and of course flexible trees were, and are, just trees.

*****

Gérârd’s book incorrectly calls the goat jerky “pastrami”, to which he gives the meaning "meat of preservation".

While pastrami may be a printing error for the Turkish word bastırma or the Romanian pastramă, both meaning “preserved meat”, at least one reviewer claims that Gérârd misunderstood his guide-translator, who would have been working from rural dialect to formal Romanian to scholarly French.

Since this jerky was considered a good-luck food for shepherds, mountaineers, steeplejacks and others whose work involved a risk of falling, Gérârd's assumption seems a reasonable one.

However, several critical comments on that review have dismissed its conclusion, claiming "no translator could be so clumsy", but in its defence, other comments point out confusion between slang usage in the same language.

One cites American and British English, noting that even before differences in spelling (tire / tyre, kerb / curb etc.) "guns" can mean biceps or firearms, "flat" can mean a deflated wheel or a place to live, "ass" can mean buttocks or donkey and adds, with undisguised relish, some of the more embarrassing examples.

This comment concludes that since the errors "usually make sense in context", Gérârd's misapprehension is entitled to the same respect.

*****

The good-luck aspect of the meat apparently extended to work which involved "falling safely", since its last known use was believed to be in ration packs issued to the 1. Hava İndirme Tugayı (1st Airborne Brigade) of the Turkish Army, immediately before the invasion of Cyprus in July 1974.

Nothing more recent has been officially recorded, because the presence of cameras near military bases or possible - and of course illegal - contests is strongly (sometimes forcefully) discouraged, and the sport’s very existence is increasingly dismissed as an urban or more correctly rural legend.

The official line taken by both Anatolian and Carpathian authorities is that it was only ever a joke played on tourists, similar to the Australian “Drop-bear”, the Scottish “Wild Haggis” and the North American “Jackalope”.

They dismiss the evidence of Gérârd’s personal observation as “a wild fable to encourage sales of his book”, “a city-dweller’s misinterpretation of country practices”, or even “the deliberate deception of a gullible foreigner by humorous peasants”.

And as for those paratroop ration packs, Turkish involvement in Cyprus is still such a delicate subject that the standard response remains “no comment”.

[dreaminginthedeepsouth]

dave :: @roweafr :: build up.. :: @FinancialReview

* * * *

LETTERS FROM AN AMERICAN

July 2, 2025

Heather Cox Richardson

Jul 03, 2025

The Senate’s passage of its version of the budget reconciliation bill yesterday sent House members rushing back to Washington today to debate passing what the Senate had sent them. The bill is hugely unpopular. It cuts taxes for the wealthiest Americans and corporations and slashes Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, energy credits, and other programs that help the American people, while also pouring money into Immigration and Customs Enforcement and detention facilities for migrants.

While Democratic representatives are united against the measure, people from across the country are flooding lawmakers with calls and demonstrations against the bill in hopes of swaying Republicans. At the office of Representative Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), hundreds of his constituents held a die-in to demonstrate how cuts to healthcare in the bill would affect them.

Far-right Republicans think the bill doesn’t make steep enough cuts; Republicans from swing districts recognize that supporting it will badly hurt both their constituents and their hopes of reelection. But Trump has demanded Congress pass the measure before July 4, an arbitrary date he seems to have chosen because of its historical significance.

A new element in the Republicans’ calculation emerged a few days ago as billionaire Elon Musk reentered the fight over the measure, warning he would start a new political party over it. He has threatened to run primary challengers against lawmakers who vote yes, a threat that is a counterweight to Trump’s threat to run primary challengers against lawmakers who vote no. Already Musk has claimed to be donating to the reelection campaign of Representative Thomas Massie (R-KY), an outspoken opponent of the bill.

Representative Sean Casten (D-IL) wrote today about the dysfunction on the House floor. “A functioning House leadership team would work the members, make changes as necessary and bring this bill to the floor once they knew they could pass it. But [speaker] Mike Johnson does not run a functional House leadership team. He does what Daddy says and Daddy said pass it before July 4.” This morning, the House took a procedural vote, but recognizing that they did not have the votes to pass the bill itself, Republican leadership refused to close the vote.

Later, House leadership held another vote open for more than two hours when they could not win it. When Representative Joe Neguse (D-CO) challenged this trick, the chair told him that the rules established a minimum time for votes, but no maximum.

To find the votes Republicans need to pass the bill, Trump met today with those expected to vote no. Riley Rogerson and Reese Gorman of NOTUS reported that at a meeting with some of the swing-state Republican holdouts, Trump seemed to believe the lie that the bill doesn’t cut Medicaid. Three sources told the reporters Trump told Republicans they shouldn’t touch Medicaid, Medicare, or Social Security if they want to win elections. “But we’re touching Medicaid in this bill,” one of the members at the meeting answered.

Trump also met with far-right members, but because the Senate measure must pass the House unchanged, he can offer them little except to promise they will fix the bill after it passes. While that appeared to work on at least one representative, Representative Tim Burchett (R-TN) told the NOTUS reporters: “Now we’re having to once again hear the line, ‘Let’s pass this and then we’ll fix it later,’ And we never fix it later, and America knows that.”

Political journalist Judd Legum of Popular Information posted: “To review: Trump spent all day rounding up votes for his mega bill[.] Trump did not round up enough votes[.] So the ‘plan’ was just to start voting and bully anyone who votes no until they switch their vote[.] (It could work.)”

Democrats called out Republicans from swing districts, listing the numbers of their constituents who will lose healthcare insurance if the measure passes. They urged Republicans to stand up to Donald Trump, and to stand up for their constituents.

Pennsylvania representative Fitzpatrick faced the die-in at his office and was also so angry at today’s news Trump is withholding weapons already pledged to Ukraine that he wrote to Trump today, warning that Ukraine is “holding the line for the entire democratic world” and asking for an emergency briefing on the decision to withhold aid. He voted no on a key procedural vote tonight.

Just after 10:00 tonight, NBC News Capitol Hill correspondent Melanie Zanona reported: “Republicans are trying [to] locate Rep[resentative] Brian Fitzpatrick, who delivered a surprising NO vote on the mega bill rule. Likely to try to flip him. I told a member I saw him bolt out of the chamber & leave the area. ‘Smart,’ the member said.”

As of midnight, the Republicans did not have the votes to advance the measure.

Representative Maxwell Frost (D-FL) posted: “Speaker Johnson should just take the L on this vote. Most of America doesn’t want this bill to pass anyways. It’s…both the worst and most unpopular piece of legislation in modern history.”

