Let me just start by saying I have a lot of management, training, on boarding experience. I work here because it's low stress, provides me with some extra income, and gets me insurance.
Anyway, short staffed as always they finally hire two new people, both of which have aniexity we find out. No big deal. Everyone does to a point and I've been working with this new generation that seems to have it in worse ways than others. It's okay. You can usually work past that with the right approach.
Hire #1, nice person. Didn't apply for this position. Never worked retail. They were feeling overwhelmed on day 2 and I told them it was okay. We'll slow it down and eventually they'll start catching on and they'll become a master of it. TL starts pushing new hire to do this and that and lists off a huge list of things TL wants new hire to be trained on by end of the day. New hire confides in me that this is too much too quick.
So my experience with previous employers I would address the situation by slowing down training and making the new hire comfortable, thus retaining them and gaining a certain loyalty because they knew we were out for their success. It takes a little longer but you get a great team member in the end. So TL doesn't want to hear any of this from new hire or me and keeps pushing. I go to coach hoping for more understanding and get, "If new hire is going to quit, they can quit. Let TL deal with it." TL then gives an ultimatum to new hire and new hire quits. IMO there was probably a better seat on the bus for new hire tgat we could've easily saved their job putting them in to that understaffed area.
New hire 2 worked a shift. Left early second shift. Didn't show up for a few shifts but talked to TL and said that it was too much too early but they wanted to make it work. I honestly didn't think they'd show up again. But it was the day they were supposed to show up at 2, so I told my TL to take their lunch at 1 so they'd be back in time for the zone. TL said no because New hire 2 would be here. New hire 2 came in at 2, I went to zone, TL went to lunch, new hire 2 took off their vest, clocked out and never came back.
Really gonna leave a person alone that has told you they don't feel comfortable in their position and that could be fixed by adjusting your lunch time.
Could've saved them both, but it's not my circus, it's not my monkey's. Walmart doesn't want to put the time into training employees or hold their supervisors accountable for attrition so be it.

I've seen Westworld multiple times and now I live in Medellin Colombia and want to share it with my friends here but they only speak Spanish. I purchased all of it on Apple TV but it's only available in English, I pay for HBO Max but it isn't available there anymore, and on Amazon Video it's only in English as well. What do I have to do to be able to watch this in Spanish without having to pay for it again? It seems like every show these days has good multi-language support but HBO didn't want to put the money into translating Westworld. Even Spanish subs would be fine.

Hi folks,
A family member sent me a gift that I can’t use at all, so I’d like to return it. He included a gift receipt, so it’ll be easy to return and get an Amazon credit. I know the sender isn’t officially notified, but my coworker warned me today that if he goes back through his Your Orders screen it will show “item refunded/returned” next to the purchase, thereby notifying him unintentionally. Is this true? I really don’t want to hurt his feelings, so even though I doubt he’d go through his Orders screen, I’d hate to even risk it!

I've just bought an iPod, and I'm excited to use it primarily as a music player to enjoy high-quality sound and disconnect from my phone.
I have a hard drive with a music library that I've been building for the past 10 years. However, it's been dormant for the last four years as I switched to using Apple Music exclusively.
I've already synced this library with my Apple Music to use the iCloud Library, allowing me to have the same library available for streaming on Apple Music whenever I want.
Now, I want to get back to owning my music files. My plan is to discover new music and artists throughout the month, and at the end of the month, I'll choose one or two albums to download or purchase on iTunes.

My question is, how do I mix downloaded files, iTunes purchases, and my old library now on iCloud Library?

Should I sync my iPod with the music app, or upload the files manually? If I go with manual uploads, how do I access the files from an iTunes purchase?
————————————————————————————————————————————————
Note: I use a MacBook, and I need to buy on iTunes because some indie artists I like only have their music available there, or they're too obscure to find through alternative means

I've just bought an iPod, and I'm excited to use it primarily as a music player to enjoy high-quality sound and disconnect from my phone.
I have a hard drive with a music library that I've been building for the past 10 years. However, it's been dormant for the last four years as I switched to using Apple Music exclusively.
I've already synced this library with my Apple Music to use the iCloud Library, allowing me to have the same library available for streaming on Apple Music whenever I want.
Now, I want to get back to owning my music files. My plan is to discover new music and artists throughout the month, and at the end of the month, I'll choose one or two albums to download or purchase on iTunes.

My question is, how do I mix downloaded files, iTunes purchases, and my old library now on iCloud Library?

