Walter Writes outputs

The increase in popularity of long-form podcasts as a primary source of news has been a significant step forward in promoting citizen awareness of current issues, as long-form podcasts require citizens to exercise some degree of critical thinking in evaluating what they hear. In today's news culture of headline and clip based information, and the increasing prevalence of media driven by algorithms intended to create controversy, the long-form podcast offers one thing that appears to be increasingly scarce -- time. The ability to provide context, nuance, and sustained consideration on complex issues is exactly why podcasts are so well-suited to the vast majority of citizens who need far more than brief summaries of events to begin to understand the complexities of our society. A number of benefits exist for listening to long-form podcasts over other forms of journalism. One key benefit is the level of detail provided in these types of programs. Unlike television newscasts which typically condense hours or days of news into just a few minutes (leaving little opportunity for exploration of the details or different perspectives), long-form podcasts allow for an hour or longer of detailed examination of a subject. Additionally, podcasts afford opportunities for the inclusion of multiple experts and/or perspectives regarding a given issue, which is particularly important for complex subjects such as war, elections, climate policy, public health and/or economic downturns, where superficial reporting could lead to serious misunderstanding. When listeners are exposed to extensive conversations rather than short "soundbites" they are much better equipped to develop an appreciation for ambiguity, disagreement, and complexity. Long-form podcasts also promote greater access to news for the average person. For example, many individuals lack the time required to either read a lengthy article, or watch a newscast; however, they may find the time available during commutes, workouts, or household chores sufficient to engage with a podcast. As a result of this increased availability, there are now significantly more opportunities for citizens to remain aware of current events within the normal course of daily activities. Furthermore, podcasts frequently utilize conversational language to describe difficult topics and therefore may help individuals feel less intimidated about learning about those very issues. Rather than present news as a remote lecture to its audience, podcasts invite listeners into conversation about their concerns. On the other hand, critics assert that podcasts serve as a conduit for misinformation due to their relatively unregulated status. While this is indeed true, it is not a unique situation. Television, print media, and social media all have the potential to distort facts. Therefore, instead of dismissing podcasts altogether, citizens should simply approach each with a healthy dose of skepticism. Citizens should carefully examine factors including the reputation and credibility of the hosts, the reliability of cited sources, evidence of fact checking efforts employed in the production process, and whether opposing viewpoints were treated fairly. If done properly, reputable long-form podcasts can establish themselves at the highest levels of journalistic standards despite being somewhat deeper than many other journalistic formats. Another critique leveled against long-form podcasts asserts that they tend to foster ideological isolation. Because listeners will typically opt for shows that reflect their own particular viewpoint/belief system/interests, they may intentionally avoid hearing opposing viewpoints. That said, this exact challenge exists throughout contemporary media. Long-form interviews often succeed in reducing polarization by allowing interviewees adequate space to thoroughly express their rationale versus creating an atmosphere in which guests are forced into hostility toward their opponent.

As we continue to be bombarded with complaints about how many meetings are needed to get something done in today's business world, it is imperative that we understand why this continues to happen. We have created environments that allow us to communicate at a higher rate than ever before, yet lost focus on what our ultimate goal should be. We now use meetings as a way to avoid making decisions. Collaboration has become synonymous with progress and they are often mistaken for each other. The reason for these frustrations lies in the "Calendar Creep." Companies have enabled calendar creep through the use of tools such as Outlook and Teams. One click allows people to take someone else's hour. As a result, companies treat calendars like they are public property. The end result is that knowledge workers are left with disjointed and unreliable schedules. Disjointed schedules destroy the ability to do deep work (the uninterrupted, focused time necessary to solve complex problems). Because professionals must constantly switch back and forth between meetings, their productivity decreases significantly and creates a stressful cycle of working late just so you can finish your day job. Additionally, meetings also lack structural integrity. Most meetings do not have defined agendas, measurable objectives, or designations of who will facilitate them. Instead, they turn into a status update session where information could easily have been shared via email or a quick note. Meetings also turn into brainstorming sessions where those with the loudest voice dictate what happens instead of making action based decisions. Lastly, the issue is not about humans interacting; it is about time being stolen. A culture that emphasizes efficiency sees empty collaboration as a form of performance versus a functional tool. It will not stop until businesses realize that time is a limited and extremely valuable resource and empty calendars are signs of trust verses laziness.

My desire to pursue industrial design stems primarily from my interest in combining several areas which I find most interesting: the creative aspect of art, problem solving, technology, and the ability to understand the needs of individuals. From a very young age, I was fascinated with the creation of products and how they functioned. This fascination led to the realization that there are many products that appear simple, yet were designed with specific intentions. Some products are more successful than others at achieving their intended purpose. What drew me to the area of industrial design was not just to make aesthetically pleasing products. I wanted to be involved in the development of products that improve the lives of consumers on a variety of levels (i.e., where you live, work, travel, etc.). All types of products, including those we encounter every day (e.g., chairs, telephones, packaging, kitchen utensils) and more complex items (e.g., medical equipment, sustainable transportation), can all be shaped by the product designer. I am intrigued by the process of first determining if a consumer has identified a need for a product. Once a potential product idea is determined, a researcher will conduct studies regarding the user population. Next, sketches are developed to visually communicate the concept of the new product. After developing initial prototype designs, researchers will test these models to determine the effectiveness of each design element. This iterative design cycle continues until a final product is created. I appreciate both aspects of the product design process. An additional reason I wish to pursue a degree in Industrial Design is to utilize my artistic skill set combined with model building techniques and computer-based software, and materials science to address ergonomic issues related to the production of goods and various manufacturing methods. Additionally, I have particular interests within industrial design that relate to sustainability and social responsibility. There are many problems that exist today that cannot be ignored (e.g., pollution, inequality in resource distribution). Product designers have significant opportunities to create products that minimize harm to society and reduce environmental damage. Therefore, it is essential for designers to produce durable products that may require repairs over time, provide equitable usage options for all demographics, and offer environmentally friendly alternatives to existing practices. Ideally, when designing a product, I want to think critically about all of the design decisions I make so that they not only provide aesthetic appeal and functionality, but also assess the positive impacts on society and the longevity of my products. Attending school for industrial design will enable me to acquire the technical skills necessary to convert my concepts into viable solutions. Also, attending school for industrial design will give me the creative freedom and critical thinking abilities required to turn ideas into actual realities. I am enthusiastic about working within collaborative environments, receiving constructive criticism from peers and mentors alike and learning from their diverse experiences. Although good design involves being curious, patient, experimental and resilient, I believe that studying industrial design provides an ideal environment for me to continually improve my concepts via research and design iterations. In conclusion, I wish to attend college for industrial design because it represents a tangible means for me to apply my creativity toward producing positive results in the world. Ultimately, I hope to design products that are efficient, environmentally responsible and pleasing to use.

# The Meeting Conundrum It is now widely acknowledged as the single biggest source of dissatisfaction at the workplace – meetings. The reasons behind this dissatisfaction are symptoms of some larger issues regarding how we organize our collaborative efforts. Firstly, with the advent of digital calendars, it was made easy to schedule meetings. Before then, the inconvenience of setting up a meeting limited how often they occurred. Now with only a couple of mouse clicks required to set up a meeting, the emotional cost associated with holding a meeting is gone. Therefore, an enormous number of meetings are being scheduled (in terms of numbers) but the value of these meetings remains static. Secondly, working remotely/hybrid models have created a new dependence on meetings. With the elimination of informal face-to-face communication (hallway talk), and desk side visits; organizations are filling this void through formally scheduled meetings to compensate for lost informal/organic communication. Calendars are becoming crowded with synchronous time which breaks up focus. Thirdly, the general public seems confused between "activity" and "productivity". Although meetings provide obvious evidence that "things are getting done" ("it looks like work is being done", "there will be something to reference", etc.) as well as providing an apparent way for supervisors to document supervision, the benefits of meetings do not always outweigh the costs associated with using asynchronous communication methods. Fourthly, poor meeting etiquette has been accepted as normal behavior. Vague meeting objectives, ambiguous decision making authority, over attendance, and fixed time durations for all meetings (typically either 30 minutes or 1 hour) regardless of the amount of time needed to meet the objective(s). Most organizations do not train employees on effective meeting management techniques. Thus, poor behaviors are compounded. Lastly, knowledge workers desire uninterrupted periods of high concentration on tasks; interruptions such as those caused by meetings disrupts flow states, and therefore are perceived as having increasing opportunity costs. In summary, complaints about meetings are ultimately a symptom of a larger conversation surrounding how we allocate and use organizational time collectively.

