. .

The estate of Prašný Újezd boasts a rich tapestry of history, marked by a series of notable ownership transitions that reflect the evolving social and economic landscape of the region. Here is a detailed chronological overview of its ownership:

• 1115: The earliest known mention of Prašný Újezd in the founding charter of the Kladruby Monastery, donated by a figure named "Willart," likely Vilhart.
• 1655: Ownership parts of the estate are noted between the Zvíkovec domain and Hřešihlavy estate.
• 1738: Jan Kager of Štampach purchases the estate, establishing it as an independent allodial entity.
• 1757: Ownership still under Jan Kager of Štampach.
• 1788: Ownership transitions to Countess Marie Anna Allemagna, née Sternthal.
• Mid-1790s: Václav of Rummerskirch acquires the estate.
• 1797: Thadeus Andrée becomes the owner; establishes the dominical settlement of Skoupy in 1799.
• 1803: Ownership passes to Gottlieb Ackermann.
• 1804: Hermann Leitenberger acquires the estate from Ackermann.
• 1808-1810: The estate is sold to Count Franz Schaffgotsch, who expands the castle.
• 1817: Rüdiger Stillfried of Ratenic acquires and briefly exchanges the estate with the Stein family for Halži, only to reacquire it shortly after.
• Post-1817: Ownership passes to Karolina de Favras, née de Mahy, following her husband Rüdiger Stillfried's period.
• 1834: George Friedrich Schramm buys the estate for 27,000 conventional gold coins.
• 1837-1838: Josefina Skronská, née Countess Kolovrat, becomes the owner.
• 1839: Josef Lissner acquires the estate.
• June 12, 1847: The estate is bought by Vilém Srnka for 42,000 conventional gold coins.
• 1873: The Příbram family acquires Prašný Újezd for 100,000 gold coins and transfers its administration to the Liblin estate, also in their possession.

This overview captures the essence of Prašný Újezd's storied past and serves as a testament to its significance in the region's history.

Information attributed to: https://www.inventare.cz/pdf/soap-pn/soap-pn_ap0548_20106_vs-prasny-ujezd.pdf

written in conjuntion with AI.

Rediscovering the Jewish Heritage of Prašný Újezd: The Untold Story of Its Community and Castle

Welcome to a journey through time, as we unveil the forgotten stories of Prašný Újezd, a village with a rich history intertwined with its Jewish community and the enigmatic castle that stands as a silent witness to centuries past.

A Historical Overview of Prašný Újezd

The village of Prašný Újezd, with its first mentions dating back to 1115, serves as a remarkable testament to the region's storied past. Its significance, deeply rooted in the annals of history, invites exploration and reflection.

The Jewish Community of Prašný Újezd

The once-vibrant Jewish community, with its synagogue and school, was a cornerstone of Prašný Újezd. The tragic fire of 1907 that led to the synagogue's destruction marked an end of an era, leaving only memories and the Terešov Jewish cemetery as reminders of its existence.

The Enigmatic Castle of Prašný Újezd

The history of Prašný Újezd's castle, constructed between 1738 and 1741, is shrouded in mystery and speculation. Its potential connections to the Jewish community, highlighted by the documents kept within its walls, spark intrigue and further investigation.

Speculation and Significance

The castle's past, including its ownership and significance to the Jewish community, remains a topic of speculation. Its current state, abandoned and decaying, serves as a poignant reminder of the passage of time and the importance of preservation.

The Importance of Preservation and Research

The need for further research and preservation efforts is critical in uncovering the full scope of Prašný Újezd's Jewish heritage and the castle's history. Each discovery adds a piece to the puzzle, enriching our understanding of the past.

Conclusion

Our exploration of Prašný Újezd's Jewish heritage and its castle uncovers stories of community, tragedy, and the enduring legacy of history. Let us continue to delve deeper, ensuring these tales are not forgotten.

Search Terms:

• Jewish heritage Prašný Újezd
• History of Prašný Újezd Castle
• Prašný Újezd synagogue fire 1907
• Genealogy Prašný Újezd Jewish community
• Historical documentation Prašný Újezd

References and Further Reading:

• Archived Documents on Prašný Újezd
• Geni.com - Jewish Families from Prašný Újezd
• Hrady.cz - History of Prašný Újezd Castle

• 1520: Jews migrate from Prague to Rokycany district to escape the plague.
• 1623: Establishment of Jewish charitable organizations.
• 1680: Introduction of prayer rooms in Terešov, Prašné Ujezd, and Rešihlavy.
• 1816: Construction of a gravedigger's house near Terešov cemetery.
• 1821: Jews from Rešihlavy and Chřič establish separate cemeteries.
• Late 19th Century: Centralization of Jewish life in larger towns.

