I am an SC State employee, and have BCBS insurance. Once a year they offer a free preventative screening including bloodwork. I got billed and nobody will fix it.
​
Here is the details for the insurance benefit/promise:
https://statesc.southcarolinablues.com/web/public/brands/statesc/medical/peba-perks/preventive-screening/
https://www.peba.sc.gov/peba-perks
​
Long story short, I made an appointment with their preferred screening partner provider, Drs. Care
https://statesc.southcarolinablues.com/web/public/brands/statesc/medical/peba-perks/preventive-screening/preventive-screening-providers/
​
I printed and brought the voucher with me:
https://statesc.southcarolinablues.com/web/public/resources/c9b7d0d4-1bbd-4569-9d1f-27dab05f9106/STGP_216783_23_PEBA+Preventive+Screening+Voucher+-+Revisions.pdf?MOD=AJPERES&CVID=os4Etwr
On the intake form I was very clear that this visit is ONLY for the BCBS PEBA health screening services covered on the voucher to be billed as 96160
Despite this I got billed by Quest Diagnostics whom I have NEVER contracted with for the full amount $261.67
For
80061 LIPID PANNEL $148.10
85025 CBC, PLT, DIFF $45.50
80052 COMPREHEN METABOLOIC PANNEL $88.07
​
Upon complaining to both Dr. Care and the insurance they both assured me it was taken care of...
​
An adjustment was made ($138.89) to the Lipid panel. Insurance paid $9.21
​
It still shows I owe the full amount for CBC, PLT, DIFF and COMPREHEN METABOLIC PANEL
​
Amount is $133.57
​
What do I do now to make this mistake go away? Everyone I talk to except Quest says I don't owe anything. Quest says this is past due.
​
They have D-'s and F's on the BBB, so it is not like the providers and laboratory are going to care if I complain there.
​
What is my next step to escalate this?

In today's fast-paced corporate world, maintaining a clean and organised office environment is crucial for productivity and employee well-being. With the daily hustle and bustle, it's easy for clutter and dirt to accumulate, leading to a negative impact on both the aesthetics and functionality of your workspace. That's where professional office cleaning services come in. In this article, we will explore the importance of office cleaning services and how they can contribute to a clean, healthy, and productive work environment.

Creating a Positive First Impression

Enhancing Your Company's Image
When clients or potential partners walk into your office, their first impression is essential. A clean and well-maintained workspace reflects professionalism, attention to detail, and a commitment to excellence. Hiring office cleaning services ensures that your premises consistently look their best, leaving a lasting positive impression on visitors and stakeholders.
Boosting Employee Morale
A clean and clutter-free workspace has a significant impact on employee morale and job satisfaction. When employees arrive at a tidy office each day, they feel valued and motivated to do their best work. Moreover, a clean environment reduces distractions and promotes focus, leading to increased productivity and efficiency.

Maintaining a Healthy Workplace

Reducing the Spread of Illness
An office can be a breeding ground for germs and bacteria, leading to frequent employee illnesses and decreased productivity. Professional office cleaning services employ trained personnel equipped with the necessary tools and cleaning agents to eliminate harmful pathogens effectively. Regular cleaning and disinfection of commonly touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, keyboards, and telephones, significantly reduce the spread of contagious diseases, helping to keep your workforce healthy.
Improving Indoor Air Quality
Poor indoor air quality can have adverse effects on employee health and overall well-being. Dust, allergens, and pollutants can accumulate in carpets, upholstery, and ventilation systems, causing respiratory issues and allergies. Office cleaning services include thorough vacuuming, dusting, and air vent cleaning, ensuring that the air in your workspace remains clean and fresh. This, in turn, contributes to a healthier and more comfortable working environment, reducing sick leave and increasing productivity.

Maintaining a Clean and Organised Office

Comprehensive Cleaning Solutions
Professional office cleaning services offer a wide range of services tailored to suit your specific needs. From routine tasks like dusting, mopping, and vacuuming to more specialised cleaning tasks such as carpet and upholstery cleaning, they have the expertise and equipment to handle it all. With their meticulous attention to detail, you can trust that every nook and cranny of your office will be thoroughly cleaned, leaving your workspace looking its best.
Time and Cost Efficiency
Outsourcing your office cleaning needs allows your employees to focus on their core responsibilities, increasing overall productivity. Additionally, hiring professional cleaners eliminates the need to invest in costly cleaning equipment and supplies, saving you both time and money. With a cleaning service, you can customise the cleaning schedule to suit your office hours, ensuring minimal disruption to daily operations.
Office cleaning services play a vital role in maintaining a clean, healthy, and productive work environment. From creating a positive first impression to reducing the spread of illness and improving indoor air quality, their contributions are invaluable. By investing in professional cleaning services, you not only ensure a clean and organised workspace but also boost employee morale and productivity. So, if you're looking to enhance your company's image and create an optimal work environment, consider hiring office cleaning services today!

The People’s Republic of China (PRC) is the world’s emerging superpower. However, it is also a country facing a growing number of economical, social, and ecological issues.
China’s GDP exceeds $11 trillion dollars, making it the second largest in the world after the US. Despite this, its rate of economic growth has sharply dropped to 6% in 2016 from 9% in 2013. The PRC has a highly centralized and government-managed economy, along with strictly regulated political life. Notwithstanding, some Chinese provinces are allowed to pursue independent economic policies.
China officially has a multi-party political system. However, in practice, there is only one party that holds significant power — the Communist Party of China (CPC), which was founded on July 1, 1921. The CPC’s ideology is based on the Marxist-Leninist doctrine introduced by Karl Marx (a Prussian economist) and Friedrich Engels (a German philosopher and businessman) in the 1880s. This doctrine was later supplemented by the theory of Socialism by Vladimir Ulyanov-Lenin (a Russian politician and revolutionary).
The doctrine postulates that society is composed of two major economic classes — the working people (exploited) and the bourgeoisie (exploiters). According to this theory, a global economic crisis will lead to a revolution, with the working class taking control of the world and the bourgeoisie being eliminated. Ultimately, capitalism will cease to exist, and communism (where goods are freely available and nobody works) will prevail. Mao Zedong, the founder of the CPC, adapted this theory to the Chinese context by including Chinese farmers in the definition of the working class.
The PRC government plays a central role in both the political and economic aspects of China. The CPC governs China through an administrative pyramid, with the Central Committee (Politburo) and the National Congress at the top.
The National Congress is comprised of over 2000 delegates who are elected mainly from local CPC committee members. This assembly convenes for a two-week session in Beijing once a year. The 22 Chinese provinces are managed by regional governors appointed by the Central Committee, and their primary objective is to fulfill the CPC’s goal of achieving GDP growth. The government operates based on five-year plans.
The list of other political parties in China includes:
Revolutionary Committee of the Kuomintang (53,000 members, representing Taiwan residents in China); China Democratic League (130,000 members, mainly composed of the middle class); China Democratic National Construction Association (69,000 members, consisting of entrepreneurs); China Association for Promoting Democracy (64,000 members, primarily intellectuals); Chinese Peasants’ and Workers’ Democratic Party (65,000 members, representing government employees); Zhigongdang of China (15,000 members, representing overseas Chinese); Jiusan Society (68,000 members, comprising individual professionals); Taiwan Democratic Self-Government League (1,600 members, including prominent Chinese celebrities). All of these parties are aligned with and support the CPC in its major initiatives and policies. Opposition to the CPC is not tolerated.
Economic Review
Administratively China consists of 22 provinces, 5 autonomous regions, 4 municipalities directly under the central government, and 2 special administrative regions.
China’s main economic regions:
Eastern Coastal Region: This region includes provinces like Guangdong, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang, as well as Shanghai. It has been a major driver of China’s economic growth due to its proximity to international trade routes and its well-developed infrastructure. The Eastern Coastal Region contributes approximately 45–50% to China’s GDP. Western Region: The Western Region comprises provinces such as Sichuan, Chongqing, and Yunnan, as well as the Tibet Autonomous Region. This region is known for its rich natural resources, including minerals, energy, and agricultural products. The Western Region contributes around 15–20% to China’s GDP. Central Region: The Central Region includes provinces such as Henan, Hubei, and Hunan. It is characterized by a mix of industries, including manufacturing, agriculture, and services. The Central Region contributes roughly 15–20% to China’s GDP. Northeastern Region: The Northeastern Region consists of provinces like Liaoning, Jilin, and Heilongjiang. Historically, this region was a vital industrial base for heavy machinery, mining, and manufacturing. However, it has faced economic challenges in recent years. The Northeastern Region contributes approximately 7–10% to China’s GDP. Pearl River Delta: The Pearl River Delta is a highly urbanized and economically dynamic region located in Guangdong Province. It encompasses cities like Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Dongguan. Known as a manufacturing and export hub, it has played a pivotal role in China’s economic growth. The Pearl River Delta contributes around 10–15% to China’s GDP. Yangtze River Delta: The Yangtze River Delta region covers Shanghai and the surrounding provinces of Jiangsu and Zhejiang. It is one of the most economically developed and prosperous regions in China. With a strong focus on finance, manufacturing, and services, the Yangtze River Delta contributes approximately 20–25% to China’s GDP. China’s Latest Economic Updates
Stock Market
The Shanghai Composite rose from 2892 in November 2022 to 3284 (as of May 17, 2023).
Currency
Yuan rose from 6.7 in Jan 2023 to 7.0 as of May 17, 2023
Employment
In March 2023, China’s surveyed urban unemployment rate decreased to 5.3%, the lowest in seven months, from February’s 5.6%. Those aged 25–59 saw their jobless rate drop to 4.3% from 4.8% in February, while those aged 16–24 increased to 19.6% from 18.1%. The unemployment rate in 31 large cities and towns also declined to 5.5% from 5.7%.
Employees’ average weekly working hours across China increased to 48.7 in March from 47.9 in February. In the first quarter of 2023, the unemployment rate slightly declined to 5.5% from 5.6% in Q4 2022. The government has set a target of around 5.5% for the year, with the creation of approximately 12 million new urban jobs. China has also set a 2023 GDP growth target of about 5%.
GDP
China’s economy grew by 2.2% (SA) in Q1–2023, the third consecutive quarter of expansion following the removal of travel restrictions in Dec-2022 and a three-year crackdown on tech firms and property. However, the uneven recovery showed that while consumption, services, and infrastructure spending picked up, slowing inflation and rising bank savings led to doubts about demand.
In Mar-2023, the central bank cut lenders’ reserve requirements for the first time in 2023 and Beijing promised more fiscal stimulus.
Inflation
In April of 2023, China’s inflation rate declined to 0.1% from the previous month’s 0.7%, which was lower than anticipated. The decrease in prices for both food and non-food items was due to an unstable economic recovery after the enclosure policy was lifted. Food prices fell notably due to lower prices of pork and fresh vegetables, while non-food prices fell due to lower prices for transportation and housing. Inflation for health remained steady, while education costs increased.
Trade
Country’s exports rose unexpectedly by 14.8% YoY to a high of USD 315.59B in March 2023, rebounding sharply from a 6.8% drop in January-February combined and beating market consensus of a 7% fall. It was the first advance in shipments since September 2022 as Beijing boosts trade with developed countries and emerging economies. Steel products (53.2%) and refined products (35.1%) were the largest contributors. Exports to China’s largest partner, ASEAN, rose 35.43%, while those to the EU (3.38%) and Russia (136.43%) also increased. Conversely, exports fell to Japan (-4.8%), Taiwan (-27.6%), and the US (-7.68%), while they expanded to Australia (23.7%) and South Korea (11.3%).
SVET Analysis Space (A-):
Advantages:
Strategic location: China is located in the heart of Asia, which gives it a strategic location to engage in trade and diplomacy with neighboring countries. China also has access to the Pacific Ocean, which allows it to trade with countries in the Americas and Oceania. Natural resources: China has significant reserves of coal, iron ore, and other minerals. The country is also the world’s largest producer of rare earth elements, which are essential in the manufacturing of high-tech products. This resource base has fueled China’s economic growth over the past few decades. Agricultural productivity: China has a large and fertile agricultural base, which allows it to produce significant amounts of food. The country is the world’s largest producer of rice and wheat, and it has made significant advances in crop yields through the use of technology and modern farming practices. Disadvantages:
Natural disasters: China is prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, and typhoons, which can cause significant damage to infrastructure and disrupt the economy. Resource depletion: China’s rapid economic growth has led to the depletion of some of its natural resources, such as water and arable land. This depletion can lead to environmental degradation and food insecurity in the future. Energy dependence: Despite having significant reserves of coal, China is also heavily dependent on imported oil and gas to meet its energy needs. This dependence makes the country vulnerable to supply disruptions and price fluctuations on the global market. Voice (C):
Pluses:
Stability: The Chinese government prioritizes maintaining stability and order in the country, which has helped to ensure social cohesion and economic growth. Economic development: China’s political system has enabled it to pursue policies that have led to rapid economic growth and development over the past few decades. Nationalism: The Chinese government emphasizes the importance of national unity and pride, which has helped to foster a strong sense of identity among Chinese citizens. Strategic planning: The government’s focus on long-term planning has enabled China to achieve its ambitious economic and geopolitical goals. Minuses:
Lack of political freedom: The Chinese government tightly controls political expression and restricts freedom of speech, assembly, and association, which has led to criticism from human rights groups. State control: The government’s control over the economy and key industries can stifle innovation and limit the potential for private sector growth. Lack of transparency: The Chinese government is known for being opaque in its decision-making processes, which can lead to uncertainty for businesses and investors. Human rights violations: The government’s policies towards ethnic minorities, such as the Uighur population in Xinjiang, have been criticized by the international community for alleged human rights abuses. Ethos (B-):
Han Chinese: The Han Chinese are the largest ethnic group in China, accounting for over 90% of the population. They enjoy the most favorable treatment from the government and have access to the best jobs, education, and healthcare. However, this has led to some resentment from minority groups who feel marginalized. Ethnic minorities: There are 55 recognized ethnic minority groups in China, including Tibetans, Uighurs, Mongolians, and others. They often face discrimination and limited opportunities for advancement. Some minority groups, such as the Uighurs in Xinjiang, have also been subject to government repression. Rural residents: China’s rural population is around 40% of the total population. They often have limited access to education, healthcare, and job opportunities compared to urban residents. However, the government has implemented policies to try to bridge this gap, such as investing in rural infrastructure and offering subsidies to farmers. Urban residents: China’s urban population is growing rapidly and has access to more job opportunities, education, and healthcare than rural residents. However, this has also led to increased competition for resources and rising income inequality. Time (B-):
Positive scenarios:
Continued economic growth: China’s economy has been growing rapidly over the past few decades, and it is likely to continue. This could result in increased prosperity and an improved standard of living for many Chinese citizens. Technological advancement: China has made significant strides in technology and innovation, and this trend is likely to continue. This could result in China becoming a global leader in technology, creating new industries and high-paying jobs. Improved infrastructure: China has been investing heavily in infrastructure, such as high-speed rail and new airports, which can improve transportation and connectivity and stimulate economic growth. Increased global influence: As China’s economy and political influence continue to grow, it could become a dominant player on the global stage, shaping international politics and economics. Negative scenarios:
Environmental degradation: China’s rapid economic growth has resulted in severe environmental problems, such as air and water pollution. If this trend continues, it could have severe consequences for public health and the environment. Social inequality: China’s economic growth has also created significant social inequalities, with a wealthy urban elite and a poorer rural population. This could result in social unrest and instability. Political repression: The Chinese government’s increasing control over the media and the internet, and its crackdowns on dissent, could result in greater political repression. Economic slowdown: China’s economic growth has already slowed in recent years, and if this trend continues, it could result in job losses and economic instability, which could have global consequences. Overall
The Chinese reforms were initiated by Deng Xiaoping (1978–1992) in the late 1970s. These reforms aimed to open up China to foreign investment, encourage private enterprise, and modernize various sectors of the economy. As part of these reforms, the number of directly controlled industries was drastically reduced. Additionally, the number of price-controlled goods decreased from approximately 300 to around 20.
With that said, the government still exercises strict regulatory oversight and establishes guidelines and policies that private businesses must adhere to. State-owned enterprises (SOEs) continue to play a significant role in the Chinese economy and frequently receive preferential treatment and support from the government.
Those policies were continued under Jiang Zemin (1993–2003), during which China was accepted into the World Trade Organization (WTO) on December 11, 2001, and also under Hu Jintao (2003–2013). However, when Xi Jinping (2013-present) assumed power, there was a gradual shift towards increased direct control over the economy and the establishment of a more centralized system. This change was accompanied by the active implementation of mass-surveillance technologies.
That happened synchronously with the end of the world’s latest 80-year-long generational cycle, which began in the 1940s and 1950s. This cycle was characterized by massive political decentralization, resulting in the emergence of several dozen new states between 1940 and 2000. After the 2007–2008 debts debacle, this cycle of economic expansion, driven by the exploitation of readily available resources, came to a close. However, it was artificially extended for the next 15 years through the easing of monetary policies pursued simultaneously by central banks worldwide.
That led to an unprecedented growth of private businesses worldwide. It was accompanied by increased prosperity and a rising level of education across all segments of the population. Small and medium-sized entrepreneurs, particularly in the high-tech industry, began to assume leading positions in the economic landscape. However, this economic progress was not accompanied by significant political reforms.
The old class of hereditary, mostly populist politicians, who often lacked education, managed to stay in power throughout that period, largely due to the outdated electoral system based on indirect political representation. However, when blockchain technologies were utilized to establish algorithmic consensus and enable effective direct governance, this new system faced resistance from entrenched political clans in all countries, resulting in its suppression.
China is currently at the forefront of this trend, with its political class focused on leveraging high-tech advancements to achieve both economic efficiency and comprehensive political control. However, there are two significant obstacles that China faces along this path.
Firstly, China is confronted with a shrinking population. In recent years, the country has undergone a substantial demographic shift characterized by an aging population and a decline in the working-age population. This is partially attributed to the one-child policy that was enforced from 1979 to 2016, resulting in a diminished labor force and a growing proportion of elderly individuals.
Secondly, there is a culmination of the resource-exploration and expansionist phase of global economic growth, accompanied by escalating political and military tensions worldwide. This situation is likely to result in a reduction of China’s import markets and an increased dependence on a less-competitive domestic market. Consequently, this could potentially lead to a scenario of stagflation, characterized by stagnant economic growth coupled with high inflationary pressures.
Faced with these fundamental challenges, it is highly probable that China will resort to aggressive and militaristic policies in an attempt to expand its territory directly or enforce its economic dominance in the Asian region through alternative means.
China is expected to continue on its trajectory towards increased global dominance through local conflicts and enhanced technological control over the economy and population over the next 15–20 years. However, this trend could be altered by a new wave of decentralization, which would require a significant deviation from current policies.
Such a shift may occur when not only the current generation of older politicians, but also the subsequent one (which is likely to further reinforce the existing trend), is replaced by “enlightened” technocrats who advocate for a return to decentralized approaches in both politics and economics.