Should I sync my iPod with the music app, or upload the files manually? If I go with manual uploads, how do I access the files from an iTunes purchase?
————————————————————————
Note: I use a MacBook, and I need to buy on iTunes because some indie artists I like only have their music available there, or they're too obscure to find through alternative means

If they want people to spend their gold, then let them refresh the shop using gold. Give them a free daily refresh, then incrementally increase the gold cost each time they refresh the shop. This way, they make people use gold. It's so absurd to wait 24 hours for the shop to change. Also, have a different tab for the featured album. I don't know why SD doesn't have this feature. I don't know if they're called monetization managers, but they're so bad at their job.
They will earn much more money if they just put a shop button on each card, then show all available variants for purchase. Snap and Marvel Snap Zone have better UX than them, which is infuriating. The game is really barebones, man. I don't know why basic settings and options are not there. I guess they need to hire a UX specialist or what. Even the home screen doesn't feel like home screen to me; it kind of looks like notes or news.
Also, is it hard to have a profile? And have three highlight cards you like or something? A win-loss record or anything else you want, and a friend option and guild system similar to Dota 2 would be great. They really have a good approach to the guild aspect; it doesn't break the game but allows members to have a point system based on how active they are in doing quests. Additionally, having a guild points shop for something like conquest, where you have a different shop for it, would be beneficial.
Man, what programming language are they using? Is it old syntax or something? My assumption is that they might be using an old programming language or something.

MS-ISAC CYBERSECURITY ADVISORY
MS-ISAC ADVISORY NUMBER: 2024-058
DATE(S) ISSUED: 05/15/2024
SUBJECT: Multiple Vulnerabilities in Google Chrome Could Allow for Arbitrary Code Execution
OVERVIEW: Multiple vulnerabilities have been discovered in Google Chrome, the most severe of which could allow for arbitrary code execution. Successful exploitation of the most severe of these vulnerabilities could allow for arbitrary code execution in the context of the logged on user. Depending on the privileges associated with the user an attacker could then install programs; view, change, or delete data; or create new accounts with full user rights. Users whose accounts are configured to have fewer user rights on the system could be less impacted than those who operate with administrative user rights.
THREAT INTELLEGENCE: Google is aware that an exploit for CVE-2024-4947 exists in the wild.
SYSTEMS AFFECTED:

• Chrome prior to 125.0.6422.60/.61 for Windows and Mac
• Chrome prior to 125.0.6422.60 for Linux

RISK: Government:

• Large and medium government entities: High
• Small government entities: Medium

Businesses:

• Large and medium business entities: High
• Small business entities: Medium

Home users: Low
TECHNICAL SUMMARY: Multiple vulnerabilities have been discovered in Google Chrome, the most severe of which could allow for arbitrary code execution. Details of these vulnerabilities are as follows:
Tactic: Initial Access (TA0001):
Technique: Drive-By Compromise (T1189):

• Type Confusion in V8. (CVE-2024- 4947)
• Use after free in Dawn. (CVE-2024- 4948)
• Use after free in V8. (CVE-2024- 4949)
• Inappropriate implementation in Downloads. (CVE-2024- 4950)

Successful exploitation of most severe of these vulnerabilities could allow for arbitrary code execution in the context of the logged on user. Depending on the privileges associated with the user an attacker could then install programs; view, change, or delete data; or create new accounts with full user rights. Users whose accounts are configured to have fewer user rights on the system could be less impacted than those who operate with administrative user rights.
RECOMMENDATIONS: We recommend the following actions be taken:

