VBA employees get shit on quite often on here and I’ve handed out my share too. However, this most recent experience for me was drastically different than the last. I filed for 2 increases, 5 secondaries and 2 new issues on April 12th. I received my first decision letter on May 8th. Went from 60% to 80% with half of my claims being deferred due to issues with the DBQs. The issues were fixed and I received another decision letter yesterday. 100% P&T with one claim still deferred for a C&P exam.
Overall this took around 32 days from the day I submitted my claim. I just want to say kudos to VES and their examiners, the outstanding rater out of Portland, and anyone else involved in the process. It’s easy to feel like no one cares when things aren’t going your way, but this has shown me that there are still people out there who care about veterans and their well-being.

Hi, I'm Loofy. Here's the gist from one of my previous posts:

Preface: I am not selling anything, and do not benefit in this in any way. Just trying to help out someone if they need it.
I work for Goodyear, and as a perk we get discount codes we can give out to people. I get a small amount of 35% off codes as an employee, and once a year they give us a larger discount. I have a 45% off code that I do not need.
My vehicle has fine tires, nobody I know needs them, so I'd like to offer it here. I do not work at the Goodyear on Westnedge, so you won't meet me (although you'll probably meet Jon who is cool AF).
If you're interested, this is what you need to know:
The tires MUST be purchased online through goodyear.com with installation at a Goodyear location, or an authorized Goodyear dealer. You'd purchase the tires, schedule an appointment, and do everything online.
This 45% off code is for tires only, it will not give you a discount on installation, balancing, etc.
The code expires on October 1st, so you'd need to purchase tires relatively soon.
If you're skeptical, I understand. Mods, feel free to DM me for proof if you'd like. I get no kickback, no awards, literally nothing. I just would rather this code get used since it only gets given once a year to us. If you end up needing tires, and the code has already been given, I still have one or two 35% off codes to give away. They also hand out 20% off like candy to us as well.
I do believe this discount applies even with rebates, or other promotions, but don't quote me on that. That would be a good question for the dealer you end up at.

I have a couple 35% off codes I am happy to give away. Send me a DM if you are interested. I am still technically an employee of Goodyear, although I was laid off along with several others in our Ohio/Michigan district, and still have the codes to give away (until they take them away from me).

Enravel (Seattle)
Date of Incorporation: 9/14/2009
Governing Persons: Rony Abovitz (Governor); Scott Henry (Governor); Anastasia Lang; Richard Taylor; Jennifer Fitzpatrick; Joseph Tsai https://www.sos.wa.gov/corps/business.aspx?ubi=602954597
Enravel, which presented at the April Innovation Showcase, followed up the presentations with an update and product demo. The company, led by UW mechanical engineer Brian Schowengerdt [former UW & Microvision employee], has developed a laser-based “pico projector” that could be built into mobile electronics like cell phones, digital cameras, and even eye glasses. The 1 mm x 9 mm projector —about the size of a grain of rice—uses “scanning fiber” technology to then scan an image from the device, and project an enlarged image back onto a larger surface, like a wall. The company, which has put most of its resources into developing the projection technology so far, plans to now turn its focus to streamlining the light source modulator to improve image quality.
https://xconomy.com/seattle/2010/07/15/technology-alliance-showcases-four-new-companies-in-biotech-and-cleantech-and-revisits-one-past-presente2/
Linden Rhoads [at the time Vice Provost-IP, Commercialization, Innovation at the University of Washington] introduced this startup by pulling out her iPhone and iPad (yes, one of those) and talking about the devices’ display capabilities. “These are great, these are fun, but they’re going to be so much more fun when there are projectors available for them,” she said. “That day is very, very close at hand.”
Enravel is led by UW mechanical engineer Brian Schowengerdt, an expert in alternative displays, user interfaces, and human visual perception. He co-founded the company in 2009 to commercialize a laser-based “pico projector.” The idea, he says, is to “take a display of iPad size and compress it into the size of an iPhone.” More specifically, to shrink a projector to “the size of a grain of rice” and use it to project on-screen images, video, games, websites, e-mail—you name it—onto any larger surface.
The core technology is a “scanning fiber” projector that uses fiber optics and a vibrating element to scan an image and blow it up, for example, to a size of 17 inches across from just five inches away. A matchbook-size assembly of laser diodes (off the shelf) provides the light source to project the image. You could imagine such a projector might be crammed into a smartphone and used anytime you want a bigger display to interact with, for reading text or watching a video, say.
Enravel has five employees, and its technology was built over the past few years using $8 million in funding for a related endoscopic imaging project (led by Eric Seibel) and $100,000 in grants. The company expects to finish its portable prototype by next month, and to have a standalone product by the end of next year.
https://xconomy.com/seattle/2010/04/22/technology-alliance-showcases-five-companies-in-sensors-mobile-displays-and-drug-therapies-investors-take-notice/?single_page=true
Thanks to for mentioning Enravel
Jump to Q3 2019
UW Researcher Spotlight: Eric Seibel, Mechanical Engineering Written by CoMotion Staff / September 27, 2019
Eric Seibel: "Scanning Fiber Endoscope: This is an ultrathin and flexible scanning fiber endoscope (SFE) for the early detection and treatment of cancers within the body. The goal is to advance minimally invasive medical imaging by using ultrathin flexible endoscopes that allow access to regions of the body that were previously inaccessible to permit less invasive treatment of cancers before they have spread from their place of origin. It was licensed to startup VerAvanti for medical endoscopes and Magic Leap for AR displays as well as a few other related licenses."
https://comotion.uw.edu/comotion-spotlight-on-a-uw-researcher-eric-seibel/
August 26, 2019 - Veravanti announces a new subsidiary and the opening of a nanofabrication facility
"The opening of the Avanti Nanofabrication facility enables VerAvanti to manufacture its patented Scanning Fiber Endoscope (SFE), a new, extremely small imaging modality designed to access small arteries to illuminate stroke and cardiovascular risks."
https://veravanti.com/news/2019/8/26/veravanti-announces-a-new-subsidiary-and-the-opening-of-a-nanofabrication-facility
Some information on Veravanti in relation to Enravel:
Research: Large field-of-view short-wave infrared metalens for scanning fiber endoscopy Mirror 1 Mirror 2
Near-Infrared Imaging of Artificial Enamel Caries Lesions with a Scanning Fiber Endoscope
Other Scanning Fiber Endoscope Projects
Endoscope Surveilence
SFE For Dental Care
SFE For Bladder Surveillance
The scanning fiber endoscope is an ultrathin and flexible endoscope for the early detection and treatment of cancers within the body. The SFE can be used as a surveillance device with the goal of improving our chances of survival from cancer.
A scanning fiber endoscope is a technology that uses a flexible, small (< 6Fr) peripheral or coronary catheter to provide wide-field, high-quality, full-color, laser-based video imaging. These differences distinguish SFE applications from current imaging approaches such as IVUS and Intracoronary OCT. Applications for the device (which was pending FDA review and approval as of 2017[needs update]), are expected to include medical diagnosis and support in determining interventional treatments such as surgery or biopsy. Providing both full-color images and a wide-field, real-time surgical view into the inner depths of arteries, enables physicians to circumnavigate hard to reach internal tissues to assess for potential disease.
REDMOND, WA (August 26, 2019) – VerAvanti, a developer of a new class of scientifically-advanced solutions to help physicians find answers to treat strokes and heart attacks that often strike without warning, today announced that its new subsidiary, Avanti, has opened a Nanofabrication facility in Bothell, Washington. The facility includes a 9,300 S.F. ISO 9001 cleanroom, the second largest in Washington State.
The first-of-its-kind facility on the Eastside will support high-volume component production of wafers and chips with nanoscale features. Because of the inconceivably tiny parts made from unconventional materials, these components aren’t practical, economical or even possible to fabricate at commercial foundries. The lab capabilities include photolithography, wet and dry etch, atomic layer deposition, Sputtering, Deep Reactive Ion Etching, scanning electron microscopy, Multiphysics simulation, design, and proprietary piezoelectric fabrication. The Avanti Nanofabrication will provide services to VerAvanti and the other businesses seeking these specialized services.
VerAvanti Founder and CEO, Gerald McMorrow explained why VerAvanti launched its new nanofabrication subsidiary. McMorrow stated, “The opening of the Avanti Nanofabrication facility enables VerAvanti to manufacture its patented Scanning Fiber Endoscope (SFE), a new, extremely small imaging modality designed to access small arteries to illuminate stroke and cardiovascular risks.” With the price point advantages this subsidiary enables, VerAvanti is positioning for a highly competitive market launch of its innovative SFE device.
About VerAvanti
Founded in 2013, privately-held VerAvanti is using advanced science and automation to commercialize the world’s first Scanning Fiber Endoscope (SFE)), to help physicians close treatment gaps and proactively identify interventions for the 200,000 individuals (U.S.) who suffer ischemic strokes due to an unknown cause1. Protected by more than 30 patents licensed by VerAvanti, the SFE is a micro-imaging catheter equipped with an extreme depth of focus camera that provides physicians a previously unseen surgical view into hidden intravascular anatomy, enabling more proactive diagnosis and treatment of individuals at-risk for stroke and cardiovascular events. Visit VerAvanti to learn more and review scientific papers and SFE images.
About Avanti Nanofabrication
Avanti Nanofabrication, a subsidiary of VerAvanti, is a nanofabrication facility located in Bothell, WA. The facility includes a 9,300 S.F. ISO 9001 cleanroom, the second largest in Washington State. Lab capabilities include photolithography, wet and dry etch, atomic layer deposition, Sputtering, Deep Reactive Ion Etching, scanning electron microscopy, Multiphysics simulation, design, and proprietary piezoelectric fabrication.
DEVELOPMENTAL STATUS (VerAvanti)
2019:

