The King is Dead. Long Live Our New King

Getting the old Snipping Tool back

Why you hate the new one

What you can do about it

Can you launch in a (different) way that adds the border (so that you can keep the old way also)?

By the grace of God, someone has decided to make the old one available. Thank you Andrew3583.

Another user says "Legacy snipping tool. This is far superior to the modern one and also is useful if you do the classic taskbar modification which breaks the newer snipping tool."

Given that you'll be storing this file in a custom (I recommend, why mess with *the* Windows folder?) you can use chatGPT to give you an AutoHotKey shortcut to use to launch it.

Problems with the Windows 11 version

In rectangle-capture-mode, you can't drag across monitor boundaries. Thank you M$. Why do they do this to their own fans?

By default, it saves everything you capture to the Screenshots folder. Good and bad. You decide.

Your options

Use SHIFT+PrtScn : This will capture the entire screen (all monitors) to clipboard. You can then launch Paint with a shortcut and paste and grab your rectangle there. Note that WIN+PrtScn will copy to clipboard AND save to Shortcuts folder.

Use the old Snipping Tool

Can you add the border "on demand"?

Here’s the catch:

How Snipping Tool handles “border”

• That border option is a global preference stored in the app’s settings (Registry/AppData).

• There is no exposed command-line switch or URI parameter (like ms-screenclip:) to force “border on” vs “border off” for a given capture.

• So, if you enable “Add border,” every capture will have it until you toggle it off again.

So? You can set up two hacky shortcuts that do the dirty work each time, or, given you want the ability to capture WITHOUT a border and WITH a border, use the Old Snipping Tool for without and the new one for with 😊

How Fast Can You Become an EMT - Emergency Medical Tech?

Guess what Bob Harper

Bob Harper

Celebrity fitness trainer from The Biggest Loser; former EMT.

, Steve Buscemi

Steve Buscemi

Actor and former firefighter; trained as an EMT before his acting career.

, Gene Simmons

Gene Simmons

KISS bassist/singer; reportedly trained as an EMT before his music career.

, Nikki Sixx

Nikki Sixx

Mötley Crüe bassist; later became a certified EMT to help others.

, Bonnie Hunt

Bonnie Hunt

Actress and former oncology nurse; EMT-certified during her medical work.

and Ice-T

Ice-T

Rapper/actor; completed EMT training in his youth before focusing on music.

have in common? Yup, they all completed EMT training.

The “fast track” to becoming an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) usually means completing the minimum training and certification requirements in the shortest possible time. Here’s how it typically works in the U.S.:

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1. Meet the Basic Requirements

• Be at least 18 years old (some states allow EMT training at 16–17 with parental consent).
• Have a high school diploma or GED (not always required but strongly preferred).
• Hold a valid CPR/BLS (Basic Life Support) certification before or during the EMT course.

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2. Complete EMT Training

• Duration: Full-time “accelerated” programs can be completed in 2–4 weeks (classes every day, often long hours). Standard part-time programs take 3–6 months.
• Content: Classroom + hands-on labs + ride-alongs/clinical rotations (ambulance or ER).
• Where: Community colleges, technical schools, Red Cross, fire academies, or private EMS training centers.

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3. Pass the NREMT Exam

• The National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) exam is required in most states.
• It has two parts:
• Cognitive test (computer-based, adaptive).
• Psychomotor test (skills exam, usually arranged through your course provider).

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4. Apply for State Licensure

• Once you pass the NREMT exam, you apply to your state EMS office for an EMT license.
• Some states add background checks, immunization records, or fingerprinting.

---

5. Get Hired

• EMTs are employed by ambulance companies, fire departments, hospitals, and event services.
• Some students get conditional job offers during training if demand is high locally.

---

✅ Fastest Possible Timeline:

• 2–4 weeks (accelerated course) + ~1–2 weeks for testing and paperwork → you can be working in about 1–2 months if everything is lined up.

 For those pressed for time:

Psychomotor test? What's that?

The psychomotor test is the hands-on portion of the EMT certification process. It’s designed to make sure you can actually perform the skills needed in real emergencies, not just know the theory.