• Apply appropriate updates provided by Google to vulnerable systems immediately after appropriate testing. (M1051: Update Software)
  • Safeguard 7.1: Establish and Maintain a Vulnerability Management Process: Establish and maintain a documented vulnerability management process for enterprise assets. Review and update documentation annually, or when significant enterprise changes occur that could impact this Safeguard.
  • Safeguard 7.4: Perform Automated Application Patch Management: Perform application updates on enterprise assets through automated patch management on a monthly, or more frequent, basis.
  • Safeguard 7.7: Remediate Detected Vulnerabilities: Remediate detected vulnerabilities in software through processes and tooling on a monthly, or more frequent, basis, based on the remediation process.
  • Safeguard 9.1: Ensure Use of Only Fully Supported Browsers and Email Clients: Ensure only fully supported browsers and email clients are allowed to execute in the enterprise, only using the latest version of browsers and email clients provided through the vendor.
• Apply the Principle of Least Privilege to all systems and services. Run all software as a non-privileged user (one without administrative privileges) to diminish the effects of a successful attack. (M1026: Privileged Account Management)
  • Safeguard 4.7: Manage Default Accounts on Enterprise Assets and Software: Manage default accounts on enterprise assets and software, such as root, administrator, and other pre-configured vendor accounts. Example implementations can include: disabling default accounts or making them unusable.
  • Safeguard 5.4: Restrict Administrator Privileges to Dedicated Administrator Accounts: Restrict administrator privileges to dedicated administrator accounts on enterprise assets. Conduct general computing activities, such as internet browsing, email, and productivity suite use, from the user’s primary, non-privileged account.
• Restrict execution of code to a virtual environment on or in transit to an endpoint system. (M1048: Application Isolation and Sandboxing)
• Use capabilities to detect and block conditions that may lead to or be indicative of a software exploit occurring. (M1050: Exploit Protection)
  • Safeguard 10.5: Enable Anti-Exploitation Features: Enable anti-exploitation features on enterprise assets and software, where possible, such as Microsoft® Data Execution Prevention (DEP), Windows® Defender Exploit Guard (WDEG), or Apple® System Integrity Protection (SIP) and Gatekeeper™.
• Restrict use of certain websites, block downloads/attachments, block Javascript, restrict browser extensions, etc. (M1021: Restrict Web-Based Content)
  • Safeguard 9.2: Use DNS Filtering Services: Use DNS filtering services on all enterprise assets to block access to known malicious domains.
  • Safeguard 9.3: Maintain and Enforce Network-Based URL Filters: Enforce and update network-based URL filters to limit an enterprise asset from connecting to potentially malicious or unapproved websites. Example implementations include category-based filtering, reputation-based filtering, or through the use of block lists. Enforce filters for all enterprise assets.
  • Safeguard 9.6: Block Unnecessary File Types: Block unnecessary file types attempting to enter the enterprise’s email gateway.
• Inform and educate users regarding the threats posed by hypertext links contained in emails or attachments especially from un-trusted sources. Remind users not to visit un-trusted websites or follow links provided by unknown or un-trusted sources. (M1017: User Training)
  • Safeguard 14.1: Establish and Maintain a Security Awareness Program: Establish and maintain a security awareness program. The purpose of a security awareness program is to educate the enterprise’s workforce on how to interact with enterprise assets and data in a secure manner. Conduct training at hire and, at a minimum, annually. Review and update content annually, or when significant enterprise changes occur that could impact this Safeguard.
  • Safeguard 14.2: Train Workforce Members to Recognize Social Engineering Attacks: Train workforce members to recognize social engineering attacks, such as phishing, pre-texting, and tailgating.

REFERENCES:

vet assistant feeling lost
I have been a vet assistant at my clinic now for almost 3 years. My end goal is to go to vet school, but that is probably still a few more years away. I absolutely love my job and clinic, and while there are hard days and difficult coworkers and clients at times, I honestly wouldn’t trade where I am for the world.
For the last year or so, I have been battling feeling unappreciated and not a valued member of the team, specifically by management. Our manager does yearly reviews of our performance, typically with a raise, which she consistently fails to do on time for most employees. My most recent one was about 2-3 months late. I am constantly asking to do more as an assistant that I legally can to help the technicians workload, as well as to learn and grow, and I am usually shot down or told by management it will be discussed and worked on with no follow-ups. I asked to be full-time last summer while outside of school, and instead got my hours cut with no warning. I again asked to be full time this summer, and my manager refused to discuss my hours with me until she was nudged by one of the DVMs telling her I was seeking other opportunities for the summer. I feel as though because I am part time my hours are seen as insignificant, and that other employees are prioritized over me for opportunities even though I have more experience. The nail in the coffin was learning that I am payed less than an assistant they just hired (that I am helping train) as well as other assistants who do less technical work in the clinic than I do.
My coworkers do an amazing job at letting me know I am valued and appreciated, and that they feel frustrated for me. I obviously will be asking for a raise, but I wanted to use the opportunity to also discuss my feelings with my manager as well. I am honestly just seeking advice. I obviously hope the conversation leads where I want it to, but if we can’t come to a resolution the last thing I want to do is leave. Any advice is appreciated!

This is in Australia. A family member received an email that was 100% legitimate, asking for a payment as a deposit for a larger purchase. The email was not compromised at all, we have verified this. In the email are some account details i.e. BSB, Account Number and Account Name. All are confirmed correct so this is NOT an email intercept.
Family member logs in to internet banking on their computer, enters credentials etc and then attempts the payment. The bank is ANZ. They use an exsiting bookmark to reach the online banking portal. The bookmark is since confirmed as legitimate. They enter the payment details (BSB, Account Number, Name) as given in the email and then submit. Once complete, they select an option to capture the reciept of the payment. This is where it seems to have gone wrong ...
The receipt is for a payment to an account name that is similar but not identical to the intended account. The BSB is completely different from the one that was entered. The Account number is completely different from the one that was entered. Somehow, despite this person entering what appeared to be the correct details, a payment has been created that is ultimately sent to a different account.
I consider myself pretty tech savvy, but I'm completley lost on this one. How is this even possible? I'm trying to think through the options but none of them add up.

• Were they routed to a fake web site?
• Is their computer itself compromised and somehow manipulated remotely?
• Did someone compromise their online banking and manipulate the transfer through some other method?

Would really appreciate some help on this one. The bank isn't providing any insights. All login and account details have since been changed, so hopefully the loophole has been closed, but if I don't know how they did it, how can I be sure they won't do it again?