I’ve posted this as a comment for many in this sub but hopefully it’ll have wider reach on its own.
A common theme in this sub is the very bad advice people throw out of “just keep applying and forget it.” Why is it bad advice? Because it doesn’t address the underlying problem many applicants have and often don’t realize they have.
This isn’t a criticism of those posting that advice; rather I’m hoping people will learn before applying to everything and then complaining because “reasons.”
First thing I’d recommend is looking at your resume. If numerous applications led to not as many referrals or interviews you need to go back to the drawing board. You also have to realize you’re writing your resume for two distinct audiences which can be a challenge.
First look at the vacancy announcement and scroll to the qualifications section. You’ll see a piece about time in grade and specialized experience. If you’re new to government and applying to higher level positions (e.g. GS-11 and higher) keep in mind you’re competing against career federal employees who likely have an edge on you simply because they’re in the federal service already. It may be worthwhile looking at GS-9 or even playing it safe with GS-7. The important piece right now is getting your foot in the door, moving up from there generally isn’t difficult. One other thing to consider here is the “I made more in the private sector” is irrelevant as far as what you’d qualify for in government. Government jobs often pay much less than private sector counterparts (but make up for it in benefits and an annuity upon retirement). Just because you made $110k in the private sector and that’s what a GS-13 makes does not mean you’re GS-13 material. Read the vacancy announcement carefully. I can’t tell you how many people I know who pushed their experience to fit that higher pay grade only to lose their jobs because they were in way over their head. For comparison, the President makes $400k a year, significantly less than CEOs of major companies.
Okay back to the qualifications section. Look for a sentence saying something along the lines of “specialized experience is defined as…” In your resume you want to show how you have at least a year’s worth of experience doing whatever that section says. If you don’t, drop a grade and see if it helps. Another important point: do NOT copy/paste the duties from the announcement to your resume. A lot of recruitment specialists will immediately tag you as unqualified if they see that. Once you’ve shown your specialized experience you should make the HR gatekeepers happy. You’ll see more referrals this way.
Second audience is the hiring manager and this is where many people get stuck and rely on the “just keep applying for thousands of jobs and you’ll magically get hired” excuse. What does the hiring manager want to see? What YOU’VE done. What do most people put on their resumes? What their employer expects of them. In other words lots of “duties include…” and “responsible for…” bullets. I’ll tell you as a hiring manager that’s a great way to introduce your resume to the trash.
Two things to focus on here: (1) list accomplishments. What have you done on the job that makes you stand out? (2) include metrics as much as possible.
Let’s pretend you’re a hiring manager and you’re looking at three resumes but can only pick one candidate to talk to. You look for their strongest bullet points and see the following:
Candidate 1 (majority of applicants do this):
• Responsible for making widgets
Candidate 2 (some applicants will do this):
• Top widget maker on my team
Candidate 3 (rare to see):
• Produce an average of 300 widgets a month, 50% above the exceptional standard with a 100% quality rate.
Which candidate are you going to talk to? Once you have your pick, make your resume like theirs.
When it comes to interviews it can help to do a mock interview with a friend/family membecolleague. You’ll be able to see what you’re doing well and where you need to improve. You’ll be surprised to learn where you may think you did well but didn’t. And getting that feedback through practice means you’re not screwing yourself over in the real one.
You can also reach out to HR and ask for feedback when notified you’re not selected for a position. Many agencies have procedures in place where if the question is raised early enough (usually within a week of notification of non-selection) HR will reach out to the hiring manager to solicit feedback on where you did well and not so much.
Finally if you get a tentative offer don’t be “that guy” who feels entitled and has to email the staffing specialist every other day or every week for an update. You’re not the only candidate they’re onboarding and there are many moving pieces in the pre employment process (staffing, personnel security, HR, management, employee health, technical review, among many others). The staffing specialist is not privy to all those other sections and can’t prep/issue a formal offer until all those pieces come back completed favorably. In the interim they’re waiting just like you. And trust me when I say there are MANY checks on staffing to ensure employees are onboarded as soon as possible (including the fact that it’s written into their standards, meaning they’re evaluated on it every year). Don’t let the anxiety get to you and focus your attention elsewhere.
Best of luck with moving into or up in federal service.

"Get back to work."

Death

Created from the deepest void, the entity known as "Death" has existed since the dawn of time alongside his equals, Time and Life. His work in the universe started out as a small family business, reaping the souls of the living by his own bony hand over billions of years. But over time Death had grown weary and his scythe elbow had only gotten worse; that's when he had the brilliant idea to create the Sorrows, beings of death who would do the work for him, while he took his spot as CEO of Death Incorporated. Unfortunately, the Sorrows have begun to grow out of control and are more focused on reaping as many souls as possible, causing Death to literally become buried in paperwork. So it's time for Death to take up his loyal cloak, his magical Pitbook, and his trusty scythe once more so he can remind the Sorrows who's in charge and take down the mysterious being who seeks to use his Sorrows to depose him as CEO of Death Incorporated.

Direct Feats

Strength

• Can break through walls with his weapons or by dashing through them.
  
• Can swing weapons that are bigger and heavier than his own body
  
• Can shatter the head of Rocksters which are solid stone
  

Durability

• Can tank a nuclear ballistic missile
  
• Is completely unharmed from a blast that destroys the Modern Warfare Department which is big enough to have its own artificial sky
  

Speed

• Can dodge RPG shots
  
• Can dodge bullets from machine guns
  
• Can temporarily outrun a ballistic missile
  
• Can dodge lightning from a living storm cloud
  

Scaling Feats

• Defeated the Natural Disaster Department's Sorrow, Catherine Immamura, who can cause solar winds, floods, and cause meteors to rain down with just a snap of her fingers
  
• Defeated Time who is powerful enough to destroy a being capable of manipulating a quantic distortion, which is an alternate timeline, with a wave of his hand
  
• Defeated Life who was created from infinite energy
  

Weapons

Death may have started his career with nothing more than his basic scythe and a handful of magic spells. but over the years he's expanded his repertoire of deadly weapons. What's more, Death has a variety of different scythes (and some non scythes) to choose as his main weapon due to its transformation feature. Though Death has countless weapons at his disposal, we only see 71 in the game. Every weapon also has its own Frenzy attack which is a super powerful move that is charged up as Death deals damage.

The Scythe:

His trusty blade that can cut through space, time, and the elements. Death can summon his blade by holding out his hand as it flies towards him or he can simply have it teleport to him. Death can also stand in place to charge up his energy for a powerful charge attack

• The Diss Scythe: A variation of the basic scythe that allows Death to attack from further away.
  
• Twinsie: A variation of the basic scythe that prioritizes power over speed due to its second blade.
  
