Busted! When AI writing goes off the rails!

I routinely look at articles discussing Apple iPhone’s “Dynamic Island”. It’s a relatively new feature on iPhones and a new feature for me as this is the first iPhone I’ve owned that incorporated it.

Every once in a while I’ll have an app running, then switch to something else. At these times I’m made aware of the Dynamic Island because interesting information from one or more apps is displayed in the island.

Not all apps support Dynamic Island, nor do they need to. However, I’m always intrigued when an app puts something in the island.

This morning I ran across this article about the DI and had a really good laugh after my brain rebooted once or twice. The article starts getting really funny in the “Apple’s Vision for the Dynamic Island” section.

Here for your amusement is a copy of the article in case someone over at cellularnews.com wakes up and realizes the AI made up all the content.

I suppose it’s possible that cellularnews.com or the listed source thesweetsetup.com are a completely bogus site designed for nothing but pushing advertisements. Perhaps this article is satire?


Apple Reveals Its Actual Thoughts On The Dynamic Island

Written by: Blaire Lubin | Last updated on January 24, 2024

Tech Insights & Trends

Industry News

Mobile Accessories

apple-reveals-its-actual-thoughts-on-the-dynamic-island

Source: Thesweetsetup.com

When it comes to cell phones and mobile accessories, Apple has always been at the forefront of innovation and design. Their latest revelation, the Dynamic Island, is no exception. Apple’s new product promises to revolutionize the way we interact with our mobile devices. But what are Apple’s actual thoughts on the Dynamic Island? In this article, we will delve into the minds of Apple and explore their insights and vision behind this groundbreaking creation. From the design concept to the functionality, we will uncover the secrets that make the Dynamic Island a must-have accessory for every cell phone user. So, let’s dive in and discover Apple’s true perspective on the Dynamic Island.

Inside This Article

Apple’s Vision for the Dynamic Island

The Technological Innovations of the Dynamic Island

The Environmental Impact of the Dynamic Island

The Potential Challenges and Benefits of the Dynamic Island

Conclusion

FAQs

Apple’s Vision for the Dynamic Island

Apple is renowned for its groundbreaking innovations in the tech industry. From the iPhone to the Apple Watch, the company has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible in the world of technology. Now, Apple is turning its attention to a new frontier: the creation of a Dynamic Island.

So, what exactly is a Dynamic Island? According to Apple, it is a revolutionary concept that combines cutting-edge technology with sustainable design principles. The goal is to create an island that is not only a place to live and work but also a living ecosystem that adapts and evolves with the needs of its inhabitants.

At the core of Apple’s vision for the Dynamic Island is the integration of smart technologies. Imagine a place where buildings are seamlessly connected, and everything from lighting to transportation is controlled by an intelligent network. This would not only enhance the convenience and efficiency of daily life but also minimize waste and energy consumption.

But it doesn’t stop there. Apple’s vision also includes the utilization of renewable energy sources. Solar panels and wind turbines would be strategically incorporated into the island’s infrastructure, ensuring a sustainable and eco-friendly power supply. Additionally, advanced waste management systems would be implemented to minimize pollution and promote recycling.

One of the key aspects of the Dynamic Island is its adaptability. Apple envisions an island that can respond to the changing needs and desires of its residents. This means that buildings can be easily reconfigured or even moved to different locations, allowing for the flexible use of space. Whether it’s creating new residential areas, expanding commercial zones, or transforming public spaces, the Dynamic Island can accommodate it all.

Furthermore, Apple recognizes the importance of fostering a sense of community and connection within the Dynamic Island. The company plans to create vibrant public spaces where people can come together, collaborate, and socialize. Green parks, recreational facilities, and cultural venues will be carefully integrated into the island’s design, promoting a healthy and balanced lifestyle.

Apple’s vision for the Dynamic Island is an ambitious one, but it aligns perfectly with the company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. By creating a smart, adaptable, and eco-friendly living environment, Apple is setting the stage for a new era of urban development.

As the company continues to explore and refine its vision, we can expect to see even more exciting developments in the near future. The Dynamic Island represents a bold step forward in the evolution of smart cities and serves as a shining example of what is possible when technology and sustainability come together.

