通勤學英語 15Mins Today

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments Topic: About Canada - Quebec unlocks world’s only maple syrup strategic reserve Quebec Maple Syrup Producers（QMSP）is releasing more than half of the world’s only strategic reserve of 45 million kg of maple syrup to keep up with soaring demand - avoiding a sticky situation for pancake lovers. 魁北克楓糖漿商會（QMSP）正釋出全球僅有的4500萬公斤楓糖漿戰略儲備的逾半儲量，以滿足高漲的需求，避免鬆餅迷無楓糖可吃。 Sales of maple syrup have climbed since the pandemic spread in 2019 and led to more people eating at home. Adding to the syrup squeeze, Quebec’s harvest in 2020 was the smallest in three years due to unusually warm weather. 自2019年疫情蔓延、導致人們更常在家吃飯以來，楓糖漿銷量一飛衝天。由於不尋常的溫暖氣候影響，魁北克省2020年的收成量創下3年新低，也使楓糖漿更加缺貨。 The Global Strategic Maple Syrup Reserve spans 24,805 square meters, the equivalent of five football fields, securing syrup in sterilized 170-liter barrels. 「全球策略性楓糖漿保留計畫」的儲備廠佔地2萬4805平方公尺，相當於5座足球場，楓糖漿則密封在170公升的滅菌桶中。 QMSP is also approving 7 million new taps during the next three years, a 14% increase, to bolster production. QMSP也同意在3年內增採700萬棵楓樹，約增加14％，以提升楓糖漿生產量。 Next Article Topic: To keep coronavirus out, Canada’s smallest province kept the rest of the country away 為了不讓新冠病毒進入 加拿大最小省分與全國其他地方保持距離 In the winter months, when icy conditions keep most people from traveling by sea, there are only two ways to enter Prince Edward Island: by plane or an eight-mile bridge. 在（因海面）冰凍以致大多數人無法搭船（上島）的冬季月份，只有兩種方式可以進入愛德華王子島：搭機或（開車走）8英里長的橋。 When the novel coronavirus started spreading around the world early this year, Canada’s smallest province, off the country’s eastern coast north of Nova Scotia, found itself at a geographical advantage. The island’s remoteness, paired with an aggressive isolation campaign that restricted nonessential travel and enforced two-week quarantines for those arriving in the province, paid dividends. 當今年稍早新冠病毒開始蔓延全球之際，這個位於加拿大東岸外海、新斯科舍省以北的加國最小省分，發現自己享有地理上的優勢。該島的偏僻性，再加上限制非必要旅遊以及蒞臨該省者強制檢疫2週的激進隔離活動，獲致良好效果。 By late April, as death counts were ticking upward in other parts of Canada and soaring in the United States, the province had confirmed just 27 cases of the virus — all of them linked to off-island travel. None of those patients was hospitalized, and no one died. 到了4月底，當加拿大其他地區的死亡人數向上攀升，美國的死亡人數也一飛沖天之際，該省只有27起新冠病毒確診病例─所有病例都與島外差旅有關。這些患者中無人住院，也無人死亡。Source article: https://features.ltn.com.tw/english/article/paper/1506234 ; https://features.ltn.com.tw/english/article/paper/1388474 Next Article Topic: Fly south or roost? Canadian ’snowbirds’ weigh Florida mid-pandemic Birds of a feather normally flock together, but the pandemic has divided Canada’s "snowbird" warm weather migrants into two camps：those staying home this winter and those heading to Florida no matter the cost. 通常來說，物以類聚，但是這場疫情已經使加拿大每年遷徙到氣候溫暖區的「雪鳥族」分成兩陣營：待在家鄉過冬，以及不計代價前往佛州者。 Nearly a million Canadians make the annual pilgrimage, fleeing to the southern United States to pass what would otherwise be gray and snowy months with their toes tucked in the sand and ocean breeze in their hair. 每年有將近100萬名加拿大人飛奔到美國南方，享受漫步沙灘、和煦海風吹過髮梢，度過在家鄉會是滿是灰白雪世界的幾個月。 The coronavirus has led a majority to forgo the trip this year － but for those flouting Canada’s repeated calls to stay put, the price tag on winter at the beach has skyrocketed. 新型冠狀病毒導致今年大多數人放棄這趟旅程，但是對那些不顧加拿大一再呼籲不要旅行的人來說，到南方沙灘過冬的代價飛漲。 + Sure? Each plane ticket costs Can$500 and hauling the vehicle 55 miles across the border sets customers back $1,000. 每張機票要500加幣，把車子運送55英里越過邊境，則要花上1000加幣。 Next Article Canadian officials warn drivers not to let moose lick their cars 加拿大官員警告駕駛 不要讓駝鹿舔他們的車 Officials in Jasper, an alpine town in Canada’s Alberta province, have put up signs asking motorists to avoid allowing moose to lick the salt off their cars. 加拿大亞伯達省高山小鎮賈斯柏的官員們，已經張貼標語要求駕駛人不得允許駝鹿舔他們車外的鹽。 "They’re obsessed with salt, it’s one of the things they need for the minerals in their body," Jasper National Park spokesman Steve Young told CNN. "They usually get it from salt lakes in the park, but now they realized they can also get road salt that splashes onto cars." 「他們癡迷於鹽，鹽是其中一種牠們身體必需的礦物質」，賈斯柏國家公園發言人史蒂夫．楊告訴美國有線電視新聞網，「他們通常會從公園的湖鹽獲取它（礦物質），但現在他們知道，他們也能從濺在車上的路鹽得到」。 At the Jasper National Park, where people often park on the side of the road in hopes of catching a glimpse of the moose, letting the animals near your car is actually a serious danger. 賈斯柏國家公園內時常有人停車在路邊，希望能得到駝鹿的注意，但讓動物接近你的車，其實是非常危險的。 By allowing moose to lick the salt off your car, they will become habituated with being around cars. That poses a risk to both the animals and the drivers who can accidentally crash into them. 允許駝鹿舔你的車外的鹽，將會讓牠們習慣徘徊於車子旁邊。對動物及可能意外與牠們相撞的駕駛人都構成風險。 Source article: https://features.ltn.com.tw/english/article/paper/1422097 Topic: In Canada, Unraveling Centuries of Indigenous Land Claims Whenever Prime Minister Justin Trudeau or his Cabinet ministers speak in certain parts of Ontario or Quebec, they begin by acknowledging they are on “unceded Algonquin territory.” 每當總理賈斯汀．杜魯多或他的內閣部長在安大略或魁北克省的特定地方發表演說時，都會以承認他

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments Other ways to say: TallLofty 高大: This word generally refers to a great or extreme height. It can be used to describe tall buildings, trees, or mountains, and occasionally people.Example: "His lofty stature makes him an excellent basketball player."Elevated提高的: Elevated is more commonly used to describe buildings or locations but can be metaphorically applied to people.Example: "She has an elevated presence that makes her stand out in the crowd."Tower-like如高塔: This is used to describe someone who is very tall, like a tower.Example: "His tower-like height was intimidating."Sky-scraping大樓般: This term is commonly used for very tall buildings, but it can be humorously or poetically used to describe people.Example: "His sky-scraping height was a sight to behold." Other ways to say: Short Petite嬌小: This term is often used to describe someone small in height, especially women.Example: "Despite her petite size, she has a commanding presence."Small-statured身材小: This phrase is a more formal way to say someone is short.Example: "Though he was small-statured, he carried himself with the dignity of a king."Compact袖珍: This term can be used to describe someone short and often implies someone sturdy or well-proportioned.Example: "Her compact build is perfect for gymnastics."Low-set低設置: This term describes something that is not tall and is closer to the ground.Example: "The low-set building was dwarfed by the skyscrapers surrounding it." 分享時間               Tell a personal experience related to something / experience that you would use “tall” and “short”Pick 4 words and make sentences

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments 每日英語跟讀 Ep.K598: Pursue Your Dreams with Determination, Tech CEOs Inspire Graduates During in-person graduation ceremonies held by several major universities in Taiwan for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic, Jensen Huang, the co-founder and CEO of Nvidia, urged National Taiwan University (NTU) graduates to actively chase their dreams. In his speech, he emphasized the importance of running, not walking, towards their goals. Huang compared pursuing dreams to running for food or running to avoid becoming prey, highlighting the urgency and dedication required to succeed. 自從COVID-19大流行以來，幾所台灣重要的大學首次舉行了現場的畢業典禮，Nvidia的共同創辦人兼首席執行官黃仁勳在其中一場典禮上鼓勵國立台灣大學的畢業生積極追尋夢想。他在演講中強調了為實現目標奔跑而不是行走的重要性。黃先生將追求夢想比喻為奔跑覓食或逃避成為獵物，突顯了成功所需的迫切性和奉獻精神。 Other notable tech executives also addressed graduating students at various Taiwanese universities. National Chengchi University held two ceremonies, featuring Patrick Pan, an alumnus and the head of Taiwan and Hong Kong operations at Meta (owner of Facebook), and Tung Tzu-hsien, the chairman of Pegatron. At National Taiwan University of Science and Technology (NTUST), the CEO of TUL Corp, Ted Chen, who is also an alumnus, delivered the commencement speech. Chen encouraged graduates to maintain an optimistic mindset and approach challenges with calmness. 其他知名的科技公司高層也在台灣各大學的畢業典禮上向畢業生發表了演講。國立政治大學舉行了兩場典禮，分別邀請了校友：Facebook母公司Meta在台灣和香港業務的負責人潘先國，以及和碩聯合科技董事長童子賢。國立臺灣科技大學則請到該校校友的撼訊科技總經理陳劍威發表畢業典禮演講。陳先生鼓勵畢業生保持樂觀的心態，冷靜的面對挑戰。 While many universities invited speakers from the tech industry, National Taiwan Normal University chose Academia Sinica's Lee Fong-mao, a Taoist, to deliver the commencement speech. Lee encouraged the graduating students, totaling 4,469, to fearlessly pursue unconventional or unpopular subjects and themes if they plan to pursue careers in academics. He emphasized that through dedication and passion, individuals can shape their lives in unique ways. 儘管許多大學邀請了科技業的嘉賓演講，國立台灣師範大學則選擇了中央研究院的道教研究院士李豐楙作為畢業演講嘉賓。李先生鼓勵這4469名畢業生在追求學術事業時勇敢地追求非傳統或不受歡迎的主題和題材。他強調，通過奉獻和熱情，個人可以以獨特的方式塑造自己的生活。 At National Chi Nan University, Hsieh Hsiang-tang, a student of Rukai descent, incorporated a quote from Rukai writer Avuinni Kadreseng in her graduation speech. Hsieh expressed that enduring discomfort often leads to the discovery of valuable principles. She encouraged her fellow graduates to embrace challenges and strive for success, while respecting traditional wisdom and utilizing modern technology to strengthen their connection with the land. 在國立暨南國際大學，畢業生謝享唐引用了魯凱族作家Avuinni Kadreseng的一句話作為她的畢業演講。謝同學表示，忍受不適往往導致發現有價值的原則。她鼓勵同學們接受挑戰，努力追求成功，同時尊重傳統智慧，利用現代科技來加強他們與土地的聯繫。 Reference article: https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2023/05/28/2003800556

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments 每日英語跟讀 Ep.K597: Embracing the New Tools: Musician Releases Album Created with AI-Generated Samples The music industry is currently facing uncertainty as artificial intelligence (AI) gains prominence, but one artist, Damien Roach, known as "patten," is embracing these new tools. In a groundbreaking move, Roach created an entire album, titled "Mirage FM," solely using AI-generated samples. He believes that AI has the potential to expand access to music and empower more individuals to express their creativity. However, experts point out that the commercialization of AI-generated music resides in a legal gray area. 隨著人工智慧（AI）的崛起，音樂行業目前面臨著不確定性，但音樂家Damien Roach，以"patten"的名字為人所知，正在擁抱這些新工具。Roach以開創性的方式創作了一張完全由AI生成的樣本組成的專輯，名為"Mirage FM"。他相信AI有潛力擴大音樂的可及性，讓更多人能夠表達自己的創造力。然而，專家指出AI生成音樂的商業化在法律上存在灰色地帶。 Initially, Roach did not plan to release an album when he discovered the AI-music tool Riffusion in December. However, after spending 48 intensive hours exploring the tool and recording numerous materials, he changed his mind. Roach, based in London, compiled a collection of AI-generated music samples, meticulously selecting interesting fragments and skillfully editing and cutting samples. Eventually, in April, he released the 21-track album through his creative agency and label, 555-5555. 最初，Roach在去年12月發現AI音樂工具Riffusion時並沒有計劃發布專輯。然而，在花費了48個密集的小時探索該工具並錄製了大量材料後，他改變了主意。Roach位於倫敦，他編輯和剪輯AI生成的音樂樣本，精心挑選有趣的片段。最終，他於今年4月通過自己的創意代理公司和廠牌555-5555發布了這張包含21首曲目的專輯。 "Mirage FM" encompasses a range of genres, including house, garage, pop, and grime, and can be streamed for free on various platforms such as SoundCloud and YouTube. Moreover, the album is available for purchase on Bandcamp, priced at £7 ($8.64). Roach envisions a future where AI-assisted music production can be commercialized, and he encourages others to embrace these technological advancements rather than resist them. "Mirage FM"涵蓋了多種流派，包括house、garage、pop和grime，可以在SoundCloud和YouTube等各種平台上免費收聽。此外，該專輯在Bandcamp上售價為£7（8.64美元）。Roach展望著未來AI輔助音樂製作能夠商業化，並鼓勵其他人接受這些技術進步，而不是抵制它們。 The emergence of AI-generated music has stirred a divisive response within the industry. While the music continues to grow in sophistication, many creators express concerns about the potential financial impact and the eerie possibilities it presents. In April, a song generated in the style of Drake and The Weeknd went viral, sparking a heated debate and numerous imitations on TikTok. Major record labels and streaming platforms have expressed intentions to eliminate AI-generated content or protect artists from unwanted imitation. Spotify, for instance, removed thousands of songs generated through the AI-startup Boomy, which allows users to generate music and earn royalties from streams. AI生成的音樂的出現引起了業內的爭議。儘管音樂不斷變得越來越精細，但許多創作者對其潛在的經濟影響和詭異的可能性表示擔憂。今年4月，一首以Drake和The Weeknd風格生成的歌曲在TikTok上瘋傳，引發了激烈的辯論和無數的模仿。主要唱片公司和串流平台表示將努力消除AI生成的內容，或保護藝術家免受不需要的模仿。例如，Spotify已經移除了通過AI新創公司Boomy生成的成千上萬首歌曲，該平台允許用戶生成音樂並從串流平台中獲得版稅。 Roach maintains that the use of AI in music should not be seen as a "black-and-white issue." While he acknowledges the need to address concerns surrounding deep fake songs imitating established artists, he also emphasizes the potential of AI tools to enhance accessibility and broaden the means of musical expression for more people. The legality surrounding the commercialization of AI-generated content remains complex, with ongoing debates about ownership and financial rights. However, experts suggest that if AI-generated music incorporates significant creative input from its creator, it may be eligible for copyright protection. Despite the challenges, music and intellectual property lawyers remain optimistic, believing that AI-powered styles and approaches can be enjoyed ethically and lawfully, contributing to the evolution of music creation. Roach主張在音樂中使用AI不應該被看作是一個"非黑即白的問題"。雖然他承認有必要解決與模仿已知藝術家的深度偽造歌曲有關的問題，但他也強調AI工具的潛力，協助降低門檻（加強可及度），擴大更多人的音樂表達方式。關於AI生成內容的商業化的合法性依然復雜，涉及到對所有權和經濟權益的持續辯論。然而，專家們認為，如果AI生成的音樂包含創作者的顯著創造性投入，那麼它可能有資格獲得版權保護。儘管面臨挑戰，音樂和知識產權律師們對此表示樂觀，他們相信以AI為動力的音樂風格和方法可以在合法、倫理的前提下享受，並對音樂創作的演進做出貢獻。 Reference article: https://www.businessinsider.com/music-industry-freaking-out-ai-generated-album-embrace-artificial-intelligence-2023-5

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments Summary: 討論文章: https://www.apple.com/tw/newsroom/2023/06/introducing-apple-vision-pro/ This week, Angel and I geek out over the latest Apple product - the Vision Pro. We also talk about whether it's good to always go for the latest gadget. Comment down below what you think about Apple's Vision Pro! 歡迎投稿有趣的主題給醬老師與Angel老師。 Vocabulary: 1. Latest and greatest exp. 最先進/最新/最頂級的 Every year at WWDC, Apple will roll out their latest and greatest products. 每年WWDC，蘋果都會發表最新最頂級的產品。 2. Spatial computing n. 空間運算 Tim Cook claims that Vision Pro will bring about the era for spatial computing. Tim Cook 認為Vision Pro將會帶來空間運算的新時代。 3. Trade-in program n. 舊換新方案 If you are in the market for a laptop, you can consider Apple's trade-in program. 如果你有想要換筆電的話，可以考慮蘋果的舊換新方案。 更多Vocab Podcast節目: https://www.15mins.today/vocab 歡迎主題投稿/意見回覆 : [email protected] 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected]

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments 每日英語跟讀 Ep.K596: 驚人發現：A Surprising Discovery: California Family Finds 1 Million Copper Pennies in Old Home John Reyes, a realtor from southern California, faced an unexpected dilemma when helping his wife clean out her father's Los Angeles home. In the process, the family stumbled upon a hidden treasure: over 1 million copper pennies tucked away in a cramped crawlspace. The pennies, stored in numerous bank bags, hold a face value of $10,000 and potentially much more, according to KTLA News. This astounding find has left the family grappling with what to do with this substantial amount of coins. 加州南部的房產經紀人約翰·雷耶斯（John Reyes）在幫助妻子清理她父親在洛杉磯的家時，遇到了一個意外的困境。在這個過程中，這個家庭意外地發現了一個藏匿在狹小隔層爬行空間中的寶藏：一百多萬枚美分硬幣。根據KTLA新聞的報導，這些美分存放在許多銀行袋中，按面值價值為1萬美元，但實際價值可能遠遠超過這個數字。這個驚人的發現讓這個家庭陷入了如何處理這麼大量的硬幣的苦惱之中。 The 1900s-era home, once belonging to John's father-in-law, Fritz, is believed to have served as a bed and breakfast. Fritz and his brother, immigrants from Germany, resided in the house for decades until Fritz's passing and his brother's subsequent relocation. In their quest to clean out and renovate the property for modern use, the family encountered significant challenges. Reyes described the laborious process of removing items of varying significance, which took several years. It was during this process that they made the remarkable discovery hidden within the crawlspace. 這座建於1900年代的房子原屬於約翰的岳父弗里茨（Fritz），據信曾經是一家旅館。弗里茨和他的兄弟，來自德國的移民，在這所房子裡住了數十年，直到弗里茨去世並且他的兄弟搬離。在清理並翻新這所房子以適應現代使用的過程中，這個家庭遇到了很大的困難。雷耶斯描述了清理不同重要性物品的費時過程，共花了他們數年的時間。就在這個過程中，他們在爬行空間裡發現了這個令人驚奇的寶藏。 Upon further exploration, the family uncovered loose pennies, once encased in deteriorated paper rolls, along with crates, boxes, and numerous coin bags containing copper pennies from past decades. Reyes mentioned that some of the banks associated with these coins no longer exist, adding to the intrigue. To confirm their authenticity, the family tested a sample of the pennies, verifying that they were indeed made of copper. In contrast, modern pennies are composed of copper-plated zinc, with zinc-coated steel pennies produced during World War II when copper was in high demand. Since 1982, pennies have primarily been made from zinc. 在進一步探索中，這個家庭發現了散落的美分硬幣，曾經被破爛的紙卷包裹著，還有一些木箱、紙箱和許多過去幾十年裝滿銅美分的硬幣袋。雷耶斯提到，其中一些與這些硬幣有關的銀行已不存在，這增添了一些神秘感。為了確認它們的真實性，這個家庭測試了一小部分的硬幣，證實它們確實是由銅製成的。相比之下，現代的美分硬幣由鍍銅鋅製成，而在二戰期間，由於銅的需求量很高，美分硬幣曾經是由鍍鋅鋼製成的。自1982年以來，便士主要是由鋅製成。 While estimating that they had accumulated approximately 1 million pennies based on the weight of the bags, the family encountered challenges when attempting to cash in on their value. Initially considering Coinstar, Reyes abandoned the idea due to the 8% fee associated with the service. Contacting banks proved futile as well, as the vast number of coins exceeded their vault capacities. Additionally, the family remains hopeful that among the coin bags, there may be a rare penny worth millions on its own. Aware of the potential value and uniqueness of their find, the family has listed the hoard for sale on OfferUp, an online resale platform, with an asking price of $25,000. While they have received offers for individual coins, no one has yet made an offer for the entire collection. 家庭根據袋子的重量估計，他們累積了大約一百萬枚美分硬幣，但是當他們試圖兌現這些美分硬幣的價值時，遇到了困難。一開始，雷耶斯考慮使用Coinstar服務，但由於該服務收取8%的費用，他放棄了這個想法。聯繫銀行也無果，因為這麼多的硬幣超出了他們的金庫容量。此外，家庭仍然希望在這些硬幣袋中可能有一枚價值數百萬的罕見便士。意識到他們發現的硬幣的潛在價值和獨特性，家庭已經在線上轉售平台OfferUp將這些硬幣列出待售，要價2.5萬美元。儘管他們收到了關於個別硬幣的報價，但還沒有人提出收購全部收藏的申請。 Reference article: https://www.foxnews.com/lifestyle/california-family-finds-1-million-copper-pennies-old-home

