Walter Writes outputs

** **title: make your backyard your own personal grocery store without any stress.** **subtitle: introducing SproutPlan – a new type of smart gardening system that will tell you exactly *what* you should be planting, *where* you should be planting those vegetables and *how much* water they need; all based specifically on your unique climate conditions. *** Are you tired of having dead plants and spending your entire weekends trying to figure out how to grow a simple vegetable garden? Gardening doesn’t have to be rocket science. It's time to make growing your own healthy, fresh produce easy again. SproutPlan removes all of the guess work so you can enjoy the bounty of your very first harvest this season. **sprout plan features.** * **easy-to-use custom garden Layouts:** simply enter your yard size and sun exposure. Then our sophisticated computer algorithms place the best varieties of companion plants together -- such as basil next to tomatoes -- which allows them to naturally repel each other's predators and increase the total amount of produce that you'll get off your property. * **planting calendar based on hyper local weather data:** while frost dates can vary by as many as 6 weeks from one side of town to another, SproutPlan gets real-time weather data from your local weather station. Once we determine that it's finally going to be just the right weekend to put in your seeds or transplants, SproutPlan sends you a notification with instructions on when to put them in. * **smart daily yard care tasks:** stop getting general information about taking care of your yard. Instead receive a daily list of tasks specific to your yard and the types of vegetables that you're growing. Examples include “water your lettuce before it dries out,” or “today is the perfect time to prune back some of those tomato suckers.” *** “last year i killed three tomato plants. So far This year, my family has not purchased any pre-cut salad greens since mid-april. SproutPlan makes it completely idiot-proof.” — elena r. – newbie gardener *** **your fresh produce is only one click away.** Quit searching online for conflicting information and begin using a tool that actually helps you manage your yard. SproutPlan provides users with step-by-step guidance every single day starting at planting and ending at harvesting and everything in-between. Reduce your grocery bill, eat better quality foods and develop a new hobby that you'll absolutely love. *[try out SproutPlan today for free for 14 days.]* *we don't want to charge you anything until after you try us out. We support planting zones 3-11.* **

This is the best way to upgrade your work, with the most accurate measuring tool available: our precision-milled stainless steel ruler. Designed for professional craftsmen, who will never settle for anything less than the very best; this tool fills the gap between the long lasting nature of workshop tools, and the extremely high level of precision required by many craftsman. Our rulers are made from top quality tempered stainless steel which gives them the strength needed to withstand the constant wear and tear that comes with daily use. The edges of our rulers have been cnc milled to precise specifications. These sharp, straight lines make it easy to draft, scribe, and measure accurately when using precision cutters. While other lower-quality, stamped rulers can wear down their markings through normal use, we have used an ultra-fine laser etching process to create both our imperial and metric gradations as deep into the surface of the ruler so they remain clear throughout its entire life. To further enhance the usability of these markings we have also applied a glare resistant satin chrome finish. This finish ensures easy-to-read measurements under even the brightest lighting conditions (studio lights or direct sunlight). In addition to being able to take flush, butt-joint measurements against vertical surfaces with our true-zero edge, we have also added a substantial amount of weight to each ruler. This additional weight allows our ruler to provide a solid platform on all types of surfaces including wood, paper, fabric or metal. This additional stability prevents our ruler from slipping during measurement, allowing you to maintain your concentration while taking your measurements. Regardless if you are an architect creating detailed blue prints, a woodworker detailing intricate joinery, or an engineer checking tolerances; our rulers offer uncompromised reliability. Make your workspace better with a tool that will last forever. Measure with absolute confidence

# create a vegetable garden, one small step at a time It is easy to create a vegetable garden regardless of if you have a large yard, are a good gardener, or have many gardening resources. **SproutPlan** will convert a sunny area in your yard into a manageable vegetable garden. Simply tell us your zip code, how much yard space you have, and which vegetables you would like to Grow. SproutPlan creates a customized garden design (layout) based on where you live (climate), vegetables to Grow, and a weekly-to-do list. This way you know exactly when to plant, water, and do other tasks without having to guess. ## a plan that works for your lifestyle **use the space you have.** even a small bed, several pots, or a narrow strip by your fence can be used. **have timely reminders.** help remind you when it's time to plant, water, and pick your vegetables, even during those times when things get hectic. **Grow with confidence.** instructions clearly explain every task in simple terms so that you build confidence with your growing plants. **create room for what matters.** pick the vegetables your family likes, then modify your plan as you find out what is working well. Don't worry about making mistakes in your first year. It may be that some veggies do better than others. Maybe discovering a few minutes of peace after work in your garden is your new happy place. SproutPlan allows you to start planning your garden with reasonable expectations and gives you the ability to continue one manageable task at a time. Don't look forward to creating an overly complex spreadsheet. Don't wonder if you missed the planting season. Use SproutPlan to guide you through the process from starting an empty spot of land to picking the fruits of your labor. Are you ready to find out what your backyard can Grow? **create your free garden design** today and begin building your path to home grown vegetables, just outside your backdoor. Explore your design prior to purchasing seeds or digging holes and begin as soon as you are ready. Your garden journey begins with providing us with a couple pieces of information and your curiosity about what is possible.

Community's must not consider public art and public works as rivaling each other by default. Roadways, water systems, sidewalks, and transit provide citizens with a means to get around safely and connect with one another; public art provides the means to make these public areas, where we all share space, more inviting, memorable, and reflective of the individuals using the area. The challenge is how to pay for both types of public goods without making residents have to pick between having a working water main and a mural in the same general vicinity. Repair needs for essential services are the priority. No city should put off repairing a hazardous bridge to place a statue on a street corner. However "infrastructure first" does not have to be synonymous with "no art." Cities can reserve a small, transparent percentage of their capital project budget for art in cases where they are building new public spaces such as at a bus stop or subway station. For instance, the local artist can design the tile work which will be installed during construction of the station. The decisions made regarding how to allocate funds should represent the interests of local citizens and not simply the interests of government officials or large contributors. Citizens can participate in the decision-making process through town hall meetings, survey participation, and hiring artists from the local community to receive compensation for providing input into what types of public art would be valuable to the community. Additionally, cities should also develop policies to ensure there is sufficient money allocated to maintain public art after it has been placed in a public area. Neglected public art (such as neglected public works) can quickly turn into an eyesore and cost additional monies for maintenance. Cities can also assess their overall spending patterns over time. Are basic service delivery levels increasing? Is the public art being provided to under-served populations? Are the projects developed for public art resulting in jobs for local artists and increased usage of public spaces? Assessments of this nature allow cities to modify their funding allocations based on their current performance as opposed to defending a predetermined formula.

A precision-built ruler provides the exactness needed on every measured line and made by precision milled stainless steel it offers a reliable, straight edge for use in layout, drafting, and workshop operations. Constructed of metal, the ruler also has a solid feel to it while providing the reliability needed as a tool that can be used repeatedly. The ruler may be used for marking a cut line, checking a dimension, using as a guide for a pencil, and ensuring a drawing remains aligned. With its slim profile allowing it to sit directly against the surface, it allows you to position the ruler exactly where needed while still being able to view what lies beneath your hand. This tool can be placed on a desk, work bench, or in a project kit and provide a straightforward function; helping you create with accuracy. This precision ruler was created for makers, designers, students, and anyone else looking to produce clean lines. It works in conjunction with many other tools such as pencils, knives, and notebooks. Regardless if creating a detailed project or simply making a fast measurement this ruler’s accurate edge allows you to confidently progress through each stage of creation. Place the ruler near-by so you always have access to those important measurements and straight lines that will ultimately make all the difference throughout the course of your projects.