• Sickles: A pair of sickles that allow Death to attack at higher speeds in exchange for less range.
  
• Billhooks: A pair of blades that Death can throw at enemies before they return to his hands just like a boomerang
  
• Parasol 1.0: An enchanted parasol that can not only stab through foes with brutal efficiency but can also act as a shield/deflector.
  
• Seletine: Has slower attack speed but by slamming the mace end into the ground, Death can boost the power of his next attack.
  

The Cloak:

A sentient flying cloak that prefers to stay wrapped around Death's shoulders, the cloak not only lets Death turn invisible but can also transform into a variety of deadly weapons. It even protects him from the elements.

• Behammorth: A powerful hammer that's bigger than Death himself that hits hard in exchange for its slow attack speed.
  
• Brutumhammer: An upgrade of the Behammorth that lets Death slam it into the ground, launching stones all around him.
  
• Shake Spear: A long range spear that Death uses to attack foes with a three-pronged combo.
  
• Jabelin: A spear that Death uses to launch himself forward towards enemies, impaling anyone in his way.
  
• Sisword: A blade that Death uses to quickly jump in the air before diving at foes at lightning speeds.
  
• Drageanor: The sister to the Sisword, this blade allows Death to launch sharp projectiles with each swing.
  
• Slaymore: A giant sword that Death swings as he jumps in the air before slamming it down on the ground.
  
• Slaygore: Similar in size to the Slaymore, the Slaygore allows Death to slam the blade into the ground and send out an electrical shockwave. Can also be used to launch projectiles when swung mid air.
  
• Whirl Daggers: A pair of poisoned blades that Death uses to stab anyone nearby.
  
• Daggust: Death uses powerful gusts of wind to move back and forth in a flurry of sharp blades.
  
• Kaze-Kunai: Death throws out pairs of rapid-fire daggers (that are sharper than any metal on the surface) in a straight line. Death can summon an unlimited amount of these weapons.
  
• Arashi-Kunai: Death summons half a dozen daggers in front of him before launching them in a straight line. Death can summon an unlimited amount of these weapons.
  
• Ferral Fists: A pair of powerful arms that crush whoever is between its giant hands.
  
• Raparrier: A rapier that Death uses to brutally stab anyone in front of him. Should anyone wield this object then they will be consumed by an unstoppable rage until they stab someone with this blade. Death is immune to this effect.
  
• Dirty Dagger: A small dagger that, if stabbed in the back, injects you with a metallic substance that attacks your vital organs.
  
• Rocket Launcher: A rocket launcher that holds a malicious soul within, amplifying its power.
  
• Revelation Bow: A deadly bow and arrow shot with extreme efficiency. Death can summon an unlimited amount of arrows.
  
• Fire Bow: Similar to the Revelation Bow but with a slight homing effect on its arrows. Death can summon an unlimited amount of arrows.
  
• Death Star: A vicious looking morning star that Death had made after almost getting into a fight with a strange, cloaked, old man who kept bragging about his new "secret" space base while at a seminar.
  
• Murray of Crows: Death summons a murder of crows to surround him, damaging anything nearby.
  
• Vampire Battery: Death electrocutes himself and anyone nearby while also shooting out electrified bats at random. Death is not harmed by this.
  
• Beasteel: Death summons spider-like limbs from his back before jumping onto nearby enemies. Can also shoot out projectiles when used mid air.
  
• Excavor: Giant steel blades surge out of the ground around Death, impaling anyone nearby.
  

Pitbook:

A fireproof, floating, magical book that is filled with all kinds of magical spells that Death has learned over the years. It follows Death around like a loyal dog and if opened by anyone else other than Death, the only text visible will read: "WOOF! WOOFWOOOF! GRRR!"

Each of Death's spells consume a portion of his max mana reserves that automatically fills back up unless fully drained in which case it refills after a few seconds. While he starts the game with a low amount of mana that can be increased with items, this appears to be a gameplay mechanic as he is described as being able to increase his mana reserves at will and far beyond what the game will allow with the Focus spell.

• Fire Arrow: A simple fireball spell.
  
• Dark Talons: Summons a clawed hand from a creature named Charlie that grabs foes and pulls them closer to Death.
  
• Explosion: Causes an explosion.
  
• Poisoned Gift: Death throws two balls of venom made up of all the venoms of every snake found on the surface, poisons excreted from all the most lethal spiders who have ever existed, and a hint of wild mint for flavor.
  
• Boomerang Hex: Death shoots curved pure mana that then comes back around like a boomerang. Can launch more than one at a time.
  
• Myriad of Stars: Death summons a handful of miniature stars that then fly forward.
  
• Shockwave: Death releases an energy wave all around him.
  
• Spitfire: Pitbook shoots out a trail of fire on the ground.
  
• Poison Mist: A poison cloud of gas so powerful that it can poison a being made of pure toxic sludge. Can summon more than one cloud at a time.
  
• Boulderain: Summons boulders out of thin air and rain down on enemies.
  
• Mordicine: Death ingests a pill that hurts him in exchange for increased damage.
  
• Sacrifix: Death deals slight damage to himself over a period of a few seconds in exchange for two cups of Koffee (healing items)
  
• Vladislaw: Heals Death but reduces his maximum health with each use.
  
• Aleistar: A magical time bomb.
  
• Dark Claws: Summons Charlie's claws to rip and tear at foes.
  
• Bees: Death summons a pair regular bees that chase after foes. Can summon more than one pair at a time.
  
• Moskillto: A pair of magically enhanced mosquitos that chase after foes. Can summon more than one pair at a time.
  
• Star Raving Mad: Summons a meteor shower to rain down on foes.
  
• Skyfall: Lightning bolts rain down in front of Death.
  
• Makeshift Rockets: Death shoots a magical firework that explodes on impact.
  
• Piercing Ray: Death shoots out beams of light that home in on foes.
  
• Spiteful Chomper: Summons one of Charlie's mouths that crawl forward, chomping on anything in their path. Can summon more than one at a time.
  
• Starry Halo: Summons two stars that temporarily spin around Death, damaging anything that comes near. Can summon more than one pair at a time.
  
• Firescreamer: Pitbook shoots out a stream of fire in front of Death.
  
• Soul Razor: Opens a vortex that damages enemies within while enhancing Death's damage.
  
• Focus: Temporarily increases Death's mana regeneration speed while also temporarily increasing his max health and mana reserves.
  
• Voracious Burst: A spell that lowers Death's maximum health in return for summoning a spectral mouth in front of Death that heals Death equal to the 15% damage dealt.
  
• Ganglion X-4: Summons spiked balls that can bounce around for a few seconds before disappearing. Can summon more than one at a time.
  
• Frostbreeze: Shoots out a freezing gust of wind that also inflicts Frozen which slows down foes
  
• EyeSeeYou: Summons one of Charlie's eyeballs that acts as a turret, shooting projectiles at an enemy before disappearing after a few seconds. Can summon more than one at a time.
  
• Wishtorm: Shoots down golden bolts of lightning powered by wish magic that can destroy every layer of reality.
  
• Frostoxic: Causes a bunch of ice spikes to shoot out of the ground.
  
• Tempus Abjuratum: Traps foes in a bubble of stopped time.
  
• Sepulchral Ray: Fires a beam of damaging purple energy that inflicts the Arcane effect which deals additional damage after five layers of arcane are applied to a foe.
  
• Troublecross: Shoots two rays of energy that move in a crisscross formation.
  
• Wizzalch Barrage: Brings down several lightning bolts on the foe's head.
  
• Tornadmin: Launches a Mach 2 cyclone at foes that is full of sharp edged papers.
  
• Lyberis Skulls: Summons exploding skulls around Death, damaging foes.
  
• Nihilaser: The strongest laser in Death's arsenal, it can destroy all forms of existence in the universe when used correctly.
  
• Anvilaunch: Death uses telekinesis to rip out one ton's worth of metal from the ground and throws it at foes while it's in the shape of an anvil.
  
• Void Rift: Tears a hole in the fabric of reality above a foe's head as several of Charlie's fists come flying through, smashing anything beneath them.
  

Miscellaneous Powers

• Time Travel: Various weapon lore entries make mention of Death's ability to travel through time and space at will.
  
• Healing: Death can heal 15% of his total health with the use of bursts of life essence called Animas. Death can only hold three of them at a time.
  
• Resurrection: Death is never the end for this CEO and if his body should ever be destroyed then Death will reappear right back at his desk, ready to give it the old college try once again.
  
• Head Removal: Death can remove his head without issue.
  
• Damaging Non-Physical Beings: It's no surprise that Death can attack ghosts, but he's also capable of hurting and killing living fire, living water and living clouds as well
  
• Resistance To Time Manipulation: Time's own time stop attack can only hold Death for a few seconds
  
• Dashing makes him immune to damage, allowing him to dash through enemies and attacks
  
• Can float above the ground
  

Curses

Death can also gain various curses which (despite the name) amplify his stats, scythe, cloak, magic, or give him new abilities outright. As there are 243 curses available, I will only be including those that aren't reliant on gameplay mechanics and can be translated into lore (such as a curse that doubles defense) and will only include the best version of a curse (meaning that if there is a curse that triples Death's damage then I will not post a curse that only doubles his damage).

• And My Axe!: Every time Death uses a Cloak based weapon, an axe is launched from his cloak.
  
• Knave of Swords: Summons a small flying scythe that moves around Death.
  
• Praised Be The Bombcloak!: Every time Death uses a Cloak based weapon, a bomb is launched from his cloak.
  
• MC Scythe: Death can ignore pain while attacking.
  
• Astral Claws: Every few seconds, the foe (or a random foe if there is more than one) will be attacked by invisible claws.
  
• Soul Sucker: After taking damage, a percentage of any damage that Death deals in the next two seconds is gained as health.
  
• Tyrannical Boss: After taking damage, the next attack that Death lands deals 200% more damage
  
• Social Toxicity: All of Death's attacks inflict poison on foes.
  
• Burning Up: Death's attacks burns foes.
  
• Perish The Thought...: Death's attacks inflict Frozen on foes, slowing them down.
  
• Millanima Eye: Death gains two extra Anima slots.
  
• Burn-Out Channeling: Being damaged increases the Frenzy gauge.
  
• A Spoonful Of Suger: Every attack has a 10% chance of freezing an enemy in time. Both this curse and Tempus Abjuratum are strong enough to work on Time himself.
  
• Anima Lambic: Consuming an Anima grants Death temporary regeneration.
  
• Eye For An Eye: Being damaged grants Death temporary regeneration.
  
• Tooth For A Tooth: Being damaged grants Death a 30% chance of gaining an Anima.
  
• Straw Helm: Doubles Death's defense.
  
• Animoolah: Golden Animas fully heal Death.
  
• Corvus Nefas: Being damaged launches crows towards the nearest foe.
  
• Flash Of Brilliance: Every attack causes the target to be struck by lightning.
  
• Conflagrations: Using a spell causes explosions to appear around Death.
  
• Iranima: Using an Anima fills up Death's Frenzy bar by 50%.
  
• Crow Cover: Using a spell launches crows towards the nearest foe.
  
• Imminent Burnout: The Cloak periodically launches crows towards the nearest foe.
  
• Social Security: Death is invincible for one second after taking damage.
  
• Imminent Reverie: Death periodically creates another Anima.
  
• Zeus's Wrath: Being damaged causes the foe to be struck by lightning.
  
• Static Electricity: Using a Cloak based weapon causes the nearest foe to be struck by lightning.
  
• Stroke of Luck: Death will survive a fatal attack as long as he's not one hit away from death. This effect will continue as long as this is the case.
  

Now that as an employee you know everything there is to know about the CEO himself it is high time that you got to work filtering souls for the great beyond. So swallow your feelings and put on a smile because the first day of the end of your life begins...now.
Welcome To The Afterlife

SUMMARY

When analysing the new federal budget, there seems to be a nearly universal agreement on the politics that shaped the spending plan. Namely, this budget is big on spending, big on corporate tax reform. Having previously relied on the New Democratic Party to maintain an absolute majority, the Trudeau Government has opted for appeasing their parljlnenatry partners, aiming to buy more time for the this government before the next general election has to be called.
Politically, the Budget can be divided into there main lines. Namely, the Liberals trying to follow through with their promises from the last Federal Election, such as introducing the Canada Disability Benefit, a brand-new advanced research agency, as well as over-delivering on expanded supports for lower-income workers. Economically, introducing a tax-free CDB combined with noticeably more generous and broadly available Canada Workers Benefit also aims to boost Canada's labour force participation, to partially offset traditionally low per capital productivity of Canadian workers.
Then, the issue of the supply and confidence agreement with New Democrats comes into play, finally implementing a national dental care plan being finally brought into the budget, followed by a national prescription drug insurance scheme.
As on the greatest surprises comes in the form of what the Government framed as a "business assistance review" and corporate reform, that is set to be a structural response to US's Inflation Reduction Act, namely by brining programmes as IRAP to a one-stop shop, under an arm-length agency outside of the federal industrial strategy ministry. The Government is also following Europe's lead on development Canadian equity markets, that while incremental, may be a first step to less debt-dependent corporate Canada, while nurturing Canadian innovation, since tech companies tend to be much more reliant on equity financing, rather than traditional bank lending.
Politically, the Liberals continue to emphasise fiscal prudence of the budget, citing stable debt-to-GDP ratios, as well as the fact the budget actually contains a structural surplus, when excusing debt service payments from federal expenditure. Ottawa is also trying to hedge against future attacks when it comes to public subsidies, through introducing an independent oversight body, as well as providing full operational autonomy to a new umbrella organisation, to operate business investment programmes and other agencies.
Notably, however, the Liberals seem to be willing to further undermine their reputation as credible fiscal managers, rather the cause a new election by breaking their agreement with NDP, as the LPC continues to struggle in federal polling.