Hey all, Just want some education on network speeds on devices and switches. I will say that I undertstand the basics of an example is if my router is 10gbs and my modem and all devices are 1gbs then I can only gets speeds of 1gbs to my devices and the internet.
So my question is LAN bandwidth and I’ll try and keep this simple. Let’s say I have 5 computers with 1gb Ethernet ports at my business and all connected to a 1gbs switch and all of my employees are transferring a massive file to each other or into the internet, is the speeds across all 5computers through this 5 port 1gb switch basically 1000 ÷ 5 = 200mbs speeds??
Now if I I get a 5 port 5gb switch and my employees are transferring files to each other over lan does that mean speeds are 5000 ÷ 5 = 1000mbs speeds.
I understand my internet speeds are limited to what my router,modem and device ports are at, but I’m asking about data transfer between LAN network.
Also does this theory apply to wifi6 compatible devices so if I have to transfer my file to another computer over my Wifi6 next work. Does that allow me to get the 9.6gb speeds between devices? Like are really fast apple airdrop

I am on the 4th round (I know...) interview for a Demand Generation Manager position with a tech startup for a that has around 75 employees.
My next step is a panel interview with some members of the marketing team. One of the members is the solo Product Marketing Manager.
What questions would you expect to be asked?

Throw away since I know this former employee is on Reddit.
This is in regards to a small, privately owned retail business in an at-will state.
Usually oral agreement issues are employees being shafted by owners/managers/etc. that the latter may have orally agreed to about X, Y, or Z to an employee. It has actually been difficult to find online search results that are reversed, which is the case I am experiencing with a former employee (let's call them Alex, in a gender-neutral manner to reduce revealing private info about them) - Alex is claiming that they were promised a large portion of ownership of the business as well as equity related to recent, large product investments.
We had to fire Alex because of prolonged, catalogued/tracked service quality and professionalism issues, as well as strong suspicion (and eventual solid evidence discovered post termination) of theft. The service quality and professionalism issues were discussed with Alex numerous times, and naturally known to other employees working alongside them. Eventually, after numerous continued issues and verbal warnings, Alex was formally written up and we had them sign the notes covered in the meeting. After a couple more months of still declining service quality, and odd, suspicious behavior that strongly indicated theft as mentioned, we were forced to terminate employment. We provided Alex with a fairly standard release form which essentially said "we won't sue you and you won't sue us, and if you sign you get 4 weeks of severance pay." Alex did not sign the form. Alex found new employment about 4 weeks after termination and to my knowledge has not filed for unemployment for the few weeks between jobs.
As mentioned, we later confirmed not only theft, but Alex was selling the stolen goods online while undercutting our prices and then even using the store's financial accounts to purchase shipping labels for their online customers to ship the stolen goods to them. We have screenshots of their Ebay account, along with pictures they took showing of the goods where their hand is visible with recognizable jewelry seen by all the staff before Alex was terminated (so we can confirm it's Alex in the pictures they posted). There is strong evidence of other theft but it is more difficult to prove.
Re: the oral agreement - it should be noted that I did in fact make an oral agreement with Alex, but of which is very different than the one they are claiming was made. Because Alex was our first employee and worked with us for over 5 years, I agreed that if the business was to ever grow to say another storefront, I would allow Alex to buy in for an undetermined percent of the business (probably around 10% at most). That is it. I've maintained that this was the agreement to Alex, my wife, and employees for a number of years, never changing the details of the arrangement. Unfortunately Alex made these poor service quality and theft decisions and was terminated before the business was able to grow into an additional store (still not a possibility at the moment and probably for another couple of years), thus the agreement is now null and void. This agreement was NOT written down or signed by either party (and thus no witnesses either).
Alex is claiming that they were promised to be given (yes, given, not just allowed to buy in) ownership up to 50% of the current business and 20%-30% or so of the value of recent product investments, of which would likely be in excess of $100,000 together. Alex's claim is absolutely not true. There is no paperwork, signatures, witnesses, etc. that would be able to confirm this unless they are going to forge something or have people lie for them. However, I am concerned about this because I otherwise do not have proof that this was not the agreement...
Our two current employees, aware of this situation, and aware of (and witness to) the poor and odd behavior of the former employee that led to their termination (including the theft), are more than willing to testify that Alex's claim is not the case. Alex even spoke to them about thinking about drafting a letter to me about a 7% ownership stake, which they never did. If they were orally promised such a great deal of ownership why would they need to draft a letter for only 7%? Unfortunately Alex has recruited the wrath of their parents (who they lived with for 6 years straight and just moved into an apartment, Alex is in their 30s.) who are going to bankroll them a lawyer. I would imagine that Alex has been telling their parents for some time now (like years) that there was some sort of oral agreement about ownership more in the line of their false claims (to the specifics I am not sure) and they have been able to convince them that their child is telling the truth. So Alex's parents could very well feel like they're telling the truth when they say their child told them about this crazy 50% stake and equity when in fact it was a lie. But how do I prove that? Do I need to prove that?
Here's where it gets a little more complicated - Alex's father (who I miss, he was a good guy) is handy and built a majority of the counters, drawers, storage, display tables, etc. in the storefront for free (he refused payment for the labor, but I paid for all the materials of which I have receipts for). Alex is claiming that because their father built all this furniture, it is "proof" that they were promised part ownership and equity (because why else would their father be so generous?...). But that is not the case, their father just wanted to help and participate in any way he could as he is nearing retirement and wanting to take on new activities. The employee may have been cultivating this false assumption that such construction is proof of promised partnership with their fathefamily from the start, although their father never mentioned anything like that to me.
The personal and professional betrayal aside, I'm concerned about Alex levying such accusations of ridiculous grand promises via oral agreement since it is so hard to confirm either way, and given this person's proclivity of lying (and stealing) I have little trust they will act in good faith if any legal proceedings unfold. I would love any advice on how to possibly handle this issue. Wouldn't the onus be on Alex to prove these grand promises? Given the little I have listed above, what "evidence" might be in their favor? How concerning is it that their parents are fully convinced their child has been wronged (I also know that Alex is telling friends and new coworkers the reason they were fired was because of me not wanting to "give" them part of the business)? It seems ridiculous a parent's perspective would hold much weight in actual legal environments since they would be so biased. Should I be concerned there is no written agreement about any of these promises (including the legitimate one about eventual opportunity to buy in)? Anything about their father volunteering their labor? Is it a good thing that our current employees are willing to testify (on their own volition, I didn't even ask them) about their own first hand experiences and conversations with Alex that contradicts many of Alex's statements? Anything else potentially troublesome I should be aware of?
Yes, lots of lessons learned here - get things in writing for my own protection against such claims. Unfortunately that is not the case here, so advice geared around the fact that no party has much to support their claims (well, I'm only claiming their claim is false) would be most helpful. Please let me know if you have any clarifying questions or need more information for better input. I really appreciate your time and consideration!