Introduction: The Study of Small-Scale Regenerative Agriculture as Described in the Literature Over the course of the last hundred years, industrial agriculture has been able to generate impressive increases in the quantity of food produced, yet unfortunately, these increases have come at an environmental cost. Soil degradation through erosion, organic matter loss in soils, declines in biodiversity, contaminates fresh water sources, and contributes to greenhouse gases have all resulted in efforts by both researchers and practitioners to develop alternative ways of producing food. One model being developed includes the use of regenerative agriculture. In addition to reducing negative impacts associated with agriculture, regenerative agriculture is intended to help restore ecosystems that were previously degraded. The literature is beginning to focus on how small-scale farming can implement regenerative practices. As described above, however, there is currently limited data available. There is no one universally accepted definition of regenerative agriculture. Researchers describe regenerative agriculture as a series of agricultural practices focused on restoring ecosystem services including soil health, biodiversity, and water cycling while increasing the overall resilience of farms. Practices commonly referred to as "regenerative" include cover crops, reduced or zero tillage practices, diversified crop rotations, using compost materials, integrating trees into farming operations (agroforestry) and managing pasture through rotational grazing. There is some disagreement among scholars about the terminology, with some suggesting that "regenerative" may become too loosely defined as a label used by farmers to promote their products rather than a scientifically based approach to measuring ecological outcomes (Giller et al., 2021). The need for objective analysis of the subject area becomes even more important when considering the potential applications of "regenerative." Small-scale farming systems represent a unique subset of the broader regenerative discussion. While many smallholder farms in the Global South continue to provide a large percentage of global food supplies (Lowder et al., 2016), and are likely to continue doing so for the foreseeable future, small-scale producers are already using diverse management techniques (such as polyculture and intensive labor) that closely match those advocated for under regenerative. Proponents suggest that small-scale producers will be better equipped to adapt to new approaches because of their ability to observe their local environment closely and incorporate traditional knowledge related to the natural environment. At the same time, small-scale producers also experience many challenges that could affect their ability to adopt regenerative practices or maintain their economic viability during times of transition. These include financial limitations, insecurity regarding land ownership/tenure, limited opportunities for accessing markets, and higher labor requirements. This paper provides a synthesis of current scientific understanding of small-scale regenerative agriculture across three themes: ecological results, social/economic aspects, and impediments to adoption. First, we examined the extent to which small-scale regenerative agriculture is capable of providing ecological benefits related to carbon sequestered in soils, biodiversity, and yields. Second, we considered the economic viability of small-scale regenerative agriculture through examining profitability, livelihoods, and knowledge networks formed within communities. Third, we assessed institutional and structural influences affecting the implementation of regenerative practices. Through evaluating existing research on small-scale regenerative agriculture, this study identifies several limitations related to methodology and future research needs – particularly, few long-term studies exist specifically designed to examine the effects of adopting regenerative practices at various scales.

Although there exists no universal definition of “regenerative,” this study will focus on small scale regenerative agricultural strategies and their application at the level of individual family farms. The term generally refers to an environmental management system that places emphasis on soil quality, biodiversity, nutrient cycling, and reducing reliance on external inputs. Composting, cover cropping, crop rotation, agroforestry, conservation tillage (reduced tilling), and when feasible, integrating livestock into the operation are some examples of common practices associated with regenerative agriculture. At the farm level, the implementation of these environmental management strategies are influenced by factors such as limited availability of land and capital, household labor availability, local ecological knowledge, and market opportunities. Therefore, any literature review focused on evaluating the potential of regenerative agriculture to be used as a tool for improving soil and water resources must consider both the physical environment aspects of the strategy as well as its social and economic implications. A number of previous studies have emphasized the positive effects that implementing various sustainable agricultural practices can have upon the structure of soils, levels of organic matter within soils, numbers of beneficial organisms within soils, and overall resilience to climatic extremes. Additionally, diversified agricultural production systems can provide farmers with multiple means to generate income beyond the sale of commodities through the sale of value-added products derived from those commodities. However, the degree to which these benefits occur can vary significantly based upon numerous variables including but not limited to climate characteristics, existing soil conditions, the historical development of the farming operation, combinations of practices employed, and sufficient time for ecological processes to recover. In addition, because many of the results obtained from larger-scale commercial operations may not be applicable to smaller-scale farming operations due to differing resource bases and/or regulatory environments. In addition to demonstrating how certain challenges related to transitioning to sustainable agricultural systems can limit the adoption of such practices among farmers, previous studies have identified several critical barriers to adopting regenerative agriculture. Among the key barriers to transition were costs; new skills and training requirements; labor needs; and new equipment needed to implement sustainable practices. Because the transition period during which benefits begin to materialize is typically long, barriers to adopting sustainable agriculture can be especially problematic for small-scale farmers who operate under tight financial margins. In addition to providing sufficient time for ecological processes to recover after initial investment in sustainable practices, successful transitions also depend on favorable policy environments; adequate extension service support; affordable access to credit; and buyers who are willing to purchase unique or seasonally produced products. These types of favorable conditions are especially relevant for small-scale farming systems where failure to achieve a successful harvest can result in significant consequences for household-level livelihoods. However, despite widespread interest in using regenerative agriculture as a means to mitigate climate change impacts and promote sustainability within agricultural systems, the concept of regeneration is still being debated. There are differences in definitions of regeneration; studies employing varying measures of success (e.g., soil carbon and yield increases vs. biodiversity improvements); and claims regarding climate mitigation and/or increased productivity rely heavily upon data collected from specific baselines, measurement periods, and trade-off analyses. This review examines current evidence related to all three areas of concern (ecological outcomes; farm viability; and the relationships between them) to identify the state-of-knowledge regarding small-scale regenerative agriculture.

Dear Hiring Manager, I'm very interested in applying for the freelance documentary editor role. I like creating true-to-life stories into films that feel authentic, compelling, and will linger long after they end. This project presents the opportunity to do what I enjoy most as an editor: identify the emotional flow within large amounts of footage and produce a narrative that honors the subjects in front of the camera and those viewing them. I begin by listening. Prior to making significant edits, I take time to review all footage, interviews, and production documentation to get a sense of what each contributor is stating and possibly what lies just below the surface. Once I have a solid foundation, I search for a structural framework which provides momentum to the story without trying to force it into a format it doesn't fit. My focus includes pacing, transition, and relationships between dialogue, imagery, and sound; however, I always remain focused on the core question of the film. As a freelancer, I've learned to work collaboratively (with others) and independently. I appreciate thought-provoking input regarding editorial decisions and communicate effectively during revisions and final delivery. I feel confident communicating with directors/producers, testing new ideas or alternatives to consider: altering an opening, streamlining an interview segment, or developing a more fitting conclusion. At times, I recognize when it's best to step aside from a creative decision, provide an alternate viewpoint, and allow the strongest elements of the material room to breathe. The appeal of documentary editing comes down to balancing technical craftsmanship and responsibility. An excellent cut can develop tension, clarity, emotion — yet should never sacrifice the identity of the real individuals depicted on-screen. In building rapport with fellow collaborators, I intend to honor their trust by treating sensitive subject matter sensitively, raising concerns/queries at the earliest possible juncture, and being open-minded in terms of nuances. When a story takes an unexpected turn in the editing process, rather than seeing it as a negative development; I perceive it as an opportunity to discover what the material itself is revealing. I would bring enthusiasm (and dedication), along with patience and an acute awareness of storytelling elements to this project. I can integrate myself into your workflow, adhere to an efficient editing schedule, and provide clear versions of the edited material so the team can make informed decisions quickly. Regardless if the task requires a rough cut, fine cut, or targeted sequence-specific work; I would be happy to assist in bringing this documentary to its full potential. Thank you for reviewing my application. If given the opportunity, I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to speak with you further concerning your project and editorial objectives — as well as how I might be able to join forces with your team. Best Regards, [Your Name]

Writing and illustrating your own children's picture book can be the most rewarding writing experience you'll ever have. Because when you're both the writer and artist, you've got all the control. Here's how to bring your dream to life. ### 1. Learn About the Typical Picture Book Format The typical format for a picture book is 32 pages. Before you start drawing pictures, put your story on a 32-page "dummy," which is a mockup of what your book will look like. Keep in mind that the pictures shouldn't just show what the text says—your pictures should enhance the text. A good rule of thumb is to keep your stories short enough to fit under 500 words for younger readers. ### 2. Draw/Draw Pictures! After you've finalized your dummy, it's time to draw your actual pictures. The consistency of your drawings is very important. For example, make sure your main character looks exactly the same in every single illustration. If you use traditional methods (such as watercolor or gouache) make sure to scan them at a high resolution (at least 300 dpi to 600 dpi). If you use digital means (such as Procreate or Photoshop) make sure you work in the CMYK color mode so the colors on your computer screen will match the colors in the printed book. Also, include a .125 inch "bleed" area around each illustration so that nothing essential gets cropped in production. ### 3. Decide How to Publish You have two options: * **Traditionally Published:** First research some literary agents and art directors that traditionally publish books called "picture books." Then, establish a professional web-based portfolio, produce a PDF of your dummy book, and write a query letter. If one of these publishers accepts your project, they handle the printing, distribution and marketing of your book, while paying you an advance and royalties. * **Self-Published (Indie):** You get to maintain total ownership and control of your speed-to-market. To do this you can use POD (Print On Demand) services such as **Amazon KDP**, which allows you to sell paperback copies worldwide, and **Ingram Spark,** which enables you to distribute your quality hardcover books directly into major bookstores. Additionally, since you own your work outright, you don't need to buy ISBNs through Bowker in the U.S., unless you want wider distribution than Amazon has available.