The Technological Innovations of the Dynamic Island

The Dynamic Island is not just a groundbreaking architectural marvel – it is also a testament to the limitless possibilities of technological innovation. From its inception, Apple envisioned the Dynamic Island as a hub of technological advancements that would redefine the way we interact with our environment and each other.

One of the most notable technological features of the Dynamic Island is its smart infrastructure. Powered by advanced IoT (Internet of Things) technology, the entire island is interconnected. Every building, streetlight, and vehicle is equipped with sensors and actuators, creating a network that constantly collects and analyzes data to optimize efficiency and enhance the island’s functionality.

Artificial intelligence (AI) plays a crucial role in the operations of the Dynamic Island. The AI-powered virtual assistants, embedded in every corner of the island, act as personal concierges, providing real-time information and personalized services to residents and visitors. Whether it’s finding the best route to a destination or recommending local attractions, the virtual assistants are there to make every experience on the island seamless and convenient.

The Dynamic Island is also a pioneer in renewable energy solutions. It harnesses solar panels and wind turbines strategically placed throughout the island to generate clean and sustainable energy. The advanced energy management system intelligently monitors and optimizes the distribution of this renewable energy, minimizing wastage and reducing the island’s carbon footprint.

Another technological breakthrough on the Dynamic Island is its integration of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) experiences. Visitors can immerse themselves in interactive virtual worlds or enhance their real-world encounters with digital overlays, giving rise to a new dimension of entertainment, education, and communication.

The transportation system on the Dynamic Island is perhaps one of its most awe-inspiring innovations. A network of autonomous vehicles, powered by electric engines, seamlessly navigates the island, offering efficient and eco-friendly transportation options. These cutting-edge vehicles communicate with the island’s smart infrastructure, ensuring a smooth and synchronized flow of traffic throughout the island.

The technological innovations on the Dynamic Island are not limited to buildings and infrastructure. The island provides its residents with seamless connectivity through advanced 5G networks, enabling high-speed internet access and facilitating the integration of smart devices into everyday life.

Overall, the Dynamic Island serves as a testament to Apple’s commitment to technological innovation and sustainable living. Its smart infrastructure, AI integration, renewable energy solutions, AR/VR experiences, autonomous transportation, and connectivity advancements make it a remarkable model for future cities and a true testament to the power of technology.

The Environmental Impact of the Dynamic Island

The Dynamic Island, with its advanced technological features and cutting-edge design, offers a plethora of benefits to users. However, it is essential to consider the environmental impact that this innovative creation may have. While the island is designed to be sustainable and eco-friendly, there are still important factors to consider.

1. Energy Consumption: The Dynamic Island utilizes various technologies that require a substantial amount of energy to function optimally. From its advanced lighting systems to its interactive screens, energy consumption is a significant consideration. Efforts must be made to ensure that the island’s energy needs are met using renewable sources, such as solar or wind power, to minimize its carbon footprint.

2. E-Waste Management: With the rapid advancement of technology, electronic waste (e-waste) has become a significant concern worldwide. The Dynamic Island, with its intricate components and sophisticated features, may also contribute to the e-waste stream. It is crucial for the creators of the island to implement effective recycling programs and promote responsible disposal of old or damaged components.

3. Environmental Preservation: The construction and maintenance of the Dynamic Island must take into account the impact on the surrounding environment. Special consideration should be given to the preservation of natural habitats, reduction of noise pollution, and protection of flora and fauna in the area. Additionally, sustainable materials and practices should be implemented during the construction process to minimize the ecological footprint.

4. Water Usage: The Dynamic Island incorporates various water features to enhance its appeal and functionality. However, the efficient use of water resources is paramount. Technologies such as water recycling systems and automated irrigation should be employed to ensure water conservation and minimize wastage.

5. Long-Term Sustainability: The environmental impact of the Dynamic Island should not only be considered during its construction phase but also its long-term sustainability. Regular monitoring and evaluation should be conducted to identify areas for improvement and ensure continuous adherence to eco-friendly practices.

The Potential Challenges and Benefits of the Dynamic Island

As exciting as the concept of the Dynamic Island may be, it is essential to consider both the potential challenges and benefits that accompany such a technological innovation. Let’s explore some of the key factors that could impact the success and implementation of this revolutionary idea.

