First time applying for grad school, read some guides, did a thin twist by adding a personal story, would love your input:

Statement of Purpose
University of Michigan - Dearborn
Computer Science - Artificial Intelligence
Dear Recruitment Committee,
A recent study published in Science Robotics introduced the innovative concept of swarm drones—decentralized, artificially driven drones that operate without central radio communication, GPS, or motion tracking. These drones can navigate dense forests autonomously, avoiding obstacles and communicating with each other to prevent overlap. In a video accompanying the study, the drones collaborate seamlessly to locate a missing person in a dense forest.
While the missing person in the study was not truly lost, it raises an important question: what if they were? What advancements in robotics and artificial intelligence can we develop to ensure we can always find our loved ones when they go astray?
[FRIEND NAME] was a good friend of mine who attended [NEARBY] University, setting aside our schools' friendly rivalry. We stayed in touch regularly until [FRIEND NAME] went missing around July 6th. Her body was tragically found on July 12th in a quarry that police had searched just days before. The question that haunts me is, how could they have missed her the first time? Could she have been saved? Was she on the run? Why was my friend not found and rescued?
I often think about that study and [FRIEND NAME]. The potential of artificially intelligent drones organized in a swarm for search and rescue, much better coordinated than a human search party, gives me hope. I truly believe we could have saved [FRIEND NAME] and, even more importantly, we could save hundreds, if not thousands, of lost, missing, or abducted individuals before their trail goes cold.
Working at [PREVIOUS EMPLOYER NAME], a satellite defense contractor, has only deepened my belief in the potential for search and rescue operations. Artificial intelligence is already heavily used in image and radio processing. We have near-live satellite footage of certain areas, but there is a lack of coordination with local police stations to run AI queries on these images. How many abductions, kidnappings, or missing persons have already been captured by a satellite hundreds of kilometers above ground?
I aim to develop algorithms and structures to rapidly respond when it matters most, and I would love to pursue this goal at the University of Michigan.
With my background in computer science, extensive experience in data mining, software development, and scientific programming, I am confident in my ability to contribute to and thrive at the University of Michigan. One of my earliest projects involved using AI to predict the optimal number of employees needed for a nationwide firm deploying representatives for technology projects like Apple, Microsoft, and Intel. This project demonstrated my ability to tackle complex problems and deliver practical solutions.
I am eager to bring my skills and passion to the University of Michigan, where I can contribute to cutting-edge research in artificial intelligence and robotics. I believe that under the guidance of esteemed faculty and within a vibrant academic community, I can make significant strides toward realizing my vision of enhancing search and rescue operations through advanced AI technologies.
Sincerely,
[MY NAME]

I have a small business - 2 person, never going to make me rich, but I get to do the work in a way that is meaningful to me - that I need a cooling solution for. Second story of a mixed use commercial complex with a sloped roof. I was just given a quote for $34k to install a single zone mini split AC. I was expecting more of the $13-17k range. This is in the California Bay Area, near but not in silicon valley

Inclusions: Provide and install (1) 3 ton mini split system, Including :
Wall Mounted Fan Coil
Roof Mounted Condenser and support pad.
DX Refrigerant Piping
Wall Mounted programmable thermostat.
• Condensate pump and piping to closest drain.
• Electrical circuit from existing panel to equipment. Budget, a sight visit will be required to
confirm capacity.
• Rigging
• Start and test system.

And exclusions:

Overtime.
• Fire life safety system, fire life safety wire, Fire dampers and sprinklers.
• Permit and plan check fees.
• Structural engineering, Structural calculations and permit set drawings for
Owner and city review.
• Structural support or modifications.
• Line Voltage Electrical.
• Plumbing / condensate piping.
• DDC controls.
• Roof Screen.
• Architectural and wall work.
Cutting, patching or painting.
• Ceiling repair.
• Duct pressure or leak testing, Duct cleaning and Sound Testing.
• Performance of existing equipment andsystems.
• Warranty, repair or replacement of existing equipment.
• Decontamination and disposal or handling of hazardous materials or wastes.
• LEED or Third party commissioning and or documentation.
• Any work not mentioned above.

It also mentions that the project will require a roofing contractor, whose costs aren't included in this bid.
I've asked around, and the residential version of this install seems to have cost about $7-10k within the last 2-3 years.
Why is this bid so much higher? Is this a brush-off "happy price" bid or is this realistic? The person who I asked to review it (used to work in real estate so knows what bids are supposed to look like) said this was vague, had a longer list of exclusions than inclusions, some of which should have been included, and missing a bunch of details. Are commercial installs really 3-4x more expensive than residential? The leasing agent and/or property manager is the one who solicited this bid for me, so I'm wondering if that may have made a difference and they thought deeper pockets could afford it. Or, I could be just totally out of touch.
Thoughts from people who know how much this stuff actually costs would be much appreciated.
And yes, as a service providing business owner, I know that things cost what they cost, and good work doesn't come cheap, and I respect that the HVAC employees are skilled tradesmen and I value their expertise. This is just out of my wheelhouse and I want to know if that's a "go away" bid or a real one.

TLDR; how can I change the date of my phone hearing for a case my employers are appealing? I didn’t get the letter until 2 days beforehand and was told to submit evidence but I don’t have time!
I got a letter from IDES that my employer is once again appealing the approval for benefits that I’ve already received two or three times. I got a letter saying that there will be a phone hearing on Friday at 9am and to submit all evidence I have that proves why I should be eligible and why I told them that my termination reason are false accusations on my employers end.
A little backstory without giving any hints of my identity, (I may have old coworkers in here), when I first applied, I got denied of course then had a phone interview with IDES about the inconsistencies in my employer’s reason for termination and request for denial of benefits. My ex manager told ides that I was terminated for something that would severely affect my license but told me something completely different so I was absolutely dumbfounded when ides revealed that info to me. My employee file was submitted to ides for review and they stated that since the investigation was unfounded and I was not fired for my own wrongdoing, IDEA approved me for benefits.
My question is, I got this letter WEDNESDAY but the hearing is FRIDAY???? How would I go about getting that date pushed back so I can prepare for that? Can I even do that? Honestly I don’t need unemployment anymore because I just started a new job but I don’t want to just not show up because I’m sure they’ll make me pay them back and they don’t deserve that after fucking me over 😂
Yes I am speaking with a lawyer about this whole termination situation and legal action will be taken. I know this description is kinda vague but the case is strong.
Also, anyone know of any good employment lawyers in Illinois? 😂 my lawyer friend isn’t practicing anymore :(

My first full time job was at an online order warehouse for a major retail company. My particular job was easy. You only had to put away five items per minute to hit rate. You pushed around a cart filled with lidless plastic totes that had merchandise scanned into them. And you scanned merchandise onto shelves to stock them. The job is called stowing. There was a quantity stow option, so if you had a lot of items in a tote that was the same thing, you could grab a handful of them and scan them all in at once. If you were remotely smart and stayed on task, you could hit double the number you were supposed to without trying.
If you had an item that wouldn't work when you tried to scan into it, you would flag down someone with the job title of problem solver, and they would come over with a computer on a cart and fix it. Problem solvers were people who earned the job by being top performers in stow. I eventually worked my way to the job.
Shortly before I landed the job, they changed things with problem items. They had problem solvers stand with their computer in a central location, and people were supposed to just leave the stuff that didn't work off, then get right back to work. And the problem solver would fix it on their own time. It takes ten seconds or less to pick something up, set it down, and leave it off. My numbers practically doubled when this method of doing things was rolled out.
But most of our employees were morons, especially most of the boomers. Instead of leaving their stuff off where they are supposed to without being told and getting back to work automatically without being told, like an actual adult, they did everything BUT that.
They would stand and ramble on and on about the problems they were having while the problem solver tried to politely ignore them and work. And stand in LINE to do that. Or argue with the problem solver to fix their tote so they can get back to work without dropping it off "to save time" or "make things easier." Then act like the problem solvers were holding them up, even though we weren't holding them up at all. They were holding their selves up. Because "it takes five seconds." And keep in mind, the problem solver would be working on something and have to back out of whatever they were trying to do to appease the people bothering them. Then start over.
Their lack of self awareness was so astonishingly blatant they did not realize they shaved a lot more than five seconds off their production standing in line waiting with a bunch of morons doing the same thing. That lost production adds up fast in a department with a couple dozen people. But try as I might, I could not get this across to these people because apparently, they can't multiply.
Or, if there was no problem solver standing at their computer at a particular time because they were doing other work related things elsewhere, these people would stand and wait fifteen to twenty minutes for the problem solver to come back. Then get mad at the problem solver for having to wait. Even though they weren't supposed to stand and wait, they were supposed to leave their stuff off and go back to working.
Another thing these boomers would do to "save time" is if there was an item that gave them an error message, they would go back, retrace their steps, and write down all the bins they scanned items into. The problem solver, with a couple scans of the scanner on their computer, can pull all that information up in two seconds. One time, one of these boomers argued with me that all their problem needs is to have a new barcode printed despite the fact that was not the problem and I showed them on the screen that it wasn't.
We lost so much production we had multiple weeks of mandatory overtime extra days. And eventually, management implemented a "no talking to the problem solvers" rule, because of what stupid entitled time-wasting harassing morons the people that worked there at the time were.
Keep in mind, this was in the aftermath of the 2008 recession, which resulted in a lot of people screwed out of good paying professional jobs and being forced to take much crappier jobs just to stay afloat. Not all these people were uneducated stereotypes. Many of these people were educated and in more respectable jobs. One of these people was a former lawyer that got disbarred many years before, and ended up in real estate for awhile until the big crash.
It's been over a decade and a small percentage of me still wishes I could legally punch these people in the face for being so stupid and annoying. But obviously, I am not going to do that. Ugh....

I was offered shares in my company after I became a fully vested employee, I purchased 18,000 shares for under $5K. I haven't worked for this company for the past several years and received notification that they were going public, which became official recently. I just checked my portfolio and saw my current shares at just over 3,000.
I had talked with someone in financing when they first made the decision to go public as we (those of us who had shares) had to sign a bunch of paperwork. The office manager said something about doing a reverse split but she said that it was a good thing as it would increase the values of our shares. I don't see how going from 18,000 shares down to 3,000 is a good thing when I paid (rounding up) $5K for 18,000 and it's not like they refunded me my $5k or the difference. Is this right? If I sell my shares (once the waiting period is over) I'll actually lose money from the original cost of the investment.