Strengthening Canada's Safety Net

Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) is set to be radically boosted, aiming to boost labour force participation while easing inflationary pressures for the most vulnerable workers. The budget drastically expands both the generosity and eligibility for the CWB by lowering the income threshold from $3000 of annual earnings to just $1, including income from self-employment. The Government of Canada also expands eligibility for the benefit, by more closely aligning it with Québec's Solidarity Tax Credit, making full- and part-time students eligible to claim CWB. The benefit is also enhanced through expansion of both the maximum amount payable and the introduction of a benefit floor - $3000 per annum for the floor and up to $4000 for maximum benefit - per family.
Additionally, the Canada Revenue Agency - as well as Revenu Québec, following a short negotiation with the province - are now required to administer both the CWB and the STC in real time, delivering automatic bi-weekly payments to all eligible individuals, so long they've filled their tax return for the previous year. Ottawa is also set to strengthen the programme by introducing the so-called "benefit shield provision" that protects benefit recipients from prohibiting benefit clawbacks in their income increases unexpectedly. Thus, annual CWB entitlement is set to be calculated on the basis on average reported earnings in the last 5 years, paid every 2 weeks. Sudden increases in incomes shall also be excused from the current year's calculation of benefit amounts, applied evenly over the next 5-year calculation period.

Same policy is set to be applied to all other federal benefits and credits, including the Canada Child Benefit - an income-based subsidy for parents - as well as the GST/HST Tax Credit, and the Climate Action Incentive Payment - a rebate paid to households to compensate for the cost of federal price on carbon where one applies.

As an interim measure, Ottawa is also set to introduced the "marginal earnings shield" policy that allows the Canada Revenue Agency to issue bi-weekly CWB payments to individuals facing prohibitively high marginal rates of personal taxation, whenever the effective rate exceeds 45 per cent. This includes benefit clawbacks from provincial programmes, as well as increased payroll deductions, such as Employment Insurance Premiums, Canada/Québec Pension Plan Contributions, as well as income tax, union dues, or any other payroll deduction from the CRA or Revenu Quebec. Notably, the earnings shield only applied to income bellow the median AFNI for the given province or territory.
Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) is to beintroduced to supplement provincial social assistance measures for people with special needs. CDB aims to top-up existing provincial disability support programmes, providing simultaneous supplementation of payment to eligible individuals. The benefit is set to be fully aligned with provincial requirements, but also provide equivalent support to those receiving provincial Workers' Compensation Payments, and CPP/QPP Disability benefits, to bring disable Canadians closer to the national poverty thresholds, with CDB maximum capped at $1000 monthly - that is however subject to inflation indexing.

Expanding Canada's Healthcare

Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) previously announced in the last year's budget is finally being rolled out across the country, following almost a year of bilateral talks with the provinces and territories. The Plan remains open to anyone with a communed household income of bellow $120.000 as well as those without an insurance plan that provides free-at-use dental coverage. In case their income exceeds the eligibility threshold, they'd have to pay an increased premium collected by the CRA as a payroll deduction. Anyone is also free to obtain private dental care insurance, so long they don't have a public one, so long it provides continuous coverage, a fully covers all services provided within a medical facility.
However, even those with private insurance will still have to face the limitations of the Canada Health Act, namely being barred from any preferential treatment for services covered under the CDCP. To further maintain its universality, the Canada Health Act is amended to require every Canadian resident to maintain a valid dental care insurance coverage at all times, with on obligation on both Ottawa and the Provinces to provide access to that coverage to everyone. Private insurance is still allowed, so long it remains equivalent to the public plan, unless covering supplementary services. The respective assessment of a private plan's equivalence and universal coverage is carried out by Heath Canada, through referring the data that every employer is oblige dot provide, linked to each individual's Social Insurance Number.
Notably, the CDCP is administered - as promised - by a neutral agency, comprised of representatives from Health Canada and provincial, as well as territorial heads of ministries of health -- the Canadian Dental Benefit Administrators (CDBA). CDBA is in turn operates under a two-track system, where the CDCP Council within the CDBA, comprised of provincial representation, and Health Canada, sets up broader general standards of care, coverage, and premiums, while CDBA provincial offices administer the plan within the framework of general provincial health plans. Principal batches of CDBA are free to diverge from national guidelines on coverage and pricing, so long it doesn't change increase expenditure, and preserves free-at-use coverage without significant reduction in quality of care measured in waiting times or increased pressure on the staff, lower efficacy rates.
Funding through the plan altho provided through general taxation, is calculated as a flat income-based insurance premiums, deducted from CDCP's recipient paycheque as part of their Income Tax, with additional levies for those making above the eligibility threshold and choosing to enrol into the Plan. While co-pays are absent for lower income earners completely, everyone enrolled into the Plan is protected an annual limit for out-of-pocket dental care expenditures, capping spending as a share of one's income, that is also revised annually, in line with instigated payroll premiums.
Canadian Pharmaceutical Insurance Plan (CPIP) finally brings a long-awaited universal Pharmacare to Canada, especially territories and provinces other than Quebec. While previously Canada's public health insurance plans would only cover in-hospital medical services, leaving prescription drugs largely to the private market, CPIP is set to change that. The Plan provides compressive coverage for multiple prescription drugs defined in a "national formulary" administrated by the Canada Drug Agency at no cost to every member of the plan, that is tasked with evaluating and authorising the use of new pharmaceuticals to be sold in Canada.
However, CPIP's administration, namely negotiating prices for prescription drugs, is delegated to the Pan-Canadian Pharmaceutical Alliance (pCPA). Originally created as a strictly provincial initiative to join forcing in procuring pharmaceuticals for public drug plans, pCPA is set to be drastically expanded to negotiate prices for prescriptions on behalf of Canada as a whole. Thus, no drug that is deemed by the CDA or Health Canada to require a prescription can be sold, until a procurement deal has been reached with the pCPA.
When conducting negotiations, pCPA largely relies on already existing framework, with the Canada Drug Agency carrying out impact assessment and drug reviews -- a function previously reserved exclusively to Health Canada. pCPA retains it current institutional design, transitioning to completely independent organisation, only contained by appointments from federal, provincial, and territorial governments, with the final procurement deal requiring consent of Health Canada, CDA, federal and provincial ministries of health.

Trying to resist further increases in drug expenditure, pCPA is authorised to conduct joint funding with the Canada Drug Agency for new drugs, especially biologics and generic medications. Most significantly, however, is the "cost-benefit analysis" framework approach when negotiating drug prices or operating joint investment ventures. The assent is mainly focused on estimating long-term savings to the overall healthcare system, as well as possible impact of patients' ability to re-join the labour force. Thus, procurement expenditures are effetely weighted over long-term savings in the healthcare sector as well as future increase in premiums.

For its end the Government of Canada is set absorb absorb initial cost of running both Pharamacare and the national dental care, while avoiding reductions to federal healthcare transfers, with further increases managed through the Canada Health Transfer and bilateral negotiations with the privies. To avoid further deterioration of Canada's long-term fiscal position Ottawa is offsetting increased spending through phasing out all employer tax credits for health expenditures, as well as tightening eligibility for individual medical tax credits, while closing the readings gap through the CDCP and CPIP payroll premiums.

Canada's Quiet Corporate Reform

Canadian Equity & Debt Recovery Allowance (CEDRA) is set to largely emulate European proposals for the Debt-Equity Bias Reduction Allowance (DEBRA)733678) to align tax treatment for equity and debit across the tax system. CEDRA provides for a limited deduction of costs associated with issuing new corporate equity, namely stocks and bonds on Canadian stock exchanges.

The allowance is calculated using the year-on-year difference between total corporate equity multiplied by risk-free return on equity, equal to the rate for 10-year Government of Canada bonds. Notably, the deception is fully refundable, up to a maximum for any given year and can be carried forward indefinitely.

Just like its European equivalent, CEDRA provides for higher risk-free rate of return for smaller companies, as opposed to larger players. Higher rate is set to be the sum of the basic rate or return and the spread between interest rates for smaller and large businesses, calculated every year - CEDRA SMEs. However, unlike DEBRA, the Canadian allowance also provides for even more generous allowance for newer companies, regardless of their size, that is directly proportion to the rate spread between for companies operating for as long as or less 5 years, as opposed to existing incumbents, put on top of the 10-year federal government bonds rate - CEDRA Trailblazers.
b Notably, companies that qualify for both small and new entry rate deductions are allowed to combined both when calculating their entitlement for any given year.
The Government of Canada also brings a "green spin" the to the deduction, with a designated rate calculation for green businesses - CEDRA Net Zero. Thus, the gap in interest rates for low- and zero-emission borrowed and fossil fuel companies is set be compounded with the federal 10-year bonds, and then multiplied by the new year-on-year equity increase. Companies are also allowed to combine the "green rate" deduction with the new entry and small company rates so long the applicant is eligible for each of those individually. Companies operating in mining and processing of critical minerals, battery production, as well production of clean energy equipment and more energy-intensive solutions, including software.
CEDRA provides for special treatment of losses, including those cause by sudden dips in stock prices as a result of monetary tightening or short-selling. While falling short of full refundability, the Government of Canada allows to use deductible equity losses to offset both income and payroll taxes, as well as GST/HST payable for any given year, including carry-back provisions of up to 1 year.
As an additional measure, Canada is limiting debt interest deductibility for all companies operating in the country. Just like DEBRA, the Canadian allowance caps deductibility of net-interest debt payments - interest spent minus interest received - at the level of 85 per cent, with a maximum of $4 million. In line with European proposals, interest deductibility is additionally limited at 30 per cent of the borrower's earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation. Companies would only be able to deduct the lowest amount in a tax year, but would be able to carry the difference forward or back, without indexing to inflation.
As an additional measure, the Budget also reforms the deferral dividend tax credit, including the one for Canadian-Controlled Private Corporations. Now, DTC is available to claim for any dividend payments received from a company incorporated in Canada, that has been operational for 5 years or less - DTC Trailblazers - or is actively contributing to the the green economy - DTC Net Zero, including mining and processing of critical minerals, battery production, as well as manufacturing of zero-emission vehicles, suitable materials and clean energy machinery & equipment.
Capital Cost Allowance Green Deduction - allows for full expensing of both machinery & equipment as well business property, for M&E for companies in "green industries", as well as investing in greater energy efficiency of existing industrial structures and equipment, including the cost of full replacement for everyone else. The increased rate also applies to non-mining - with accelerated appreciation maintained for critical minerals - companies of up to 5 years of age.