• August - VerAvanti Announces a New Subsidiary and the Opening of a Nanofabrication Facility

2017:

• June - Awarded $286K NIH Research, Phase 1 Grant. entitled “Optical visualization to efficiently guide coronary intervention of chronic total occlusion”
• May - Awarded $300k NIH Research, Phase 1 Grant entitled “4-Channel Multimodal Ultrathin-Flexible SFE for cancer diagnosis and therapy”
• April – Established in-house MEMS production facility.

2016:

• SFE console design complete.
• Quality system certified to ISO 13485 by Notified Body (DEKRA).
• David Auth, PhD joined VerAvanti board of directors.
• Patent Issued: "Closed Loop Optical Feedback Synchronization System for Imaging Application" (9,258,108)

2015:

• Scale-ready infrastructure, implemented including quality systems, NetSuite ERP, CRM, an accounting system and other automated business processes
• Established Clinical Advisory Board.
• Began development of automated catheter production.
• Identified and retained sales executives for USA and Europe with known track records.

2014:

• Design Concept – Coronary / Peripheral Scanning Fiber Endoscope
• Established manufacturing clean-room environment that operates at Class ISO 8 levels.
• Established corporate offices and R&D center of excellence.

2013:

• VerAvanti Inc. founded.
• Acquired exclusive worldwide rights to license SFE technology, consisting of more than 20 patents.
• Hired core development and engineering staff.
• Established automated document control system.

Myrtle Beach SC News article dated May 15, 2024
Documents Invalid & A.I. Endorsement
FOR REDDITORS UNABLE TO OPEN LINKS
Mica Miller mental health documents not legally notarized
Members of Attorney Tom Winslow’s team sent us a statement that legal medical filings surrounding the Mica Miller mental health issues were not legally notarized.
Mica Miller died of what has been ruled a suicide at Lumber River State Park on April 27th. The FBI is now investigating the case.
Suicide Claims, Mica Miller Mental Health Records, And Notary Issues
Despite the fact Pastor JP Miller admitted from the pulpit to being suicidal in October 2023, just two months later JP was able to receive a health care power of attorney from Mica signed Dec. 5. Tom Winslow, of Winslow Law, was the attorney that orchestrated this legal filing.
Texts received by MyrtleBeachSC News show that Power of Attorney documents were supposedly signed by Mica Miller on December 4th at the Solid Rock church. However, those documents were not notarized by Winslow Law employees (Briyana and Tiffany) until the next day at Winslow’s law office.
According to the S.C. Secretary of State, a notary must be present at the actual signing of such documents to prevent fraud.
Two months later, according to the Myrtle Beach Police Department, Mica was “involuntarily hospitalized” on Feb. 8, 2024. But what makes the case even more odd is that JP’s power of attorney documents were not filed until March 20, 2024, despite having been signed and notarized three months prior.
Is Tom Winslow An Expert At Artificial Intelligence - Deep Fake Voice Audio?
Today, we report on Tom Winslow A.I. claims as he touts the importance of A.I. in his law practice. At the bottom of this article, readers can view terrifying texts sent out by J.P. Miller to Mica in November 2022.
We recently published that Pastor JP Miller, and his attorney, Tom Winslow were persons of interest in the Mica Miller “Suicide” FBI probe. Some readers questioned how we could report this with such confidence at that time.
We need to point out that Tom Winslow and JP Miller are not charged with any crimes, and even if they should be, they are considered innocent until proven guilty.
JP Millers Documented Sexual Encounters
According to DailyMail: “Miller’s first wife, Alison, filed for divorce in 2015 after discovering he was having an affair with Mica, who was 14 years his junior.” Alison also claimed that “Miller had an addiction to prostitutes and had ‘sexual encounters’ with underage girls.” She continued, “He had also confessed to me and other staff members of the church that he had sexual encounters with young females from the church, who were under the age of 16.”
The lawyer representing JP Miller in his first divorce case was S.C. State Representative Val Guest.
Mica's Statements About Suicide
Mica’s sister, Sierra Francis, said, “Mica stated to me on many occasions, ‘If I end up with a bullet in my head’, it was JP,” referring to her husband, John Paul Miller. In a written affidavit, Seirra writes, “I know my sister to have expressed the abuse and violence against her by her husband to others, including family members and members of the church congregation. My sister also expressed to me that she was fearful that she would not make it to the divorce and that her life would be taken from her.”
JP Miller Attorney Tom Winslow A.I Endorsement
In the video above, Tom Winslow touts that his law practice is an advocate for the use of Artificial Intelligence. Winslow makes it a part of his practice.
Winslow is a member of Solid Rock Church. His wife is part of the praise team.
Also, as we reported yesterday, Attorney Tom Winslow owns 200 acres of land that backs up to the state park area where Mica’s body was found.
All of this is circumstantial, at best, but it is also very curious.
*The Call Made By Mica At Lumber River State Park?
Mica wrote to her attorney: “Since the day we became husband and wife, I have been abused in every way I can think of. Emotionally, sexually, spiritually, financially and physically. He has harassed me physically and electronically with letters, phone calls, emails and texts, hacking my emails, hacking my personal Facebook and impersonating me. Using my stolen phone to send texts and emails out to church members pretending to be me, texting friends and family saying that I am sleeping with teenagers from our church, and showing up in person at places around town … to having installed three different tracking devices on my vehicle.”
MyrtleBeachSC News learned that JP was in possession of a mobile phone he had stolen from Mica. Anyone who has left an outgoing, “I am not available now” message on their phone, knows that a recorded version of her voice was likely on that mobile phone.
According to the Robeson County Sherriff, at 2:54 p.m., a 911 call was made from Lumber River State Park parking lot.
Miller is calm throughout the call, asking a dispatcher if her phone can be tracked. The operator asks for Miller’s phone number and location, and then why she was calling.
“I’m about to kill myself, and I just want my family to know where to find me,” she replies.
How Deep Fake A.I. Voice Works
Was the Tom Winslow A.I. knowledge put to use in this matter?
Audio Capture And Signal Processing
The first step in AI voice recognition is audio capture. This is where the spoken words are recorded.
The audio is then processed to remove any background noise. This ensures that the system can clearly hear the spoken words.
Signal processing also involves enhancing the quality of the audio. This makes it easier for the system to recognize the speech patterns.
Pattern Recognition And Machine Learning
Pattern recognition is the core of AI voice recognition. It’s the process of identifying the spoken words in the audio signal.
Machine learning plays a crucial role in this process. It helps the system learn and improve its ability to recognize speech patterns.
Over time, the system becomes more accurate. It learns to understand different accents, dialects, and even nuances in speech.
Real-World Examples Of Deep Fake A.I.
AI voice recognition is not a futuristic concept. It’s already a part of our daily lives.
You may have interacted with it without even realizing. It’s present in many devices and applications we use every day.
Miller Says Church Services Are As Usual
In a social media post yesterday, Miller states, “Solid Rock is alive and well and we are moving forward with our new building project. We are excited to see all members at our meeting May 19th at 5 p.m.
The FBI is just starting this investigation and no one knows where it will lead. The Tom Winslow A.I. practices may only prove to be circumstantial. The Mica Miller mental health records are sure to play a roll in this saga. Time will tell where this leads.
Question: Were Public Posts Like This One From JP Miller Abusive?
Miller, pastor at Solid Rock Church in Myrtle Beach, told his sister-in-law that he would be arriving at her house at 1 a.m. on November 17, 2022, where Mica was visiting.
After Sierra warned that he wouldn’t be allowed in their home, he challenged her, saying ‘you can call the cops’.
A few moments later, he replied: “I’m armed. I’m ready. Mica can fix all of this“, to which Sierra replied: “THIS doesn’t help anything. Threats and intimidation only make things worse.”
‘I don’t care (idc) Driving. I can’t text. Thanks.’ said the disgraced pastor.
In response, Miller replied, “Hahaha” when told cops wouldn’t be called if he stayed home.