On Bluesky, user shauna wrote: “say what you will about [former Democratic House speaker] nancy pelosi (as one of her constituents believe me i have) she'd have impaled herself with a gavel live on the house floor before she'd have allowed this sh*tshow of a vote on her watch as speaker.”

LETTERS FROM AN AMERICAN

HEATHER COX RICHARDSON

[justinspoliticalcorner]

Right-wing dark money activist Leonard Leo launches $1BN crusade to "‘crush" liberal America

Alex Rogers at Financial Times:

The conservative activist who led the crusade to overhaul the US legal system is making a $1bn push to “crush liberal dominance” across corporate America and in the country’s news and entertainment sectors. In a rare interview, Leonard Leo, the architect of the rightward shift on the Supreme Court under Donald Trump, said his non-profit advocacy group, the Marble Freedom Trust, was ready to confront the private sector in addition to the government. “We need to crush liberal dominance where it’s most insidious, so we’ll direct resources to build talent and capital formation pipelines in the areas of news and entertainment, where leftwing extremism is most evident,” Leo told the Financial Times. “Expect us to increase support for organisations that call out companies and financial institutions that bend to the woke mind virus spread by regulators and NGOs, so that they have to pay a price for putting extreme leftwing ideology ahead of consumers,” he said.

Leo has spent more than two decades at the influential Federalist Society, guiding conservative judges into the federal courts and the Supreme Court itself. In 2018, conservative justice Clarence Thomas joked that Leo was the third most important person in the world. Leo’s efforts culminated under Trump’s presidency, when three Federalist Society-backed judges were appointed to give conservatives on the Supreme Court a 6-3 supermajority, and profound influence over US law. The court has since then ruled to overturn the right to an abortion, among other long-sought rightwing causes. In 2020, after Trump lost the election, Leo stepped back from running the daily operations of the Federalist Society, while remaining its co-chair. The following year, Leo founded Marble, with a $1.6bn donation from electronic device manufacturing mogul Barre Seid, to be a counterweight to what he said was “dark money” of the left. He spent about $600mn in its first three years, according to public financial disclosures.

Leo said his goal was to find “very leveraged, impactful ways of reintroducing limited constitutional government and a civil society premised on freedom and personal responsibility and the virtues of western civilisation”. The $1bn money machine is now funding the conservative mission against private institutions, opposing diversity, equity and inclusion policies, climate and social concerns in investing and the “debanking” of politically conservative customers, in addition to taking on the public sector. The non-profit is increasingly interested in launching campaigns against “woke” banks and China-friendly companies involved in everything from food production to autonomous vehicles in the US and potentially Europe. Leo also intends to invest in a US local media company in the next 12 months, although he has not decided which, and is building conservative coalitions through groups such as Teneo Network, a club with chapters across the country. He also confirmed that Marble had since 2021 helped fund organisations that launched campaigns against companies with DEI, ESG and other initiatives, including BlackRock, Vanguard, American Airlines, Coca-Cola, State Farm, Major League Baseball and Ticketmaster.

The Financial Times interviewed right-wing dark money activist Leonard Leo, as he announced plans to launch a $1BN crusade to "‘crush" liberal America.

Leo has hinted that he’ll invest in an unnamed American media company within the next year.

[legendary-pink-dot]

WIP Wednesday Bonus

With one stylish, custom leather shoe planted firmly on the foot of the microphone stand to counterweight, he pulls your arms back against his chest. The curve of his nose slips through the sweaty valley between your shoulderblades, exposed by your risque (for the era) dress, and you arch into his touch against your better judgment. Don't act desperate, you remind yourself. Make him work for it.

He slides a hand down your leg and presses it against his so hard that you think the seam of your vintage stockings will be permanently etched into the back of your thighs tomorrow.

"Pretty little ingenue," Dieter/Victor snickers against your neck. "I like you. Maybe we do have room for two singers on stage tomorrow night."

You notice, not without a twinge of satisfaction, that Dieter's accent is starting to slip, as well as his consistency of character. You'll give him notes after this -- just like he felt entitled to give you.

---

Eventual fic of Dieter playing a slightly sleazy 1940s torch-song-club owner from Havana and an actress playing a cigarette girl who wants to upgrade her role. 😏 I'll need some extra time with this one to flesh out Dieter's characterization, since I've never written him before and am nervous. 😬

Paging @basicoccult @imalrightllama @exquisiteserotonin @youandmeand5bucks @secretelephanttattoo @rifflovesjoey @for-a-longlongtime and of course @rhoorl who hopefully won't judge my Dieter too harshly

[twatchesmall]

Polar Spectrum: Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra "Mirror of the Sky" American Naturalism Frenzy

At dawn on the Alaskan tundra, the dial of a stainless steel watch changes with the skylight, from glacier blue to aurora green - this is the Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra "Sky Mirror", an ecological timepiece equipped with revolutionary photochromic liquid crystal technology, which is sweeping the American elite circle with its magical dial that responds to the ambient light speed per second.

Nano-level optical revolution Liquid crystal molecular dome: The dial is injected with microencapsulated cholesteric liquid crystal (CLC), containing 210 million helical molecular units, which instantly reorganizes the lattice structure when exposed to ultraviolet rays

Spectral capture engine: UV sensor links the molecular deflection axis, and the hue change covers a wavelength of 480-560nm, accurately corresponding to the evolution of the sky from dawn to noon

Polar special coating: Anti-glare sapphire crystal coating contains rare earth praseodymium, which increases the absorption rate of high-latitude diffuse light by 300%

The hidden ecological mystery of the movement:

Carbon footprint measurement module embedded in the 8800 Master Chronometer movement: The rotor records 0.0001 grams of CO₂ equivalent per revolution, with an annual error of ±3%

The back of the watch is engraved with North American ecological coordinates: Yellowstone Crater/Yukon River Delta/Great Smoky Mountains, and the longitude is laser micro-engraved to deeply map the sunlight trajectory

The titanium alloy rotor counterweight contains Greenland ice core particles: encapsulating 79 years of climate data, symbolizing the oath to protect the glaciers

The belief totem of the American ecological community The dynamic instrument of the California Climate Laboratory The Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory sets the dial as the "atmospheric optical reference system": the critical point of liquid crystal blue to green (corresponding to UV index 5.0) becomes the safety threshold for outdoor experiments. The godfather of San Francisco venture capital even uses the dial hue as a buy signal for ESG funds.