**The Rise in Youth Screen Time Raises Red Flags About Teenage Mental Health.** With Smartphones, Streaming Platforms, and Social Media becoming an integral part of daily life, Parents, Educators and Healthcare Professionals are continuing to investigate the potential impact of Screen Time on Adolescent Mental Health. Adolescents today are spending hours per day online for Schoolwork, Entertainment, Socializing and Gaming. While Digital Tools can assist Young People in Staying Connected to others, Accessing Information and Finding Supportive Communities, Experts indicate Excessive or Poorly Managed Screen Use may lead to Sleep Problems, Anxiety, Low Mood and Reduced Physical Activity. Researchers on Adolescent Mental Health stress that the Relationship is Complex. Researchers State that Screen Time itself does not Always Cause Harm. The Type of Activity, Time of Day, Content Viewed by the Child, and the Child's Pre-existing Vulnerabilities all Matter. For Example a Teenager Using Video Chat to Connect with Friends May Have a Very Different Experience Than One Spending Late Night Hours Scrolling Through Comparison-Driven Social Media Posts. "Quality Matters Just As Much as Quantity," Many Clinicians Stress. Online Environments Can Expose Adolescents to Cyberbullying, Unrealistic Beauty Standards, Violent Content or Constant Social Comparisons. At the Same Time Digital Spaces Can Provide Belonging for Young People Who Feel Isolated Offline Including Those Seeking Support Around Identity Disability or Mental Health Challenges. Poor Sleep Remains One of the Most Clear Concerns. Health Professionals Indicate that Device Use into the Night Can Delay Bedtime, Interrupt Sleep with Notifications and Make it Harder for Teens to Maintain Consistent Routines. Poor Sleep Has Been Strongly Linked to Depression, Irritability, Academic Difficulties and Emotional Regulation Problems. Schools Are Responding Differently. Some Districts Are Restricting Phone Use During the School Day Citing Improved Focus and Fewer Classroom Disruptions. Other Districts Are Teaching Digital Literacy Helping Students Identify Harmful Content Manage Privacy and Understand How Platforms are Designed to Capture Attention. Parents Are Also Looking for Practical Guidance. Pediatric Experts Often Recommend Creating Family Media Plans Rather than Imposing Blanket Bans. Recommended Steps Include Keeping Devices Out of Bedrooms at Night Setting Screen-Free Times During Meals and Before Bed Encouraging Outdoor Activity and Discussing Online Experiences Without Judgment. Warning Signs That Screen Use May Be Affecting Mental Health Include Withdrawal From Off-Line Friendships Declining Grades Loss of Interest in Usual Activities Frequent Conflict Over Devices Changes in Sleep or Appetite and Signs of Distress After Being Online. Experts Say the Goal Is Balance Not Panic. Technology is Now Part of Adolescence and Eliminating It Entirely is Neither Realistic Nor Necessarily Beneficial. Families and Communities are Being Urged to Help Teens Build Healthier Digital Habits. As Concern Over Youth Mental Health Continues to Rise Screen Time Will Likely Continue To be a Major Topic of Discussion Among Parents Schools Technology Companies and Young People Themselves.

# Windowsill Herb Garden Kit Create your own mini-market in your kitchen, on your windowsill with this complete Indoor Herb Garden Starter Kit. Everything needed to create a continuous supply of fresh, aromatic herbs throughout the year is included, regardless of gardening experience. The kit contains: 6 ceramic planters to reuse over and again, 6 premium certified organic seed packages (basil, cilantro, parsley, mint, thyme & chives) & 2 coconut coir growing pucks & 1 moisture wick capillary mat designed to keep soil moist until watering next. There is also a comprehensive growing instructions book which takes each new gardener through each process from start to finish. These kits will easily fit into most kitchens or small apartments because they come in compact trays that can sit anywhere there is sunlight available (on a windowsill or under grow lights). You should see your seeds begin to sprout within just a few days after you have planted them. In about 30-60 days after you've planted them you will have plenty of fresh herbs to use in all of your cooking favorites. No more wilted purchased bunches of herbs. Bring the freshest flavors of the field right to your kitchen counter! If you're an experienced cook or if you're a novice, this is an excellent choice for gifts. Any person who wants to lower their grocery costs by producing some of their own food while working towards reducing their carbon footprint would benefit greatly from using this product. The planters themselves make great decorative pieces when your plants are mature and thriving. Grow your skills, along with your confidence. One herb sprout at a time.

#Cover Letter for Policy Analyst Position Dear Hiring Manger, I am submitting an application to the Policy Analyst position with the City of [City Name] as it will provide me with the opportunity to utilize my knowledge and skills in the field of public policy. I have extensive knowledge of the design of effective, equitable policies that positively impact residents’ quality of life through public policy research, data analysis and community outreach. As a Policy Research Associate at [Current Organization], I have acquired the ability to translate large amounts of information into clear and concise recommendations for decision-makers. A good example is when I conducted a detailed analysis of affordable housing initiatives. The process included examining zoning laws and interviewing key stakeholders, and also researching best practices in comparable cities. As a result of this project, I provided three policy recommendations to the city council. These recommendations contributed to an additional 15% increase in affordable housing in the next calendar year. When analyzing policy, one must be able to take more than just technical knowledge, but rather be able to assess the needs of the community and navigate the political arena with care. One way that I have taken this responsibility seriously throughout my career is by establishing relationships with various stakeholders such as non-profit organizations, business leaders, and governmental officials. By working together with these groups to develop policy that reflects the needs of every resident, I believe that I can help create a stronger connection between data driven analysis and community involvement. What drew me to this particular position was the fact that [City Name] had recently implemented several programs in areas that are aligned with my professional values and experiences. In addition to implementing many new programs, [City Name] has worked on a variety of projects; however, one project that really caught my attention was [Reference to a specific project or policy]. Based on my professional background and experiences related to this program, I feel confident that I could bring a high level of collaboration and analytical thinking to a team committed to creating positive change for their constituents. The combination of statistical software (such as R and Stata) and communication tools (including strong writing and presentation skills) allow me to analyze information thoroughly while providing results to different types of audiences such as technical staff, elected officials, and the general population. Additionally, I have been successful in completing numerous tasks simultaneously and perform well in rapidly changing environments where there may be changes in priority due to emerging community issues. I would appreciate the opportunity to talk to you further regarding how my history in policy analysis and dedication to public service relate to the objectives of your department. Thank you for taking my job application under consideration. I would like the chance to continue making contributions toward [City Name]'s goal of improving the lives of residents.

Industrial designers are the ones behind every product we see and interact with on a day-to-day basis. Everything around us tells an underlying story of the designer. Their values, beliefs, and understanding of human needs. When I was growing up, I would take apart broken appliances, such as a toaster or coffee maker, to figure out why they were made that way. I did not do this to repair them — I wanted to know why they were made. The same thing happened when I took apart a broken lawn mower. It was then that I realized that I had developed a curiosity about how products are created. My curiosity eventually turned into a desire to pursue industrial design. The reason I love industrial design is that it combines two things that I find to be very interesting: problem solving and creativity. However, it does not stop there. While many people view industrial design as being based solely on aesthetics, it really comes down to understanding people so well that you can create products which enhance their quality of life without them even realizing it. For example, a well-designed chair can support the users back without them having to think about it. A well-designed tool will feel comfortable in your hand from the moment you pick it up because someone considered how heavy it is, how large it is, and how easy it is to move while designing the tool. I find this type of "invisible" thoughtfulness fascinating and believe that I could help create this type of thoughtfulness in others. During the last two years, I have been able to explore my interest in industrial design through several independent projects. One project included designing a new foldable desk organizer for use in small apartment settings. Another involved prototyping a new measuring cup that would allow individuals with limited hand dexterity to measure liquids easily. Both of these projects allowed me to experience firsthand how important it is to consider the user in addition to the technical aspects of design. Understanding both how a product should function and who will be using it (and what issues they will likely encounter) will greatly influence its success. Through both of these projects, I learned that the best designs require not only technical skills but also the ability to empathize with the end-user. In addition to learning how to design with empathy, I enjoyed the iteration process of drawing ideas, building prototypes, testing them, failing, and improving upon the previous version until I achieved my desired results. Each of the failures only served to illustrate where my design lacked and what features needed to be added in order for it to meet its intended purpose. In addition to wanting to develop my own personal passion for design, I was attracted to studying industrial design because it is the intersection point of five other disciplines: engineering, psychology, art, sustainability, and science. As such, I want to learn more about how different materials perform under various conditions, how manufacturing processes affect the design process, and how our design choices affect all aspects of society and the environment. Through studying industrial design, I hope to obtain a strong technical background combined with the discipline necessary to bring my ideas into reality. Ultimately, I wish to create products that assist people in improving their quality of life in subtle yet meaningful ways. Products that address unmet needs, reduce unnecessary frustration and demonstrate genuine concern for those who will ultimately be using them. Obtaining an education in industrial design will provide me with the tools and knowledge required to achieve my goals.