**Introduction** The current state of the world with its numerous global crises – rising levels of climate change, collapsing biodiversity, and declining quality of soils — has made industrial agriculture unsustainable. Although input-intensive industrial agriculture was successful in increasing short term crop yields, the negative impact on ecosystems were too great; industrial agriculture depleted our topsoil and increased our reliance on fossil fuels thereby creating a massive increase in greenhouse gases released into our atmosphere. Due to the vulnerability of industrial agriculture, there has been a movement towards a new model of production called Regenerative Agriculture. This model does not focus solely on being sustainable, but instead seeks to restore natural processes through methods that promote healthy soil biology, carbon sequestration, water retention and biodiversity. Therefore, it is considered a major paradigm shift from an extractive approach to an ecological approach. A lot of previous work focused on developing large scale mechanical approaches to regenerative agriculture. There are now many researchers documenting how smaller-scale regenerative agriculture is uniquely positioned to contribute disproportionately. Small-scale (farm) farms have traditionally been viewed positively due to their perceived ability to be environmentally friendly, although they often receive less attention when developing policies related to agriculture. Due to their size, they are able to implement ecologically friendly farming techniques that larger farms may find difficult or impossible to implement. As opposed to broad-acre monoculture farming systems, smaller-scale farm systems can easily incorporate more complex and knowledge-intense techniques such as multi-species cover crops, rotational grazing with multiple species, bio-intensive no-till systems and integrated agroforestry systems. These types of relationships allow farmers to observe feedback from nature quickly, thus allowing them to adapt their methods quickly. Because of these characteristics, many scholars today view small-scale regenerative agriculture as one means of achieving resilient local food systems and as a form of decentralized climate mitigation. Although interest in small-scale regenerative agriculture is increasing, there is still a need for synthesis among the various disciplines researching small-scale regenerative agriculture. Ecologists continue to demonstrate the positive effects of locally implemented regenerative agriculture practices on environment health; however, social scientists highlight the structural barriers to adoption and implementation, such as insecure property rights, labor costs associated with operating the farm system and economic viability in commodity-focused markets. Finally, the fact that there is currently no standard definition of “regenerative” creates an opportunity for large corporations to define terms in ways that undermine the original intent of the small-scale practitioners and indigenous agrarian traditions that developed this type of agriculture. This literature review provides a critical analysis of all of the available information regarding small-scale regenerative agriculture. It examines the integration of three themes: biophysical soil health; socioeconomic viability; and institutional barriers. The goal of this review is to evaluate whether small-scale regenerative agriculture can actually provide a pathway toward an agrarian transition. Through identifying areas where further research is needed to address the structural obstacles to scaling up regenerative agriculture across different socio-ecological environments, this literature review also aims to outline the structural changes needed to achieve broader diffusion of these restoration based practices.

: # Growing Your Own Backyard Vegetable Garden – without the guess work. ## The SproutPlan will walk you through planting, caring for, and harvesting your very own backyard vegetable garden. Step-by-step. You can almost picture it: ripe tomatoes hanging from their vines; fresh herbs like basil growing just a couple of feet from your kitchen door; using ingredients grown in your very own backyard for tonight’s supper. But, exactly where are you going to begin? Just how many hours of sunlight does your area receive? What time of year should you be planting your lettuce? Why did your lettuce go bolting last year? The SproutPlan provides all of the information necessary to answer these questions, as well as providing you with a customized gardening solution based on your specific yard and your schedule. --- ### Designing Your Garden in Minutes. Enter your Zip Code, let us know about the space available in your yard, and tell us how many hours of direct sunlight you receive per day. SproutPlan will generate a Customized Yard Plan, which will include the correct varieties of vegetables to plant in your area (as well as the spacing), and group them together with Companion Plants that will assist one another in thriving. ### Know Exactly What to Plant, How Much Water to Give It, and When to Harvest. With our Personalized Gardening Calendar, you will have easy-to-follow reminders of when to sow seeds, water, feed and harvest. We also provide Frost Date Alerts to protect your young seedling before the temperatures drop. ### Solve Any Problems That May Arise Quickly. Take a picture of an unusual leaf coloration or strange spot(s) on a plant and we will quickly diagnose it, along with some organic treatments that may be applied to resolve the issue. No more midnight internet searching on forums! ### For All Levels of Experience. - **Recommendations for smart plants**, designed specifically for your experience/skill level. - **Weekly Check Lists** that take 15 minutes or less to complete. - **Track your harvests**, so you can determine what was successful and plan accordingly for next years' gardening efforts. - **Budget Estimator**, so you can know up front exactly how much money you'll spend on supplies prior to purchasing a single seed. --- > > "I had killed every single plant I had ever purchased. After three months with SproutPlan, I am now sharing my abundance of zucchini with my neighbors." — Dana R., Newbie Gardener ---

My interest in Human-Computer Interaction did not begin when I was in a Computer Lab or coding. It developed from watching my Grandmother have difficulty using a telemedicine app during a time she needed to call for assistance. The technology to help her was available; however, the interface kept her at bay. At that point, as my Grandmother struggled through her own crisis, inadequate contrast, unclear symbols, and confusing pathways turned a potentially lifesaving tool into an impassable barrier. That event solidified my belief that even the most technologically sophisticated tools are ineffectual if they neglect to address the emotional and intellectual limitations of people as well as their diversity. During my undergraduate education I tried to come to terms with both sides of this issue -- the technological boundaries of software and the psychological realities of users. Through my academic course work and individual project assignments I was continually directed toward the conflict zones (friction) of User Intent vs. Algorithmic Execution. For example, I learned through working together on a mobile application for local transportation that writing good code (efficiently) was only one-half of creating a functional tool; user interviews, user journey maps, and designing new Information Architectures represented the other half. What I also came to realize is that technology should be shaped by the complexities and messiness of human experience, rather than shaping humans to conform to machine-based rigidities. The reason I would like to pursue a Graduate Degree in Human-Computer Interaction is to develop the connection between computational capabilities and the ability of designers to provide empathetic interactions. I am particularly interested in exploring the opportunities for designing Accessible Interfaces based on Emerging Paradigms such as Voice Interfaces, Multimodal Artificial Intelligence, Ambient Computing. With Artificial Intelligence becoming increasingly integrated into our everyday lives, now is perhaps the greatest opportunity for designers of all disciplines to focus on developing thoughtful, ethically focused, and inclusive interaction designs. In your program I believe you offer the perfect combination of Interdisciplinary Education that will enable me to further study how Adaptive Interface Design can enable marginalized groups -- specifically older adults and those who lack digital literacy skills. Most importantly, I don't simply want to create Systems that function, I want to create Intuitive and Equitable Experiences for People so that Technology does not represent an Obstacle but instead represents an effortless Extension of Human Ability.

GENERATIVE AI WILL CHANGE KNOWLEDGE WORK FOR THE BETTER — IF WORKERS REMAIN IN CHARGE Generative AI is changing knowledge work because generative ai systems can create documents, generate summaries of academic papers, generate code and analyze data quickly. However, some people are worried that this ability to create answers and summaries quickly could replace the need for human workers. It is true that there is reason to consider this possibility, however, many experts believe that generative AI will help knowledge workers become more efficient at completing knowledge work, if organizations see it as something that assists them in making judgments and not as a substitute for human decision-making. Much knowledge work has involved performing repetitive tasks that do not require creativity. Lawyers review legal documents, marketers produce different versions of messages and software developers search for bugs. Each of these processes can be greatly improved using AI. For example, lawyers can use AI to find all relevant contracts in a document set, marketers can use AI to produce multiple versions of a message, and software developers can use AI to identify what line of code caused an error. Once these repetitive activities are completed much more efficiently, time is freed-up for higher-value work such as conducting client interviews, testing hypotheses and developing solutions to complex problems. As a result, it is not just possible to produce more work, but it is also possible to develop better work. However, efficiency in the production process is not the only way to measure success. Generative AI can be used to create false information, replicate existing biases and present arguments based on weak reasoning with excessive confidence. Therefore, employers must establish policies regarding when employees should verify the accuracy of information produced by AI. In addition, employers must determine how employees will protect confidential information and who will ultimately be accountable for decisions affecting people's health, financial well-being, civil rights and livelihoods. Ultimately, humans must always remain accountable for decisions that affect others' lives. Another criticism of generative AI is that it will limit job opportunities for lower-skilled employees. This argument is valid. Many junior employees learn how to complete their duties by performing the same tasks that AI can automate. If organizations eliminate these jobs without establishing additional mechanisms to teach new employees how to perform skills required in the organization, then organizations may experience increased efficiency in the near term, but at the expense of depleting their future talent pool. Organizations should design new junior positions that allow employees to evaluate AI output, formulate questions related to the validity of the output and understand the mechanics of the work. An example of this would be a new analyst position where instead of simply approving a report written entirely by a machine, the new analyst is trained to question and test the claims presented in the report. In addition to potentially limiting access to education and training through eliminating low-skill jobs, AI may also disproportionately benefit certain types of workers. Workers who possess strong domain-specific knowledge will likely be able to leverage generative AI capabilities to enhance their performance and productivity. On the other hand, workers who lack formal training or education may have difficulty detecting errors generated by machines. Employers must invest in providing educational resources and technical support for their employees as well as provide employees with an opportunity to participate in decisions related to the introduction of new technologies. Doing so would increase the effectiveness of technology adoption and ensure fairness among all stakeholders.