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🔑 What It Covers

The National Registry of EMTs (NREMT) psychomotor exam usually includes several skill stations, where you demonstrate procedures in front of an evaluator. Common stations include:

1. Patient Assessment / Management
• Trauma patient: Checking scene safety, airway, breathing, circulation, disability, exposure.
• Medical patient: Gathering history, vital signs, making transport decision.
2. Airway, Oxygen & Ventilation
• Bag-valve-mask ventilation.
• Oxygen administration.
• Suctioning techniques.
3. Cardiac & Circulatory Emergencies
• CPR and AED use.
• Managing shock.
4. Bleeding Control & Shock Management
• Direct pressure, tourniquet application, wound packing.
5. Immobilization Skills
• Spinal immobilization (seated and supine).
• Long board or KED (Kendrick Extrication Device).
• Splinting long bone, joint, and traction splinting.

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⏱️ Format & Scoring

• Typically 6–7 skill stations (the exact number varies by state/region).
• You get 1–2 attempts per skill.
• Each skill has a checklist of critical steps—missing one critical item can mean failure of that station.
• You need to pass all required stations (sometimes a “random station” is included).

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🎯 Tips for Passing

• Practice until automatic: Muscle memory is key.
• Verbalize steps: Say out loud what you’re doing (“BSI, scene safe, checking responsiveness”) so the evaluator knows you’re thinking about it.
• Don’t skip the basics: Even forgetting gloves or failing to check scene safety can cause failure.
• Stay calm and systematic: The evaluators want to see you can perform under pressure.

 

Your Fast Track to Becoming a Financial Planner

Depends who you ask: Google Vs ..

chatGPT:

If you're looking to fast-track your path to becoming a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), here’s a clear breakdown to get you there as efficiently as possible:

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Standard CFP® Path vs. Accelerated Path

Standard Path (Typical Route)

1. Complete a CFP Board‐registered education program (usually 9 months–2 years).
2. Pass the CFP® exam.
3. Fulfill the experience requirement:
• 6,000 hours of professional experience OR
• 4,000 hours of supervised apprenticeship experience.CFP Board+12CFP Board+12Kaplan Financial+12CFP Board+1
4. Earn (or already have) a bachelor's degree (can be completed within 5 years after passing the exam).CFP Board+2Kaplan Financial+2
5. Meet ethics requirements, including disclosure and background check.dalton-education.com+15CFP Board+15Kaplan Financial+15

Total Time: Typically 18–24 months, though this excludes the actual work experience or apprenticeship time.SmartAssetInvestopedia

Accelerated Path (Fast Track Route)

If you already hold one of the qualifying credentials, you may skip most of the coursework and qualify for a streamlined path:

Qualifying Credentials:

• CPA (Certified Public Accountant)
• CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst)
• ChFC (Chartered Financial Consultant)
• CLU (Chartered Life Underwriter)
• Licensed attorney
• Doctoral degree (e.g., Ph.D. in finance, business administration, economics)
• CFP® certification from a non-U.S. FPSB affiliateCFP Board+15CFP Board+15Bostonifi+15Kaplan Financial

Steps:

1. Submit your credential and official transcripts.
2. Complete the Capstone course or the Capstone Alternative (the latter if you've already met the experience requirement).CFP Board+3CFP Board+3Kaplan Financial+3
3. Prepare for and pass the CFP® exam.
4. Fulfill the experience requirement (standard or apprenticeship pathway).
5. Meet ethics requirements (sign declaration, pass background check).CFP BoardBostonifi+5CFP Board+5CFP Board+5Wikipedia+3Kaplan Financial+3CFP Board+3

Timeframe:

• Capstone course: 2 to 6 weeks
• Exam preparation: 2 to 6 months
• If experience requirement is already met (or partly met), you could complete everything in as little as 4 months.Bostonifi

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Summary Table

Path	Key Advantage	Approximate Time to Certification*
Standard Path	Full coursework + standard process	18–24 months (excluding experience)
Accelerated Path	Skip coursework if qualified	As little as 4 months if experience met

Did you know? Only about one-third of financial planners in the U.S. actually hold the CFP® certification — even though it’s considered the gold standard in the profession. Many people who call themselves “financial planners” may only have a securities license, insurance license, or other limited credentials.

Google:

A fast track to becoming a financial planner, particularly a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), involves leveraging existing credentials or choosing an accelerated education program. The time it takes is based on your starting point, but specialized programs can significantly shorten the initial education and exam preparation phases. 

Accelerated CFP® certification pathway

The most direct "fast track" is the CFP Board's Accelerated Path, which allows professionals with existing credentials to bypass most of the required coursework. 

