Gail has a bachelor of art in film/radio/tv and a bachelor of science in nursing
She has worked for years caring for all ages of people with many diagnoses in over 5 hospitals and schools around the texas hill country
Originally from north dakota, she is now based in austin and writes about sustainable energy for the website she created ‘What’s up Tesla’ and 'What's up Twitter' and maintains her nursing practice
Here’s my 30th Podcast Episode, it’s a flawless drive on FSD beta & one of the best around East/N.Austin. You may notice a large dinosaur model in the podcast. We encountered it outside of Austin’s largest gem and mineral shop!
Here’s my 30th Podcast Episode, it’s a flawless drive on FSD beta & one of the best around East/N.Austin. Video timestamps: 00:00 – intro 00:48 – speeded up city streets 01:18 – four way stop 01:29 – right onto hectic road 02:28 – merge/blend to highway 02:54 – smooth lane… pic.twitter.com/KtNnLQnp3e
Gail Alfar, author. Exclusive to Gail Alfar, 2024 – All Rights Reserved. My goal as an author and podcaster is to support Tesla (the most American vehicle manufacturer) and Elon Musk in both making life better on Earth for humans and becoming a space-fairing civilization.
FOR MEDIA USE ONLY News media is welcome to use my material in connection with a story or article. By downloading any content I create, you understand and hereby agree and represent that: (1) you are a member of the news media; (2) use of the content is in connection with a story or an article appearing in newspapers, periodicals, digital publications or television; (3) all images and rights thereto remain the property Gail Alfar.; and (4) use of the image is not for publication covers, advertising, promotion or otherwise for commercial purposes. Furthermore, use of any and all images and content appearing on this page must each include the notice “Courtesy of Gail Alfar” Use of materials copied from this website is at your own risk. You must obtain prior written consent from Gail Alfar for uses that exceed the above parameters.
Tesla FSD beta has some pretty cool visuals, and this podcast highlights this fact. As we traverse downtown Austin, we are using this amazing autonomous software and enjoying the smooth lane changes and turns. Come along for the ride!
FSD beta is a pleasure to use, even on busy streets. This 27th podcast takes us thru multiple intersections, and down Austin’s famous Seventh Street pic.twitter.com/b9EUjw5H90
Note: This Podcast has an overlaying soundtrack at the end where Jazz music plays.
Gail Alfar, author. Exclusive to What’s Up Tesla – All Rights Reserved. My goal as an author and podcaster is to support Tesla (the most American vehicle manufacturer) and Elon Musk in both making life better on Earth for humans and becoming a space-fairing civilization.
Castillo San Felipe del Morro, Calle Norzagaray, San Juan, Puerto Rico by Zetong Li | Unsplash
Prepare to be amazed as Puerto Rico sets its course toward a future brimming with energy independence and sustainable growth. In a swift and impactful move, the Energy Bureau of the Public Service Regulatory Board of Puerto Rico has unleashed an era of transformation that promises to bring positive change to every doorstep on the island.
If you’re short on time but high on enthusiasm, this article is a concise breakdown of the remarkable legislative breakthrough.
Powering the Future with Clean Energy
Picture a Puerto Rico where clean energy is no longer a distant dream, but a reality that’s taking shape before our eyes. On August 11, 2023, the Energy Bureau issued a groundbreaking Order that set in motion a series of events bound to revolutionize how we harness power. This Order put into motion a process that would require LUMA Energy, LLC and LUMA Energy ServCo, LLC (collectively referred to as “LUMA”) to provide crucial information about the Emergency Demand Response (“Emergency DR”) Program.
Accelerating Renewable Energy Adoption
Fast forward to August 23, 2023, and history was made yet again. LUMA responded to the Energy Bureau’s call by submitting a Motion that detailed the costs associated with the Emergency DR Program. The plan is nothing short of ingenious: a surge in renewable energy adoption powered by solar panels on rooftops and wind farms along the coastlines. Imagine harnessing the sun’s rays and the ocean’s breezes to fuel our lives – a dream that’s now a step closer to reality.
Ensuring Resilience and Reliability
Gone are the days of power outages casting a shadow over Puerto Rico. The program’s design ensures resilience in the face of adversity. Microgrids will step in during emergencies, guaranteeing an uninterrupted power supply when the grid falters. This means quicker recovery times and stronger communities that can weather any storm.