The dialogue between the ancestors of the Yukon Aboriginal tribe The Tlingit chief regards the gradient color as the "appearance of the spirit of the aurora": "When the dial reflects the emerald luster, it is the time to meet the soul of the ice wolf." The tribal youth uses the dial to record the oral epic, and the hue changes correspond to the nodes of the mythological chapters.

Ethical declaration of New York fashion circle Designers implanted liquid crystal molecular structure into the 2024 autumn and winter series: under ultraviolet light, cashmere coats reproduce the dial's glacial blue to aurora green gradient. The Fifth Avenue flagship store has set up an "ecological mirror hall", and customers who purchase watches will receive a carbon footprint certificate NFT.

The medium of atonement for the Texas oil family Shale oil tycoon forced heirs to wear: "When the dial turns from blue to green, a million dollars must be injected into the clean energy fund." At the Houston charity dinner, the green light coverage of the dial directly determines the donation rate.

Process code Liquid crystal encapsulation: Each microcapsule has a diameter of 12μm, a wall thickness of 0.2μm, Rolex replica watches and can withstand extreme temperature differences from -40℃ to +85℃ Carbon measurement principle: The power generation of the automatic rotor electromagnetic damping system is converted into emission reduction equivalent, 1 joule = 0.28 grams of CO₂ Ice core encapsulation: taken from the NEEM ice core in Greenland at a depth of 79 meters, and the bubbles contain volcanic ash particles from 221 BC

[the-girl-from-dres]

Extract from Thirkenforth Locomotive Works' 1937 Product Catalogue

MARK EIGHT GENERAL USE AUTOMATON Anatomy, Part One: The Head 1. Wireles transmitter/reciever, capable of interpreting Morse and Baudot coded messages.

2. Standard sound input/output systems (A simple microphone and pair of speaker cones)

3. Reinforced steel Brain Container (General Use Automatons, or GUAs use a used human brain to manage logical decisions of all kinds)

4. Central Vision Apertures

5. Three-axis neck mounting point (Allows the head to turn in all directions)

6. Peripheral vision apertures

7. Counterweight (The head of a GUA is heavy, and thus needs to be balanced out on the other side)

8. Light-through-tape multi-expression system -a pseudo-eye

9. Oscilloscope-based pseudo-mouth (As GUAs are run by a human brain, they still retain the capability to feel emotions, though typically less so than the average person. The pseudo-eyes and mouth are systems by which a GUA may have a level of emotional expression.)

MARK EIGHT GENERAL USE AUTOMATON Anatomy, Part Two: The Arms

Two-Axis articulated digits -the fingers can bend in two directions, offering it a wider range of ways to grip things

Hydraulically actuated elbow joints give a high torque for lifting heavy objects.

Thirkenforth standard palm electromagnet for handling metallic objects -This is particularly useful for objects with no easy surface to grab onto.

Wide range of thumb motion allows for a stronger grip.

MARK EIGHT GENERAL USE AUTOMATON Anatomy, Part Three: The torso 1. Serial number and Thirkenforth Locomotive Works emblem are displayed on exterior panelling. TLW offers engraved nameplates to its customers for no additional cost.

2. A V-Twin petrol engine provides traction and power, in a more reliable and compact form compared to steam-based automatons.

3. An electric motor powers the Mass Reallocation Ring. Replacements may be purchased at a discount directly from TLW in the case of failure.

4. The Mk.III Mass Reallocation Ring offers unparalleled stability. The Mark Eight GUA actually uses two stacked on top of each other, such that the force created by movement of internal weights in one ring can be counteracted by the other.

MARK EIGHT GENERAL USE AUTOMATON Anatomy Part Four: The legs

Three-Axis pivoting hip joints give the leg a wide range of motion for superior navigation.

Detachable 'Cuisse', 'Polyen' and 'Greave' leg panels are an optional extra for automatons requiring additional protection for fragile mechanisms.

Knee joints are spring-loaded to improve weight handling characteristics.

Fully movable toes ensure the Mark Eight keeps its weight spread over a wide area, even on one leg.

For enquiries concerning the products of Thirkenforth Locomotive Works, send correspondence to 48 Ullesthorpe Road, Thirkenforth, Rutland LE17 2AQ.

[downwithpeople]

finished counter/weight

it wasn't bad!

most actual plays do about 0.5 systems - they nominally use dnd 5e but mainly just do freestyle rp. it's wild to hear someone kitbash together what, 6 fucking systems? multiple groups of players operating at multiple levels asymmetrically? what a big swing! it's so fucking ambitious! i don't even know if it's a good idea!

the big downside of the variety in systems means that a huge chunk of the airtime is spent explaining, discussing and negotiating mechanics. the mechnoir portion was the absolute worst for this and i think part of what made the first session or two so rough was the players just not understanding the game or how to effectively use their characters. the benefit of this immense variety of systems is...i don't know? maybe it's fun to play? i didn't feel like the extended kingdom interlude was that interesting and i would have definitely preferred the events of that to be relayed to me in a 10-minute convo rather than negotiated through another system where the players seem barely cognizant of the stakes.

i found it very difficult to understand what was going on with the setting. a lot of setting names are thrown at you very fast and at this point i still don't know if i could confidently describe all of the big movers and shakers in the setting. still not 100% on who the rapid evening are, who diego rose was, who most of the big corps are and why they matter. i don't hate any of what i learned but i'm not sold on the divines in general. rigour is cool because i understand what rigour is and does. i don't get how righteousness works, nor any of the divines which aren't a giant robot. even at the end, when they were saying shit like 'ooh grace won't like that' i still didn't understand what that meant or why it mattered. maybe i'm just too stupid. that said, the parts that i did understand i thought were pretty decent.

i liked the chime and i liked the cast. audy was cool and had some great moments tho as i said, still don't know why their status as a divine matters. aria seemed like an insanely poor fit for the group but i like ali acampora as an entertainer so it balances out. mako was consistently delightful and the introduction of larry was my favourite character beat in the season. cass didn't make that much of an impression on me and it was too easy to forget they were royalty. i think austin should have laid down the law super hard in the first session and been like 'hey you guys are criminals, you are mercenaries, you do crimes for money, be on that wavelength' instead of like, however the fuck he described their deal with orth.

big fucking mistake: the custom XP triggers he worked out. podcast or no, do NOT ever give players a mechanical incentive to play suboptimally. players already play suboptimally; the mechanics should lead them by the nose into optimal play strategies. i would not recommend giving a player like keith an incentive to fuck up the mission with antics unless you want to ruin your friendships.

i think i would have enjoyed a less structured game along the lines of what is actually suggested by the rules of the sprawl. i guess this is just actual play podcasts in general but the thing is, most PBTA games make it pretty explicit that the game works best when you come in with a set of starting positions and assumptions instead of a predetermined storyline. austin can't help but come in with a big sheaf of predetermined storylines, down to specific planned scenes and even fucking maps. i would love to hear a podcast where someone plays the game as written for once.

i have no idea where to go from here. i'm sure as shit not listening to marielda because i know it will make me big nerd angry. i am not so invested in the setting that i absolutely must find out what happens in twilight mirage. if the hieron stuff is good maybe i'll listen to that next but i think i'm gonna give fatt a break for a while.

my OC for counterweight is the candidate of the divine antipathy.