ALL NAMES ARE TOTALLY MADE UP! United States I live in Maryland, the coworker lives in Washington, DC, and our HQ is in New Jersey.
TLDR: I believe my coworker thinks it’s my fault his promotion was rescinded and he retaliated by accusing me of sexually harassing him by asking his sexual orientation 2.5 years ago because I asked him what pronouns I should use when describing the person he is dating and he told me “im gay.” We have had a good working and personal relationship since as documented by texts. Hr didn’t think it was related but I sent a detailed email to HR explaining the timeline and our relationship as well as how the convo actually went down. My old manager (promoted) corroborated that the convo occurred 2.5 years ago and that I was always respectful and did not treat him differently. We are equals. What else do I need to do? What are my options for recourse?
Recently, a coworker, Jim, with whom I am an equal, received a promotion that I noticed was outside of the parameters set by our company as i understood it. It prompted questions about our career progression timeline as well as other questions so I reached out to HR. I didn’t mention this employee or even reference another employee I just asked specific general questions about our promotional process, timeline, and requirements so I prepared to be promoted quickly and also managed my expectations. Honestly, his early promotion made me hopeful I could be promoted again sooner.
Fast forward 2 weeks and I’m chatting with this coworker as we usually do and I mentioned HR didn’t have the answers to my questions and I told him what some of them were and I mentioned I noticed he got promoted early so that made me wonder more about the process. We had conversations that were positive after that later that day. But 2 days later he had blocked me on his personal phone, social media (we weren’t connected on social media except linked in). I didn’t confirm this until a few days later, though. I assumed my messages didn’t go through becuse he didn’t have service and it was a Friday anyway.
Come to find out after asking my manager, Tom, what was going on, he said “maybe he is still upset because his promotion was rescinded” and no announcement was made (I don’t know why one would have been made) or else I wouldn’t have made the comment to him. Jim has a history of misunderstanding me and assuming negative intent with me. So at this point my manager and I figure out Jim must have assumed I pointed out his promotion and that’s why it was taken away. Nothing like that happened. My manager was going to try to clear it up with him but it was too late.
Less than a week after my visit with my manager I received a call from Hr Stating that Jim accused me of sexual harassment. He said that I inquired about his sexual orientation and I have people send me things from his social media. I don’t know what Jim is referring to in the second accusation but in the first, he’s referring to a conversation 2.5 years prior where he was in my car working with me and he was talking about his dating life. He kept saying “this person” so I asked what pronoun I should use because I didn’t want to be assumptive and wanted to be respectful. And he responded with “I’m gay.” Then we continued the conversation. Nothing ever changed and we remained friendly and professional. I have multiple texts of him trying to set me up with friends, thanking me for being a great coworker, talking to me about his dog and his family, sending pics etc. I’ve even helped him gain professional success (I had no responsibility or obligation to do that- it’s not part of my job).
I believe he is retaliating based on the incorrect assumption I am the reason he lost his promotion. HR kept telling me those two things were unrelated and I also explained the actual conversation. I followed up with a very detailed email of the timeline of events and I asked what happened in the 2 days from us having a friendly positive conversation to me being blocked and reported to HR. My old manager, Luke, was promoted recently and he hired both Jim and I and he was aware that this conversation happened with Jim early in his employment at the company and he also witnessed our personal and professional relationship be quite positive. So, after sending a detailed to HR I told Luke that it would be helpful if he could confirm with HR that he knew this conversation happened very early in Jim’s employment and to attest that I never treated him differently and that Jim and I had a positive working relationship. Luke called me and told me i have his support and he knows who I am and how I am and he will email HR. He did not cc me on the email.
I also told HR that Luke can corroborate this claim.
At this point I’m concerned that I am going to be terminated because thats “easier.” I’m also concerned that there is more I should be doing. I’ve done through our texts and taken screen shots showing dates of where we were both being friendly and respectful over the last 2.5 years.
What else should I be doing? And what are my options for recourse?

i work at a workplace and it requires a certain service being done in a specific amount of time (40 mins) if you get a complaint that the service was done too quickly it gets deducted from your paycheque (5$-15$) one of my coworkers who is around the same age as the boss got into an argument because the employer had deducted money off her paycheque today due to service being too long by 5 mins. i’m a new employee at this workplace but i had done a service in 35 mins and i had gotten the talk by the employer to read the rules at the back for each service and she had seemed mad. i personally don’t think it’s a big deal because it’s a 5 min difference. i understand if the service was done too quick or too long then yes it should be deducted but i don’t even get why it’s being deducted in the first place. the employer is also kinda of weird and tell me if im wrong or not but she had seen me wear gloves for a certain service that doesn’t require gloves but i wore gloves because i have eczema and contact with products can irritate my skin and she noticed i wore gloves to do the service that doesn’t require gloves and she told me that she’s gonna deduct it from my paycheque because im using extra gloves for a service that doesn’t require gloves. i didn’t end up wearing gloves all day for that service and now my skin is very irritated. please let me know your guys input.