• Qualifying credentials: You must hold one of the following to use this path:
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
• Licensed attorney
• Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®)
• Ph.D. in financial planning, finance, business, or economics
• Requirements: Even with accelerated eligibility, you must still complete these steps:
• Complete a capstone course.
• Pass the CFP® exam.
• Complete the required professional experience hours.
• Hold a bachelor's degree or higher.
• Complete the ethics certification. 

Quickest path for newcomers

If you do not have prior professional credentials, the fastest route involves an accelerated, CFP Board-registered education program, which can help you complete your coursework in under a year. 

Your step-by-step fast track:

1. Obtain a bachelor's degree. You must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited university in any discipline to become a CFP®, though you have up to five years after passing the exam to complete this. A degree in a related field like finance or business is helpful, but not required.
2. Enroll in an accelerated CFP® education program. These programs, offered by institutions like the Boston Institute of Finance and Brett Danko, compress the required coursework into a shortened timeline, sometimes under a year.
3. Pass the licensing exams. While studying, you can also prepare for and pass the required licenses for selling financial products. The specific exams you need, such as the Series 65, depend on your role and state regulations.
4. Find a financial planning firm or development program. Join a firm with a structured training program that supports new advisors. Large firms like J.P. Morgan Chase and Charles Schwab offer development tracks that provide training, client experience, and support for obtaining licenses and certifications.
5. Pass the CFP® exam. After completing your coursework, pass the comprehensive, six-hour CFP® exam. Prep courses are widely available and highly recommended to pass on your first attempt.
6. Complete the experience requirement. The CFP Board requires 6,000 hours of professional experience in financial planning or 4,000 hours in an approved apprenticeship role. Your work in a development program or at a firm will count toward this requirement.
7. Fulfill the ethics requirement. The final step is to sign the ethics declaration and undergo a background check. You must agree to adhere to the CFP Board's Code of Ethics and Standards of Conduct. 

Comparison of accelerated career paths

Path	Best for	Typical Timeline	Education	Licenses & Experience
Traditional Career Changer	Those with no finance background seeking a career change	1.5–2.5 years	Accelerated CFP® education program (12–18 months) and bachelor's degree.	Pass CFP® exam and gain 4,000–6,000 hours of experience.
Accelerated Certification	Current professionals with eligible credentials	12–18 months	Skip most CFP® coursework with a prior CPA, CFA, or Ph.D.; complete capstone.	Pass CFP® exam and gain 4,000–6,000 hours of experience.
Corporate Development Program	Recent graduates looking for structured training	2–3 years	Firm provides training for industry licensing and the CFP® exam.	Obtain licenses (e.g., Series 7, 66) and gain on-the-job experience with client interaction.

 

VIAIM Makes Transcribing Excerpts of Your Audiobook Easier - Supposedly

Don't quote me. I'm yet to prove the pudding.

If you're looking for earbuds that let you simply press start to record and later stop, with an automatic transcript of the audiobook segment—that workflow is very much possible with today's AI-powered earbuds. Here are some strong contenders that match your need:

On‑earbuds recording & live transcription (one‑click)

viaim RecDot AI Earbuds

$217.55

maxstrata.com + others

★★

5.0

Compact AI recorder with app‑based transcription

viaim Nano+ AI Voice Recorder Earbuds-AI Meeting Assistant + Transcription, Flash Record, To-Do Lists&Summaries with ChatGPT

$149.00

MaxStrata

ChatGPT chooses products independently. Learn more

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Top Picks for Your Use Case

viaim RecDot AI Earbuds

• Let you hit a physical button on the case to start recording—even if the earbuds are not in your ears—and later press stop to end it. Amazon+9TechRadar+9Ausounds+9

• Records audio from various sources: in-ear listening, nearby environment, phone calls, and even audio from your audiobook player. TechRadar+1

• Automatically generates a transcript, summaries, and actionable to‑do items from the recording. TechRadar+1

• Excellent sound quality, solid battery life (~9 hours per earbud / 36 hours with case), and convenient seamless workflow—record, listen, transcribe. Wallpaper*+15TechRadar+15Tom's Guide+15

Why it fits your model: You can begin recording your audiobook segment with a single button tap, let it run, then stop and grab the transcript—all integrated into the device.

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viaim Nano+ AI Voice Recorder Earbuds-AI Meeting Assistant + Transcription, Flash Record, To-Do Lists&Summaries with ChatGPT

• A more compact option that also captures audio (via earbuds and app recording) and transcribes it via the companion app. The VergeTechRadar

• Supports transcription, summaries, and to-do lists—powered by ChatGPT—ideal for meeting notes, interviews, or audiobook segments. TechRadar+1

Why consider it: If you prefer app-based control and a sleeker form factor, the Nano + gives you recording and transcription with less bulk.