[clavissionary-position]

Gilbert x Reader, Right Ventricle Left Atrium

tags: fluff, slice-of-life

Sometimes the night is for fishing things Gilbert dropped into the ancient, empty well in the shadow of the tallest castle tower when he was younger. Round, square, big, small, light, heavy; objects found in bedrooms, found in gutters, found in front of storefronts but never within; objects with no clear purpose at the time of discovery and yet Gilbert collected them and stored them at the bottom of the well to make new, customized things with to send to his penpals. Then an event happened shortly after and he never got the chance.

You accept what looks like a broken bottle but feels mossy and warm while Gilbert casts his self-rigged reel back into the well. "What were you planning to make with this?"

The clear night lets shadows linger on Gilbert, but he wears them like a happy smile. "I don't remember. I was far more imaginative as a kid than I am now. Hehe. You don't have to shudder like that. I wasn't so different from you at the time." His reel does most of the work, propped and secured on the well's stone lip with a palm-sized matrix of metallic counterweights.

"I don't remember doing... I take that back." There was that time with the kids in town and the rose tea heist. Semantically speaking, you'd committed your first and only crime at the age of seven. What Gilbert had done was far less illegal but just as whimsical in the way only a child could be.

Gilbert's chuckles ride on the soft hiss of his reel at work. He's come to hug you while he waits and while you continue to study the broken bottle. "I could have chosen a better storage than the bottom of a well, right? I wish I could say what was going through my mind then." He speaks like he's sharing someone else's anecdote and that's how you know that he absolutely remembers why he chose this place.

"I'm sure he cherished that time with you too," you say as you set the bottle beside the reel. "Children... People are funny like that. And it's the kind of thing that makes them loveable, don't you think?"

Gilbert drops his forehead against the back of your head. His embrace hasn't changed, but it somehow becomes more of what it is. His answer, silent everywhere the syllables are open, arrives and departs and leaves its gifts and ghosts at the threshold of your heart.

"If that's what you think... then I must have thought the same."

[homeelevatorsdelhi]

2 Person Home Lift Price in India

In recent years, Indian homeowners have started embracing the idea of installing home lifts, not just as a luxury, but as a practical solution for mobility and convenience. Whether it's a multi-generational family home or a compact duplex, the demand for small, efficient, and stylish lifts has surged. Among these, 2-person home lifts have gained significant popularity for their compact design and affordability. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the 2 person home lift price in India, factors influencing the cost, the types available, and why vacuum home lifts are making headlines in the residential lift segment.

Why Opt for a 2-Person Home Lift?

Modern urban homes, especially in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, and Bangalore, are increasingly going vertical. However, not every home has the space for a large, commercial-style elevator. A 2-person home lift is the ideal choice for such homes because it:

Fits easily within compact residential spaces

Offers a safe and convenient mode of vertical transport

Adds value and sophistication to the home

Is relatively more affordable than larger home elevators

Requires minimal civil work and structural alterations

Comes with advanced safety features suitable for homes with children and senior citizens

Whether it’s for ease of movement or future-proofing a house for elderly family members, investing in a home lift is a wise decision.

Types of 2-Person Home Lifts Available in India

Before discussing the 2 person home lift price India, it’s essential to understand the various types of small home lifts available in the market. Different lift mechanisms come with varying prices, installation requirements, and features.

1️⃣ Hydraulic Home Lifts

These operate using hydraulic fluid and pistons. They are quiet and smooth but require a machine room or pit, which could increase installation costs.

2️⃣ Traction (MRL) Home Lifts

These lifts work with ropes or belts and a counterweight system. Machine-Room-Less (MRL) traction lifts are popular for their energy efficiency and smooth operation but may require a shaft.

3️⃣ Vacuum Home Lifts

One of the most talked-about innovations in home mobility, vacuum home lifts work on air pressure, making them space-saving and energy-efficient. They do not require pits, machine rooms, or extensive civil work and can be installed within a week.

2 Person Home Lift Price in India: A Detailed Overview

The cost of installing a 2-person home lift can vary widely depending on multiple factors like lift type, brand, customization options, number of floors, and installation requirements. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown:

Basic Price Range

Hydraulic Home Lift ₹5,50,000 to ₹12,00,000

Traction Home Lift ₹6,00,000 to ₹13,00,000

Vacuum Home Lift ₹7,50,000 to ₹18,00,000

Note: These are indicative prices and can fluctuate based on brand, installation city, customization, and import duties.

Factors That Affect Home Lift Price

Understanding the factors that influence the home lift price can help you budget better and make an informed purchase decision.

📌 Number of Floors

The price increases with the number of stops or floors covered by the lift. A lift for a ground-plus-one home would cost less than a lift servicing four floors.

📌 Type of Lift

As mentioned earlier, vacuum home lifts typically cost more than hydraulic or traction lifts due to their advanced technology and minimal civil work requirements.

📌 Customization

Homeowners often prefer customized interiors with options like glass doors, designer cabin walls, wood-finish flooring, or touch-screen controls, which can add to the total price.

📌 Load Capacity

Though this guide focuses on 2-person home lifts, options with slightly higher capacities (300–450 kg) can come with higher costs.

📌 Brand and Service Network

International brands tend to charge a premium. However, they often offer superior after-sales service, which is crucial for home lift maintenance.

📌 Installation and Civil Work

Depending on your home’s existing structure, additional costs may be incurred for shaft construction, electrical work, or structural modifications.

Vacuum Home Lifts: The New Favorite in Indian Homes

Among all lift options, vacuum home lifts have rapidly become a preferred choice for urban Indian homeowners. Here’s why:

✅ Space-Saving Design

These lifts have a self-supporting structure and do not require a pit, machine room, or overhead space.