Edit: spelling
TLDR; how can I change the date of my phone hearing for a case my employers are appealing? I didn’t get the letter until 2 days beforehand and was told to submit evidence but I don’t have time!
I got a letter from IDES that my employer is once again appealing the approval for benefits that I’ve already received two or three times. I got a letter saying that there will be a phone hearing on Friday at 9am and to submit all evidence I have that proves why I should be eligible and why I told them that my termination reason are false accusations on my employers end.
A little backstory without giving any hints of my identity, (I may have old coworkers in here), when I first applied, I got denied of course then had a phone interview with IDES about the inconsistencies in my employer’s reason for termination and request for denial of benefits. My ex manager told ides that I was terminated for something that would severely affect my license but told me something completely different so I was absolutely dumbfounded when ides revealed that info to me. My employee file was submitted to ides for review and they stated that since the investigation was unfounded and I was not fired for my own wrongdoing, IDEA approved me for benefits.
My question is, I got this letter WEDNESDAY but the hearing is FRIDAY???? How would I go about getting that date pushed back so I can prepare for that? Can I even do that? Honestly I don’t need unemployment anymore because I just started a new job but I don’t want to just not show up because I’m sure they’ll make me pay them back and they don’t deserve that after fucking me over 😂
Yes I am speaking with a lawyer about this whole termination situation and legal action will be taken. I know this description is kinda vague but the case is strong.
Also, anyone know of any good employment lawyers in Illinois? 😂 my lawyer friend isn’t practicing anymore :(

Throwaway for obvious reasons. TW: Suicide. So some context. I work/worked (recently submitted my two weeks) at a very high end gunshop. I typically dealt with higher end items and collector grade pieces. The people on the sales floor were very busy and I was called in as back up. I usually enjoyed when that happened to due to me not needing to hit a sales quota and can take my time with new customers, ensuring to answer any and all questions and generally be as approachable as possible as I am (was) very passionate about the sport/hobby. I have been in this industry for almost 10 years now and generally enjoyed it. Anyway, she came in looking like a deer in headlights, not an uncommon thing to see in a gunshop. One of my guys asked me if i could work with her due to everyone else being tied up. No worries, I love working with people, especially those new to firearms.
We spent a good 45 minuets to an hour going over options and pricing. She finally settled on a .22 caliber handgun and i knocked off some money on the ammo. For all intents and purposes allow me to reiterate that I have been in this industry for almost 10 years. I do my due diligence. I know which questions to ask and how to ask them. Besides, we spent a fair amount of time together. I asked her why she got into shooting. Her resposone was that several of her friends got firearms during 2020 and she wanted to learn more/target shoot with her friends. Seems pretty reasonable enough. General small talk, where she went to college and things like that since we were the same age. She even pointed out a typo in a massive display sign. I didnt see/feel any red flags. Pretty typical sale, nothing stuck out to me. She filled out the paper work, I ran her background check and she got an instant proceed. (For those that dont know, the background checks are run through an FBI database and they give you one of three answers. 1. Proceed 2. Delay 3. Deny.) I ring up the sale, and wrote my personal contact info and the contact info of a local trainer I have good rapport with. She paid, thanked me and left.
The following morning I came in as per usual, and was prepping for my day. I get paged to come to the office as there were local PD that wanted to speak to me. PD: "Are you employee #?" M: "yeah, why?" PD: "Did you sell any [insert brand] yesterday?" M: "Youre going to have to narrow that down" PD: "[This brand] .22 LR?" M: "okay, yea [Insert the transaction details here.]" PD: "anything seem odd about that sale?" M: "honestly, no. Pretty friendly customer, very kind. Standard sale." M: "Am I in any sort of trouble?" PD: "No, we recovered the firearm at a crime scene and needed to determine if it was a homicide or not" M: "is [insert customer name] okay?" PD: "well we found her body and just wanted to follow up. Thanks have a good day"
Im going to be completely honest, after the PD left and I was alone, I broke down. Ive have had several friends over the years "check out early" to the point where I swore I'd never go to another funeral for someone my age or younger than me again. I know that pain. I know it all too well.
I hate to say, this isnt a first. Its somewhat par for the course in this industry, but she immediately took her life after the transaction. Usually, these type of things (PD involvement) are a simple phone call asking for the paperwork. I cant help to feel like I failed. Like I failed to catch something or notice something or maybe I didnt ask the right questions or not enough questions. Was there anything I could have done different? This felt personal to me. I hardly knew anything about her other than where she went to school and that she majored in English and had a keen eye for grammatical typos. I do know that she was kind. This fucking hurt. It has been over a year since this occurred and it still keeps me up at night some nights.
If you have read this far, I appreciate you giving me the space to vent. With all of my rambling concluded, I want to leave you with this: You never know what people are going through, be kind. If you or anyone in your life are showing signs of need support, I beg you, please reach out. The number here in the US is: 988
Please dont feel any any shame reaching out, Id rather you reach out than not be here. This chance meeting is one that I will carry with me for a long time.

Please see previous post for further news: https://www.reddit.com/arknights/comments/1ct4sva/concept_pv4_puzzle_reveals_a_huge_news/
Original source: https://nga.178.com/read.php?tid=40185395, all translated by GPT4.
Recording 1: The custodians, 9th of March, 200 91 629
我还记得，最后一次和你辩论的时候，你说自己绝对不会再和蠢人共事，就算这个蠢人，是宇宙里最后一个还在尝试挽救文明的人。呵，现在看来，我也是一个蠢人。但我绝对不是最后一个试图再做点什么的人。想必这个时候，你一定已经和家人做了告别。但他们一定不会知道，你不会进入石棺，我们都清楚。保存者计划没有得到很多支持，原因不是这项计划没法拯救所有人，而是必须有人为此付出残忍的牺牲。你会独自度过漫长的时光。而我会等待阳光，从轨道反射镜都散去。熄灭我面前的这盏灯。弗里斯顿，泰拉上的最后一个蠢人，向你告别。
I still remember the last time we argued, you said you would absolutely never again work with fools, even if that fool was the last person in the universe trying to save civilization. Ah, it seems I am also a fool now. But I am definitely not the last one trying to do something more. By now, you must have already said goodbye to your family. But they definitely won't know that you won't enter the sarcophagus, we both know that. The Preservation Project didn't get much support, not because it couldn't save everyone, but because it required someone to make a cruel sacrifice. You will spend a long time alone. And I will wait for the sunlight, after it scatters from the orbital mirrors. To extinguish the lamp before me. Friston, the last fool on Terra, bids you farewell.
Recording 2: The forsterer(sound, not know what word yet), 23rd of December, 200 28 216
洛，很抱歉没能继续回复你，但这是一个迟到的好消息。你在深蓝之树的那几位几公里长的大朋友，他们活体组织样本的环境适应性分析已经全部完成。从分析结果来看，他们能从毁灭中幸存下来。但他们也需要很多时间，才能成为播撒新希望的航船。洛，请不要认为你的成功对我们来说为时已晚，让他们活下去吧。这些美丽的海洋生灵没有必要加入我们的毁灭，未来也许他们会带上我们留下的一点点尘埃，向冰冷的虚空迈出一步。
Luo, I'm sorry for not being able to continue responding, but here is some belated good news. The environmental adaptability analysis of the living tissue samples from those several-kilometer-long big friends at the Deep Blue Tree has been completed. According to the results, they can survive the destruction. However, they will need a lot of time before they can become vessels that sow new hope. Luo, please do not think that your success comes too late for us; let them live on. These beautiful marine creatures need not join in our destruction, and perhaps in the future, they might carry a bit of the dust we leave behind and take a step into the cold void.
Recording 3: The security, 16th of January, 200 29 956
爱德，这是我最后一次向你说明我的看法。很快，所有的人造天体都会成为轨道上的墓碑，再也没人可以对他们发号施令，你也一样。我还记得你的小副业，那家开在拖船里的老餐馆，没有合成设备，只有围裙和烤炉，而你是最后一个知道怎么宰杀动物、怎么把他们加工成食物的人。你总是反对我们遗忘，所以爱德，我希望你能够理解，我们需要的不是胜利，是存续。天堂支点的确是一件强大的武器，但我们的敌人无法被武器打倒，设置(……杂音)没有意义。
Ed, this is the last time I will explain my viewpoint to you. Soon, all artificial celestial bodies will become tombs in orbit, with no one to command them, and you will be no exception. I still remember your little side business, that old restaurant in a tugboat, with no synthetic equipment, just aprons and ovens, and you were the last person who knew how to slaughter animals and turn them into food. You always opposed our forgetting, so Ed, I hope you can understand that what we need is not victory, but survival. The Pivot of Heaven is indeed a powerful weapon, but our enemy cannot be defeated by weapons, making the setting (…static) meaningless.
Recording 4: The Lumberer (no dates)
请想象一片不完美的树林，昆虫与飞鸟并不常见，也没有狩猎的野兽在其中漫步。有时，两颗原本相差无几的树苗，一颗夭折于幼年，另一颗却长出了繁盛的树冠；有时某些树木会投下恶意的影子，让他们的邻居在阴影中枯萎。这些都算不上多么可怕的事，毕竟他们只是树木而已。但是在这片树林里住着一位伐木工，伐木工勤劳地挥动着斧子，树木在他面前一一倒下，无论他们的枝杈是否蓬勃、果实是否甜美、叶片在阳光下是什么颜色。没有哪棵树了解这位伐木工的来历，那些古老的树木早已沉寂，也没有哪棵树能阻止伐木工挥动斧子，再盘根错节的枝干也会被劈开。你相信吗？竟然有这样一片树林，这样一位伐木工。好，我们继续。这一天，伐木工照常举起了斧子，又一棵树在他面前倒下，可伐木工转身离去后，树桩里溢出了树脂，把断裂的枝干粘合在一起。伐木工清理出的空地再一次长满了树木，而且还不止于此，透明的树脂吞没了这片只存在于故事里的树林，你眼前很快就只剩下一枚漂亮的琥珀，没有随风而动的树木和伐木工的斧子，也没有分型、函数、与哲学的纤维在湿润的土壤中生长。现在，我需要你记住这枚琥珀的样子，它真的很美。
Imagine an imperfect forest, where insects and flying birds are uncommon, and there are no hunting beasts wandering through it. Sometimes, two seedlings, hardly different from each other, end up with different fates: one dies young while the other grows a lush canopy; sometimes some trees cast malicious shadows that cause their neighbors to wither in the shade. These are not terrible things, after all, they are just trees. But in this forest lives a lumberjack, who diligently swings his axe, felling trees regardless of whether their branches are thriving, their fruit is sweet, or what color their leaves are in the sunlight. No tree knows the origin of this lumberjack, the ancient trees have long been silent, and no tree can stop the lumberjack from swinging his axe, even the most intricately entwined branches are split apart.
Do you believe it? There really is such a forest, such a lumberjack. Good, let’s continue. One day, as usual, the lumberjack raised his axe, and another tree fell before him. But after the lumberjack turned and left, resin flowed out from the stump, binding the broken branches together. The clearing made by the lumberjack once again grew full of trees, and more than that, the clear resin engulfed this forest, which exists only in stories, and soon all you see before you is a beautiful piece of amber. There are no trees swaying with the wind, no axe of the lumberjack, nor any fibers of division, function, or philosophy growing in the moist soil. Now, I need you to remember what this amber looks like, it is truly beautiful.

