Questions 131~134 refer to the following passage.

Taipei has __131__ as a hub for cycling enthusiasts. The city's cycling infrastructure is impressive, with dedicated bike lanes and paths that cover most of Taipei, __132__ the safety of cyclists. With an affordable bike rental system and bike-friendly policies, it has become a haven for both commuters and recreational riders. The city's annual Taipei Bike Festival promotes cycling culture and highlights the benefits of cycling as a healthy and eco-friendly way to get around the city. __133__ , Taipei's numerous bike paths provide a great opportunity to explore the city's scenic views and lush greenery. The __134__ cycling community in Taipei includes cycling clubs and events for riders of all levels. Whether you are looking for transportation or recreation, cycling in Taipei is a great way to experience the city's culture and beauty.

Introducing SparklePro, the ultimate office cleaning service that transforms your workplace into a spotless sanctuary. Leave the daily hassle behind and let our team of __135__ professionals take care of your office space, creating a pristine environment for maximum productivity.

 __136__ , we're offering an incredible discount for those who sign up as annual members! Say goodbye to messy desks, cluttered break rooms, and dusty corners by grabbing our exclusive 30% discount on yearly memberships.

With SparklePro, you'll enjoy an __137__ range of services, including but not limited to:

1. Daily office cleaning

2.Window washing

3.Trash __138__ 

Join our growing family of satisfied clients who have experienced a cleaner, healthier, and more efficient workspace. Register now and give your office the sparkling makeover it deserves with SparklePro – where cleanliness meets professionalism.

Subject: Unpaid Overtime at ABC Trading Company

Dear Mayor,

As a single mother and an employee of the ABC trading company in your city, I am writing to you to seek your urgent assistance __139__ the issue of unpaid overtime that I have been forced to work.

Despite my dedicated service to the company for several years, my employer has __140__ asked me to work overtime without pay, which has put me under immense stress and financial difficulty. I have attempted to discuss this matter with my supervisor, but my concerns have been ignored.

__141__ Furthermore, I request that you introduce policies that safeguard workers from exploitation and mistreatment.

It is unacceptable that hard-working individuals like myself are forced to work without pay, and it is imperative that we take a stand against such practices. I trust that you share my commitment to __142__ the rights and well-being of all residents of this city.

Thank you for your attention to this matter, and I look forward to your prompt response.

Sincerely,

Jenny Liu

 ABC Trading Company Denies Recent Allegations of Bullying in the Workplace 

 ABC Trading Company denies the recent allegations of bullying in the workplace that __143__ in the media. We take all allegations of workplace bullying seriously and are currently investigating the matter to ensure that our policies and procedures are being followed.

We would like to assure our employees, customers, and stakeholders that ABC Trading Company has a strict __144__ towards any form of harassment, including bullying. Our workplace culture is built on respect, inclusivity, and professionalism, and we pride ourselves on maintaining a safe and healthy work environment for all.

We understand that workplace bullying can have a profound impact on individuals and the workplace as a whole, and we are committed to __145__ all necessary steps to prevent and address any such behavior. Our investigation into this matter is ongoing, and we will take appropriate action if any evidence of bullying is found.

ABC Trading Company would like to encourage any employee who feels they have been a victim of bullying to come forward and report it through our internal channels. __146__ 

 For more information, please contact service@mail.abctrading.com.

Questions 147~148 refer to the following instant messaging conversation.

Wilson: I am curious to know how our main rival has made a profit for three consecutive seasons.

Penny: Our rival's senior marketing manager is my boyfriend's ex-girlfriend. She has a load of creative ideas and more importantly, she hires college graduates, which seems like a smart move. They can take on board the views of the customers their own age.

Wilson: Interesting, so their success is due to hiring college graduates. But what about the cost? Isn't it expensive to hire younger, less experienced workers? 

Penny: Actually, my understanding is that they pay them slightly less than experienced workers, but they offer a lot of training and career development opportunities. This keeps the younger employees motivated and loyal.

Wilson: I see. Maybe we should consider hiring more college graduates as well.

Penny: It could be a good way to inject fresh ideas and perspectives into our customer service department. And who knows, it might even lead to increased profits like our rival.