I am grateful to have had at least a couple of internships before i graduated but it seems like they mean nothing.
Lately i've been getting rejected right after applying by a lot of small non-tech companies like local hospital networks, retail companies, healthcare companies, etc
I'm applying to junioassociate/level 1 SWE roles so its not like i'm competing with people with 10 YEO. are ex-faang, ex-jane street people really applying to these kinds of places? because who else could those "other candidates" be?
Name
number email linkedin GitHub
EDUCATION ———————-
College Name Graduation Date: Month Year • Major: B.S. Computer Science • Relevant coursework: Object-oriented Programming, Data Structures and Algorithms, Discrete Mathematics, Linear Algebra, Probability and Statistics, Project Management, Database Design, Cloud Computing • Awards: [college] Presidential Scholarship and Dean’s List [Learning Platform]- User Experience (UX) Design Certification
SKILLS ———————- • Programming Languages: Python, Java, Swift, JavaScript, SQL, GraphQL • Libraries/ Frameworks: TypeScript, Next.js, Angular.js, React.js, Express.js, Node.js, Pandas, Tailwind • Technologies: Azure, AWS, Git/GitHub, MongoDB, HTML/CSS, Postman, XCode, Zeplin, Figma
WORK EXPERIENCE ——————————-
[well-known Fortune 150 company]
Software Engineer Intern
• Developed key feature using TypeScript and SQL to enhance metric-tracking capabilities by 30% of [company platform name] web platform, which is used by over 1,200+ major companies
[non-tech company]
Software Engineer Intern.
• Deployed Python scripts to automate workflows for the data management team within a [company type], resulting in a 50% reduction in manual workload for formatting invoices
[small unknown tech company (<500 employees)]
Software Engineer Intern
• Built a Python-based tool to verify the validity of outputs from [company’s] [API use case] APIs, ensuring reliable service for over 1,000 corporate clients
[local startup]
Software Engineer Intern • Built a front-end feature, following an Agile development cycle, which makes [company’s] platform more accessible to [specific users] with disabilities by including [feature highlight] and increases sales by 10%
LEADERSHIP/ EXTRACURRICULARS —————————— [College CS organization] President Month- Month Year • Led an executive board of 14 student leaders and delegated tasks to plan events/ workshops for 100+ members • Managed collaborations between 3 campus departments, 5+ CS professors, and 10 other student organizations • Conducted technical and professional workshops introducing new technologies and computer science topics
[well-known media company] Cloud Computing Fellow Month- Month Year • Gained hands-on experience in networking, serverless applications, scalability, HTTP protocols, etc. from industry professionals to work on weekly projects using AWS, Postman, Node.js, and AWS DynamoDB
[college multi-semester project team] Project Leader Month- Month Year • Led group to build [college’s] official web platform for managing clubs/student organizations • Built using MongoDB, Express.js, React.js, Node.js and is expected to have 26,000+ users after deployment
[non-credit app development course on campus] Co-founder and instructor Month- Month Year • Taught and managed a cohort of 40 undergrad students to build iOS mobile applications using XCode and Swift with CodePath’s curriculum designed by Apple engineers
[FAANG learning program] Participant Month- Month Year • Collaborated with a team of peers to build a web application for sharing open-source learning resources using HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Java, and XYZ Cloud Platform APIs (XYZ Engine and XYZ database) • Explored fundamentals of computer networking, servers, and servlets under the guidance of [company] engineers
PROJECTS —————— • xyz iOS app: Movie recommendation app built using the Movie Database API and Swift • xyz Tweet App: Twitter timeline viewer; built using Java, Twitter REST API, Android Async HTTP, and Glide • Image-sharing mobile app: built with Swift and Parse serverless backend for user authentication