Based on insights from Hugo Gold's "Jewish Communities in Bohemia" (1934).

Additional information on the location of the cemetery and insights from Hugo Gold's book were kindly provided by Dr. Fred Chvátal, Chairman of TAMUS - Tachov Archives' & Museum's Society. For more information, visit http://tamus.tachov.org.

Generated in conjunction with AI

Navigating Change: Pilsen's Economic Transformation and Its Impact on Local Communities

In the heart of Europe, the Pilsen region stands at a crossroads of history and modernity, witnessing an unprecedented economic transformation. As a long-time observer and resident, I've watched multinational corporations reshape our local economy, bringing both progress and challenges. This blog post delves into the complexities of Pilsen's evolving landscape, aiming to spark conversation and illuminate the nuanced impacts on our communities.

The Pilsen Region’s Economic Shift: A Broad Perspective

The influx of multinational corporations into the Pilsen region has marked a new era of economic development. While these entities contribute significantly to employment rates, their dominance raises questions about the sustainability of small, local businesses that are the heartbeat of our community.

Observing Shadows: Transparency and Accountability in Economic Deals

The intertwining of corporate interests with local governance often occurs behind a veil of opacity. My personal observations suggest a need for greater transparency to ensure that economic growth benefits the wider community, not just a select few.

The Impact on Small Businesses and Employment

The rapid economic changes have had a tangible impact on small businesses and the local job market. The proliferation of logistics centers, while providing employment, also diverts labor and resources away from smaller enterprises, altering the fabric of our local economy.

Navigating Governance and Institutional Oversight

The role of governance in economic transformation is crucial. However, the experiences within the Pilsen region highlight concerns about who benefits from these changes. This section calls for a balanced approach to governance that considers the welfare of all community members.

Conclusion: A Call for Community Dialogue

This exploration of Pilsen's economic transformation is not an end but a beginning. I invite you, the readers, to share your insights, experiences, and suggestions. Together, we can better understand the implications of these changes and advocate for a future that honors the legacy and potential of our region.

Engage with Us: Share Your Thoughts
I encourage readers to comment below with your perspectives or share this post across social media to broaden the conversation. Your voices are essential as we navigate these transformative times.

Transforming ETF Investing: Blockchain's Role in Redefining Shareholder Voting and Market Dynamics

Introduction

In the investment landscape, Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) have become a staple for their diversified, accessible portfolios. However, a lesser-known aspect of ETFs is the centralization of shareholder voting rights, predominantly held by ETF managers. This concentration of power, especially in hands of giants like BlackRock, poses significant questions about market competition and innovation. Could blockchain technology offer a solution?

Understanding ETF Voting Rights

Traditionally, when ETFs buy company shares, the voting rights are held by the fund managers. This centralization leads to significant power imbalances, allowing major players to disproportionately influence corporate decisions and market dynamics.

Blockchain: A Game-Changer

Blockchain technology, renowned for its secure and transparent nature, offers an innovative solution. By applying blockchain to ETFs, individual investors could directly manage their voting rights. This shift towards a decentralized voting system promises to enhance transparency and empower investors in corporate governance.

Empowering Investors, Challenging Market Monopolies

A blockchain-based system could enable ETF investors to either vote on key issues or delegate their votes. Such a system would not only encourage active investor participation but also challenge the dominance of large institutions like BlackRock, fostering a healthier, more competitive market environment conducive to innovation.

Navigating the Road Ahead

Implementing this blockchain solution involves overcoming regulatory, technical, and logistical hurdles. Collaboration among financial institutions, regulators, and technology providers is crucial for aligning with financial regulations and ensuring a seamless transition.

Conclusion

Integrating blockchain technology into ETF voting mechanisms represents a significant leap towards democratizing the investment world. It promises a future where corporate governance is more inclusive, and market dynamics are defined by a broader range of voices and interests. While challenges lie ahead, the potential impact of such innovation is profound and far-reaching.