The impact of big data on small business has been profound. With the advent of new technologies and tools, small businesses now have access to a vast amount of data that can help them make better decisions, increase efficiency, and improve customer experiences. Big data analytics enables small businesses to uncover insights about their customers, competitors, and markets that were once available only to larger enterprises. By analyzing this data, small businesses can identify trends, predict customer behavior, and optimize their operations for better performance. Additionally, big data can help small businesses improve their marketing efforts, by enabling them to target their ideal customers more effectively and tailor their messaging to better resonate with their audience. Overall, the impact of big data on small business is significant, providing a powerful tool for driving growth, innovation, and competitiveness.

Eric: Our latest hire just told me that she felt completely out of her depth in the new task she was given. 

Nancy: It seems that our new employee orientation program still has a lot to improve.

Eric: I agree. We need to make sure that new hires receive adequate training and support to help them succeed in their roles.

Nancy: Maybe we should have a more structured onboarding process that includes regular check-ins with new hires to ensure they are adjusting well.

Eric: Yes, and we should also provide opportunities for new hires to shadow experienced employees and observe how tasks are done.

Nancy: Absolutely. That way, new hires can learn by example and feel more confident in their abilities.

Although many people believe that using hands-free technology while driving is safer than holding the phone, recent research conducted by psychologists at the University of Sussex suggests otherwise. According to the study, when drivers use their phones while driving, they are forced to engage in visual imagery, which can activate the same part of the brain that is typically used to watch the road. As a result, even simple phone conversations can cause a driver to concentrate on an area that is four times smaller than usual, increasing the risk of accidents on the road. The study also found that drivers who used hands-free technology took longer to react to potential hazards, such as pedestrians or oncoming vehicles. On the other hand, having a passenger in the car is less distracting since the conversation can stop when necessary. For instance, passengers are more likely to pause the conversation when the driver needs to focus on the road.

For example, a driver who is using hands-free technology might be more focused on the conversation and less attentive to the road, leading to increased chances of an accident.

Bruce: There's a new exhibition of sculpture on at the city gallery. If you don't have any plan for the coming weekend, I'm wondering whether you'd like to go with me.

Alice: Free time is at a premium for a working single mother.

Bruce: I completely understand that. But I think the exhibition would be a great way for you to take a break and enjoy some art.

Alice: It sounds tempting, but I really don't think I can make it this weekend.

Bruce: No problem at all. Would you like me to keep you updated about other interesting events happening in the city?

Alice: Thank you for the offer, but I think I will have to decline. I appreciate your thoughtfulness though. 

Bruce: I completely understand, Alice.

A group of technology entrepreneurs are establishing a new bank, Tandem Bank, with a small office situated behind London's King's Cross station. Despite having only 140 employees, Tandem Bank aims to offer services that traditional banks require tens of thousands of staff to provide. The bank will feature an app and a small call center to serve its customers.

In the meantime, Atom Bank, located 250 miles away in Durham, has also received its license. One interesting feature of Atom Bank's app is that customers can log in without a password by simply using facial recognition or voice recognition technology.

The Bank of England has received applications from 26 other potential start-up banks, including several that will operate exclusively through a mobile app. These budding app-only banks have the potential to disrupt the banking industry by offering customers convenient and innovative ways to manage their finances.

For example, Monzo Bank, a UK-based app-only bank, has gained a lot of popularity among younger customers due to its easy-to-use app, instant payment notifications, and budgeting features. Customers can manage their money through the app, which also provides a Mastercard debit card for use both domestically and internationally. The bank has also received significant investment and has plans to expand internationally in the future.

Bishop, Tina Carter, and Sophia Parker are currently trainees at a business incubator where they have been receiving training for the past five months. They are preparing for a potential job opportunity at RIF Frozen Food Manufacturer, which will be available in one month's time. However, they are feeling anxious and worried about the competition for the limited number of open positions. They are discussing their concerns with each other and trying to stay positive and focused on their goals.

Kelly Bishop: I'm starting to worry about our chances of getting selected. There are so many of us and only a few open positions.

Tina Carter: I know what you mean. I'm concerned that I haven't been able to show off all my skills yet.

Sophia Parker: I'm just nervous about the whole interview process. What if I mess up and don't get selected?

Kelly Bishop: I've been practicing my interview skills every day, but I still feel like it's not enough.

Tina Carter: Same here. I don't want to regret not putting in more effort.

Sophia Parker: It's a tough competition, but we have to stay positive and believe in ourselves.

Kelly Bishop: You're right. We've come this far and we can't let our worries hold us back now.

Tina Carter: Agreed. Let's keep pushing and give it our all. We can do this!

Sophia Parker: Yes, we can! We just have to keep working hard and stay focused on our goals.