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments 每日英語跟讀 Ep.K595: 暗黑破壞神 IV：極限挑戰 - 玩家競逐專家模式100級 Diablo IV: The Ultimate Challenge - Players Race to Level 100 in Hardcore Mode The long-awaited Diablo IV has finally arrived, offering a thrilling adventure filled with treacherous dungeons and legions of demons to conquer. Millions of fans have answered the call to arms, eager to immerse themselves in Blizzard's latest installment of the beloved action RPG series. However, amidst the excitement, Blizzard has issued a special challenge that will test the mettle of the bravest players: achieving level 100 in Hardcore mode. This formidable difficulty level introduces permadeath, making victory all the more precious, as those who conquer this challenge will have their names forever etched into the annals of legend. 期待已久的暗黑破壞神 IV 終於問世，帶來一場顫慄的地下城冒險和無數惡魔的征服。數百萬的粉絲已經響應號召，渴望沉浸在暴雪最受歡迎的動作角色扮演遊戲系列新作。然而，在這份興奮中，暴雪提出了一個特殊的挑戰，將考驗最勇敢的玩家：在專家模式下達到100級。這個艱鉅的模式引入了永久死亡機制，使勝利變得更加珍貴，因此那些順利征服挑戰的人將永遠被刻在傳奇的史冊上。 Diablo IV, set in the dark and twisted fantasy world of Sanctuary, aims to deliver an endlessly satisfying cycle of demon slaying and loot hunting. Early reviews suggest that the game lives up to the lofty expectations set by its predecessors, though concerns regarding its monetization model remain. Hardcore mode, a fan-favorite feature, returns to offer an even greater challenge for those seeking the ultimate test of skill and courage. 暗黑破壞神 IV 設定在一個黑暗而扭曲的奇幻世界聖堂，旨在帶來一個無盡的滿足迴圈，讓玩家屠魔和尋寶。早期評論表明，這款遊戲不負前作所設立的崇高期望，儘管人們對其收費模式表示擔憂。而作為受歡迎的功能，專家模式再度回歸，為那些追求技能和勇氣的最終考驗玩家們提供更大的挑戰。 In this relentless mode, your hero has but one life to live. Should death befall them, all progress, levels, and hard-earned abilities are irreversibly lost. To incentivize players to undertake the risk of permadeath and race to reach level 100, Blizzard has devised a unique reward. The first 1,000 players to achieve this monumental feat will have their BattleTags immortalized on a physical statue of Lilith, the game's antagonist. This gesture serves as a testament to their unwavering determination and mastery of the game's most challenging mode. 在這個無情的模式中，你的英雄只有一條生命。如果他們死亡，所有的進度、級別和辛苦獲得的能力都將永遠丟失。為了激勵玩家冒著永久死亡的風險並爭取達到100級，暴雪設計了一個獨特的獎勵。首批達到這一壯舉的一千名玩家的BattleTag將被刻在遊戲反派角色莉莉絲的實體雕像上。這個舉動是對他們堅定的毅力和對遊戲最具挑戰性模式的精通的證明。 One player, Wudijo, has already etched his name in Diablo IV's history. Not only did he triumph over the world boss Ashava with a Hardcore character, but he also became the first to attain level 100 in Hardcore mode through solo play. Wudijo's relentless four-day race to the level cap showcased his dedication and skill, leaving him both exhausted and exhilarated. While others employed group strategies to accelerate their progress, Wudijo's solo endeavor exemplifies the true essence of a solitary challenge. 一位名叫Wudijo的玩家已經在暗黑破壞神 IV 的歷史中留下了他的名字。他不僅以一個專家模式角色擊敗了世界首領Ashava，還成為通過單人遊玩達到100級的第一位玩家。Wudijo 不懈地奮戰四天到達最高級別，展示了他的奉獻和技巧，使他既疲憊又興奮。儘管其他玩家通過組隊策略來加速進度，Wudijo 的獨自努力體現了獨特挑戰的真正精髓。 As the Diablo community embraces the journey towards level 100 in Hardcore mode, discussions have arisen regarding certain party-based tactics, such as the controversial "dungeon reset button." Players eagerly await clarification from Blizzard on whether this tactic will remain a valid strategy or be patched out of the game. Despite such debates, the shared goal of being among the first 1,000 players to achieve level 100 fuels their determination, ensuring their spot on Blizzard's revered Lilith statue. 隨著暗黑破壞神社群開始追求專家模式的100級之旅，某些關於組隊戰術的討論浮出水面，比如爭議性的「重置地下城按鈕」。玩家們熱切期待暴雪對於這種策略是否仍然有效或將被遊戲修復的澄清。儘管存在這樣的爭論，但成為100級的首千名玩家這個共同目標，仍激發玩家的決心，確保他們在崇敬的暴雪莉莉絲雕像上有一席之地。 Reference article: 1. https://kotaku.com/diablo-iv-4-blizzard-lilith-hardcore-statue-release-1850490741 2. https://za.ign.com/diablo-iv/176856/news/diablo-4-player-hits-level-100-with-a-hardcore-character-playing-solo

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments Topic: Drinking any amount of alcohol causes damage to the brain There is no such thing as a "safe" level of drinking, with increased consumption of alcohol associated with poorer brain health, according to a new study. 根據一項新研究，沒有所謂的「安全」飲酒量，飲酒量增加與大腦健康狀況較差有關。 In an observational study, which has not yet been peer-reviewed, researchers from the University of Oxford studied the relationship between the self-reported alcohol intake of some 25,000 people in the UK, and their brain scans. 在一項尚未經過同行評審的觀察性研究中，牛津大學的研究人員，研究英國約2萬5000人報告的飲酒量，和與他們的大腦掃描圖像之間的關係。 The researchers noted that drinking had an effect on the brain’s gray matter － regions in the brain that make up "important bits where information is processed," according to lead author Anya Topiwala, a senior clinical researcher at Oxford. 研究人員指出，飲酒對大腦的灰質有影響，灰質是構成「重要資訊處理位元」的大腦部位，牛津大學高級臨床研究員托皮瓦拉說。 The team also investigated whether certain drinking patterns, beverage types and other health conditions made a difference to the impact of alcohol on brain health. 研究團隊還調查了特定的飲酒習慣、酒精飲料類型和其他健康狀況，是否會改變酒精對大腦健康的影響程度。 Next Article Topic: Scientists have taught bees to smell the coronavirus 科學家教導蜜蜂嗅出冠狀病毒 Scientists in the Netherlands have trained bees to identify COVID-19 through their sense of smell, according to a press release from Wageningen University. 瓦赫寧恩大學發布新聞稿聲稱，荷蘭科學家已訓練蜜蜂透過嗅覺，識別2019冠狀病毒病（COVID-19，武漢肺炎）。 The research was conducted on more than 150 bees in Wageningen University’s bio-veterinary research laboratory. 這項研究是在瓦赫寧恩大學生物獸醫研究實驗室對150多隻蜜蜂進行的。 The scientists trained the bees by giving them a treat — a sugar-water solution — every time they were exposed to the scent of a mink infected with COVID-19. Each time the bees were exposed to a non-infected sample, they wouldn’t get a reward. 科學家透過獎勵糖水溶液來訓練蜜蜂，每次蜜蜂在聞到感染COVID-19的貂身上氣味時，都會獲得獎勵。如果蜜蜂聞到的是沒被感染病毒的氣味樣本，則不會獲得獎勵。 Eventually, the bees could identify an infected sample within a few seconds — and would then stick out their tongues like clockwork to collect the sugar water. 最終，這些蜜蜂可以在幾秒鐘內識別出感染的樣本，而且牠們的舌頭會像發條一樣，伸出來吸取糖水。 Bees aren’t the first animals to detect COVID-19 by scent. Researchers have also trained dogs to distinguish between positive and negative COVID-19 samples from human saliva or sweat with fairly high levels of accuracy. 蜜蜂不是第一種透過氣味識別COVID-19的動物。研究人員也曾訓練狗區分來自人類唾液或汗液的陽性和陰性COVID-19樣本 ，準確率相當高。 Topic: Whale of a time: NYC offers walk-up vaccinations for all Appointments are no longer mandatory at any of the coronavirus vaccination sites run by New York City, including its newest and maybe coolest location： beneath the giant blue whale at the Museum of Natural History. 任何紐約市設立的新型冠狀病毒疫苗接種處，不再強制要求預約，包括最新設立、或許也是最酷的地點：位於自然歷史博物館巨大藍鯨下的接種處。 Mayor Bill de Blasio announced Friday that the city will now be accepting walk-ins at all its vaccination sites. "You can just walk up and get vaccinated," he said. 市長白思豪週五宣布，該市所有接種站現在接受隨到隨登記接種，「你可以直接進來接種疫苗」。 The expansion of walk-in service comes as supplies of the vaccine have increased. 擴大實施現場登記接種，是在疫苗供應量已經增加之際推出。 Just weeks ago, most people trying to get an appointment for a vaccination in the nation’s biggest city had to game online appointment systems in which scarce slots would be snapped up in moments. 僅在數週之前，在這個全美最大城市，大多數要預約接種時間的人還得在網路預約系統上賭運氣，稀少的名額一下子就會被搶光。 Next Article Topic: Serbian diner thanks those getting COVID shots with plates of roast meat （感謝客人打新冠疫苗 塞爾維亞餐館請吃烤肉） Get a COVID-19 vaccine and you will be served a plate of spit-roast ox or wild game goulash for free - in the Serbian city of Kragujevac. 塞爾維亞「米盧廷圖書館」餐廳招待接種疫苗的顧客吃牛肉大餐。（路透資料照） 在塞爾維亞克拉古耶瓦茨，只要接種新冠肺炎疫苗，就能免費獲得一盤烤牛肉串或野味燉牛肉。 Restaurateur Stavro Raskovic offered the popular local dishes as his way of promoting vaccination and campaigning for the full reopening of the country’s restaurants, cafes and bars. 餐館老闆斯塔夫羅．拉斯科維奇端出這2道受歡迎的本地菜餚，作為推廣疫苗及推動該國餐廳、咖啡廳、酒吧全面重新營業的方式。 Lockdowns in 2020 and partial restrictions this year have driven Biblioteka kod Milutina (Milutin’s Library) restaurant to the brink of closure, he said. 他說，2020年的封城及今年的局部封鎖措施，讓「米盧廷圖書館」餐廳瀕臨停業。 "Our trade, catering, has been particularly hit... and if this (vaccination) is the way out, then we wanted to contribute." 「我們的生意、外燴服務尤其受到影響…若這（疫苗）是解決方法，我們想要出一份力。」 Local health authorities turned the restaurant into a vaccination point to deliver shots made by Pfizer/BioNtech, and China’s Sinopharm. 當地衛生當局把餐廳變成疫苗接種點，提供輝瑞／BNT疫苗和中國國藥集團疫苗。 "Today we have vaccines from both East and West on the menu, to everybody’s taste," said Raskovic. 拉斯科維奇說：「今天我們的菜單上有來自東方和西方的疫苗，任君挑選。」 Next Article Topic: Dracula’s castle’ offers tourists Covid shots 「德古拉的城堡」提供觀光客武漢肺炎疫苗接種 Visitors to Romania’s forbidding Bran Castle are being jabbed with needles rather than vampiric fangs this weekend in a coronavirus vaccination drive. 造訪羅馬尼亞令人生畏的布蘭城堡的遊客，在本週末的冠狀病毒疫苗接種活動中，將會被針頭而不是吸血鬼的毒牙扎刺。 Those who take the jab are handed a certificate hailing their＂boldness and responsibility＂promising they will be welcome at the c

歡迎留言告訴我你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments Phrases for talking on the phone What can I do for you? 有什麼可以幫到你的 Hi Ted! This is Charlotte. What can I do for you? Instead of saying “What do you want?,” asking “What can I do for you?” is a polite way to ask why the speaker is calling. I’m trying to reach… 我想聯絡 Hello, this is Priya. I’m trying to reach Gill from Human Resources. This phrase comes across as less demanding than asking, “Where is Gill from Human Resources?” or “I want to talk to…”. I didn’t quite catch that 請再說一遍 I didn’t quite catch that; would you mind repeating what you just said? If you tell someone, “I didn’t quite catch that,” they will understand you didn’t hear them and usually repeat themselves more slowly and clearly. Phrases for communicating over email I’m reaching out because… 這封信是 Hello, Lei! I’m reaching out because I have a business proposal for you. Starting out an email with “I’m reaching out because…” is a polite, efficient way to explain why you’re sending the email. Of course, it doesn’t hurt to add “Hope all is well” or another friendlier greeting if you are already familiar with the person you’re emailing. I’ll get back to you 晚點回覆你 I’ll get back to you about that report as soon as I finish the project with Mia! If you say, “I’ll get back to you,” the other person will understand that you are busy now, but you will take the time to help them out as soon as you can. I just wanted to follow up… 我想跟進 Hi Veronica! I just wanted to follow up on that email I sent last Monday… Beginning an email by stating, “I just wanted to follow up,” politely reminds the recipient they haven’t yet responded to your last message. Bluntly asking, “Did you see my last email?” or “Is there a reason you didn’t answer my email from last Thursday?” might offend people. 分享時間:What do you think are the best English phrases to use in a workplace?Pick 4 words and make sentences

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments 每日英語跟讀 Ep.K594: Bowser's Age Revealed: The Youthful King of Koopas Nintendo recently unveiled an intriguing fact about one of the most iconic video game villains of all time: Bowser, the notorious antagonist in the Super Mario Bros. franchise, is officially confirmed to be 34 years old. Despite relentlessly pursuing Mario and his companions since 1985, Bowser's age has remained a mystery until now, surprising fans with his relative youthfulness. 任天堂最近公開了一個有趣的消息：庫巴，超級瑪利歐兄弟系列中最惡名昭著的反派，正式確定年齡為34歲。儘管自1985年以來一直無情地追逐瑪利歐及其夥伴，但庫巴的年齡謎底直到現在才揭曉，令粉絲們對他的年輕感到驚訝。 In an amusing YouTube video released by Nintendo of America, the company cleverly disclosed Bowser's age while providing instructions for creating a Nintendo Account. The video, still unlisted at the time, features Bowser himself, playfully demonstrating the process of setting up a Nintendo Account. As part of the demonstration, users are required to enter their birthdates to verify that they are at least 18 years old. Nintendo used Bowser as an example, revealing his birthdate as February 5, 1989, precisely establishing his age at 34 years old. It's remarkable to think that this turtle dragon has been menacing Mario, his friends, and Princess Peach for nearly four decades, despite his relatively young age. 任天堂美國分公司在一部有趣的YouTube影片中介紹了創建任天堂帳戶的指南，並同時巧妙地透露了庫巴的年齡。這部影片直到現在仍是未公開發佈的狀態，其內容為庫巴大王本人，愉快地示範設置任天堂帳戶的過程。作為示範的一部分，用戶需要輸入自己的出生日期以驗證至少18歲。任天堂用庫巴做為例子，透露他的出生日期為1989年2月5日，確立了他的年齡為34歲。令人驚訝的是，這只龜龍在相對年輕的情況下對抗瑪利歐、他的朋友和公主桃子已經近四十年了。 Nintendo didn't stop at divulging Bowser's age; they also revealed the canonical age of his only son, Bowser Jr. When setting up a Nintendo Account for a child, Bowser Jr.'s birthdate is designated as March 3, 2010, making him 13 years old. The revelation of Bowser Jr.'s teenage status, rather than the perpetual child he has always appeared to be, adds an amusing twist to his character. It's difficult to imagine Bowser Jr. undergoing the typical changes associated with adolescence—growth spurts, a deeper voice, and the onset of acne—since we've never witnessed these developments in the game. 任天堂並沒有止步於透露庫巴的年齡；他們還透露了他唯一兒子庫巴二世的正式年齡。在為兒童設置任天堂帳戶時，庫巴二世的出生日期被設定為2010年3月3日，使他年齡為13歲。小庫巴作為一個青少年的身份揭示出來，而不是他外觀看起來固定的寶寶形象，為他的角色增添了一個有趣的轉折。很難想像小庫巴會經歷青春期相關的典型變化—生長速度加快、聲音變低、出現青春痘—因為我們從未在遊戲中見證過這些變化。 For those curious about the ages of other beloved characters from the Super Mario Bros. series, Shigeru Miyamoto, the creator of the franchise, shared in a 2005 interview that Mario and Luigi are approximately 24 or 25 years old. Astonishingly, this revelation implies that the beloved plumber brothers are twins, sharing the same age. Alongside the newfound knowledge about Bowser and Bowser Jr.'s age and the surprising revelation of Mario and Luigi being twins, the Super Mario Bros. universe continues to captivate audiences with its timeless charm and endless mysteries. 對於對超級瑪利歐兄弟系列中其他受喜愛的角色的年齡感到好奇的人來說，該系列的創造者宮本茂在2005年的一次訪談中透露，瑪利歐和路易吉的年齡大約在24到25歲之間。令人驚訝的是，這個消息意味著這對受喜愛的水管工兄弟是雙胞胎，同齡。隨著對庫巴父子年齡的新發現以及瑪利歐和路易吉是雙胞胎這點令人意外的揭密，超級瑪利歐兄弟的世界以其永恆的魅力和無盡的神秘繼續吸引著觀眾。Reference article: https://www.ign.com/articles/bowser-is-canonically-34-years-old