Challenges

1. Infrastructure: Building a Dynamic Island from scratch would require a significant investment in infrastructure. The construction of this virtual paradise would involve the deployment of a vast network of sensors, communication systems, and power sources, presenting logistical challenges and costs.

2. Privacy and Security Concerns: With the integration of numerous sensors and IoT devices, privacy and security become critical concerns. Ensuring that personal data remains confidential and protected from cyber threats would require robust measures and protocols to safeguard user information.

3. Ethical Considerations: The Dynamic Island raises ethical questions surrounding the impact on wildlife and the environment. Constructing a virtual paradise could disrupt ecosystems and wildlife habitats, necessitating careful planning and mitigation strategies to minimize any negative effects on the natural world.

4. Social Inclusion: The implementation of the Dynamic Island shouldn’t exacerbate existing social inequalities. It is crucial to ensure equal access to the island’s benefits and opportunities, avoiding the creation of a digital divide between different socio-economic groups.

Benefits

1. Innovative Integration: The Dynamic Island offers the potential for seamless integration of various smart technologies. From smart homes to autonomous transportation systems, this interconnected environment could revolutionize the way we live, work, and interact with our surroundings.

2. Enhanced Sustainability: With a focus on green technologies and renewable energy sources, the Dynamic Island could serve as a model for sustainability. By implementing eco-friendly solutions and practices, such as efficient waste management and renewable energy generation, the island could significantly reduce its ecological footprint.

3. Improved Quality of Life: The Dynamic Island would aim to enhance the overall quality of life for its residents. Smart healthcare systems, advanced AI-assisted services, and seamless connectivity would contribute to convenience, efficiency, and overall well-being.

4. Economic Opportunities: The implementation of the Dynamic Island would generate a wide array of economic opportunities. The construction, maintenance, and management of the infrastructure would lead to job creation, technological innovation, and sector growth, stimulating the local economy.

Conclusion

As we conclude our exploration of Apple’s thoughts on the Dynamic Island, it becomes evident that the tech giant recognizes the potential of this innovative concept. With its emphasis on modular and customizable mobile accessories, the Dynamic Island opens up a whole new world of possibilities for smartphone users. Apple’s enthusiasm for this idea is reflected in their commitment to research and development, as well as their collaboration with accessory manufacturers.

By embracing the Dynamic Island, Apple is not only catering to the evolving needs and preferences of their customers but also setting a new standard for mobile accessories in the industry. The integration of advanced technologies, sustainability-driven design, and seamless user experience is set to redefine how we interact with our smartphones.

As we eagerly await the release of Apple’s Dynamic Island, it’s clear that this groundbreaking concept will revolutionize the way we use and accessorize our mobile devices. The possibilities are endless, and the future of mobile accessories looks brighter than ever.

FAQs

1. What are mobile accessories?

Mobile accessories refer to supplementary devices or products that are used to enhance the functionality, aesthetics, or protection of mobile phones. These accessories can include items such as cases, screen protectors, chargers, headphones, power banks, and more.

2. Why should I invest in mobile accessories?

Investing in mobile accessories can greatly enhance your overall mobile experience. Accessories like cases and screen protectors offer protection against physical damage and scratches, while chargers and power banks ensure you never run out of battery power. Headphones and Bluetooth speakers improve audio quality, and mobile stands or mounts provide convenience for hands-free usage.

3. Are all mobile accessories compatible with all phone models?

No, not all mobile accessories are compatible with every phone model. Manufacturers create accessories specifically designed for certain phone models, taking into consideration factors like measurements, ports, and features. Therefore, it is essential to choose accessories that are compatible with your specific phone model to ensure a proper fit and functionality.

4. How do I choose the right mobile accessories?

Choosing the right mobile accessories depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider factors such as the type of protection you require, the desired functionalities, and the overall aesthetics that align with your personal style. Additionally, make sure to check compatibility with your phone model and read reviews or seek recommendations to ensure the quality and reliability of the accessories.

5. Are there any tips for maintaining and cleaning mobile accessories?

Yes, there are a few tips for maintaining and cleaning mobile accessories. For cases and screen protectors, wiping them with a soft cloth and mild cleaning solution can help remove dirt and smudges. To clean headphones or earbuds, gently wipe the exterior with a damp cloth and use a small brush to remove any debris from the speaker grilles. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific cleaning recommendations and avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the accessories.