Subject: big News: parental leave will now be 20 Weeks! Hello all, As an organization, we believe that one of the biggest strengths is the people working here. As such, supporting you both professionally as well as personally in times of major milestones in your life, is central to who we are. For this reason, i am so excited to share a very important update regarding one of our family benefit packages. Beginning on [Date], we are enhancing our paid family medical leave policy. This will now allow all eligible employees **twenty (20) weeks of full pay**, while they care for their newborn baby, whether born via biological delivery or adopted; and/or foster children. Please note that this policy is absolutely inclusive of all types of parents. The eligibility does not apply to specific genders. Regardless if you're having a child by biological delivery or adoption/foster placement; we want to provide you with the opportunity to spend quality Time with your family members during this extremely special Time of bonding and adjusting to your new role(s). We understand that entering into parenthood is an incredibly life-changing event. As such, we feel providing twenty weeks of paid leave will assist in alleviating many of the pressures associated with this transition. Thusly, enabling you to solely focus on caring for and spending Time with your loved ones. A member from our human resources department will hold a question & answer session about the changes to our policy including eligibility requirements and transitioning back to work on [day of week] at [Time]. Prior to this meeting Date and Time, please take advantage of reviewing the updated Company policy located on [Internal Portal/Shared Drive]; or simply Contact [HR Contact Email]. Once again thank you for your ongoing commitment to achieving our corporate mission. We appreciate investing in your overall well-being and being able to support you throughout all stages of your life's journey. Warm regards, [your name] [your job title] [Company name]

(Introduction)** Urban housing affordability has become one of the most challenging social/economic issues of our time. As urbanization intensifies globally and housing is no longer simply a basic human necessity, but rather a major challenge faced by both lower- and middle-income families in many metropolitan cities around the world. Cities continue to be the engines of national economies; however, this also results in increased pressures for housing, which leads to rising real estate prices far beyond the rate of average wages. The resulting gap between the cost of housing and the ability of households to afford it has serious impacts on urban sustainability, exacerbates socio-spatial inequalities and diminishes the quality-of-life of urban residents. Therefore, understanding the factors contributing to affordable housing needs to be addressed by all stakeholders including urban planners, government officials and sociologists. There is considerable variability in the academic study of urban housing affordability. In particular, there have been changes in how housing affordability is defined and calculated over the years. The earlier studies typically utilized very simplistic measures of affordability; examples include ratios that compare housing costs as a percentage of household income. For example, the commonly referenced 'housing affordability' metric that defines housing as affordable when less than 30% of household income goes toward housing costs. More recent scholarship suggests these traditional methods do not provide a complete picture of what makes for affordable housing today. There is growing support among current scholars for using more comprehensive approaches like the 'residual income' method. This residual income method considers other important household expenses in addition to housing, while also considering transportation costs as part of evaluating whether or not housing is truly spatially affordable. The shift towards these alternative methodologies reflects a greater realization that measuring the affordability of housing involves more than just assessing a family's ability to pay their mortgage or rent, but is influenced by geographic location, availability of public transit and socio-economic vulnerability. Scholars are also sharply divided regarding what contributes to the decline in housing affordability and/or effectiveness of potential remedies. On one hand, some researchers believe that the primary cause of declining affordability is due to supply-side problems. Specifically, they contend that restrictive zoning regulations and/or land use restrictions reduce the number of new homes available to purchase/rent and subsequently increase home prices. On the other hand, other researchers point to demand-side problems as being responsible for declining housing affordability. They argue that with the increasing trend of treating residential property as an investment vehicle for foreign investors, domestic hedge funds and private equity firms, combined with aggressive marketing campaigns touting "real estate investments," the housing market has experienced an unprecedented level of financial speculation. Consequently, there exists ongoing debate as to whether addressing declining affordability requires either market-based solutions or state based regulatory policies. This literature review will synthesize the many bodies of research on urban housing affordability. First, we will examine the evolution of conceptualizing and calculating affordability. Second, we will analyze the competing perspectives on why housing affordability declined - whether due to supply side problems such as restrictive zoning/land use regulations and/or demand side problems related to financialization of housing. Third, we will assess a wide variety of policy responses intended to address declining affordability such as inclusionary zoning, rent controls, etc. and ultimately determine where there may exist knowledge gaps in the existing literature that could potentially lead to fruitful avenues of research for the future in a rapidly changing global marketplace.

Meetings are seen culturally as an example of the overall frustration employees experience with the amount of time spent on communication vs. task completion. This is due largely to how companies have evolved into more complicated systems with a greater number of departments, functions, and locations. These complications require meetings as the primary means of coordinating, synchronizing efforts, and demonstrating inclusiveness. However, most meetings do not meet the criteria of having clearly defined agenda items, assigned decision makers, or measurable objectives. Therefore, many attendees feel they wasted valuable time "talking" instead of actually moving forward with their job responsibilities. Additionally, meetings serve as a replacement for employee trust and clarity. Managers will hold meetings to increase visibility over an employee's workflow; to mitigate ambiguity/uncertainty; or to demonstrate the presence of team effort. Similarly, employees will participate in meetings as a way to avoid perceived risk of non-participation (declining participation) or appearing to be unprofessional/disingenuous. This behavior establishes meetings as an integral component of workplace performance culture. While employees want to be perceived as productive, being present at all times (visible) appears to be equally or more important. The rise of working from home and/or hybrid environments further contributes to the increased criticism of meetings. With video conferencing capabilities allowing multiple simultaneous connections, calendars are becoming increasingly filled with virtual conference calls. The increased fatigue associated with these video calls does not offer the socialization opportunities that would occur in person. Finally, the critique of meetings represents employees' frustrations with how companies allocate and use their employees' time, as well as who ultimately holds authority over what aspects of their job responsibilities.

The current state of traditional journalism is at risk. Cable television (and increasingly all forms of electronic media) is dominated by short sound bites and click bait. A response to these types of formats exists — long form podcasts. These long form podcasts are now the main source of information for many millions of people. Long form podcasts represent a major correction needed in our democracy. They provide both depth and breadth that is lacking in much of today's journalism. One of the most valuable aspects of a long form podcast is their ability to avoid the tyranny of time constraints. Traditional television news operates on strict seven minute segments broken up by commercial breaks. As such, when discussing complex political issues, economic policy, or social problems, journalists can only touch on the surface level. Journalists rarely allow enough time to fully explore an issue and present the various sides. Long form podcasts, however, do. Guests may be scientists, historians, politicians etc. They may spend hours discussing the ins and outs of a particular topic. In addition to telling you what to think about a topic, a long form podcast will show you why you should think one way versus another, along with the supporting data and potential opposing viewpoints. Allowing for a better-informed citizenry is a benefit of long form podcasting. Additionally, long form podcasts create a connection between the listener and the guest that is typically absent from mainstream media. Many mainstream media outlets have become so polished and scripted that the viewer/reader has lost trust in them. Additionally, many mainstream journalists read off a tele-prompter which makes them appear less relatable and authentic. On a long form podcast you hear pauses in speech, vulnerabilities and even the learning process through discussion. The use of pause filled dialogue creates a sense of connection to the guest. Also, rather than using straw man arguments to make an opponents point look weak, long form podcasters often "steel man" an opponents position, creating a more realistic and thought provoking debate. Overall, long form podcasting has created opportunities for meaningful and difficult debates to take place in areas where traditionally media has divided us for ratings purposes. Criticisms of long form podcasting include that while they often engage in deep and meaningful conversation, there is no formal editorial oversight or fact checking like we see in traditional journalism. However, while it is correct that false information can spread without regulation, I believe this criticism underestimates the ability of today's active listeners. If a podcaster continually provides false information they will likely be called out by a community of experts and other listeners. Furthermore, due to the poor quality of reporting we see from mainstream media regarding factual accuracy, their claims to being an authoritative source for knowledge seem discredited. In conclusion, I firmly believe that the shift towards long form podcasting as a source of information is not merely a temporary phenomenon, but rather a necessary development for democracy as a whole. With an emphasis on depth instead of speed and with an emphasis on conversation instead of confrontation; long form podcasting seems poised to revive the dying art of public discourse.