My name is Emily. I'm from the United States and I wanted to end my 20's with a bang, and I'm happy to say that I ended my 20's in Korea.Actually, Korea was not a country that I had much to do with.Originally, I was a person who was immersed in Japanese culture since college.Japanese anime became my friend. There's a lot of interesting things about Japanese anime, like the fact that they depict real places in Japan, and they depict real food, and so I fell in love with Japan, and I even traveled to Japan a couple times, and I thought that Japan was the sum of everything that I longed for.
But then, in my late 20s, I met a friend who would change my life. It was a simple meeting with a long-lost college classmate, Sarah, who had gone on to work at a large firm in New York City, and whom I had shared anime and Japanese food with in my dorm room in college. She told me honestly that she had recently traveled to Korea and was seriously thinking about moving there. Unfortunately, the large company she worked for in New York had recently gone through a business crisis, and she was laid off.
She said that she was confused by the sudden betrayal of a well-known company, and to clear her mind, she went to the airport with the intention of leaving anywhere. She thought she would go to Japan, but when she arrived at the airport, she changed her mind. When she thought back to the places and restaurants she frequented most often while working at the company in New York, she remembered that she often went to Korean streets and Korean supermarkets in New York, and she thought that going to Korea on an impromptu trip was a really good idea, so she chose to go to Korea rather than Japan, which she already knew.
And buying a plane ticket on the spot at the airport was more than twice as expensive as booking a ticket in advance, but Sarah said that she didn't care, because she was depressed after being fired from her job, and she went to the airport to leave, but the curiosity about Korea that came over her made her want to leave right away, even if she had to pay for the expensive plane ticket.
He expressed that although he went to the airport courageously, he knew that the plane ticket would be too expensive, and he thought that maybe he should just go back home again, but his curiosity about Korea came from somewhere deep inside him, and it exploded like a bomb, and he was naturally drawn to it.
Sarah, who likes emotional things like essays and poems in college and enjoys such poetic expressions, but even so, I wondered if it was a little overdone, but when she said that she had been to Korea, I became more focused on her story.
However, I was able to understand why she expressed herself in such an over-the-top way after listening to her Korean stories.
"Korea is an amazing place, the people are so kind and warm, and most of all, the employment system is very well organized. There are many programs and support for job seekers, which is very helpful for people who are in a difficult situation like me."
When Sarah started with this story, I realized that she was really traumatized by being laid off.Now, she had been through a big ordeal and was in the process of recovering from it through Korea, so I decided to focus more on her story."You said you traveled to Korea, so what else did you do?" I asked."For example, what kind of programs were there?" I asked her.
"I happened to visit a job fair in Korea," she said, "where job seekers can get free career counseling and get the training they need." "I got a lot of help there, and it gave me the strength to get back on my feet, and maybe even get a job in Korea." "And most of all, the work culture in Korea is really family-like," she said, "I was impressed by how much my coworkers cared about each other and supported each other."
Sarah said that she was curious about what Korea was like, so she visited a large convention center in Korea and participated in various fairs, one of which was a job fair, and she interviewed with several Korean companies, and the Korean companies were ready to accept her as a colleague if she applied as an American. I also learned that Korea has many companies with global reach, and they are open to foreigners with various experiences, but in Korea, unless it is a large company, people don't prefer them, so if it is a small company, they want foreigners, but there is a sad reality that no one applies.
Unlike in the U.S., where you have to report your performance every week, and if you fall short, you are threatened with termination, Korean companies are definitely not more performance-oriented than in the U.S. They value their employees and do everything together to grow together, not threaten them with termination. In the past, I knew that corporate culture in Asian countries such as Korea was more collectivistic than individualistic, and as a student, I thought that such a collectivistic culture was a bad culture with a high level of disease in Asia, but after experiencing social life in the United States, I heard that the tendency of companies to be extremely individualistic, talking about job insecurity, and treating people ruthlessly, caused me to be fired from a good job overnight, and the future plans I had planned in advance became uncertain, and I even talked about envying the Korean culture that does not have such disadvantages.
Sarah, who has never worked in Korea, but was always afraid of being fired, said that she learned a lot about Korean corporate culture by interviewing many Korean company officials.
She said that she even considered settling down and living in Korea because, besides the culture, there were so many other conveniences and benefits.
She talked about her experience of working in New York, being left alone in the office to get things done because of her performance, having to leave late at night and being afraid to go home, sleeping in the hotel next door, and having to live with the exorbitant rent in Manhattan and the two-hour round-trip commute to work, and how she realized that unlike in the U.S., where it is difficult to see a doctor, she would not have to worry about these things in Korea.
Sarah's story made me even more curious about Korea.The warmth, systematic system, and various charms that she experienced in Korea couldn't help but have a great impact on me.I've been experiencing a lot of stress every day due to the pressure of performance and the threat of being fired, and I've recently been undergoing expensive psychotherapy.I decided to learn more about Korea, and eventually decided to travel to Korea.
Of course, I didn't travel to Korea with the intention of moving to Korea or settling down in Korea, but rather to spend my last 20s in a new country, Korea, and to see a different world than the familiar Japan.
I made my preparations and headed to Korea sooner than I expected, arriving ten days before my birthday and extending my itinerary beyond what I had originally planned, staying in Korea until after my birthday and then flying back to the United States.
The first day I finally arrived in Korea, I started walking around the streets of Seoul.The first thing that greeted me was the warm spring weather in Korea.The sky was clear and the air was crisp.I was told that it is common for Asia to have very bad air quality in the spring due to the influence of China, but I didn't have to deal with that during my trip.
The streets of Korea are very different from the United States, and everything was new to me.There were many beautiful flowers in bloom, and the well-maintained trees were really beautiful.It has been a long time since the common people's neighborhoods in the United States have such beautiful landscaping because of people who destroy these trees and flowers for no reason, or secretly take them and sell them.But this was not the case in Korea.The streets were like a beautiful flower garden.
I was walking down a beautiful street lined with flowers, and I was looking at them, looking at the big big map that was displayed on the screen at the bus stop.I was just curious to see what my neighborhood looked like, so I was looking at the map and taking my time, and a middle-aged woman came up to me and said, "Where are you looking for?" She didn't speak fluent English, but I was so grateful that she was trying to help. I was too embarrassed to tell her that I was just looking at the map, so I told her one of the destinations I was planning to go to, and she gave me direct directions to the place I was looking for, and I was able to get there without any difficulty.This unexpected kindness opened my eyes to the Korean people and warmed my heart at the same time.
I was ready to accept everything in Korea with an open mind.The first impression was very good, I was touched by the kindness of the people.I couldn't ask for anything more from Korea.The food was so fresh and amazing to me.I visited Gwangjang Market, a famous traditional market in Korea.
Unlike a regular restaurant, it was a place where you could sit down and try a variety of food. As a traditional market, it was full of Korean food. There were no pizza, pasta, or burger joints, but I liked it better that way. It was a place where you could see the traditional look and feel curious about everything.
I also tasted foods such as tteokbokki sundae and hotteok.Everything else was fine, but I was a little worried when I first tried sundae because it looked so strange and a little gross, but I decided to give it a try and the moment I put it in my mouth, the rich flavor filled my mouth.Korean food often seems difficult to eat, but when you try it, you can see why it is so popular in Korea.
I stayed at Gwangjang Market for a long time and tried a lot of different foods, especially kimchi and pajeon, which I still remember because of their crispy texture and spicy flavor. I would recommend them to everyone.Experiencing the deep flavors of Korean food firsthand made me fall in love with Korean food.
And then there was a shocking thing that happened to me in Korea.I was having a lot of fun traveling around Korea and everything was interesting, because Korea is really the best place to be, you know, you're running around, you're busy, you're going from place to place, and I had the misfortune of losing my passport, which was really stupid.
I was traveling in Korea, and I got an international call. Someone was calling me from Korea, and when I saw the international call indicator on my phone and realized that the call was from Korea, I had a million questions.
I thought I shouldn't answer the call, but then I realized that it was an international call, and I thought maybe they were calling me because they had some business to take care of. I answered the call, and I was told a really crazy story, because I heard a calm English voice asking if it was Emily, and she introduced herself as a police officer and asked if I could come to the nearest police station.
I thought I had done something terribly wrong, because I had just eaten delicious tteokbokki and sundae, kimchi and pajeon, and I was so happy to eat them, and afterward I was just walking around the streets of Korea, smelling the flowers and seeing the pretty trees.
I started to check my belongings one by one and realized that my small pouch containing my passport and some of the money I had exchanged was missing.
I quickly headed to the police station, which was where I was told to go, and from the front gate, I was controlled as to what I was visiting.
The great thing about Korea is that even for someone like me who doesn't speak Korean, it's not difficult to navigate these government offices. Not all Koreans speak English, but at least the ones I've met have been able to communicate with me in a simple way. Even if they don't speak perfect sentences, they understand most of the words, so I was able to communicate the reason for my visit to the police station.
I had never been to a police station before, even in the U.S., but here I was in Korea, and I was greeted by friendly people.The pouch with my passport in it had my contact information written on the inside, and they said they would contact me with that.The bag was found in a marketplace, and the first person to report it was the stall owner of the place where I had my first sundae.It also had all of my clean, new Korean money in it, which I had exchanged separately.
I was so impressed with how conscientious Koreans are and how good they are that I was able to find the pouch, sign the paperwork, and walk out of the police station.
I went back to Gwangjang Market, and when I got there, the owner recognized me and looked like he was about to say something. I held out the bag and showed it to him, and he smiled and liked it.
I thanked the Korean boss, and we ate another snack on the spot. It was an experience that made me realize how heavenly Korea is.
And like Sarah said, I didn't just want to see how clean and pretty Korea is, I wanted to see what an American working in Korea could do and what life would be like.Through the Reddit community, I was able to get in touch with Americans working in Korea and even met some of them in person.
David, the American I met, works for a company that is not a large Korean company, but rather a small or medium-sized company. As Sarah said, Korea is a country where products are produced for the global market, and many things are actually exported overseas.
However, in Korea, unless it is a large company, every company is experiencing a job shortage, and because of the atmosphere in Korea, where foreigners are not welcome at all, it is not difficult to get a job in a company that specializes in exporting overseas, even if you are in the United States.
And David told me that he put all his passion into the first company he worked for in the U.S., and even made a lot of money for the company, but when he didn't perform, the company fired him without mercy, and he said that he was so shocked, not to mention the feeling of betrayal, that he took depression medication at that time, and it was so hard that he took depression medication, and then he found Korea by chance and settled in Korea, and now he is so happy. He told me that he was fired from his job because of the unrelenting treatment in the U.S., that he found a second chance in Korea, and that he is happy with his life here.
I'm not sure I have the courage to move to Korea right now, but I learned that there are a lot of people like Sarah and David who have been hurt so badly that they end up leaving the country. I'm scared that this could be my future, but I also learned that Korea is an option for me if it happens to me.My trip ended like this: experiencing the culture, food, and hospitality of Korea, and getting to meet and talk to Americans living in Korea, made my trip much more rewarding than my trip to Japan, which could have been an anime trip.
Korea has given me new perspectives and experiences, shattered my notion that Japan is only good, broadened my horizons, and opened my eyes to another gem that is Korea.
I now like to say to my friends, "Go to Korea, you'll see how good it is." Korea has taught me so much, and I will cherish my experience in Korea, which now holds a special place in my heart.
If Sarah goes to Korea and settles down, I will be there to congratulate her and support her in her new relationship in Korea.