Dear Mayor,

Congratulations on your election as the new city mayor. I'm writing to propose a new initiative to create a network of cycling routes in the city for entertainment purposes. While the previous plan for cycling routes focused on commuting, this proposal is aimed at creating an enjoyable and healthy way for residents and visitors to explore the city.

It is worth mentioning that cycling is a popular recreational activity that provides significant health benefits, such as improving physical fitness and reducing stress levels. Additionally, cycling can boost the local economy by attracting tourists and promoting local businesses.

By creating a network of cycling routes for entertainment, we can showcase the city's unique landmarks and scenic routes, providing a new perspective for residents and visitors. This initiative will also encourage residents to engage in a more sustainable mode of transportation, reducing the city's carbon footprint.

I believe that this proposal will contribute to the city's growth, promote healthy living, and strengthen its image as a sustainable and innovative city. I hope that you will consider this proposal and support the creation of a network of cycling routes in the city for entertainment purposes. 

Thank you for your time and attention. 

Sincerely,

Harry Goldburg

The Head of the Department of Transportation

In a recent companywide email titled “Our company-wide OKR on durable savings,” Google’s finance chief Ruth Porat announced that the company is implementing cost-cutting measures, including reducing employee services. The cuts are part of an objective to “deliver durable savings through improved velocity and efficiency” by 2023. Google is cutting back on fitness classes, staplers, tape, and the frequency of laptop replacements for employees, according to documents viewed by CNBC. The company is also pausing refreshes for laptops, desktop PCs, and monitors, and providing Chromebooks as the default laptop option. Additionally, employees will need director approval for accessories costing more than $1,000 that are not available internally. The company is also making minor adjustments to food, fitness, massage, and transportation programs designed for when employees worked five days a week, as most employees are now in the office only three days a week due to hybrid schedules.

Staff Training Course: 

Communicating on Social Media for Influence and Impact 

This course will teach you how to communicate effectively on social media to make a positive impact and build a strong online presence. You'll learn about different social media platforms, how to create engaging content, build your brand, and leverage social media for influence and impact.

Lesson 1 Understanding Social Media Platforms

●Overview of major social media platforms

Lesson 2 Crafting Compelling Messages

●Techniques for creating engaging content, including text, images, and video

●Importance of storytelling and emotional appeals in social media messaging

Lesson 3 Building a Strong Online Presence

●Strategies for increasing followers and engagement

●Maintaining authenticity and managing online reputation

Lesson 4 Leveraging Social Media for Influence and Impact

●Techniques for using social media to influence opinions and drive change

●Best practices for social media advocacy and activism 

Comment Section 

1.Jane, Marketing Specialist:

Just finished the social media course, and it's been great for our marketing efforts. Better content and more engagement now. Highly recommend.

2. Steve, Nonprofit Coordinator:

Took the course for our nonprofit, and it's been a game-changer. More effective communication and increased awareness for our cause. Worth it!

3. Lisa, Freelance Writer:

As a freelance writer, this course has helped me build my online presence and grow my following. It's well-organized and easy to follow. Give it a try.

4. Carlos, Small Business Owner:

This social media course has been an excellent investment for my small business. More followers, engagement, and sales. Don't miss out on this one.

The digital nomad lifestyle has gained popularity in recent years as more people seek location-independent careers. If you are interested in transitioning to a remote work and travel lifestyle, here are some steps to consider: 

1. Identify your skills and interests: To succeed as a digital nomad, it's important to have a skill set that's in demand and aligns with your interests. Consider what you're good at and what you enjoy doing, and research which careers or industries offer remote work opportunities.

2.Build a professional network: Networking is key to finding remote work opportunities and building a successful career as a digital nomad. Join online communities and attend industry events to connect with like-minded professionals and potential clients.

3.Develop a strong online presence: Your online presence is crucial to establishing yourself as a credible professional and attracting clients. Create a professional website and social media profiles, and showcase your skills and experience through a portfolio or case studies.

4.Establish a financial plan: As a digital nomad, your income may fluctuate, so it's important to establish a financial plan that allows you to live comfortably and save for the future. Consider factors such as your cost of living, income goals, and potential tax implications.

5.Prepare for travel: Finally, as a digital nomad, you'll likely be traveling frequently. Research visa requirements and travel restrictions for the countries you plan to visit, and consider factors such as housing, transportation, and insurance. Also, ensure that you have reliable technology and internet access to stay connected with clients and colleagues.