Canada's New Net Zero Industrial Policy

Investment & Innovation Canada aims to bering several federal crown corporations and business assistance programmes under one roof, operating as a one-stop shop for Canadian businesses. Notably, all entities brought under IIC have their mandrel explicitly promoting competition, namely considering either new market participants or SMEs first, for their investment considerations. Additionally, all participating agencies are set to aim at fulfilling Canada's Net Zero commitment, thrust greater coordination and a more cohesive instrument mix. The agency also aims to provide end-to-end support for Canadian companies across the board, including both setting up, and the scaling up new and existing players, aiming to promote competitive export-oriented companies in critical industries.
Additionally, Investment & Innovation Canada introduces significant restructuring business assistance and subsidy institutions themselves. This mainly involves putting maximum emphasis on the "place economy" aiming to decentralise every member institution to the greater possible extent, tailoring their operations to the needs of a local markets. To avoid further confusion, IIC focuses on setting up highly autonomous local branches, to be combined in one-stop-shop for local businesses, by merging the their branches with Canada's Regional Development Agencies, and providing them with full operational autonomy, including agencies that were previously managed directly by the Government of Canada.
IIC is set to coordinate and facilitate operations between following crown corporations:
Business Development Canada (BDC) - a crown corporation tasked with providing capital for Canadian small & medium sized companies, including lending directly to investors to allocate capital to promising companies. Notably, BDC has the scope of their mandate extended, being allowed to provide direct funding to promising companies, as well as new entrants in highly concentrated markets, such as telecommunications, transportation, and banking. Just like EDC, Business Development Canada prioritises support to export-oriented companies.
Export Development Canada (EDC) provides a wide range of export support services and financing, such as risk insurance and direct business guidance, as well access to adorable capital to conduct export operations outside of Canada. Notably, however, under its renewed mandate, EDC is set to also encourage intraprovinical exports to an extent comparable with the support provided to those seeking to enter foreign markets. Equally, EDC has their competences extended to also facilitate overall trade-intensity of Canadian industries, including through increased exposure to imports, both between the provinces and foreign markets. While previously focusing exclusively on promoting overseas sales, the bank of set to roll out equal access to its services to those willing to export into Canada, especially when it comes to components, unfinished products, and intangibles.
Canadian Infrastructure Development Corporation (CIDC) is set to bring together the Canada Infrastructure Bank, the housing accelerator and developments funds, and other related projects, facilitating the supply of funding to national and local infrastructure projects, including affordable housing and public transit, signifying the first time housing is being considered part of Canada's infrastructure. CIDC also brings the Canada Housing & Mortgage Corporation to the table, as an independent body within the CIDC, largely focused on monitoring the market and providing independent impact assessment. Notably, CIDC is set to be allowed to fund projects that are yet to obtain private commitment, giving a first move advantage, so long the project has received an approved for respective regulatory authorities and indigenous groups affected, or if a project aims at reducing carbon emissions.
Labour Development Canada (LDC) is focused on creating more coherent space for federal labour market policy and workforce development, being tasked with development and screening of both businesses and applications in need additional training, as well as matching businesses struggling to recruit with those seeking a job. LDC is also responsible for administrating the Canadian Job Bank, as well as developing the curriculum and training standards for designated sectors. Notably, the Bank also being grated an explicit rights to enter into commercial agreements with provinces, municipalities, and legal entities providing funding for the private sector to re- and up-skill the local workforce, as well as integrate as many people as possible into the labour market.
As its unique feature, each LDC branch is legally required to maintain employee and business representation, with the need for unanimous consent when developing and implementing new measures. Notably, this includes local unions, business associations, and advocacy organisations in the region.
Initial funding the bank is set to be maintained under the Labour Market Development Agreements as well Workforce Development Agreements between Ottawa and the provinces, however the LDC is expected run a "structural surplus" for its existing programmes through employee and employer payroll deductions negotiated under each programme respectively. Therefore only using discretionary federal and provincial spending when operating federal or provincial programmes and launching new initiatives.
Labour Development Canada is also allowed to compete directly with employment agencies and directly administer federal programmes such as the Canada Summer Jobs, while pursuing it mandate: to maximise labour force participation and increase Canada's labour productivity, while increasing access to suitable permanent jobs above the federal poverty line.
Advanced Research & Innovation Canada (ARIC) provides all-in-support for research and development projects aiming at achieving a Net Zero Economy. ARIC brings together the Canadian Foundation for Innovation, and the National Research Council, and the Canada Research Chambers and Canada Growth Fund itself to provide end-to-end support for new green technology. While the Canada Foundation for Innovation provides funding for university research, the Canada Research Chairs brings the human expertise to ARIC, with the National Research Council supporting industrial and company-based business R&D. The Canada Growth Fund, on the other hand aims to provide funding for scale-ups in the green space and innovative sectors, mainly through comprehensive risk sharing and direct lending to existing projects. Unlike other agencies, CGF also has an explicit mandate to support funding for Net Zero and facilitate the acquisition of intellectual property by Canadian enterprises as well as support the creation of new IP by Canadians and in Canada. However, CGF is also being allowed to directly fund industrial research and development to expand accessibility of existing green technology, even where private sector funding has not yet been committed.
Aerospace Development Canada (ADC) delivers direct funding, for R&D and skills in the aerospace sector, as well as providing assistance with training, talent attraction, retention, and initial funding for the aerospace industry. ADC is allowed to also directly fund university research and eduction for those working in the aerospace industry.
Automation & Robotics Canada (ARC) focuses on supporting wider use of automaton and robotics across the Canadian economy. ARC specifically allows companies to obtain a rebate for their M&E expenses, as well as receive a loan or a grant to modernise existing equipment, or replace, expand existing industrial assets. SMEs can recuperate up to 110 per cent of their M&E expenses with ARC, and over 125 per cent when it comes to automating their processes and installing newer software. Notably, ARC is set to operate in parallel with the Canada Digital Adoption Program.
Agri-Foods Canada (AFC) administers programs when it comes to agricultural and foods production, focusing on providing funding for agricultural research, and development of new products, chemicals, processing methods, and crops that utilise that are more environmentally suitable.
While major business assistance programmes remain within the realm of the federal ISED, IIC is allowed to administer those directly and change their structure, so long associate costs are borne by the IIC institutions themselves. Programmes immediately transferred under the responsibility of IIC include the Canada Digital Adoption Program (CDAP), the Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP). Notably, however, IIC uses several other finical instruments to carry out its mandate:

• Income-Contingent Grants - grants funded directly by the CIB, with a subsequent return of funds. Unlike standard loans, ISGs are paid by the borrower as a share of their future income, until the debt is fully repaid - or written off by mutual agreement of both parties.
• Investment Supplementary Funding - provides financing provided by an IIC institution in proportion to investments from the private sector. Thus, for every $2 of private investment in a particular project or company, ISF guarantees at least $1 of investment from the CIB, subject to an appropriate agreement with the recipient company.
• Comprehensive Liabilities Guarantee - allow IIC to insure the assets of external investors - and the company itself - in a specific project or company in exchange for risk premiums from potential recipients. So, if the project will lead to losses for investors, IIC will return the funds spent.
• Outcome-Oriented Financing is the broadest possible definition of bank financial guarantees, which are fulfilled when certain conditions are met by the recipient. OOF may involve the direct financing, creation, write-off or investment, deferment, freezing - and so on - of the financial obligations of the borrower, in exchange for the achievement of certain indicators. First of all, we are talking about achieving predetermined growth rates of productivity - both labor and multifactorial - or such indicators as reducing the levels of debt burden, higher capital and science intensity, as well as interaction with external markets.
• Bridging Finance - bridge financing provided either in crisis situations or at an early stage of the project, when existing agreements with investors already exist, it is not possible to access short-term financing or funds necessary for the implementation of the initial stage of the project.
• Pooled Securitisation - financing of joint projects carried out by several small companies at once, with the accompanying distribution of risks. PS also covers the placement of assets on public markets.

Following the re-structuring the Government of Canada also expands funding for the Competition Bureau, and the Competition & Markets Commission of Canada. Namely, both are receiving additional functions, of overseeing the federal business assistance regime through the Canadian Business Assistance Office (CBAO) -- an independent standalone parliamentary institution. CBAO is tasked with evaluating the performance of business assistance programmes and institutions, including IIC and its member bodies, as well as any business investment made by the Government of Canada, though annual programme reviews and recommendations. Notably, the Office can order the Competition Bureau and the CMCC to investigate specific cases, as well as conduct joined programme reviews.

As on overriding set of criteria, the Office is set to evaluate how existing government programmes measure against increasing competition in a marketplace - being required to prioritise companies of 5 years of younger, as well as SMES - and foster finically independent enterprise - defined a profitability over the 5 year period excusing government assistance -, as well as help to achieve the Net Zero goal.

The Office is set to also maidan regional representation, aimed at scrutinising Regional Development Agencies, each branched aimed at a respective RDA, with a representative from CBAO and a respective provincial or territorial legislative assembly.
To further strengthen the accountability regime, the Budget amends respective acts relating to the Business Development Canada, Export Development Canada, National Research Council, Regional Development Agencies, and the Canada Infrastructure Development Canada's constituent units, as well as an additional overarching mandate for the Investment & Innovation Canada.
Thus, all the parties affected now have to comply with a "dual" mandate oversseen by the CBAO. Apart from fulfilling their original duty, such as infrastructure development, export promotion, or investment in green tech, all the agencies ought to remain finically profitable indecent of public support, defined all persistent surplus over the 5-year horizon.
In turn, the agencies are allowed to earn income through repayable grants, equity stakes, as well as acquisition of assets, such as intellectual property, and issuance of Canada Development & Innovation Bonds. CDIBs are set to be equated to the Government of Canada bills, with Ottawa directly guaranteeing the ability of an issuer to service their debts. Notably, each issuance has to be authorised by the IIC, before a respective institution can act on its own.

Additional Readings

https://taxpolicy.crawford.anu.edu.au/sites/default/files/publication/taxstudies_crawford_anu_edu_au/2022-03/complete_ace_wp_2022.pdf
https://mowatcentre.munkschool.utoronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/publications/88_corporate_tax_reform.pdf
https://taxfoundation.org/benefits-of-full-immediate-expensing/
https://irpp.org/research-studies/cracking-canadas-productivity-conundrum/
https://irpp.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Facing-the-Facts-Reconsidering-Business-Innovation-Policy-in-Canada.pdf
https://politics.utoronto.ca/publication/innovation-in-real-places-strategies-for-prosperity-in-an-unforgiving-world/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6246044/
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/case-national-investment-authority-henry-kopesky
https://maytree.com/wp-content/uploads/canada-working-age-supplement-report.pdf
https://capx.co/subsidies-are-no-way-to-support-business-but-there-is-a-better-alternative/
https://www.politico.com/news/2023/03/29/canada-u-s-clean-energy-ira-00089284
https://civitas.org.uk/pdf/SavingsBanks2010.pdf
https://maytree.com/wp-content/uploads/canada-working-age-supplement-report.pdf
https://www.economist.com/finance-and-economics/2022/01/22/why-the-bias-for-debt-over-equity-is-hard-to-dislodge

Hi All,
Throwaway account for privacy reasons. I wanted to share my financial situation and get collective thoughts about what I can do better, especially regarding saving for retirement. My main concern is that my current job is working for a small business - I am a W2 employee making about 85k per year in the IT industry. At this time there is no retirement match, 401k, etc, but we are looking into it for next year or the year after as long as the financials support it. The good news is I worked full time since I was 17, and have been doing 15-20% 401K matches. Since late last year, I have not contributed to retirement savings at all, and the accounts are unable to be currently invested in. This is my major concern and the reason behind this post. I'm not the best at budgeting but try and live within my means
Here's what I'm working with:
28, I live in Denver, CO, US. (so HCOL)

• 85K per year salary including health benefits. We can say 5k / mo take home to keep things easy.
• 401a retirement from previous employer: 77k balance.
• 401k retirement from previous employer: 36k balance.
• Roth IRA from previous employer: 16k balance
• Main checking/savings has about 3-4k in it split evenly. Once I hit 2k in savings it gets moved over to HYS.
• HYS: 7,500 at 3.9% APR
• HYS for home repairs: 3,000 at 3.5% APR.
• $0 in credit card debt.
• Own a 5 year old motorcycle free and clear. Worth about $8000 on a bad day.

Liabilities:

• I bought a SFH in 2019 that I still occupy. I owe about 310k at 2.89%, home value is conservatively 530k. Mortgage is just under $1900 /mo after taxes and insurance is paid for via escrow. I pay extra towards principal at $2150/mo. (so $250 over the minimum payment) I have a roommate which helps subsidize some of this cost at $750/mo.
• I have a three year old Tesla I still owe about 8k on at 2.99%. Payments are $433/mo. I have been paying $650/mo with the extra going towards principal. Vehicles are one of my hobbies and this is one case I splurged a little against advice I see given here. In my defense I plan on keeping the car at least until the battery and motor warranty is up in late 2028. I bought it used for about 15k cheaper than MSRP due to the original owner needing to get out of the loan ASAP due to job loss. If I keep doing what I am doing it will be paid off by January or February 2025.
• Amex personal loan. $3,500 left at 1.99%. Payments are $96/mo. I have been paying $150. I originally had about 5.5k in credit card debt but I decided to take out the personal loan because there was about $100 in fees plus the low interest rate. Payoff date not including the extra I have been paying is 8/2026. This has been a reminder / punishment about how to responsibly use credit cards.
• I have a solar loan with 13 years left at 1% interest (green energy loan from CU). There's 15k owed and payments are $130/mo. I usually have no electric bill because of this including the energy use of my car. Per KWH cost is about 1/3-1/2 of the going utility rate when you factor in annual production / annual cost. No early payoff penalty.
• Water / Natural gas / cell phone / internet $250 / mo
• Car insurance is $140/mo. Motorcycle is $400/yr.
• About $400 combined / mo for groceries & eating out.
• I save $200/mo in a separate HYS for home repairs. The home is 70 years old and although the furnace, A/C, roof, and electrical are about five years old it's anyone's guess what could go wrong.