but the number is not as big as Vuong Pham's hope and it does not change the Vinfast's financial situation in a meaningful way.
Don't fall to the easy way of dimissing the numbers as fake. You have no way to prove that. But after all, the number is dismal and not meaningful. Only Vinfans are saying it is good. What they say is not necessarily true. The number is not good. 100K might be good but not 27K.
See the detailed analysis here: It is official: Vinfast sold 27,649 VF3 after 66 hours :
Instead, when combating Vinfans on VF3, point out that:
1/ selling 27K (actually reservation) is not enough for one week of Vinfast expense. A lot can be changed between now and delivery. Pleasanton lawsuit is coming by then.
2/ VF3 is not competitive outside of Vietnam. Vinfans are already puming that Vinfast can repeat the sales elsewhere. Not in the US. Not in India. Not in other South East Asia. There are already as cheap and better cars from BYD, Geely, SAIC, Tata. Vinfans always think Vinfast exists on its all and there is no competition, which is stupid.
VF3 won't get any NCAP rating by August and they are very likey to have a lot of bugs at release, like every other Vinfast model. Absolutely sure. QA and QC take time.
3/ The majority of VF cars are currently stuffed to GSM, and taxi drivers are the one who know of the Vinfast cars' problems the most but as employees, they do not tell about these problems. In contrast, if these 27K people get the buggy VF3, it will create a storm of bad reports. See how many times Vuong Pham's seemingly genius move backfire? Shipping 999 buggy VF8 to the US was smart? Well, it resulted in a fatal crash of four now.
4/ A significant portion of buyers are Vin employees and fans. Outside of this base, the number will drop sharply. VF3 are certainly not for the mass as Vuong Pham's hope. He keeps seeding VF3 for the mass because he knows 27K is not enough.
What you can do is to spread the truth in this sub to friends to combat the dirty tricks by Vuong Pham.
And he is surely very scared of the truth.

You’d be happy to know that despite my best efforts to label you as the reason I was stressed, I was wrong.
You’d be happy to know I haven’t thought of you in 30 seconds.
You’d be happy to know I broke that streak.
You’d be happy to know that I’m a donor.
You’d be happy to know I haven’t had a cigarette in 109 days.
You’d be happy to know I sleep better.
You’d be happy to know I dream of you more.
You’d be happy to know I cry about her every day.
You’d be happy to know I’ve kept her things for you, just in case.
You’d be happy to know that I don’t look for you in everything like I used to. I see you in everything. You’ve given me an interest in architecture. You’ve given me an idea of what I want my children to be like, how I’d like for them to be raised. With that gentle, caring and compassionate demeanor. The same way you’d raised her. God she was so good, wasn’t she? She was good because you’re so good.
I meant for this to be a poem of sorts, but I’m tired of speaking so vaguely. I’m tired of trying to think of clever little signs to leave you, that only you would understand.
I just want to say how I feel.
It’s hard to believe that someone with so much goodness, just this genuine kindness, can truly exist in such a world. I avoid all of it, because it hurts so much to know that it can be so cruel. But you show it just how much sun there is to shine.
You and her both.
I’ll miss her for the rest of my life.
But I don’t have to miss you forever. You and I can still figure it out.
I hope we do. I hope you’ll visit someday.
I really need your guidance right now. I’m sorry again, that it took me so long to realize what was going on in my head.
It’s funny, how people like me can be mistook the way we are because of how we register social situations. Or like, our inability to register social cues the same way.
I laugh sometimes, about the instances in which I can remember people looking at me funny after I’d talked. LOL.
Good thing I don’t experience embarrassment, eh?
I like myself, regardless of what others honk I am supposed to be. But I’d truly love myself if I never let you go.
How could I be so reactionary? So stupid?
Where was this level headedness when I had you?
I know I keep saying “last one”, but I’ll probably spend a good amount of time writing to you. Even when you’re right next to me, sleeping off the night before.
Forever and always, Yours.

I rarely find a poet who is consistently good and whose poems (at least most of them) I really enjoy. It's kind of like CDs I would purchase back in the day. There would be 1-2 great songs, 2-3 good songs, and then like 10 songs that were meh or bad.
Yeah, I know, what works for one person may not work for another. But I'm curious if you have found a poet (or more than one) who is consistently good. Like you open his or her collection of 100 poems and you find like over 75 or 80 of them to be delightful. I mean the kind of poems you read over and over, repeat in your head, and just savor. Could be contemporary or not, doesn't matter.

Edit: Ouch. Sorry I asked. I get tl;dr but forget it's taken everything over and details are dead. Twitter really did a number. I shortened it a bit, but likely not enough. I'll can it and take my leave if it's that big of a problem. Just wanted some advice from fellow purgatory workers.
First, hey old friend. Know you're here. You commented on my last one and yes, it was our store. Thanks for being a good one. You're missed.
So, join me on this trainwreck so I can maybe figure out what the hell is going on and what others would do...Because I haven't even heard of situations like this, let alone been in one.
I was injured in a car accident back in May, I have vestibular damage causing me a lost sense of equilibrium and constant nausea. I first went to an injury chiropractor, he set me up for 3x weekly appointments, and referred me out to neurology, whom referred me out to 3x weekly physical therapy, and requires I go back to them for neurological testing at least monthly. I was out of work for 6 days following the injury because I didn't want to lose my pay, and have been in since, popping my zofran, nurtec, and nsaids like they're candy to get by.
Suddenly I had a ton of weekly appointments, but I opened an intermittent leave case with Sedgwick. Sedgwick has taken until this week to approve anything, and initially had denied my case citing insufficient information even though they were given paperwork on three occasions regarding my needs. They claimed they never received anything when I spoke to them on Friday, but suddenly every claim was approved after I told HR about their "missing" paperwork.
My RXOM was wonderful and would work with me on my appointments, I'd leave a little early, or take a slightly extended lunch break, but the store manager wasn't okay with it. We had no RXM when it began, but once she started, she let me leave twice for my appointments when the RXOM wasn't in.
Last week I looked at my schedule and saw I was off every day I had an appointment. This is what she kept telling my RXOM to do, and she wouldn't. So...store manager took her scheduling privileges. This sent me off, and I filed a retaliation and hostile work environment report with HR over email. Not even including my situation, it is an absolutely intolerable environment.
On Monday I couldn't use the time clock, it was acting like my employee ID didn't exist. Weird. But my RXOM (who quit the day after, good for her) was able to clock me in so I didn't sweat it. I left for physical therapy without approval, but with two weeks notice in which it could have been approved. HR called as I was pulling back in to work asking for clarification on my case...and things are just even more weird now.
I was pulled aside yesterday by the RXM and let know that my RXOM was wrong and I need to hand my appointments to her as soon as possible so she can work with the store manager to get coverage. Okay, sure. They were already all in the system as denied requests, but whatever, here's your list of what I know now.
Today, I was pulled aside again and let know that actually, they checked with Sedgwick and HR and they said they need three weeks notice for any appointments to be approved and for me to not face repercussions, so after my appointment on Friday, I need to tell them I need to be scheduled three weeks out. That's great but this was a sudden thing requiring care several times a week. There is no three weeks notice, it's not even possible.
So I haven't been able to clock in for days, but I'm handing in my time and was even asked to work overtime tonight due to resignations. Another employee came to me and said they can't put me on the schedule for some reason but I can consider my hours as another employee who is started leave today. He's on the schedule...as me. I went in to see, and apparently according to compass, I was terminated on Sunday. I literally joked about it on Monday, "oh, maybe I was fired and everyone forgot to tell me" - but, I mean…that's what this looks like. If I try to view any weeks following this one, it says I'm not an eligible employee. So, I can't even see the hours for the person I'm pretending to be next week. What the hell.
So I've worked days with no true documentation of those hours. Now my hours are being logged under another employee...and, I'm here wondering how payroll is going to work if I'm fired in the system. 🤔 There is no way my pay isn't messed up next check. No way. What do I do?
Do I refuse to go in because if my account has been deactivated and I can't clock in and have documentation of my time, I won't work until I can do so? Make them fix it?
Do I go in on the next day the SM is in and wring her out like a towel figuring out how it happened? I'm genuinely fine if they do fire me after that. I've got something lined up but was simply trying to avoid a lapse in pay between the two…the sooner the better.
Do I work and just keep handing my hours in and hope for the best?
Do I hire another attorney since mine doesn't do employment stuff?
The store manager won't truly speak to me about the matter. She tells other managers to tell me what she has to say. It's absurd. But, I have no desire to speak to her either, so I guess I get it.
And to top it all off, all anyone says is get as much as you can on paper. I have nothing. Nothing at all. I don't even know what to get or how I'd get it.
Should I just walk the fuck out and let it go? I feel bad for the others, we're already drowning...but it's going to compound anyway.
Y'all got thoughts?