Are you fluent in both English and Spanish? Are you passionate about providing exceptional customer service? We are seeking a dedicated Remote Spanish-Speaking Customer Service Representative to join our team.
Job Description: As a Remote Spanish-Speaking Customer Service Representative, you will be responsible for providing outstanding support to our Spanish-speaking clients. Your primary duties will include:

• Handling inbound customer inquiries via phone, email, and chat in both English and Spanish.
• Assisting customers with questions regarding our services, programs, and platform.
• Resolving customer issues and ensuring a positive experience.
• Creating quotes and sales invoices.
• Collaborating with our team to continuously improve our customer support processes.

Requirements:

• Fluent in both English and Spanish (written and verbal).
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
• Customer service experience preferred, but not required.
• Comfortable working remotely and independently.

How to Apply: If you are passionate about helping others and meet the requirements listed above, we'd love to hear from you! Please submit your resume to our email ([krystal@afterprints.com](mailto:krystal@afterprints.com)) and a brief cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you're interested in joining us as a Remote Spanish-Speaking Customer Service Representative. Please use this Subject: SPANISH/ENGLISH CSR Application

Salary is negotiable based on your skills and experience.

Thank you.

I’m currently 17w and FTM. I have a good doctor who put thru the paperwork because I found out quite early around 3 weeks. So far I’ve had 3 doctors appointments, NIPT and dating + 12w scan. Only got a letter now from royal women’s confirming my midwife appointment which isn’t even at the hospital but it appears to be in a community service. My doctor said my first appointment would be a the hospital and I would then have the choice to choose shared care. Also the date for this appointment has me at 20w.
Just feel a bit lost in the system here. I’ve had a pretty uneventful pregnancy and normal scans but do feel highly anxious and sort of left behind. Keep reading about OB & Midwives and their roles in pregnancy but i don’t even think I’ll end up having an OB since I’ll be seen in a small community clinic and well into my 2nd trimester before I’m even seen.
Is this the normal experience ?

Are you fluent in both English and Spanish? Are you passionate about providing exceptional customer service? We are seeking a dedicated Remote Spanish-Speaking Customer Service Representative to join our team.
Job Description: As a Remote Spanish-Speaking Customer Service Representative, you will be responsible for providing outstanding support to our Spanish-speaking clients. Your primary duties will include:

• Handling inbound customer inquiries via phone, email, and chat in both English and Spanish.
• Assisting customers with questions regarding our services, programs, and platform.
• Resolving customer issues and ensuring a positive experience.
• Creating quotes and sales invoices.
• Collaborating with our team to continuously improve our customer support processes.

Requirements:

• Fluent in both English and Spanish (written and verbal).
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
• Customer service experience preferred, but not required.
• Comfortable working remotely and independently.

How to Apply: If you are passionate about helping others and meet the requirements listed above, we'd love to hear from you! Please submit your resume to our email ([krystal@afterprints.com](mailto:krystal@afterprints.com)) and a brief cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you're interested in joining us as a Remote Spanish-Speaking Customer Service Representative. Please use this Subject: SPANISH/ENGLISH CSR Application

Salary is negotiable based on your skills and experience.

Thank you.

I was awarded 100% P&T but my claim was still in Evidence Gathering. Had a call with VERA today and she said they wanted clarification for the chronic pain that I claimed along with other diagnoses. ("On your application for benefits you claimed chronic pain. Please specify where and what your chronic pain is specifically. Thank you") In the original claim process they divided the chronic pain into neck and back, which I have stenosis and herniated discs in both. They denied those based off of no service connection. I am a gulf war veteran and am service connected for chronic fatigue. I have a 4 year history in treating fibromyalgia/chronic pain with the VA and was apart of an Alpha-stem study. I have been on many medications and it is documented in my VA notes.
Would they possiblycombine with other disabilities and I would open a can of worms? I have a decision letter and received back pay, but it was not back dated to the Pact Act date. Would my backpay date change if I was given a diagnosis for chronic pain or fibro in 2020? My intent to file was May 8, 2023.
I have had a rough few of years with my health and I just want to try and relax. I plan on moving across the country in a couple of months to be closer to family so that I have more support. I would rather not wait around for another exam. I have had two already for multiple issues and its stressful as hell.
If I were rated it would not make me eligible for SMC. So I think I am going to withdraw, I just wanted to get more heads on this. Lots of anxiety. Thanks

I have old tickets 10years plus. They are just putting out an arrest warrant for me. I supposedly paid every ticket off when I got my license back from suspended they gave me a paper because I paid everything off. Now I have some they didn't know I had back when I paid off my tickets to get my license back. I turned myself in and now have court for it. They should have been paid off when I got a award letter saying I had a clean slate and can get my license that was 10 years ago.

I am a reservist and was on active duty orders for 6 months from Feb-Aug 2018. During this time I worked an irregular work schedule (8 hour shifts, morning, afternoon and graveyard shifts, swapping shifts every 2 weeks with no recovery days). Because of this rotating shift work/irregular work schedule, I developed several sleep issues (waking up multiple times, cant get to sleep, dry mouth, sore throat, headaches from sleeping). I did NOT go to the doctors office when i was on orders so its all in my civ medical records. I was diagnosed by a civilian doctor with Moderate OSA and prescribed a CPAP. Im concerned the VA will not consider it service connected since it was diagnosed long after and i am reserve. I have 3 letters from people who were on shift work, 1 of which also has OSA. I'm also going to include studies regarding irregular work schedules and OSA.
What are my chances here?