TL:DR: Money in: $5,750
Expenses: About $3,900/mo including everything listed above, inclusive of loans being paid more than the minimum payment. All listed costs are rounded up from their actual amount for ease of calculations so there is some wiggle room in my favor.
Remaining: $1650/mo.The remaining is usually split between two transfers to savings every month. Previously, I was putting $1200/mo into employer sponsored 401k but that is no longer occurring, hence the original reason for this post.
My main question: I already have a somewhat decent stash in my retirement. Is it a bad idea to skip a year or so of further contributions?
How do you feel about my other month to month expenses? Does it make sense for me to be paying extra on the listed loans even if they are at a low percentage rate? Should I stop some or all between the extra on my mortgage, car, amex and save more money? I don't like the idea of having outstanding loans which is why I have been trying to expedite their payoff. My plan is to hopefully have the car paid off in 16 months, the amex loan roughly about the same time, then I am not sure what to do. I don't think it makes sense to start paying extra on the solar at 1%.
What should I be doing with the remaining $1650 a month? Is there a good option for a self-funded retirement account? I am not really well versed in this so for now it has all been eventually making its way to the HYS account. I originally had more cash saved but I put 30k down on the car and have been trying to build that back up.
Thanks for reading my wall of text and any input you may have. I really appreciate being able to ask this as it's hard to talk financials and get insights from others in person or though freind groups. Thanks again!

My employer is switching benefit providers, which is fine. Whatever. Don’t care. BUT we’re no longer covered by the current provider as of June 1st…. And the employer hasn’t provided any info to access the new provider yet. Are employers that offer benefits (as per collective agreement) allowed to let a lapse happen? It seems a little irresponsible… what if an employee needs to fill a prescription and can’t afford the medication without coverage? (Asking from Ottawa Ontario)
Ps I reviewed the collective agreement and this is all I could find relating to benefits:
(b) The Employer agrees to pay one hundred percent (100%) of the premium rate for all employees who regularly work thirty (30) hours or more a week for the following coverage: (iv) Extended Health Care Drug Plan Vision Care Dental Care The Employer shall provide to each employee a copy of the current information booklets for those benefits provided under this Article. The Union shall be provided with a current copy of the Master Policy. It is clearly understood that the Employer's obligation pursuant to this Collective Agreement is to pay the amount of premiums contracted for. Any issues with respect to the insurer acknowledging or honouring any claims are matters as between the employee and the Insurer. The Employer reserves the right to change plans and/or carriers at its discretion and will notify the Union if it intends to change the insurance carrier.

Private health insurance offers numerous advantages that can provide individuals with greater flexibility and control over their healthcare coverage. While it's important to note that the suitability of private insurance depends on personal circumstances, here are a few advantages to consider:

1. More Choices: Private health insurance allows for a wider range of coverage options, empowering individuals to select plans that align with their specific needs and preferences.
2. Access to Top-tier Providers: With private insurance, individuals often gain access to renowned hospitals and specialists, ensuring they receive high-quality care from trusted healthcare professionals.
3. Shorter Wait Times: Private health insurance can often lead to shorter wait times for appointments, tests, and procedures, enabling individuals to receive timely care when they need it most.
4. Additional Coverage Options: Private insurance plans may offer coverage for services not typically covered by other types of insurance, such as alternative therapies, elective procedures, or fertility treatments.
5. Enhanced Customer Service: Private insurers often provide personalized customer service, with dedicated representatives available to assist with claims, coverage inquiries, and other insurance-related matters.
6. Out-of-Network Coverage: Private insurance plans may offer out-of-network coverage, granting individuals the flexibility to seek care from healthcare providers who are not part of the plan's network.
7. Comprehensive Dental and Vision Coverage: Private health insurance plans often provide more extensive coverage for dental and vision services, including orthodontics, cosmetic dentistry, and higher limits for eyeglasses and contact lenses.
8. Greater Prescription Drug Coverage: Private health insurance plans may offer a broader range of prescription drug coverage options, including access to brand-name medications that may not be fully covered by other plans.
9. Access to Employer-sponsored Plans: Private health insurance is commonly offered as part of employee benefits packages, providing individuals with the opportunity to access group plans with potentially lower premiums and additional perks.
10. Potential for Tailored Plans: Private health insurance allows for more customization, enabling individuals to tailor their coverage to their specific healthcare needs and preferences.

​
It's important to thoroughly research and compare different insurance options to determine the best fit for your individual circumstances. Private health insurance can offer a range of advantages, but it's essential to consider factors such as cost, coverage limits, and network availability before making a decision.

Hello guys, looking for some opinions and help.
My girlfriend works in a hotel chain, where her job requires her to do a lot of standing and a lot of walking during the 9-hour shift. She always had issues with her knee, due to a misaligned kneecap which she never had fixed as doctors in our homeland would always tell her that she's too young for surgery and would suggest some therapy and home exercises and to wait later in life to do the surgery. Still, she's working with that knee since 19, she 31 now, so it was manageable.
At her job they overworked her last couple of months (mostly due to bad organization and because she doesn't really stand up for herself) knowing she had a bad knee and her knee got swollen and excruciatingly painful.
She already had an appointment made with an orthopedist to check the knee, and after the check-up he told her the knee is unstable, the kneecap is quite to the left and that she developed Baker's cyst. He recommended surgery, with again the option first to do physical therapy to see if there's any improvement and gave her referral for the therapy. She was given 8 appointments to do in 3 weeks.
After that she went to her GP to see if her GP doctor can give her sick leave for couple of days until the pain and swelling goes down. But the GP told her she will give her sick leave until she finishes her physical therapy which could last 6-8 weeks (the orthopedist has sent the GP the findings and also recommended more physical therapy than first prescribed.)
The orthopedist also ordered a special knee brace she has to wear anytime she walks. The sick leave note was delivered by me to the hotel. (The GP only gave her 2 notes, one for my girlfriend and one for her employer, not for health insurance company, but my girlfriend tells me that her GP sends it to insurance.)
That was all 3 and a half weeks ago, and today my girlfriend had to go to the bank. She walks everyday for atleast an hour to get used to the kneebrace designed specifically for her knee, after that she does exercises at home that the physios taught her and rests the leg. While she was going to the bank she met her colleague, who angrily insinuated that she's faking it as if she should be in a wheelchair or walking with a cane, that the boss is saying that they'll fire her, that she better not prolong the sick leave anymore because everyone is taking sick leaves and that the note from her GP is no good (insinuating again that she's faking it), but that they have to see some confirmation from the orthopedist himself. (just to note she's not on Probezeit or anything, but a full-time employee.)
I read a lot on the internet but would still like to read some personal opinions. Do those threats hold any weight or are they trying to scare some not very well versed Ausländers?
Thanks for any and all replies.

Just a vent/wanting to see who can relate, as this has got me worked up today. I started my job search in March of 2022 after completing my MBA as I was unhappy with the company I was working for. I’ve interviewed (most of them being multiple rounds) with over 25 companies since then and accepted a role in November of 2022 with the only company who has made me an offer in the last ~15 months. The pay was the same but the benefits turned out to be horrible…way worse than I expected.
The company offers two health plans and they are both HDHP without an HSA. They use a TPA (third party administrator) instead of an actual insurance provider, and I cannot find any PCPs, OB/GYNs, psychiatrists, therapists, or neurologists who accept the coverage. I pay a $67 premium per paycheck (twice monthly) for medical, dental, and vision insurance. My annual deductible for JUST ME (no spouse, no dependents) is $6,750. That’s 1/7 of my annual pay, before taxes!! Until I’ve met my annual deductible, the plan will not cover ANYTHING except the limited preventive services predetermined by the government. I have been paying fully out of pocket for medical expenses (including prescriptions, office visits, lab work), and since I can’t find any providers in the area who accept my plan, my expenditures are not even going towards my deductible!
I found out when I scheduled a dental cleaning that the dental plan my employer offers is a “phase-in” plan. This means that for the first year of your dental coverage, while you are paying the full regular premium amount, the plan only covers cleanings and x-rays and literally nothing else. You have to wait a whole year from the start of your coverage to be eligible for fillings or anything else.
The vision insurance is also useless. I have the same vision provider as I did at my last job, but there the copay for a contact lens exam was $5, and under this plan it’s now $60.
Additionally, the company doesn’t provide paid holidays, even on days when we are not open for business. I work remotely but it is a corporate 9-5 M-F job and our offices are closed on holidays. But we have to use our PTO if we want to get paid on Memorial Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, any holiday. I had to put in a PTO request for Memorial Day.
I am honestly just insulted by the absolutely awful “benefits” this company provides. I’m planning to cancel my insurance coverage as soon as I can and either purchase my own individual plan or just go without coverage until I find a new role. Thanks for doing the bare minimum for your employees, guys!

Hello guys, looking for some opinions and help.
My girlfriend works in a hotel chain, where her job requires her to do a lot of standing and a lot of walking during the 9-hour shift. She always had issues with her knee, due to a misaligned kneecap which she never had fixed as doctors in our homeland would always tell her that she's too young for surgery and would suggest some therapy and home exercises and to wait later in life to do the surgery. Still, she's working with that knee since 19, she's 31 now, so it was manageable.
At her job they overworked her last couple of months (mostly due to bad organization and because she doesn't really stand up for herself) knowing she had a bad knee and her knee got swollen and excruciatingly painful.
She already had an appointment made with an orthopedist to check the knee, and after the check-up he told her the knee is unstable, the kneecap is quite to the left and that she developed Baker's cyst. He recommended surgery, with again the option first to do physical therapy to see if there's any improvement and gave her referral for the therapy. She was given 8 appointments to do in 3 weeks.
After that she went to her GP to see if her GP doctor can give her sick leave for couple of days until the pain and swelling goes down. But the GP told her she will give her sick leave until she finishes her physical therapy which could last 6-8 weeks (the orthopedist has sent the GP the findings and also recommended more physical therapy than first prescribed.)
The orthopedist also ordered a special knee brace she has to wear anytime she walks. The sick leave note was delivered by me to the hotel. (The GP only gave her 2 notes, one for my girlfriend and one for her employer, not for health insurance company, but my girlfriend tells me that her GP sends it to insurance.)
That was all 3 and a half weeks ago, and today my girlfriend had to go to the bank. She walks everyday for atleast an hour to get used to the kneebrace designed specifically for her knee, after that she does exercises at home that the physios taught her and rests the leg. While she was going to the bank she met her colleague, who angrily insinuated that she's faking it as if she should be in a wheelchair or walking with a cane, that the boss is saying that they'll fire her, that she better not prolong the sick leave anymore because everyone is taking sick leaves and that the note from her GP is no good (insinuating again that she's faking it), but that they have to see some confirmation from the orthopedist himself. (just to note she's not on Probezeit or anything, but a full-time employee.)
I read a lot on the internet but would still like to read some personal opinions. Do those threats hold any weight or are they trying to scare some not very well versed Ausländers? Thanks for any and all replies.

I am a 25 year old male and I help manage a swim school that teaches from infants to adults how to swim and I love it so much. I love seeing that moment when someone accomplishes something they never thought they would be able to do. I have been teaching swim lessons since high school. And have been doing it on the side ever since, throughout college and my young adult life, now it’s my full time occupation and it pays very well. I take pride in my craft. I remember what’s it’s like to meet someone new and being scared to engage. Which makes my job so challenging. I love a challenge. I have been working for this company for the last 2 years and helped it grow from having 3 full time employees to having over 7 in two locations. We have just hired a new team member that we will call “Rufus”.
Rufus came into this job brazen, almost like a bull in a China shop. About what he will and will not tolerate, and what preferences of the types of classes we would be teaching, he actually had an issue with the fact that he would have to teach entirely. He actually said “ I cannot respect a business owner who can’t teach his own swim lessons.” The pure lack of knowledge, I’m pretty sure the CEO of any grocery store does not know where each item goes on the shelf. He even told me that he does not respect my co-manager because of the way she “carries herself” and she is one the most positive influential teachers I have ever worked with. At the time of his arrival I was running the non-competitive swim team for the past year. I had no swim team coaching experience prior, but did my best to make the practices engaging and fun as possible without going to against corporate’s clear boundaries about what I can and cannot do. So Rufus wants to “help” coach the swim team. So me wanting the best for the children, I accommodated his request since Rufus did have swim coaching experience. And possibly I could get some ideas from him to help myself improve in areas I maybe lacking. So with him leading the team he is now ignoring all of policy procedures that our business owner and cooperate has explained in detail. We are a survival school not a performance competition team. The swim team is for the students who have graduated the curriculum but want to keep swimming with us until they would like to compete and I would write a recommendation letter on their behalf as I do have a positive reputation in the childcare community. And instead of telling me or asking me could he have the lead for the swim team, he attempted to have a coup with my fellow co-workers by telling them he wants control, and they just referred him back to me.
He’s telling parents that we are going to start competing when that is not something we offer. Rufus is even going as far to tell me that I’m teaching my lessons incorrectly loudly in front of clients. When our goals for each level of swimmer is clear. They’re only 5 goals. So it can’t be that confusing right? Rufus is very talented teacher as well, he can get the kids to connect with him and they respond well to him. But he teaches his classes the way “he” sees fit. We have a 25m pool and we teach on opposite sides of the pool. And I’m looking at 4 first time swimmers on my side of the pool struggling for air with nothing but a kick board. This not what the beginner level entails. Strictly essential survival skills like rolling over to breath and call for help and just to have them acclimated to the environment of lessons. God forbid if something goes wrong with of those children, I don’t care how fast you think you are, you will not be able to save all 4. Now that puts all of us at risk.
I’ve attempted to have to have professional conversations with Rufus but it’s like talking to wall. He listens to respond but not to understand. Now this morning was the last straw. Rufus texted me this morning asking about our paycheck and did I receive mine yet. I haven’t. But he asking questions about how to login to see his paystub. He follows up with “The CEO f’d up again”. I told him to stop saying that. He was complaining that money was missing from his paystub. He asked me to “do the math” while simultaneously cussing at me. Even thought this not my department but I can empathize with someone who is concerned about their livelihood. I check it over, and the money that was taken out was for his taxes. I respond with, “ I’m not minimizing or dismissing your paycheck being short, but one, you are not going to talk to me like that. I’ve been nice and professional. But your pressing me about something I have literally nothing to do with using words that people use when they are About to get into a physical altercation. Please stay off of my phone as it is my day off, and this topic can be handled by the man who signs his paychecks. He responded like a victim saying how I’ve been mean to him, for the last two weeks I’ve been cold to him. To be completely honest I have, I’m a firm believer that coworkers don’t have to be friends. Just be courteous and professional. If it’s not about swim lessons then there is nothing left to discuss. He finishes off my saying “ I’m going to let you calm down so yOu can see how big of a jerk your being.” You just can’t make this stuff up
After that inappropriate long text thread that I have now muted and stopped responding I just sent the screenshots of his rant to the owner of the company.
So, Am I The Jerk?