I purchased a large jar of red cabbage with apple (vinegar) thinking it was a sauerkraut. I’m looking to add more probiotics to my life and dont believe it is actually fermented. Can I ferment this already packaged jar? If so, how? (Total novice to these things) Thanks!

Hi Everyone! I’ve always loved good smelling stuff and for the last 15 years I’ve usually had one bottle of cologne, and would replace once it’s out. Only in the last few months have I really delved into this world and began filling out a modest collection. I’m definitely not an expert (so take my reviews with a big grain of salt) but I love smelling and writing so here ya go. (Fucking wall of text incoming lmao, I didn’t realize how lengthy this got)
I just got back from a three-hour mall trip to try and get my nose on as many niche fragrances as my senses would tolerate. I had already done a good bit of research so I had some picked out to try and others already crossed-off. Im a 30M for reference.
I also had the goal in mind to find a contender for a fall/winter scent that exudes class, sophistication and decadence. For that, I’ve already tried a few that I really enjoy, and kind of used these as a springboard to continue exploring:
Xerjoff Alexandria II- This is what I envision royalty wearing. Lavender and rosewood mix soooo nice in the open, and dries into a lovey rose/vanilla/essence of oud. The oud is really toned down here for those that dislike it. It’s kind of hard to pick out. Nuclear performance.
Initio Oud for Greatness- Another good starter oud, you could say (this was my introduction to oud). It lasts forever and the dry down is seriously heavenly. The wet, soily oud is at the forefront for 2-4 hours, but I’m absolutely in love with what’s left when it disappears. Lavender, saffron, nutmeg and musk mixes into the best dryer-sheet-like scent I’ve come across (what it reminds ME of at least).
Perfums de Marly Haltane- Quite similar in the opening to Oud for Greatness. Haltane is darker, though, where I get more leathesmoke. I think the oud in this is more subdued, or at least less moist smelling. It blends well and lasts a good while.
Initio Atomic Rose- Holy shit. Apparently rose gets my motor GOING. I tried a lot of rose-centric fragrances today, but this probably still takes the cake for its balance and strength, in addition to the scent itself being just gorgeous.
So with those in mind I was off to Neiman Marcus. I sampled a large amount more than what I’ve written, but stuck to the ones that were memorable; good or bad.
Frederic Malle - Portrait of a Lady- My favorite of the Frederic Malle. Sensual rose/clove/currant at the front, but it is kind of hard to pick out specific notes on this one. After looking, I can get the cinnamon in the background of the dry down, it blends perfectly with the sandalwood, rose and benzoin after drying down. - Carnal Flower- Some similarity to POAL, lots of tuberose and jasmine, which I personally like. A bright yet sensual floral, and you get some coconut and melon there, too. I typically dislike coconut but this is blended masterfully. - Lipstick Rose- Yeah, that’s what it smells like. Try this if you’ve seen people describe scents as lipstick-y or violet taking on that accord. Not my cup of tea, also leans more feminine to my nose than the other two. - Musc Ravageur- I really wanted to like this one. And for a split second I did! A clove-y vanilla sasparilla is what I first got, and it unfortunately turned into barnyard urine. I immediately remembered seeing some reviews stating this, and I couldn’t get my nose to move past it. I can tell there’s good stuff there, but not for me.
Amouage - Reflection- The only one I’d tried before, and remains one of my favs. Rosemary and pink pepper greet you with a deep, fresh spice. The vetiver and patchouli sit nicely at the bottom, and the combination of white florals mixes wonderfully. Another scent I could imagine on royalty, and seems pretty versatile, too. You could wear this year-round without feeling out of place. Insane staying power. - Lyric- Probably my favorite, but I need to smell again on another day. Compared to the other Amouage, I had to continually stick my nose in the coffe beans to pick up the scent from the test strip. When I did get it, it was a lovely light, fresh scent. Quite a departure from the other Amouage I’ve tried, but great. No surprise, the list of notes are some of my favorites: lime, bergamot, rose, orange blossom, saffron, nutmeg, musk, pine, vanilla, incense, sandalwood. Seriously, love each and all those individually and they come together beautifully. - Interlude- Another good one. Dark, mysterious. Definitely get the oregano/peppepatchouli/incense bomb off the top. Leather lurking behind. I typically don’t gravitate toward the leathery scents but this one’s good. - Enclave- This pretty much seals the deal for me that on me, mint just ain’t it. I liked Sedley at first, but the mint somehow gets too cloying to my nose after too long. I can tell I would get the same from the peppermint in the opening of Enclave. I almost liked this one, too. If you can even tolerate peppermint, you’ll enjoy this one.