A year ago, I made this post recapping my first-year admissions cycle. I ended up going to my safety state school, and was absolutely crushed by the rejections I received and the fact that I wasn't going to end up at the type of school I had previously envisioned for myself. Fast forward to half a year-ish later, I decided to shoot my shot at transferring - and here are my results!
Demographics

• Gender: Female
• Race/Ethnicity: Asian
• Residence: West
• Income Bracket: Upper middle class
• Hooks (Recruited Athlete, URM, First-Gen, Geographic, Legacy, etc.): None
• Type of school: State school (not very highly ranked, but not on the bottom end either)

Intended Major(s): UChicago - Biology & History, Social Studies, and Philosophy of Medicine, Duke - Biology, Cornell - Biology & Science and Technology Studies, Brown - Biology & Science, Technology, and Society, UPenn - Biology & Science and Technology Studies
Academics

• GPA (UW/W): HS GPA - 3.9/4.8 // College GPA - 4.0

Extracurriculars/Activities
Included most HS ECs from previous post and the following college ECs:

• Social media editor and writer for student newspaper
• Research assistant for a lab on campus
• Member of college book club
• Participated in medical volunteering/outreach club, aiding homeless populations in community

Awards/Honors
Included most HS awards from previous post and Dean's list from college.
Letters of Recommendation
Got rec letters from 2 professors I had in my first semester of college. I only had them for one semester, so I imagine it wouldn't be the strongest letter they've ever written - but I made a genuine effort to connect with these profs outside of class!
Essays
In contrast to the way I approached my first-year applications, I actually did not have anyone look over my supplemental essays. I did have my profs, parents, and a graduate student writing tutor look over my "why transfer" essay (which is the equivalent of the common app essay for transfer admissions) - but mostly for grammar and clarity, and not for changing the content.
Interviews
I was not offered any transfer interviews!
Decisions (indicate ED/EA/REA/SCEA/RD)

• Duke -> Rejected
• UChicago -> Accepted!
• Cornell -> Accepted! (Non transfer option)
• Brown -> Accepted!
• UPenn -> Rejected

Reflection/Additional thoughts:
For current seniors who may not have had the best college admissions cycle, I hope my experience shows that your life does not end with college rejections! Ironically, I might not end up leaving my state school. Since applying to transfer, I've really fallen in love with the school and have found so many enriching educational and professional opportunities. If your cycle didn't go the way you wanted, there's always to transfer elsewhere or succeed wherever you end up!

7 postal workers charged in RI mail theft ring original article - https://www.wpri.com/news/local-news/providence/arrests-made-in-ri-mail-theft-ring/
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — Federal investigators have broken up a “well-organized and wide-ranging conspiracy” to steal valuables from the mail.
The alleged conspiracy involved a supervisor and six other workers at the U.S. Postal Service processing and distribution center in Providence, which handles all incoming and outgoing mail for Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts.
U.S. Attorney Zachary Cunha announced the arrests Wednesday afternoon, alongside special agents from the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General.The following people have been charged with theft of mail by a postal employee and conspiracy:
Cyril Murray, 44, of Pawtucket (supervisor) Darren Camacho, 30, of Providence Fernando Camacho, 28, of Providence Willie Estrella, 31, of Providence Ryan Lee, 43, of Cranston Angel Rivera, 27, of Providence Andre Williams, 31, of North Providence
The Corliss Street facility handles roughly 3.5 million pieces of mail every day, according to Cunha.
Investigators allege that from March 2023 through February 2024, those who worked as mail sorters would pull certain envelopes out of the stream, then smuggle them out of the facility in backpacks. The group would later meet up to divide the take.
As an example, Cunha said that during the holiday season, the suspects would target brightly colored envelopes that may have contained cash, checks or gift cards.
It’s currently unclear how much was stolen in total, but Cunha indicated there were “massive” losses. He said at one point, one of the suspects was caught with a backpack stuffed with business envelopes containing approximately $1.3 million worth of checks.
“I would emphasize that these thefts were not isolated occurrences,” Cunha said. “Surveillance conducted during the investigation showed multiple members of the conspiracy engaged in taking, setting aside and then smuggling stolen mail out from the facility on any given day.”
The investigation is ongoing.

Background - 4 years in role Performance - generally good, always performing on year end. Last year manager said ready for new role. Latest review - not performing as well due to below points given time in role.
Can you be put on a PIP for the following reasons:
1-Attention to detail -Minominimal typos for example, if you misspell one letter from word, or write the wrong word believing it to be the correct word. 2- How you decide to write and format a report or an email. Senior makes changes which are rephrasing that appear to be personal preference. Also, restructuring by moving your work around and changing words or sentences, but the aim/objective of the statement is the same.
Due to point 2 I am informed this reflects badly on me not providing a report senior is happy with.
Previously this was accepted as everyone writes differently.
I believe that the 2nd point would be difficult as it’s subjective and you cannot train someone to write the exactly the same. The content of what is written is there, it’s just personal preference. How could targets be set and sufficient training be provided to support an employee improve.
I have evidence saved of the senior making numerous typos and significant mistakes which have caused impacts/delays. I also saved examples of personal preference changes that add no value.
I feel this level of critical scrutinising and micro management is an attempt to bully me out of the organisation. what further evidence do I need to raise a grievance? Would HR consider my evidence? What would be the outcome?

CRAZY DAY! 2 am this morning I noticed it said a letter has been sent, yet the Claim is still processing. So I went to my letters and found one giving an overall rating and $$ amount but not the individual ratings. Then back pay was deposited this afternoon! …but claim status is still showing as “processing” and 3 of the conditions filed for are not shown at all.
4 conditions were denied service connection (which is crazy because they were actually in-service events that medical care was given for!)
So I guess I’m asking if anyone knows why 3 of the conditions aren’t showing up at all? Is it possible that they will show up later and raise the overall disability %??

I wanted to share my experience with the entire Carvana package now that our car is paid off and all monetary transactions with them are over.
This will get long, as it started in 2019.
We bought our 17' Rogue from Carvana in April of 2019. I was researching vehicles for close to 3 months before finally pulling the trigger on this particular model. It was about 34k miles, 2.5 years old, located in Illinois. I liked the geographic area for chances the vehicle hadn't seen a lot of snow for the first 2 years of it life as Carfax activity showed it was most likely in the southern part of the state.
I also chose this specific Rogue as the VIN indicated the vehicle was made in South Korea, as opposed to Tennessee. The difference is all Rogues made in South Korea received engines and CVT's from Japan, while US made models had engines from Japan or US, and CVT's from Mexico which was a no go for me. I will also go one more and state Korean labor for assembly is far more disciplined than what you find in the US and especially mexico. Fun fact for those still paying attention - The Nissan Rogue's that have the flat Nissan logo on the grille behind smoked plastic were made in South Korea. They stopped production there in early 2020.
What interested me in Carvana was-

