The Cost of Overlooking Real Workers – Ace Burlington, WI During my time as a cashier, I was more than just someone who rang up transactions—I built relationships with customers, made them feel valued, and went beyond my job description daily. Whether it was helping a struggling customer, looking out for the remodel crew, or creating a welcoming atmosphere that brought people back, I made an impact. And yet, management chose to dismiss that value. I was denied basic breaks due to staffing shortages while others received preferential treatment. I witnessed a culture that encouraged complacency and protected incompetence while disregarding those who actually did the work. When I advocated for myself, I was met with condescension rather than appreciation. Now, with two locations severely understaffed, I’m curious—who will step up? Who will bring the heart and dedication that I, and others like me, brought every single day? I am a Military Veteran, honored with an Army Achievement Medal, a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, and a NATO Medal. I am a graduate of Alverno College, multilingual, and have years of customer service and teaching experience. I am also someone who genuinely cares about people and the community. But despite all that, Ace Burlington would rather overlook real value to focus on people who do not contribute where it matters most—inside the stores, connecting with the communities that keep Ace alive. Ace prides itself on being "The Helpful Place," but when management fails to respect and retain its best employees, what kind of help is actually being provided? I hope corporate starts paying closer attention before more dedicated, hardworking employees walk out the door—taking the true magic of the store with them. Sincerely, Milanka Sulejic