# Upgrade to a Mechanical Keyboard - The Best Advice for Typers Typing away all day as a writer, developer, or sending out countless e-mails; if so, you understand how frustrating it can be working on those flat, mushy laptop keys. Getting a mechanical keyboard is a huge improvement for both your fingers, and also your speed — along with making your desktop look far better. Are you ready to move forward? Below are ten fast and easy tips to help you achieve the ultimate typing experience: ### 1. Take Advantage of That Tactile Switch Bump Try to avoid linear switches — they're popular among competitive gamers who prefer rapid-fire action. Typists normally go crazy about tactile switches (e.g., Cherry MX Browns, Gateron Pro Browns) because when you press the key slightly enough so that the register clicks, they provide a nice “click” to tell your mind when to stop pushing the button down. ### 2. Consider How Loud Those Blue Switches Are Even though blue switches produce great audio during YouTube sound test videos, in reality they’re extremely loud. Unless you enjoy riling your neighbors up or need your coworkers to throw their computers out the window, I would recommend avoiding those very clicky switches. ### 3. Think About Choosing the Correct Layout There is obviously plenty of room to place the entire QWERTY layout of keys. Many typists do well using either a **75% or Tenkeyless (TKL)** board since they allow for placement of the arrow and navigation keys necessary for most users and keeps the mouse close to your body for improved ergonomic positioning. ### 4. You Will Not Regret Buying PBT Keycaps Those low-cost keyboards contain cheap ABS plastic caps that become shiny and oily within a couple months. **PBT keycaps**, however, have a texture, matte finish that produces a premium feel and does not degrade over time. ### 5. Invest in a Good Wrist Rest Since the height of a full-size mechanical keyboard is significantly greater than that of an inexpensive chiclet-style keyboard, a simple wood or foam wrist rest will maintain your hand in a neutral position to prevent straining your wrists. ### 6. Find a Hot-Swappable Board Do not know what type of switch you prefer? Purchase a **hot-swappable** keyboard. These types of keyboards allow you to replace switches with ease by popping them in/out using a small tool — no soldering iron needed. ### 7. Look for Profiles That Are Thicker Keycaps come in many forms called **profiles**. Research **OEM, Cherry,** or **sculpted profiles** that will naturally fit your fingertips into a curved shape. This will greatly assist you in locating home row. ### 8. Use a Desk Pad You may use a large mouse pad or felt desk pad for purely decorative purposes, but it also helps absorb the low-frequency vibrations of your typing creating a smoother typing experience and greatly reducing noise. ### 9. Do Not Overlook Lower-Profile Options Perhaps high-profile mechanical keyboards seem like too drastic of an adjustment from your Macbook. Give some thought to lower-profile keyboards (such as the **NuPhy Air Series**) . Although they still offer the benefits of a mechanical keyboard you'll have less difficulty adapting to this new style of typing. ### 10. Make an Effort to Type Lightly When typing on a mechanical keyboard you'll need to develop a lighter touch. As you practice floating lightly above each key instead of pounding them against the desk, your speed and comfort will improve.

The influence of technology pervades almost every aspect of life; however, technology often fails those individuals intended to be served by technology. This realization first occurred while I viewed my grandmother struggling to utilize an online banking application. My grandmother was highly intelligent, resourceful, and driven. However, the user interface presented her with numerous symbols (icons), multiple layers of unlabeled sub-menus, and ambiguous error message which left her questioning her own abilities. At that point, I recognized that my grandmother was not the source of the issue; the technology was failing her. The experience led me to pursue the discipline of Human-Computer Interaction. Since that time, I have pursued opportunities to connect users with systems in a manner that minimizes the barriers between humans and computers. Although I thoroughly enjoyed creating code in my introductory programming classes, I consistently became the most motivated when I began asking about the end-users of the applications I created: What were their specific needs and uses? With what frustrations? When I volunteered to redesign my University Club’s website, I conducted interviews, observed member search behaviors and tested various prototypes with the members. Seeing that a previously convoluted process of registering for events could now be completed within approximately a minute was extremely gratifying. As such, I recognized that thoughtful design is not merely cosmetic: it has a direct impact on whether a system serves to empower or exclude its users. As such, I believe HCI offers the opportunity to merge several fields with which I am passionate – psychology, design, engineering, and ethics. Furthermore, HCI provides the ability to address both technical and human-related issues simultaneously. For example: How do we develop systems which provide equal access to users with disabilities? How do we design AI-based applications which are both transparent and trustworthy? How do we develop technology which protects and respects users' attention and well-being versus taking advantage of these elements? These questions will increasingly become relevant as interfaces continue to expand into new modalities including voice, gestures, and immersive media. To further develop the skills necessary to address these types of questions (i.e., developing inclusive technologies) through formal education in HCI will enable me to acquire a systematic approach to research, increase my knowledge of cognitive processes and behavioral responses, and be able to learn from some of the leading researchers in the field. Additionally, I also look forward to collaborating with other students who come from a wide variety of academic disciplines because successful design requires input from a multitude of viewpoints. Ultimately, my long-range objective is to either contribute to the development of inclusive technologies as a researcher or as part of an organization whose mission includes providing technology products that allow users to perceive themselves as competent rather than perplexed. To this end, I aim to create systems that operate in harmony with the capabilities and limitations of each user — i.e., meeting people at their level of capability and avoiding situations similar to the one experienced by my grandmother. Therefore, pursuing formal studies in HCI represents the next logical step towards achieving my envisioned reality.

# Getting Your Self Illustrated Storybook Published Writing and illustrating a children's storybook takes more than putting together some words and finished artwork. First, develop a story that will be appealing to the appropriate age group and make sure it flows when read aloud. Add illustrations to what the words don't show. Develop a "dummy" (a miniature version of the entire book), which should be no larger than 6 x 9 inches. The dummy shows where there are text, where the pages turn, and where the illustrations belong. This will help you discover pacing issues in your book before spending too much time perfecting each illustration. **Illustrations**: Create consistency among your characters and visual elements within your story. When creating art traditionally, scan or photograph your artwork according to the requirements set forth by the publisher/printer. If you create digital artwork, review the size, resolution, color setting, and bleed (the part of the image that gets cut-off when printed) to ensure all elements are correct. Be sure to leave sufficient space for your text so as not to place key aspects too close to the edge of the page. **Choosing A Publishing Route**: Traditional publishing requires finding an agent or a publisher who accepts books written & illustrated by the same person. Research these companies carefully and follow all submission guidelines closely. Submission guidelines may require a manuscript, a dummy, sample completed spreads, and/or a portfolio link. Traditionally published authors typically receive professional editing, design, printing, and distribution of their book. However, this process can take time. With self-publishing, you are free to determine how long your project will take and what your end result will look like. With self-publishing however, you are also accountable for producing the product and selling it. Compare various printing options or services by requesting physical proofs prior to placing your order. Review the quality of the paper, the reproduction of colors, the binding, and how much you will need to sell your book for to pay for your cost(s). **Preparing To Release Your Book**: Even after revising multiple times, consider hiring a freelance editor or ask someone with experience in critiquing books to provide feedback. Use both the final designed layout and the original manuscript for proofreading: the text can shift or disappear while designing. Create a clear title and summary of your book. Decide if you want to purchase your own ISBN depending upon your publishing path and your distribution strategies. Prior to allowing a print run to occur, order a proof and examine every single page. **Getting Readers To Find Your Book**: Determine how many copies you can afford to produce and ship. Create an author-illustrator website with examples of your artwork and include information regarding purchasing. Contact local bookstores, libraries, schools, etc. with a proposal that provides a unique opportunity for them to support your book (i.e., having you come and perform readings/drawing workshops at their location). Research and understand their policies before scheduling visits. Lastly, maintain accurate records of all documents, contracts, expenses associated with publishing your book. Making one decision creatively (e.g., developing a good dummy) followed by another practically (e.g., double checking your proof), will ultimately help your book succeed better than rushing through publication.