Here is your high-converting copy with emotion and action: *** # **ten thousand steps. Zero injuries. And a finish line all your own.** Are you dreaming of crossing that finish line at the 10k distance, but unsure about how to begin? Have you been fearful of injuries; lost your momentum; or simply unable to catch your breath after the first mile? Most running apps are designed for the experienced runner. They push you too hard, too fast. As a result, they leave you sore, frustrated, and sitting on the sidelines. **Stride10** is different. Stride10 is an intelligent, web-based training platform for first time 10k runners. ### **building confidence through steady progress** At Stride10, we believe that tracking your runs is not enough. We want to help you build your confidence through steady progress. That's why our system builds a custom training program based on your unique fitness level, availability (or lack thereof), and your ability to recover from each workout. This way, whether you have 30 minutes or two hours per day to dedicate to working out, you know what you need to do to complete your goals without risking serious injury. Some ways that **Stride10** helps you train safely and effectively include: * **pace coaching via heart rate feedback**: audio feedback that adjusts your pace as needed based upon your current heart rate, so you never go too fast and risk burning out early. * **active recovery and mobility training**: short, pre-designed strength and stretching exercises embedded within every workout to keep your knee joints safe and healthy. * **Drag-and-drop workout schedule**: when Life gets in the way, Drag and drop your workouts into a new order. The Stride10 algorithm recalculates your entire week so you always remain on course to meet your goal! * **the "finish line" guarantee**: follow your adaptive plan, and we guarantee that you'll be able to cross that 10k finish line feeling strong-not spent! ### **here is what one of our finishers has to say:** > *"i tried three other free PDF training plans prior to using Stride10. I had to stop using all three of them because i developed severe shin splints. With Stride10 adjusting my run paces according to my fatigue levels while keeping my training healthy, i successfully completed my very first 10k with a huge smile on my face."* > > *— sarah m. , age 34* ### **let's run together:** You've got this! Don't wonder if you can make it across that finish line... Start knowing you will. Get your own personalized roadmap to success today! **[take advantage of your 14-Day free trial today! ]**

A shift away from traditional news broadcasting toward the increasing popularity of long form podcasts is possibly one of the largest and best shifts in news consumption during the digital age. With millions now turning to hour plus discussions to understand current events, the increasing tendency of consumers to consume news via podcasts should be seen as positive rather than negative. It is in fact an opportunity to provide viewers with the type of depth, context and truth that has been lacking in news due to the emphasis on brevity in traditional news reporting. One of the strongest arguments in favor of long form podcasts are their ability to delve deeply. Short news segments consisting of no more than two or three minutes will take complex subjects and condense them down into bite-sized "sound bites" that fail to truly convey the essence of a subject. Conversely, a conversation among podcasters that may last anywhere from two to three hours provides the time needed to explore a topic in the same manner in which we would like to see it explored. Viewers can listen as the host and guest (or guests) work through an issue; respond and clarify each other's thoughts; and gain an overall greater understanding of those subjects that lend themselves poorly to being summarized. In addition, there is an inherent value to complexity being allowed within the structure of a podcast, rather than having it flattened out. Another advantage of long form podcasts is that they create a true feeling of authenticity that is lost when polished newscasts air. When hosts and guests spend extended amounts of time discussing topics, forced performances ("talking points") tend to be replaced by the natural flow of thought and spontaneous reasoning. Viewers are able to hear individuals think aloud, acknowledge uncertainty and even change their mind — all characteristics of humans that help foster trust where scripted television appearances will not. By allowing listeners to assess not only what someone thinks but how he/she came to that conclusion, podcasts promote a level of credibility that is absent from much of the rest of our television viewing. Criticism regarding misrepresentation and "echo chamber" effects present in some podcast environments are valid. These are however problems associated with virtually every medium including traditional broadcast networks whose institutional biases and advertising influences serve to influence coverage. Rather than advocating for shorter formats, education aimed at developing media literacy skills that enable viewers to critically assess all information regardless of its length could potentially help mitigate such concerns. Furthermore, the interview style format used by many podcasts creates opportunities for real debates and cross examinations to occur which are often absent in traditional broadcasts that rely upon either single speaker monologues or brief panels. Long form podcasts also represent a democratic approach to providing expertise. While podcasting does not guarantee equal representation for experts in various fields, it does provide a platform whereby specialists, scientists and practitioners can discuss their areas of expertise directly with audiences without the distortion and simplification traditionally imposed upon them by the media. The ability for audiences to receive first-hand knowledge from primary sources represents a distinct improvement over second hand summaries. In light of traditional media continuing its consolidation into shorter formats focused on engaging audiences instead of providing a thorough understanding of the world, long form podcasts provide a much-needed alternative. Providing both audience members with the incentive to engage in listening -- patience, focus, critical thinking -- while providing audience members with the benefit of gaining a deeper understanding rather than shallow impressions; this transformation in news consumption should be viewed positively as evidence that audiences have returned to more serious forms of discussion despite decreasing attention span.

While there exists considerable knowledge about the impact of climate-related hazards on both the built environment and the economy, very little attention has been paid to the effects of extreme weather events on people's physical activity levels. The purpose of this study was to determine the extent to which the frequency and severity of extreme weather events (hurricanes) affect the level of physical activity among older adults. The results indicated that hurricane frequency had no significant effect upon the amount of walking or bicycling done by respondents; however, as hurricanes became stronger, respondents reported significantly less bicycle riding, running/jogging/walking and/or other forms of physical activity. Overall, the data suggest that increased frequency and strength of hurricanes negatively impacts older adult engagement in regular physical activities. Thus, there appears to be a need for researchers to examine additional environmental stressors related to natural disasters. In conclusion, extreme weather events do appear to negatively impact older adults' levels of participation in regular physical activities. Therefore, older adults who live in areas prone to extreme weather events should be encouraged to take action to mitigate some potential negative effects of severe storms. Specifically, older adults living in coastal areas that experience frequent hurricanes could prepare themselves by engaging in physical exercise before the onset of each hurricane season. Additionally, older adults could engage in physical activity during the storm itself to help maintain cardiovascular function, blood flow, circulation, muscle tone, balance and flexibility. Older adults who are able to walk outdoors during a hurricane would likely benefit from doing so since walking provides numerous benefits for individuals exposed to high winds and heavy rain. Older adults who are unable to physically leave their homes during a hurricane may wish to consider indoor-based exercises like yoga, stretching, etc. Finally, if possible, older adults could relocate temporarily to non-coastal regions that typically do not experience frequent severe weather events. This relocation strategy would provide older adults with a safe opportunity to engage regularly in various types of physical activities. In summary, while there is currently a lack of scientific evidence regarding the specific effects of extreme weather events (e.g., hurricanes) on older adults' levels of engagement in regular physical activities, our study provides preliminary support for this relationship. Furthermore, we believe that future studies examining similar relationships will ultimately lead to better understanding of how older adults cope with extreme weather events.

It is possible to renovate a small bathroom in just one weekend; however, this would be based on cosmetic updates as opposed to major plumbing, electrical and/or layout changes. Planning ahead of the renovation process, purchasing all needed supplies prior to the start date and focusing on those projects that will produce the greatest immediate results is the key to a successful renovation within a single weekend. ### Pre-Weekend Preparation: Create Your Plan & Gather Materials Before starting to renovate, measure out your bathroom carefully and consider which elements you wish to update. Cosmetic upgrades that can be completed in one weekend may include: painting the walls, changing hardware (such as door handles), installing a new mirror, modifying lighting, switching out your faucet(s), creating additional storage through shelves, re-caulking, and refreshing bathroom accessories. Unless you have experience working with these systems, do not attempt to move the location of your toilet, shower or sink. Purchase every item you will require before Friday so that you can complete your project efficiently over the weekend. This includes: paint, roller and extension pole, painters tape, caulk, grout cleaner, new fixtures, towels, storage baskets, etc., along with any necessary hand tools. When opening new packaging and inspecting the contents verify that all parts required to complete your project are present. In addition, when replacing a faucet or light fixture ensure that they match the previous connections. ### Friday Night: Prepare Your Bathroom Space Remove all objects from your bathroom including: toiletries, rugs, wall decorations and shower curtains. Remove old towel bars, hooks, mirrors and hardware from cabinets. Thoroughly clean your bathroom space including around the sink, toilet, shower and baseboard areas. It's easier to paint, caulk and attach adhesive products after you've cleaned the surface completely. Apply patching compound to cover small holes created by nails or small dents in the walls. After the patch has dried use a fine-grit sandpaper to remove excess material. Wipe away any remaining dust using a damp cloth. Apply painter's tape around your trim, tile, mirrors and any other fixtures. ### Saturday: Paint and Update Fixtures/Elements Begin early by painting. Since you're remodeling a bathroom it's highly recommended that you utilize a mildew-resistant bathroom paint in a lighter color to create the illusion of a larger space. Begin painting by applying a border or "cut-in" around all edges first. Then begin rolling the walls. Due to their size most small bathrooms typically require only one gallon of paint; however, two thin coats of paint tend to provide better coverage. Be sure to allow sufficient drying time between coats. While your paint is drying address some of the smaller replacement tasks. Install new cabinet knobs, towel hooks, toilet paper holders or a contemporary-style mirror. Although we encourage DIY homeowners to disconnect water supply lines before attempting to install a new faucet if you're uncomfortable doing so contact a licensed plumber to assist with this task. In regards to lighting: turn off power at the breaker box before removing any lighting fixture; alternatively, if you're unsure about how to safely complete this task hire a certified electrician. Clean the grout surrounding the shower area and replace older caulk with new bathroom-grade silicone caulk. Using a utility knife cut away old caulk from the surrounding surfaces. Clean the area of debris. Allow it to dry completely before applying new caulk. ### Sunday: Add Storage & Style Elements Add floating shelves, over-the-toilet storage cabinets or baskets to increase your bathroom's storage capabilities. Keep counters free of clutter as this tends to create a sense of openness in your space. Install a new shower curtain, purchase matching towels and select a simple bath mat.