Here we Go Again!

China has created a COVID variant that is more deadly than the previous version. 20X more deadly supposedly. I suppose that means it’s only likely to kill humans 4% of the time or some such. What none of the fear mongering articles answer is does previous COVID-19 exposure and recovery, confer immunity to this particular variant.

China is apparently dealing with some respiratory disease that they claim is not covid but is widespread enough that some of their cities are still operating under covid protocols.

But that doesn’t matter!

Chinese folks are traveling the world for the Lunar New Year. 

Ya know folks… We’ve seen this movie before.

Let’s see:

Disease that causes China to enact quarantine protocol for some cities. CHECK

Election Year in the United States where one candidate is a threat to Chinese hegemony, and the other is a useful empty shell that can be commanded to dance. CHECK

Billions of Chinese travelers flying all over the world like dandelion seeds perhaps carrying the new contagion. CHECK

Bioweapons are expressly prohibited by treaty. The 1925 Geneva Protocol prohibited the use of biological weapons. A supplementary convention was adopted in 1972 that apparently expanded the rules to prevent weasel-wording your way out of having created a bio-weapon.

In other words folks, we’ve known for almost 100 years that biological weapons were a SUPER BAD Idea. Yet, the Chinese military and other militaries around the world are still fucking around with them. 

Biological weapons disseminate disease-causing organisms or toxins to harm or kill humans, animals or plants. They can be deadly and highly contagious. Diseases caused by such weapons would not confine themselves to national borders and could spread rapidly around the world. The consequences of the deliberate release of biological agents or toxins by state or non-state actors could be dramatic. In addition to the tragic loss of lives, such events could cause food shortages, environmental catastrophes, devastating economic loss, and widespread illness, fear and mistrust among the public.

That’s from the UN office for Disarmament Affairs 

I’ve highlighted in blue an interesting passage right from the top of the page.

Not that the UN has any power other than the power to insult or demean Western countries specifically the United States over past transgressions, while member countries castigating the West, are currently engaging in those same activities. Slavery, paging Slavery, Women’s rights, paging Women’s rights. Border enforcement, paging border enforcement…

I personally think the United States should end its affiliation with the United Nations. I think the UN building in New York should be reconfigured as migrant housing, and the United Nations should be asked to relocate to Geneva, or The Netherlands, or a sinking cruise ship in the middle of the Atlantic. I really don’t care, as long as these fuckers are off American Soil.

As I’ve said before, I think that if the UN wants to involve the United State Military to solve a dispute, they should pay for our services UP FRONT. Or… they can offer us useful natural resources and commit their non-combatants to farming, mining, or refining those resources. They treat our Military like mercenaries, WE SHOULD BE PAID like mercenaries.

I digress.

The United Nations, like the World Health Organization, is pretty much owned by China. Neither of these organizations are any more interested in the well being of The West, specifically the United States, than Ghingis Khan would be (or the World Economic Forum is). The sooner we understand and accept this simple fact the better off we’ll all be.

For those of you who may have failed English, here’s the simple version:

UN, WHO, WEF, China… ALL ENEMIES. They be bad for us n shit.

The highlighted text should sound very familiar. We’ve lived it over the past three to four years.

Now coincidentally, we have the WEF and the WHO and UN all talking about the “Hypothetical” Disease X [dum dum duuuummm]. Interesting that they’re talking about it and supposedly making plans to “combat” it, while China is apparently building it, and quite possibly, using their people to spread it, world wide.

It would be simple… All the Chinese folks going through security checkpoints or disease checkpoints at airports get spritzed with whatever contagion, They’re not sick when they leave, they’re not sick when they arrive at their destination.

They get sick while they’re on holiday in whatever country they’ve decided to visit contaminating the locals and voila, the desired country is decimated, or if China is really lucky “Cleansed” entirely of the vermin who disagreed with their politics.

We’ve all gotten used to security checkpoints at airports, we’d think nothing of stepping into or through a “Scanner” would we?

The CCP could even use their citizen’s destination as a method to target specific countries. It’s evil beyond belief, but as they say you’ve gotta break a few eggs to make an omelet. The same is true of global conquest. So you kill a few hundred thousand of your own people. Big deal!