Disillusioned with the current job market? I get it, I really do. As if sifting through thousands of opportunities, writing a cover letters, going through 3 rounds of interviews, and all of the “homework assignments” isn’t enough? But we CAN’T forget to add a deep dive search into your potential employer’s background to the list because the amount of pyramid scheme/predatory companies out there is only increasing and they’re getting more and more sophisticated.
I’m have one intention; to prevent others from falling prey to the same predatory and morally corrupt situation that I found myself in. Thank god (or whomevewhatever is pulling the strings out there) for good friends with a knack for uncovering company's secrets or I would be working for a MLM right now. The company is called Silver Lining Marketing Inc. and they’re office is located in Gretna, LA (but operates in the greater New Orleans Area). They have an actual office, with employees and everything. They even make their employees wear business professional clothing so as to appear more legitimate. They have a functioning website, which once I actually read everything on their website, I realized that they aren’t really marketing the non-profits they fundraise for, but rather they are marketing job opportunities and personal growth within their company.
I applied to a job listing on indeed for an executive management position with Silver Lining Marketing Inc. with $75-100K compensation, which sounds great, right? You go through 3 rounds of interviews which end with an in-person interview with one of the “Team Leaders” and then their CEO. Everyone is SO nice and they do a great job of making the office feel “fun and supportive”. They don’t give you the job on the spot but rather wait at least a day or two to contact you after your final interview, so it appears as though this is a competitive and desirable position. Once you’re hired the switch flips and you’re finally made aware that you will not reach the executive manager position for about a year and this is how they get you!
First you will start out in an entry level “training” position for about a month where the pay is a measly $12/hr, but you get 20% of one-time donations and 1X monthly donations…which I don’t know how anyone sees any of that “bonus” money because they are still training and not “out in the field”. It was at this point that I asked what “out in the field” meant. I wrongfully assumed that in this position I would be doing event planning for galas, dinners, and any other kind of fundraising event…but man was I wrong! “Out in the field” actually translated to going to Walmart, CVS, various grocery stores, ect for 8 hours with a clipboard and harassing strangers for donations to various non-profits. Thats how they make their “bonuses” and I HIGHLY DOUBT that the people they coerced into donating their hard-earned money would still want to donate if they knew that approximately 40% of that donation would be going in to the pocket of a for-profit marketing firm. They have you wear clothing with the non-profit’s logo on it so that people think you work for the non-profit and they also tell you to never tell the donors that you take a (hefty) percentage of the money that they think is being donated in its entirety to the non-profit.
After about a month you move up to a leadership role. The leadership level is split in to 3 tiers; Jr. leader, Core leader, and Sr. leader. You’re still making $12/hr by the way, BUT WAIT, now you’ll get 20% of any one-time donations you 1.5X any monthly donations you receive. When you move to the Core leadership level you get a “growth bonus” which I was told is $200, hooray?? Upon reaching the Sr. leadership role you’re still at $12/hr but now you get 20% of one-time donations and 2X monthly donations. According to the employee I spoke to, new employees typically spend around 16-20 weeks in this role. At this point you are responsible for set up and break down of “events” in “the field”, your team of $12/hr cronies, and the money collected at the “events”. To move to the next tier, which is assistant manager, one must first indoctrinate 4 other people and at least 1 of those 4 people has to make it to a Sr. leadership role. This means you have to get at least 4 more suckers to work for 12/hr before you can be promoted, is this starting to sound familiar? In addition to your recruitment goals, you must also get at least 10K in one-time donations and 1K in monthly donations for 2 weeks in a row.
When you get to the third level you become assistant manager and you are STILL MAKING $12/hr, but don’t get your panties in a bunch because WOAH now you’re make 20% on one-time donations and 3X monthly donations. The assistant manager role typically last about 8-12 weeks and it is in this role that you learn the scripts and necessary brain-washing tools to start your very own MLM! The fourth and final level is executive manager and in this role you’re supposed to be making 75k-100k and be in charge of your own entire office of brainwashed underpaid employees and you get to rinse and repeat with all of the new hires.
These companies brainwash people in numerous ways. Every morning there is a meeting for an hour and half in which you stand up, yell mantras, clap, and get hyped up for a long day of skimming donations from various non-profit charities. They make sure everyone looks professional and has a “good attitude” to prevent people from getting spooked or god forbid thinking for themselves long enough to realize that they’re part of a pyramid scheme. How is this legal, you say!? Well, unfortunately it is legal but it absolutely should not be. See this particular company isn’t making you buy a product and then sell said product to make money, no no no, instead this company hides behind the good names of the charities that it “represents” while skimming money off the top of each donation. The Charities are getting donations they otherwise wouldn’t have so they're not motivated to do the necessary research in to the practices of the company that is paying them. I would also like to note that I don’t think that all of the people that currently work for or have worked for Silver Lining Marketing Inc. are terrible, morally corrupt, individuals because they at their core victims of this heinous system that judicial system has allowed to persist. This company targets kind-hearted individuals that want to help charities, individuals who typically don’t take a job just for the money. This allows them to guilt you in to working for an unlivable wage because, hey, you're making a difference and if you just work hard enough for a while then you’ll make lots of money and get to start your very own business!
I watched a youtube video on pyramid/MLM schemes called “The Slave Circle (Direct Marketing Devil Corp. Documentary)” and this video gave me the confidence I needed to tell the company that I would not work for them and why. I highly recommend watching the video if you think you might be falling prey to a company like Silver Lining Marketing Inc. Here’s the link; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wyCRzBt7GuY
Additionally, the Lula rich docuseries on amazon prime is worth a watch.
Lastly, I would like to say that if you or someone you know has been a victim of a fucked MLM like this, don’t turn to anger or vengeance. Don’t let this discourage you, these companies are so sophisticated and have scripted responses for every possible situation. They prey on good people and you are not a bad person if you fall for it, just don’t make that mistake again, learn from your errors, and PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE post about your experience on reddit, glassdoor, and anywhere else you feel comfortable so that you can prevent others from falling victim to the same situation!!
I really hope this helps others and if anyone has any specific questions, let me know in the comments and I’ll try to check in every so often and answer them.

Introduction
Are you tired of drowning in piles of paperwork and endless spreadsheets to manage your company’s HR processes? It’s time to bid farewell to these outdated methods and say hello to the world of HR management software! With technology revolutionizing the way we work, companies are increasingly turning to automated solutions to streamline their human resources operations. Let’s dive into the myriad benefits that come with utilizing HR management software in your organization.
Enhanced Efficiency and Productivity
In today’s fast-paced business environment, time is of the essence. That’s where HR management software steps in to streamline processes and boost productivity. By automating repetitive tasks like employee onboarding, leave requests, and performance evaluations, teams can focus on more strategic activities.
With a centralized database for all HR-related information, searching for employee records or updating payroll details becomes a breeze. This not only saves time but also reduces the likelihood of errors that manual data entry may incur.
Efficiency is further enhanced through features like task tracking and reminders which ensure that deadlines are met promptly. Managers can easily monitor progress and allocate resources accordingly without the hassle of constant follow-ups.
Using HR management software translates into a more efficient workflow and increased output from employees across all levels of the organization.
Improved Data Management and Security
In today’s digital age, data is a valuable asset for companies. HR management software plays a crucial role in improving data management and security within organizations. By centralizing all employee information in one secure platform, companies can ensure that sensitive data is protected from unauthorized access or breaches.
With features like role-based access controls and encryption protocols, HR software enhances data security measures to safeguard confidential information. This not only protects the company’s reputation but also ensures compliance with stringent data protection regulations.
Moreover, the automation capabilities of HR software reduce manual errors in data entry and processing, enhancing overall accuracy and reliability of employee records. This streamlined approach to managing data minimizes the risk of inconsistencies or inaccuracies that may occur with traditional paper-based systems.
Investing in HR management software not only improves operational efficiency but also strengthens data security practices within companies.
Better Decision-Making with Analytics
In today’s fast-paced business environment, making informed decisions is crucial for the success of any company. HR management software offers a valuable tool in this regard by providing access to insightful analytics. By analyzing data on employee performance, engagement levels, and training outcomes, decision-makers can gain a deeper understanding of their workforce.
With the help of analytics tools integrated into HR software, managers can identify trends and patterns that may not be apparent through manual tracking methods. This allows for proactive decision-making based on real-time information rather than relying on gut instinct alone. From predicting future staffing needs to assessing the impact of new policies or initiatives, data-driven insights empower leaders to make strategic choices that drive positive outcomes for the organization.
Furthermore, by leveraging predictive analytics capabilities within HR software, companies can anticipate potential challenges and opportunities before they arise. This foresight enables proactive planning and risk mitigation strategies that enhance overall business resilience. Better decision-making with analytics is a key benefit of using HR management software that empowers organizations to thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape.
Enhanced Employee Experience
When it comes to creating a positive work environment, employee experience plays a crucial role. HR management software can significantly enhance the overall employee experience within a company. By streamlining processes such as leave requests, performance evaluations, and training programs, employees can focus more on their work rather than administrative tasks.
Furthermore, with features like self-service portals and mobile access, employees have greater autonomy over their information and interactions with the HR department. This leads to increased transparency and communication between employees and management.
Moreover, personalized dashboards provided by HR software allow employees to track their performance goals, view feedback from managers, and easily access relevant company policies. This level of empowerment contributes to higher job satisfaction and engagement among employees.
In addition, automated reminders for important dates like birthdays or work anniversaries demonstrate that the company values its employees’ contributions. These small gestures go a long way in fostering a sense of belonging and appreciation within the organization.
Cost Savings
One significant benefit of using HR management software in companies is the potential for cost savings. By automating various HR processes, such as payroll, benefits administration, and recruitment, organizations can streamline operations and reduce manual errors.
With efficient workflows and integrated systems, businesses can save both time and money that would otherwise be spent on labor-intensive tasks. Additionally, by centralizing data storage and access through the software, companies can avoid duplication of efforts and minimize administrative overhead costs.
Furthermore, improved compliance with regulations and standards facilitated by HR software helps mitigate legal risks that could result in costly penalties or lawsuits. By ensuring accurate record-keeping and adherence to policies, organizations can safeguard themselves against financial liabilities.
Investing in HR management software not only enhances operational efficiency but also contributes to long-term cost savings for businesses of all sizes.
Scalability and Flexibility
Scalability and flexibility are essential factors for any modern company looking to thrive in a dynamic business environment. HR management software provides the flexibility to adapt to changing needs as a company grows. Whether it’s adding new employees, departments, or locations, the software can scale seamlessly without disrupting operations.
The ability to customize features based on specific requirements allows companies to tailor the software to meet their unique needs. This level of adaptability ensures that the system remains relevant and efficient over time. Additionally, cloud-based solutions offer even greater flexibility by allowing access from anywhere at any time.
Scalable HR management software empowers businesses to expand globally without worrying about logistical challenges. With automated processes and centralized data storage, managing a diverse workforce becomes more manageable. Embracing scalable solutions not only future-proofs your HR operations but also enhances overall organizational efficiency.
Conclusion
In today’s fast-paced business world, HR management software plays a crucial role in streamlining operations and enhancing overall efficiency. From improved data management to cost savings and scalability, the benefits of using HR software are undeniable.
By leveraging technology to automate processes, companies can boost productivity, make informed decisions with the help of analytics, and create a better employee experience. With enhanced security measures in place, organizations can also rest assured that their sensitive data is protected.
Investing in HR management software is not just about staying competitive; it’s about setting your company up for long-term success. So why wait? Embrace the power of technology and take your HR operations to the next level today!

So I’ve been really contemplating working for scooters! I’m just nervous, I last worked at Starbucks and loved making drinks! I just couldn’t stand the Starbucks work environment and entitlement! So employees, I have a question! Is scooters different in your opinion?? Is it a good environment? How does your store run, do you have fun?? Etc. any information and opinions would be wonderful!!

