Latest news with #Kling
Yahoo
a day ago
- Business
- Yahoo
As Boise area grapples with change, more homes get OK for busy transit corridor
There's no simple solution to the problems prompted by an ever-growing Treasure Valley. Increasing traffic, concerns over water rights or loss of agricultural land often dominate city council or planning-and-zoning commission discussions across Southwest Idaho. It was no different Monday, when the Nampa City Council grappled with and narrowly approved a nearly 1,500-home development on the northeastern edge of the city. Nampa Mayor Debbie Kling broke a tie when the City Council voted 4-3 to approve the development from San Diego-based Murphy Development Co. The development pays tribute to the region's farming history, though she — and other members of the council — struggled with ever-shrinking farmland. Kling said she didn't want to see the 78 acres of farmland at 17672 N. Can Ada Road, along the busy Ustick Road corridor, disappear or the area to keep growing. She said watching farmland be razed can put a pit in her stomach. But she said growth was inevitable, and Murphy had a right to develop the land. 'This is a good plan, it's a good development,' Kling said. 'When it's built out, I think that we're going to be really proud of it in our community.' The area has long been planned for development. The site is wedged between two Nampa special planning areas and Meridian's Fields District Plan Area, and is just over 1½ miles west of the under-construction Highway 16. In its place on the southeast corner of the Can Ada and Ustick intersection, Murphy Development would build 32 three-story and 17 four-story apartment buildings, several clubhouses, 10,000 square feet of market and retail space, an event area and children's play space. The amenity areas would fill pockets of open spaces between the building clusters, according to Renée Strand, the owner, principal and managing director of Holst Architecture in Portland. Most notably, the development would be centered around a 3-acre farm that could include U-pick flowers, seasonal crops and curated events, according to Strand. This could include pumpkins, hot cider or a Christmas tree lot, Strand said during a public hearing on the project in March. 'The heart of this neighborhood is really this 3-acre farm area,' she said at Monday's council meeting. The team, she said, is also trying to figure out how the farm could function in the off-season with cover crops to make it a year-round attraction. Plans call for a perimeter walking-and-biking trail that loops into a network of pedestrian paths. It would also include a tree orchard between the Ustick and the main entrance of the subdivision. The estimated $36 million development would likely take about 10 years to finish, according to Mike Arduino, a partner at Murphy Development. The plan sailed through the city's Planning and Zoning Commission in March with glowing support and no public testimony in opposition. But the City Council struggled. According to a March staff report, the development could add nearly 3,000 residents to the area — a behemoth amount for an area that a few decades ago was far from the heart of Nampa. That prospect discouraged several nearby neighbors, who spoke against the plans Monday. Neils Tidwell, who lives next to the development, said at least half of the property was a part of his family farm for over 80 years. Tidwell said he's watched the landscape change, and that nothing he could say could stop it. 'This is all going to turn into residential,' he said. 'Everything around us. It's already happening, and it's heartbreaking to me.' Katie Hassard, a nearby resident who has lived on a farm that's been in her family for around 50 years, said homes are filling the land around her and causing more congestion. She said though the Murphy Development project 'looks beautiful' with the 3-acre farm, she couldn't imagine the impact it would have on the area. 'They are paying homage to the culture of farming while wiping it out,' she said. 'Please remember us — that we are also important members of a good and healthy community that started here and want to continue here.' Kling, before her tie-breaking vote, said that the area has long been in the sights of development with Highway 16 coming through and a planned expansion of the Ustick Road corridor. 'When you punch the new road in, growth is going to come,' she said. Most of the concerns from City Council members who voted no were in line with residents' comments that the development was too dense and took away farmland, and that the city wasn't ready for the growth barreling toward it. 'The analogy 'if we're not growing, we're dying' is a hard one for me to stomach,' said Council Member Sebastian Griffin, who was undecided going into the vote but ultimately voted against it. 'If we're not growing, we're dying or we cut what we have and try to maintain for the interim until we can be better prepared for the amount of growth that we're going to have.' Council Member Victor Rodriguez, who voted no in part because of disappearing farmland and strained emergency services, put it bluntly: 'I cannot approve this based on the density.' Council Member Dale Reynolds, who voted yes, said that building up with higher density, rather than out, is exactly how the city could best preserve farmland. Plus, he said, the development will add to the city's tax base, helping to provide services. 'Going four stories to me is smart, because we save our farm ground by doing that,' Reynolds said. 'The people are coming here whether we want them to come here or not… This is smart growth.' Harris Ranch could soon add businesses, shopping & food carts. What's the plan? A historic Boise home could be demolished over safety concerns. What happened? For a snapshot of changing Treasure Valley, visit this Boise-area city Want to buy a unique Idaho property? You could shoot your shot with a gun range
