I'm here ... and trying to clear some tasks to my multitasking limit. Unfortunately the State of New Jersey has allowed Verizon to completely default on its obligation to keep the phones working in all circumstances, and copper-wired, centrally-powered service (POTS--Plain Old Telephone Service) is ending in favor of Fiber-to-the-Home, with power backup provided by D-cell batteries that are only expected to last for 24 hours. ("Don't turn it on unless you are expecting a call."--Seriously!? Then what good is it?) Worse, I fear there may be active circuitry in the battery box, making it hard to cutover automatically and hard to replace. I may need to go for a full UP$, with 400 Wh or more. $$$$$$$
I have to clear wall space, etc., while I'm trying to get other projects cleared.
I am seriously pissed with both Verizon and the gutless, witless utility regulators, and I hope that people rip the government officials off in their personal lives the way Verizon has ripped off the people they are supposed to represent.