1. Buying a car is the sleaziest most frustrating process from a dealer
   
2. I could hand pick from an inventory of cars across the country willing to pay for delivery
   
3. They offered me 500 dollars off the final price of a car in a letter campaign, as they were still growing
   

I started looking over inventory for a month, and decided to sign up and go for the soft credit pull to see what terms Carvana would offer. I was prequalified for a used car loan through my credit union, so I wanted to see Carvana's terms would be. The loan and term tools were pretty damn cool at the time, you could just jiggle those sliders and almost completely tailor a lending solution to fit your needs.
After the soft credit pull and a single pay stub, Carvana pre-approved me for any car up to 90k, with zero money down. I laughed. Hard. I had decent credit but wasnt going to bury myself.
After I settled down to a few models, I worked through the trade-in portion of the site, and found it was real easy to get a quote to trade in our 2005 Escape XLT which was a great car, but in Ford fashion the frame was rotting away. I had a fair offer for the trade in, described it honestly.
We also opted for the SilverRock warranty. Nissan, CVT, etc.
The big sale!
After watching how quickly some cars came and went early on, I got everything I needed for the trade in. Scan of the title, picture of the milage, car pictures. We were putting 2k down on the car, so the cash was waiting in my account, ready for transfer or cashier check if we were going to go with Carvana final loan offer.
The day I pulled the trigger on our Rogue, the entire process took all of 20 minutes. I was amazed, and honestly thought at the time "This should be illegal for how easy that was".
The offer for Carvana finance was within a couple tenths of my credit union, so I opted to simplify the process and go with them. Carvana performed a hard pull on my credit, confirmed the terms, and required confirmation from my bank that the money for deposit was in my account. I provided my bank login credentials and the process was done in minutes.
I had to provide a copy of my license and items related to the trade in, and it was done, in literally 20 minutes. I wondered if I was making a mistake..
It was an amazing deal, every dealer in the area was selling the same model for well over 2k of what we paid, so the SilverRock warranty was pretty much free after the additional 500 discount off the final price of the car.
Delivery - Trade in!
It was delayed. Twice. Pretty disappointing. Some pretty lame excuses. Honestly I should have expected a reasonable delivery date as the I knew the car I bought was 1500 miles away, but Carvana makes unrealistic delivery promises and is my biggest gripe regarding them.
When delivery day finally came, the Rogue was everything I had hoped it would be. While on the delivery truck I asked to inspect the undercarriage, and the driver was super friendly and allowed me to take my time. I looked it all over, looking for rust, oil leaks, you name it and I found nothing nothing, including nothing suspect like it had been cleaned. It was a 2-ish year old car with light dirt and surface rust where you would expect.
Once the Rogue was unloaded I was free to look it over with a fine comb, pop the hood, check the fluids, look for dents and dings, paint issues, interior issues, you name it. I found nothing major, just some minor things like paint polish slag in small corners and what not. Interior was very clean and detailed.
While I was looking over the Rogue, the delivery driver was loading the trade-in. He took some pictures, verified the mileage, checked the "check engine" light was off and started loading it on his truck.
I live in Massachusetts with very strict license and registration requirements. A few days before the delivery, someone from the Danvers site reached out to me about the registration details. I was transferring the plates from the trade in and they were finalizing the paperwork. I was provided the new registration, and the delivery driver had the new registration in hand so we could just put the plates on the Rogue and be ready to roll.
I took the Rogue for a 20 minute test drive, signed off on the purchase and trade. Driver headed off with the trade in and that was it. Carvana never called or questioned what they gave me for the trade.
Post delivery!
The very next day I brought the Rogue to work, I work in transportation/logistics and my site has ASE mechanics that I know very well. I asked him to go over the Rogue with the white glove and let me know if they think anything is wrong, as I have 6 days to return the car. They did so and they didnt find anything, just amazed at how clean the undercarriage, engine, and fluids were.
If I didn't have access to an ASE certified mechanic in this situation that I really trusted, I would have paid for a purchase inspection from a Nissan dealer. I did pay for the trusted inspection, just not in dollars lol.
After the personal vehicle inspection, my wife and I took off for a long weekend road trip roaming the White mountains of New Hampshire. Three days across many miles that easily blew out the initial vehicle 7 day warranty mileage. The Rogue was amazing through the mountains getting a ridiculous 30mpg through the entire trip. I wasn't concerned as people I trust cleared the car, and I also had the SilverRock warranty to cover the rest..
Speaking of warranty..
SilverRock!
The first, and pretty much only issue with the Rogue, was at about 48k miles. Massachusetts has a comprehensive yearly vehicle inspection program. At about 48k miles, the Rogue failed inspection for a bad inner tie rod, passenger side. Contacted SilverRock, and they gave me the local network shop here in Massachusetts, Monro.Monro is a regional repair shop here in MA with many locations. I take the Rogue to them and they diagnose that indeed the passenger side inner tie rod has gone bad. Repair tech states he has never seen one go bad on a Nissan at the current mileage.
The service manager starts looking around for the parts, called about 5 places, then calls a Nissan dealer. The Nissan dealer informs him the inner tie rod is not available for the 17, the only way to to repair the defect is replace the entire electric steering rack which comes with the inner and outer tie rods complete.
I call SilverRock with the service manager. I provide my name and vehicle make, SilverRock knows who I am right away. SilverRock rep asks whats wrong, service manager laid it down. SilverRock rep transfers us to a manager, manager asked about a few more details and then asked the service manager of Monro to send the estimate.
I get a call from the manager of Monro the next day, he said he went back and forth with SilverRock for about 20 minutes and got the entire job covered, throwing in a free front end alignment, for 1500 dollars using a genuine Nissan OEM steering rack.
SilverRock paid everything but the 100 dollar deductible. I picked up the Rogue 2 days later, paid 100, and went back for inspection. It passed.
Anyone reading this that knows about car repair, an inner tie rod costs maybe 150 dollars OEM. The fact it wasn't available and they had to replace the entire rack was absurd, yet they did it with a new OEM rack. At the time SilverRock could have required a rack used from a salvage yard, but they didn't.
I have nothing but positive things to say about SilverRock.
Bridgecrest!!
The silent partner.
I have NEVER spoken to someone at Bridgecrest. I have never called them. They have never called me.
I have NEVER emailed Bridgecrest. They have emailed me every single month for the life of my loan, after making a payment.
They fronted me the money, and expected it back. I paid it back, as expected. On time.
5 stars, and they will return the favor on my credit now that the loan is clear.
WHY YOUR MILEAGE MAY VARY
Do your homework - buying a car is a capital investment in your future that loses money. You need a car to be reliable for your job, your family, your life. You need to spend money on a regular basis to keep that car reliable, on top of your car payment.
Know your budget - Dont fall for finance traps. Only buy what you can comfortably afford, again, owning a car costs you more money than what's on the final loan payment.
Get your car inspected ASAP - Pay a dealer for a purchase inspection. Schedule it ahead of time. Inform Carvana of the issues within 3 days of delivery and ask them to pick up the car. Carvana will make the car right, as they dont want to take the car back from qualified buyers. Keep on top of them until the car is what was expected.
Why Carvana may be bad for you
You have bad credit - Better know what you are signing on for. The majority of complaints in this sub are from people that have bad credit, cant read, and cant learn from past mistakes. Thats a personal problem, not a Carvana problem.
Closing
Aside from some delays in delivery, We have had an amazing 5 year journey with Carvana and associated companies. Our Rogue is now at over 100k miles and still drives and looks like new. We perform all maintenance as required, without question.
Living in MA, the last 5 years our Rogue has taken us thousands of miles over the White Mountains of New Hampshire, all through the Mountains of Maine, and multiple trips to Canada to visit the iconic Niagara Falls.
My wife travels every day for work, and the Rogue is her daily driver putting 3k miles on the clock every 2.5 months. We change the oil every 3k miles, perform the required CVT services at the dealer, and keep the tires rotated every 8K.
The tires that came on the Rogue from Carvana were in fact new, but the kind of tires that have a 30k mile treadwear warranty. The first snowy New England day we slipped through a stop sign in light snow, the next week we replaced the tires all around with BF Goodrich Advantage TA sport tires and the Rogue has been amazing in the snow ever since.
After getting our Rogue, my coworker was so impressed he bought not 1, but 2 cars from Carvana. Bastard got both cars delivered on time, on the same day, from different parts of the country.. I was so jealous lol. His cars had some minor issues, but Carvana took car of them.
My daughter bought a Nissan as well from Carvana. It had a few front end issues, but ultimately was taken care of through constant communication with Carvana during the 7 day test drive.
Will I use Carvana again? Yes.
Will it be soon? Not really.
Our other car is a Hyundai and running strong.
Hope some of my diatribe will be useful to anyone considering Carvana as usually is all bad mouth drival posted here.