Mind Games - Blockade- Wowww. First sniff love, here. Explosion of citrus, juicy fruit-y sex. I usually find myself staying away from citrus-forward scents but this shit is next level. This will be a contender for my next upscale summer buy. - Double Attack- Another love at first sniff. It’s familiar, though. Chocolate/orange/cinnamon/vanilla. You’ll want to eat it right up. I already have this box checked in my collection, but may come back to it in the future. - Checkmate- Another lovely scent. Champagne, red currant, rose, magnolia, little patchouli. It all comes together really nicely, and it was difficult for me to pick out specific notes before looking. Not a love, but I was really impressed with the quality and scent profile of the Mind Games I tried.
Clive Christian - Town & Country- Wow. No seriously, like fucking wow. Smells like an Italian fruit cart strolling through an English manor’s sprawling garden road. I look at the notes and I don’t understand how you get this smell supposedly out of Clary Sage, Ambergris, and Sandalwood. Like, what? This is high quality shit. I get some pear or grapes there, too. Try this. - Crab Apple Blossom- Yum yum yum this is goooood. Smells like it sounds. Bergamot, apple blossom and rhubarb dance around playfully together. Can’t help but have a big stupid smile on your face when you smell this. The more it dried down, the more it might be my favorite over Town & Country. - Matsukita- Another great scent. In the same vein as the other two since they are part of the same “Crown Collection.” You get some smokiness, here. Bergamot with nutmeg and mate give depth and a little mystery. White florals, woody ambers and musk at the base. Just quality stuff here. All three of these in the Crown Collection were available in 10ml travel size gift pack for $300. Good idea to put on my wish list. That shit is kiiiinda expensive.
Xerjoff - Erba Pura- I did not expect to like this as much as I did! Favorite that I sampled. Perfect combination of citrus and fruitiness off the top, layered over a bed of sweet musk. Something here is very familiar to my nose but I couldn’t place it. This will be another top contender for a future upscale summer purchase. - Accento- Soothing scent. Fruity white floral (usually dumb reach for me), and the iris gives it some powder but not overpowering. Not as feminine-leaning as I would have expected. - Iommi- Delicious! Sweet smoky rum off the top, and it’s a little surprising how forward the patchouli and leather is in this. It’s bordering on being a little overpowering, but it tames a bit on the dry down. I’d need to see how this goes on my skin, for sure. - Torino 21- Another one that I liked way more than expected. I’m going back and seeing mint listed as a top note here…I didn’t get that! And thank God since mint usually is a non-starter. Kind of an aquatic green to my nose. Again, just a lovely scent. - Naxos- Yeah ok this is good shit. I was expecting a sweet bomb, but this is definitely more restrained than what a lot of reviewers will have you believe. I’m a sucker for lavender and bergamot. Throw in honey and jasmine atop a bed of tobacco, vanilla and tonka bean? Yes please. - Erba Gold- Pretty good. To my nose more feminine than Erba Pura, likely due to the extra fruits in the middle. That combination of citruses, pear and melon is reminiscent of particular ladies’ scents.
Louis Vuitton - L’Immensité- Ohhhh yeahh. Relaxation in a bottle. My favorite besides maybe Fleur du Desert. This, Imagination and Météore all kind of dance to the same song, so to speak. More than one of these would be redundant, in my opinion. The quality speaks through each of these fragrances, though- really nice stuff. - Imagination- The name fits, as a lot of the notes here are almost fleeting like a word on the tip of your tongue. It’s a great, calming scent but it didn’t blow me away. Like I said, L’Immensité was the best of these and I don’t see the need to diversify within this collection. - Météore- Compared to L’Immensité, there’s a little more sweetness here. This leans closer to a shower gel-like scent in my opinion. Still great. - Fleur du Désert- This one started out reallly good. Honey and cinnamon into rose and orange blossom is an intriguing, sensual combination. Unfortunately, smelling it on my arm after a couple hours, the jasmine and honey turn into something my mind recognizes as an old lady scent. The POAL on my hand, by comparison, keeps mixing with my skin in a great pheromonic way. - Ombre Nomad- Disappointed with this one. I’m realizing I don’t gravitate toward darker scents like heavy oud, leather, incense. I can tell it’s put together really well and uses quality materials, but this isn’t one that was made for me.
All in all, my main take-aways include: Xerjoff scents living up to the name. I was definitely impressed with their offerings, and would have expected it to lean closer to overrated. Same with Mind Games. Really enjoyed everything I sampled from them, even if it wasn’t my cup of tea, I was impressed with the quality. Also, I need to get back and sample the rest of the Clive Christian house. I was absolutely blown away with what I tried.
A little bonus: I tried TF Noir de Noir, Extreme Noir, and Cafe Rose. Extreme Noir is excellent. A regal mix of saffron, nutmeg and cardamom on top of rose and white florals. Ahhhh, again, similar to what I imagine a king or king to smell like.
Cafe Rose is probably the second best rose-centric scent to my nose besides Atomic Rose. I’ll need to put those side by side.
Anyway, feel free to ask away if you’d like. I was bored and inspired so killed some time writing this out :)