✅ Quick Installation

Most vacuum lifts can be installed within 5–7 working days, minimizing disruption to daily life.

✅ Energy Efficiency

They consume power only during ascent and use gravity during descent, reducing overall energy consumption.

✅ Safety Features

They come equipped with interlocking doors, emergency brakes, battery backup, and telephone systems for added safety.

✅ Aesthetic Appeal

With their cylindrical, futuristic design and glass walls, vacuum home lifts double as a stylish interior element.

Is It Worth Investing in a 2-Person Home Lift?

Given the changing lifestyle preferences and rising awareness about home accessibility, a home lift is no longer a luxury reserved for the elite. A compact 2-person home lift ensures:

Better convenience for senior citizens and physically challenged family members

Ease in carrying groceries, luggage, and other heavy items between floors

Future-proofing your home against mobility-related challenges

Enhanced property value and aesthetic appeal

Especially in metros and tier-1 cities, property developers and homeowners are increasingly opting for vacuum home lifts due to their hassle-free installation and modern design.

Maintenance and After-Sales Service

Another important factor in determining the overall home lift price is the cost of maintenance. Regular servicing ensures the lift remains safe and operational for years.

Annual Maintenance Contract (AMC) charges for a 2-person home lift typically range between ₹15,000 to ₹30,000 per year, depending on the lift type and service plan.

Vacuum home lifts generally have lower maintenance requirements due to their fewer moving parts and self-supporting structure.

Top Brands Offering 2-Person Home Lifts in India

Several reputed brands offer reliable and certified 2-person home lifts in the Indian market. Some of the prominent names include:

Elite Elevators

Nibav Lifts

TK Access Solutions

Kone

Otis

Johnson Lifts

Schindler

Among these, Elite Elevators and Nibav Lifts are especially popular for their vacuum home lifts tailored for residential spaces.

Tips to Choose the Right Home Lift

When investing in a home lift, it’s essential to make an informed decision. Here’s what to consider:

Assess your home’s structural capacity and available space

Decide the number of stops (floors) needed

Compare the pros and cons of different lift types

Check for certifications like EN81 and European Safety Standards

Choose a brand with a strong service and support network

Get multiple quotes and consider the AMC cost

Final Thoughts: 2 Person Home Lift Price in India

The concept of installing a 2-person home lift has gone from being an indulgence to a necessity in many Indian homes. With increased awareness about home accessibility, safety, and convenience, more families are choosing compact, efficient, and stylish home elevators.

While the 2 person home lift price in India typically ranges between ₹5,50,000 to ₹18,00,000, factors like lift type, number of floors, customization, and brand can significantly influence the final cost. Among various types, vacuum home lifts are steadily capturing the market with their space-saving design, quick installation, and modern appeal.

If you’re considering adding a home lift, it’s advisable to assess your needs, consult certified suppliers, and choose a solution that balances functionality, safety, and style. Investing in a home lift today not only enhances your property value but also prepares your home for a comfortable and accessible future.

[devishree3]

Everything You Need to Know About Residential Elevators: Types, Features & Installation

As homeowners increasingly look for ways to future-proof their properties and enhance accessibility, residential elevators are no longer a luxury—they're a smart investment. Whether you're planning for aging in place, accommodating mobility needs, or simply adding a modern convenience, installing a home elevator can dramatically improve your quality of life.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about residential elevators, including the different types, must-have features, and what to expect during installation—with a special focus on Nibav Lifts, a global leader in home elevator innovation.

🏠 What Are Residential Elevators?

Residential elevators are compact lift systems designed to transport people between floors in a private home. Unlike commercial elevators, they're typically smaller, require less construction work, and offer more aesthetic customization.

🚀 Types of Residential Elevators

Here are the most common types of residential elevators, including the cutting-edge technology used by Nibav Lifts:

1. Pneumatic Elevators (Used by Nibav Lifts)

How it works: Uses air pressure and vacuum technology.

Benefits: No machine room or pit required, 360° panoramic view, eco-friendly.

Ideal for: Homes with limited space or modern architectural design.

2. Hydraulic Elevators

How it works: Uses fluid pressure and a piston to raise/lower the cab.

Pros: Smooth, quiet ride; high weight capacity.

Cons: Requires a pit and machine room.

3. Traction Elevators (MRL - Machine Room-Less)

How it works: Uses cables and counterweights.

Pros: Energy-efficient and compact.

Cons: More complex installation and servicing.

4. Chain-Driven or Screw-Drive Elevators

Budget-friendly options, but generally louder and less smooth than pneumatic or hydraulic models.

🌟 Why Choose Nibav Lifts?

Nibav Lifts stands out in the residential elevator industry for combining innovation, design, and safety into one seamless experience. Their vacuum elevators are built for modern homes and require minimal civil work—making them ideal for both new constructions and retrofits.

Key Features of Nibav Residential Elevators:

✔️ Self-supporting structure (no need for a shaft or pit)

✔️ Eco-friendly operation with low power consumption

✔️ European safety standards (CE & TUV certified)

✔️ Panoramic glass design for aesthetics and visibility

✔️ Quick installation—as fast as 24–48 hours

✔️ Wheelchair accessibility (Series III Max & IV Max)

🛠️ Installation Process

Installing a Nibav residential elevator is designed to be hassle-free and completed in just a few steps:

1. Site Evaluation

A team evaluates your home’s structure and space to determine the best installation point—corner, center, or adjacent to a staircase.

2. Customization & Design

Choose from multiple cabin sizes, colors, and finishes to match your interior.

3. Installation

Nibav elevators come pre-assembled and require no pit, machine room, or heavy civil work. This allows for fast, clean installations in 2–3 days.

4. Testing & Handover

All safety checks are performed, and your elevator is ready for use with minimal maintenance requirements.

💡 Who Should Consider a Residential Elevator?

Seniors or people with mobility challenges

Families planning to age in place

Homeowners wanting to increase property value

Architects designing multilevel modern homes

📈 The Value Add

Installing a residential elevator like Nibav’s pneumatic lifts can:

Boost your home’s resale value

Make your home future-ready

Add a touch of luxury and convenience

🔚 Final Thoughts

Residential elevators are rapidly becoming a standard feature in modern multi-level homes. And with advanced models like those from Nibav Lifts, you no longer need to compromise on space, style, or safety. Whether you're upgrading your current home or building a new one, Nibav offers the perfect blend of technology, elegance, and ease of installation.