Fostering Economic Prosperity
Hold onto your hats – the journey towards energy independence is also an economic boon! This masterstroke is projected to generate a wave of employment opportunities, boosting local economies. Skilled professionals will be at the forefront, building, operating, and maintaining the renewable energy infrastructure that’s about to change the game.
A Commitment to Communities
But it doesn’t stop at technology and economics. This visionary legislation places communities at its core. Education takes center stage, as residents will be informed about the benefits of renewable energy, fostering a deeper understanding of the world-changing shift underway.
Unveiling the Road Ahead
What’s next? Brace yourselves for the incredible journey ahead. As the Emergency DR Program unfolds, expect to see program terms issued through the PowerAdvocate platform, agreements between LUMA and participants, customer enrollment, and even a test event. The road to a sustainable future is paved with exciting milestones!
Your Role in the Revolution
It’s time to be part of the change. Join Puerto Rico on this thrilling journey towards energy independence and environmental harmony. As this historic endeavor takes flight, it’s not just about power sources; it’s about powering our lives, our communities, and our dreams.
Stay tuned for more updates on how Puerto Rico is turning a new leaf in the realm of energy. The island is poised to become a global example of innovation, resilience, and progress – a beacon of hope in a world that’s constantly evolving.
Read RESOLUTION AND ORDER | CASE NO: NEPR-Ml-2022-0001 | LUMA August 23, 2023, Motion Filing its Emergency Demand Response Program Cost and Timeline.
Elon Musk live streaming in Palo Alto, California.
Late Friday evening on August 25th, Elon Musk drove around Palo Alto in his Model S Tesla with white seats and a kid’s car seat in the back. This was no ordinary drive, he allowed the vehicle to drive around the idyllic town with millions of viewers!
Using his iPhone and live streaming simultaneously on the X App, he explained the vehicle’s autonomy in real-time.
I was lucky enough to not only watch the broadcast live from my home in Austin, Texas, but I also got to report on it in real time as well!
Here’s what I call my “Drive Fun Summary” of Elon Musk’s amazing live stream!
DRIVE FUN SUMMARY
Since I am a writer I seized the opportunity to write about the drive while it was happening! Enjoy! It was a pleasure to watch (link to video below)!
THE HIGHLIGHTS
The near 45-minute drive began at the Tesla Engineering HQ and Elon pinned a random spot and engaged FSD beta V12. The car passed construction flawlessly. It also slowed down for a speed bump, based on what a human would do, not based on what a line of code told it to do. He mentioned the same is true for bicycles and stop signs. The car uses the neural net to decide – like a human would – to stop at a stop sign.
At a “round-about” Elon’s car waited for 2 cars, then took its turn. Elon said there is about 100 watts of inference compute (all local) on hardware 3. Elon explained that no internet connection is needed. It uses 8 cameras at 36 frames per second. The reality of the roads are based on 24 frames per second.
Elon joked, “Hello assassins if you want to get me, head to Palo Alto.” Thankfully Elon Musk stayed safe the entire livestream.
Elon said there are FSD test drivers in Japan, Europe, and all over the world.
The vehicle drove around students who were walking around the Stanford Campus. At another round-about, Elon reassured drivers there is no line of code for this, as it is trained on data.
Elon and his AI Engineer (also presenting the car) explained that Tesla’s data curation needs to be trained on excellent data, and not mediocre data. High quality data is always selected from the fleet.
When interventions occur in the fleet, it is integrated with training and then updated with the weights.
Elon invited viewers to edit his live video and speed it up.
On the drive, Elon did not have to intervene even once. He said that with traffic lights, there’s no code in V12 to say what light colors stand for. Instead, all training is done on neural nets.
For fun, Elon decided to head over to Mark Zuckerburg’s neighborhood in real-time. When he arrived it was just a bunch of homes on a street, not really Zuck’s home, which would have been surrounded with high security.
On the ride back to the Tesla Engineering HQ, here’s the main highlights:
– Ride was super SMOOTH, with Elon playing lovely Classical music
– Palo Alto reminds Elon of the perfection seen in the movie, “The Truman Show.”