**Precision Built Into Every Tool – The Stainless Steel Ruler** Measure once, Cut Once. This stainless steel ruler is made for Makers, Machinist, Engineers, and Designers. All too often we find ourselves using tools that don’t allow us to achieve the level of accuracy that our projects deserve. We want precision without compromise. This ruler has been CNC milled from a solid piece of Premium 304 Stainless Steel. After milling, each ruler was given a Satin Brushed Finish that reduces glare and finger prints. Each graduation was laser etched into the metal. Laser etching provides the most durable markings available. They won't fade, smudge or become worn over time even when used every day in your Shop, Studio, Lab, etc. Accuracy is critical. Graduations are accurate to +-.01 inches. There are Dual Scales (Imperial and Metric) on both sides of the ruler. Imperial Scales include Fine Increments of 1/64", while the Metric Scales have fine increments of .05mm. Large Bold Numerals ensure that you read your measurements quickly and accurately. The Edges of this ruler are precisely Flat and Square Ground making them ideal as a Straight Edge for scribing, marking and trimming. A rubber backing is applied to prevent slippage on any surface. At the top of the ruler there is a hole which allows you to hang the ruler on your workbench. This ruler is Corrosion Resistant, Durable and Lightweight. It is a tool that you will pass down to future generations instead of replacing. **Features:** - Length of 12-Inches / 30cm - Dual Scales (Etched) - Rubber Non-Slip Backing - Made from Premium Grade 304 Stainless Steel

# 10 Ways To Find The Right Mechanical Keyboard For You Your keyboard is your co-worker when you spend time on the computer. Here are 10 ways to choose and enjoy a mechanical keyboard that meets your needs. **Tip #1 - Learn About Switch Types**: The switch is the heart of your keyboard. There are linear, such as Red, that feel smooth and quiet; there are tactile, such as Brown, that give a slight "bump" ; and there are clicky, such as Blue, that sound like a small typewriter. If possible, try them out before you purchase. **Tip #2 - Actuation Force Matters**: If you prefer light switches (they require less pressure), they may decrease the amount of finger fatigue you experience after many hours of typing. Heavy switches may be helpful to avoid misspelling words. **Tip #3 - Size of the Board Matters**: If you prefer full keyboards that include a numeric keypad, then a TenKeyLess (TKL) or a 75% keyboard design will save you desk space. Additionally, using an alternate layout allows you to position your mouse close to your body, improving your posture. **Tip #4 - How Will Others View the Noise? ** While clicky switches are fun, others nearby may not agree. If you work in an open space where people sit next to each other, consider purchasing a board with quieter switches or add O-rings and foam dampeners. **Tip #5 - Add Wrist Rests**: Even though hundreds of keystroke happen daily, it is important to keep your wrists straight. Adding a comfortable, padded wrist rest will greatly assist with this. **Tip #6 - Select the Best Keycap Profile and Material**: You can select from two types of materials for keycaps. PBT caps do not show shine and provide a nice texture. ABS caps are softer to touch but will eventually wear faster than PBT caps. Low-profile caps can feel better than traditional-style caps if you transitioned from a laptop. **Tip #7 - Try Split or Ergonomic Layout Options**: Initially, an ergonomic design may seem unusual, however, the benefit of relieving shoulder tension is significant. Give yourself some time to adapt. **Tip #8 - Install Hot-Swappable Sockets**: With these options, you can replace your switches easily. This way, you won't be stuck with a set of switches you did not want. You can experiment until you find the perfect fit. **Tip #9 - Clean the Keyboard**: Crumbs and dust can quickly accumulate on a keyboard. Every so often, take apart your keycaps and vacuum up debris, then wipe everything down. **Tip #10 - Program Custom Keys and Macros**: If your keyboard supports programmable keys and/or macros, you should program custom keys for functions you perform repeatedly (such as copy/paste/your favorite phrase). ## Additional Thoughts Ultimately, the best mechanical keyboard is the one that provides comfort for you. Be sure to start with a solid keyboard and budget for upgrades later. Experiment and learn along the way.

Generative AI is going to completely alter (restructure) knowledge work. While it will make many aspects of our jobs easier (and potentially less time consuming), it will also create the opportunity for us to be judged for our decision making and judgment. These are just some examples of things that AI does well: generating boilerplate code drafting emails summarizing documents creating initial drafts of most types of written content All of these tasks used to take up a significant amount of a worker's time. Research done at MIT showed that employees who use ChatGPT to assist with writing tasks finish their assignments about 40% faster and have higher quality ratings. Similar results have been seen from research done at GitHub regarding developers and the task completion times with and without the assistance of Copilot. The closer we get to a point where generating a first draft costs nothing, the less valuable the first draft becomes. What takes on greater importance is all the other steps involved in creating a final product. Who determines if there is enough justification to pursue a particular issue? Does the user recognize when a system is providing a false confidence in its ability to provide an answer? One of the problems with generative AI is that it often generates information based upon the assumption that the user wants "right" answers. This means it sometimes provides false citations, misreads contextual clues provided in the question, and/or makes flattering assumptions based upon the input provided. In addition, a lawyer who provides a court citation produced by AI in an effort to support his argument, such as was demonstrated in the recent *Mata v. Avianca* court case, has not lost their job due to the introduction of AI into their profession. Rather, the lawyer failed to utilize their analytical skills when reviewing their potential argument before presenting it to a judge. Verifying accuracy and being accountable for one's actions remains the responsibility of humans. As the volume of generated material increases, so too does this responsibility. There is a very real concern related to this trend, particularly concerning entry level professionals. Traditionally, entry-level positions within a field have acted as an educational experience for young professionals. Junior analysts learn by drafting memos and junior developers learn by identifying and correcting errors in programs. With AI absorbing much of this type of work, companies will need to identify new methods to train professionals or else they will lose the individuals who know how to supervise these systems. Companies that view AI as solely a method to cut costs may end up eliminating their own talent pipeline. Another criticism is that improvements in capability are happening rapidly enough that even areas that require high levels of judgment will be able to be automated. This is certainly possible. However, historical trends suggest that while automation replaces many of the rote, repetitive tasks associated with a position, it rarely eliminates an entire occupation. Spreadsheets did not replace accountants; instead they reduced the number of hours spent performing arithmetic and increased what accountants needed to analyze. As always, the best way to respond to innovation is not with either panic or complacency. Professionals should focus on developing their abilities in problem identification and analysis; critical evaluation; and area-specific expertise. Organizations should design new roles and training opportunities focused on human oversight of AI.

**Privacy Legislation Must Keep Up With An Unbordered Digital Information Exchange** Data protection laws were created to provide consumers greater control over their personal information. The problem is the data flows through numerous services (apps, advertisers, brokers and governments), and thus it is very difficult to determine both the requirements of these laws and the ways in which they can be enforced and/or exercised. As previously stated, some regulations (e.g., the EU's GDPR; CA's CCPA) establish the requirement for all companies to clearly state how they will utilize customer data and provide customers specific rights, i.e., the right to see/access and/or delete any data associated with each customer. However, there are many factors affecting the effectiveness of this regulation, specifically: - Where you live - Who has your data - What are the exceptions In fact, due to varying levels of enforcement across countries, states and provinces, the same activities can result in varying degrees of consumer protections. For example, one provider may allow a user to request deletion of a profile, while another entity may keep similar records for legitimate reasons (i.e., security/legally required/biz). Deleting information from one application/service provider also does not automatically eliminate the existence of duplicate copies of said deleted information maintained by other service providers with whom the original service provider shares data. Another challenge is obtaining consent. While a company may meet all disclosure obligations, providing the notice regarding how your data will be utilized can be lengthy and complex. As a result, most people have no alternative but to "agree" because the service is either required for their job/school/life etc. Thus, agreeing to terms of service may seem like a straightforward process to obtain user permission. Additionally, even if a service meets all notification requirements, users may still not fully comprehend what types of inferences may be drawn from their geographic location/purchases/web browsing history. Obtaining enforcement of consumer privacy laws is also problematic. First, investigators must examine rapidly evolving technical infrastructures that span international borders. Second, large corporations may possess resources (i.e., compliance attorneys/legal staff/compliance budget) that smaller businesses do not. Finally, the consequences typically occur after the data has already been collected/exposed. Technological advancements are creating additional challenges. AI systems can make determinations based on isolated datasets that appear harmless. In addition, data brokers can merge information from various sources to create profiles that make it difficult for users to determine what entities hold information about themselves. There are also carve-outs within many data protection regulations for government activity or other industries that operate pursuant to separate regulatory schemes. However, that does not mean that current data protection legislation has no effect. Consumer rights to access their own data/limits on data collection/fines for violations of those rights can influence how corporations conduct themselves and provide regulators with necessary tools to take action. Nevertheless, simply having legal rights to protect consumer privacy does not ensure that consumers will actually have that level of control when applications/services are designed to collect and store vast amounts of user generated data by default. Increasingly, the debate is focusing on whether legislators should prioritize reliance upon explicit consent by users and impose stricter fiduciary responsibilities upon organizations to reduce collection/minimize storage/data breaches and justify how they use the data. More clear guidelines/enforceable oversight/privacy-oriented design would help bridge the gap between the legal rights consumers enjoy on paper vs. their actual level of control online. At present, data protection laws remain an important safety net -- with one fundamental limitation: once information leaves the owner's hands, it travels/multiplies/reveals more than was originally intended.