Me and my roommate have lived in an apartment complex in Tennessee for two years. The original lease has us paying for electric and internet while the landlord pays for water and sewage. A few weeks ago we had a new landlord take over, and soon we got a letter in the mail asking us to agree to using RUBS (Ratio Utility Billing Services). It would be an addendum to our lease, and would have us paying for all utilities. I know implementing RUBS is legal, but is there a way to wiggle out of it since it wasn't in the current lease?

TLDR: I believe coworker thinks it’s my fault his promotion was rescinded and he retaliated by accusing me of sexually harassing him by asking his sexual orientation 2.5 years ago because I asked him what pronouns I should use when describing the person he is dating and he told me “im gay.” We have had a good working and personal relationship since as documented by texts. Hr didn’t think it was related but I sent a detailed email to HR explaining the timeline and our relationship as well as how the convo actually went down. My old manager (promoted) corroborated that the convo occurred 2.5 years ago and that I was always respectful and did not treat him differently. What else do I need to do? What are my options for recourse?
Recently, a coworker “Jim” received a promotion that I noticed was outside of the parameters set by our company as i understood it. It prompted questions about our career progression timeline as well as other questions so I reached out to HR. I didn’t mention this employee or even reference another employee I just asked specific general questions about our promotional process, timeline, and requirements so I prepared to be promoted quickly and also managed my expectations. Honestly, his early promotion made me hopeful I could be promoted again sooner.
Fast forward 2 weeks and I’m chatting with this coworker as we usually do and I mentioned HR didn’t have the answers to my questions and I told him what some of them were and I mentioned I noticed he got promoted early so that made me wonder more about the process. We had conversations that were positive after that later that day. But 2 days later he had blocked me on his personal phone, social media (we weren’t connected on social media except linked in). I didn’t confirm this until a few days later, though. I assumed my messages didn’t go through becuse he didn’t have service and it was a Friday anyway.
Come to find out after asking my manager, Tom, what was going on, he said “maybe he is still upset because his promotion was rescinded” and no announcement was made (I don’t know why one would have been made) or else I wouldn’t have made the comment to him. Jim has a history of misunderstanding me and assuming negative intent with me. So at this point my manager and I figure out Jim must have assumed I pointed out his promotion and that’s why it was taken away. Nothing like that happened. My manager was going to try to clear it up with him but it was too late.
Less than a week after my visit with my manager I received a call from Hr Stating that Jim accused me of sexual harassment. He said that I inquired about his sexual orientation and I have people send me things from his social media. I don’t know what Jim is referring to in the second accusation but in the first, he’s referring to a conversation 2.5 years prior where he was in my car working with me and he was talking about his dating life. He kept saying “this person” so I asked what pronoun I should use because I didn’t want to be assumptive and wanted to be respectful. And he responded with “I’m gay.” Then we continued the conversation. Nothing ever changed and we remained friendly and professional. I have multiple texts of him trying to set me up with friends, thanking me for being a great coworker, talking to me about his dog and his family, sending pics etc. I’ve even helped him gain professional success (I had no responsibility or obligation to do that- it’s not part of my job).
I believe he is retaliating based on the incorrect assumption I am the reason he lost his promotion. HR kept telling me those two things were unrelated and I also explained the actual conversation. I followed up with a very detailed email of the timeline of events and I asked what happened in the 2 days from us having a friendly positive conversation to me being blocked and reported to HR. My old manager, Luke, was promoted recently and he hired both Jim and I and he was aware that this conversation happened with Jim early in his employment at the company and he also witnessed our personal and professional relationship be quite positive. So, after sending a detailed to HR I told Luke that it would be helpful if he could confirm with HR that he knew this conversation happened very early in Jim’s employment and to attest that I never treated him differently and that Jim and I had a positive working relationship. Luke called me and told me i have his support and he knows who I am and how I am and he will email HR. He did not cc me on the email.
I also told HR that Luke can corroborate this claim.
At this point I’m concerned that I am going to be terminated because thats “easier.” I’m also concerned that there is more I should be doing. I’ve done through our texts and taken screen shots showing dates of where we were both being friendly and respectful over the last 2.5 years.
What else should I be doing? And what are my options for recourse?

Tysons, Virginia, a bustling hub of commerce and innovation, also caters to the discerning palate with a remarkable selection of steakhouses. From classic steakhouses steeped in tradition to modern interpretations of the genre, Tysons offers an unforgettable culinary experience for every steak enthusiast. Here, we meticulously curate a list of Tysons' finest steakhouses, each lauded for exceptional service, impeccable ambiance, and, of course, the art of grilling the perfect steak.
For the Discerning Traditionalist: Establishments Steeped in Steakhouse History

• The Palm Tysons Corner: Established in 1926 in New York City, The Palm has become synonymous with iconic steakhouses. Their Tysons location carries on the legacy with a timeless elegance. USDA Prime cuts of beef reign supreme, dry-aged for unmatched tenderness and flavor. The signature Palm rib-eye, carved tableside, is a must-try, while the colossal bone-in ribeye is a shareable indulgence for the adventurous diner. An extensive wine list boasting vintages from around the globe ensures a perfect pairing for every cut.
• Morton's The Steakhouse: Another titan of the steakhouse world, Morton's offers an unwavering commitment to quality and service. Their Tysons location features a luxuriously appointed dining room, ideal for a special occasion or a power business lunch. Expect an impressive selection of USDA Prime beef, cooked to precise doneness. Morton's signature cut, the bone-in filet mignon, is a testament to their expertise. An impressive seafood selection and classic steakhouse sides like creamed spinach and lobster mac and cheese round out the menu.

For the Modern Palate: Innovative Interpretations of the Steakhouse Experience

• Capital Grille: Capital Grille brings a contemporary twist to the steakhouse experience. Their sleek, urban-chic dining room pulsates with energy. The menu showcases high-quality cuts of USDA Prime beef alongside creative appetizers and innovative side dishes. Capital Grille's dry-aged steaks offer an intense depth of flavor, while their wagyu tasting menu is a luxurious indulgence for adventurous gourmands. An award-winning wine list featuring both established and up-and-coming vintners complements the exceptional cuisine.
• J. Alexanders: J. Alexanders strikes a balance between classic comfort and modern innovation. The warm, inviting atmosphere creates a perfect setting for a relaxed and enjoyable meal. Their menu boasts a diverse selection of steaks, including USDA Prime cuts alongside lesser-known yet equally delicious options like hanger steak and flat iron steak. J. Alexanders prides itself on using only the freshest, high-quality ingredients, evident in their flavorful cuts and creative sides like truffle mac and cheese and roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon.