– The car was very polite/conservative with Pedestrians and bicyclists, meaning it was cartious and slow around them (and so was Elon as he did not film them).
– Training is needed all around the world as the weather in California is too nice, and situations are needed with parades, people, etc.
– A successful unprotected LEFT turn onto a high-speed road was achieved.
– V12 will be ASS (meaning Smart Summon will work well)
– Intuitive Smooth speed-up in places (different than posted speed)
– Elon had lovely music playing (we would love Elon’s Playlist!)
– Tesla Engineering HQ is at the “former HP headquarters.” (an honor for Tesla). Note the Tesla HQ is Austin, Texas.
– Tesla parking lot was pretty full, even at 7 p.m. on a Friday night. How did FSD beta do, getting into the hectic parking lot? It went perfectly to the “pinned” spot!
– Pure AI driving does NOT have to have a map. It can do what a human would also do without a map.
If you would like to watch this video, you can here:
Elon Musk live stream in a Tesla on August 25, 2023.
Save with Gail's Referral. Order Tesla products with Gail's Referral Link to earn cash off your order plus exclusive referral benefits. ts.la/gail74884
Here are a few more screen shots from the drive.
When you use Autopilot in your Tesla, be sure to always supervise the vehicle.
Gail Alfar, author. Exclusive to Gail Alfar, 2024 – All Rights Reserved. My goal as an author and podcaster is to support Tesla (the most American vehicle manufacturer) and Elon Musk in both making life better on Earth for humans and becoming a space-fairing civilization.
FOR MEDIA USE ONLY News media is welcome to use my material in connection with a story or article. By downloading any content I create, you understand and hereby agree and represent that: (1) you are a member of the news media; (2) use of the content is in connection with a story or an article appearing in newspapers, periodicals, digital publications or television; (3) all images and rights thereto remain the property Gail Alfar.; and (4) use of the image is not for publication covers, advertising, promotion or otherwise for commercial purposes. Furthermore, use of any and all images and content appearing on this page must each include the notice “Courtesy of Gail Alfar” Use of materials copied from this website is at your own risk. You must obtain prior written consent from Gail Alfar for uses that exceed the above parameters.
For this episode, we are joined by a journalist who exclusively reports on building construction with 3D printing. We will visit a 3D-printed home in Austin, Texas. In a brief interview, Jarett explains how these homes are made.
FSD Beta
As with almost every podcast I do, we will drive through narrow and very challenging streets in Austin. In this case, FSD beta slows for safety as it encounters a construction site.
Enjoy the podcast.
This was a really fun podcast to record, I hope you’ll enjoy it too. FSD beta + 3D printed homes in Austin with @JarettGross XXV 🏠 pic.twitter.com/65HDGvf1si
Gail Alfar, author. Exclusive to Gail Alfar. All Rights Reserved. My goal as an author and podcaster is to support Tesla (the most American vehicle manufacturer) and Elon Musk in both making life better on Earth for humans and becoming a space-fairing civilization.
FOR MEDIA USE ONLY News media is welcome to use my material in connection with a story or article. By downloading any content I create, you understand and hereby agree and represent that: (1) you are a member of the news media; (2) use of the content is in connection with a story or an article appearing in newspapers, periodicals, digital publications or television; (3) all images and rights thereto remain the property Gail Alfar.; and (4) use of the image is not for publication covers, advertising, promotion or otherwise for commercial purposes. Furthermore, use of any and all images and content appearing on this page must each include the notice “Courtesy of Gail Alfar” Use of materials copied from this website is at your own risk. You must obtain prior written consent from Gail Alfar for uses that exceed the above parameters.
Join me for a drive in the infamous Austin heat. It is hot and windy out and we are heading to a rather dry Lake Travis. The hairpin turns would scare anybody who is driving manually. But we are not driving manually. The vehicle is running on Tesla’s amazing FSD beta software.
While safety is number 1 for Tesla, having fun is a close second! This drive is short ( only 3:37 minutes long) and very fun!
welcome to my 24th podcast where, despite 105° heat, FSD beta works perfectly on hairpin turns on one of the most difficult roads near Austin pic.twitter.com/i7LFw6oNYJ
Gail Alfar, author. Exclusive to Gail Alfar. All Rights Reserved. My goal as an author and podcaster is to support Tesla (the most American vehicle manufacturer) and Elon Musk in both making life better on Earth for humans and becoming a space-fairing civilization.