05/30/2023 Order Issued The Court, having had the defendant's Motion to Quash Subpoena under advisement, now grants the Motion to Quash the Subpoena Duces Tecum directed to Westville Correctional Facility relating to defendant's mental health records, mental health evaluations and/or exams, medical documentation and/or medical evaluations. The Motion to Quash the Subpoena Duces Tecum directed to Westville Correctional Facility regarding audio/video recordings, written observations, recordings, phone calls, written requests, or other documentation is denied. The Motion to Quash the Subpoena Duces Tecum directed to CVS Headquarters is denied. The defense Motion to Reconsider and Request for Due Process Hearing ordered set for hearing June 15, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. The hearing currently set on defendant's request for bail is ordered converted to a hearing on defendant's Motion to Suppress. Judicial Officer: Gull, Frances -SJ Order Signed: 05/25/2023
So if I’m reading this right the judge has ruled in favor of the defense to quash the Westville subpoena for Allen’s mental health records.
Judge denied the Motion to Quash the prosecutors access regarding audio/video recordings, written observations, recordings, phone calls, written requests, or other documentation. The prosecution gets to access to his phone calls, written observations (were his jailhouse buddies assigned to watch him taking notes on what he was saying?).
The prosecution also gets a win on The Motion to Quash the Subpoena Duces Tecum directed to CVS Headquarters is denied. Im guessing the prosecutor will be getting his employment records— I would think there would be all kinds of good stuff on his employee record to see.
Am I reading it wrong. Anyone else have an opinion on todays motions?
Edit/spelling and add a question about Motion to change bail hearing to Motion to Suppress hearing. Are they trying to suppress something Allen said to his jail handlers at Westville? Or maybe to suppress his employment records at CVS? Or are they wanting to suppress evidence in the prosecutions hands regarding a confidential informants statement regarding what was found in Allen’s backyard behind his shed, which I think is what led investigators to revisit the judge for a broader search warrant PCA to her inside Allen’s home on October 13, 2022. We do know from news reports there was a lull in the search around noon that day. It was described by a witness saying the search activities ceased in the backyard, and after a wait with everyone sitting outside, including both the Allen’s and investigators— the investigators were then seen going inside the house. I suspect the investigators found enough evidence behind his shed, which allowed them to go back to the judge with a new search warrant that included the inside of the house. I make this speculation based on the fact that a confidential informants statement was concerning the fact they burned bloody clothing behind the houses in both Peru and Delphi. Once they found enough of what they were looking for in ashes found behind his shed— allowed them probable cause to get inside the house. Once they found the gun matching the bullet extraction markings on the unfired bullet— they had him. The backyard evidence found in the ashes was only a means for which the investigators were ultimately able to get inside the guys house and confiscate his gun.

Hello. I’m starting a PGY1 and have an appointment to do a physical at their employee health center. I never actually did this before. Usually I’d just get my own doctor to sign off for me. I guess I’m a little nervous bc I don’t like the idea of my “employer” having my health records. My specific worries are that I have depression and take effexor for it (I kinda don’t want them to know about that bc of discrimination) and I’m not the healthiest :/ which I dont need them to tell me. like I dont want them coming after me and being like “your liver enzymes are high” (from graduation celebrations 😅🥲) I have my own doctors that I see and kinda don’t want to see theirs if Im honest. I have no worries about passing a drug test though (yay me) but has anyone had issues with the physical before?? Are the details of your health physical still HIPAA protected? I’m not comfortable with the RPD or preceptors knowing about my depression bc I take care of it with my own doctor. Or am I just overthinking :/ and worried about nothing? Any advice would be appreciated!!! Thank you

Hi all. I would appreciate some outside perspective on my situation. I live in California, in a high cost of living area. I've been job hunting for the last few months, and have been fortunate enough to recently receive two job offers, both with the State.
Job #1 is with the Department of Social Services, and job #2 is with a local state college, and both are administrative positions. Job #1 has a mix of office and field days, which require me to use my personal vehicle, while Job #2 has a fixed office location on campus. Job #1 has a starting pay of $4500 per month in the first year, and since it has a step system, the pay would increase to $5000 per month in year two. It also has a union. Job #2 has a starting pay of $3500 per month, but there is no step system, so there is no guaranteed pay increase annually, though it also has a union which fights for one.
Both positions have comparably good medical, dental, and vision benefits, with Job #1 requiring a minor deduction from each employee paycheck (about $50 for the employee contribution), whereas job #2 has a stipend that covers all benefits (if the basic options are selected). Both jobs have a pension, both have a union, and both have a good degree of job security, though I would suspect job #1 with the Department of Social Services would be a bit more secure, since it is more directly connected to the State. I suspect job #1 would also make more opportunities for growth and movement available to me, whereas people working in job #2 say opportunies for growth are very limited.
Since I am looking for a long-term career, and since I hope to one day buy a home in my area, job #1 seems to be the better choice by a wide margin, due to its higher pay, step system and security, as well as the doors that this position would open. However, based on my research, job #1 is highly stressful, has a high turnover rate, and is a position many feel to be overworked and underpaid. While Job #2 pays significantly less, many say that it is an enjoyable position, with low-stress, and a comfortable work environment (though a common complaint is the low and stagnant pay). If the pay for both positions were equal, I would take job #2 in a heartbeat, however, since that is not the case, I just need to determine how much of a premium I am willing to place on having a low-stress and pleasant work environment.
What are others' thoughts on my situation? Is there anyone who has ever been in a similar situation? Is there any chance job #2 would be able to match the salary of job #1, if I were to show them my official offer paperwork (I suspect they wouldn't, since it's a union job, but they also mentioned that pay was based on skills, experience, and equity, so I was thinking I could frame my request by saying that another state body, which also uses those same criteria, determined I was eligible for 4500 per month starting). I know mental health and happiness are important, and I wouldn't want to wake up every morning for the next 30-40 years dreading work, but past a certain point, I don't want to have unreasonable-- or as some could say, childish-- expectations. I should also note that, as other factors for consideration, there is a handful of people who say they love job #1, and that job #2 would be at a school I once attended, so it has tremendous sentimental value to me. I am also aware that, with either job, home ownership in my area will be difficult, and likely not possible for a few years. I appreciate any advice or wisdom anyone can share!

I am currently a W2 employee but will be doing a side gig as a contractor. The contract wants me to have a business license and Im weighing doing it as an individual or forming an LLC. He explained that I am responsible for all of my taxes. How does thst work exactly?
Im not sure what to expect or how to do it when it comes to taxes as a contractor individual or through my LLC.
This is a mental health therapist gig.
Extra info: I dont pay state tax as a military spouse. Does this apply to contractors or forming an LLC?