Geeky Gadgets
2 days ago
- Business
- Geeky Gadgets
Budget-Friendly AI Video Generation : How Kling 2.1 Stacks Up Against the Best
What if creating stunning, AI-generated videos was no longer a luxury reserved for big-budget studios? With the release of Kling 2.1 and its premium counterpart, Kling 2.1 Master, the landscape of AI video generation is shifting dramatically. Promising a mix of cost-efficiency and high-quality output, these models aim to challenge industry heavyweights like Google V3 and Runway Gen 4. But can they truly deliver on their bold claims, or do they fall short in critical areas like motion fluidity and scene coherence? This breakdown dives into the performance of Kling's newest offerings, exploring whether they live up to the hype—or if they're just another overhyped tool in a crowded market. Cyber Jungle uncovers how these models stack up against competitors in terms of prompt understanding, rendering quality, and affordability. From the budget-friendly Kling 2.1 to the feature-rich Kling 2.1 Master, each model offers unique strengths and trade-offs that cater to different creative needs. Whether you're a hobbyist seeking accessible tools or a professional demanding precision, this performance review will help you navigate the evolving world of AI video generation. As we peel back the layers, you might just discover how these tools could redefine your creative process—or where they still leave room for improvement. Kling AI Video Models Overview Key Features of Kling AI Models Kling AI's new models are designed to cater to a wide range of users, from hobbyists to professionals, by offering distinct features tailored to different needs: Kling 2.1: This model is ideal for budget-conscious creators, generating 1080p videos at a lower cost. While it provides decent quality, it occasionally struggles with maintaining coherence in more complex scenes, such as those involving intricate movements or multiple subjects. This model is ideal for budget-conscious creators, generating 1080p videos at a lower cost. While it provides decent quality, it occasionally struggles with maintaining in more complex scenes, such as those involving intricate movements or multiple subjects. Kling 2.1 Master: A premium option that excels in prompt understanding and natural motion fluidity, making it suitable for high-quality projects. However, this model comes at a higher cost of 100 credits per video, reflecting its advanced capabilities. These models aim to strike a balance between affordability and quality, making sure accessibility for users with varying budgets and creative requirements. Performance Comparison Across Platforms When comparing Kling AI models to other platforms, each system demonstrates unique strengths and weaknesses that cater to different use cases: Kling 2.1 Master: Known for its fluid motion and accurate prompt interpretation, this model performs well in most scenarios but struggles with highly complex actions, such as fighting or jumping sequences. Known for its and accurate prompt interpretation, this model performs well in most scenarios but struggles with highly complex actions, such as fighting or jumping sequences. Google V3: Excels in text-to-video generation and sound effects, making it a strong choice for narrative-driven projects. However, it falls short in image-to-video quality and lacks the motion fluidity seen in Kling 2.1 Master. Excels in and sound effects, making it a strong choice for narrative-driven projects. However, it falls short in and lacks the motion fluidity seen in Kling 2.1 Master. Runway Gen 4: Particularly effective in maintaining character and location consistency when using references, but its video rendering quality and prompt understanding are less robust compared to Kling AI models. Particularly effective in maintaining when using references, but its video rendering quality and prompt understanding are less robust compared to Kling AI models. Minimax Hilio: The most affordable option, but its outdated technology limits resolution to 720p and results in poor motion coherence, making it less suitable for professional-grade projects. The choice of platform ultimately depends on your specific project needs, whether it's high-resolution output, narrative consistency, or cost-efficiency. Kling 2.1 AI Video Generator Performance Tested Watch this video on YouTube. Advance your skills in AI video generation by reading more of our detailed content. Strategies for Optimizing Prompts with Kling AI To maximize the potential of Kling AI's video generation models, it is essential to craft well-structured prompts. Follow these steps to achieve optimal results: Begin with a clear and concise description of the subject's action and the event you want to depict. of the subject's action and the event you want to depict. Incorporate details about camera motion , such as angles or zoom levels, to guide the AI's interpretation effectively. , such as angles or zoom levels, to guide the AI's interpretation effectively. Use descriptive keywords like 'calmly' or 'vividly' to enhance the pacing and rendering quality of the generated video. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that the AI aligns with your creative vision, producing videos that meet your expectations with greater precision. Pricing and Value Across Platforms Pricing is a critical factor when selecting an AI video generation platform. Kling AI offers competitive rates, starting at $7 per month for 660 credits. Here's how it compares to other platforms: Kling 2.1 Master: While it has a higher cost per video, it delivers premium-quality outputs that justify the expense for professional projects. While it has a higher cost per video, it delivers that justify the expense for professional projects. Google V3: Effective for text-to-video workflows but comes with a high price tag, making it less accessible for budget-conscious users. Effective for text-to-video workflows but comes with a high price tag, making it less accessible for budget-conscious users. Runway Gen 4: Offers an unlimited plan at a premium price, which is ideal for users who prioritize character consistency and frequent usage. Offers an unlimited plan at a premium price, which is ideal for users who prioritize and frequent usage. Minimax Hilio: The most affordable option, but its outdated capabilities make it less competitive for modern video generation needs. Your choice will depend on your budget and the specific features you prioritize, whether it's affordability, advanced motion rendering, or text-to-video capabilities. Additional Features That Enhance Usability Each platform includes unique features that can significantly impact your workflow and the quality of your final output. Here are some noteworthy tools and functionalities: Kling AI: Offers AI sound generation for 10 credits per use, along with support for external lip-sync tools like Dreamina, which improve audio synchronization and add realism to your videos. Offers for 10 credits per use, along with support for external lip-sync tools like Dreamina, which improve audio synchronization and add realism to your videos. Google AI Studio: Features Gemini 2.5, a natural text-to-speech tool with emotional control , allowing creators to add depth and nuance to video narratives. Features Gemini 2.5, a natural text-to-speech tool with , allowing creators to add depth and nuance to video narratives. Runway Gen 4: Allows the use of image and sketch references , providing precise control over scene design and character placement. Allows the use of , providing precise control over scene design and character placement. Minimax Hilio: Includes subject reference tools for consistent character creation, though it lacks the advanced features found in its competitors. These additional tools can enhance your creative process, offering greater flexibility and control over the final product. Making the Right Choice Kling 2.1 Master stands out as a strong contender for image-to-video generation, offering a compelling balance of quality and affordability. Google V3 remains a top choice for text-to-video applications, while Runway Gen 4 excels in maintaining character and location consistency. Minimax Hilio, despite its affordability, requires significant updates to remain competitive in the rapidly evolving AI video generation landscape. By understanding the strengths and limitations of each platform, you can confidently select the AI video generation tool that aligns with your creative goals, technical requirements, and budget. Whether you're a hobbyist exploring new possibilities or a professional seeking high-quality outputs, these platforms offer a range of solutions to meet your needs. Media Credit: CyberJungle Filed Under: AI, Guides Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
USA Today
26-05-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
How former LSU baseball outfielder Paxton Kling fared with Penn State in 2025
How former LSU baseball outfielder Paxton Kling fared with Penn State in 2025 Former LSU outfielder Paxton Kling turned in a stellar week at the Big Ten Tournament with Penn State to cap off his junior season. Through three games, Kling went seven for nine at the plate with two doubles as the Nittany Lions made a run to the semifinals for the second-straight season. Under second-year head coach Mike Gambino, Kling carved out a crucial role. The every day center fielder, Kling occupies the second spot in the lineup. Ninth-seeded Penn State upset Washington and USC to set up a rematch of last year's championship game against Nebraska. The Nittany Lions ultimately suffered a 6-3 loss. Kling commanded the outfield defensively but his best play of the tournament came on the base paths against the Huskies. He scored from second base on a sacrifice fly to center field to give Penn State a 3-0 lead in the top of the sixth inning. Through two seasons at LSU, Kling made 118 appearances with 61 starts. He batted .250 with 54 hits and a .402 on-base percentage. As a freshman in 2023, he was a part of the Tigers' national team championship team.