[misfitwashere]

July 2, 2025

HEATHER COX RICHARDSON

JUL 3

READ IN APP

The Senate’s passage of its version of the budget reconciliation bill yesterday sent House members rushing back to Washington today to debate passing what the Senate had sent them. The bill is hugely unpopular. It cuts taxes for the wealthiest Americans and corporations and slashes Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, energy credits, and other programs that help the American people, while also pouring money into Immigration and Customs Enforcement and detention facilities for migrants.

While Democratic representatives are united against the measure, people from across the country are flooding lawmakers with calls and demonstrations against the bill in hopes of swaying Republicans. At the office of Representative Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), hundreds of his constituents held a die-in to demonstrate how cuts to healthcare in the bill would affect them.

Far-right Republicans think the bill doesn’t make steep enough cuts; Republicans from swing districts recognize that supporting it will badly hurt both their constituents and their hopes of reelection. But Trump has demanded Congress pass the measure before July 4, an arbitrary date he seems to have chosen because of its historical significance.

A new element in the Republicans’ calculation emerged a few days ago as billionaire Elon Musk reentered the fight over the measure, warning he would start a new political party over it. He has threatened to run primary challengers against lawmakers who vote yes, a threat that is a counterweight to Trump’s threat to run primary challengers against lawmakers who vote no. Already Musk has claimed to be donating to the reelection campaign of Representative Thomas Massie (R-KY), an outspoken opponent of the bill.

Representative Sean Casten (D-IL) wrote today about the dysfunction on the House floor. “A functioning House leadership team would work the members, make changes as necessary and bring this bill to the floor once they knew they could pass it. But [speaker] Mike Johnson does not run a functional House leadership team. He does what Daddy says and Daddy said pass it before July 4.” This morning, the House took a procedural vote, but recognizing that they did not have the votes to pass the bill itself, Republican leadership refused to close the vote.

Later, House leadership held another vote open for more than two hours when they could not win it. When Representative Joe Neguse (D-CO) challenged this trick, the chair told him that the rules established a minimum time for votes, but no maximum.

To find the votes Republicans need to pass the bill, Trump met today with those expected to vote no. Riley Rogerson and Reese Gorman of NOTUSreported that at a meeting with some of the swing-state Republican holdouts, Trump seemed to believe the lie that the bill doesn’t cut Medicaid. Three sources told the reporters Trump told Republicans they shouldn’t touch Medicaid, Medicare, or Social Security if they want to win elections. “But we’re touching Medicaid in this bill,” one of the members at the meeting answered.

Trump also met with far-right members, but because the Senate measure must pass the House unchanged, he can offer them little except to promise they will fix the bill after it passes. While that appeared to work on at least one representative, Representative Tim Burchett (R-TN) told the NOTUSreporters: “Now we’re having to once again hear the line, ‘Let’s pass this and then we’ll fix it later,’ And we never fix it later, and America knows that.”

Political journalist Judd Legum of Popular Information posted: “To review: Trump spent all day rounding up votes for his mega bill[.] Trump did not round up enough votes[.] So the ‘plan’ was just to start voting and bully anyone who votes no until they switch their vote[.] (It could work.)”

Democrats called out Republicans from swing districts, listing the numbers of their constituents who will lose healthcare insurance if the measure passes. They urged Republicans to stand up to Donald Trump, and to stand up for their constituents.

Pennsylvania representative Fitzpatrick faced the die-in at his office and was also so angry at today’s news Trump is withholding weapons already pledged to Ukraine that he wrote to Trump today, warning that Ukraine is “holding the line for the entire democratic world” and asking for an emergency briefing on the decision to withhold aid. He voted no on a key procedural vote tonight.

Just after 10:00 tonight, NBC News Capitol Hill correspondent Melanie Zanona reported: “Republicans are trying [to] locate Rep[resentative] Brian Fitzpatrick, who delivered a surprising NO vote on the mega bill rule. Likely to try to flip him. I told a member I saw him bolt out of the chamber & leave the area. ‘Smart,’ the member said.”

As of midnight, the Republicans did not have the votes to advance the measure.

Representative Maxwell Frost (D-FL) posted: “Speaker Johnson should just take the L on this vote. Most of America doesn’t want this bill to pass anyways. It’s…both the worst and most unpopular piece of legislation in modern history.”

On Bluesky, user shauna wrote: “say what you will about [former Democratic House speaker] nancy pelosi (as one of her constituents believe me i have) she'd have impaled herself with a gavel live on the house floor before she'd have allowed this sh*tshow of a vote on her watch as speaker.”

—

[automotocatalog]

Are Custom Tesla Steering Wheels Worth the Investment?

Tesla vehicles are renowned for their cutting-edge technology, sleek design, and minimalist interiors. But for many owners, personalization is what truly makes the car feel like their own. Among the most impactful modifications you can make is upgrading your Tesla steering wheel. But is it really worth the investment? Let’s take a closer look at what custom steering wheels offer and whether they’re a smart upgrade. Content Style Meets Personalization Enhanced Comfort and Grip Improved Functionality Are There Any Downsides? So, Is It Worth It? Style Meets Personalization One of the primary reasons Tesla owners opt for custom steering wheels is the ability to reflect their personal style. Factory wheels are clean and functional, but they may lack the sporty, luxurious, or futuristic aesthetic that many drivers desire. Custom options—like carbon fiber, Alcantara, and leather finishes—can instantly elevate your interior. Some designs even mimic the iconic yoke-style wheel from the latest Model S and X. A customized Tesla steering wheel can make your car feel more unique and exciting to drive. Whether you prefer a racing-inspired look or a luxury vibe, there’s a style to match your vision. Enhanced Comfort and Grip Beyond aesthetics, comfort is a major reason drivers upgrade. Many custom wheels are ergonomically designed, offering a better grip, softer materials, and sometimes heating elements—ideal for colder climates. If you spend a lot of time behind the wheel, a more comfortable grip can significantly improve your driving experience. Improved Functionality Some aftermarket steering wheels offer functional upgrades as well. Heated wheels, built-in paddle shifters, or even customizable button configurations can be found in premium models. For daily drivers or long-distance travelers, these small upgrades can translate into meaningful convenience. You can also find accessories like steering wheel trays for parked use, or “nag reduction” counterweights that minimize Autopilot interruptions (though it’s important to use these responsibly and within legal guidelines). Are There Any Downsides? While there are many benefits, it’s fair to consider potential downsides. Quality varies significantly between brands, so it’s important to purchase from a reputable source. Poorly manufactured wheels may not fit correctly or may lack safety features like proper airbag integration. Additionally, some drivers worry that aftermarket parts could void warranty coverage. While a custom Tesla steering wheel won’t automatically void your warranty, it’s important to confirm compatibility and ensure installation is done properly—either professionally or with great care if you’re doing it yourself. So, Is It Worth It? If you’re looking to enhance your Tesla’s interior with a personal touch, boost comfort, and enjoy added features, a custom steering wheel can absolutely be worth the investment. It’s a practical mod that combines form and function, offering both style and daily driving benefits. Just make sure to shop smart. Reputable online retailers like Tesla Accessories specialize in high-quality Tesla steering wheels, giving you peace of mind that your upgrade will be both safe and stylish. Whether you’re a performance enthusiast or simply want your Tesla to feel more “you,” upgrading your steering wheel is one of the most impactful modifications you can make. The post Are Custom Tesla Steering Wheels Worth the Investment? appeared first on Auto Moto Blog. from Auto Moto Blog https://ift.tt/85ZVSdp originally published at Auto Moto Blog