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments 每日英語跟讀 Ep.K593: Man Charged with Theft of Judy Garland's Ruby Slippers from "The Wizard of Oz" A man has been charged with stealing a pair of famous ruby red slippers worn by Judy Garland in the movie "The Wizard of Oz," according to federal prosecutors in North Dakota. The slippers were stolen in 2005 but were recovered in a 2018 FBI operation. However, no arrests were made at that time. 根據北達科他州的聯邦檢察官所說，一名男子被指控偷走了電影《綠野仙蹤》中茱蒂·嘉蘭（Judy Garland）所穿的著名紅寶石鞋。這雙鞋子於2005年被盜，並在2018年聯邦調查局的一次行動中被找回，但當時沒有逮捕任何人。 The suspect, Terry Martin, was indicted for theft of a valuable artwork. Martin, who is 76 years old and lives near the Judy Garland Museum in Minnesota, did not provide any further information about himself, and there is currently no information about his legal representation. When approached by the media, he declined to comment and mentioned that he would face trial. 嫌犯泰瑞·馬丁（Terry Martin）因竊取貴重藝術品而被起訴。馬丁現年76歲，居住在明尼蘇達州靠近茱蒂·嘉蘭博物館的地方，他沒有提供有關自己的進一步信息，目前也沒有關於他的法律代表的信息。當媒體詢問時，他拒絕發表評論，並提到將面臨審判。 The stolen ruby slippers were worn by Judy Garland during the production of the musical in 1939. Only four pairs of authentic slippers from the movie are known to exist. At the time of the theft, the slippers were insured for $1 million, but their current market value is estimated to be around $3.5 million. The slippers were on loan to the Judy Garland Museum when they were stolen, and the thief broke the display case by climbing through a window. 這雙被偷的紅寶石鞋是茱蒂·嘉蘭在1939年音樂劇製作中穿的。目前僅知道電影中存在四雙鞋子。在被盗時，這雙鞋子的保險金額為100萬美元，但其目前市值估計約為350萬美元。這些鞋子當時正借給茱蒂·嘉蘭博物館展出，而偷竊者爬窗潛入並破壞了展示櫃。 The recovery of the stolen slippers came about when a man contacted the slippers' insurer in 2017, claiming that he could help return them. Following an extensive investigation, the FBI seized the slippers in Minneapolis in July 2018. No arrests or charges were made at that time. Terry Martin has now been summoned, and his initial court appearance is scheduled for June 1 via video conference. Further details about the case have not been provided by the U.S. Justice Department in North Dakota. 鞋子尋回則是在2017年時，一名男子聯繫了保險公司，聲稱可以幫助將其歸還。經過廣泛調查，FBI於2018年7月在明尼亞波利斯市查獲這雙鞋子。當時並未逮捕或起訴任何人。泰瑞·馬丁現在已被傳喚，他的首次出庭將於6月1日進行視訊會議。北達科他州美國司法部目前並未提供有關此案的進一步細節。 The ruby slippers are famous for their association with the iconic line from "The Wizard of Oz" when Dorothy, played by Judy Garland, clicks her heels together and says, "There's no place like home." The slippers are made from various materials, including wood pulp, silk thread, gelatin, plastic, and glass. Most of the vibrant ruby color comes from sequins, while the bows on the shoes feature red glass beads. 這雙紅寶石鞋因與《綠野仙蹤》中的關鍵台詞相關而聞名，該台詞是由茱蒂·嘉蘭飾演的桃樂絲所說：“沒有比家更好的地方。”鞋子由各種材料製成，包括木漿、絲線、明膠、塑膠和玻璃。大部分鮮豔的紅寶石顏色來自亮片，而鞋子上的蝴蝶結則用紅色玻璃珠裝飾。 Apart from the stolen pair, three other pairs of ruby slippers worn by Garland in the movie are held by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the Smithsonian, and a private collector. After the legal proceedings conclude, the staff at the Judy Garland Museum hope to bring the slippers back to Garland's hometown and display them as part of their exhibition. 除了被盗的這雙鞋子，其他三雙嘉蘭在電影中穿過的紅寶石鞋分別由美國影藝學院、史密森尼學會和一名私人收藏家擁有。在法律訴訟結束後，茱蒂·嘉蘭博物館的工作人員希望將這些鞋子帶回嘉蘭的故鄉，作為展覽的一部分。Reference article: https://apnews.com/article/solen-ruby-slippers-wizard-of-oz-5d142469ad5f052f6af053d20dbf20c4

歡迎留言告訴我你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments Godiva 巧克力 Godiva品牌源自1926年比利時的布魯塞爾，從一個小攤販起家。1960年代起從歐洲市場進入美國，直至今日，Godiva 在美國、加拿大、歐洲和亞洲擁有並經營 600 多家商店，並通過 10,000 多家專業零售商銷售。 Godiva這個名字其實源自於一個傳說人物叫做 Lady godiva，他是中世紀英格蘭伯爵的妻子。當時百姓生活並不好過，伯爵不僅沒有苦民所苦，還變本加厲地增加了百姓們的稅收，使得人民生活更加苦不堪言。 眼看人民生活品質越來越差，Lady godiva的惻隱之心開始隱隱作痛，於是她懇求自己的伯爵老公能夠減免稅收，讓百姓好過一點。一開始伯爵不以為然，始終將Lady Godiva的建議視為耳邊風，後來因為受不了她多次請求，伯爵竟然朝著自己的妻子大吼：「夠了，想要減免百姓稅收的話，你只要裸體騎馬，在市區繞行一圈，我就答應你的請求！」 原以為這樣的說法，可以勸退自己的妻子，誰知Lady Godiva當天晚上，就派人傳消息告知百姓，她明天將會答應伯爵的要求，裸體騎馬上街，但為了顧及隱私，請大家緊閉門窗，不要偷開。隔天一早，Lady Godiva跨上馬匹，僅靠她的秀麗長髮遮蓋上半身，獨自一人上街繞行。 大部分的百姓都遵守與她的規定，伯爵為了信守承諾，最終減免了稅收。然而，Godiva繞行時，有一個好色的裁縫師Tom，從門縫偷看著裸體的Godiva，沒想到就在Tom偷窺的同時，他的雙眼竟然失明了，這段故事後來也延伸出了Pepping Tom的用法，意思就是偷窺狂。 It's typically pronounced in English-speaking countries as "goh-DYE-vah." However, in Belgium where it was founded, it's pronounced as "goh-DEE-vah." Godiva Chocolatier is a Belgian manufacturer of chocolates and related products. The company was founded in 1926 in Brussels, Belgium, by the Draps family, who crafted their chocolates in the back of their small shop. They named the company after Lady Godiva, an Anglo-Saxon noblewoman who, according to legend, rode naked through the streets of Coventry, England, in order to gain a remission of the oppressive taxation imposed by her husband on his tenants. Lady Godiva's story was an inspiration to the brand due to her boldness and generosity, traits they aspired to capture in their chocolates. In the 1960s, Godiva was appointed an official chocolatier to the Royal Court of Belgium. This high honor served as a testament to the high quality and craftsmanship of Godiva's chocolates. Godiva chocolates made their way to the United States in 1966 and opened their first boutique in North America on New York's fashionable Fifth Avenue. They have since expanded to more than 80 countries around the world and are recognized for their premium chocolates and elegant packaging. Versace 凡賽斯 成立於1978年的義大利米蘭，時尚之都。該品牌採取的是華麗的圖案設計以及鮮豔的配色，創辦人叫做Gianni Versace，他接觸到服裝設計，是因為母親本身就是裁縫師，據說Gianni 9歲的時候，就自己設計出一件藍色的晚禮服了，據說有次黛安娜王妃出席活動的服裝，就是以那件晚禮服的基礎，再重新設計出來的。 該品牌的主力商品是服飾類以及皮革類的商品，後來才延伸出了香水、珠寶跟其他首飾。Versace的Logo設計，靈感來自蛇髮美人 – 梅杜莎，因此部分圖騰的設計，也參考了希臘神話的成分。Versace給人的品牌印象是用色大膽、前衛而且也跟梅杜莎一樣有性感的成分，創辦人也希望人們可以像看見梅杜莎一樣，會忍不住想要一直欣賞。 Versace is an Italian word and it's pronounced in Italian as "vair-SAH-chee". However, in English-speaking countries, it is commonly pronounced as "vur-SAH-see" or "vur-SAY-see". Versace is an Italian luxury fashion company and trade name that was established by Gianni Versace in 1978. Versace was born in Reggio Calabria, Italy, and gained an interest in fashion from his mother, who was a dressmaker. Versace's innovative and provocative style quickly gained popularity and made a significant impact on the fashion industry. His designs often referenced art history and were characterized by vibrant colors, bold prints, and sexy cuts. Unfortunately, Gianni Versace was tragically murdered in 1997. Montblanc 萬寶龍 於1906年的德國柏林成立，公司最有名的產品就是鋼筆，鋼筆於20世紀初期開始大量出現，不少人投入生產研發。進入1910年代，萬寶龍的品牌名稱才終於確立，也是從這時候開始，他們的能見度逐漸提升，之所以會選用伯朗峰（Mont blanc）作為品牌名稱的靈感，是為了強調品牌卓越的願景如山一樣高，以及製筆上對性能、創新和精密技術的追求。1930年代，產品更從鋼筆，拓展到皮革配件、錶帶等等 1997年還發展出了手錶系列，等於是拓展了其他男性配件的市場。1998年，萬寶龍被瑞士歷峰集團收購，並與卡地亞、蔻伊等奢侈品牌成為同伴。根據網路上我查到的資料，萬寶龍最貴的一枝鋼筆，泰姬瑪哈陵限量版鋼筆，要之所以那麼貴，不外乎鋼筆上的各種寶石，包含鑽石、藍寶石、紅寶石等等，泰姬瑪哈陵系列總共有三隻，分別叫做月之淚、黑色神話以及權力，致敬的是蓋出泰姬瑪哈陵的蒙兀兒王朝 這三隻基本上都是兩百萬美元起跳的，折合台幣來說，至少都是6、7千萬元，貧窮限制了我的想像。 Montblanc is pronounced "mon-blahn," with a silent "c" at the end. The name is French and means "white mountain," again referencing the Alpine peak. Montblanc is a German company known for its high-quality luxury goods, including writing instruments, watches, jewelry, eyewear, leather goods, and perfumes. The company was founded by stationer Claus-Johannes Voss, banker Alfred Nehemias, and engineer August Eberstein in 1906. The company's first model was the Rouge et Noir in 1909. In 1910, the pen model that gave the company its name, Montblanc, was released. The Montblanc name was chosen to symbolize the high quality and craftsmanship of their products, as it was inspired by the highest peak in the Alps, Mont Blanc, a symbol of the highest standards of quality. Montblanc's most famous product is arguably the Meisterstück (Masterpiece) line of writing instruments, introduced in 1924. These pens have become iconic and are known for their distinctive white six-pointed logo, which represents the snow-capped peak of Mont Blanc.

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments 每日英語跟讀 Ep.K592: Taipei MRT to Introduce Korean-language Announcements and Expand Japanese-language Services The Taipei Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system is set to enhance its services for international tourists by introducing Korean-language station announcements at 15 of its busiest stops. The Taipei Rapid Transit Corp (TRTC) announced this development on Tuesday, in response to the increasing number of South Korean tourists visiting Taiwan. 台北大眾捷運公司（TRTC）於本周二宣布，為了提供更好的國際旅客服務，捷運系統計劃在其最繁忙的15個車站引入韓文車站廣播，以應對訪台韓國旅客人數的增加。 According to statistics compiled by the Tourism Bureau, South Korea has become the second-largest source of travelers to Taiwan after Japan. Between 2018 and March of this year, approximately 2.14 million South Koreans visited the nation. In light of these figures, TRTC has decided to record Korean station announcements for the 15 most-popular stops on the Taipei MRT system. 根據旅遊局統計數據，韓國已成為繼日本之後對台灣旅遊人數的第二大來源。從2018年到今年三月，約有214萬名韓國人訪問了台灣。鑑於這些數字，台北大眾捷運公司決定在台北捷運系統的15個熱門車站錄製韓文車站廣播。 The selected stops for the Korean-language announcements include Taipei Main Station, Zhongshan, Dongmen, Taipei 101/World Trade Center, Tamsui, Ximen, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, Minquan West Road, Songjiang Nanjing, Zhongxiao Xinsheng, Guting, Nanjing Fuxing, Zhongxiao Fuxing, Daan, and Nangang Exhibition Center. Furthermore, TRTC has also expanded the number of stops with Japanese-language announcements from 13 to 21. 這些韓文廣播的選定車站包括台北車站、中山站、東門站、台北101/世貿中心站、淡水站、西門站、中正紀念堂站、民權西路站、松江南京站、忠孝新生站、古亭站、南京復興站、忠孝復興站、大安站和南港展覽館站。此外，台北大眾捷運公司還將日文車站廣播的數量從13個擴大到21個。 Japan continues to be a significant contributor to Taiwan's tourism industry, with around 3.4 million Japanese visitors recorded between 2018 and March. The additional eight stops that will feature Japanese-language announcements are Minquan West Road, Songjiang Nanjing, Zhongxiao Xinsheng, Guting, Nanjing Fuxing, Zhongxiao Fuxing, Daan, and Nangang Exhibition Center. The implementation of both the Korean and Japanese announcements is expected to be completed by the end of August, with gradual rollouts planned. 日本繼續是台灣旅遊業的重要貢獻者，2018年至今年三月間約有340萬名日本遊客來台。這八個新增的日文廣播車站包括民權西路站、松江南京站、忠孝新生站、古亭站、南京復興站、忠孝復興站、大安站和南港展覽館站。預計韓文和日文廣播將於八月底完成實施，並進行逐步推出。 In addition to these language services, TRTC emphasizes its commitment to providing visual stop displays in both Chinese and English. This effort aims to enhance the convenience and accessibility of the Taipei MRT system for international visitors. The company also expressed its dedication to continuously improving services for tourists by gathering and analyzing tourist statistics. TRTC's ultimate goal is to offer announcements in Mandarin, followed by foreign languages such as English, Japanese, and Korean, as well as the local languages of Hoklo (commonly known as Taiwanese) and Hakka. 除了語言服務之外，台北大眾捷運公司還強調將提供中文和英文的視覺顯示車站指南，旨在提高國際旅客使用台北捷運系統的便利性和可訪問性。該公司還表示通過收集和分析旅遊統計數據，致力於不斷改善旅客服務。台北大眾捷運公司的最終目標是提供國語廣播，然後是英文、日文、韓文以及台語（又稱福佬話）和客家話等當地語言。 Overall, these language additions and enhancements to the Taipei MRT system are expected to cater to the diverse needs of international tourists, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable travel experience in Taiwan's capital city. 總之，這些語言增設和改進措施將滿足國際旅客的多樣化需求，確保他們在台灣首都的旅行體驗更加順暢和愉快。Reference article: https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2023/06/08/2003801205

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments 每日英語跟讀 Ep.K591: EVA Air Ranks Eighth in Airline Excellence Awards EVA Airways, the leading Taiwanese carrier, has been recognized as the eighth-best airline in the world in this year's Airline Excellence Awards. The prestigious ranking, evaluated by AirlineRatings.com, marks EVA Air as the sole Taiwanese airline to secure a position among the top 25. Utilizing a comprehensive seven-star rating system, AirlineRatings.com assesses over 360 airlines worldwide annually, providing an objective measure of airline excellence. In an official statement released on Thursday, EVA Airways expressed their delight in receiving this recognition, attributing it to the collective efforts of their dedicated staff. 台灣的領頭航空公司長榮，在今年的最佳航空公司大獎中被列為全球第八位的航空公司。這一傑出的評比由AirlineRatings.com評估，使長榮航空成為唯一入選前25名的台灣航空公司。AirlineRatings.com利用一套全面的七星評級系統，每年評估全球超過360家航空公司，提供客觀的航空公司卓越評估。長榮航空在上週四發表的正式聲明中對此次獲得的認可表示高興，並將此歸功於全體員工的共同努力。 Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, EVA Airways remained committed to enhancing and personalizing the travel experience for passengers. The company proactively identified and implemented various services and procedures aimed at augmenting customer satisfaction. Leveraging cutting-edge technology, EVA Airways introduced convenient features like automatic check-in and digital onboard reading materials such as newspapers and magazines. Furthermore, the airline collaborated with Michelin-rated chefs to curate new inflight meals, ensuring a culinary experience of the highest standard for passengers. 儘管面臨COVID-19疫情帶來的挑戰，長榮航空仍致力於提升和訂製個人化的乘客旅行體驗。該公司積極識別和實施各種旨在提升客戶滿意度的服務和程序。利用尖端技術，長榮航空引入了便利的功能，如自動報到機和數位化機上讀物，如報紙和雜誌。此外，該航空公司還與米其林星級廚師合作，精心設計了全新的機上餐飲，為乘客提供最高水準的美食體驗。 AirlineRatings.com's rankings for the best airlines of the year placed Air New Zealand in the top spot, followed closely by Qatar Airways and Etihad Airways in second and third place, respectively. EVA Airways secured the eighth position, sharing the accolades with other renowned carriers such as Korean Air, Singapore Airlines, and Qantas. The list also included esteemed airlines like Cathay Pacific Airways, Emirates, and Lufthansa/Swiss, among others. The Airline Excellence Awards, judged by a panel of five editors with a cumulative industry experience of 180 years, takes into account various factors such as safety and government audits, fleet age, passenger reviews, profitability, investment rating, product offerings, and staff relations. AirlineRatings.com對今年最佳航空公司的排名將紐西蘭航空排名第一，緊隨其後的是卡達航空和阿提哈德航空，分別排名第二和第三。長榮航空位居第八位，與其他著名航空公司如大韓航空、新加坡航空和澳洲航空共享此殊榮。該榜單還包括著名航空公司如國泰航空、阿聯酋航空和瑞士航空。最佳航空公司大獎由五位擁有累計180年行業經驗的編輯評審，考慮了安全和政府審核、機隊年齡、乘客評論、盈利能力、投資評級、產品提供和員工關係等多個因素。 In addition to its recent recognition in the Airline Excellence Awards, EVA Airways achieved a notable milestone last month. The airline was certified as a five-star airline for the eighth consecutive year by Skytrax, an esteemed airline-ranking company. EVA Airways also secured a position among the top 20 safest airlines globally in a survey conducted by AirlineRatings.com in January. These accolades further solidify EVA Airways' commitment to excellence and their dedication to providing a safe, enjoyable, and personalized travel experience for passengers. 除了最近在最佳航空公司大獎的認可外，長榮航空在上個月還實現了一個值得留意的里程碑。這家航空公司被著名的航空排名公司Skytrax連續第八年認證為五星級航空公司。此外，長榮航空還在AirlineRatings.com於一月份進行的調查中脫穎而出，成為全球最安全的20家航空公司之一。這些殊榮進一步鞏固了長榮航空對卓越的承諾，以及為乘客提供安全、愉悅和個人化旅行體驗的奉獻精神。Reference article: https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2023/06/03/2003800913