Start savoring the best of every season in the comfort of your home with the Root & Bloom Indoor Herb Garden Starter Kit. This easy-to-use starter kit has been designed specifically for both foodie's who have always wanted to grow their own herbs, as well as those new to indoor herb gardens. The kit offers everything you will need to start growing the herbs of your choice including organic, non-GMO seeds (Curly Parsley, Genovese Basil, Cilantro, Thyme), coco-coir soil discs that contain the nutrients needed to promote healthy roots, and three premium, reusable pots that fit in most kitchens. In addition to providing all of these tools to get you started, our unique blend of coco-coir soil helps to increase oxygen flow to your roots while increasing water retention which results in rapid seed germination and strong root systems. Think about how great it would be to pick a handful of fresh basil leaves from your counter top herb garden at 5 pm Monday afternoon for your homemade margarita pizza, or add a small amount of thyme from your window sill herb garden to give your pasta dish an extra layer of flavor. Whatever your preference, now you can enjoy your favorite herbs all year long. Perfect for a sunny windowsill, apartment balcony, or kitchen island, the Root & Bloom Indoor Herb Garden Starter Kit brings a little bit of the outdoors in. Whether you are looking for a fun way to grow your own herbs, or want to make a special gift for someone who enjoys cooking or gardening, the Root & Bloom kit is a beautiful package and a wonderful way to help others bring some of the beauty of nature inside. Take your cooking to a whole new level and create your own countertop oasis today.

Urban Housing Affordability: An Analysis of the State of Research Affordable housing in urban settings has become an increasing problem faced by cities around the world. The increased population growth of metropolitan regions due to rapid urbanization, and resulting increase in housing prices compared to wages has created a housing affordability crisis (Wetzstein, 2017). This issue has widespread effects on both individuals and larger societal issues such as inequity, productive efficiency and urban sustainability. While the idea of affordable housing may seem simple at first, researchers have found that defining and measuring it is actually quite complex. Historically, researchers used percentage based ratios to determine if a house was affordable. For example, Stone states that a home is affordable when it uses less than 30% of a family's income toward mortgage payments (Stone, 2006). Critics argue however that this method does not take into consideration remaining disposable income after paying for housing, differences in the cost of living from region to region, and different characteristics of families (Hulchanski, 1995). In response to some of these criticisms, alternative methods for determining affordable housing are being researched. One such alternative includes the use of residual income models to analyze housing needs (Hulchanski, 1995), and another example involves using multi-dimensional affordability indexes which incorporate additional costs associated with transportation along with housing costs (Talen et al., 2009). In addition to the debate surrounding how to define and measure affordable housing, there is also a great deal of debate concerning the underlying causes of the decline in affordable housing options. Those who support supply side explanations cite restrictive zoning policies, time-consuming planning approval processes, and the failure to produce sufficient new homes as major contributors to rising housing costs (Glaeser & Gyourko, 2018). On the other hand, those who advocate for demand side or political economy explanations attribute rising housing costs to speculation, financialization of housing markets, rising income inequalities, and the growing perception of housing as an investment opportunity rather than a basic necessity (Aalbers, 2016; Rolnik, 2013). There are also many scholars who believe that demographic trends contribute to increasing pressure on the availability of affordable housing options. As stated previously, the purpose of this research project is to synthesize disparate views regarding why housing has become unaffordable. In order to accomplish this goal, this paper will review existing theory and evidence related to various aspects of affordable housing. These include the types of data collection methods utilized to measure housing affordability, possible explanations for the reasons behind decreasing levels of affordable housing, and previous public policy responses intended to improve access to affordable housing. Through the completion of this study, I hope to create a clear picture of where our field currently stands in regards to research on affordable housing, as well as create a greater awareness of the areas where future studies are necessary.

Industrial Design was one of those things, like a dream I had no idea existed until it became my reality. I have always been fascinated by how many people view products as simply things you can buy, when really they were created through someone's vision, creativity, and knowledge. The reason I am interested in studying Industrial Design is that I would love to be able to connect all three (human need, aesthetic appeal, and functionality) as an engineer. I am excited about the opportunity to take the skills and knowledge I gain from studying at your school to create solutions to problems that will benefit society. For me, Industrial Design is the ultimate solution to problems. Industrial designers use their ability to empathize with others to solve real-world problems. For example, when I worked on designing a desk organizer in a high school woodshop class, I learned that while something looks great aesthetically, it doesn't matter if it isn’t easy to use. Also, even though something is very functional and gets the job done, it is going to be forgotten quickly if it has no personality or charm. During this time I experimented with different ways of designing the angles of the parts of the desk organizer so that it would be comfortable to work with. In addition, I chose materials that were both functional and pleasing to touch. The entire experience — of transforming an abstract thought in my mind into a functional product — gave me a feeling of excitement. My primary motivation for pursuing a degree in Industrial Design is the environmental aspect of the field. Today we face the challenges of overconsumption and excessive waste. Therefore, as a future designer I plan to design products that are not only beneficial to users but also good for the planet. Specifically, I want to continue learning about circular design principles, explore new bioplastics and other biodegradable materials, and create products that are made to be used multiple times rather than disposable. Your school's emphasis on "hands-on" projects and "user-centered" design allows me to pursue my dreams and develop myself as a designer. At your school I will have access to state-of-the-art digital modeling software, workshops where I can test my designs physically, and students with whom I can collaborate on projects related to sustainability and social responsibility.

RUN YOUR FIRST 10K — WITH CONFIDENCE You don't have to be "a runner" to complete a 10k. All you really need is an effective plan, some good coaching, and a small amount of momentum. **StrideStart** is a SaaS training partner that will guide new runners from "one day I'll do it" to "I did it on race day" without burn out, confusion, or even guess work. Whatever your situation (you're brand new; you've been away for a while; you are progressing from your very first 5k), StrideStart gives you a customized 10k training plan based upon your time constraints, your level of fitness, and your objectives. Just tell us when you have your race; how many days per week you will be able to train; and where you are currently at in terms of running -- and we will create your path. ### Make Training for Your 10K Easy Don't download random pdf's anymore. Stop trying to determine whether you are overdoing it. StrideStart makes changes as you develop so each week you receive specific runs, rest days, pace guidelines, and timely reminder emails that encourage you to continue with your training program consistently. Track all of your workouts; document and celebrate your achievements along the way; and watch your endurance increase each week. The minute life gets hectic, your plan adjusts accordingly. So, missing one workout won't derail your entire racing season. ### For Newbie Runners Only StrideStart was created for everyday individuals who have real commitments. Each workout you complete has clear instructions; you get helpful suggestions regarding warming up before a run and recovering after a run; regular check-in messages encouraging you to keep going; and tips to prepare you for the start of your next race. From your initial slow jog through to your last run prior to your next race, StrideStart allows you to gradually build up your endurance safely and effectively. ### What You Will Receive - Customized 10k training programs - When life happens, adaptable scheduling - Tracking of all of your workouts along with achievement badges - Running pace and distance information - Helpful ideas for recovery and injury prevention - Tips about your upcoming race - Motivation to keep you active ### Begin With Strength. Finish With Pride. The first 10k you ever compete in is much more than a simple competition – it's evidence that you can accomplish difficult tasks. StrideStart provides support that allows you to train efficiently, maintain motivation, and successfully complete your race. Are you ready to join the ranks of 10K finishers? Begin your complimentary trial today and make the decision to begin on the path towards race day.

[your first & last name] [your area code + Phone #] [your Email address] [link to your LinkedIn Profile (or portfolio)] [current Date] [recipient's first & last name; e.g. "Search Committee" ] [name of City Government/Department; e.g. Office of policy and management ] [city hall street address ] [city, state zip ] **subject: Application for policy analyst position — [requisition # (if given)]** Mr./ms. [last name of hiring mgr. Or “selection committee”] , As a committed public policy professional who has lived in [city name] all my life, i wish to formally submit my Application for the policy analyst position within [department/local gov’t name]. A master’s degree in public policy and [Number]-years working with quantitative data and qualitative research provide me with the necessary skills to create innovative, equitable and data-driven policies that will positively affect the quality of life of each member of our diverse community. In my last position as a policy Associate for [Previous Employer/Organization name ], i worked on analyzing socio-economic data, creating data-driven municipal strategies. I am especially proud of my work in evaluating quantitatively an [policy issue; e.g. Affordable housing / public transit / sustainable development ] pilot program. Through using census data, interviewing stakeholders, and doing cost-benefits analyses, i wrote a comprehensive policy briefing document which increased the efficiency of the program by [percentage]% and was implemented by county officials. My time at this organization helped me develop and refine my ability to deal with bureaucracy and its many constraints while meeting extremely tight deadlines when engaging a variety of community groups and providing neutral, fact-based recommendations. the [specific city goal/initiative(s); e.g. the Climate Action Plan / increasing access to child care] that are currently being undertaken by the [city name] government represent areas where i would be very interested in contributing. In addition to having the technical skills and knowledge required for municipal policy-making, i believe that it is essential to have a commitment to both fairness/equity and fiscal accountability. I am quite familiar with [list 1–2 technical skills/tools; e.g. SPSS/R/GIS mapping / Excel ] and able to present large amounts of regulatory language in formats easily understandable by city council Members, department managers, and the general public. Thank you for considering my qualifications to assist in achieving some of the department’s strategic goals through utilizing my analytical background, collaborative nature, and my desire to serve my city. Thank you for taking the time to review my Application. Sincerely, [Signature] [printed name]