# illustrated picture books – getting published ## 1. Get your manuscript ready The typical length of a picture book is 500 words or less. It usually includes 32 pages. Read it aloud to yourself and to others; share your story with kids. Each time you turn the page, there should be some type of visual interest or surprise. Since the artwork will likely illustrate parts of your story, do not write about things that will be shown by your drawings. ## 2. Make a story board and a dummy Create thumbnail sketches of all 32 pages (usually 12-14 spreads + front & back matter). Build a dummy using cardboard or paper — either physically or digitally. Check the pace, where the text goes on the page, and how well everything flows together. Give yourself room for gutter space because the middle fold of your book may gobble up important details. ## 3. Decide on an approach to publishing ### traditional publishing: Author/illustrators traditionally send a complete manuscript, a dummy, and two to three finished illustration samples to editors and/or agents. Research which literary agencies and/or publishing houses allow submissions; always follow their guidelines very closely. Be prepared to wait months, possibly years, for a response...and expect rejection. The society of children’s book writers and illustrators is a great source to find potential markets for your Work. ### self-publishing: You retain full creative control and significantly higher royalty rates than traditional publishing. However, you are responsible for creating, producing, and promoting your book. This method works best for those who wish to self-publish quickly, and/or create content for a specific niche market. ## 4. Create your final artwork (for self-published Work): Use a minimum resolution of 300 dpi; Use CMYK or the printer’s preferred color palette. Include .125 inch bleed area around each page. Choose one of the standard sizes such as 8.5 x 8.5 inches, or 8 x 10 inches. Ensure that your text and major art elements are at least .5 inches away from the edges. ## 5. Complete all the little things - **Editing:** hire a children’s book editor, or trade Editing ideas with fellow authors/writers. - **Typography:** choose simple-to-read fonts and solid contrasts. - **ISBN:** purchase an ISBN from bowker (for us), so you can show yourself as the publisher. - **copyrights:** file your Work with the U.S. Copyright Office. ## 6. Find a printer/printing service If you choose Print-on-demand services (such as Amazon kdp, or IngramSpark), they require no initial inventory and give you access to many channels of distribution. If you prefer higher quality hardcover editions, or if you anticipate large numbers of sales, look into offset printing options. Offset printing becomes less expensive when you buy in larger quantities. When ordering, always request a proof copy and verify your colors accurately. ## 7. Promote your book Before releasing your book, establish an author website and email list. Contact local school librarians, independent bookstore owners, blogging parents, etc., and ask them to review your book. Participate in readings at schools and libraries; provide free printable activities for classrooms; gather early reviews by sending advance copies to reviewers; if needed, organize a crowdfunding campaign to cover the printing cost while building a pre-release audience. ## 8. Continue writing Building a body of Work is essential to success in writing children’s picture books. Analyze why your previous books were successful (or not); listen to reader feedback; then begin working on your next project.

**Laws Protecting Digital Privacies Are Slowly Being Outpaced By The Amount Of Data That Companies Are Collecting From Technology Users** While legislators around the world have been celebrating the passage of landmark digital privacy legislation, privacy advocates and researchers are warning that those laws cannot keep pace with the way we currently gather and use our data. As a result, there are many areas where the law does not provide adequate protection for users' personally identifiable information (PII). Recent state and federal laws give consumers the right to review, delete, and restrict companies from using consumer PII. However, most critics of these laws believe that the protections being offered by these laws are more symbolic than actual. A primary challenge facing all forms of digital privacy regulation is the issue of informed consent. While nearly all forms of online privacy regulation attempt to establish a connection between a company collecting consumer PII and obtaining the consumer's permission to do so, it is well established that most consumers do not actually read or comprehend privacy policies. One widely-cited study found that if one were to spend an average of just five minutes per day reading each and every privacy statement a typical Internet user encounters during the course of a single calendar year, he/she/they would be required to spend approximately two full months of work time solely to accomplish this task. Furthermore, even when consumers are presented with a consent banner, most simply click "yes" in order to continue accessing the service. Another barrier to enforcing meaningful digital privacy regulation is the fact that regulatory bodies are grossly underfunded compared to the number of entities they regulate. Regulatory investigations into alleged violations of digital privacy law can take multiple years to complete. Even then, fines issued to violators tend to be based upon a percentage of revenue that may not be material enough to impact a major technology firm's bottom line. Additionally, some of the largest technology firms view fines as merely a normal operating expense. Finally, the international nature of the Internet creates additional obstacles to enacting effective digital privacy regulation. Because data travels internationally at speeds measured in milliseconds, regulatory jurisdiction stops at national boundaries. For example, numerous times disputes regarding the transfer of personal data from Europe to the U.S. have resulted in invalidation of previously negotiated agreements and created uncertainty for both businesses and end-users. In addition to regulatory challenges, the rapid technological advancements occurring in the area of big data analytics and artificial intelligence are rendering outdated much of the language contained within current digital privacy laws. Current laws generally define "personally identifiable information" (PII) as any information that could reasonably be used to identify an individual. However, recent advancements in big data analytics have allowed companies to create profiles of individuals who had previously been anonymized by linking together various datasets. Moreover, inferences made by algorithms concerning an individual's health, financial status, politics etc., exist in a gray area of law as they represent something derived from a combination of publicly available sources, app usage patterns, credit reports etc. versus data provided directly by an individual. Additionally, several types of data collection activities are taking place which are beyond the scope of current digital privacy regulations. For instance, data brokerages are compiling comprehensive dossiers containing information on virtually every aspect of an individual's life through a variety of means including; public records searches, app usage data, information purchases etc. without having any direct relationship to the individual(s) being profiled. Similarly, government acquisition of commercially-held data has raised serious concerns as governments are able to purchase information that would normally require a warrant to acquire. Advocates of digital privacy advocate for a paradigmatic shift in the manner in which digital privacy is regulated away from requiring individuals to provide explicit consent prior to data collection towards limiting the type and quantity of data collected by companies prior to collection (data minimization). Advocates also propose banning certain types of data-related activities entirely (e.g. sale of sensitive location data). On the other hand, industry representatives argue that overly restrictive data collection limitations will hinder future innovations in technology and disproportionately harm small businesses due to compliance costs associated with implementing complex regulatory requirements. This battle is expected to escalate as AI continues to drive ever-increasing demands for high volumes of quality training data. Currently, experts agree that until legislative bodies create and implement better digital privacy laws, individuals will bear the responsibility for protecting their own digital information -- a burden that few possess sufficient knowledge or resources to assume.

When balancing the funding of public arts versus the need for infrastructure improvements, cities and towns must move beyond the idea that one has to come at the expense of the other. Functional infrastructure — clean drinking water, safe roadways and reliable utilities — will always have to be part of what we consider basic responsibilities of being a community. However, public art cannot be relegated to merely being a cosmetic luxury, but instead should be used to create greater engagement and understanding within our communities when combined with capital improvements. The most practical way to find this balance is through use of a "Percent for Art" policy where municipalities dedicate a small portion (usually .05% to 1.00%) of the budget for major infrastructure projects toward artistic elements. In using this model, the incorporation of art in our communities' infrastructure projects doesn't take away from meeting our basic structural needs, but adds an element of humanism. A typical highway overpass could become a prominent landmark because of the addition of sculptural lighting. A simple concrete stormwater retention area can be transformed into a local park/green space with added beauty due to the mosaic artwork on display. Murals created locally in areas like mass transit stations do not only add visual appeal, they also help reduce vandalism and save money in long-term maintenance. Public art, when incorporated into our urban landscape, can provide additional economic and social value that strengthens the overall quality of our infrastructure. Areas with vibrant and visually appealing public art spaces increase foot traffic, encourage tourists and support local businesses — all of which contribute to increasing the tax base to fund future civic work. Public art also provides a sense of place, safety and civic pride for residents, helping to turn cold physical structures into functioning communities. Infrastructure creates the physical structure of a city, while public art gives it life. When treated as a necessary and integral component of designing our built environment — as opposed to something to include later or compete with for funding — our communities can meet their essential physical needs, while developing spaces that are both strong and inspiring.