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments Topic: Filipino salon owner uses own hair to create portraits Every few months when Jesstoni Garcia takes electric clippers to his head, he’s not just giving himself a haircut, he’s also harvesting art materials. 每隔數月，當傑斯托尼‧賈西亞拿電剪推自己的頭時，不僅在為自己理髮，也在收集藝術材料。 Using a thin brush and clear, sticky resin, the co-owner of a Manila hair salon sprinkles these strands and clippings on a blank canvas, taking two to five hours to arrange them into striking images of musicians and actors. 這名馬尼拉一家美髮沙龍的共同老闆，用細刷子和透明、富黏性的樹脂，把剪下來的髮絲刷在空白的畫布上，再花2至5小時調整成惹人注目的音樂家和演員肖像。 The 32-year-old’s main job as a seaman involves spending up to eight months a year on cruise ships, and lacking adequate art supplies like paint and sketchpads at sea, Garcia in 2021 turned to using his own hair to create images. He started with self-portraits and eventually moved on to depicting celebrities. 32歲的賈西亞本職是航海員，一年有多達8個月在遊輪上，航海期間欠缺顏料和畫板等藝術材料，所以在2021年轉而用自己的頭髮創作肖像。他從自畫像著手，逐漸開始描繪名人。 Next Article Topic: Top Philippine presidential candidates oppose legalising divorce 菲律賓主要總統候選人反對離婚合法化 The Philippines looks likely to remain one of the few countries where divorce is illegal, based on a survey of the four leading presidential candidates on Sunday. 根據週日一項針對排名領先的4名總統候選人進行的調查顯示，菲律賓看起來可能仍是離婚違法的極少數國家之一。 Vice President Jejomar Binay, Senator Grace Poe, veteran mayor Rodrigo Duterte and former interior secretary Mar Roxas were asked during a presidential debate to raise their hands if they favoured legalisation of divorce. 副總統畢乃、參議員柏吾、經歷豐富的市長杜特爾特，以及前內政部長羅哈斯，在總統候選人辯論會上被要求，若支持離婚合法化則舉手。 Not one raised a hand in the brief segment. They were not given time to explain their stance. 在這簡短片段中無人舉手，他們也沒獲得時間解釋立場。 The overwhelmingly Catholic Philippines is the only country aside from the Vatican that bans divorce. 絕大多數人口為天主教徒的菲律賓，是梵蒂岡以外唯一禁止離婚的國家。 Strong pressure from the Catholic church has stymied previous attempts to pass a divorce law even though a survey last year showed that about 60 percent of adult Filipinos support such a measure. 來自天主教教會的強大壓力，阻礙了此前試圖通過離婚法的努力，即使去年一項調查顯示，約60％菲律賓成人支持這類措施亦然。 In another portion of the debate, the four candidates were asked who supported restoration of the death penalty. 在辯論會的另一部分，4名候選人被問及誰支持恢復死刑。 Poe and Duterte, who openly boasts about killing criminals, both raised their hands despite the Catholic church’s opposition to capital punishment. 公開讚揚處決罪犯的柏吾與杜特爾特舉起手，儘管天主教會反對死刑。 The death penalty was abolished in the Philippines in 2006, partly due to lobbying by the church. 2006年菲律賓廢除死刑，部分原因在於教會的遊說。Source article: https://features.ltn.com.tw/english/article/paper/1529737 ; https://news.ltn.com.tw/news/world/paper/971329 Next Article Topic: Growing ‘mermaiding’ subculture makes a splash There was a pivotal moment in Queen Pangke Tabora’s life that eclipsed all others: It was the moment, she says, when she first slid her legs into a mermaid tail. 在潘奇．塔波拉皇后的生命中，有一個關鍵時刻令其它時刻都黯然失色：她說，就是當她第一次把雙腳滑進一個美人魚尾巴的時刻。 For the transgender Filipina woman approaching middle age, seeing her legs encased in vibrant, scaly-looking neoprene three years ago was the realization of a childhood dream. And it marked the beginning of her immersion into a watery world where she would find acceptance. 對這位即將步入中年的菲律賓跨性別女性來說，三年前看到她的雙腿被包覆在充滿活力、鱗片狀的紐普韌橡膠中，是兒時夢想的實現。代表著她開始沉浸在一個自己能夠獲得接受的水世界。 The former insurance company worker described the experience of gliding under water, half-human and half-fish, as “meditation in motion.”“The feeling was mermai-zing,”Tabora said one recent morning while lounging in a fiery red tail on a rocky beach south of Manila, where she now teaches mermaiding and freediving full-time. 這位保險公司前員工把在水下滑行、半人半魚的經驗描述成「運動中的冥想」。最近一個早晨在馬尼拉南方一處礁石海灘休息時，身著火紅魚尾服的塔波拉說，「這種美人魚的感覺太驚人了」，她在這裡全職教授如何像美人魚般游泳和自由潛水。 In recent years, a growing number have gleefully flocked to mermaid conventions and competitions, formed local groups called“pods,” launched mermaid magazines and poured their savings into a multimillion-dollar mermaid tail industry. 在最近幾年，越來越多人歡喜地湧向美人魚大會和競賽，形成各個叫做「pods」的地方團體，發行美人魚雜誌，把他們的積蓄投入這個價值數百萬美元的美人魚尾巴行業。 Next Article Philippine collector amasses super-sized collection of fast-food restaurant toys 菲律賓收藏家蒐集極大量速食餐廳玩具 From the age of 5, Filipino graphic artist Percival Lugue has had a passion for collecting toys from fast-food restaurant chains like McDonald’s, Burger King and home-country favorite Jollibee. 菲律賓平面設計師帕西瓦爾‧魯格，從5歲開始就滿腔熱血地蒐集麥當勞、漢堡王及當地人最愛的快樂蜂等速食連鎖餐廳的玩具。 Now, the 50-year-old has about 20,000 toys packed from floor to ceiling in his home and holds a Guinness World Record from 2014, when his collection reached more than 10,000 items. 現在，50歲的魯格擁有約2萬組玩具，在家裡從地板堆到天花板，且2014年起持續保持金氏世界紀錄，當時他收藏的玩具已超過1萬組。 Lugue built his home especially to house his collection. He likens the excitement that getting new toys gives him to Christmas morning. "The toy is like a storyteller in itself." 魯格蓋了自己的房子就是為了放藏品，他把得到新玩具的興奮感比擬成耶誕節早晨，「玩具本身就像個說故事的人。」 While most of his toys were obtained throu

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments 跟讀練習文章： Up Young Cornerstone Corp: Exclusive Agent for Mitsubishi's Air Conditioning, Promoting Energy-Saving Chillers for Commercial and Residential Use In a bold move marking a significant partnership in the air conditioning industry, Taiwan's Up Young Cornerstone Corp (stock code 6728) has announced exclusive agency rights to residential and commercial products of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Air Conditioning, a top-tier Japanese manufacturer. This strategic partnership signals a step-change in the delivery of cutting-edge, energy-efficient cooling solutions, particularly amidst rising global energy costs and a heightened focus on carbon neutrality. 上洋產業獨家代理日本三菱重工空調 再推節能65%冰水機 從商辦到家用 領先業界服務標準 全方位迎接淨零商機 台灣空調及商用洗衣代理領導廠商上洋產業（以下簡稱「上洋」，股票代碼6728）宣布取得日本頂尖品牌三菱重工空調家用、商用產品獨家代理權，除一般家庭、商辦較常使用的氣冷式空調設備外，能為大型廠辦與集合式建築提供製冷需求的水冷離心式冰水機組也在代言人林志玲的介紹下首次以AR科技的方式亮相，宣示上洋產業與三菱重工空調在台灣電價持續上漲、全球吹起減碳淨零的號角時，將持續以最新的科技技術提供企業客戶與消費者生活，滿足企業商辦與家庭生活轉型的一切需求。 Mitsubishi's Rich Legacy and Superior Product Line Founded in 1884, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries has etched its name in the annals of global industry, renowned for its advanced technology and superior manufacturing techniques. Its range of high-end refrigeration and air conditioning products, all adhering to stringent energy-saving and environmental standards, are employed in world-famous landmarks such as Tokyo's Skytree, Malaysia's Petronas Twin Towers, and Singapore's Marina Bay. As part of the agency agreement, Up Young will expand its product line to include Mitsubishi's PAC, RAC, and VRF air-cooled AC systems, the new generation GART series chillers, and integrated heat source control systems. 東京晴空塔、馬來西亞雙子星塔指定採用 日本市佔第一 上洋產業獨家代理強勢登台 日本三菱重工創立於1884年，以生產火箭、航空器等國防工業的專業技術聞名於世，事業體涵蓋能源、建設、航太、交通運輸等領域。身為全球重工業製研的龍頭企業，三菱重工也結合各領域產品所蘊含的尖端技術及製造工藝，打造符合客戶與一般消費者需求甚至引領市場趨勢不同類型的高端製冷、空調產品，更以嚴格的世界級規格作為節能環保的標準，知名地標如東京晴空塔、馬來西亞雙子星塔、新加坡濱海灣等皆採用三菱重工能夠同時實現製冷與蓄冰多工運作的高效離心式冰水機設備；而取得三菱重工空調台灣獨家代理的上洋產業，除一般家庭商辦較常見的PAC、RAC、VRF等氣冷式空調設備外，亦引進新一代GART系列高效節能水冷離心式冰水機組與熱源綜合控制系統，以更完整的產品線提供客戶與消費者多樣化的製冷解決方案。 Up Youngs Unique Business Approach: Quality and Customer Satisfaction Boasting decades of in-depth experience in the commercial and home appliance sectors, Up Young sets itself apart by managing its services in-house, a rarity in the Taiwanese air conditioning industry. The company prides itself on its commitment to customer satisfaction, which is reflected in its broad product offerings, well-established service network, and incorporation of AR technology to enrich customer experience. 台灣在地專業服務ｘ日本重工業等級技術 領先業界標準為舒適生活提供創新、環保節能的解決方案 上洋於商用電器設備與家電產業中已深耕數十年，具有完整的且深厚的服務經驗與專業技術，也是台灣少數服務不委外的空調設備代理銷售商，對於代理產品也是經過嚴謹的使用性能評估後引進，除了大型高效離心式冰水機、一級能效家用商用的空調商品，今(2023)年第4季也將再擴充台灣消費者期待的除濕機產品；在銷售、保固、維修的服務網絡建置上也不斷推陳出新，除專業的服務人員外，也陸續加入如AR等新科技的互動體驗，力求提供所有客戶及消費者最佳的服務與生活體驗； Collaboration for the Future: Up Young’s Vision for Energy Efficiency and Consumer Comfort The partnership with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Air Conditioning equips Up Young with an impressive suite of products, empowering the company to continue to lead in service delivery. Through this partnership, Up Young is well-positioned to deliver on its mission: to ensure the comfort of consumers while offering energy-saving solutions that do not break the bank. As energy costs and environmental concerns continue to shape consumer choices, Up Young's innovative approach sets a new standard for the air conditioning industry. 三菱重工空調應用日本重工業等級技術的強悍產品力，讓上洋有信心在氣冷式空調設備維護設下3天內客服聯繫安排技師上門領先業界服務速度與品質的目標，除了讓消費者節能省電省荷包，在面對炎夏或寒冬也能夠安心的享受由三菱重工空調產品帶來舒適的生活空間，上洋將持續以在地的專業服務為所有客戶及消費者提供舒適生活的創新節能環保解決方案。

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments 每日英語跟讀 Ep.K590: Sam Altman, OpenAI CEO, Urges US Regulation of Artificial Intelligence Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI and the mastermind behind the advanced chatbot ChatGPT, has appealed to US lawmakers to implement regulations for artificial intelligence (AI). In his testimony before a US Senate committee, Altman emphasized the potential and risks associated with this emerging technology. With the rapid introduction of several AI models into the market, Altman proposed the establishment of a new agency responsible for licensing AI companies. OpenAI的CEO和高級聊天機器人ChatGPT的幕後功臣山姆·阿特曼（Sam Altman）呼籲美國立法者制定人工智慧（AI）的監管法規。他在美國參議院委員會的證詞中，阿特曼強調了這項新興技術的潛力和風險。隨著幾款AI模型迅速進入市場，阿特曼提議建立一個負責發放AI公司許可證的新機構。 Altman, a 38-year-old entrepreneur, has emerged as a prominent figure in the burgeoning AI industry. He has been vocal about addressing the ethical concerns raised by AI and has actively advocated for increased regulation. Recognizing the immense possibilities of AI, Altman also acknowledges its potential dangers. He believes that if misused, AI can have severe consequences, and therefore, OpenAI aims to collaborate with the government to prevent such occurrences. 38歲的企業家阿特曼在蓬勃發展的人工智慧產業中嶄露頭角。他一直在大聲疾呼，關注AI所帶來的道德問題，並積極主張加強監管。阿特曼深知AI的巨大可能性，也承認其潛在的危險。他認為如果AI被濫用，後果可能會十分嚴重，因此OpenAI致力於與政府合作，防止這種情況發生。 Altman also acknowledged the potential impact of AI on the economy, highlighting the possibility of job displacement in certain fields due to the adoption of AI technologies. He emphasized the need for clarity regarding these foreseeable changes and stressed that the government should proactively develop strategies to mitigate any negative effects. Despite these concerns, Altman remains optimistic about the future job opportunities that will arise as a result of AI advancements. 阿特曼還承認AI對經濟的潛在影響，強調由於採用AI技術，某些領域的工作可能會被取代。他強調需要釐清這些可以預見的變化，並強調政府應主動制定策略，以因應減輕任何負面影響。儘管有這些擔憂，阿特曼對未來AI進步所帶來的就業機會仍保持樂觀態度。 During the Senate committee hearing, Altman expressed his worries about the potential impact of AI on democracy. He specifically highlighted the use of AI to disseminate targeted misinformation during elections, emphasizing that it is one of his "areas of greatest concerns." Altman suggested that a new agency in the US should regulate the industry through a combination of licensing and testing requirements for AI companies, particularly those developing and releasing AI models with significant capabilities. Furthermore, he advocated for independent audits of companies like OpenAI. 在參議院委員會的聽證會上，阿特曼表達了他對AI向民主可能產生的潛在影響的擔憂。他特別強調了在選舉期間使用AI傳播有針對性的虛假信息，並強調這是他最擔憂的領域之一。阿特曼建議美國成立一個新機構，通過對AI公司實施許可和測試要求來監管該行業，尤其是那些開發和發布具有重大功能的AI模型的公司。此外，他主張對像OpenAI這樣的公司進行獨立稽核審查。 There was a consensus among senators that a new regulatory body is necessary to oversee the AI industry. However, the rapid pace of technological advancements led some legislators to question whether such an agency would be able to keep up effectively. Regardless, it is clear from the testimonies that both Republicans and Democrats support the implementation of regulations to maximize the benefits of AI while mitigating potential risks. As the debate continues, it is essential to strike a balance that fosters innovation and safeguards against the misuse of AI technologies. 參議員們一致認為，需要成立一個新的監管機構來監督人工智慧產業。然而，技術進步的迅速步伐使一些立法者質疑這樣一個機構是否能夠有效跟上。無論如何，從證詞中可以清楚看出，無論是共和黨還是民主黨都支持制定監管法規，以最大化人工智慧的優勢，同時減輕潛在風險。在辯論持續進行的同時，必須取得平衡，以促進創新並防止人工智慧技術的濫用。Reference article: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-65616866

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments 每日英語跟讀 Ep.K589: Japanese Prime Minister Invites TSMC Chairman for a Rare Meeting Taiwanese Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC) Chairman, Mark Liu, has received an invitation to meet with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in Japan. This meeting is particularly noteworthy as it is uncommon for top executives from major semiconductor companies worldwide to convene in a single location. TSMC confirmed Liu's attendance at the meeting but provided no further details. 台灣積體電路製造股份有限公司（TSMC）董事長劉德音收到了邀請，將與日本首相岸田文雄在日本會面。這次會議非常引人注目，因為全球主要半導體公司的高層很少聚集在一個地方。台積電證實劉德音將出席會議，但沒有提供進一步的細節。 According to reports, executives from several prominent global semiconductor firms, including TSMC, Micron Technology Inc, Applied Materials Inc, International Business Machines Corp, Intel Corp, Samsung Electronics Co, and Belgium's semiconductor research group Interuniversity Microelectronics Centre, have been invited to the discussions at the prime minister's office. The gathering of top executives from these industry leaders is an exceptional occurrence. 根據報導，多家知名的全球半導體公司的高管，包括台積電、美光科技公司、應用材料公司、IBM、英特爾、三星電子和比利時的半導體研究機構IMEC，受邀參加首相辦公室的討論。這些行業領導者的高層聚會是個罕見特例。 Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, along with Japanese Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Yasutoshi Nishimura and other senior officials, will attend the meeting. The focus of the discussions will be to strengthen Japan's economic security and enhance the country's semiconductor supply chain. During the meeting, the executives are expected to outline their investment and business development plans in Japan. 日本首相岸田文雄將與日本經濟產業省大臣西村康稔和其他高級官員一起出席會議。討論的焦點將是加強日本的經濟安全和提高該國的半導體供應鏈。在會議期間，高管們預計將概述他們在日本的投資和業務發展計劃。 Recognizing the importance of collaboration, Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno emphasized that achieving semiconductor supply chain resilience requires the concerted efforts of like-minded nations and regions, rather than relying on individual countries alone. The meeting aligns with the growing calls from the United States for its allies to work together in addressing challenges posed by China in the semiconductor industry and other technological domains. 日本內閣官房長官松野博一認識到半導體供應鏈的重要性，強調實現半導體供應鏈的彈性需要志同道合的國家和地區共同努力，而不僅僅依賴個別國家。此次會議與美國呼籲其盟友共同應對中國在半導體和其他技術領域帶來的挑戰之警示相吻合。 TSMC's commitment to Japan is evident through its ongoing endeavors in the country. The company is constructing a wafer fab in Kumamoto, Japan, with plans for commercial production next year. Additionally, TSMC established the TSMC Japan 3DIC R&D Center, a subsidiary aimed at developing advanced integrated circuit packaging and testing services, to provide comprehensive solutions to customers utilizing the chipmaker's cutting-edge chips. The subsidiary's clean room facility was inaugurated in June of last year. TSMC's dedication to innovation extends beyond the conventional path of shrinking transistor sizes, as it aims to drive semiconductor technology forward through system-level advancements that enhance computing performance and enable increased functionality. 台積電通過在日本的持續努力表明其對該國的承諾。該公司正在日本熊本建設晶圓廠，計劃於明年進行商業生產。此外，台積電成立了TSMC日本3DIC研發中心，該子公司旨在開發先進的集成電路封裝和測試服務，為使用該公司先進芯片的客戶提供全面的解決方案。該子公司的無塵室設施在去年6月揭幕啟用。台積電對創新的奉獻不僅僅限於傳統的晶體管尺寸縮小路徑，它還旨在通過系統級進展推動半導體技術的發展，提升計算性能並實現功能的增加。Reference article: https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/biz/archives/2023/05/18/2003799976

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments Summary: 討論文章: https://focustaiwan.tw/politics/202305120022 This week, Angel is back in town for a special gig. She is back working as a concert promoter. We all know getting a concert ticket is one of the hardest things in life, but what is the life of a concert organzier like? In this episode, Angel and I round up all there is to know about concert tickets. 歡迎投稿有趣的主題給醬老師與Angel老師 Comment down below! Vocabulary: 1. Scalper n. 黃牛 When concert tickets are sold out, scalpers will take advantage of the situation. 當演唱會票賣完時，黃牛就會利用這樣的情境。 2. Commission n. 佣金/手續費 For some privileged people, it is possible to get the concert tickets early as long as they pay a commission. 有些有權勢或有關係的人可能可以提早買到演唱會票，只要他們付佣金。 3. Non-refundable n. 不可退費 You can't cancel or change your concert ticket if the organizers set the tickets as non-refundable. 你無法更改或取消你的演唱會票如果主辦方所賣出的票已標示不可退費。 更多Vocab Podcast節目: https://www.15mins.today/vocab 歡迎主題投稿/意見回覆 : [email protected] 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected]