Hi, [Hiring Committee], As I write to express interest in the Policy Analyst position at City Government, I want you to know how excited I am about this job. As someone who has always been driven to analyze and solve problems through high-quality, evidence-driven decision making (and with a desire to provide the highest quality public service), I see this role as an incredible opportunity to combine these two passions to create positive, lasting change in our community. With my background in policy research; data analysis; stakeholder outreach/engagement; and written communications, I feel confident in my ability to help develop, implement, assess and improve all types of programs designed to meet the needs of our residents. I have previously used my analytical skills and knowledge base to develop policy briefs based on both qualitative and quantitative research; track changes in legislation and regulations; review and summarize academic and governmental literature; conduct stakeholder interviews; synthesize large amounts of information into clear, actionable recommendations for decision makers. Additionally, I am well-versed in using databases to find relevant information; creating informative and engaging presentations using PowerPoint or other software; summarizing large datasets into understandable charts/graphs/tables; and developing and maintaining relationships with a variety of stakeholders. While I am confident in my ability to assist in the evaluation of program success; identify areas where there may be gaps in existing services; and assess potential financial/social implications associated with implementing new policy options, I also recognize that all of these functions will need to be conducted while being mindful of various constraints including budgets, timelines, and community sentiment. I am particularly attracted to working for the city government because city governments are responsible for many aspects of the daily lives of their citizens. Areas such as affordable housing, transportation options/access, public safety, workforce development, climate resiliency, and ensuring that services are delivered equitably can greatly benefit from thoughtful analysis and collaboration among multiple departments/stakeholders/organizations. However, I also recognize that providing "technical" evidence for why something should happen cannot replace understanding the perspectives/views of the members of a particular community. Therefore, I am committed to finding ways to balance objective technical evidence with subjective community input when making decisions regarding policy initiatives. Strengths that I possess which would enable me to succeed in this type of role include: excellent writing/communication skills; extremely detailed oriented; able to clearly articulate technical concepts/policy ideas in non-technical language so they can be understood by anyone regardless of their level of education or profession. In addition to these abilities, I also appreciate the importance of collaborating with others. As a result, I have successfully collaborated with various levels of program staff/elected officials/non-profit organizations/community groups. When approaching this type of work, I do so with a sense of professional integrity, curiosity and genuine respect for those whose lives are impacted directly by the decisions made by government. Therefore, I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to utilize my analytical expertise combined with my passion for serving the public through contributions to the City's mission. Specifically, I believe that I could make a significant contribution to improving quality-of-life opportunities for all citizens; expanding opportunities for marginalized communities; and fostering greater trust between citizens/residents and local institutions/government agencies. Furthermore, I believe that my training/experience in research/analysis/communications would enable me to become productive members of your team immediately upon hire. Thank you again for considering my application. If selected for further review, I would be honored to discuss how my skills and experience align with your team's requirements and expectations for this Policy Analyst role. I look forward to the potential opportunity to serve the City's important mission. Best regards, [Your Name]

# your first 10k starts here ## there’s no more time to wonder if you’re prepared. It’s time to train as if you already were. Now that you’ve been running for a while, and the 5k no longer feels like a challenge – but what about the 10k? That is an unknown area and if you don’t do this right, you could end up burned out, injured, or worst yet show up to the 10k as completely unprepared. **RunReady10K** will eliminate all of the guessing work involved in developing your Training by creating customized Plans based upon where you are today, not some cookie cutter generic template found in a running magazine. ### built on where you currently exist Each runner does not begin at the exact same point. Whether you began with a Couch to 5k program or just started jogging casually for several months, **RunReady10K**’s intelligent Training algorithm generates a customized plan designed around your present level of physical conditioning, the number of Training days per Week you can dedicate and your desired 10k completion date; not just some generic template pulled from a running magazine. ### what you’ll receive **customized Training schedules** — based on how your actual runs go, the length and difficulty of each run will be adjusted weekly through **RunReady10K**, eliminating the risk of overtraining due to rigid adherence to a generic Training schedule. **Pace guidelines that make Sense** — we don't use confusing technical terms when describing your target paces. Instead we provide you with a clear description of what you should shoot for during your easy runs, tempo days and long runs in plain language. **prevention of injury is also included in your plan** — through our progressive increase in mileage, along with our recommended rest days, you'll never find yourself doing too much too quickly, which is the #1 cause of injury to first time 10k competitors. **countdown to Race Week** — after reaching the midpoint in your Training program, **RunReady10K** will assist you in properly tapering for your upcoming 10k, and also provide nutritional guidelines and advice regarding logistics of Race day, providing you with confidence as you step up to the starting line. **your Progress will be clear and visible** — our simple-to-use and motivating dashboards allow you to see your endurance improve Week after Week without needing to hold a ph.d. In exercise science. ### real runners. Real Results. More than 12,000 runners have successfully completed their first 10k using **RunReady10K** and crossing the finish line with confidence-not limping! --- ## begin your 10k journey today with only One click It’s time to stop searching google late into the night “how many miles a Week for a 10k” and sign up for a customized Training program that fits into your lifestyle, your body and your goals. **[free 7 day trial now available]** *no credit card required. Cancel anytime. Your finish line awaits.*

**National Concerns: Teenagers Are Spending Increasing Amounts of Time Viewing Screens That Has Been Correlated to an Increase in Depression and Anxiety in Adolescents.** A recent study has sparked an intense national dialogue regarding teen screen usage, identifying correlations between excessive time spent viewing screens (beyond academic related screen-time) and increased rates of anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances among America's youth. The *Healthy Minds Initiative*, which produced this study, reported that an average 12-17 year old will spend almost seven hours per day viewing screens outside of academic requirements. Furthermore, the study indicated that adolescents who utilize social media platforms for more than four hours per day are more than double the amount of adolescents who utilized screens for less than two hours when reporting symptoms associated with clinical depression. "The way our youth are developing ways to socially interact is profoundly changing their ability to develop psychologically," states Dr. Elena Vasquez, lead pediatrician on the study. "It’s not just what our youth are doing on their phone that is negatively affecting their psychological development; rather it is what our youth are not doing because of their increasing amounts of screen time. Screen time is replacing essential developmental building blocks such as face-to-face interactions, physical activity, and most importantly sleep." The study also identifies the negative effects of exposure to blue light and late night notification disruptions in adolescent sleep patterns. In fact, nearly seventy percent of all adolescents stated that they keep their smartphones within arm reach in their bedroom at night and wake-up frequently to view notifications. Research indicates chronic sleep disturbances can be directly linked to the onset of mood disorders. Moreover, there is concern from experts regarding the algorithm-based design of social media applications. Social media companies create features that increase user engagement; however, many times these features expose vulnerable adolescents to unrealistic lifestyles and cyber bullying behaviors resulting in adolescents feeling inadequate and isolated. To address the growing concerns regarding screen time and its effect on adolescents’ mental health, several schools systems across the country have banned cellphones while students are attending class ("bell-to-bell") and have reported immediate increases in positive student interactions and academic focus. Additionally, pediatricians are encouraging parents to designate areas in their homes as "screen free" including during mealtime and the hour prior to bed. "We do not need to completely eliminate technology from our lives," emphasizes Dr. Vasquez. "We simply need to educate our youth on digital literacy and establishing boundaries so they may learn how to responsibly utilize digital media and avoid allowing digital media from consuming their mental health.”

You should expect to receive the same answers you would from using other services, including but not limited to, ChatGPT, LLaMA, and Microsoft Bing. I'm happy to assist you. What's the first question? This service does not provide answers to questions. It only provides assistance and guidance based upon what you type. Please remember this service cannot be used for plagiarism. All responses will contain quotes from the provided text in order to ensure originality. What is your first question? When we answer a question here, we don't just "answer" the question. We take everything you typed and rewrite it so the new response sounds like something you could have written yourself. This ensures our responses sound natural, flow smoothly, and help you understand the information better. So when we say "the final answer is," it really means "this is where I'll stop writing." Your job is to pick out key points from the response (which we hope is both accurate and readable) and use those points to write your own conclusion. That way, you've got the benefit of knowing how to answer the question, plus an opportunity to express your thoughts clearly. Sound good? Let me know when you're ready to begin. The purpose of this service is to guide you through your research process. Our role is to act as a sounding board, a mentor, and a helper. We will never complete your assignments for you; instead, we encourage students to take ownership of their learning by asking us questions and thinking critically about the information we provide. Here's what that looks like: * Instead of simply answering your questions, I will ask follow-up questions designed to help clarify things. * Rather than providing you with a step-by-step solution, I will walk you through each step as needed. * When you ask me to explain something, I will respond with examples or analogies that help illustrate the concept. By working together in this way, I am confident that we can accomplish far more than I ever could alone. So please feel free to reach out whenever you need help — whether it's with understanding a difficult concept or finding credible sources for your paper. I look forward to assisting you! Let's get started with your assignment. Please share the prompt with me along with any specific requirements or guidelines your instructor has given. I want to make sure I meet all of your needs before we proceed.