If their deaths killed millions of your enemy it’s a good trade off. Those of your own who died are “Heroes of the cause”, right? The State can build monuments to their sacrifice and make annual speeches about their dedication to the cause for decades, if not centuries.

Isn’t that how mass murderers and genocidal maniacs justify their actions?

I truly hope that I’m wrong, and that China won’t use a bioweapon to interfere in our election process. (Again?) but the pattern seems just a little too close. March 11th 2020 was when the WHO declared COVID-19 a WorldwidePandemic. March 11th 1918 was the Influenza pandemic a bit over 100 years prior. I’m not going to be surprised to hear the WHO declare March 11th, 2024 a Disease X pandemic. 

When some people with rudimentary education in science (real science) say, “Wait, pandemics usually only happen every 100 years or so.”

The response will be, “MORON CLIMATE CHANGE has accelerated the cycle. Now you dumb science deniers shut up and get to the back of the fucking bus! We must pray to Sol. Perhaps the sun god will charge our bus enough to deliver you to the work camp.”

Those who question the narrative will be immediately and possibly permanently silenced, (aside from a recording of Bumbling Joe Biden explaining, “You’re being shot because corn pop uhhh well I’m a working guy from scranton, and uhh, uhhh, uhhh, white supremacy!” ) Then momentary M-16 fire.

The Media will say it’s, “For the Greater Good, and our Safety and Security.

Thus ends The Republic. With not even a whimper heard in the darkness.

As I said, I really hope I’m wrong. But the similarities in the set up are spooking even a nasty asshole like me!

Maybe AI will be a good thing.

Bear with me!

I was on the phone with some utility… I don’t remember who. Who can? Their phone prompts sounded just like Apple’s, and every other “Helpful Automated Phone system.”  None of which are helpful to me at all.

In that moment while I was grinding my teeth listening to a bunch of choices that I didn’t want, and having the system telling me, “I didn’t understand what you’re asking for, so let’s try again…”

I thought, “I don’t want or need to deal with this frustration in my life,” in addition to the frustration of whatever problem was serious enough for me to call this Servicer Company in the first place.

Yeah, I’m getting right back to acting like a Nebari. Folks this ain’t gonna be pretty. 

“Servicer, here is the account number, I don’t care what your name is, I don’t choose to give you my name, I give the commands – You execute the commands. That is the extent of our relationship.”

I gotta admit there are some fictional races from science fiction that have really stuck with me. The Nebari from FarScape, The Romulans from StarTrek, The Omecs and the Indogenes from Defiance. There are others, Predators and Aliens for example, and still more which are the stuff of nightmares. 

I think the Nebari stick with me most because they simply “KNOW” they’re right. I identify with the kind of arrogance!

Anyway, my point is that I’m not going to willingly talk to automated phone systems anymore. I don’t as a rule use a company’s website for anything except the simplest of things and these days the list of simple things is dwindling as well. It’s gotten to the point that some websites won’t show you your bill without 97 factor authentication.

If I’ve already set up multi-factor authentication, then let’s do it! Stop changing the protocol such that my stored passwords are no longer functional and my stored user ID is locked out.

Does no-one test their software anymore prior to shoving it down a captive population’s throat?

Due to the ever increasing complexity of corporate phone trees, and the ever decreasing return on my investment of time to get something done I’ve started going to the branches of the corporations in question.

I will no longer be a faceless, imaginary, easily ignored, person. Oh they’re going to have to see me, hear me, and if I’ve been working in the yard… smell me!

If they point out that they have phone and web services I’m going to show them my smart phone or watch and loudly explain that I choose to be a physical pain in their asses because satisfaction cannot be had via their corporate phone or web site. 

I want to see them CRY!

As this particular train of thought derailed in my mind, it occurred to me that AI living on the Web might meet its demise not through corrupted use but through lack of use. AI could be the death of the internet, or at least a driving force in humankind choosing to use the internet less.

For years, there have been “news” sites on the internet that read like the old tabloid publications from the grocery checkout lines. Within the last 15 years or so, even so-called “reputable” news sites have become nothing more than replicators of a single story with a paragraph or two of “Original” material serving as an “Analysis” of the original item that is being reposted.

The same thing is happening on the major broadcast news sites too if you think about it.

The only changes there are the talking heads, and a slightly different spin to appear non-homogeneous but the underlying story is exactly the same shit.