[yourreddancer]

Heather Cox Richardson

July 2, 2025 Heather Cox Richardson Jul 3 The Senate’s passage of its version of the budget reconciliation bill yesterday sent House members rushing back to Washington today to debate passing what the Senate had sent them. The bill is hugely unpopular. It cuts taxes for the wealthiest Americans and corporations and slashes Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, energy credits, and other programs that help the American people, while also pouring money into Immigration and Customs Enforcement and detention facilities for migrants.

While Democratic representatives are united against the measure, people from across the country are flooding lawmakers with calls and demonstrations against the bill in hopes of swaying Republicans. At the office of Representative Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), hundreds of his constituents held a die-in to demonstrate how cuts to healthcare in the bill would affect them.

Far-right Republicans think the bill doesn’t make steep enough cuts; Republicans from swing districts recognize that supporting it will badly hurt both their constituents and their hopes of reelection. But Trump has demanded Congress pass the measure before July 4, an arbitrary date he seems to have chosen because of its historical significance.

A new element in the Republicans’ calculation emerged a few days ago as billionaire Elon Musk reentered the fight over the measure, warning he would start a new political party over it. He has threatened to run primary challengers against lawmakers who vote yes, a threat that is a counterweight to Trump’s threat to run primary challengers against lawmakers who vote no. Already Musk has claimed to be donating to the reelection campaign of Representative Thomas Massie (R-KY), an outspoken opponent of the bill.

Representative Sean Casten (D-IL) wrote today about the dysfunction on the House floor. “A functioning House leadership team would work the members, make changes as necessary and bring this bill to the floor once they knew they could pass it. But [speaker] Mike Johnson does not run a functional House leadership team. He does what Daddy says and Daddy said pass it before July 4.” This morning, the House took a procedural vote, but recognizing that they did not have the votes to pass the bill itself, Republican leadership refused to close the vote.

Later, House leadership held another vote open for more than two hours when they could not win it. When Representative Joe Neguse (D-CO) challenged this trick, the chair told him that the rules established a minimum time for votes, but no maximum.

To find the votes Republicans need to pass the bill, Trump met today with those expected to vote no. Riley Rogerson and Reese Gorman of NOTUS reported that at a meeting with some of the swing-state Republican holdouts, Trump seemed to believe the lie that the bill doesn’t cut Medicaid. Three sources told the reporters Trump told Republicans they shouldn’t touch Medicaid, Medicare, or Social Security if they want to win elections. “But we’re touching Medicaid in this bill,” one of the members at the meeting answered.

Trump also met with far-right members, but because the Senate measure must pass the House unchanged, he can offer them little except to promise they will fix the bill after it passes. While that appeared to work on at least one representative, Representative Tim Burchett (R-TN) told the NOTUS reporters: “Now we’re having to once again hear the line, ‘Let’s pass this and then we’ll fix it later,’ And we never fix it later, and America knows that.”

Political journalist Judd Legum of Popular Information posted: “To review: Trump spent all day rounding up votes for his mega bill[.] Trump did not round up enough votes[.] So the ‘plan’ was just to start voting and bully anyone who votes no until they switch their vote[.] (It could work.)”

Democrats called out Republicans from swing districts, listing the numbers of their constituents who will lose healthcare insurance if the measure passes. They urged Republicans to stand up to Donald Trump, and to stand up for their constituents.

Pennsylvania representative Fitzpatrick faced the die-in at his office and was also so angry at today’s news Trump is withholding weapons already pledged to Ukraine that he wrote to Trump today, warning that Ukraine is “holding the line for the entire democratic world” and asking for an emergency briefing on the decision to withhold aid. He voted no on a key procedural vote tonight.

Just after 10:00 tonight, NBC News Capitol Hill correspondent Melanie Zanona reported: “Republicans are trying [to] locate Rep[resentative] Brian Fitzpatrick, who delivered a surprising NO vote on the mega bill rule. Likely to try to flip him. I told a member I saw him bolt out of the chamber & leave the area. ‘Smart,’ the member said.”

As of midnight, the Republicans did not have the votes to advance the measure.

Representative Maxwell Frost (D-FL) posted: “Speaker Johnson should just take the L on this vote. Most of America doesn’t want this bill to pass anyways. It’s…both the worst and most unpopular piece of legislation in modern history.”

On Bluesky, user shauna wrote: “say what you will about [former Democratic House speaker] nancy pelosi (as one of her constituents believe me i have) she'd have impaled herself with a gavel live on the house floor before she'd have allowed this sh*tshow of a vote on her watch as speaker.”

—

[minosbull]

The Senate’s passage of its version of the budget reconciliation bill yesterday sent House members rushing back to Washington today to debate passing what the Senate had sent them. The bill is hugely unpopular. It cuts taxes for the wealthiest Americans and corporations and slashes Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, energy credits, and other programs that help the American people, while also pouring money into Immigration and Customs Enforcement and detention facilities for migrants.

While Democratic representatives are united against the measure, people from across the country are flooding lawmakers with calls and demonstrations against the bill in hopes of swaying Republicans. At the office of Representative Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), hundreds of his constituents held a die-in to demonstrate how cuts to healthcare in the bill would affect them.

Far-right Republicans think the bill doesn’t make steep enough cuts; Republicans from swing districts recognize that supporting it will badly hurt both their constituents and their hopes of reelection. But Trump has demanded Congress pass the measure before July 4, an arbitrary date he seems to have chosen because of its historical significance.