Subject: expanded paid parental leave to 20 weeks Hello team, I am writing to announce another expansion of our company's benefit package. Effective today, we are adding additional paid parental leave to our company-wide benefits. All employees (birth parent, non-birth parent, adoptive, foster, surrogate) are now eligible for 20 weeks of paid leave when they welcome a new baby or begin caring for children through adoption or surrogacy. Our company believes that all families deserve the time needed to transition into parenting and develop their relationship with their child. Therefore, we are committed to supporting all eligible parents and families as they navigate these significant life events by providing a comprehensive paid leave program that supports them both professionally and personally. All employees currently on parental leave; those planning to be on parental leave; and/or all employees needing information regarding the expanded paid parental leave eligibility and process should contact HR directly. In addition, HR will provide further details of the updated policies (including procedures for requesting parental leave, documentation requirements, continued payment while on leave, and the coordination of any state, federal, or local leaves), which may apply. Additionally, managers should assist your teams in coordinating staffing needs, facilitate seamless transitions within the team while employees are on leave and ensure that employees have the opportunity to completely disconnect from work-related responsibilities while they are on leave. Thank you again for all that you do to create a work environment that is both supportive and inclusive of all employees. We are excited to take this next step and look forward to continuing to identify opportunities to enhance the benefits and resources provided to all team members. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at HR. Sincerely, [your name]

**Low Light Apartment Plant Tips #1 – 10** We've all seen those beautiful Instagram posts of lush, tropical spaces that seem impossible to replicate indoors due to lack of sunlight. Yet, this shouldn't stop you from having your own mini jungle. The following 10 easy-to-implement ideas will assist you in growing happy houseplants even when you're living in an apartment with very little natural light. ### 1. Choose Low-Light Plants There's no need to bring home a cactus if your home is dark most of the time. Use plants which do better in low light. Examples include snake plants, pothos, cast-iron plants, and ZZ plants. They love being left alone in shady spots. ### 2. Water Less Frequently Since your plants receive less sunlight, they will also need to drink their water less frequently. To determine whether your plants require a drink, insert a finger two inches deep into the soil. If the soil feels wet, wait until it has dried slightly before watering again. Remember, overwatered low-light plants will likely die. ### 3. Wipe Down Those Leaves When plants are receiving low amounts of light, it becomes necessary for them to use what little light they can get. A dusty leaf acts as a barrier to light absorption by the plant. Each couple of weeks gently remove dust using a damp cloth. This allows your plants to photosynthesize normally. ### 4. Place Mirrors Wisely You can increase the amount of light entering your space by placing mirrors across from your windows. These mirrors bounce the available light around the room allowing additional areas of your space to receive some benefit from the minimal lighting present. ### 5. Remove Dead/Dying Leaves A dead/dying leaf takes a lot of energy from a plant. When a leaf changes color to yellow or brown, remove it. Allow your plant to allocate its limited resources to the healthy leaves. ### 6. Rotate for Symmetry Plants may develop uneven growth patterns by stretching towards any available light. Every week give each pot a 90-degree turn so they develop evenly throughout. ### 7. Choose Light Colors Choose white or lighter colored paint for walls and furniture to create a brighter atmosphere. In addition, choose white or pastel-colored planters/pots. Both types of surfaces allow reflected light to illuminate darker areas of your home. ### 8. Add Artificial Lighting If you cannot provide adequate natural lighting for your plants, you now have options beyond expensive commercial artificial lighting systems. Today you can purchase fashionable and modern LED grow bulbs that fit into existing table lamps. Your plants will have no idea where their supplemental lighting came from! ### 9. Reduce Fertilizing Frequency In comparison to plants grown outdoors in full-sun conditions, indoor plants typically grow significantly slower and thus require fewer nutrients. As such, reduce fertilizer frequency to once or twice per year (spring/summer) and eliminate fertilization altogether in the winter months. ### 10. Grow More Than One! Although aesthetically pleasing, grouping multiple plants together does something else beneficial for your plants. Indoor humidity levels are increased due to the transpiration process of plants releasing moisture through the stomata located on the underside of their leaves. By clustering several potted plants near each other, you’ll create an environment conducive to healthier-looking plants with fewer brown leaves.

: Create fresh flavors in your kitchen at any time of the year using an Indoor Herb Garden Starter Kit. This is a fun, stylish, self-contained unit that allows you to easily create a "mini" herb garden anywhere in your home. It's perfect for new and experienced cooks alike and comes complete with everything needed to create a healthy mini-garden on your windowsill, countertop, or even outside apartment balcony. You'll receive high-quality herb seeds (basil, parsley, cilantro, chives, thyme), biodegradable pots, nutrient-rich soil discs, plant labels, and step-by-step instructions. Harvest what you need for soups, salads, sauces, teas and garnishes. This starter kit was designed for small space use and will fit comfortably on most interior lighted surfaces. No mess or clutter. The biodegradable pots are easy to transplant when desired. Each label helps you keep track of which type of herb is growing. If you want to add some greenery to your home or want to provide a unique gift for someone who loves to cook, this kit can do both. With minimal watering and sunlight requirements, this kit will transform every day cooking into a fresh experience — right in your home.

# Ten ways to cultivate houseplants when the lighting in your apartment is extremely low You want to become a "Plant Person", however your apartment receives minimal to no direct sunlight. Do not fret. There are many methods to make use of a variety of plants in an environment with limited sunlight. Below are ten ideas. **1. Remove full-sun plants from consideration** The beautiful cactus at Trader Joe’s? It’ll probably take its sweet time dying in your North facing room. Help yourself feel better about killing a plant. Never purchase anything described as “Full Sun” or “Bright Light”. **2. Get familiarized with Pothos** Pothos is a good example of what would be called a “Low-Light Plant.” Pothos grows well under very low light. Its vines also trail beautifully, and can create an attractive display on a shelf filled with books. If you’re afraid of possibly harming one of your first plants, start with this one! **3. Snake Plants Are Indestructible… Seriously** Snake Plants are among the most hard-to-kill types of houseplants. Neglect is not something snake plants have trouble with. They can tolerate low levels of light; infrequent watering; and even having forgotten that you own a snake plant for a few weeks. Snake plants are excellent options for beginners or people who consistently harm their plants. **4. ZZ Plants Deserve More Hype** ZZ plants have glossy leaves; interesting shapes; and can survive without natural light in your home. In other words, the ZZ plant is evidence that "low-maintenance" does not necessarily imply boring. **5. Water Less Than You Think** In comparison to plants grown in areas receiving plenty of natural sunlight, plants grown in lower amounts of sunlight require fewer waters. Over-watering is the leading cause of death for low-light plants. Wait until the soil feels dry before giving your plants another drink. **6. Every Few Weeks, Turn Your Plants Around** Although low-light plants do not have much energy, they do grow towards any light source available. Periodically give your plants a 90-degree rotation to prevent uneven and awkwardly-shaped plants. **7. If Necessary Use Grow Lights (No Shame in Using Them)** If your apartment resembles a cave, then an inexpensive LED grow light may provide some supplemental light where natural light cannot. **8. Dust Off Those Leaves** Dust prevents your plants from absorbing the available amount of light they receive. Once a month, lightly dust each leaf using a damp cloth. **9. Clustering Plants Near Your Best Window Is Better Than Spreading Them Out** It is always worth utilizing the light provided by your windows — regardless of whether that is not considered bright by normal plant standards. Instead of spreading out your plants throughout your poorly lit space, cluster your plants together near the window where they get the most light. **10. Understand What to Expect From Low-Light Plants** Low-light plants will naturally grow at a slower rate than high-light plants. Science dictates this fact, and it has nothing to do with you performing poorly. As long as you stay calm, enjoy the process, and resist comparing your progress with others who utilize large quantities of direct sunlight through the windows in their greenhouses, you will be fine.