Contact the author of this article: John Nova  @coolhomeoffice.com>@coolhomeoffice.com>

@coolhomeoffice.com>@coolhomeoffice.com>

To: John Nova

Subject: Seeking advice on becoming a digital nomad

Dear John,

I hope this email finds you well. My name is Emily, and I've been following your blog on remote working for a while now. I'm writing to seek your advice on becoming a digital nomad.

I'm seriously considering transitioning to a location-independent career and lifestyle, but I have a couple of concerns that I hope you can help me address. The two biggest challenges that I'm currently facing are:

Financial stability: While I understand the importance of building an emergency fund and having a solid financial plan, I'm worried about the uncertainty of income as a digital nomad. How can I ensure a steady stream of income while still maintaining the freedom and flexibility that comes with being a digital nomad?

Loneliness and isolation: As an extroverted person, I'm concerned about the potential for loneliness and isolation that comes with a remote work and travel lifestyle. How can I stay connected with others and build a sense of community while constantly on the move?

I'd greatly appreciate your insights and advice on these challenges. Your blog has been a great source of inspiration and information for me, and I value your expertise in this field.

Thank you for taking the time to read my email, and I look forward to hearing back from you.

Best regards,

Emily Lindsay

@coolhomeoffice.com>@coolhomeoffice.com>

Proposal: Nature Walks and Guided Tours at the Tamsui River Nature Reserve

Introduction 

The Tamsui River Nature Reserve on the northern bank of Tamsui River is a small but precious natural asset that has been preserved for many years. While the reserve is not large enough for hiking, it still offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the area. In this proposal, we suggest offering nature walks and guided tours that will showcase the flora and fauna of the reserve, while also providing opportunities for visitors to learn about environmental conservation and sustainability.

The Nature Walks and Guided Tours will be a recreational and educational activity that showcases the unique features of the reserve. The tours will be designed to be low-impact and will be conducted under the guidance of trained professionals.

The park will offer a range of activities that cater to visitors of all ages and interests. Some of the activities that can be included are:

●Nature Walks: The reserve has several well-maintained trails that offer stunning views of the river and the surrounding landscape. The park can provide guided tours and nature walks for visitors to learn about the flora and fauna of the reserve. The walks will be designed to be short, informative, and suitable for visitors of all ages.

●Environmental Education: The park can provide opportunities for visitors to learn about sustainable practices like organic farming, renewable energy, and waste management. This can be done through workshops, interactive exhibits, and guided tours. 

To support these activities, the park will have several facilities, including: 

●Visitor center:The park will have a visitor center that will provide information on the reserve, the activities available, and the rules and regulations.

●Guided Tours: The park will have trained professionals who can guide visitors on nature walks and provide information on the environment and the local ecosystem. 

The Nature Walks and Guided Tours at the Tamsui River Nature Reserve will be a unique experience that showcases the natural beauty of the reserve while promoting environmental education and sustainability.

Dear Mayor,

We oppose the proposal to create an Eco-Adventure Park or offer guided tours at the Tamsui River Nature Reserve. Our reasons are:

1. Ecological harm: Construction and increased human traffic will harm the natural habitat and displace wildlife, leading to a loss of biodiversity.

2.Environmental damage: Increased human traffic will lead to soil erosion, vegetation damage, and water pollution.

3.Purpose of the reserve: The proposal contradicts the reserve's purpose to preserve and protect the natural ecosystem and promote ecological sustainability.

We urge you to consider our concerns and protect the natural environment of the reserve.

Sincerely,

Green Warriors, a regional environmental group

As a busy office worker, I always try to make the most of my weekends and take some time out for myself. This weekend, I decided to go for a nature walk in the newly opened Tamsui River Nature Reserve. I was pleasantly surprised by the beauty of the reserve and the variety of wildlife that I saw during my walk.

The trail was well-maintained and easy to navigate, with several lookout points that offered stunning views of the river and the surrounding landscape. I also had the opportunity to learn about the local flora and fauna from the knowledgeable guide who accompanied me on the walk.The guide provided detailed information about the different plants and animals that I encountered, which helped me to appreciate the unique features of the reserve even more.

The experience of walking in the Tamsui River Nature Reserve was both peaceful and invigorating. It was a great way to connect with nature and unwind from the stresses of city life. I feel grateful to have such a beautiful natural asset so close to where I live, and I look forward to visiting the reserve again in the future.