Just wondering, has anyone been asked to show “proof of orders” when TDY? I travel quite a bit for my current assignment and with the new travel voucher system, orders are no longer issued to members.
When checking an oversized bag, staff at American Airlines and United Airlines refuse to accept my travel authorization as “proof of orders”. I had an employee yesterday accuse me of fabricating the SATO document just to get a free checked bag as I was headed for a week-long TDY. Any advice?

cutting hours but still hiring more people…..
it’s incredibly frustrating to the people who has been there for years with their hours being cut… this is now my 4th schedule with my hours being cut and now it seems like it’s tricking down to other team members as more and more people are asking for extra shifts in the groupme’s
(before someone asks yes i have talked about this to my leadership team.. this is now the 3rd or 4th consistent time in the past 2 years)
i get it.. chick-fil-a is a very desirable place to work off the bat. i was once in those shoes but we have nearly 200 employees at my store.. then half of the people that my leadership team hires doesn’t even last a few weeks or months…
i’ve been working at cfa for over 2 years and i’ve reached my breaking point. i have a car payment, car insurance, as well other small expenses… i no longer work because i want money for the mall or going out to eat. i have true and important expenses… i turn 21 in august..
i am tired of getting the short end of the stick as i can break my back for this place (staying back for someone, picking up shifts, working hard) and barely getting appreciated or when i need help with getting a shift covered nobody wants to help me…
so i am looking for a new job. while i am not in a hurry as i honestly don’t want to leave as i’ve gotten super comfortable with everyone but at the same time i am tired….
thanks for coming to my rant

I went into the Walmart in Timmins, Ontario and used the self checkout. After I scanned the item and placed it where your suppose to put the items scanned, the screen advised that an employee will be along to assist me (why, I have no idea). The employee came over, scanned his card and the screen that you can watch yourself did a replay of my purchase. I watched myself scan the item and attempt to pay. The guy cleared the message and I was permitted to pay for my item. I noticed that multiple checkouts were doing this. Is this going to be how Walmart employees check your order to make sure you didn't "forget" to scan something instead of checking reciepts as they know you don't have to legally show them the receipts.

Good Morning, LawPH!

Im a silent readelurker sa sub na ito. Please help me enlighted regarding this situation.
Isa po akong Licensed Doktor (General Practitioner), na nagpriprivate clinic sa isang Diagnostic Center sa lugar namin.
This past few weeks, may pa programa yung may ari ng Diagnostic Center, which is to acquire more patients/clients (since sobrang matumal or benign yung consultation dito), target population niya was mga Indigents (4P’s Beneficiary and DSWD MembeBeneficiary) living from far flung areas.
During those said week, what I did was nag insist ako na magpabayad ng “Medical Certificate” amounting 150php per patient (100 para sa akin, 50 sa DC), when the program started.
I did appraised to the Patient na may babayaran sila and they did agree. Part kasi siya of the required documents aside from certificate of indigency for approval of financial support.
May questions, mga Attorney. Legal po ba un ginawa ko, na nagpabayad or nag demand ako for payment?
Btw, Hindi ako employee sa Diagnostic Center na ito because I haven’t signed any contract sa kanila pa.
Thank you!

Hello all,
I was wondering if anybody knew any good sources regarding whether or not a build is actually safe to use. I looked at lumber tables like this, but they don't make any sense to me.
I recently put together an A frame swing set with the hardware at the top corners. I used pine 4"x6"x16' for the cross member and pine 4"X4"16' for the legs. That makes the swing 14ft high with the brackets I purchased, (they're 2mm thick secured with stainless bolts). I have yet to stabilize it by adding the member to join the legs together.
I wanted to know if anybody knows if this would be unsafe to use, or if you had any resources available.
Thank you in advance.