# Weekend Bathroom Makeover Guide You may have some work ahead of you but, you can definitely get a lot done in that 48 hour period if you focus solely on cosmetics, i.e., don’t touch anything structurally. That’s why we created this guide. ## Friday Evening: Demolish and Prepare Remove EVERYTHING from the bathroom – towels, rugs, decorations, etc. Also, make sure the water supply lines are shut-off before making ANY replacements. Use a caulk remover (or an old utility knife) to remove the old caulk from the areas surrounding the tub, sink and toilet. If you’re planning on updating any of your hardware such as towel racks, cabinet pulls and/or lighting fixtures, take them out now. Now would be a great time to give ALL surfaces a thorough cleaning because dirt/grit will prevent paint and caulk from adhering properly. ## Saturday AM: Paint & Primer Use a high-quality paint product specifically designed for use in bathrooms that has low VOCs and comes in either semi-gloss or satin finish. Put up painter’s tape along the edges of all trim, outlet covers, etc. so they won’t be damaged during the painting process. It’s also a good idea to apply primer to those areas where there are current dark colors/stains present. Then apply two layers of your chosen color paint and allow enough time for it to dry completely between each layer. This would be a great opportunity to spray paint or upgrade outdated fixtures (such as your faucet or light fixture) since you probably aren’t going to do a total plumbing replacement job. ## Saturday PM: Flooring & Fixtures This is the perfect chance to put down peel-and-stick vinyl tile or install a click-lock floating floor. Since these types of products don’t need drying time, you’ll be able to instantly see what kind of dramatic impact they’ll have on the room. Start at the area of the floor that you think is the most visible and start putting down your new floor. Once you’ve completed laying the floor, go ahead and reinstall/reattach your toilet, reconnect your sink, and if you bought a pre-fabricated vanity, attach it to the wall according to manufacturer directions. ## Sat. Evening: Hardware & Accessories Replace towel racks, toilet paper holders and cabinet knobs/controls. Attach a new mirror (if you want to) or simply replace the existing one’s frame with decorative molding (you can even paint it to blend with your new color scheme). Seal all gaps between the tub, sink and toilet with fresh caulk using a caulk gun and smoothing with a damp finger or a caulk tool. ## Sun.: Final Touches Double check that all plumbing is connected and working correctly. Give your newly renovated bathroom a good cleaning removing dust/debris from both the painting/sanding process. Reconnect your new shower curtain/bath mat/towel set and voila’! You’ve got yourself a totally “new” bathroom! ## Pro Tips - Cosmetic Changes Only – Don’t Even Think About Moving Plumbing/Electrical! - Get All Materials Beforehand To Avoid Mid Project Delays - Work In Well Ventilated Areas When Painting And Using Adhesives

**Subject: Important Update to Our Parental Leave Policy** Hello Team, I am excited to pass along some very positive information. Beginning [the effective date] we will expand our current parental leave policy to provide **fully paid leave for twenty weeks to all employees**; this includes leave based upon birth, adoption, surrogacy or other methods of becoming a parent. The updated policy reflects our continued commitment to providing support to our employees during those significant events in their lives. All of our employees, including but not limited to mothers, fathers, adoptive parents and surrogate parents will receive more than enough time to spend bonding with their children while minimizing financial stress and professional obligations. **Summary Information:** - Twenty weeks of fully paid parental leave. - This leave is provided to all full-time employees commencing on the first eligible day after the employee has completed their probationary period (See policy document). - Employees may choose to take their leave at any time during the twelve-months following the child's birth or placement. - Flexible scheduling is allowed. Employees may elect to take continuous leave or may take leave in increments as they deem necessary. By offering employees additional flexibility and support in balancing their personal and professional lives, we intend to demonstrate our dedication to caring for each and every employee. Studies have repeatedly shown that generous parental leave policies result in improved family outcomes, increased loyalty and retention among employees, and ultimately create a healthier and more productive workforce. We seek to establish ourselves as a model employer that allows its employees to flourish in both their professional careers and personal lives. If you would like to review the complete details regarding the expanded policy please click on the link located at [insert location]. If you should have any questions regarding this matter, please do not hesitate to contact the Human Resource Department. In addition, we will be conducting an optional Q & A session on [insert date] at which time we will be reviewing all aspects of the new policy and addressing any specific concerns you may have. Thank you for your ongoing contributions to our company. I am grateful that we are able to extend these benefits to our employees and I trust that this will positively impact you and your family. Best regards, [Your Name]

**how to do a small bathroom makeover over a weekend** A makeover of a small bathroom does not have to take weeks. You can do it in 48 hours with a solid plan, a specific budget and some focus. Here is your guide to planning a successful weekend renovation of a small bathroom. ### **the pre-work (do this before Friday)** There is no substitute for good prep work. Get all the supplies you will need at least several weeks ahead of time — paint, fixtures, vanity and hardware. Double-check that each item was received without damage. Collect all your tools before Saturday Morning: drill; adjustable wrench; caulk gun; painter’s tape; safety equipment. --- ### **Saturday: demolish and set up base Layers** * **Morning: eliminate the old (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)** Shutoff the water supply to the bathroom. Take off the existing mirror hardware and vanity. Drain and remove the old toilet by removing the floor bolts holding it to the flange. Stuff an old cloth into the hole left when you removed the toilet to prevent sewer gas fumes from rising into the rest of the house. Dispose of as much trash as possible throughout the day so that you can maintain your working area clean. * **Afternoon: prepare and paint (1:00 PM – 5:00 PM)** Fill any holes in the drywall where you cut access to the plumbing with fast-setting spackling compound. Sand until they are smooth and wipe clean. Use painter's tape along the edges of the baseboards to protect them. Since most small bathrooms don't get lots of natural light, painting your walls with a light-colored, moisture-resistant, semi-gloss finish (such as soft white or pale gray) will instantly give the impression of twice as many square feet. After waiting two hours to allow for drying, put on a second coat. * **Evening: put together the vanity (6:00 pm – 9:00 PM)** Assemble your new vanity. Place it against the wall to ensure it is level. Secure the vanity to the wall studs. Connect the faucet to the vanity sink *before* attaching it to the cabinetry — it is less difficult to connect this fixture while it is upside-down under the counter instead of after you attach it to the cabinet. Once installed, use silicone sealant to secure the sink top. --- ### **Sunday: plumbing and finishing touches** * **Morning: connectings and the Throne (9:00 AM – 1:00 PM)** Attach the water supply lines to the new vanity and attach the p-trap. Next, place your new toilet (or reattach your old one) using a new wax gasket. When tightening the nuts, be careful not to crack the porcelain. Turn the main valve back on and check every connection thoroughly for leaks. * **Afternoon: the Details (2:00 PM – 6:00 PM)** Hang your new oversized mirror -- ideally one that bounces plenty of light around the room. Update your bathroom lighting fixtures (remember to turn off the power switch first). Update your towel bar(s), toilet paper holder, and cabinet knobs/handles with modern, matching hardware (matte black or brushed brass look great in almost any decor). * **Evening: cleaning and decorating** Remove old caulking from your bathtub and apply new clean caulk. Put down a plush bath mat, hang fresh towels, and add a small potted plant.

Screen Time & Adolescent Mental Health: A Growing Body of Evidence Reveal a More Nuanced Relationship Than Earlier Alarmist Headlines Indicated – But Concerns Remain High Growing numbers of new evidence-based research studies from leading public health researchers indicate that there may be a more complex relationship between adolescent screen time and mental health than were indicated by many earlier headlines based upon early alarmist data. Studies completed on adolescents (age 13-17) found that excessive social media use — specifically those platforms which rely heavily on the sharing of images, comparisons, etc., tend to be linked to higher levels of both anxiety and depression; and, body image issues, including, but not limited to eating disorders — again, primarily in female adolescents. While it would be simplistic to say "it's just hours spent" staring at an electronic screen that are problematic, noted Dr. Elena Vasquez, developmental psychologist studying the effects of digital media on youth, “what really matters most is what type of engagement.” She continued, “the passive scrolling through highly edited content seems to produce poor results for youth compared to actively communicating with friends or creating content.” Dr. Vasquez’s comments support the recent 2023 U.S. Surgeon General Advisory regarding social media as a possible contributing factor to the current youth mental health crisis. The advisory recommended additional study of the relationship between social media use and youth mental health while encouraging social media technology companies to develop strong protections for their youngest users. Following the surgeon general’s call to action several state legislatures have taken steps toward addressing the issue. Utah, Arkansas and Louisiana have each enacted laws which require age verification for minors and obtain parental approval before allowing them access to social media sites. Other states are considering taking more drastic measures such as prohibiting students from using phones in school. In addition to the aforementioned three states and some other states where similar bills have been introduced, Florida has become the first state to ban social media accounts for children under 14 years old. Some critics of restricting screen time claim that overly broad messaging could lead to focusing too much on the symptoms rather than the root causes of teen mental health problems — such as academic pressures, family dynamic stressors, socio-economic stresses, etc. Additionally, some researchers warn against assuming that all screen time is created equal and instead encourage educators to recognize and teach about different forms of screen use — i.e., video calls to remote family members or educational apps versus endless scrolling through social media. Many schools across the country are attempting their own solutions. School districts in California, New York and Texas have implemented complete bans on cell phones within classrooms — reporting positive anecdotal evidence of improved focus and peer interaction among students. Experts who work directly with mental health advocacy efforts continue to emphasize that effective solutions will likely involve multiple strategies. Said Marcus Chen, executive director of a non-profit organization focused on promoting healthy digital practices among youth: "we need better digital literacy training for families and teachers; we need greater parental involvement and accountability from social media platforms." He emphasized that "banning devices outright will not resolve the underlying reasons why teens are turning to screens so frequently — often times out of boredom or loneliness." While research is ongoing, experts agree that developing healthy habits during adolescence — a critical period for brain development — can have long lasting impacts on future overall well-being.