FOR MEDIA USE ONLY News media is welcome to use my material in connection with a story or article. By downloading any content I create, you understand and hereby agree and represent that: (1) you are a member of the news media; (2) use of the content is in connection with a story or an article appearing in newspapers, periodicals, digital publications or television; (3) all images and rights thereto remain the property Gail Alfar.; and (4) use of the image is not for publication covers, advertising, promotion or otherwise for commercial purposes. Furthermore, use of any and all images and content appearing on this page must each include the notice “Courtesy of Gail Alfar” Use of materials copied from this website is at your own risk. You must obtain prior written consent from Gail Alfar for uses that exceed the above parameters.
Starlink can reach more people because their satellites can be space laser enabled. This means they use ISLs (Optical Intersatellite Links). These laser links allow communication to the most remote communities on Earth without local ground stations. This opens doors for people. Some have said this may lead to the discovery of future talents similar to Elon Musk.
In all cases, data speeds are remarkable and in this article, I will share 4 examples of how Starlink’s phenomenal work is helping and healing communities.
ɪᴍᴀɢᴇ ᴄᴏᴜʀᴛᴇꜱʏ ꜱᴛᴀʀʟɪɴᴋ, ɪɴᴄ.
RURAL MEXICO
In Mexico, half of the rural population did not have internet access in 2022. Starlink is helping connect 3,300 of these communities as part of “Internet para Todos.” This translates as “Internet for All,” and means that kids growing up today in these regions will live a live very different from their elders. Opening doors to education is a big part of what Starlink makes possible.
In Honduras, students at “Rubén Martínez Rodas” school in Montaña de la Flor will have free Starlink so they can access education better. Hondutel is a nonprofit set up to install Starlink at this remote location.
Fifty schools across Rwanda in Africa are connected with Starlink’s high-speed internet serving hundreds of young students. Likewise, across Mozambique, Starlink is supporting educational opportunities in rural regions.
Students in the most remote schools in the Amazon forest can access the internet in a project with Polaris Space Program and Instituto Escola Conectada.
In remote Marbial in Haiti (population 2,500 people), Starlink is connecting students and teachers at schools, after-school centers, and health clinics. It is Marbial’s first time having any internet connection.
FARMERS
In Australia, some farmers use Starlink Roam for in-motion use to access technology for grain sowing. One creative farmer in NW Victoria straps Starlink satellite internet kits to his tractors while sowing and working their way around the 18,000-hectare farmland putting in the next years grain crop, essentially providing a Wi-Fi bubble around farm machinery.
In June 2023, Alaskans living in rural Utqiaġvik, Point Hope, Wainwright, Kotzebue, and Nome, were suddenly without internet or cellular connectivity. Their fiber cable snapped due to a severe ice scouring event under the Arctic Ocean. The amazing Starlink team has been coordinating with the State of Alaska, various local governments & Native communities to help provide connectivity.
Starlink, in the words of Elon Musk, provides “great connectivity to those who had little or nothing before. As soon as you can access the internet, you can learn about almost anything, so its absolutely essential for education. Khan Academy being a great example.”
Starlink fills in the gaps between 5G and fiber and it reaches the parts of Earth that are the hardest to reach. Starlink is a force for good in a world that is hungry for knowledge and yearning to reach for the stars!
If you liked this article, follow author Gail Alfar on X at x.com/GailAlfarATX
In this article, I’ll provide you with tips to optimize the performance, and reliability of your EV, whether you live in a hot region or elsewhere. I live in Texas where it has been over 105 °F many days in a row (over 40° C). My Tesla runs great in extreme heat!
How do I prefer to have my Tesla serviced? I use the Tesla Mobile Service feature and specifically request service when I am at work. Why then? I personally trust and know the Mobile Service technicians, they are reliable, consistent, and professional. Once you develop a trust relationship, it is gold!
Tip 1: Check and Refresh Cabin Air Filters
If you or your family members suffer from seasonal allergies, maintaining clean and fresh air inside your vehicle becomes crucial. Regularly inspect and replace the cabin air filters or HEPA filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Over time, dust, pollen, and other particles can accumulate, reducing the filter’s effectiveness. For example, Tesla recommends replacing the cabin air filter in Model Y and Model 3 every 2 years and the HEPA filter every 3 years. Be sure to consult your vehicle’s recommendations for optimal air filtration.