I highly recommend the Tamsui River Nature Reserve to anyone looking for a tranquil and educational experience in nature.

Looking for a pair of running shoes that will help you go the extra mile? Look no further than Sunshine Shoe Store! Our selection of running shoes is perfect for all types of runners, from beginners to seasoned athletes.

Our running shoes are designed to provide superior comfort and support, allowing you to run for longer without experiencing pain or discomfort. We offer a variety of styles and brands, so you can find the perfect pair to suit your individual needs and preferences.

Our knowledgeable and friendly staff are always on hand to help you find the perfect pair of running shoes. They can provide expert advice on fit, support, and durability, ensuring that you get the best possible pair of shoes for your needs.

So why wait? Come visit Sunshine Shoe Store today and find the perfect pair of running shoes to help you achieve your fitness goals. With our unbeatable selection, expert advice, and top-quality brands, you're sure to find the perfect pair of shoes for your needs.

Dear Emily Wilson,

I hope this email finds you well. I am reaching out to request more shoes from your company due to the high demand that we have experienced following our recent advertising campaign.

As you know, Sunshine Shoe Store has been promoting our running shoes aggressively over the past few weeks. We are thrilled with the response we've received from our customers, who have been coming in droves to purchase our high-quality shoes. However, we are now experiencing a shortage of certain sizes and styles of shoes, and we need to restock our inventory quickly.

Therefore, I am writing to request an urgent delivery of running shoes from your company. Specifically, we need more shoes in sizes 8-10 and a restock of the Nike Air Max 270 React shoes, as those have been the most popular style among our customers.

We are confident that our partnership with your company will allow us to continue to meet the needs of our customers and provide them with the best possible products. We appreciate your prompt attention to this matter and look forward to hearing from you soon.

Thank you for your cooperation.

Best regards,

Jessica Doe

Sunshine Shoe Store

A Comment from Judy Ya 

I recently visited Sunshine Shoe Store and was blown away by the quality and style of their running shoes. It's no surprise they are experiencing high demand for their products. I look forward to purchasing more shoes from them in the future

Questions 196~200 refer to the following social media post, comments, and email.

 

Glamify Cosmetics Corporation
Hey there beauty lovers! ??
We have an amazing surprise for you! For the next 24 hours, we're offering a HUGE 30% discount on selected items in THREE different categories:
? Lipsticks
? Eyeshadow palettes
? Blushes
You heard that right! You can now get your hands on some of our best-selling products at an unbeatable price. Whether you're looking for a bold new lip color, a stunning eyeshadow palette or a gorgeous blush to complete your look, we've got you covered!
Don't wait too long, this offer is only available for the next 24 hours. Shop now and take advantage of this incredible discount before it's too late. You won't regret it! ?
#makeup #cosmetics #lipsticks #eyeshadow #blushes

________________________
Comment Section

 

Mia

 "I'm in love with the Glamify Cosmetics lipsticks! They're so pigmented and last all day. The 30% discount is an amazing deal, I'm definitely going to stock up on my favorite shades." 

 

Lily

 "The eyeshadow palettes from Glamify Cosmetics are a game changer! The colors are so vibrant, and there's a shade for every occasion. I can't wait to try out some new looks with the palette I just bought at a huge discount."

 

Doris

 "I've been looking for the perfect blush for ages, and I finally found it with Glamify Cosmetics! The formula is so smooth and buildable, and the colors are stunning. I'm so happy I got it on sale - thank you Glamify Cosmetics for the amazing deal." 

 

________________________

Subject: Request for Full Refund for Eyeshadow Palettes

 

Dear Customer Service Team,

 

I am writing to request a full refund for the eyeshadow palettes that I recently purchased from

 

Glamify Cosmetics. I returned the items last week due to two specific flaws that I experienced with the product.

 

Firstly, I found that the eyeshadow was not as blendable as I expected, which made it difficult to create the looks I was hoping for. Additionally, I experienced significant fallout when applying the product, which was frustrating and time-consuming to clean up.

 

I was disappointed with the quality of the product and felt that my shopping experience was quite different from those who left positive comments on the website.

 

I was excited to try out these eyeshadow palettes, but unfortunately, they did not meet my expectations. I would appreciate a full refund for the purchase price of the eyeshadow palettes. I have already returned the items using the provided return label and would be grateful if you could process the refund as soon as possible.

 

Thank you for your attention to this matter, and I look forward to hearing back from you soon.

 

Sincerely,

 

Rita