---

Recommendation Summary Table

Your Need	Recommended Option	Why It Suits Your Workflow
One‑tap start/stop recording + transcript	viaim RecDot	Integrated button, reliable transcription, seamless process
Compact device, app control	viaim Nano +	Sleek format, ChatGPT-powered transcription via app

---

Other Notes

• NoteBuds One promise voice-to-text and call recording, but lack clear details on audiobook or app integration for manual recording. Ausounds

• Most translation earbuds (Timekettle, etc.) focus on real-time language conversion—not exactly transcription of playback content.

• Devices like Plaud Note Pro are standalone voice recorders with transcription—not earbuds. Tom's Guide+8The Verge+8Wallpaper*+8

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Final Thought

If your ideal workflow is as simple as:

1. Open the app or case

2. Press start

3. Listen to your audiobook segment

4. Press stop

5. Get an automatically generated transcript

...then the viaim RecDot AI Earbuds are your best match. If you're looking for a lighter, more app-centric solution, check out the viaim Nano + AI Earbuds.

The Israeli Guide to Personal Security

Israeli intelligence and military training is based on principles of situational awareness, de-escalation, and tactical self-defense. These same principles are taught in civilian contexts by security firms and through the Israeli self-defense system, Krav Maga. 

The core principle: Awareness

Rather than focusing on a long list of "dos and don'ts," the core of Israeli-derived security is cultivating constant awareness to assess threats and prevent an incident before it happens. 

Maintain situational awareness

• Be mindful of your surroundings. Do not be distracted by your phone or other devices.
• While walking, be aware of people and cars around you. Notice if anyone appears to be following you or if a vehicle is driving erratically.
• When using public transportation, keep track of your belongings and report suspicious behavior.
• Use ATMs during the day and in well-lit, populated areas.
• Avoid large public demonstrations or protests, as these can quickly turn violent. 

Cultivate a "low profile"

• Avoid looking like an obvious tourist or someone with wealth to steal. Leave expensive jewelry, watches, or other valuables at home.
• Carry your wallet, phone, and other belongings in an inconspicuous bag. Avoid flashy bags or backpacks that might attract attention.
• Dress to blend in with your surroundings. Buy local, common items instead of standing out.
• Avoid discussing your travel plans or personal information with strangers or in public. 

Managing potential threats

Pre-planning and evasion

• Before leaving your home or hotel, plan your route and know where you are going. Have alternatives prepared, especially in high-risk areas.
• If you find yourself in a dangerous area, leave immediately.
• Trust your instincts. If a situation feels unsafe, get out of it.
• In a situation of civil unrest or military action, have an exit plan and follow local authorities' instructions. 

Concealment and deception

While typically used in intelligence operations, the principle of obscuring your identity can apply to personal safety.

• Change your appearance: Altering your clothing or adding/removing a hat or glasses can be enough to evade a potential observer on the street.
• Adapt your behavior: Change your manner of walking or your general demeanor to avoid drawing attention. 

Last resort: Self-defense

The Israeli self-defense system, Krav Maga, is rooted in the principle of maximum efficiency in minimal time. It is a system for real-world scenarios, not for sport. 

Krav Maga principles

• Intercept the attack: Block or divert an incoming strike. Instead of opposing an aggressor's strength, you use their own momentum against them.
• Attack vulnerable areas: Aim for soft spots and pressure points on your attacker's body.
• Neutralize the threat: Use quick and decisive moves to create distance and ensure your attacker is no longer a threat.
• Use available objects as weapons: Items like pens, keys, or fire extinguishers can be used to defend yourself.
• Close the distance: If an attacker gets too close, use your body to shut down their ability to strike effectively. 

Civilian application

While trained operatives have advanced skills, civilian Krav Maga training focuses on the simple, practical applications to survive a street encounter. Learning basic self-defense moves, CPR, and first aid is also recommended. 