Tip 2: Tire Rotation, Balance, and Wheel Alignment
Proper tire maintenance is essential for optimal performance and durability, especially in hot weather. Refer to your car’s manufacturer recommendations for tire rotation intervals and follow them accordingly. Tesla, for instance, suggests rotating tires every 6,250 miles or if the tread depth difference reaches 2/32 inches or more. Additionally, ensure your wheels are balanced and aligned to maintain optimum steering and handling. Vibrations caused by unbalanced or misaligned wheels can compromise safety. Frequent tire servicing may be necessary if you engage in aggressive driving.
Tip 3: Brake Fluid Test
Image Courtesy Zach on X @blkmdl3
Regular brake fluid contamination tests are good to ensure brake safety. Perform this test every 2 years to identify any potential issues such as moisture, dirt, or contaminants that can impact brake performance. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent corrosion and potential brake failure, ensuring the continued smooth operation of your brakes.
Tip 4: Air Conditioning Service
Your EV’s air conditioning (A/C) system plays a vital role in hot weather. It helps dehumidify the cabin and enhances overall cooling performance. Follow the recommended replacement schedules for components like the A/C desiccant bag to maintain efficient A/C operation. Replace the desiccant bag as per the manufacturer’s guidelines, such as every 4 years for Tesla Model 3 and Model Y (6 years for Model 3 produced between 2017 and 2021 without a heat pump).
Bonus Tip 5: Schedule Brake Caliper Cleaning and Lubricating
Though this article primarily focuses on hot weather, it’s worth mentioning this bonus tip for cold weather regions. Harsh conditions like freezing temperatures, snow, ice, and road salt can accelerate wear and corrosion on brake calipers. To ensure optimal performance and longevity of your braking system, schedule a cleaning and lubrication of all brake calipers every 12 months or 12,500 miles.
Remember to also maintain your charging equipment. Regularly inspect the charging cables, connectors, and adapters for any signs of wear, damage, or dirt buildup. Keeping the charging port clean with a soft brush or cloth will help ensure an uninterrupted charging connection, allowing for efficient charging and optimal vehicle performance.
If you liked this article, follow and subscribe to @gailalfaratx on X. Thank you! All images used with permission from @blkmdl3
This podcast is very different from all my other episodes. I received several “strikes” on my FSD beta software from Tesla, and so I temporarily lost the use of FSD beta. This podcast details how difficult it is to drive exclusively on what I call, “human pilot.”
Human pilot is where I am using only my two eyes and my own human neural net to drive the car.
It is a bit hard to explain why this is important, but the main point has to do with lack of safety. Driving on human pilot is significantly less safe than driving using Tesla Autopilot or Tesla FSD beta. Enjoy the podcast.
welcome to my podcast, no. 23, what happens when you can’t use FSDbeta? (suspension) let’s analyze the human neural net in downtown atx together 🙂 we’ll also talk about Waymo and Cruise, from an earlier X Space today pic.twitter.com/HmJdqM9gsQ
In this episode, we’ll also cross paths with other autonomous cars (driverless) in Austin, Texas, such as “Cruise” vehicles.
Gail Alfar, author. Exclusive to Gail Alfar. All Rights Reserved. My goal as an author and podcaster is to support Tesla (the most American vehicle manufacturer) and Elon Musk in both making life better on Earth for humans and becoming a space-fairing civilization.
FOR MEDIA USE ONLY News media is welcome to use my material in connection with a story or article. By downloading any content I create, you understand and hereby agree and represent that: (1) you are a member of the news media; (2) use of the content is in connection with a story or an article appearing in newspapers, periodicals, digital publications or television; (3) all images and rights thereto remain the property Gail Alfar.; and (4) use of the image is not for publication covers, advertising, promotion or otherwise for commercial purposes. Furthermore, use of any and all images and content appearing on this page must each include the notice “Courtesy of Gail Alfar” Use of materials copied from this website is at your own risk. You must obtain prior written consent from Gail Alfar for uses that exceed the above parameters.
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