While a community's need for safe functioning basics always takes precedence over public works investment and/or art funding when there are financial constraints, communities should not view public works (infrastructure) and public art as competing uses of funds. Rather, they should be viewed as complementary investments; as part of a broader effort to create a vibrant and attractive community. The starting point is the recognition that fundamental infrastructure has priority. Infrastructure such as water systems, roads, bridges and emergency services protect people from harm and provide an environment within which economic activities take place. Therefore, when a community is facing deferred maintenance issues or hazardous conditions related to its basic services, diverting dollars into public art would be difficult to defend. As noted earlier, residents reasonably expect to have their basic service needs satisfied before the addition of aesthetic enhancements. Art is not simply an additional element to be added to the base level of service provided by government. There is research and local experience that demonstrates how public art can contribute to strengthening a community's identity; attracting visitors; supporting local artists; and creating a sense of pride among neighborhood residents. The most effective way to achieve this is through the process of integrating art into the planning and delivery of the infrastructure itself. In many cities throughout the world, there exist "percent for art" policies that establish a percentage (usually one to two percent) of each capital project budget will be allocated for the purpose of including artistic elements. This method ensures that all expenditures for art are proportionate; links them to existing capital construction projects; and eliminates the possibility of placing them in competition with other critical needs associated with those same projects. For example, a new bridge, transit station, or plaza could incorporate thoughtful design at minimal incremental costs. Equally important is the transparency and involvement of residents in determining where these limited dollars go. Budgetary decisions regarding how tax payer monies are spent should be made transparently through open budget hearings and through clearly articulated selection criteria. Public art becomes less controversial if it relates to the historical context and cultural values of the residents and if they understand that the basic needs of the community are being addressed first. Lastly, it is possible to utilize multiple funding sources for public art. In addition to tax revenues, grants, private donations, corporate sponsorships, and endowment income can be used to fund specific projects without encroaching upon dedicated highway or utility budgets. Additionally, temporary installations, community murals and similar forms of artistic expression may represent a relatively inexpensive means of providing visual stimulation to an area. In summary, fund the necessary functions of government in a consistent manner; use small percentages of your capital project budget to integrate art into the infrastructure you build; explore alternative funding streams for specific public art projects; and allow citizens to participate in making decisions about what will receive funding.

[Your Name] [Your Phone Number]| [Your E-mail Address] [Portfolio Vimeolink]| [Location] [Date] [Hiring Manger's Name or Search Comittee] [Producation Company / Project Name ] [Company Adress / "Remote"] Dear [Hiring Manager's Name or "Documentary Production Team"], I am excited about the freelance Documentary Editor Position for [Project Title or "the new documentary feature" ]. I have been impressed by your production company's commitment to telling stories that are both informative and character-driven. As such, I believe I can provide the skills to help tell a story with impact while providing the narrative drive and technical skills necessary to assist your team during post-production. In addition to having worked in documentary post-production for [number] years, I have edited documentary short films, documentaries, and docuseries. I have developed expertise in developing compelling and coherent 3 act structures from hundreds of hours of unedited, vérité style footage and long-form interviews. When it comes to editing documentaries I see the role of the documentary editor as the last edit of the script. Therefore, my goal when working as a documentary editor is to strike a balance between creating a sense of drama through pacing and maintaining a sense of authenticity to the subject's voice throughout the film. Most recently, I was the lead editor on [Title of most recent Project], which is a [feature/short] documentary that explores [ brief topic, i.e. social justice/environmental issue etc. ]. In working with this project, I had the responsibility of shaping the central theme of the film using over 150 hours of un-transcripted footage, created a temporary soundtrack and collaborated with the directors to develop the rhythmic tone of the film. Ultimately, [Title of Most Recent Project] screened at [Film Festival / distributor] and received [audience acclaim]. From a technological perspective, I am capable of easily transitioning into a completely remote or hybrid post-production workflow. I am highly skilled in all aspects of each of the major video editing platforms currently available including Adobe Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, Avid Media Composer, and many others. These programs enable me to work efficiently and effectively on large projects that include but are not limited to multi-camera assemblies, integrating archival elements into the timeline, and managing offline-to-online finishing pipelines. Additionally, I have extensive experience round-tripping color and sound for each platform. While technology provides the tools for completing a project successfully; ultimately, it is collaboration that makes successful documentary edits possible. Working with a producer/director in a documentary post-production environment is a very collaborative effort. From my experience, collaboration requires open communication, flexibility, and a willingness to receive feedback. This is why I believe one of my greatest strengths as a documentarian is my ability to be an ego-less creative collaborator who receives input positively and has no problem solving potential narrative bottlenecks. It would be wonderful if we could discuss your assembly or vision for [project title] further. Thank you for taking the time to consider my qualifications and experience for your project.

# 10 Tips for mechanical keyboards to improve typing experience A good mechanical keyboard will greatly improve a long day of typing. However, there are literally thousands of switches, layouts, and key caps to choose from. This can cause confusion when looking at all of these options. The following are ten practical Tips to help you choose the right mechanical keyboard that will work for you. **1. Determine how you type**: do you spend a lot of time writing articles, sending quick e-mails or switching back-and-forth between typing and playing games? Before choosing the features of your next keyboard, think about what you do the most. **2. Test your switches before buying**: there are three basic types of switches: linear (smooth), tactile (gives a clear bump) and clicky (gives both a bump and audible "click"). Using a switch tester will prevent you from spending money on an entire keyboard based solely on the manufacturer's description of their switches. **3. Don't assume louder means better**: although some people love the feeling of hearing their keys register as they press them, this can be annoying in meetings, video calls, etc., where you're trying to stay quiet. If being able to hear your keyboard is important to you, look into purchasing quieter switches and investing in a solidly built case. **4. Choose a layout that fits your desk space**: full size keyboards have a numeric keypad whereas tenkeyless and smaller designs remove this extra row to allow for increased mouse movement space. Just remember to ensure you won't be missing the frequently used keys. **5. Notice the shape of your key caps**: although different manufacturers name similar products differently, there are varying shapes of key cap profiles available (height & contour). If one keyboard design feels odd and tiresome, there might be something wrong with the key cap profile itself. **6. Find a keyboard at a comfortable height**: if your keyboard is too steep, you'll likely be keeping your wrists elevated. Experiment with a flatter setup; keep your wrists straight and relaxed, and regularly take breaks. **7. Take a closer look at stabilizers**: larger keys such as the space bar and enter require stabilizers to provide stability. Even if your switches are excellent quality, poor quality stabilizers will make your overall experience less enjoyable. **8. Consider having hot-swappable switches**: many modern keyboards come equipped with hot-swap sockets allowing you to easily swap out many of your switches without having to solder. While not required to purchase a mechanical keyboard, this feature may prove useful if you plan on testing multiple switch configurations. **9. Remember about everyday conveniences**: in addition to the obvious advantages of having a mechanical keyboard, consider the convenience aspects such as: wireless capabilities, removable cables, media controls, and software support for remapping keys. The best feature is simply the one you'll actually end up utilizing! **10. Establish a budget and leave room for surprises**: when browsing through online marketplaces and forums, you often see very expensive custom builds. Although you may not need an expensive custom build to enjoy a great typing experience, place the emphasis on finding a comfortable and reliable product, and then experiment with additional features that interest you. Ultimately: there isn't one mechanical keyboard that will suit everyone. If possible, test several keyboards in person and pay attention to what feels comfortable after sitting for more than just a minute or two. Ultimately, buy the board that motivates you to continue typing!