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments 每日英語跟讀 Ep.K588: The No.1 Summer energy and cost-saving air conditioning Up Young Cornerstone Corp: Exclusive Agent for Mitsubishi's Air Conditioning, Promoting Energy-Saving Chillers for Commercial and Residential Use In a bold move marking a significant partnership in the air conditioning industry, Taiwan's Up Young Cornerstone Corp (stock code 6728) has announced exclusive agency rights to residential and commercial products of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Air Conditioning, a top-tier Japanese manufacturer. This strategic partnership signals a step-change in the delivery of cutting-edge, energy-efficient cooling solutions, particularly amidst rising global energy costs and a heightened focus on carbon neutrality. 上洋產業獨家代理日本三菱重工空調 再推節能65%冰水機 從商辦到家用 領先業界服務標準 全方位迎接淨零商機 台灣空調及商用洗衣代理領導廠商上洋產業（以下簡稱「上洋」，股票代碼6728）宣布取得日本頂尖品牌三菱重工空調家用、商用產品獨家代理權，除一般家庭、商辦較常使用的氣冷式空調設備外，能為大型廠辦與集合式建築提供製冷需求的水冷離心式冰水機組也在代言人林志玲的介紹下首次以AR科技的方式亮相，宣示上洋產業與三菱重工空調在台灣電價持續上漲、全球吹起減碳淨零的號角時，將持續以最新的科技技術提供企業客戶與消費者生活，滿足企業商辦與家庭生活轉型的一切需求。 Mitsubishi's Rich Legacy and Superior Product Line Founded in 1884, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries has etched its name in the annals of global industry, renowned for its advanced technology and superior manufacturing techniques. Its range of high-end refrigeration and air conditioning products, all adhering to stringent energy-saving and environmental standards, are employed in world-famous landmarks such as Tokyo's Skytree, Malaysia's Petronas Twin Towers, and Singapore's Marina Bay. As part of the agency agreement, Up Young will expand its product line to include Mitsubishi's PAC, RAC, and VRF air-cooled AC systems, the new generation GART series chillers, and integrated heat source control systems. 東京晴空塔、馬來西亞雙子星塔指定採用 日本市佔第一 上洋產業獨家代理強勢登台 日本三菱重工創立於1884年，以生產火箭、航空器等國防工業的專業技術聞名於世，事業體涵蓋能源、建設、航太、交通運輸等領域。身為全球重工業製研的龍頭企業，三菱重工也結合各領域產品所蘊含的尖端技術及製造工藝，打造符合客戶與一般消費者需求甚至引領市場趨勢不同類型的高端製冷、空調產品，更以嚴格的世界級規格作為節能環保的標準，知名地標如東京晴空塔、馬來西亞雙子星塔、新加坡濱海灣等皆採用三菱重工能夠同時實現製冷與蓄冰多工運作的高效離心式冰水機設備；而取得三菱重工空調台灣獨家代理的上洋產業，除一般家庭商辦較常見的PAC、RAC、VRF等氣冷式空調設備外，亦引進新一代GART系列高效節能水冷離心式冰水機組與熱源綜合控制系統，以更完整的產品線提供客戶與消費者多樣化的製冷解決方案。 Up Youngs Unique Business Approach: Quality and Customer Satisfaction Boasting decades of in-depth experience in the commercial and home appliance sectors, Up Young sets itself apart by managing its services in-house, a rarity in the Taiwanese air conditioning industry. The company prides itself on its commitment to customer satisfaction, which is reflected in its broad product offerings, well-established service network, and incorporation of AR technology to enrich customer experience. 台灣在地專業服務ｘ日本重工業等級技術 領先業界標準為舒適生活提供創新、環保節能的解決方案 上洋於商用電器設備與家電產業中已深耕數十年，具有完整的且深厚的服務經驗與專業技術，也是台灣少數服務不委外的空調設備代理銷售商，對於代理產品也是經過嚴謹的使用性能評估後引進，除了大型高效離心式冰水機、一級能效家用商用的空調商品，今(2023)年第4季也將再擴充台灣消費者期待的除濕機產品；在銷售、保固、維修的服務網絡建置上也不斷推陳出新，除專業的服務人員外，也陸續加入如AR等新科技的互動體驗，力求提供所有客戶及消費者最佳的服務與生活體驗； Collaboration for the Future: Up Young’s Vision for Energy Efficiency and Consumer Comfort The partnership with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Air Conditioning equips Up Young with an impressive suite of products, empowering the company to continue to lead in service delivery. Through this partnership, Up Young is well-positioned to deliver on its mission: to ensure the comfort of consumers while offering energy-saving solutions that do not break the bank. As energy costs and environmental concerns continue to shape consumer choices, Up Young's innovative approach sets a new standard for the air conditioning industry. 三菱重工空調應用日本重工業等級技術的強悍產品力，讓上洋有信心在氣冷式空調設備維護設下3天內客服聯繫安排技師上門領先業界服務速度與品質的目標，除了讓消費者節能省電省荷包，在面對炎夏或寒冬也能夠安心的享受由三菱重工空調產品帶來舒適的生活空間，上洋將持續以在地的專業服務為所有客戶及消費者提供舒適生活的創新節能環保解決方案。

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments 每日英語跟讀 Ep.K587: Apple Vision Pro: A Breakthrough in Spatial Computing Apple recently introduced its highly anticipated mixed reality headset, Apple Vision Pro, which serves as a cutting-edge augmented reality platform. This revolutionary device offers a unique way to interact with digital content by seamlessly blending it into our physical surroundings. With Apple's advanced spatial computing technology, Vision Pro allows users to look through the device rather than merely at it, providing an immersive and intuitive experience. 蘋果最近推出了備受期待的混合實境頭戴裝置，名為Apple Vision Pro，它是一個尖端的擴增實境平台。這款革命性的設備能無縫地將數位內容與我們的實際環境融合，並為我們提供一種獨特的方式與數位內容進行互動。憑藉蘋果先進的空間計算技術，Vision Pro讓用戶能夠透過設備看世界，而不僅僅是看著設備，提供了一種身臨其境且直觀的體驗。 Powered by your eyes, hands, and voice, Vision Pro enables you to effortlessly navigate its interface. By tapping your fingers and flicking to select and scroll, you have complete control over the device. Apple has designed Vision Pro with the goal of ensuring users don't feel isolated while wearing it. The EyeSight feature displays your eyes and facial expressions through the outer display, offering a glimpse of your emotions. When fully immersed in an experience, a different animation is shown, but if someone nearby approaches, the passthrough feature activates, revealing their presence and allowing your eyes to reappear. Vision Pro憑藉你的眼睛、手和聲音為動力，讓你輕鬆地操作其界面。通過手指輕觸、滑動選擇和滾動，你能完全掌握設備。蘋果設計Vision Pro的目標是確保使用者在佩戴設備時不會感到孤立。EyeSight功能通過外部顯示器顯示你的眼睛和面部表情，讓人得以一窺你的情緒。當完全沉浸在體驗中時，會顯示不同的動畫，但如果附近有人靠近，通透功能會啟動，顯示他們的存在，並讓你的眼睛再度出現。 Apple plans to release the Vision Pro headset early next year. It is designed to seamlessly integrate with Mac devices wirelessly, enabling you to utilize Mac peripherals while using the headset. FaceTime also takes advantage of the headset's spatial capabilities, allowing group calls to expand spatially. Additionally, SharePlay enables you to share apps, which appear in large windows alongside video tiles, enhancing the collaborative experience. 蘋果計劃在明年初推出Vision Pro頭戴裝置。它設計成能夠無縫無線地與Mac設備整合，讓你在使用頭戴裝置時能夠使用Mac的周邊。FaceTime也利用頭戴裝置的空間能力，讓群組通話在空間上擴展。此外，SharePlay讓你可以分享應用程式，應用程式會顯示在影像磚旁邊的大視窗中，增強協作體驗。 Equipped with Apple's powerful M2 chip and a custom media co-processor, Vision Pro boasts impressive capabilities. It not only captures spatial photos and videos but can also simulate a dark theater environment, making it perfect for enjoying movies in a bright room. 配備蘋果強大的M2晶片和定制的媒體協處理器，Vision Pro擁有令人印象深刻的功能。它不僅可以捕捉空間照片和影片，還可以模擬黑暗的劇院環境，使它成為在明亮房間中享受電影的完美選擇。 Vision Pro offers a wide range of exciting experiences beyond its impressive features. For instance, renowned video game No Man's Sky will be available on the headset, ensuring endless entertainment for gaming enthusiasts. Moreover, according to Bob Iger, CEO of Disney, the headset allows users to explore captivating virtual worlds like Disney World, offering unique experiences in sports, concerts, and even underwater adventures. Vision Pro除了令人印象深刻的功能外，還提供了廣泛令人興奮的體驗。例如，著名的遊戲《無人深空》將可在頭戴裝置上遊玩，為遊戲愛好者帶來無盡的娛樂。此外，根據迪士尼首席執行官Bob Iger的說法，頭戴裝置讓用戶可以探索像迪士尼世界這樣迷人的虛擬世界，提供了在體育、音樂會甚至水下冒險等獨特的體驗。 Apple Vision Pro marks a new era in computing, revolutionizing how we interact with technology. With its advanced spatial computing capabilities, innovative design, and powerful hardware, Vision Pro opens up endless possibilities for users and developers alike. It's a testament to Apple's ongoing commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology and delivering groundbreaking experiences to its customers. Apple Vision Pro標榜著數位演算的新時代，革新了我們與技術互動的方式。憑藉先進的空間計算能力、創新的設計和強大的硬體，Vision Pro為用戶和開發者打開了無盡的可能。這是蘋果不斷推進技術界限、為客戶提供突破性體驗的證明。Reference article: https://9to5mac.com/2023/06/05/apple-vision-pro/

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments Topic: In age-old ritual, Mexican mayor weds alligator to secure abundance A small town Mexican mayor married his alligator bride in a colorful ceremony as traditional music rang out and revelers danced while imploring the indigenous leader to seal the nuptials with a kiss. 墨西哥一個小鎮市長在一場多采多姿的儀式中，迎娶了他的鱷魚新娘，現場演奏傳統音樂、狂歡者翩翩起舞，同時懇求這位原住民領袖用一個吻來為婚禮封印。 San Pedro Huamelula Mayor Victor Hugo Sosa obliged more than once during Thursday’s wedding, bending down to plant his lips on the small alligator’s snout, which had been tied shut presumably to avoid unwanted biting. 在週四的婚禮上，聖．佩德羅．瓦米魯拉的市長維克多．雨果．索薩不只一次答應要求，彎腰把嘴唇湊上這隻小鱷魚的鼻子，而小鱷魚的鼻子被緊緊綁住，大概是為了避免不必要的咬傷。 The ritual marriage likely dates back centuries to pre-Hispanic times among Oaxaca state’s Chontal and Huave indigenous communities, like a prayer pleading for nature’s bounty. 在墨西哥瓦哈卡州Chontal及Huave的原住民社會中，這種婚禮儀式就像是一個祈禱，祈求大自然的恩賜，可能可以追溯好幾個世紀，一直到前西班牙時代。 Oaxaca, located in Mexico’s poor south, is arguably the country’s richest in indigenous culture and home to many groups that have stubbornly maintained their languages and traditions. 瓦哈卡州位在墨西哥貧窮的南部地區，可說是墨國原住民文化最豐富的地區，也是許多堅持維護他們的語言和傳統的群體的家鄉。 Next Article In Mexico, those searching for missing relatives can vanish too 在墨西哥，尋找失蹤親友的人也會跟著消失 70-years-old Maria Herrera is scraping at the earth on a hill in the town of Huitzuco, in southern Mexico, looking for the mounds that indicate a decaying corpse. 70歲的瑪莉亞．赫雷拉在墨西哥南部威特蘇科鎮的山上四處挖掘，希望找到代表埋有腐爛屍體的土堆。 Digging in the dirt with a group of 100 other activists in the violent state of Guerrero, she wants to find her four missing son. 在暴力事件頻傳的格雷羅州，赫雷拉與100名行動人士一起挖土，想要找到4名失蹤的兒子。 More than 40,000 people are missing in Mexico, which has been swept by a wave of violence since the government declared war on the country’s powerful drug cartels in 2006. 2006年，墨西哥政府向勢力龐大的販毒集團宣戰後，這個國家就被暴力事件肆虐，目前已有逾4萬人失蹤。 At first, Herrera and her husband used the profits gained by selling household goods door to door to launch gold exchange business, which involved traveling the country to buy and sell gold. 起初，赫雷拉和丈夫用挨家挨戶賣居家用品的收入，展開黃金兌換生意，包括全國走透透買賣黃金。 They did not realize a bloody cartel turf war was just breaking out in the state. They believe a local cartel mistook the brothers, Jesus and Raul, for members of a rival group and were captured. Two more brothers started looking for them but disappeared too. 但他們沒料到，一場腥風血雨的毒梟地盤之爭已在國內爆發。他們相信，自家兒子赫塞斯和羅爾，是被一個地方販毒集團誤認為敵營的人，才被俘虜。另外2名兒子開始尋找兩人後，也下落不明。Source article: https://features.ltn.com.tw/english/article/paper/1539233 ; https://news.ltn.com.tw/news/world/paper/1292410 Next Article Topic: ‘We’re Living in Hell’: Inside Mexico’s Most Terrified City The violence was already terrifying, she said, when grenades exploded outside her church in broad daylight some five years ago. Then children in town were kidnapped, disappearing without a trace. Then the bodies of the executed were dumped in city streets. 她說，大約五年前，光天化日下手榴彈在她的教會外爆炸，這種暴力已經夠嚇人了。接著鎮上的孩子被綁架，消失得無影無蹤。然後他們被處刑的屍體丟棄在城市街道上。 And then came the day last month when armed men burst into her home, dragged her 15-year-old son and two of his friends outside and shot them to death, leaving Guadalupe — who didn’t want her full name published out of fear of the men — too terrified to leave the house. 接下來是上個月的那一天，武裝男子闖進她家，將她的15歲兒子和兒子兩個友人拖出屋外射殺，讓瓜達魯佩太過驚嚇以致於不敢離開家，因為害怕那些男子，她不希望刊出全名。 “I do not want the night to come,” she said, through tears. “Living with fear is no life at all.” 「我不希望黑夜來臨」，她流著淚說，「活在恐懼中完全不是人過的日子」。 For most of the population of Fresnillo, a mining city in central Mexico, a fearful existence is the only one they know; 96% of residents say they feel unsafe, the highest percentage of any city in Mexico, according to a recent survey from Mexico’s national statistics agency. 對於弗雷斯尼約這個墨西哥中部礦城的大多數人而言，他們知道的只有一項可怕現實。根據墨西哥國家統計局最近一項調查，96%居民說他們感覺不安全，是墨西哥所有城市比率最高者。 The economy can boom and bust, presidents and parties and their promises can come and go, but for the city’s 140,000 people, as for many in Mexico, there is a growing sense that no matter what changes, the violence endures. 經濟可以暴起大落，總統和政黨以及他們的承諾來來去去，但對這座城市的14萬人來說，如同墨西哥許多城市，不論有什麼改變，暴力依舊持續，這種意見正在增加。 In 2018, during his run for president, Andrés Manuel López Obrador offered a grand vision to remake Mexico. Instead of arresting and killing traffickers as previous leaders had done, he would focus on the causes of violence: “hugs not bullets,” he called it. He was swept to victory. 2018年總統選戰期間，羅培茲提出重塑墨西哥的遠大願景，他不像歷任領導人所做的逮捕並殺掉壞蛋，而是聚焦暴力的成因，他稱之為「擁抱而非子彈」。他壓倒式勝選。 But three years after his landslide win, and with his Morena party in control of Congress, the drumbeat of death continues, suggesting that López Obrador’s approach has failed, fueling in many a paralyzing helplessness. 但在他壓倒式勝利以及他的國家復興運動黨掌控國會三年後，死亡的鼓聲持續著，暗示羅培茲的方法已經失敗，激起許多人有如麻痹的無助感。 “We’re living in hell,” said Victor Piña, who ran for mayor of Fresnillo in the June elections and watched an aide gunned down beside him during a pre-campaign even

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments Other ways to say: BIG Large 大/大號 The house had an exceptionally large garden. Huge 巨大/廣大 She arrived at the airport carrying two huge suitcases. Enormous 極大 The stress there under is enormous. Gigantic 巨人般大 This gigantic wave came in from the sea. Massive 大而重/廣大 They stole a massive amount of money. Other ways to say: SMALL Tiny 微小 Though she was tiny, she had a very loud voice. Little 小 I had little money and little free time. Mini 迷你 I'll have a mini croissant with chocolate. Petite 嬌小/幼小 Jane is a petite young brunette. Slight 些許 There is only a slight difference. Minute 微 The chances of success were minute. 分享時間:Tell a personal experience related to something / experience that you would use “big” and “small”Pick 4 words and make sentences

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments 每日英語跟讀 Ep.K586: Marvel at the Spectacular "Blue Tears" of Matsu Island The phenomenon of "Blue Tears" is currently exploding in Matsu Island, making it a must-see spectacle of nature. During the transition between spring and summer each year, the sea surface is transformed into a glowing blue fluorescence, resembling a scene from the movie "Avatar." 「藍眼淚」現象正在馬祖大爆發，成為一個必看的自然奇觀。每年春夏之際，海面變成一片發藍色螢光的光景，猶如電影《阿凡達》中的場景。 What are "Blue Tears"? They are caused by a bioluminescent organism called dinoflagellates, which emit a faint blue light when disturbed by the natural movement of waves. This phenomenon is also known as "blue ocean fireworks" or "blue beer sea." It has been recognized by CNN as one of the "15 Natural Wonders of the World" and attracts numerous tourists every year. 什麼是「藍眼淚」？這個現象是由一種夜光藻的生物發光所引起，當牠們受到海浪的自然波動影響時，會發出淡藍色的光。這種現象也被稱為「藍色海洋煙火」或「藍色啤酒海」。CNN將其列為「世界15大自然奇觀」之一，每年吸引大量遊客前來參觀。 The viewing season for Blue Tears is from April to September in Matsu Island. However, the best viewing period falls between April and June, when the seawater temperature is moderate and the south wind blows. Blue Tears are not a result of ecological pollution; instead, they symbolize the abundance of ecological resources and marine life. 在馬祖，藍眼淚的觀賞季節是從四月到九月。然而，最佳觀賞時期是四月到六月，此時海水溫度適中，南風吹拂。藍眼淚並不是生態汙染的結果，相反的，它象徵著生態資源和海洋生物的豐富。 To catch the most beautiful Blue Tears, certain conditions must be met. It requires both technique and luck! Firstly, one needs to find a place with no light pollution after midnight (between low tide and high tide), along with clear water, calm winds, low water flow, and irregular terrain. These elements affect the visibility of Blue Tears. Additionally, the chances of witnessing the most breathtaking scenes are higher during the days before and after the 15th day of the lunar month when there is moderate wind and wave speed. 要欣賞最美麗的藍眼淚，需要滿足一定的條件。這需要技巧和運氣！首先，需要在午夜以後（退潮和漲潮之間）找到沒有光害的地方，還要有清澈的水、平靜的風、低水流和不規則的地形。這些元素都會影響藍眼淚的可見度。此外，在農曆十五日前後的日子裡，當風速和波速適中時，欣賞到最令人驚嘆景色的機會更高。 According to the Lienchiang County Government, "Four Townships and Five Islands" in Matsu Island offer opportunities to observe Blue Tears. Recommended spots include Fuzheng Beach and Mengu Harbor in Dongju, Qiaozai, Qinqi Beach, and Tanghoudao Beach in Beigan, Tiebao and Fuwo Harbor in Nangan, and Zhongzhu Embankment and Guozhi Beijiang in Dongyin. Visitors can also explore the mysterious Blue Tears through the limited-time "Nighttime Rowing Tour to Witness Blue Tears" by making prior reservations. 根據連江縣政府的說法，在馬祖島上的「四鄉五島」都有觀賞藍眼淚的機會。推薦的觀賞點包括東莒的福正沙灘和猛澳港，北竿的橋仔、芹壁沙灘和塘後道沙灘，南竿的鐵堡和福沃港，還有東引的中柱堤和國之北疆。遊客還可以通過預約限時的「夜間搖櫓觀賞藍眼淚遊程」來探索這神秘的奇景。 When chasing Blue Tears, it is important to be cautious and avoid going alone. Due to poor visibility at night, it is advised not to separate from the group. Matsu's coastal terrain is rugged, so it's best to avoid getting close to pebble beaches and rocky shores. Visitors should refrain from throwing stones to stimulate the bioluminescence, not wade into the water beyond knee level, and avoid shining flashlights or using camera flash to ensure everyone can enjoy the highest quality viewing experience. 在追逐藍眼淚時，要注意保持警惕，避免單獨行動。由於夜間能見度差，建議不要與團隊分開。馬祖的海岸地形崎嶇，最好避免靠近礫石灘和岩岸。遊客應避免扔石頭以刺激生物發光，不要深入水中超過膝蓋，避免使用手電筒或閃光燈，以確保每個人都能享受到最高品質的觀賞體驗。Reference article: https://www.marieclaire.com.tw/lifestyle/travel/49752