And from the MIT/Israel alliance :

Awareness

Be alert to the fact that, even when you take precautions, residual risks exist. Make security awareness a habit by incorporation the following steps in your daily routine:

• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Before leaving your housing, decide on the route you will take.  In certain locations it may be necessary to review several safe routing options.
• When using public transportation, be aware of your personal belongings.
• Always look out for strangers waiting by your house and office, strangers and / or cars following you as well as other unusual incidents.
• Do not use ATMs at night, even when it seems no one is around.
• Avoid any situations where you may become isolated and at risk. Use local knowledge and guidance for high-risk locations and activities. Use such advice in conjunction with your own independent assessment

Low Profile

• Criminals normally target an individual because that person has come to their attention for some reason. It is fundamental that individuals should attract as little attention to themselves as possible. These are some simple rules:
• Do not walk about distracted by your personal electronic devices.
• Personal equipment such as laptops, cameras and telephones should be carried in bags/backpacks and not exposed to others.
• Avoid accessories that can identify you as student traveler from another country such as branded backpacks.  Purchase locally available and commonly used items to better blend in.  Don’t carry anything you cannot replace or should have fully backed up in order to recover any lost data.
• Avoid overt signs of wealth, such as expensive watches, jewelry, iPhones, tablets, etc.
• Don’t carry too much cash.
• Do not discuss details of your work or itinerary with individuals not known to you.  Do not discuss them publically.
• Ensure, as far as possible, that personal information is properly safeguarded

Communication

In an event of an incident, your safety may depend upon how effectively you are able to maintain communications with your support elements. Make sure you:

• Always test your cell phone; keep it fully charged, and consider carrying an extra charger with you.
• Carry a hard copy of your emergency contact details.

Fifty Shades of Greed

Pancakeswap : Recipe behind the Trump family's crypto riches (WSJ)

How Crypto Has Earned the Trump Family Billions (WSJ)

Reported examples of alleged greed by the Trump family often cite the blurring of lines between their private business interests and public service, creating potential or actual conflicts of interest. The following points draw from investigative reports, court documents, and news coverage of these events. 

Alleged financial fraud

Civil fraud verdict: In a 2024 civil fraud case in New York, a judge found Donald Trump, his sons Donald Jr. and Eric, and the Trump Organization liable for fraudulently inflating asset values for years to secure better loans and insurance deals.

Misleading valuations: During the trial, the court cited examples of intentional misrepresentation, such as grossly overstating the size and value of Trump's penthouse in Trump Tower. The fraudulent conduct led to a judgment of over $350 million plus interest against the Trumps and their company, which an appellate court later reduced.

Tax avoidance schemes: A 2018 New York Times investigation detailed how the family allegedly engaged in fraudulent schemes to evade federal taxes for many years. This reportedly included using a shell company to funnel cash gifts from Fred Trump to his children while avoiding estate taxes.

Criminal tax fraud conviction: In 2022, the Trump Organization was convicted of 17 criminal charges, including tax fraud. The case involved a long-running scheme where executives received "off-the-books" compensation and benefits without paying taxes. 

Conflicts of interest and using public office for private gain

Leveraging the presidency for business: Throughout his first term, and following his 2024 election, Donald Trump has been criticized for not divesting from his business empire through a blind trust. He frequently visited and promoted his own hotels, golf clubs, and resorts while president. This drew foreign officials and special interest groups to his properties, with critics alleging they spent lavishly to curry favor with the administration.

Profiting from foreign governments: A 2024 House Oversight Committee report detailed more than $7.8 million in payments from foreign governments to Trump-owned businesses during his first presidency. The report noted that foreign entities often frequented his Washington, D.C., hotel at "sensitive times for those countries' relations with the United States".

Taxpayer costs: Critics have pointed out that taxpayers bore millions of dollars in costs for Trump's travel and security, much of which involved shuttling him to properties he personally owned and profited from. This includes expenses incurred by the Secret Service at Trump's properties, even when he was not present.

Nepotism and insider access: The appointment of Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner to White House roles raised concerns about nepotism. In addition to their unpaid government service, their business dealings were closely scrutinized for potential conflicts of interest and profiting from access to power. 

Leveraging the Trump name for questionable products

Cryptocurrency ventures: The Trump family has ventured into the cryptocurrency space. Ethics watchdogs have raised alarms over the launch of Trump-linked digital currency products ($TRUMP and $MELANIA memecoins) and a financial company named World Liberty Financial during his public service. Critics argue this allows industry players and foreign actors to influence Trump by enriching him.

Failed business ventures: In addition to numerous legal and ethical issues, the Trump family's business history is marked by a series of failed ventures that critics claim capitalized on the Trump name for financial gain. These include Trump Steaks, Trump University, Trump Vodka, and Trump Shuttle.