I am interested in the Freelance Documentary Editor opportunity. After eight years of editing nonfiction documentaries for broadcast, streaming and festival audiences, I can help shape your next documentary project. I am skilled technically but also creatively; therefore, I always look for the best way to tell your story through the editing process. I started by assisting the Director on a full length documentary about Coastal Communities losing their homes. During production we logged over 200 hours of footage and built an Assembly Cut (the first cut) that ultimately led to securing additional funding. This experience taught me one thing I still believe today: Great documentary editing finds the story that is already present in your footage, then allows it to "breathe" in its final form. In addition to creating an Assembly Cut, I have worked on many other documentary projects including several 8 minute web shorts and a 90 minute feature documentary that premiered at a Regional Film Festival. I am proficient in using Adobe Premiere Pro & DaVinci Resolve, and I will use Avid Media Composer if required by the Project Manager. Additionally, I do some simple color correction, audio cleaning, and create all the Motion Graphics associated with the project. Doing these tasks internally enables the producer to save money on their budget while keeping the timeline tight. On archive heavy projects, I organize large media libraries, track licensing requirements, and work with multiple formats and frame rates without sacrificing quality. The most important aspect of this work is teamwork. Every Director has a unique relationship with his/her footage and it's up to me to listen intently before making the first edit. As such, I provide well-organized Review Cuts with clear explanations, encourage honest feedback, and will alert producers proactively when I recognize structural issues or potential improvements. In fact, producers have informed me that they appreciate my ability to meet deadlines and point out problems/areas of improvement before they become major issues. Most recently, I completed a short documentary film about a Third Generation Bakery Owner for a Non-Profit Client. The raw interviews were all over the place and emotionally uneven. Through restructuring the film around a single morning of work, I produced a quiet and intimate film that was later selected into two film festivals and increased donations to the Non-Profit Client. As a freelancer, I am used to working from home and quickly adjusting to new teams, workflow(s), and creative direction. I have a reliable editing system with redundant backup systems, and I am willing to utilize your preferred File Sharing Platform(s) and Review System(s). Thank you for taking the time to read my letter. If you would like to speak further regarding how my skills may be able to assist your future projects, please contact me. Both my Portfolio and Reel are located here: [Portfolio Link]. Please feel free to ask for References. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Phone Number] | [Email Address]

I got interested in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) after seeing my Grandfather have trouble to book a doctor's appointment using his computer. He was able to find all the information he needed; however, his eyesight was not good enough to read the fine print, and there were many "choices" to navigate through to get to where he wanted to go. On top of this, some of the "error messages" did not clearly tell him why the application failed, which made a simple task seem almost impossible. He asked me to assist him in completing the appointment, and while I completed the appointment, the experience stuck with me. People are continually told that technology makes their lives easier. While this may be true most times, there are many times when technology makes things difficult. And this is exactly what I want to understand – why technology fails us at times -- and how we can prevent this from happening. I am drawn to HCI because it involves both the technical aspects of solving problems and understanding people. Just because a system works quickly and efficiently does not mean that it will always be successful. It may never succeed if no one understands it or trusts it. I want to know about the decision-making processes that lead to these user experiences. Specifically, I want to know how designers gather data about what users need, how they evaluate their own assumptions based upon data collected during usability testing, and how they weigh the importance of issues such as accessibility, privacy, and simplicity. Ultimately, I want to apply the methods used by researchers in HCI to take everyday complaints and turn them into better products. Accessibility is something that I am particularly interested in. The fact that my Grandfather's frustration with using the web-based medical scheduling tool was due to something as seemingly inconsequential as font size demonstrated to me just how much a designer's decision regarding an element of the product can either allow or deny a potential customer access to the service. By studying HCI I believe that I can develop my ability to include users with disabilities, users with limited backgrounds and/or little exposure to digital systems within the entire design cycle. Furthermore, I want to improve my ability to listen before making recommendations and to assess whether the solution proposed is effective beyond the confines of a classroom or laboratory setting. In addition to the analytical nature of HCI, I also appreciate the creative aspect of this discipline. Designing interfaces requires questioning what is working and what needs to be changed. In addition, designing interfaces requires developing ideas, and having the willingness to abandon ideas when data contradicts your original intent. This process resonates with me because it views errors as learning opportunities as opposed to a reason to discontinue development efforts. Ultimately, I hope that my studies in HCI will enable me to create technology that acknowledges people who depend on technology. Regardless of whether I contribute toward creating tools for medical services, educational platforms or applications I have not thought of yet; I want to create more accessible and understandable digital experiences.

When the European Union passed the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in 2018, it was hailed as a historic development – a “digital Bill of Rights” which would put significant constraints on big tech's insatiable hunger for personal data. But six years after GDPR took effect, there is growing alarm among digital rights advocates: existing privacy regulations are inherently unable to address the true nature of how we experience modern technology today. Whereas existing legislation such as the GDPR and CCPA successfully prohibited blatant, unapproved data hoarding; big tech has moved toward more complex methods of surveillance, which do not violate existing legislative standards. One major weakness of current law is its reliance on a “notice and consent” model. Advocates claim that requiring users to agree to endless banner messages has resulted in “consent fatigue,” instead of actually empowering them. A recent study conducted by the University of Oxford indicated that over 80% of Internet users mindlessly approve tracking agreements solely to be able to view website content. Therefore, the legal definition of “informed consent,” which requires knowledge of what you are consenting to, has lost virtually all of its effectiveness. Additionally, privacy regulations continue to be based upon the outdated principle of Personally Identifiable Information (“PII”) – information about people including name, social security number, etc. However, since data brokers no longer require PII to profile individuals, they use other means of identifying those who browse the Internet. By creating behavioral dossiers using a combination of device battery level, typing speed and daily GPS location tracking data (each piece of data individually appears harmless), data brokers have developed an ability to create accurate digital portraits of Internet users with an accuracy rate approaching 100%. This creates the paradoxical situation whereby these profiles provide complete anonymity to the users whose activities were tracked; thus allowing data brokers to disregard statutory provisions defining personally identifiable data. Modern Algorithmic fingerprinting further complicates the ability of lawmakers to develop effective regulatory policies. With billions of web pages being used to train Generative Artificial Intelligence models, AI models operate outside of traditional regulatory boundaries established by prior law regarding data scraping. AI models are capable of consuming the entire digital footprint of a user every time they access a new webpage. Finally, national DPAs lack sufficient funding to enforce compliance. National Data Protection Authorities ("DPAs") are severely under-funded compared to trillion dollar tech giants. While large fines may garner attention in news reports; they are generally viewed as merely another cost-of-doing-business by these corporations. We are using 20th century legal concepts to govern 21st Century Predictive Behavioral Engineering states Elena Vance, a digital ethics researcher at The Open Technology Institute. Passing a statute that prohibits the direct acquisition of a consumer's data provides no relief from an organization's ability to infer the same type of data through indirect profiling. It remains clear among technologists that unless individual user consent is replaced with strict prohibitions against data-based business practices, privacy protection will continue to exist primarily as a legal fiction.

**Headline**: The Great Escalation: How Generative Artificial Intelligence Will Improve — Instead of Eliminate — Knowledge Work. Generative artificial intelligence is rapidly rising up the technology ladder and it’s already causing one common reaction – techno-panic — specifically, fear about being replaced. Many have warned that AI will replace lawyers doing legal analysis, programmers coding computers, doctors diagnosing patients, and writers creating content. But when we look at the trajectory of economics and technology, there really isn’t much reason to worry. What we’re experiencing is not a replacement of knowledge-based jobs, but rather an escalation of them. Generative AI will remove the mental drudgery associated with most white collar positions, create access to previously exclusive expertise for all, and shift the focus of our work from rote cognition to high level thinking and interpersonal understanding. Automation doesn't reduce the quantity of jobs, it changes how people perform those jobs. When spreadsheets were first developed in the 1970s, many people believed that they would eventually lead to the demise of the accounting profession. And while some accountants indeed lost their livelihood due to automation, others quickly transitioned from performing manual (and therefore time-consuming) calculations to providing strategic advice to companies regarding financial planning. Similarly, generative AI will represent a major turning point for knowledge workers. It will automate the process of retrieving information, draft initial versions of documents and reports, synthesize vast amounts of data, thereby removing the administrative burden associated with most forms of knowledge-based labor. As such, professionals will be able to spend virtually all of their time operating at peak cognitive capacity — using their critical thinking skills to evaluate complex ideas, develop innovative strategies, and make informed decisions based upon nuanced perspectives. In addition to freeing professionals to think critically and strategically, generative AI also democratizes expertise. Traditionally, developing high-quality code, conducting sophisticated marketing research or producing visually stunning graphics requires either extensive education/training or significant resources (capital). Generative AI eliminates both barriers, allowing individuals who are not formally trained in these areas to utilize their own imagination and creativity. For example, AI can function as a personal researcher, assist with generating ideas/copywriting, act as a "junior" developer etc. Therefore, a single knowledgeable employee equipped with AI can potentially equalize the output of an entire team and significantly increase his/her productivity. However, regardless of how proficient AI becomes in terms of processing and analyzing information, it does not possess the key elements that define human knowledge: contextual understanding, ethical awareness/intuition, empathy/compassion, and real world experience. While AI can use existing data to forecast possible outcomes, it cannot handle the complexity and nuance of a boardroom crisis, establish trust with a bereaved customer/client, nor generate new paradigms through sheer coincidence. As AI continues to proliferate throughout markets — it will actually solidify the value proposition of uniquely human capabilities. At its core, the argument that AI will eliminate knowledge workers misunderstands what constitutes “knowledge” per se. Knowledge is not simply memorized patterns; it is the intentional/strategic application of insight to solve human problems within context. Generative AI is not a mortal blow to the existence of knowledge workers; it is the impetus for a modern intellectual revival. Through eliminating routine tasks that humans currently perform — it will allow the human mind to concentrate on what truly matters: innovation, judgment and relationships.