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments 每日英語跟讀 Ep.K585: Disney's "The Little Mermaid" Makes a Splash with $117 Million Opening Weekend at US Box Office Disney's live-action adaptation of "The Little Mermaid" made a big splash at the US box office, raking in an impressive $117.5 million during its opening weekend. This marked the fifth-best opening in the history of Memorial Day weekends, according to Box Office Mojo. 迪士尼的《小美人魚》真人改編電影在美國票房大放異彩，首映的週末取得了1.175億美元的驚人成績。根據票房資料網站 Box Office Mojo 的數據，這是美國陣亡將士紀念日（每年五月最後一個星期一）週末票房歷史上排名第五的首映成績。 Starring Halle Bailey as Ariel, the remake of the beloved 1989 Disney animated classic received mixed reviews from critics. While Bailey's portrayal of the iconic character was widely praised, the overall reception of the movie was somewhat divided. On the review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes, only 67% of critics gave the film a positive rating. 由海莉·貝利飾演的《小美人魚》真人版改編自1989年的迪士尼動畫經典。本片在影評人間評價兩極，貝利對角色的詮釋受到廣泛好評，但整體評價卻存在分歧。在評論網站「爛番茄」上，只有67%的影評給予了該片正面評價。 However, audiences had a different perspective, with an overwhelming 95% expressing their approval on Rotten Tomatoes. Interestingly, IMDb had to make adjustments to some of its overseas ratings due to review-bombing incidents targeting the movie. Such controversies arose from the decision to cast a black actress as Ariel, with right-wing media and social platforms becoming a platform for racist tropes and discussions. 然而，觀眾對這部電影持有不同的觀點，超過95%的觀眾在爛番茄上表示贊同。有趣的是，IMDb不得不對一些海外評分進行調整，因為這部電影成為了負評轟炸的目標。這些爭議源於迪士尼選擇以黑人演員飾演愛麗兒，這在右翼媒體和社交平台上引發了種族主義的揶揄和討論。 Director Rob Marshall responded to the criticism, dismissing the complaints about casting a black actor as "small-minded" in an interview with Vanity Fair. He emphasized the importance of representation in popular culture and how casting a black actress as Ariel could positively impact black children. Disney has previously cast actors of different races for characters originally portrayed as white, such as Brandy as Cinderella in 1997's remake. 導演勞勃·馬歇爾在接受《浮華世界》雜誌的採訪中回應了這些批評，他認為對於黑人演員的選角抱怨是“狹隘的”。他強調在流行文化中代表性的重要性，以及將黑人演員選為愛麗兒能夠對黑人兒童產生的積極影響。迪士尼過去曾將原本由白人飾演的角色重新改為其他種族的演員，例如在1997年的《灰姑娘》中由黑人演員布蘭蒂飾演。 Despite the controversy, "The Little Mermaid" achieved remarkable success over the Memorial Day weekend, ranking among the highest-grossing films for that holiday. Box Office Mojo reported that it fell short of last year's "Top Gun Maverick" with $160 million, but still surpassed the earnings of other films like "Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End," "Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull," and "X-Men: The Last Stand." 儘管有爭議，但《小美人魚》在陣亡將士紀念日的週末取得了驚人的成功，成為該節日票房最高的電影之一。 Box Office Mojo 報導說，該片未能超越去年的《捍衛戰士：獨行俠》獲得的1.6億美元票房，但仍然超過了其他電影如《神鬼奇航3：世界的盡頭》、《印第安納瓊斯：水晶骷髏王國》和《X戰警：最後戰役》的票房。 When considering international ticket sales, "The Little Mermaid" reached a total of $185.8 million during its opening weekend. This highlights the global appeal and popularity of Disney's live-action remakes. The film's success not only signifies the enduring charm of the original story but also showcases the impact of diverse casting choices in the modern film industry. 考慮到國際票房收入，《小美人魚》在首映週末的全球總票房達1.858億美元。這突顯了迪士尼真人版翻拍電影的全球吸引力和受歡迎程度。該片的成功不僅體現了原始故事的持久魅力，還展示了多元選角在現代電影行業中的影響。Reference article: https://edition.cnn.com/2023/05/29/media/little-mermaid-box-office/index.html

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments Summary: 討論文章: https://www.businessinsider.com/work-from-home-remote-work-changed-economy-pandemic-2023-4#some-companies-have-decided-to-close-offices-and-remote-work-has-changed-the-purpose-of-an-office-3 Remote work in the past two years have changed consumer behavior and the way we see the office. This week on J&J, Jemmy and I talk about the changes and what we have observed in our working lives. 歡迎通勤家族來信回饋「你對未來遠距工作的預測」到[email protected] ，會在節目裡給予特殊Shout out! 喜歡我們討論人資、職涯、外商工作相關主題，請留言支持我們雙J論！ Comment down below! Vocabulary: 1. Clock in / Clock out v. 打卡上班/下班 Many businesses are allowing their staff to clock in and clock out using smartphones. 許多公司讓員工使用智慧型手機在打卡上下班。 2. Cubicle n. 小隔間 Modern offices are filled with cubicles, in the near future, desks will be shared. 現代的辦公室都充滿了小隔間，在不久的未來，辦公桌都是用分享的。 3. Locker n. 儲物櫃 If you engage in hybrid work, you would have to put your personal belongings in a locker when going into the office. 如果開始混合工作，你需放個人物品在辦公室儲物櫃裡。 更多Vocab Podcast節目: https://www.15mins.today/vocab 歡迎主題投稿/意見回覆 : [email protected] 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected]

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments 每日英語跟讀 Ep.K584: Bill Gates Predicts AI's Disruptive Potential on Google Search and Amazon During a recent event on artificial intelligence organized by Goldman Sachs and SV Angel, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates shared his belief that the future of artificial intelligence lies in the development of a personal digital agent capable of performing various tasks for individuals. Gates emphasized that this technology has the potential to significantly alter user behavior, eliminating the need for people to visit search engines, use certain productivity tools, or shop on platforms like Amazon. The first company to successfully create such an AI assistant will have a significant advantage over its competitors, according to Gates. 在最近由高盛集團和SV Angel天使投資公司舉辦的一場人工智慧活動中，微軟聯合創始人比爾蓋茨分享了他的信念，認為人工智慧的未來在於開發一個能夠為個人執行各種任務的個人數位秘書。蓋茨強調這項技術有可能大大改變使用者行為，使人們不再需要使用搜索引擎、使用特定的生產力工具，或在亞馬遜等平台上購物。根據蓋茨的說法，成功創建此類人工智慧助手的第一家公司將在競爭對手中佔有極大優勢。 The envisioned AI personal assistant will possess a deep understanding of users' needs and habits, offering assistance in reading materials that individuals may not have time to explore. Gates expressed these thoughts during the Goldman Sachs and SV Angel event held in San Francisco, focusing on the topic of artificial intelligence. The profound impact of this technology on user behavior cannot be overstated, as it has the potential to revolutionize the way individuals interact with digital platforms and access information. 設想中的人工智慧個人助手將深入理解用戶的需求和習慣，提供協助閱讀個人可能無暇探索的資料。蓋茨在舊金山舉辦的高盛集團和SV Angel天使投資公司的活動中表達了這些想法，重點討論了人工智慧的主題。這項技術對用戶行為的深遠影響不容小覷，因為它有潛力徹底改變個人與數位平台互動和獲取資訊的方式。 Gates believes that the future leading company in artificial intelligence has a 50-50 chance of being either a startup or a tech giant. While Gates expressed hope for Microsoft's involvement in this field, he also acknowledged the impressive work of certain startups, including Inflection.AI, co-founded by former DeepMind executive Mustafa Suleyman. However, Gates emphasized that it will take some time before this powerful AI agent is ready for mainstream use. In the meantime, companies will continue integrating generative AI technologies, such as OpenAI's popular ChatGPT, into their own products. 蓋茨認為，未來人工智慧領域的領先公司有一半的可能性是新創公司，另一半可能是科技巨頭。雖然蓋茨表示希望微軟參與這一領域，但他也承認某些新創公司的作為令人印象深刻，包括由前DeepMind執行長穆斯塔法蘇萊曼（Mustafa Suleyman）共同創立的Inflection.AI。然而，蓋茨強調這款強大的人工智慧助手還需要一些時間才能為主流使用做好準備。與此同時，公司們將繼續將生成式人工智慧技術（如OpenAI受歡迎的ChatGPT）整合到自己的產品中。 Beyond the impact on digital platforms, Gates also discussed how AI can accelerate innovations in the healthcare sector. He expressed optimism that advancements in AI will lead to more advanced drug development, potentially offering solutions for diseases like Alzheimer's. Gates speculated that within the next decade, human trials for new drugs could take place, bringing us closer to finding effective treatments. Furthermore, Gates mentioned the potential impact of generative AI technologies on both white-collar and blue-collar workers. The rise of text-generating AI has the potential to transform the nature of work, while the development of humanoid robots that are cost-effective for companies could affect blue-collar employment. 除了對數位平台的影響之外，蓋茨還討論了人工智慧如何加速醫療領域的創新。他對人工智慧的進步表示樂觀，認為它有望促進更先進的藥物開發，可能為阿茲海默症等疾病找出解決方案。蓋茨推測，在未來的十年內，可能會進行新藥的人體試驗，使我們離找到有效的治療方法更接近。此外，蓋茨還提到生成式人工智慧對藍領和白領階級的潛在影響。生成文本型人工智慧的崛起有可能改變工作的性質，同時對於公司而言，成本效益優於人類員工的人形機器人也可能對藍領就業產生重大影響。 In a light-hearted remark, Gates jokingly commented on the importance of ensuring that these advanced robots do not "get Alzheimer's" as humanity continues to explore and harness the potential of AI in various fields. 蓋茨在輕鬆的談話中開玩笑地提到，在人們利用人工智慧並不斷探索其各個領域的潛力時，重要的是確保這些先進的機器人不會“患上阿茲海默症”。Reference article: https://www.cnbc.com/2023/05/22/bill-gates-predicts-the-big-winner-in-ai-smart-assistants.html

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments 每日英語跟讀 Ep.K583: Netflix Takes Action Against Account Sharing and Expands Measures Netflix has recently addressed the issue of account sharing, both in Taiwan and worldwide. In an announcement on its official website, Netflix revealed that it will send emails to members who share their accounts with non-residents, asking for an additional monthly fee. Many users share accounts to save money, and Netflix has been aware of this for some time. After testing measures against account sharing in Latin America last year, Netflix has now expanded these measures globally, including Taiwan, which has caught the attention of users. Netflix最近處理了台灣和全球帳戶共用的問題。在官方網站的公告中，Netflix透露將向與非同住者共用帳戶的會員發送電子郵件，要求額外的月費。Netflix對於許多用戶共享帳戶以節省費用已關注許久，經過去年在拉丁美洲測試的帳戶共用措施後，Netflix現在將這些措施擴展至全球包含台灣，並引起了用戶的關注。 According to Netflix, user accounts are intended for residents of the same household. If users want to share their accounts with people outside their households, they can purchase additional memberships. These additional members will have their own account and password, with the subscription fee paid by the inviting person. The basic plan does not allow extra members, while the standard plan permits one extra member and the premium plan allows for two extra members. However, there are limitations for additional members, such as streaming on one device at a time and downloading on one device. The country where the additional member activates the account must match the account owner's country. 根據Netflix的說法，共同帳戶是給位於同一住處的人們使用。如果用戶希望與同住者外的人分享帳戶，可以購買額外的會員資格。這些額外成員將擁有自己的帳戶和密碼，訂閱費將由邀請人支付。基本方案不允許額外成員，而標准方案允許添加一個額外成員，高級方案則允許添加兩個額外成員。然而，額外成員存在一些限制，例如同一時間僅能在一個設備上串流播放，以及僅能在一個設備上下載。額外成員啟用帳戶的國家/地區必須與帳戶所有者的國家/地區相符。 Netflix aims to protect its revenue from investments in TV shows and movies by cracking down on account sharing practices. As the market becomes saturated, Netflix has been exploring new ways to generate income, including limiting account sharing and introducing advertising support options. Emails regarding account sharing will be sent to users in 103 countries, including Taiwan, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Australia, Singapore, Mexico, and Brazil. Netflix emphasizes that accounts are for residents of the same household, but users can share accounts with others outside their households by paying an extra fee. Netflix旨在通過打擊帳戶共用行為來保護其在電視節目和電影投資方面的收入。隨著市場飽和，Netflix一直在尋求新的收入來源，包括限制帳戶共用並引入廣告支持選項。將向103個國家/地區的用戶發送關於帳戶共用的電子郵件，包括台灣、美國、英國、法國、德國、澳大利亞、新加坡、墨西哥和巴西。Netflix強調帳戶僅供同一住處人們使用，但用戶可以支付額外費用與非同住者共享帳戶。 Netflix's CEO, Ted Sarandos, mentioned that addressing account sharing helps expand the base of paying members and supports the company's long-term growth strategy. Netflix's user count reached a record high of 232.5 million in the first quarter of this year. The company introduced a successful advertising-supported plan, attracting over 5 million subscribers. Analyst Ross Benes noted that Netflix's decision to introduce an advertising-supported plan while addressing account sharing is strategic. Individuals previously using shared accounts and seeking lower-priced options may find the advertising-supported plan appealing. Netflix的首席執行官（CEO） Ted Sarandos 表示，解決帳戶共用問題有助於擴大付費會員人數，支持公司的長期增長策略。Netflix在今年第一季的用戶達到了2.325億的歷史高點。該公司推出了一個成功的廣告支持計劃，吸引了超過500萬訂閱者。分析師 Ross Benes 指出，Netflix在解決帳戶共用問題的同時，策略性的推出廣告支持計劃。之前使用共用帳戶並尋求價格較低選項的個人可能會對廣告支持計劃感興趣。 Reference article: 1. https://www.cna.com.tw/news/ahel/202305240017.aspx + Sure? 2. https://www.cna.com.tw/news/aopl/202305180147.aspx

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments Topic: A Monster Wind Turbine Is Upending an Industry Twirling above a strip of land at the mouth of Rotterdam’s harbor is a wind turbine so large it is difficult to photograph. The turning diameter of its rotor is longer than two American football fields end to end. Later models will be taller than any building on the mainland of Western Europe. 鹿特丹港口一處狹長土地上，有座風力發電機在轉動，規模大到難以近距離拍攝，葉片旋轉直徑比兩座美式足球場接起來還長，日後更新版的風機將比西歐大陸上任何建物都高。 Packed with sensors gathering data on wind speeds, electricity output and stresses on its components, the giant whirling machine in the Netherlands is a test model for a new series of giant offshore wind turbines planned by General Electric. When assembled in arrays, the wind machines have the potential to power cities, supplanting the emissions-spewing coal- or natural gas-fired plants that form the backbones of many electric systems today. 這個位於荷蘭的巨型旋轉機器，是奇異公司所規畫新系列巨型離岸風機的測試模型，配備了收集風速、電力輸出及各零件所受應力數據的感應器。這些風機若以陣列布建，具備為城市供電的潛力，取代大量排放廢氣、組成當今許多發電系統骨幹的燃煤或燃氣發電廠。 GE has yet to install one of these machines in ocean water. As a relative newcomer to the offshore wind business, the company faces questions about how quickly and efficiently it can scale up production to build and install hundreds of the turbines. 奇異公司尚未在海上安裝此類機器。奇異在離岸風電業堪稱新兵，面臨的問題是，能多快、多有效地擴大生產規模，以建造並安裝數百座風機。 But already the giant turbines have turned heads in the industry. A top executive at the world’s leading wind farm developer called it a “bit of a leapfrog over the latest technology.” And an analyst said the machine’s size and advance sales had “shaken the industry.” 然而這種巨型風機已在業界引起轟動。全球頂尖風場開發商的一位高管稱其為「超越最新技術的一次飛躍」。一位分析師表示，這款機器的尺寸與預售量「撼動了整個產業」。 The prototype is the first of a generation of new machines that are about a third more powerful than the largest already in commercial service. As such, it is changing the business calculations of wind equipment makers, developers and investors. 這是新世代風機的第一個原型機，新世代風機功能比已在商業運轉的最大風機還要強三分之一左右。因此，它正在改變風力設備製造商、開發商與投資人的盤算。 The GE machines will have a generating capacity that would have been almost unimaginable a decade ago. A single one will be able to turn out 13 megawatts of power, enough to light up a town of roughly 12,000 homes. 奇異的風機將具有十年前幾乎無法想像的發電能力，一座就能產生13百萬瓦電力，足夠點亮約有1.2萬戶家庭的小鎮。 The turbine is capable of producing as much thrust as the four engines of a Boeing 747 jet, according to GE, and will be deployed at sea, where developers have learned that they can plant larger and more numerous turbines than on land to capture breezes that are stronger and more reliable. 奇異表示，這種風機能產生相當於波音747飛機四具引擎的推力，將部署在海上，開發商已經知道在海上能安裝比陸上更大也更多的風機，以捕捉更強也更可靠的風。 The race to build bigger turbines has moved faster than many industry figures foresaw. GE’s Haliade-X generates almost 30 times more electricity than the first offshore machines installed off Denmark in 1991. 建造更大風機的競賽步調比許多業內人士預測的要快。奇異的Haliade-X風機，發電量幾乎是1991年安裝於丹麥近海的第一座離岸風機的30倍。 In coming years, customers are likely to demand even bigger machines, industry executives say. On the other hand, they predict that turbines will reach a point at which greater size no longer makes economic sense. 業界高層表示，未來幾年顧客很可能要求更大的機器。另一方面，他們預測，風機遲早會來到再大就不合經濟效益的時刻。 Source article: https://udn.com/news/story/6904/5180307 Next Article Topic: A Scary Energy Winter Is Coming. Don’t Blame the Greens. Every so often the tectonic geopolitical plates that hold up the world economy suddenly shift in ways that can rattle and destabilize everything on the surface. That’s happening right now in the energy sphere. 有時候，承載世界經濟的地緣政治板塊會突然移動，把地表每樣東西搖得嘎嘎作響。這種事現在就在能源領域發生。 Several forces are coming together that could make Vladimir Putin the king of Europe, enable Iran to thumb its nose at America and build an atomic bomb, and disrupt European power markets enough that the upcoming United Nations climate conference in Glasgow, Scotland, could suffer blackouts owing to too little clean energy. 有幾股勢力正在匯聚，能使俄國總統普亭成為歐洲之王，使伊朗有本錢不把美國放在眼裡，進而造出原子彈，並足以打亂歐洲能源市場，讓即將登場的英國蘇格蘭格拉斯哥聯合國氣候大會可能會因為潔淨能源太少而停電。 Yes, this is a big one. 沒錯，問題很大。 Natural gas and coal prices in Europe and Asia just hit their highest levels on record, oil prices in America hit a seven-year high and U.S. gasoline prices are up $1 a gallon from last year. If this winter is as bad as some experts predict — with some in the poor and middle classes unable to heat their homes — I fear we’ll see a populist backlash to the whole climate/green movement. You can already smell that coming in Britain. 歐亞兩洲的天然氣和煤價剛剛達到史上最高，美國原油價格創七年新高，而汽油價格每加侖比去年上漲1美元。如果今年冬天跟一些專家預測的一樣糟，一些貧窮和中產階級人家負擔不起取暖費用，我擔心會出現針對整個氣候和綠能運動的民粹反彈。在英國已經可以嗅到這個跡象。 How did we get here? In truth, it’s a good-news-bad-news story. 我們怎會走到這一步？其實，這是個好消息壞消息都有的故事。 The good news is that every major economy has signed onto reducing its carbon footprint by phasing out dirtier fuels like coal to heat homes and to power industries. The bad news is that most nations are doing it in totally uncoordinated ways, from the top d

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments 1. Ray of Sunshine 給人帶來歡樂的人，給人以希望者 Meaning: A happy person who makes the people around them feel happy too Example: Mary is a ray of sunshine who always makes people laugh. 2. A place in the sun 好位置；幸運的位置 Meaning: A good or lucky position Example: After years of hard work, Tim has finally found his place in the sun after being promoted to senior manager. 3. Walking on sunshine 興高采烈 Meaning: To be extremely happy Example: She has been walking on sunshine ever since getting into her dream university last week. 4. Like a cat on a hot tin roof 坐立不安 Meaning: To be very agitated or anxious Example: While they waited for their exam results, the students in the classroom were like cats on a hot tin roof. 5. Everything under the sun 世界上的一切 Meaning: everything in the world Example: I want to do everything under the sun when I am studying in San Francisco! 6. There is nothing new under the sun 日光之下並無新事 Meaning: everything has been done/experienced before Example: After surfing, kayaking, hiking, and snorkeling, it seemed like there was nothing new under the sun to do in Yilan. But then I discovered the cycling trail! 練習時間: 請使用二到三個慣用語來分享自身觀點 Please think of two to three scenarios where you can use these idioms or share a story using the idioms.