The CDC’s and Other Government Health Agencies Skewer the Chronically Ill, Chronic Pain and Disabled Population; A Commentary on The Latest “Guidelines” From The CDC:
(please refer to webinar)
If you don't want to watch this whopping eight minute video about government ran agencies talking about how to run our health care services for those with chronic pain, chronic illness or disabilities. Or, if you have watched it but don't really know what it means, then I will just tell you what this about and what it means. Most of this is in response to taking away or banning in many instances, the use of certain medications used to treat chronic illnesses and chronic pain that has left people disabled. They are admitting the pull out of opioids/opiates as well as their attacks on other medications such as Benzodiazepines, ADHD medications and in some states they have gone as far to reclassify muscle relaxers and Gabapentinoids as scheduled 2 narcotics. The fall out from this has left many chronic pain patients, chronically ill and disabled people without ANY health care, greater mortality rate, higher rate of homelessness, less functionality, poorer quality of life and many doctors that were not pill mills but still locked up in prison for the rest of their lives for running pain treatment centers in rural areas. They also bring up that, curiously, even though opioid/opiate prescribing is lower then it has ever been in US history, they are seeing a steep incline of illicit use of opiates amongst the adolescent demographic, to which they have never seen before. They do not understand this because young folks who have "muscle skeletal" pain are usually prescribed NSAID's or acetaminophen; they just can't figure out why the rate of illicit opiates in this demographic is higher then it has ever been when they are not even being exposed to prescription opiates. That's it they end that issue just sort of scratching their heads. According to their data if some one has not been exposed to prescription opioids/opiates these children shouldn't be doing this. According to their data NSAID's and Tylenol should be efficient enough pain relief for any and all types of muscle skeletal chronic pain conditions. I won't put words in their mouth or give you my opinion on why that is, even though my opinion would be based on some very good data, medical studies and other types of studies that have been conducted over the years. I will say that I think I shouldn't have to give anyone that opinion because I think the answer is obvious; keep in mind these kids are too young to have ever been exposed to opioids/opiate medications or crooked marketing strategies by Perdu. They go on to promote something called "healthy people by 2030" which is a government health based website that advocates for many healthy life practices and choices. One of those things is making sure that the chiropractic's industry stays open for customers, not for free at a charge, to make sure they are accommodating the needs of chronic pain patients. I am not sure why this is said and done because chiropractic treatment has been available and continues to be. They go onto say those with loved ones, friends and family that are chronic pain patients; empathy and sympathy is what is needed most. "Many times chronic pain sufferers will try to pretend they are not in pain. If this is your loved one or a friend or family member, make sure to have plenty of empathy and sympathy. Also pay attention to their body language, if they are rubbing the part of their body that is in pain or making facial expressions it's important to remind them not to over work themselves. That they need to take time to sit and rest; we need to get society to where we are stopping chronic pain at it roots". So what that means is that they expect everyone in society, employers, family, friends, loved ones, complete strangers the entirety of the health community to accommodate any all with chronic pain conditions (disability is not specified just chronic pain period). This is their answer, and the CDC is endorsing this, on how to treat chronic pain, chronic illness and disabilities in the absence of effective treatment (effective treatment being used currently is not discussed but current effective treatment implies without the use of opioid/opiate medications). Ok, so this is really confusing if you have not been keeping up with this stuff so let me fill you in on what this means in a deeper sense. As a person who has chronic pain, chronic illness or a disability. What you are supposed to do is make sure you are regularly attending physical therapy (cost estimate as much as $3,000 a session and as low as $45 for a "wellness" checkup that is only 30 min standard session is 1 hour fees vary depending on insurance, what company or if no insurance at all). Typically they recommend physical therapy once a week or every other week; although many primary and family care physicians understand once a month to be more practical for low or lack of income individuals (the CDC and Medicare almost demand once a week). You are also supposed to attend a gym and have an active membership. You are to seek a psychologist for cognitive behavioral therapy or psycho therapy to deal and manage your pain (costs on this can very widely as well as much as $200 a session). You are to see a psychiatrist to make sure your psychiatric needs are met with medications for mood management. You are also supposed to attend "mindfulness training" once a week; which is a fancy name for meditation. You are also supposed to attend either (and this is the only one they give options on) a chiropractor or get acupuncture done once a week. You are to follow up with your primary or family care physician to stay compliant on your meds (NSAID's, Tylenol, muscle relaxers, and then usually one of the following sometimes combined with one other thing but usually one; Tricyclic, SSRI, SNRI, anti-psychotic or anti-depressant that plays with neuro-nucleotides like Cymbalta, Amitriptyline, Nortriptyline, Effexor, Haldol as some examples, Steroids or Gabapentenoids such as Gabapentin or Pregabalin aka Lyrica). You are also supposed to see a pain management specialist at least once every other week (per CDC) for trigger point injections and nerve blocks or ESI's aka epidural injections (these can cost in a wide range as much as $5,000 for one injection the lowest I have personally seen is $2,000 for one injection to which some report as little as 4 hours of pain relief some injections patients report only 4 days of pain relief we are told these are supposed to relieve pain for as long as several months but really this is dependent on what pain condition you have and what is causing it and what type of injection is received for the injection). On top of all that they want to make sure that as a chronic pain patient, chronically ill or disabled to make sure to keep up with your social life by spending quality time with friends, family and loved ones. To make sure you are financially secure with either a job or disability/retirement benefits for those who apply (job is emphasized over over social programs). Lastly, to make sure you are eating healthy and getting between 8 to 10 hours of sleep a night (this is all per CDC and other government health agencies including CSMS for those whom are on retirement benefits). Now where were we, so essentially they want the entire society to let any one with chronic pain or illness or disabled to be allowed to go at their own pace. Allow for late appointments. Take breaks and rest as needed and avoid doing anything that causes or exacerbates chronic pain or illness and disabilities in the first place. They are not doing this as a policy they are doing this as a guideline so no company, corporation, business or any personnel is held to this by any legal measure. Once again I could insert my own take on this based on pretty solid evidence, but I think this is unnecessary as it should be obvious what the outcome of this will actually look like. I'll just ask this simple question; do you see an employer doing any of this for a customer or employee? Do you see all these different health care agencies accommodating to all their patients being late due to being slow and thus not punctual for this menagerie of different health care specialties the government health agencies want us to attend? The CDC seriously pushes for all, not just a couple, but all listed health specialties; and the other government health care agencies agree without question. They go on to talk about how they think the reason doctors feel so pressure by the CDC, DOJ and DEA in the helping of managing chronic pain or illness and disabilities is nothing more then they have not attended any of the CDC's seminar's; which are being updated for the fourth time in this single year. They say that doctors need to take time to understand and have deep conversations to understand their patients needs. That doctors need to be there for patients when in need of social rehabilitation and assistance such as obtaining a case worker, social worker or disability (which if you've been in this situation you know they will not do due to health insurance regulations, government interference, regulation or policy enforced by the company they work for or affiliated hospital, shortage on doctors due to covid and arresting so many for prescribing meds, health practices and administrations that run health offices running on a profit based model that basically demands that each patient visit only be 15 minutes to maximize the number of patients seen in one hour and legal issues in which many expert witnesses, colleges and other entities have sued doctors over the prospect of money which results in the termination of their job and license). Nope, none of that, it's all because they did not attend the CDC seminars that are continuously out of date and currently being "updated again" to ensure that doctors are staying compliant with the guidelines that are an unreasonable expectation at best and consistently changing. As one of the panelists says "after all these are not policies they are guidelines, and if no one knows how to work within those guidelines because they haven't taken the seminars they won't know how to implement them. We are really struggling with this one because when we passed the opiate prescribing guidelines for 2022 they were very strict and many states independently adopted these guidelines into law and policy that are different from state to state, but pretty much all do the same thing. We never intended them to be laws and policies but merely guidelines. When we released the 2023 opiate prescribing guidelines, we went back to the less strict guidelines resembling that of the 2016 opiate prescribing guidelines where the MME count was at 90MME instead of 50MME...we have seen no change in state accordance". These people act like our social safety nets are as accessible as over the counter Ibuprofen, when in fact they almost as accessible as the opioids/opiates they sought out to completely ban and obliterate out of our society regardless of the consequences is has had on health care providers and the chronic pain or illness and disabled people they were used to give back quality of life, pain relief and functionality. Andrew Klodney (one of the chief panel members that created the 2016 opiate prescribing guidelines) said "an entire generation needs to die in order for people to see my greatness". I don't think he meant to quote Hitler, but that is something Hitler did say; astonishingly Hitler also took opiate pain meds away from the chronically ill or in pain and disabled. Hitler also promoted "euthanasia" as a "humane and ethical way of helping those suffering to die with dignity". It wasn't until later many people found out he wasn't just euthanizing people who were in end of life care (or lack there of due to no opiates given to the general public, and only administered to his inner circle), as a humane and ethical way of dying with dignity; he was just killing anyone who had any kind of chronic pain, chronic illness, disability and that includes mental disabilities as well. Back on topic, the fact of the matter is our social safety nets, social rehabilitative services (SRS) like the SSA , food stamps, financial assistance and on have been slowly having their funding cut and certain facets of it being privatized over the years. The past ten years we have seen the most cuts and privatization of these programs then any other time in US history since their inception by FDR. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has not only been red taped but it is out dated. One of the reasons why you may have had your disability case denied is because the judge that decides on your case confirms the local job market with a job coach or vocational rehab specialist. The judge looks at your limitations and asks "based on this persons limitations, education and experience are their jobs in the local area this person can do and how likely is it that they can get one of these jobs?". The career specialist is financially incentivized to find a reason to deny a disability case for one. Two they do have to go off of what the current job market economy looks like, they only have to go off what it looked like since the ADA was last updated which was back in the 90's. This career specialist is absolutely reciting jobs that no longer exist and haven't existed since the late 90's or early 2000's and completely ignore the fact that things like pre covid door greeters are a thing of the past. They ignore the fact that job codes and other nifty legal loop hole language in job applications specifically designed to get around the ADA exist. They completely ignore that a vast majority of the republican party representatives have deregulated capitalism to the point of crony capitalism in the name of free market capitalism (give the employer the freedom to hire who they want and decide for themselves what is or is not a "reasonable accommodation"). This is so much to the point of government protections, I spoke with a disability discrimination attorney who said "the big corporations have got so much government protection and have been deregulated to the point I cannot even do my job. Many disability discrimination lawyers have changed their title or quit. There is no certainty or guarantee that anyone can hold a company accountable for disability discrimination anymore". To top all that off there are many company owned health care facilities, although this is not federally or state mandatory, have created policies where they are no longer taking private payers; people without health insurance. Some states are requiring each person who is disabled to reapply for disability every year, some states require that a person cannot be on disability for more then five years regardless of their disability statis. The state of Pennsylvania, to my understanding, has moved the retirement age up to 66 and the District of Columbia to age 67 some have considered even higher all the way up to age 71. Many states have cut food stamp spending or almost cut them all together to where many people who have been on food stamps for years have had their food stamps taken away from them entirely. In the state I reside in I was denied Medicaid due to the fact that, while he is my fiancé, we are not legally married and as far as they know he is nothing but a roommate. They denied my Medicaid claim because for a two person household, regardless of the relationship that person holds with you, one cannot make over the amount of $24,000 a year; I guess that is an acceptable amount for two people even when the money being made that is over $24k is not the person claiming Medicaid, but someone else's hard earned money. The mantra of the very conservative and traditionalist government when it comes to our social safety nets is one that would take us all the way back to the 1800's. Absent of major infrastructure where we all lived in small communities and everyone knew each other; they think it is the job of your friends, family and community to take care of you and not the government to which any one who has worked has paid taxes to support. The CDC and other government health agencies have made a catastrophe as the systems they are relying on are out dated, defunded and privatized. It is a system that essentially funnels people into homelessness and is one of the contributing factors as to why our homeless population continues to rise at what should be seen as 'at an alarming rate'. Which has led to outbreaks of diseases we have not seen since the 1800's like tuberculosis and cholera, due to all the human feces on the sidewalks and streets. I have been saying, it is a highly unsustainable system for the democrats to pretend they are the only party, take away pain meds which are the cheapest pain management regiment and most effective with limited risks comparatively, especially for those whom are disabled due to chronic pain and chronic illness and most likely to be unemployed or on disability. To take away opioid/opiate medications, act like they have the power to give all this untreated disabled patients with chronic pain and illness unfettered access to social programs when they do not have the ability to do this as every bill in the senate and congress put forward to do so in blocked, filibustered or expelled by the republican party. Along with that any headway progress that is made is undone on the state level where some states even redirect their social welfare funds to other entities like private home communities and private schools claiming "it stops early pregnancy and facilitates fiscal responsibility which helps homeless rates decline"; even though many chronic pain or chronic illnesses cannot be help or are caused by over working. Then the republican party red taps, defunds and privatizes our social programs. Then the republican party deregulates the market to where you cannot even hold a company accountable to nearly any laws at all. This is a system that is very dysfunctional as one is not guarantied disability income, health care, financial assistance, pain medication, employment and even if you do get employment there is no guarantee they have to do anything to accommodate your disability or health needs aside form allowing a person an inhaler for asthma or to make sure they can take their insulin during lunch. The CDC and the government health agencies that follow them blindly pretend that non of that is even ever an issue. In the webinar they even make claims that suggest if every one just lives as healthy as they possibly can, then no one would ever develop any underlying health conditions. I hate to be the arbiter of truth, but that is simply not true (that's me being nice it's BS with a capital B and we all know it). I don't know how we went from a society that understood snake oil pushers are everywhere to a society that might as well be saying we should live like the boy in the plastic bubble. Bubble or not the reality is as we grow old we fall apart and eventually we will die. You can live your life as healthy as humanly possible, and there is nothing wrong with that, but it will not stop anyone from growing old and dying nor will it stop all chronic pain or illnesses resulting in disability. Many of these things can be obtained genetically, many are from dangerous work environments that are physically intensive manual labor or repetitive and being overworked (70 hour work weeks are becoming the norm). Many times it is a combination of genetics labor. Being as healthy as you can by including (this is a real thing) waring SPF lotion inside can be helpful and lower risks but they are not a deterrent. We are incapable at this time of not only offering a suitable replacement for opioids/opiate medications, but we are also incapable at this point in time of having a society completely free of underlying health conditions such as chronic pain or illness and disability especially one where no one grows old and dies; one could easily argue we may never see such an existence as it may not even be possible. My final thought on all this is that I really don't care what kind of "guidelines" the CDC makes and other health agencies. Even if they make them into policy, how are they going to get an entire society and everything in it to accommodate (not even all) chronic pain or ill disabled people. People you don't even know, with so many conditions that cannot even be seen as they are internal. How is that even possible? Is that even possible or is this nothing more then fantasy or pipe dream? I know many people try their best and most have empathy and sympathy, but we can't even get what we already have to work in the favor of chronic pain or illness and disabilities to work now. Although many full able bodied people have the best intentions they have things going on in their life such as maintaining a sleep cycle, a social life and many of the above mentioned prescriptions given to chronic pain and illness people or those with disabilities by the CDC themselves. As the saying goes, there's only so much time in a day; and well there's only so many years to a life. Let us not deny the cold reality, taking care of a full grown adult with a chronic pain condition, chronic illness and disabilities is very arduous and taxing and most don't have the time or energy to take care of every chronic pain or illness disabled person for the 24/7 needs they may have. Let us also not pretend that every one out there has it in them to be 'the good Samaritan' especially multi-conglomerate corporations who hold a for profit model even if it is at the expense of another's well being or life and in this day age at the cost of our own society. There are many that will not engage with this, cut corners, do the bare minimum or just flat out not do it. They could be doctors, police they could be anyone within this society; ultimately it is a standard that cannot even be enforced and wont and I can pretty much guarantee that. This is the CDC's proposal of what to do since they took our pain meds away and chronic pain patients suicide rates have gone up 400%. They did this with no back up plan and since chronic pain patients and the chronically ill and disabled have had their health care turned into a joke with no resources to help. Taking away pain meds has also not caused a drop in the use and overdose of illicit opiates/opioids, it's gotten worse as many who seek their medical benefits take to the streets and become another number. The CDC members responsible for this just sit around scratching their heads like this couldn't possibly be due to the fact that they took away a safe supply leaving the entire population of society with either an illicit contaminated supply or the worst opioids or opiates possible which is buprenorphine (Suboxone) and Methadone; regardless if one is a recreational user or some one who needs them to function as close to a resemblance of their old life as possible for medical reasons; basically an entire rehash of prohibition and or the lead up to Nazi occupied Germany as if we have collective amnesia and haven't learned anything in the last 100 years at all.

I was gonna check out Callie, a Mediterranean restaurant in San Diego, and wanted to see the menu. I went on their website and saw this,
"A 4% surcharge will be added to guest checks to ensure competitive industry compensation, as well as health and medical benefits, for all of our valued full-time team members. A 20% gratuity will be added to all guest checks."
I hate places that force this shit on it's customers. Get rid of the 4% surcharge and pay your employees more. And let me decide how much to tip based on service. I will absolutely not be going here.