Weak graphic/compelling point: this is only the third renovation to the Oaklands in 130 years, and the leap forward technologically is astronomical. This is a picture of our IT guy hooking up our fiber
internet — in the coal room — which illustrates the point. The fiber wire is literally spooled on bricks stained with black coal dust. Through the coal-chute comes 22,000 amps of electricity which powers mini-split heat and AC, induction cooktops, personal instant hot water systems, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, security cameras, keyless locks, microwaves, refrigerators, and all LED lighting. It is sad that it took a fire and virtual demolition to get to this point, but these old buildings deserve, and are capable of accommodating, second and third iterations of themselves.