USA Today
20-05-2025
- USA Today
Teen charged in New Jersey fire denies responsibility for blaze: 'I kicked dirt on it'
Teen charged in New Jersey fire denies responsibility for blaze: 'I kicked dirt on it' Show Caption Hide Caption Joseph Kling, accused of starting the Jones Road wildfire, speaks with media Joseph Kling, accused of starting the Jones Road wildfire, speaks with the media after appearing for an early disposition conference in Toms River. TOMS RIVER, NJ — A New Jersey man accused of sparking a massive wildfire in central New Jersey in April denied responsibility for the blaze, saying other people with him should have extinguished the fire. Joseph Kling, 19, of Waretown, was charged with aggravated arson, arson, and hindering apprehension in connection with the Jones Road wildfire on April 23, according to the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office. The fire erupted on April 22 in Waretown — an unincorporated community on the Jersey Shore — and rapidly spread throughout the southern Ocean County area. The fire, determined to be the second largest in New Jersey in the past 20 years, consumed more than 15,000 acres of the Pine Barrens and destroyed at least one building and multiple outbuildings and vehicles. The blaze was declared 100% contained on May 12, according to the New Jersey Forest Fire Service. The cause of the fire was determined to be incendiary by an improperly extinguished bonfire, according to authorities. Prosecutors accused Kling of setting wooden pallets on fire and then leaving the area without the fire being fully extinguished. Following a brief court appearance on May 19, Kling told reporters there were 19 other people present at that bonfire, and 16 of them remained there when he left to help a friend in a dirt bike accident. Kling also said he tried to put out the fire before he left by kicking dirt on it. "I told them (the police) there were other people down there, and they ignored me," Kling said in front of the Ocean County Justice Complex with an electronic monitoring device visible on his ankle. "I kicked dirt on it and everything. I had the flame almost out." Following his arrest, Kling had been held in the Ocean County Jail until May 5, when Superior Court Judge Pamela Snyder placed him in home detention with an electronic monitoring anklet. The suspect is also charged in an unrelated case with simple assault and endangering an injured person in connection with a brawl that took place in the woods in Lacey in January. 2025 got off to a deadly start: How bad will wildfire season be in the US this year? Teen charged with setting wildfire A second teenage boy was also arrested in connection with the Jones Road wildfire. A 17-year-old, who was identified in court documents as the person who crashed his dirt bike, was charged with aggravated arson and hindering apprehension, Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer said on May 2. Gregory Lenzi, an assistant prosecutor for Ocean County, said the two defendants lied to police by falsely telling them that Mexican people started the blaze. An examination of phones belonging to both defendants revealed a chat between the two "appearing to refute the claim that Mexicans started the fire," according to Lenzi. Lenzi also noted that two others who were in the woods at the time of the incident told police that only the four of them were present when Kling placed two wooden pallets in a pit with gasoline and a gas-soaked item and lit it on fire. Those two people were identified in court documents as the defendants' girlfriends. "We caused the fire," the girlfriend of the 17-year-old defendant charged in the case said in a Snapchat conversation with a classmate, according to an affidavit of probable cause. Snapchat is a social media and instant messaging app where users can send videos, pictures, and messages that are usually only available for a short period. What to know: Greer Fire scorches over 20,000 acres across eastern Arizona Defense attorney argues Kling did not start the wildfire In response to Kling's comments on May 19, Billhimer said the investigation remains ongoing. "It would be inappropriate for us to offer further comment regarding the proofs," Billhimer said. "I will say that we look forward to trying this case in a courtroom, not on the courthouse steps." Kling's attorney, Joseph Compitello, said he expects more people to be prosecuted for the fire after a full investigation. The defense attorney insisted his client did not start the fire. Compitello said Kling "was unfortunately pinpointed, he was taken preemptively, and his statements, which have been consistent from day one, have been ignored, pushed aside," and not taken seriously. Julie Peterson, an assistant prosecutor for Ocean County, said at a news conference that no plea offer has been extended to Kling due to the active investigation. She said there still may be additional victims coming forward. "The state is still gathering information to get a big picture of the damage in the area," Peterson told Superior Court Judge Guy P. Ryan. Contributing: Thao Nguyen, USA TODAY
New York Post
20-05-2025
- New York Post
Teen charged with starting NJ wildfire blames ‘other people' at scene of blaze that burned more than 15K acres
A New Jersey man charged with starting the wildfire that tore through the eastern part of the state last month claimed that he shouldn't be blamed because more than a dozen others present at the time also failed to extinguish the flames. Joseph Kling, 19, was charged with aggravated arson and arson on April 23 for the out-of-control wildfire that tore through southern Ocean County, the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office said. The fire destroyed around 15,300 acres and was only declared 100% contained on May 12. On April 21, Kling allegedly set a pile of wooden pallets on fire and left without putting it out. 4 Joseph Kling, 19, claimed that more than a dozen others were present when he left the bonfire that later sparked the wildfire. AP 4 The wildfire proceeded to tear through more than 15,000 acres of the Garden State. Getty Images Kling told NBC Philadelphia that he had to leave early to take his friend to the hospital after a gnarly dirt bike crash, but noted that there were still about 16 other people there when he departed. 'There were other people there, and I tried,' Kling insisted to the outlet. 'I kicked dirt on it and everything. I had the flame almost out, and other people were there.' 4 Thousands of residents had to evacuate after the blaze tore through AP 4 A 17-year-old was also charged in connection with the wildfire. AP So far, only Kling and an unidentified 17-year-old have been charged in connection with the Jones Road wildfire. The younger teen faces the same charges as Kling, including a hindering apprehension charge that was tacked on after the two allegedly lied to police and tried to pin the blame on Mexicans, prosecutors said. The fire reportedly started in an isolated area within the Ocean County Natural Lands Trust's Forked River Mountains Wilderness Area. It forced thousands to flee and was one of the largest wildfires recorded in the Garden State in recent years.