** BOTH FRI 5/17 AND SAT 5/18 *\*
Motorcycle Safety Foundation Ride Day New Mexico Motorcycle Safety Program, 3401 Pan American Fwy Take Your First Ride: Ride a motorcycle in 30 min or less for free. MOTO Intro provides the motorcycle, helmet, gloves, and coaching. Free Riding Skills Test: Take the challenge of an advanced MSF course! SKILL Check participants, bring your motorcycle and gear! Please wear over-the-ankle footwear, long pants and long sleeves

• Fri: 2 - 4 PM Skills Check, 4 - 6 PM Moto Intro
• Sat: 2 - 4:30 PM Moto Intro, 4:30 - 6:30 PM Skills Check

Niños and Teeños: Flamenco para todos Carlisle Gymnasium (Elizabeth Waters Center for Dance), UNM, 301 Yale Blvd. NE National Institute of Flamenco presents Niños y Teeños Flamencos in FUTUROS FLAMENCOS. Come see the high-energy flamenco of the National Institute of Flamenco's Student Companies. Don't miss this special showcase by talented youth in our community! (tickets)

• Fri: 7 PM
• Sat: 4 PM

** Fri 5/17 *\*
Fri 4:30 PM Bike to Wherever Day Canteen Brewhouse, 2381 Aztec Rd. NE Learn about exciting bike routes in Albuquerque and grab some cool giveaways to kickstart your cycling adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, there’s something for EVERYONE at our pop-up table! We'll have Canteen will be volunteering at a table from 6:30-9am and then again at 4:30-6:30am. Receive $1 off your beer if you arrive on your bike
Fri 5 PM Pistachio Cream Ale Release Tractor Brewing, ALL locations We're bringing back this seasonal favorite for American Craft Beer Week! Inspired by pistachios produced right here in New Mexico this brew is as smooth as silk and as tasty and a fresh roasted pistachio. This is a very limited one off for us, so come and get you a pint or growler while supplies last
Fri 5 – 7 PM May Babies Birthday Celebration Rio Bravo Brewing, 1912 2nd St. NW Starting at 5pm, the first 25 people with May birthdays to show Ryan proof of their birthday month will score a $5 Rio Bravo Brewing Gift Card...oh, and Beers are on special for birthday kids for just $5! But you spend your gift card however you want! Thanks to Cake Fetish...we'll have cupcakes for the May Birthday Kids (while supplies last) We'll have prizes JUST for the May Babies! We'll also have drawings for all you non-birthday folks too If you want to get their before us...All drinks are $1 Off for May Birthdays the whole day!
Fri 5:45 – 7:15 PM 22 Veterans Suicide Awareness WOD BFit505, 11500 Menaul Blvd. NE Each month, Team Bravo & Bfit505 team up to bring awareness to veteran suicide. Before our events, we will take a moment and talk about the issue. Then we will begin with our 22 reps WOD followed by a 2.2 mile ruck/walk/run. Afterwards, we will be going out to eat for social time with friends and family. This event is for all levels
Fri 6 PM Sandia Social - May Hangout Dawn Patrol Coffee Shop, 3619 Copper Ave NE We will be hanging out around the patio and inside starting at 6pm! Bring your friends and come hang out!
Fri 6 PM Pink Therapy, A Latin Dance Fundraiser for Breast Cancer Sobremesa, 3421 Coors Blvd. NW On The One and Pachanga Productions' "Salsa Therapy" night has made its mark in the Latin Dance community, now we are using the symbolism of "Therapy" under "Pink Therapy" but this time it is to fundraise in partnership with the Pink Warrior House Foundation in order to provide outreach and increase resources for those warriors battling against breast cancer. On The One and Pachanga productions will be involved in community outreach and utilizing our resources to help those in need. Cover charge is a SUGGESTED $20 donation (ALL PROCEEDS GO TO Pink Warrior House Foundation). Cocktail hour from 6-7 PM (purchases go to PWH on selected drinks). Dance lesson from 7-8 PM. Open dance floor 8-12 AM. Be aware of Media/News coverage. We need everyone's assistance with this, PLEASE SHARE FAR AND WIDE, those warriors battling breast cancer need our help. Let's do our part. We are asking for the entire Latin dance community to come out and support. This will be one of many fundraisers that we do for organizations like PWH. Lets use our dance skills to help those in need!
Fri 6 – 8 PM May Flowers Stampin' Bingo (in person) Hip Stitch, 2320 Wisconsin St. NE Cost is $35 for 6 rounds of bingo, prizes, and make n' takes! Message for more info or to register
Fri 6 – 8:30 PM Los Domingueros Live El Vado, 2500 Central Ave SW Prepare for an unforgettable fusion of Latin dance beats and rock energy as Friday Night Live at El Vado proudly presents New Mexico's premier menudo-based band, Los Domingueros! Few bands can match the infectious joy and vibrant rhythms that they bring to the stage. A multi-talented group of musicians, they take listeners on a musical journey like no other. From the pulsating rhythms of salsa, bachata, and cumbia to the high-energy vibes of ska and reggae, sprinkled with a dash of punk and thrash, their eclectic repertoire promises an exhilarating experience for all. As always, treat your taste buds to a delightful selection of culinary delights from our diverse food pods. From savory stir-fries to tantalizing Latin flavors and heavenly desserts, there's something to satisfy every craving. And don't overlook the opportunity to quench your thirst with a crisp craft beer from Ponderosa Brewing Company, conveniently available at the El Vado Tap Room
Fri 6 – 10 PM Fork Cancer Gala FUSION ABQ, 700-708 1st St. NW The American Cancer Society is hosting Albuquerque's second #ForkCancerAbq fundraising event. VIP 6pm - 7pm. Gala 7pm - 10pm. Dress Code: Gala Attire. #ForkCancerNM is a foodie's dream, with local restaurants and bars bringing out their best to truly showcase the Taste of Albuquerque while raising money for the American Cancer Society's life-saving mission in New Mexico supporting Access to Care like patient transportation, patient lodging and 24/7 support. Along with life saving research and grants. With great opportunities to raise money, we will also have live entertainment! (tickets)
Fri 6:30 – 10 PM Community Movie Night South Valley Multipurpose Center, 2008 Larrazolo Rd. SW Feature of the night: In The Heights. Bring your dinner, blankets and chairs. Please no glass containers
Fri 7 PM Movie In The Park ABQ Food Park, 6901-B San Antonio Dr. NE ABQ Food Park is bringing back Movies In The Park, starting off the summer with a screening of The Sandlot. Arrive early to get your face painted by Local Locas Facepainting before settling in with your blankets, chairs, and appetite for a delightful evening at the park with loved ones. Indulge in delicious fare from our food trucks while enjoying this timeless film under the stars. Please do not bring outside food as we have a variety of food options at the park. Please support our local food vendors. Entry is free! Reserve your tickets
Fri 7 – 10 PM Emerald Ball Holiday Dance Studio, 5200 Eubank Blvd. NE, Ste D Celebrate the enchanting month of May by donning your finest emerald attire. Bring in the vibrant spring season by joining us in elegant semi-formal wear of rich verdant colors and dance the night away! A Foxtrot lesson will begin the evening at 7pm followed by open dancing. Call 505-508-4020 for more information. $30 non-members
Fri 8 PM – 2 AM Sucia EDC Gogo Takeover Sidewinders Bar and Grill, 4200 Central Ave SE Sucia Productions is bringing the Electric Sky to Sidewinders! No need to have EDC FOMO because Papa Sucia is ready to bring the party to you! Come join your Sucia Family for a Night of PLUR! Featuring the Sucia Gogos on multiple boxes and individual dances available in the Cabaret Room! Hosted by Papa Sucia and Sucia Gogo Madam Sativa Rico-Stratton. DJ Unzipped will be bringing the you the best EDM set for you to dance the night away!
Fri 9 PM – 1:30 AM Callaita Fridays Salt Yard West, 3700 Ellison Rd. NW DJ Soiree will be spinning under the stars in the Salt Yard, promising a night of electrifying Latin music. This 21+ event guarantees an atmosphere where you can fully embrace the rhythm without inhibition. Whether you're a die-hard fan of Reggaeton or simply seeking a night of unparalleled fun, "Callaita Fridays" is the place to be
Fri 10:30 PM – 12:15 AM FACELESS AFTER DARK - new meta horror starring Jenna Kanell of "Terrifier"! The Guild Cinema, 3405 Central Ave NE All Seats $8. Check out the trailer. Dir. Raymond Wood - 2023 - 82m. Following her breakout success as the star of a killer clown horror flick, Bowie (Jenna Kanell, TERRIFIER) now finds herself struggling to capitalize on its success. But when she is suddenly held hostage by an unhinged fan posing as that same killer clown, horror becomes her reality as she fights to survive the night and escape before he completes his sinister plan to recreate the film's fatal plot (tickets)
** Sat 5/18 *\*
Sat 8 – 10 AM Planting Corn Seeds Lynn Garden, 176 Manierre Rd., Corrales We will be planting corn seeds; a new crop for Seed2Need this year!
Sat 8 – 10 AM Run for Mercy 5K Sagebrush Community Church, 6440 Coors Blvd. NW Join our team to run with us to support Mercy Multiplied, which exists to provide opportunities for all to experience God's unconditional love, forgiveness, and life-transforming power. Mercy offers free-of-charge Residential and Outpatient Counseling Programs, as well as Outreach Services that include workshops and trainings, our Keys to Freedom discipleship study, and Keys to Freedom Retreat (register)
Sat 8 AM – 12 PM Downtown Growers' Market Robinson Park, 810 Copper Ave NW Every Saturday from 8 am - NOON! This vibrant community event connects local farmers, growers, artisans, wellness makers, and hot food vendors with the local community from mid-April to early-November. Bring friends / family or come solo to enjoy fresh food made on sight, a variety of seasonal produce, unique arts and crafts, live music, and special programming all in the heart of downtown
Sat 8 AM – 2 PM Rio Rancho's Biggest Yard Sale Cabezon Park and Community Center, 2307 Cabezon Blvd. SE, Rio Rancho FREE Admission! Clean out your garage, spare bedroom, attic and shed. Come join us to sell all of those items that were collecting dust, find a treasure that you didn’t know you needed, and enjoy a day in the park! Vendor space $35 for a 15’ x 15’ space (Tables and chairs are not provided) Must register online, NO Drop-Ins Accepted. Please call the Cabezon Community Center at 505-892-4499 for more info
Sat 9 AM Send Haley to Spain Sand Volleyball Tournament Charlie’s Sandbox, 4335 Paseo del Norte NE All proceeds go to Haley and her trip to Spain in July! $20/per player. All Skill levels! Prizes for 1st & 2nd place. 4-6 players Coed with 1 female on team. Check in @ 8:30am. More info: Jillian (505) 322-7228, Haley (505) 331-4788, Charlie (505) 239-2461
Sat 9 AM Invisible Heroes Run Believers Center of Albuquerque, 320 Waterfall Dr. SE Join Runfit and the American Society of Radiologic Technologists for the inaugural Invisible Heroes 5K Run/Walk. It is a community event being held to recognize the vital role that medical imaging professionals and radiation therapists play on the health care team and to introduce the public to these vital health care professionals. You are invited to run and walk to celebrate the important work done by invisible heroes. At packet pick-up, you will have an opportunity to tour the ASRT Museum and Archives. Age group, overall, and team awards, including a great t-shirt and finisher medals for all participants (register)
Sat 9 AM - 4 PM 16th Annual CTC Vintage Tractor & Car Show Corrales Recreation Center, 500 Jones Rd., Corrales Join us for a fun day in the Corrales Park. There will be music, food, hot rods, tractor, stationary engines and more. Proceeds Raised will benefit Corrales 4H and Historical Society. Free admission. $10 for show participants
Sat 10 AM – 12 PM Foraging for Fun(ds) Los Poblanos Open Space, 1800 Tierra Viva Pl. NW Join Rev. Ryan Tate on a foraging excursion! Rev. Tate, of the African American spiritual tradition and an IPL board member, wants to bring their loving knowledge of NM edibles and herbs to you. Discover the food right under your nose and how easy it is to enjoy! We’ll meet to explore and harvest native and edible plants. Enter the Open Space area from west bound Montano Boulevard. After foraging, we’ll gather to taste our harvest and other locally sourced treats. Sign up today to participate - space is limited. This is a fundraiser for our work for climate justice: Please give generously (Suggested minimum donation $10)
Sat 10 AM – 3 PM Homebrewer's Happy Hour Southwest Grape & Grain, 3401 Candelaria Blvd. NE Homebrewer's Happy Hour is the perfect chance for all homebrewers, wine makers, distillers, or anyone interested in learning, to connect with others, share a drink, and learn about a new subject each month! $1 off beers from 10am to 3pm. Presentation on monthly subject at 1pm with open forum to discuss after. Food truck on site for lunch! May 18th - Barley
Sat 10:30 – 11:30 AM Animal Tales with the ABQ BioPark Ernie Pyle Library, 900 Girard Blvd. SE Dive into the captivating world of animals with "Animal Tales" presented by the ABQ BioPark! Join us for a delightful reading session featuring an animal-themed book. Experience the magic as the BioPark brings along real animals and biofacts that connect to the story, giving kids an exciting opportunity to meet these creatures up close! Don't miss this engaging and educational adventure for young animal enthusiasts!
Sat 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM FolkMADS Third Saturday Family Dance Albuquerque Square Dance Center, 4915 Hawkins St. NE Dancing, song, and live music for kids of all ages. No experience needed to have fun! Children must be accompanied by an adult. Children dance free, Adults $10
Sat 11 AM – 1 PM Annual Summer Kick-Off Event! Matheson Park Elementary, 10809 Lexington Ave NE Join us as we kick off the summer with fun, a food truck, face painting, dunk tank, and more! Bring your family and your pets for a Blessing of the Pets. There is no cost to attend and all are welcome!
Sat 11 AM – 3 PM Wine + Art Afternoons Gruet Winery, 8400 Pan American East Fwy NE Prism Arts presents a new public art and social series with a special one-day multi-artist event. Join us inside the Gruet Winery with a selection of fine art, prints, paintings, jewelry, and ceramics from local artists Vanessa Alvarado, Eric Romero, Margarita Paz-Pedro, & Aaron Richardson. Enjoy unique art, amazing fine, food, and a social environment with the artists and the public. *All art purchases receive a complimentary bottle of Gruet Wine*
Sat 11 AM – 3 PM Bernalillo Family Fun Festival! Calvary Church, 4001 Osuna Rd. NE Get connected to community and enjoy a Fun Family Day!
Sat 11:30 AM – 4 PM Imaginary Friends Fest Flix Brewhouse, 3200 La Orilla Rd. NW Let your imagination run wild! Join us in the lobby to celebrate the opening of IF! Enjoy photo ops, freebies, an in-theater giveaway, and activities for the whole family. All ages are welcome!
Sat 12 PM BBQ n' Crawl Supper Rock Park, 598 Monte Alto Pl. NE Mini Crawlers 505 and Duke City RC are throwing a BBQ and crawl sesh! All rigs welcome! Please mark going if you are, so we can get enough food!