Beyond the Steak: Exploring Upscale Accompaniments
While the steak is undoubtedly the star of the show at these establishments, it's the exceptional accompaniments that elevate the dining experience to new heights. Expect to find a wide array of tempting appetizers, from succulent oysters Rockefeller and decadent foie gras to chilled seafood towers and lobster bisque. Classic steakhouse sides are offered alongside more inventive creations, ensuring there's something to tantalize every taste bud. Creamy mashed potatoes, crispy onion rings, and creamed spinach are perennial favorites, while dishes like truffle fries, roasted asparagus with parmesan cheese, and sauteed mushrooms with garlic add a touch of modern flair.
The Art of the Perfect Steak: Selecting Your Cut
For the uninitiated steak enthusiast, navigating the diverse cuts of meat on a steakhouse menu can be daunting. Here's a brief guide to some of the most popular options:

• Filet Mignon: The quintessential cut for steak purists, the filet mignon is known for its exceptional tenderness and buttery texture. Due to its lean nature, it is typically cooked to medium-rare to preserve its juiciness.
• Ribeye: A steak lover's delight, the ribeye is richly marbled with fat, resulting in an intense flavor and juicy bite. The generous marbling also makes it forgiving of slightly higher cooking temperatures.
• New York Strip: A flavorful cut with a good balance of meat and fat, the New York Strip offers a satisfying chew and robust beef taste. It is a versatile cut that can be cooked to various doneness levels.
• T-Bone Steak: This impressive cut combines a filet mignon on one side and a New York strip on the other, offering diners the best of both worlds in terms of tenderness and flavor.

Maximizing Your Tysons Steakhouse Experience: A Guide for Discerning Diners

To maximize your Tysons steakhouse experience, consider these following tips:

• Make a Reservation: Tysons' finest steakhouses are popular among locals and visitors alike. To secure a table, especially on weekends or for special occasions, be sure to make a reservation well in advance. Most establishments offer online reservation options for your convenience.
• Dress Code: While some steakhouses in Tysons cater to a business casual crowd, establishments like The Palm and Morton's maintain a dressier atmosphere. A jacket and tie for men and a cocktail dress or elegant pantsuit for women are appropriate attire for these upscale venues.
• Understanding the Menu: Familiarize yourself with the menu beforehand, especially if you're unfamiliar with steakhouse cuts or terminology. Many steakhouses offer online menus for browsing. Don't hesitate to ask your server for recommendations or clarification on any menu items.
• Navigating Steak Options: Consider your preferences when choosing your steak. Filet mignon is ideal for those who prioritize tenderness, while ribeye offers a bolder flavor with its rich marbling. New York strip provides a good balance and is suitable for a range of cooking temperatures.
• Doneness Preference: Specify your desired doneness level when ordering your steak. Here's a quick guide:It's important to note that preference plays a big role. If you're unsure, medium rare is generally recommended to best experience the flavor and texture of the steak.
  • Rare: A cool, red center with a warm exterior (120°F)
  • Medium Rare: A warm red center with a seared exterior (130°F)
  • Medium: A slightly pink center with a cooked exterior (140°F)
  • Medium Well: Mostly cooked with a hint of pink in the center (150°F)
  • Well Done: Cooked throughout with no pink remaining (160°F)
• Exploring Accompaniments: Don't underestimate the power of side dishes to elevate your steak experience. Consider balancing out your protein-rich steak with lighter options like roasted vegetables or a simple salad. For a decadent indulgence, share a side of creamed spinach or truffle fries.
• Wine Pairings: Many steakhouses boast extensive wine lists featuring a diverse selection of reds that pair beautifully with steak. If you're unfamiliar with wine pairings, consult your server for recommendations based on your chosen steak and your taste preferences.
• Embrace the Experience: Savoring a perfectly cooked steak at a luxurious steakhouse is an experience to be savored. Relax, take your time, and indulge in every delicious bite.

By following these tips, you can ensure an unforgettable and delightful dining experience at Tysons' premier steakhouses. So go forth, discerning diner, and explore the world of exquisite cuts, impeccable service, and the art of the perfect steak in Tysons, Virginia.

I just finished my junior year of undergrad and am chem major and biology minor. I put in a lot of work and am really hoping it pays off with financial compensation.
Plz feel free to suggest personal statement or secondary app essay idea, scholarships based off any of this info, etc. It would be so so so appreciated!!!

1. My GPA is an 3.88 & my prereq gpa for UHCO is a 3.97. I’ve received one B (1hr lab) in my major and one in a biology course (3hrs). Outside of STEM I have 3 B’s in core class I took my senior year of HS. We went virtual near midterms bc covid and I did not have a laptop/computer, wifi, nor cell service (I live in rural area). I finished the course w my phone and public wifi from the town 15 min over.
   
2. I will graduate in Spring ‘25 with my American Chemical Association accreditation (ACS). It’s ensure chem degree of academic rigor.
   
3. I have 80+ hours of undergraduate research and enrolled in a Summer Research Experience (SRE). A summer 2 class w 30hrs/week of research. There are future conferences like ACS & other symposiums to ensure proper scientific communication.
   
4. I have 300+ volunteer hours. Earned from serving my church, volunteer orgs, MD Anderson Cancer Treatment camp councilor, rep for chem at recruitment fairs, being in student panals, etc.
   
5. I have been apart of 3 orgs & officers of 2: A non profit organization for drunk driving (we volunteer from 9PM to 3AM offering free rides to intoxicated students, kinda like free Uber) for 2 years, an honor society association for 3 years, and a Christian org for 3 years. I was treasurer for the non profit org for a year. I am currently the vice president of my christian org and have been for a year, I got promoted from treasurer which I held for a year as well .
   
6. I’m in my schools honors college and of have taken the honors section of gen chem I/II w lab, & intro to stats. I’ve also honors contracted advanced inorganic & biochemistry. My honors GPA is a 4.0.
   
7. I was a tutor for the Academic Assistance and Resource Assistance (AARC) at my university. This program is regionally & nationally accredited. The tutors can only be selected by profs & to have ITTP certifications. I have tutored Intro to Stats and Calc I & II for 2 years. Team Lead for Calc Math for a year. I was later recommended to tutored both sections of gen & o chem and have been for a year.
   
8. I was asked to TA gen chem I & II lab. I have done so for a year. I was also asked to be a TA for o chem I lab. I accepted and was asked to continue to next section but couldn’t (bc scheduling conflicts).
   
9. I have about 35 hours of shadowing from varying specialties of optometry and a few from ophthalmologist.
   
10. I am taking my OAT in mid July
    
11. I don’t think HS stuff matters but I was class Historian & had many academic achievements and a lot of service hours. (I went to a small rural 1A HS w/ only 29 in grad class. I just barely made top 10% as 3rd ranked)
    
12. I’ve gotten academic awards/scholarships for things like service hours, good gpa, chemistry, honors colleges, etc. Some of which are only granted based off recommendations.
    

*To simplify it, so far I’ve been a full time student (~15 hrs), working two jobs (Tutoring & TA) whilst being in two officer position w/ two dif orgs. I then worked hard and got another job offer and a promotion (Tutoring Team Lead & TA (gen chem and o chem)) on top of the previously mentioned responsibilities.
SUMMARY: (The part that I actually need advise on)

 All this to be said, I am first gen college student from an ‘economically disadvantaged’ family of 7, I have had 4 siblings (2M & 2F) who’ve all tried college and have flunked out. In Spring ‘25 I will be the first person from either side of my family to earned a bachelors. (My dad never finished HS and none of my grandparents even finished middle school). I primarily worked so hard to eleviate some financial requirements for my eduction. I even took my senior year of HS and freshmen year of college simultaneously to save money. I found a passion for optometry/eye care due to having refractive and strabismic amblyopia from 8y/o to 16y/o until I got corrective surgery. 

I top pick is UHCO but I am applying to both optom schools in tx and the one in oklahoma. I hate to have put in all this work for no compensation and am curious as what to do?