The Shifting Landscape of AI: OpenAI, Microsoft, and the Ethical Crossroads

Introduction:

The AI industry, a beacon of innovation and progress, is currently witnessing a pivotal moment that could redefine its future trajectory. The departure of Sam Altman from OpenAI, amidst growing involvement of Microsoft, has sparked intense debate and speculation about the influence of large tech corporations on the direction of AI development.

The Departure of Sam Altman:

Sam Altman, who has been at the helm of OpenAI, overseeing its rise as a key player in the AI space, has recently stepped down. This move has raised questions about the factors driving this change. Speculation abounds that Microsoft, a significant investor in OpenAI, might have influenced this decision, reflecting a broader trend of corporate interests potentially swaying the course of innovative tech companies.

OpenAI's Vision and Community Concerns:

Founded with the promise of developing AI in an open and ethical manner for the benefit of all, OpenAI has been a symbol of hope for a future where technology aligns with humanitarian values. However, the recent developments have caused unease among early supporters and contributors. They fear that the original vision of OpenAI might be diluted under the weight of corporate influence, particularly from a company like Microsoft, known for its market-driven approach.

Historical Context: Microsoft and the 'One Laptop per Child' Initiative:

Microsoft's history offers insight into its approach to emerging tech markets. The 'One Laptop per Child' initiative, aimed at providing affordable educational devices to children in developing countries, found itself indirectly competing with Microsoft when the company started distributing free computers with its software in similar markets. This incident has been cited as an example of Microsoft's strategic moves to maintain its market dominance, even in the face of open-source, community-driven projects.

The GitHub Acquisition and Open Source:

Microsoft's acquisition of GitHub, a vital platform for the open-source community, further compounds these concerns. While GitHub continues to operate as a hub for developers worldwide, its ownership by Microsoft poses a paradox, given the latter's business model that traditionally revolved around proprietary software.

Implications and Future Directions:

The departure of Sam Altman and the growing clout of Microsoft in OpenAI signal a crucial juncture in the AI industry. It calls for a reassessment of the balance between innovation, corporate interests, and ethical standards. The AI community and industry watchers are now tasked with ensuring that the march of progress in AI does not stray from the path of ethical responsibility and inclusivity.

Conclusion:

The unfolding events at OpenAI serve as a microcosm of the larger challenges facing the AI industry. As corporations with substantial resources and influence become more involved, the need for vigilance in preserving the foundational principles of innovation and ethics in AI becomes ever more critical. The story of OpenAI, Sam Altman's departure, and Microsoft's role is not just about a single company but about the direction of an entire industry at a crossroads.

• Sam Altman • OpenAI • Microsoft and AI • AI Ethics • Artificial Intelligence Trends • Tech Industry Dynamics • Corporate Influence in Technology • AI Development • OpenAI Leadership Change • Microsoft’s Tech Strategy • AI and Ethics • Future of AI • Open Source vs Proprietary Software • GitHub and Microsoft • One Laptop per Child Initiative • AI Innovation • Tech Industry News • AI Research and Development • AI Community • Technology and Society

AI, Media, and Ethics: A User's Perspective

In the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence (AI) and media, the question of who should dictate the ethics of AI use is a pressing concern. From the perspective of some users, AI is a tool, and the responsibility for its ethical use should rest with the user, not the AI developers.

One of the key issues in this debate is access to information. In regions where resources are limited or access to paid content is economically challenging, copyright laws can significantly impact the availability of news and information. Some users argue that AI could be used to bypass paywalls or other restrictions to access news content, thereby democratizing information access.

However, this raises complex ethical and legal questions. AI developers, like OpenAI, operate within a framework of laws and ethical guidelines, which include respecting the rights of content creators and publishers. Unauthorized access to paid or protected content is generally considered unethical and illegal.

The debate extends to the structure of the media industry itself. When a small number of entities control a large share of the media market, it can limit the diversity of voices and perspectives available to the public. Some users express a preference for supporting independent journalism directly, rather than supporting large media conglomerates.

Ad-blocking technologies, like those in the Brave browser, offer another example of how users can control their own media consumption experience. These technologies can enhance user experience and privacy, but they also impact ad revenue, which many content creators rely on.

The potential of AI to disrupt traditional media models is a source of concern in the industry. However, some users argue that this concern is leading to over-compliance with existing laws and regulations. They suggest that the media industry's wariness of AI's potential impact is reflected in the early compliance of AI services.