Sat 12 PM May Brew Tour - Farewell Tour Rio Bravo Brewing, 1912 2nd St. NW This is the last NM Brew Ha-Ha Beer tour for the season. The 24-25 season will start in June 2025 so stay tuned for the season lineup release. Rio Bravo Brewing, Ponderosa Brewing, Bow & Arrow Brewing, Juno Brewery. At Rio Bravo, a DD will be selected, then we’ll head to the other breweries in the order listed. T-shirts, if ordered will be delivered. For safety, a breathalyzer is available, a DD will be established and a liability waiver will be signed by all participants. Safety is of utmost importance. We want everyone to enjoy their tour and arrive home safely
Sat 12 PM Drag Bingo & Brunch! All Ages Welcome! Sidewinders Bar and Grill, 4200 Central Ave SE Join us for a Drag Queen Bingo and Brunch benefitting The Albuquerque Roadrunner Tournament 2024 (coming up in September). Hosted by Priscilla Bouvier. Doors 12pm. Show 1pm. Bingo, Prizes, Giveaways, Raffles, Cocktails, Mocktails and Fun!
Sat 12 PM Empire's 9th Anniversary - FREE PLAY ALL DAY Empire Board Game Library, 3503 Central Ave NE It's Empire's 9th Anniversary celebration and you're invited! We've been here 9 years and it's all thanks to the support we get from you, so to show our appreciation, this Saturday's celebration is our gift to you: Come in and play for free all day! Every game is on sale all weekend! We're holding raffles over the course of the day to give away some great games! So come on down and let us thank you!
Sat 12 – 3 PM STOODIS!: An AIDS/LifeCycle Fundraising Event Soo Bak Seoul Bowl, 111 Hermosa Dr. SE Help Vanessa Bowen cross the finish line – the fundraising finish line, that is! Vanessa is on a mission to raise $3,500 to participate in the 2024 AIDS/LifeCycle, a 545-mile charity bike ride from San Francisco to Los Angeles from June 2nd to 8th, 2024. Join this special fundraising event and send-off party for an afternoon of entertainment, vendors, bike tune-ups, raffle, and food and drink specials. Come prepared to support our local vendors and find out how you can win our selected giveaways. AIDS/LifeCycle benefits, and is jointly produced by, San Francisco AIDS Foundation (Tax ID # 94-2927405) and Los Angeles LGBT Center (Tax ID # 95-3567895), each of which is a nonprofit, public benefit corporation recognized as tax exempt under IRS Code Section 501(c)(3). Donations to AIDS/LifeCycle are deductible for income tax purposes, to the extent permitted by law. Vanessa Bowen (They/Them) is a Diné (Navajo) product designer and cyclist. Their work gravitates toward the intersection of design and social equity. Bowen is a former Outride Ambassador, current Chamois Butt’r and Kuat Racks Ambassador, founder of Get Native Kids on Bikes, and a supporter of AIDS/LifeCycle. If not creating in their studio in Albuquerque, they are training for a cycling event or community building for a just, equitable future (more info)
Sat 12 – 5 PM Day Camp - A Festival for Families Tin Can Alley, 6013 Signal Ave NE Day Camp is where adventure meets education, creativity, and community in a fair-like environment where a variety of youth development organizations are excited to share their programs. In partnership with Warehouse 505, and featuring organizations such as Explora, there will be workshops ands expos for kids to discover new passions across music, art, science, and more. Supporting Youth Security & Education, all dedicated funds raised will be going to New Mexico non-profit organizations
Sat 12 – 5 PM Monthly Pinball Tournament Sister, 407 Central Ave NW All skill levels and players welcome! 21+ Sign up starts at 12 pm; tournament play starts at 1 p.m. Entry fee is $5 + coin drop
Sat 1 – 5 PM United in Beer Collaboration Festival Ex Novo Brewing, 4895 Corrales Rd., Corrales United in Beer is a New Mexico statewide collaborative beer festival that benefits the Somos Unidos Foundation with 26 participating breweries, which were randomly partnered through a live draft and then together selected the beer style they would collaborate on. All beers will be showcased at the festival. Tickets are limited. Portions of ticket sales will donated to Somos Unidos Foundation, a 501(c)(3) dedicated to creating positive outcomes for New Mexicans through art, sport, community, and unity. This will be a 21+ Event. Food trucks will be on site. Included with ticket purchase is: Festival access, 8 drink tokens, and a United In Beer glass! We recommend bringing: Sunscreen, your friends, and good vibes
Sat 1 – 10 PM Boots In The Park Presents Thomas Rhett, Chris Young & Friends! Balloon Fiesta Park, 5000 Balloon Fiesta Pkwy Dust off your boots and get ready to holler, because Boots In The Park is making it's way to Albuquerque, y'all! Join us for a rootin', tootin', two-steppin' good time with none other than Thomas Rhett, Chris Young, Chris Janson, Kameron Marlowe, Dylan Schneider, Leaving Austin and beats by Luwiss Lux. We're talking about an evening filled to the brim with live tunes, finger-lickin' craft food, and the smoothest cocktails. We'll be kicking up dust with some good ol' line dancing and a whole heap more, as Balloon Fiesta Park is transformed into Albuquerque's best country music party! Past folks to grace the Boots In The Park stage are Carrie Underwood, Blake Shelton, Tim McGraw, Cody Johnson, Jon Pardi and a bunch of other country legends. But this day is gonna be one for the record books, a show that will leave y'all talking for years to come (tickets)
Sat 2 PM Annual Castro Concerto Competition Albuquerque Youth Symphony, 4407 Menaul Blvd. NE Join us to hear talented high school juniors compete for the privilege of performing with the Youth Symphony during the Albuquerque Youth Symphony Program's 2024-2025 concert season! This event is free and open to the public. We also plan to stream this event live on Facebook for anyone not able to attend in person
Sat 2 PM "Greatest Moments" - a fundraising concert for Opera On Tap New Mexico Central United Methodist Church, 201 University Blvd. NE Join us for an afternoon of music to help raise money for Opera on Tap - New Mexico! Featuring some faculty and students of University of New Mexico, along with other local professionals, we have put a program together highlighting some of the show-stopping, beautiful moments of opera and musical theater! Suggested donation $10
Sat 2 – 7 PM Rawking: An Afternoon Metal + Art + Comedy Extravaganza Juno, 1501 1st St. NW Featured performers include Light Thief, Destroy to Recreate, Guvtika, Abandoned Saviors. outdoors on the patio with Four Bands, Comedians, Artists, Vendors. Produced by Metal World Radio. 21+. $10 at the door or presales online
Sat 3 – 8 PM Albuquerque Roller Derby presents: Sandia Slammers vs. Bosque Bruisers! Expo New Mexico - Manuel Lujan Jr Exhibit Complex, 300 San Pedro Dr. NE Albuquerque Roller Derby has gotten SO big we’ve split into two teams! Sandia Slammers & Bosque Bruisers! Get your tickets for our first Home Game of the 2024 season
Sat 3:45 – 5:45 PM AND 7 - 9 PM The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 1 Flix Brewhouse, 3236 La Orilla Rd. NW Experience the Twilight saga's epic romance and thrilling fantasy BREAKING DAWN - PART 1 on the big screen! Bella and Edward, plus those they love, must deal with the chain of consequences brought on by a marriage, honeymoon, and the tumultuous birth of a child, which brings about unforeseen and shocking developments for Jacob Black (tickets)
Sat 4 – 8 PM Drink Local Downtown ABQ - May Step into the heart of Albuquerque with our thrilling, free monthly bar crawl event! Immerse yourself in the local charm as we celebrate community, culture, and creativity right in the heart of ABQ. In partnership with ABQCore Neighborhood Association, a locally organized and hosted event, we're bringing you a bar crawl experience like no other. This isn't just a crawl; it's a vibrant celebration of local businesses, a showcase of community talent, and a monthly escape into the unique flavors that make ABQ special
Sat 4 – 9 PM Summer Market ABQ Food Park, 6951 San Antonio Dr. NE Dive into the magic of summer evenings at ABQ Food Park with our captivating Summer Market! Join us for a delightful evening, where you can browse an enchanting array of offerings from local artisans and support our vibrant community businesses. Discover unique treasures crafted with love and passion by talented artisans, from handcrafted jewelry to exquisite home decor. Every purchase you make supports local creators and contributes to the thriving arts scene in our city
Sat 5 – 8 PM National Astronomy Day! Rainbow Park Observatory, 301 Southern Blvd SE, Rio Rancho The Rio Rancho Astronomical Society will host National Astronomy Day at Rainbow Park Observatory. There will be food for a donation, family activities and safe solar viewing. Dr. Tony Hull will appeal at 7 pm about his work on the James Webb Space Telescope. He will also have some info on light pollution
Sat 5 – 11 PM Beer & Jazz on the Hill Tractor Brewing, 122 Tulane Dr. SE We're bringing you a full night of brews and Jazz with the very talented Rona & Meli opening things up at 5pm and our house Jazz band Basilaris Trio closing things down at 8!
Sat 6 PM Bear Affair 4: Spanish Tapas Beer Pairing Dinner Boxing Bear Brewing, 8420 Firestone Ln. NE Join us on our patio for an ALMOST summer night paired with a variety of our seasonal beers, chef-crafted Spanish tapas, and flamenco. Featuring chef Christopher Midyette And the artist dance group Spanish Broom. Tickets are $65 per person and include a welcome beer, three course tapas style meal with beer pairings and entertainment for the evening
Sat 6 PM One Year Anniversary Celebration Urbanmama505 Kombucha, 1014 Central Ave SW, Ste A Celebrating one year of love, abundance, and sharing wellness. Right after Open Mic 4-6pm, we will be graced with a jazz concert by Davis Nelson-Hooker, an amazing local musician. Elixirs and small plates for purchase
Sat 6 – 9 PM Gone Country Saturdays with DJ Soiree Ponderosa Brewing, 1761 Bellamah Ave NW It's Gone Country Saturdays featuring the amazing DJ Soiree! Start your evening with free dance lessons at 5 pm, followed by family-friendly entertainment
Sat 7:30 – 9 PM Saturday Night Stand-Up Bosque Brewing Co - Nob Hill, 106 Girard Blvd. SE Live from ABQ, it’s… Saturday Night Stand-Up Hosted by Nax Davis! Every third Saturday of the month! Seating at 7:30 - Comedy at 8. Featured line-up of local comics includes: MEG FINN, BRYAN LAMBE, SARINA OCHOA, MARY BYRD, ROBERT EYSTER
Sat 8 PM – 1:15 AM Apparition Goth Night Historic El Rey Theater, 622 Central Ave SW A hauntingly dark, classic goth night featuring the Apparition team: DJ Ren, DJ Batboy, DJ Moonside. Doors at 8. $10 all night. 21+ Tickets at the door. Expect goth, darkwave, death rock, synthpop, dark post punk, ebm, dark dance, industrial, witch house, horror punk and more
Sat 8:30 PM – 1 AM SABOR Latin Night - SATURDAYS Bama's 1865, 6007 Osuna Rd. NE May 11th - SPECIAL GUEST DJ ITALIA! DJ Gabriel Goza & DJ Pedro will be serving you the saucy Salsa, Bachata, Cumbia, Merengue y Mas! Ample Parking, Safe Environment, Beautiful Venue, Good Food, Good Music, Good Vibes. 21+ / $10 cover
Sat 9 PM – 1 AM Cumbia + Rock en Espanol Juno, 1501 1st St. NW Grupo Super Verza with Ave. 69 and Lot Beat and DJ Tony. Baila! 21+, $15 at the door or online
** Sun 5/19 *\*
Sun 9 – 11 AM Elevated Roller Derby May Training Scrimmage Heights Community Center, 823 Buena Vista Dr. SE Officials' huddle 9:00AM. Captains' meeting at 9:20AM. First whistle 9:30AM. This is simply a black/white scrimmage. It will be used as an educational opportunity. NSO paperwork will be used as appropriate. You are encouraged to stretch your skills. Hospitality: This is a low/no production scrimmage, bring beverages and snacks for your own use. Bathrooms: The community center may not be open during the scrimmage. (That's the trade-off for a free space). You can stop at the nearby Starbucks before the event. Expectations: Skaters and Skating and Non-skating Officials are expected to follow all WFTDA Risk Management Guidelines. The venue is a designated alcohol, drug, and smoke-free space by the city of Albuquerque (sign up)
Sun 10 AM – 2 PM The Great Burque Bake On Rail Yards Market, 777 1st St. SW Get ready to whisk it all at the "Great Burque Bake-on," a special fundraiser for the non-profit Rail Yards Market: One dozen of Albuquerque's most talented bakers will dough head-to-head in a crusty competition for the ultimate bakery glory! Bakers brawl... You vote for the winners! This sugar-dusted showdown promises a blend of flour-fueled drama and buttery bravado, making it the yeast you can do to support your local confectionery champions. As these culinary wizards knead their way to the top, we guarantee you'll find their efforts both batter and sweeter than anything you've tasted before. Join us for a day of laughter, pastry, and a chance to see who rises as the crème de la crème of Burque's baking scene! 1) ORDER > Claim your Bake-on Box & exclusive market swag by ordering online May 10-16th, 2024. 2) LEARN > Follow our social media to learn about each contestant & their offering. 3) PICKUP > Grab your box of baked goodies & swag at the info booth Sunday May 19th. 4) ENJOY > Eat all the delectable goodies, savor the flavor, and read about all the contestants 5) VOTE >> Submit your votes online to choose the winners! (tickets) The Farmers' Market event is going down simultaneously with 175+ local vendors to explore, and is still FREE to enter and welcome to all. This funky fundraiser is going down during the FREE Rail Yards Farmers' Market. So you can peruse 150+ small businesses and enjoy the historic architecture while you enjoy your Great Burque Bake-on Box of goodies! All proceeds will benefit the Rail Yards Market. The Rail Yards market of Albuquerque is a certified 501(c)3 non-profit focused on building a resilient, sustainable, local economy where the surrounding historic communities thrive, all can participate, and everyone is enriched and inspired. Through food, art, education, and music, we invite the community together in an inclusive and festive atmosphere
Sun 11:30 AM The Addams Family Historic Lobo Theater, 3013 Central Ave NE THE HISTORIC LOBO THEATER is excited to bring The Addams Family to the big screen! Showing Starts at 11:30 am Tickets are ONLY $10 for General Admission $25 Brunch and a Movie Ticket $21 Brunch Only ticket
Sun 12:30 PM Annual Spring Tea Asbury UMC, 10000 Candelaria Rd. NE All are welcome to attend our Annual Spring Tea! This year's theme is "The Tapestries of Our Lives." Life can be like a tapestry; our quilt, with events, feelings, accomplishments, and even disappointments "stitched" in. Join us, for tea, while Cindy Kurey, AQS-certified quilted textiles appraiser, shares how quilting and her faith have helped her navigate life. She will also show her collection of antique, vintage, and modern quilts! There is no cost to attend, though RSVPs are required. Please call the church office 505-299-0643 or message us on Facebook to RSVP