A new element in the Republicans’ calculation emerged a few days ago as billionaire Elon Musk reentered the fight over the measure, warning he would start a new political party over it. He has threatened to run primary challengers against lawmakers who vote yes, a threat that is a counterweight to Trump’s threat to run primary challengers against lawmakers who vote no. Already Musk has claimed to be donating to the reelection campaign of Representative Thomas Massie (R-KY), an outspoken opponent of the bill.

Representative Sean Casten (D-IL) wrote today about the dysfunction on the House floor. “A functioning House leadership team would work the members, make changes as necessary and bring this bill to the floor once they knew they could pass it. But [speaker] Mike Johnson does not run a functional House leadership team. He does what Daddy says and Daddy said pass it before July 4.” This morning, the House took a procedural vote, but recognizing that they did not have the votes to pass the bill itself, Republican leadership refused to close the vote.

Later, House leadership held another vote open for more than two hours when they could not win it. When Representative Joe Neguse (D-CO) challenged this trick, the chair told him that the rules established a minimum time for votes, but no maximum.

To find the votes Republicans need to pass the bill, Trump met today with those expected to vote no. Riley Rogerson and Reese Gorman of NOTUS reported that at a meeting with some of the swing-state Republican holdouts, Trump seemed to believe the lie that the bill doesn’t cut Medicaid. Three sources told the reporters Trump told Republicans they shouldn’t touch Medicaid, Medicare, or Social Security if they want to win elections. “But we’re touching Medicaid in this bill,” one of the members at the meeting answered.

Trump also met with far-right members, but because the Senate measure must pass the House unchanged, he can offer them little except to promise they will fix the bill after it passes. While that appeared to work on at least one representative, Representative Tim Burchett (R-TN) told the NOTUS reporters: “Now we’re having to once again hear the line, ‘Let’s pass this and then we’ll fix it later,’ And we never fix it later, and America knows that.”

Political journalist Judd Legum of Popular Information posted: “To review: Trump spent all day rounding up votes for his mega bill[.] Trump did not round up enough votes[.] So the ‘plan’ was just to start voting and bully anyone who votes no until they switch their vote[.] (It could work.)”

Democrats called out Republicans from swing districts, listing the numbers of their constituents who will lose healthcare insurance if the measure passes. They urged Republicans to stand up to Donald Trump, and to stand up for their constituents.

Pennsylvania representative Fitzpatrick faced the die-in at his office and was also so angry at today’s news Trump is withholding weapons already pledged to Ukraine that he wrote to Trump today, warning that Ukraine is “holding the line for the entire democratic world” and asking for an emergency briefing on the decision to withhold aid. He voted no on a key procedural vote tonight.

Just after 10:00 tonight, NBC News Capitol Hill correspondent Melanie Zanona reported: “Republicans are trying [to] locate Rep[resentative] Brian Fitzpatrick, who delivered a surprising NO vote on the mega bill rule. Likely to try to flip him. I told a member I saw him bolt out of the chamber & leave the area. ‘Smart,’ the member said.”

As of midnight, the Republicans did not have the votes to advance the measure.

Representative Maxwell Frost (D-FL) posted: “Speaker Johnson should just take the L on this vote. Most of America doesn’t want this bill to pass anyways. It’s…both the worst and most unpopular piece of legislation in modern history.”

On Bluesky, user shauna wrote: “say what you will about [former Democratic House speaker] nancy pelosi (as one of her constituents believe me i have) she'd have impaled herself with a gavel live on the house floor before she'd have allowed this sh*tshow of a vote on her watch as speaker.”

—

Notes:

https://www.notus.org/congress/reconciliation-timeline-slipping-trump

https://buckscountybeacon.com/2025/07/photo-essay-hundreds-participate-in-die-in-at-congressman-brian-fitzpatricks-office-to-highlight-deadly-stakes-of-gop-budget/

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/elon-musk-new-america-political-party-trump-feud-harder-than-it-sounds/

X:

MZanona/status/1940591910483374523

Bluesky:

seancasten.bsky.social/post/3lsz2hwkcyk2e

ronfilipkowski.bsky.social/post/3lsyxff65hs2n

joekatz45.bsky.social/post/3lsyebs3t5k2z

atrupar.com/post/3lsyg2bakhr2j

atrupar.com/post/3lsygcip63n22

goldengateblond.bsky.social/post/3lszo4cu4bc22

ronfilipkowski.bsky.social/post/3lszobh265k2o

eliothiggins.bsky.social/post/3lsvumiowfs2x

juddlegum.bsky.social/post/3lszpqcbqvk2a

maxwellfrost.bsky.social/post/3lszvel62s22h

maks23.bsky.social/post/3lsyvdwjel223

[twatchesmall]

Lange 1 East German Replica – Tungsten Revolution in the Cracks of the Iron Curtain

Free frequency in tungsten alloy: secret timepieces before the fall of the Berlin Wall

In 1983, in Dresden, East Germany, Lange watchmaker Heinz Faber secretly built a prototype of a tungsten steel watch in a state-owned factory under the name of "tractor parts research and development". When Lange in West Germany restarted the brand in 1990, the fragments of tungsten alloy movement buried deep in the base of the machine tool finally saw the light of day in the 2023 replica watches.

Technological rebellion of the replica The original version hides three subversive designs:

⚙️ Tungsten steel balance wheel: density of 19.25g/cm³ (2.3 times heavier than traditional materials), no lubricating oil is required to fight against inferior oil

📡 Magnetic field generator core: automatic winding using the magnetic field of the Stasi monitoring equipment

🔓 Prisoner code strap: political prisoner numbers are engraved inside each bracelet, forming a wall gap pattern

Replica historical refinement Modern Lange combines the technologies of East and West Germany:

Concrete dial: real Berlin Wall fragments are mixed in, and the map of the escape tunnel in 1989 is laser-etched

Dual calendar: displays East Germany's "production quota achievement date" and West Germany's date at the same time

Voice of Freedom device: replays Beethoven's "Ode to Joy" in front of the Brandenburg Gate at the hour

Tungsten steel recycling process: recycles the counterweight of East German MiG-21 fighters to recast the case

Miniature witness of the Cold War The bottom cover is made of Stasi bug metal, engraved with Faber's enlightenment motto:

"Precise gears never succumb to the wrong system" When light shines on the crown, it projects the customs clearance document of November 9, 1989 - the day when Faber defected with the movement blueprint.