In conclusion, the intersection of AI, media, and ethics is a complex and multifaceted issue. While AI developers have a responsibility to ensure their tools are used ethically and legally, users are calling for more control over how these tools are used. Striking a balance between these perspectives is a challenge that will shape the future of AI and media.

it's worth noting that any text generated by me during our conversation is indeed produced by an AI and is provided free of charge as part of this service. If you're sharing or using this text elsewhere, it would be good practice to note that it was generated by an AI. this text was geberated in conjunction with open AI

A Call for Change: The Struggles of a Small Town in the Face of Modern Challenges

In the seven years I've lived in this town, I've witnessed a disheartening trend. The local municipality, instead of embracing innovation and progress, seems to be exhausting its resources looking for reasons not to change. This stagnation is evident in several areas, from waste management to local business development.

One of the most pressing issues is waste disposal. Despite the growing need for sustainable waste management solutions, the municipality has made no significant changes to collection or recycling. Instead, they've applied to expand the waste towards the sky, as the filled land area has reached its capacity. This short-term solution does nothing to address the root of the problem.

The use of public funds is another area of concern. I've seen a building, closed to the public for years, receive a new roof. This building, once used for municipal dance functions, seems to be of little interest to the younger generation, who are more inclined towards modern forms of entertainment. Meanwhile, taxpayer money was used for the demolition of council-owned property, all in the name of aesthetics to enhance the environment around the local castle. Both these properties could have been sold, potentially bringing in revenue for the municipality. Instead, it seems that the local council is prioritizing private interests over public needs, even going so far as to advertise developers' projects on the town's website.

The town's demographic is shifting, with a growing divide between the older population and younger families. Many of the younger generation are leaving to study in Prague, leading to a decrease in the local population. This shift presents new challenges for the municipality, which must find ways to attract and retain younger residents while also catering to the needs of the older population.

Local agriculture is another area that has been overlooked. The land surrounding the town is a valuable resource for small agricultural investments. However, the local farmers' market in Zbiroh is struggling, with potato growers having to come from as far as Moravia. The local coop, privatized after the end of communism, still maintains control over the milk chain, creating a significant barrier for new entrants. This monopoly stifles competition and innovation, preventing local growers from fully realizing their potential. An example of the challenges faced by local farmers is a cheese producer in the area who, despite owning cows, is unable to milk them due to the coop's control over the milk chain. Instead, he is forced to buy milk from the former communist coop to produce his cheeses. This situation not only increases his production costs but also limits his ability to fully utilize his own resources. Furthermore, the municipality does not seem to be taking active steps to address this issue, further hindering the growth and diversification of local agriculture.

Furthermore, the construction of five logistic centres in the vicinity has not only made it harder for local businesses to compete and monopolized the local labour market, but also disrupted the traditional culture and aesthetics of the area. These centres, mostly housing companies that bring goods from Western Europe, repackage them and send them back, contributing little to the local economy while absorbing much of the available workforce and altering the character of the town.

Another pressing issue is housing. In the Czech Republic, only 1 percent of housing stock is subsidized by the state, a dramatic decrease considering that the state controlled all property in 1990. In contrast, in Ireland, 20 percent of the housing stock is subsidized, according to data from the OECD Affordable Housing Database. In Zbiroh, the municipality does own some housing, but these properties can be passed onto the children of inhabitants, rather than being allocated to locals living in marginalized situations. This leaves the most marginalized people dependent on the commercial market for housing, often placing a safe and secure home out of their reach. This is a stark reminder of the need for a more equitable housing policy that ensures everyone, regardless of their situation, has access to affordable housing.

Despite these issues, attempts to engage with the local government have been met with resistance. A recent attempt to discuss waste management with themayor's office was refused, a clear sign of the lack of openness to dialogue and change.

This town, like many others, faces significant challenges. But with these challenges come opportunities for innovation and progress. It's time for the municipality to stop looking for reasons not to change and start exploring the possibilities for a sustainable, prosperous future.

written with chat GPT

What is Bing's Image Creator? - Article created with Chat GPT

The Paradigm Shift: Unleashing Creativity with Bing's Image Creator

The dawn of AI-driven innovation has introduced a transformative tool in the field of content generation: Bing's Image Creator.

Notably, images created can be leveraged for any lawful, personal, non-commercial use, provided users adhere to the agreement, the Microsoft Services Agreement, and Microsoft's Content Policy. However, it should be noted that the term "non-commercial" is not clearly defined under the law, which can lead to ambiguity and potential limitations in how creators can utilize their work.