I'm only a perm sub (with an LBS, so I'm covering the caseload of a sped teach who is on an LOA) but I've gotten 2 days in a row of parent rage emails (other people cc'd too). First was a parent lashing out at a language teacher for "ruining the family's Mother's Day" with a cooking project that the student had completely misunderstood as a final (me personally? Wouldn't allow a teacher to ruin my Mother's Day. Kiddo, you've got an hour or 2 to work on this project, then we're gonna email the teacher and try to negotiate a grade adjustment or late turn in due to unclear rubric/expectations). Today it was a parent raging that "the IEP is not being enforced" bc his kid is failing an AP class...he hasn't turned in a project due from beginning of April. I go and meet with the teacher, who is LITERALLY EMBEDDING ALL THE ACCOMMODATIONS INTO THE WHOLE CLASS. Like Teach is doing UbD and best practices for backwards planning. Constant check ins, etc. I call the parent thinking this will be easier over the phone...20 mins later, seems like it's all setttled...then I get a whiny email from mom. Does she say, "Could you please help us with this?" Nope. Just blame game about how the school is making the assumption her son can do it on his own and he really needs more support. No acknowledgement that the son is not turning things in, when his supported study hall asks how his project is going he says "fine," etc. It's beyond me how parents can treat school employees like shit and expect good service but are we maybe perpetuating it by cowtowing to their demands? With both these kids, the issues had NOTHING to do with the IEP. Once these parents see the danger of an F they go nuclear and blame game and "we're gonna sue." And...chortle...was this brought up at the annual review meetings a month ago? In case of student one, where the very language teacher was present? OF COURSE NOT! Why parents think it's ok to lash out at teachers I do not understand. I just interviewed for a more full time sped position at this school but maybe I don't want it after all.
How do y'all deal with parents like this? Is there a way to be basically polite but also set boundaries? I'm aghast, but also don't want to get in trouble for being perceived as abrasive.

I currently have 2 jobs, Job 1 as a full-time employee, and Job 2 as a part-time consultant (self-employed) paid by the hour with no benefits. I'm considering quitting Job 1 and converting Job 2 into a full-time role. This seems like a good career move for me, but I need to determine if it makes financial sense too. Saying that, I have the following questions:

• How do I calculate the cost of extended health benefits?
• What other factors should I consider? I currently set aside 30% for taxes, and I understand I won’t have any contributions toward EI or paid vacation.

Thank you in advance!

And perhaps as a regular member too. Why support such blatantly racist company?
I should’ve done more research before signing up for Equinox’s teacher training program (it didn’t occur to me that a gym chain located mainly on the coasts catering to diverse members could be racist). As a student going through the program, your access to studio use may be more limited, you may not get as much attention and feedback from the instructors, etc. if you are not white. And they advertise the ability to work at Equinox while completing the program as a perk. Equinox isn’t known for treating their people well, I know, but they are also blatantly racist. A quick google search on “Equinox racism” got me numerous articles on racism and sexism lawsuits.
Some quotes from two different lawsuits:
… derogatory comments such as “Black guys are good for nothing but bodybuilding and physical work” - source
…Equinox repeatedly ignored her complaints of racist and sexually inappropriate behavior by a fitness manager who reported to her and remains employed by Equinox. Europe said that the manager frequently made vulgar comments about Black women’s bodies, harassed Equinox employees using offensive language, and diverted personal training clients away from employees of color. - source
There are many other classical Pilates training programs out there. And I’d like to believe that there are better studios to work for.
It’s a throwaway account to protect my identity. But if you have any suggestions on classical Pilates studios that are not racist and actually care about their teachers, please share! I’d love to come back to this post and learn about them.