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments 每日英語跟讀 Ep.K582: Nvidia Expands its Presence in Supercomputers, Challenging Intel and AMD Nvidia Corp has recently collaborated with the University of Bristol in the United Kingdom to develop a new supercomputer, putting it in direct competition with Intel Corp and Advanced Micro Devices Inc. Nvidia, known as the leading producer of graphics processing units (GPUs) in the world, is now venturing into the central processing unit (CPU) market. This year, Nvidia introduced its own CPU chip called Grace, based on Arm Ltd technology owned by SoftBank Group Corp. Nvidia公司最近與英國布里斯托大學合作開發了一款新的超級電腦，與Intel和AMD正面對決。Nvidia被譽為全球領先的顯示卡（GPU）製造商，現在正進軍中央處理器（CPU）市場。今年，Nvidia推出了一款名為Grace的自家CPU，該晶片基於軟銀集團旗下的Arm有限公司技術。 Nvidia's GPUs have gained significant popularity due to their ability to accelerate artificial intelligence work. For instance, OpenAI's ChatGPT was developed using thousands of Nvidia GPUs. However, Nvidia's GPUs are typically combined with CPUs, which have long been dominated by Intel and AMD. To expand its market reach, Nvidia has now introduced its own CPU chip called Grace. This move allows Nvidia to directly challenge Intel and AMD's hold on the CPU market. Nvidia的GPU因其加速人工智能工作的能力而受到廣泛歡迎。例如，OpenAI的ChatGPT就是使用了數千個Nvidia的GPU開發的。然而，Nvidia的GPU通常與由Intel和AMD主導已久的CPU相結合。為擴大市場佔比，Nvidia現在推出了自家的CPU晶片Grace。此舉使Nvidia得以直接挑戰Intel和AMD在CPU市場的霸主地位。 At a recent supercomputing conference in Germany, Nvidia announced its collaboration with British researchers and Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co (HPE) to build Isambard 3, a computer solely powered by Nvidia's Grace CPU chips without utilizing any of the company's renowned GPUs. The University of Bristol intends to use the Isambard 3 system for important research in fields such as climate science and drug discovery. Ian Buck, Nvidia's general manager and vice president of accelerated computing, emphasized the system's remarkable performance and energy efficiency. Isambard 3 operates on only 270 kilowatts of power, which is six times more efficient than the university's previous system, Isambard 2. 最近在德國舉行的超級電腦會議上，Nvidia宣布與英國研究人員和慧與科技（HPE）合作建造了名為Isambard 3的電腦，該電腦完全使用Nvidia的Grace CPU，不使用該公司著名的GPU。布里斯托大學打算將Isambard 3系統用於氣候科學和藥物研究等重要研究領域。Nvidia的加速計算總經理兼副總裁Ian Buck在新聞發布會上強調了該系統出色的性能和能源效率。Isambard 3的運行功率只用了270千瓦，比該大學之前的Isambard 2系統高出六倍。 The development of Isambard 3 demonstrates Nvidia's strategic expansion into the supercomputing market, posing a direct challenge to Intel and AMD. By incorporating its own CPU chips into supercomputers, Nvidia aims to offer a comprehensive solution that combines its leading GPUs with emerging CPU technology. This holistic approach has the potential to revolutionize supercomputing, enabling advancements in artificial intelligence, scientific research, and complex simulations. Isambard 3的開發表明了Nvidia在超級電腦領域的戰略性擴張，直接的挑戰了Intel和AMD。通過將自家的CPU整合到超級電腦中，Nvidia旨在提供一種將其領先的GPU與新興的CPU技術相結合的綜合解決方案，這種全面的方案有潛力徹底改變超級電腦領域，推動人工智能、科學研究和複雜模擬等方面的進步。Reference article: https://www.reuters.com/technology/nvidia-chips-away-intel-amd-turf-supercomputers-2023-05-22/

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments 每日英語跟讀 Ep.K581: Buddy Holly Makes History as the First Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen to Win Westminster Show In a historic victory, a petite basset griffon Vendeen named Buddy Holly claimed the top prize at the 147th annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, surpassing over 3,000 dogs representing 210 breeds and varieties. Hailing from Palm Springs, California, this six-year-old male became the first of his breed to achieve this esteemed honor. Originally bred for hare tracking in the Vendee region of western France, Buddy Holly's triumph marks a significant milestone for the petit basset griffon Vendeen breed. 這是一場歷史性的勝利，一隻名叫「巴迪‧霍利」（Buddy Holly）的迷你貝吉格里芬凡丁獵犬（PetitBasset Griffon Vendéen，PBGV）贏得了第147屆美國西敏寺犬展的最高獎項，超越了代表210個品種和變種的3,000多隻狗狗。這隻六歲的公狗來自美國加州的棕櫚泉，成為該品種首次獲此殊榮的犬隻。迷你貝吉格里芬凡丁獵犬原本是在法國西部的旺代地區專門飼養來追蹤野兔，Buddy Holly的勝利對於這個品種來說是一個重要的里程碑。 Janice Hayes, Buddy Holly's co-owner and handler, expressed her astonishment at their victory, stating, "I never thought PBGV would do this. Buddy Holly truly embodies the essence of a champion show dog." Each breed showcased at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show represents the culmination of years of artificial selection, carefully refining and enhancing specific traits inherited from their ancestral wolves. 巴迪‧霍利的共同飼主和訓練員Janice Hayes對於他們的勝利感到驚訝，她說：「我從來沒想過迷你貝吉格里芬凡丁獵犬能做到這點。巴迪‧霍利真正展現了一隻冠軍犬的精髓。」美國西敏寺犬展中的每一個品種代表了多年人工選擇的成果，精心改良和增強了從牠們的狼祖先那裡繼承而來的特定特徵。 The competition's participants were classified into seven distinct groups to determine the ultimate best in show finalists: hound, toy, non-sporting, herding, sporting, working, and terrier. Buddy Holly emerged as the winner of the hound group, showcasing his exemplary qualities within his breed. 比賽的參賽犬被分為七個不同的組別，以決定最終的最佳展覽犬：獵犬、玩具犬、非運動犬、牧羊犬、運動犬、工作犬和梗犬。巴迪‧霍利贏得了獵犬組的冠軍，展示了其品種內卓越的特質。 The runner-up, receiving the prize for reserve best in show, was awarded to Rummie, a Pekingese from the toy group. Bred and owned by David Fitzpatrick, Rummie demonstrated the exceptional characteristics that epitomize the breed. The judges meticulously evaluated the dogs by examining them up close, physically interacting with them, and observing how the handlers led them around the floor. The dogs were assessed based on breed standards, including appearance, temperament, size, coat, and other defining characteristics. 亞軍獎項的最佳展覽犬則授予了玩具犬組的冠軍，一隻名為魯米（Rummie）的北京狗。魯米由主人David Fitzpatrick培育和擁有，展示了該品種的優秀特點。評審們仔細觀察犬隻，近距離檢查牠們，與牠們互動，觀察訓練員如何引領牠們在展場上行走。犬隻按照品種標準進行評估，包括外觀、氣質、大小、毛髮和其他明確特徵。 The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, which traces its origins back to 1877, has grown into a highly anticipated annual event and a staple on television broadcasts. This year, due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the show took place at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens, New York, the site of the renowned U.S. Open tennis tournament. In previous years, the event was traditionally held at Madison Square Garden in Midtown Manhattan but was relocated to a smaller venue at Lyndhurst Mansion as a precautionary measure. Buddy Holly's groundbreaking victory not only solidifies his place in dog show history but also serves as an inspiration to future generations of petit basset griffon Vendeen enthusiasts. 美國西敏寺犬展可以追溯到1877年，已成為一個受矚目的年度盛會，並成為電視廣播中的一個重要節目。今年，由於持續的新冠疫情，展覽在紐約皇后區的美國網球公開賽場地「比莉·珍·金網球中心」舉行。過去，該活動通常在曼哈頓中城的麥迪遜廣場花園舉行，但由於預防措施，場地被轉移到位於林德赫斯特城堡莊園的較小場地上。巴迪‧霍利的突破性勝利不僅鞏固了牠在犬展歷史上的地位，也激勵了未來的迷你貝吉格里芬凡丁獵犬的愛好者。 Reference article:https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/dog-named-buddy-holly-is-first-its-breed-win-westminster-show-2023-05-10/ https://tw.stock.yahoo.com/news/%E5%9C%96%E8%BC%AF-%E7%8B%97%E7%95%8C%E5%A5%A7%E6%96%AF%E5%8D%A1-%E8%A5%BF%E6%95%8F%E5%AF%BA%E7%8A%AC%E5%B1%95%E7%99%BB%E5%A0%B4-%E9%80%99%E9%9A%BB%E6%AF%9B%E5%AD%A9%E9%A6%96%E5%A5%AA%E5%86%A0-095309716.html

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments 1. Giving someone the cold shoulder 冷落他人 傳說這句諺語的起源，可追溯至19世紀，當時英國有一位小說家Sir Walter Scott，他在自己的創作裡面使用了這句諺語。裡頭描述在一場飯局中，主人公提供了一塊Cold Shoulder of Mutton（冷掉的羊肩胛肉）給客人，用來表示冷落，不願招待的情境。 原文裡頭a cold shoulder of mutton，Mutton指的是羊肉，而他跟我們所熟悉的Lamb有何區別？ "Giving someone the cold shoulder" is a popular English idiom that means to intentionally ignore someone as a form of punishment or disapproval. It implies a deliberate act of showing indifference or unfriendliness towards another person. Example sentences:After the argument, Sarah gave her friend the cold shoulder and refused to speak to her for days.Despite his attempts to apologize, the boss continued to give him the cold shoulder, making the work environment tense and uncomfortable. 2. Hands down 輕而易舉 這句諺語起源自19世紀賽馬運動，由於當時賽馬活動受到全國人民喜愛，報紙上經常看見許多有關賽馬的資訊，而體育記者運用了Hands down這個字句，來描述騎士通過終點前，雙手垂放，沒拉韁繩仍舊獲得冠軍。這代表騎士在這場比賽中，拿下勝利是輕而易舉。 現代英國最有名的賽馬活動，可以追溯至1711年。當時養了一堆馬，又熱愛賽馬活動的安妮女王，在溫莎城堡不遠處的阿斯科特小鎮舉辦了一場有獎金的賽馬活動，後來為了延續這項娛樂，更成立了皇家賽馬場，也就是阿思科特賽馬會場(Ascot Racecourse) ，300多年來，這座賽馬場每年六月都會舉辦皇家賽馬會(Royal Ascot)。據說它是英國最有價值的賽馬活動，獎金高達數百萬英鎊，除了看賽馬外，也是世界知名的社交場合，活動中能看見參與者盛裝打扮，展現自己時尚的一面。 "Hands down" is a common English idiom that is used to indicate a clear and decisive victory or outcome. It means that something is easily the best or most superior option without any doubt or competition. It suggests that there is no need for further discussion or debate because the winner or the best choice is evident. Example sentences:John is the fastest runner in our school. He wins every race hands down.The new restaurant in town has the most delicious pizza. It's hands down the best pizza I've ever tasted. 3. TURN A BLIND EYE 視而不見 這則諺語，跟一位英國海軍將領有關，他的名字叫做Horatio Nelson。本身活躍於法國大革命與拿破崙戰爭時期。這時期的英國坐擁了海上霸權的地位，然而他們越想鞏固這個位子，就越擔心周邊的鄰國強盛起來，加上當時英法兩國時常出現軍事對抗，英國就更擔心其他國家成為法國的同盟國。 當時北歐跟俄羅斯有一個組織叫做第二次武裝中立聯盟（Second League of Armed Neutrality）目的是為了保護中立國在海上的貨運暢通，不會受到英法任何一方的阻撓。不過當初英國海軍比較神經質一點，他們為了阻斷任何有可能提供給法國人的資源，會嚴格搜查有出入過法國港口的中立船隻，看看他們有沒有貿易往來，主觀認定下，如果有，那就會扣押船上的貨物。 這就讓北方聯盟很困擾，畢竟人家還是要賺錢生存的，因此有些中立國就對英國的行為相當感冒。1801年，英國就以第二次武裝中立聯盟可能跟法國結盟為理由，出兵攻打了丹麥王國，迫使他們退出聯盟。 然而丹麥王國不理會英國的最後通牒，雙方就在海上開戰，而領軍的將領，就包含了前面提到的Horatio Nelson。Horatio Nelson身經百戰，但他曾在一場戰役中失去自一隻眼睛，隨著兩方激烈交戰，Nelson的上司擔心英國海軍前線寡不敵眾，因此要求Nelson撤軍。 此時Nelson默默地將望遠鏡放在它那個失明的眼睛上，並說出了一段最經典的話：「"I have the right to be blind sometimes. I really do not see the signal」 很明顯，他是有點故意違背命令的，後來Nelson將戰局逆轉，擊敗了丹麥的艦隊。這時期的丹麥王國，包含了丹麥以及挪威，後續因為跟英國又打起來，戰敗之後，丹麥王國所幸投靠拿破崙，結果拿破崙後來慘遭滑鐵盧，身為戰敗國又鬧飢荒，丹麥王國於是將挪威割讓出去給瑞典。後續丹麥在1848年發生丹麥革命，國家也開始從君主專制走向現在的君主立憲制。 "To turn a blind eye" is an English idiom that means to intentionally ignore or disregard something, usually an undesirable or inappropriate action, without taking any action or intervening. Example sentences:The teacher decided to turn a blind eye to the students' whispering during the test.The government officials were suspected of turning a blind eye to the corruption happening within their department.

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments 每日英語跟讀 Ep.K580: Twitter's Inactive Account Purge Sparks Grief and Outrage Among Users Twitter's recent decision to purge inactive accounts, including those belonging to deceased individuals, has triggered anger and heartache among users who relied on these accounts to remember their loved ones. Emily Reed, who lost her sister Jessica over a decade ago, used Jessica's Twitter page as a way to keep her memory alive. However, with Twitter's new policy, Jessica's account has been removed, leaving Emily and others devastated. 推特最近決定清理閒置帳戶，包括已故人士的帳戶，這引發了依賴這些帳戶緬懷故人的用戶的憤怒和傷痛。艾蜜莉·里德（Emily Reed）在十多年前失去了妹妹潔西卡，她使用潔西卡的推特頁面來紀念她。然而，根據推特的新政策，潔西卡的帳戶已被刪除，令艾蜜莉和其他人感到心碎。 Last week, Elon Musk, the owner of Twitter, announced the platform's plan to remove accounts that have been inactive for several years. This move has sparked an outcry from individuals who fear losing the thoughts and words of their deceased loved ones, which were linked to these now-inactive accounts. Emily Reed, like many others, was shocked to find Jessica's page replaced with an "account suspended" message, indicating a possible violation of Twitter's rules. 上週，推特的經營者伊隆·馬斯克（Elon Musk）宣布了該平台將清理多年未使用帳戶的計劃。這一舉動引起了用戶的強烈抗議，他們擔心再度失去已逝親友在閒置帳戶的想法和文字。像許多人一樣，艾蜜莉·里德發現潔西卡的頁面被替換為“帳戶被暫停”的消息時感到震驚，這通常意味著違反了推特的規則。 The advent of social media has introduced a new way for people to mourn and connect with the memories of their friends and family. Social media platforms have grappled with the challenge of addressing the needs of grieving individuals. While Twitter's attempt to purge inactive accounts is not the first, the backlash it has faced highlights the significance of these digital footprints in the grieving process. 社群媒體的出現為人們哀悼和追憶朋友和家人的方式帶來了新的可能。社群平台一直在努力應對悲傷者的需求。雖然推特清理閒置帳戶的嘗試已不是第一次，但這次面臨的抵制凸顯了這些數位足跡在療傷階段中的重要性。 Other social media sites, such as Facebook and Instagram, have implemented measures to accommodate those who have lost loved ones. They allow users to request account deactivation or memorialization, with memorialized accounts displaying the word "Remembering" next to the person's name. Professor Shira Gabriel, a psychology expert, emphasizes the importance of digital footprints in processing grief and uniting communities in remembrance. Losing these resources can evoke a renewed sense of mourning and hinder the ability to gather as a community. 其他社群網站，例如Facebook和Instagram，已經實施措施以滿足失去親人族群的需求。它們允許用戶請求停用帳戶或將其紀念化，紀念化的帳戶會在人名旁邊顯示“追憶”。心理學專家席拉·加布里埃爾（Shira Gabriel）教授強調了數位足跡在處理悲痛和凝聚社群進行紀念的重要性。失去這些資源會重新喚起哀傷感，並阻礙社群的凝聚力。Reference article: https://apnews.com/article/twitter-elon-musk-dead-users-inactive-accounts-49c96ee9c0723a60c82da55f3616c96d