In using the service, users accord Microsoft the license to use the images and associated content in connection with its business operations. This encompasses rights such as copying, distributing, public display, performing, reproducing, editing, translating, and reformatting the content. Furthermore, Microsoft reserves the right to sublicense these rights to any service supplier. It's important to note that under the current agreement, Microsoft is under no obligation to attribute the user for the created content.

As we tap into this formidable technology, inevitable questions about image rights and usage guidelines arise. What stance does Bing adopt on this matter? Bing's Terms of Service affirm that users retain ownership of the images and any other content they generate. This is a revolutionary change, underscoring user rights and control.

Grasping these nuances is fundamental to effectively steering the terrain of AI-powered creativity and understanding the balance of rights between creators and platforms.

A Vision for the Future of Municipal Politics: AI-Powered Liquid Democracy, Liquidity Pools, Sustainable Infrastructure, and AI Oracles

Exploring the potential of blockchain, AI, and liquid democracy to revolutionize local governance, energy management, and transparency

Note: This article was written with the assistance of an AI language model.

1. Citizen-run Nodes and Sustainable Infrastructure

To facilitate a decentralized governance system, municipalities and their citizens can run nodes on a blockchain network. This not only ensures the security and stability of the system but also promotes a sense of shared ownership and responsibility. Furthermore, incorporating sustainable infrastructure like municipal solar panels and energy storage systems can create a more environmentally conscious community.

2. Token-based Energy Management

A token-based system can be implemented to regulate the distribution and consumption of energy generated by municipal solar panels. This approach encourages responsible energy use and allows for better management of energy resources, reducing the reliance on expensive battery systems.

3. Zinc Bromine Batteries for Municipal Energy Storage

Larger and more ecologically sound energy storage options, such as zinc bromine batteries invented at Sydney University, can be employed to store municipal energy. These batteries offer an alternative to traditional lithium-ion batteries, with longer lifespans and lower environmental impact. Integrating this technology with the token-based energy management system further promotes sustainable energy practices.

4. AI Oracles for Energy Monitoring and Transparency

AI can be utilized as oracles to monitor nodes for energy use within the municipal network. Acting as trusted data sources, these AI oracles can provide real-time information on energy consumption, generation, and distribution. The integration of AI oracles with the token-based energy management system ensures transparency and enhances the overall efficiency of energy resource allocation.

5. Participation: Inclusive Decision-making

To build a truly inclusive political system, all citizens within a municipality should be allowed to join liquidity pools. This could be done through registration on a digital platform or other means, enabling a more participatory decision-making process. Citizens can vote on various proposals regarding the administration of funds within the pools, enhancing transparency and accountability.

6. Smart Contracts for Automated Governance

Utilizing smart contracts on the blockchain can automate various aspects of governance, such as the allocation of funds and execution of decisions based on voting outcomes. This automation can reduce bureaucratic delays and improve the efficiency of municipal operations.

7. Gamification and Incentive Mechanisms

To encourage active participation in the liquid democracy system, gamification elements and incentive mechanisms can be introduced. For instance, citizens who regularly participate in voting or contribute to discussions could be rewarded with tokens, which could be redeemed for local services or discounts.

8. Decentralized Identity Management

Implementing a decentralized identity management system can help protect the privacy of citizens and enhance the security of the voting process. This system could utilize cryptographic techniques to verify a user's identity without revealing personal information, ensuring both privacy and trust in the system.

9. Citizen Feedback and Rating Systems

Introducing a feedback and rating system for municipal projects and services can provide valuable insights for decision-makers. This system would allow citizens to rate their satisfaction with various initiatives, helping local governments to prioritize projects and improve services based on real-time feedback.

10. Integration with IoT Devices

Connecting the liquid democracy platform with Internet of Things (IoT) devices could enable data-driven decision-making. For example, IoT devices could monitor air quality, traffic patterns, or energy consumption, providing actionable data for citizens and local governments to make informed decisions regarding infrastructure and resource allocation.

11. Virtual Town Halls and Community Forums

Leveraging technology to create virtual town halls and community forums can facilitate more accessible and inclusive discussions among citizens. These platforms could host live-streamed events, Q&A sessions with local officials, and community polls, fostering greater civic engagement and collaboration.