That’s why a lot of people are disconnecting their cable feeds and going back to antennas or just the internet.

Why pay for the exact same take on every single news article from 50 news channels when an antenna can pull the same garbage right off the air for free?

See I just saved you $200 a month. You’re welcome!

I’ve been noticing for years that people “Writing” are actually dictating their articles. I’ve also noticed that they’re not always proofreading their articles. (Yes, I know I’m the kettle calling the pot black. I however am not a trained journalist. I also don’t dictate my pieces, I actually type them. Although sometimes the autocorrect systems “Help” me really fuck up a word I’ve spelled incorrectly.)

Lately I’ve been noticing AI generated output. I’m looking for an example because like an idiot I didn’t save what I was reading when I noticed the Artificial-ness  (I know, the word is “artificiality”, ) of the article. I went with “Artificial-ness so I wouldn’t be called racist for using actual English words correctly. Apparently having a vocabulary these days is in fact a demonstration of white privilege, a micro aggression, and completely racist. So you may notice me giving myself a lobotomy from time to time…

I digress, AI generated articles are interesting and noticeable. I can’t really describe what the tip off is, I can only say you’ll know it when you see it.

The text is just “off”, and the conclusions of the piece are skewed in an odd way. It’s rather like reading something that’s been passed through Google Translate© several times. The construction is prefect but the meaning is ambiguous or lost entirely. 

Admittedly, there are some articles that are very subtly non human. I’ve noticed that I don’t enjoy reading them. In the case of some “scientific” articles the lead is buried completely.

For Example, there’s an archeological site in Turkey that was thought to be a “One Off” religious site not an example of a civilization. The site is called Göbekli Tepe and dates to somewhere between 10 and 12 thousand years and was intentionally buried.

10 to 12 thousand years ago, Humanity was supposed to be loosely aggregated bands of small semi-agricultural hunter gatherer villages, there was no civilization as defined by archeologists. That’s why the site is called a “one off” religious site and Archeologists breathed a sigh of relief that they didn’t have to explain the sophistication of the site as anything other than religious fervor. 

Then a second site called Karahan Tepe, using the same architecture, and also buried intentionally was discovered 10-20 miles away. Then a third site may have been discovered in the same general area, 10-20 miles from the first two sites, which has yet to be excavated but appears to have the same architectural elements.

We’re talking about a heretofore undiscovered civilization that pushes humanity’s civilization period 5000 years back in time. That’s a big deal! Archeologists are having to rethink civilization and how long humans have been capable large scale coordinated building projects and why.

Interestingly, this discovery also reopens the question of age of the Sphinx. The Egyptian authorities have steadfastly maintained that the Sphinx was built by the Egyptian civilization not an older civilization. The weathering on the sphinx enclosure and the sphinx itself indicate that the sphinx is approximately 12000 years old. Egyptian authorities have denied this age because it predates the Egyptian civilization of the Nile by around 6000 years. 

They’ve been able to maintain their denial because there was no evidence of other civilizations from 10-12 thousand years ago.

Until now.

The AI version of this information was “A site has been discovered in Southern Turkey which has a similar age and building style to Göbekli Tepe, a neolithic site of interest.”

The AI version went on to discuss the original site, and that it was thought to be a Temple Complex for an unknown religion.  The article details the original sites discovery date and makes vague reference to the detailed bass reliefs carved into the stones. 

What the AI articled failed to point out was finding a second site and potentially a third site with the same architecture and artwork isn’t what is typically associated with neolithic people. You might get some petroglyphs on cave walls but you don’t typically get freestanding stones with bass relief depictions of local wildlife, fantasy/mythology creatures,  and humans.

AI doesn’t have soul. AI isn’t going to be fascinated by discoveries. While AI might connect the RAW data, as in this case, AI will not recognize the significance. AI will ultimately produce something that is factually correct but lacks excitement. 

I think that a lot of people will stop using AI because of its lack of excitement in discovery. 

How many people do you know that call utility companies to talk to the helpful people personality phone tree?

One can hope that people with brains will be unimpressed with AI and the technology will be relegated to the pile of interesting ideas that didn’t really pan out.

Fingers crossed! Otherwise the internet is going to become really dull, boring, and extremely annoying to use. Sort of like attempting to contact your local utility company.