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments 每日英語跟讀 Ep.K579: The Fascinating Tale of the Real-Life Barbie and Ken: From Controversial Figures to Living Dolls Valeria Lukyanova and Justin Jedlica have captured the world's attention by transforming themselves into real-life Barbie and Ken dolls. These individuals have gone to extreme lengths to resemble the iconic plastic couple, but their striking appearances and conflicting personalities have fueled a feud between them. This article delves into the intriguing story behind Valeria Lukyanova, known as the "Human Barbie," and Justin Jedlica, the "Human Ken Doll," shedding light on their motivations and the controversies surrounding their transformations. 瓦萊麗亞·盧基亞諾娃（Valeria Lukyanova）和賈斯汀·傑德利卡（Justin Jedlica）通過將自己變成真人化的芭比和肯尼玩偶吸引了全世界的關注。這兩人竭盡全力使自己能看起來更像這對標誌性的塑膠情侶，但他們引人注目的外貌和相衝的性格導致了他們之間的爭鬥。本文深入探討了被稱為“真人芭比”的瓦萊麗亞·盧基亞諾娃和“真人肯尼”的賈斯汀·傑德利卡的有趣故事，揭露了他們變身的動機以及圍繞於此的爭議。 Valeria Lukyanova, the self-proclaimed "Human Barbie," hails from Tiraspol, Moldova, and is currently a Ukrainian model. While many assume she deliberately aimed to emulate Barbie, Valeria asserts that her goal was simply to embody beauty, femininity, and refinement. Drawing inspiration from dolls, she inadvertently resembles the iconic blonde figure. Despite speculation about extensive cosmetic surgeries, Valeria claims to have undergone only breast augmentation, vehemently denying rumors of rib removal to achieve her impossibly narrow waistline. She has made sensational statements, including aspiring to become a breatharian and proclaiming herself an alien being with past-life experiences as a famous king and spiritual teacher. 自稱為“真人芭比”的瓦萊麗亞·盧基亞諾娃來自摩爾多瓦的提拉斯浦，目前是一名烏克蘭模特兒。雖然很多人認為她刻意模仿芭比，但瓦萊麗亞堅稱她的目標僅僅是體現美麗、女性氣質和優雅。受到玩偶的啟發，她無意間與這個標誌性的金髮人物相似。儘管有關她接受了大量整容手術的猜測，瓦萊麗亞聲稱她只進行了豐胸手術，並極力否認關於她刻意移除肋骨以實現不可思議纖腰的謠言。她曾發表一些駭人聽聞的言論，包括渴望成為食氣者（只靠空氣和陽光維生），並聲稱自己是外星生命體，而前世曾是知名的國王和精神導師。 Justin Jedlica, also known as the "Human Ken Doll," originates from Poughkeepsie, New York. Although he embraces the flattering title, Justin clarifies that his objective was not solely to become Ken. Described as a "plastic-surgery enthusiast," Justin has undergone numerous procedures, including rhinoplasty, chest and shoulder implants, brow lifts, and lip augmentations, among others. His pursuit of self-improvement is driven by a desire to represent the best version of himself. Contrary to popular belief, Justin believes his transformation holds deeper significance beyond superficiality and aesthetics. 賈斯汀·傑德利卡，也被稱為“真人肯尼”，來自紐約州的波啟浦夕市。儘管他接受了這個討喜的稱號，賈斯汀澄清他的目標並不僅僅是成為肯尼。作為一位“整容狂熱者”，賈斯汀接受了眾多的手術，包括隆鼻、隆胸和隆肩手術、提額和豐唇等。他對自我進化的追求源於對展現最好的自己的渴望。與普遍觀點相反，賈斯汀相信他的轉變具有超越表面和美學的深層意義。 Valeria and Justin's clash began when they first met during a TV appearance in 2013. The human Ken doll publicly criticized Valeria, dismissing her as an illusion who dresses like a drag queen despite presenting herself as a real-life Barbie. Justin speculated that Valeria heavily relies on makeup, fake hair, and slimming corsets to achieve her look, suggesting she appears entirely different without these enhancements. Valeria, in turn, retorted that Justin had gone overboard with his lip enhancements. Their ongoing feud underscores the competitive nature of the doll world. 瓦萊麗亞和賈斯汀的衝突始於2013年他們首次在電視節目中相遇。這位真人肯尼公開批評瓦萊麗亞，說儘管她自稱是真人芭比，但不過就是個打扮得像變裝皇后的假貨。賈斯汀猜測瓦萊麗亞嚴重依賴化妝、假髮和束衣來實現她的外觀，暗示她在去掉這些強化的情況下將會完全不同。瓦萊麗亞則回應說賈斯汀的唇部填充過火。他們持續的爭鬥凸顯了玩偶世界的競爭性質。 While Valeria and Justin have attracted both admiration and criticism, it is important to recognize the complexities behind their choices. Their transformations challenge societal beauty standards and raise questions about the motivations behind extreme physical alterations. It is crucial to approach these individuals with empathy and understanding, acknowledging the personal significance they attach to their unique appearances. As the Barbie and Ken dolls continue to shape perceptions of beauty, Valeria Lukyanova and Justin Jedlica serve as captivating examples of individuals who have pursued their distinctive visions of personal transformation, albeit with diverging motivations and perspectives. 瓦萊麗亞和賈斯汀吸引了各種讚賞和批評，但我們需要認識到他們選擇背後的複雜性。他們的轉變挑戰了社會對美的標準，並引發了對極端身體改造背後動機的質疑。我們需要以同理心和理解的態度對待這些人，承認他們對自己獨特外貌的個人意義。隨著芭比和肯尼娃娃持續塑造美的觀念，瓦萊麗亞·盧基亞諾娃和賈斯汀·傑德利卡也成為迷人的例子，他們追求著個人改造的獨特目標—儘管與常見的動機和觀點不太相同。Reference article: https://allthatsinteresting.com/real-life-barbie-and-ken

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments Topic: 對現狀不滿拉美從傾右變傾左 Leftists Replacing Right-Wing Leaders Across Latin America In the final weeks of 2021, Chile and Honduras voted decisively for leftist presidents to replace leaders on the right, extending a significant, multiyear shift across Latin America. 在2021年的最後幾周，智利和宏都拉斯果斷地投票支援 左翼總統取代右翼領導人，延續 了整個拉丁美洲長達數年的重大轉變。 This year, leftist politicians are the favorites to win presidential elections in Colombia and Brazil, taking over from right-wing incumbents, which would put the left and center-left in power in the six largest economies in the region, stretching from Tijuana to Tierra del Fuego. 今年，左翼政客是贏得哥倫比亞和巴西總統選舉的最愛，他們接替了右翼現任者，這將使左翼和中左翼在該地區從蒂華納到火地島的六大經濟體中掌權。 Economic suffering, widening inequality, fervent anti-incumbent sentiment and mismanagement of COVID-19 have all fueled a pendulum swing away from the center-right and right-wing leaders who were dominant a few years ago. 經濟困境、不斷擴大的不平等、狂熱的反現任情緒以及對COVID-19的管理不善，都助長了幾年前佔主導地位的中右翼和右翼領導人的鐘擺擺動。 The left has promised more equitable distribution of wealth, better public services and vastly expanded social safety nets. But the region’s new leaders face serious economic constraints and legislative opposition that could restrict their ambitions — and restive voters who have been willing to punish whoever fails to deliver. 左翼承諾更公平地分配財富，提供更好的公共服務，並大大擴展社會安全網。但該地區的新領導人面臨著嚴重的經濟限制和立法反對，這可能會限制他們的野心-以及願意懲罰任何未能兌現承諾的人的不安分選民。 The left’s gains could buoy China and undermine the United States as they compete for regional influence, analysts say, with a new crop of Latin American leaders who are desperate for economic development and more open to Beijing’s global strategy of offering loans and infrastructure investment. The change could also make it harder for the United States to continue isolating authoritarian leftist regimes in Venezuela, Nicaragua and Cuba. 分析人士說，左翼的收益可能會提振中國，削弱美國，因為他們在爭奪地區影響力時，新一批拉丁美洲領導人迫切希望經濟發展，並對北京的全球戰略持更開放的態度， 提供貸款和 基礎設施投資。這一變化還可能使美國更難繼續孤立委內瑞拉、尼加拉瓜和古巴的獨裁左翼政權。 With rising inflation and stagnant economies, Latin America’s new leaders will find it hard to deliver real change on profound problems, said Pedro Mendes Loureiro, a professor of Latin American studies at the University of Cambridge. To some extent, he said, voters are “electing the left simply because it is the opposition at the moment.” 隨著通貨膨脹率上升和經濟停滯，拉丁美洲的新領導人將發現很難在深刻的問題上實現真正的變革，劍橋大學拉丁美洲研究教授佩德羅·門德斯·洛雷羅（Pedro Mendes Loureiro）說。他說，在某種程度上，選民正在"選舉左翼，僅僅是因為它目前是反對派。" Unlike the early 2000s, when leftists won critical presidencies in Latin America, the new officeholders are saddled by debt, lean budgets, scant access to credit and, in many cases, vociferous opposition. 與2000年代初不同，當時左翼分子在拉丁美洲贏得了關鍵的總統職位 ，而新的官員則背負著債務，預算緊張， 信貸匱乏以及在許多情況下大聲反對的負擔。 Eric Hershberg, director of the Center for Latin American and Latino Studies at American University, said the left’s winning streak is born out of widespread indignation. 美國大學拉丁美洲和拉丁裔研究中心主任埃裡克·赫什伯格（Eric Hershberg ）表示，左翼的連勝源於 廣泛的憤怒。 “This is really about lower-middle-class and working-class sectors saying, ‘Thirty years into democracy, and we still have to ride a decrepit bus for two hours to get to a bad health clinic,’”Hershberg said. "這實際上是關於中下層階層和工人階層部門說，'民主三十年後，我們仍然必須乘坐破舊的公共汽車兩個小時才能到達一個糟糕的健康診所，'"赫什伯格說。Source article: https://udn.com/news/story/6904/6092284 Next Article Topic : Venezuela, Once an Oil Giant, Reaches the End of an Era For the first time in a century, there are no rigs searching for oil in Venezuela. 百年來，委內瑞拉首次沒有鑽油平台在鑽探石油。 Wells that once tapped the world’s largest crude reserves are abandoned or left to flare toxic gases that cast an orange glow over depressed oil towns. 曾自全球最大原油礦藏採油的油井，不是廢棄，就是任由洩漏的毒性氣體逕自燃燒，使附近蕭條的石油城鎮蒙上一層橘光。 Refineries that once processed oil for export are rusting hulks, leaking crude that blackens shorelines and coats the water in an oily sheen. 先前把石油加工出口的煉油廠成了生鏽的殘骸，洩漏的原油染黑了海岸線，並在海面形成一層油光。 Fuel shortages have brought the country to a standstill. At gas stations, lines go on for miles. 燃料短缺使這個國家陷入癱瘓。在加油站，排隊加油的車輛綿延數哩。 Venezuela’s colossal oil sector, which shaped the country and the international energy market for a century, has come to a near halt, with production reduced to a trickle by years of gross mismanagement and U.S. sanctions. The collapse is leaving behind a destroyed economy and a devastated environment and, many analysts say, bringing to an end the era of Venezuela as an energy powerhouse. 委內瑞拉龐大的石油業曾形塑這個國家和國際能源市場長達百年，如今卻幾近停頓，由於多年來管理不善和遭受美國制裁，產量只剩一丁點。石油業崩潰導致經濟慘淡，環境重創，且如許多分析家所言，為委國作為能源大國的時代畫下句點。 The country that a decade ago was the largest producer in Latin America, earning about $90 billion a year from oil exports, is expected to net about $2.3 billion by this year’s end — less than the aggregate amount that Venezuelan migrants who fled the country’s economic devastation will send back home to support their families, according to Pilar Navarro, a Caracas, Venezuela-based economist. 長駐委國首都卡拉卡斯的經濟學家納瓦洛說，當地10年前是拉丁美洲最大產油國，每年出口石油

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments Reference article: https://englishwithatwist.com/2016/11/24/meetings_diplomatic-language_part-1/ Let’s take a look at some situations where diplomatic language would be important if you were doing business in English.Giving bad newsMaking requestsGiving a commandMaking an objectionNegotiatingMaking suggestionsBlaming someone 1. Using softeners 軟性用詞 This is direct with no apology for giving bad news. If you were delivering this to a superior or a client this would sound harsh. I have to cancel the meeting.I’m afraid I have to cancel the meeting.I’m so sorry but I have to cancel the meeting.Unfortunately, something’s come up and I have to cancel the meeting.2. Modal Verbs 情態動詞 Imagine you are giving an order or making a request, using modal verbs like would, could, may or might would be of huge help. Making a RequestI want more time. (rather demanding)Try this insteadI could do with more time.It would be so helpful to have more time. Giving an orderGive me an answer by tomorrow (how rude!)Try this instead:Could you give me an answer by tomorrow? (much better) 3. Rephrasing a negative sentence 重新思考負面句子 You can rephrase a negative sentence to make it sound more positive.I’m afraid I haven’t finished the report. The use of ‘I’m afraid’ softens the bad news but we can soften it even more by doing this.I’m afraid I’ve not been able to finish the report yet.Using be able highlights your attempt to finish the report was stopped by circumstances beyond your control, for example, heavy workload, awaiting more data and so on, and NOT by your failure. Using the word ‘yet’ emphasises your willingness to finish the report and that you’re still working on it. Negative sentences formed with can’t or won’t can make you as a speaker sound especially unhelpful and negative.I can’t deliver the goods on time.I won’t have the report ready by then.Try this insteadI won’t be able to have the report ready by then.I’m not in a position to say when the goods will be delivered.I’m not able to say when the goods will be delivered. 4. Using qualifiers 修飾詞 Other examples of qualifiers that can make great softeners are: a little, a bit, a little bit, slight, slightly, small, one or two. These qualifiers will help you especially when you have to give bad news to your superiors or a client.We are having problems with the new medical device.We are having one or two problems with the new product.Try sayingWe’re going to run over budgetWe’re going to run slightly over budget.The launch plans are behind schedule.The launch plans are a little bit behind schedule. 5. Negative Question Forms 轉換負面問句 Questions can often come off as strong language and can be interpreted the wrong way. Suggestions delivered in this way:We should change the wording of the investment warning in our brochures. Instead, we should say this:Shouldn’t we change the wording of the investment warning in our brochures?  分享時間: Try and soften the following:I am not done with the report / How can I finish if I don't have time?You should have made better planning / It is not going to work.The client is upset with the order / There is nothing I can do.I need more time! / Why didn't you check the documents?

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments 每日英語跟讀 Ep.K578: King Charles Expresses Gratitude as Coronation Celebrations Conclude King Charles expressed his heartfelt appreciation to all those involved in his coronation weekend, pledging a life of service alongside his wife, Camilla. The three-day extravaganza culminated in a magnificent coronation ceremony at Westminster Abbey, marking the grandest ceremonial event in Britain in 70 years. 查爾斯國王對參與他的加冕週末的所有人表示衷心的感謝，並承諾與妻子卡蜜拉一起奉獻一生。為期三天的盛會在西敏寺的加冕典禮中達到高潮，標誌著英國70年來最盛大的儀式活動。 In a statement echoing Queen Elizabeth's Platinum Jubilee message, King Charles and Camilla reaffirmed their commitment to serving the people. "As the Coronation weekend draws to a close, my wife and I wanted to extend our sincere and heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to making this occasion truly special," said King Charles. He expressed gratitude to those who made the weekend a success and commended the participants who joined in the celebrations. He added, "Your support, encouragement, and acts of kindness have been the most precious gifts, inspiring us to rededicate our lives to serving the people of the United Kingdom, the Realms, and the Commonwealth." 在一份回應伊麗莎白女王白金禧年訊息的聲明中，查爾斯國王和卡蜜拉重申了他們對服務人民的承諾。查理國王表示：“隨著加冕週末即將結束，我妻子和我想向所有為這個特殊場合作出貢獻的人致以最真摯和衷心的謝意。”他對使這個週末成事的人表示感激，並讚揚參與慶典的人。他補充說：“你們的支持、鼓勵和善行是最寶貴的禮物，激勵我們重新奉獻自己的生活來服務英國、其屬地和英聯邦的人民。” Accompanying the statement were four official photos featuring King Charles, Camilla, and members of the royal family. The festivities included a remarkable "Coronation Concert" at Windsor, where the royal couple joined a crowd of 20,000 attendees. The concert featured renowned singers Lionel Richie and Katy Perry, and an amusing comedy sketch surprised the audience as Charles and Camilla interacted with the performers. 聲明附帶了四張官方照片，展示了查爾斯國王、卡蜜拉和皇室成員。慶典包括在溫莎舉行的“加冕音樂會”，皇室夫婦與二萬名觀眾共同參加。音樂會特邀了著名歌手萊諾李奇和凱蒂佩芮，而一個有趣的喜劇小品則讓查爾斯和卡蜜拉與演出者互動，令現場觀眾驚喜萬分。 Concluding the extended weekend of street parties and celebrations, thousands of organizations came together on Monday to participate in the "The Big Help Out" volunteering program. Prince William and Kate, along with their children, visited a scout group in Slough, near Windsor, for their first official engagement with their youngest son, Louis. Under his father's supervision, the enthusiastic Louis eagerly participated in various activities. 延續了一個週末的街頭派對和慶典，數千家機構於星期一聚集在一起，參與了名為「大幫助計畫（The Big Help Out）」的志願服務活動。威廉王子和凱特夫婦與他們的孩子一起訪問了溫莎附近的斯勞童子軍團，這是他們與年幼的兒子路易的首次正式亮相。在父親的陪伴監督下，熱情洋溢的路易積極地參與了各種活動。 The coronation ceremony of King Charles III showcased a breathtaking blend of centuries-old tradition and the aspirations of a new era. The solemn two-hour service at Westminster Abbey, witnessed by an esteemed congregation of around 100 world leaders and watched by millions globally, saw King Charles receive the St Edward's Crown. Camilla, his second wife, was also crowned queen. The ceremony aimed to pay tribute to history while embracing a more diverse and forward-looking institution. 國王查爾斯三世的加冕典禮展示了幾個世紀以來的傳統與新世代抱負驚人的融合。在西敏寺隆重舉辦的兩小時儀式上，約有100位世界領袖見證，全球數百萬人觀看，查爾斯國王接受了聖愛德華王冠。卡蜜拉作為他的第二任妻子，也同時被冊封為王后。這個典禮旨在向歷史致敬，同時擁抱一個更多元和前瞻的制度。 Prime Minister Rishi Sunak lauded the extraordinary spectacle, stating, "Over the weekend, no other country in the world could have put on such a dazzling display." Supporters of the royal family emphasize their international appeal, diplomatic significance, and ability to uphold the nation's global standing amidst political uncertainties, such as the post-Brexit era. 英國首相蘇納克讚揚了這個非凡壯觀的場面，他說：“在這個週末，世界上其他任何國家都無法呈現如此耀眼的表演。”皇室的支持者強調他們的國際吸引力、外交意義以及在政治不確定性時期（如脫歐後）維護英國在全球地位的能力。 The coronation event, despite occurring amid a cost of living crisis and public skepticism, underscored the enduring role and relevance of the monarchy. King Charles, who ascended the throne upon the passing of Queen Elizabeth, acknowledged the challenges ahead. The event seamlessly intertwined historical regalia with elements reflecting the country's diversity and cultural evolution, affirming the monarchy's adaptability and continued significance. 儘管這場加冕儀式是在民生水平高漲危機和公眾懷疑的背景下舉行，它仍然彰顯了君主制的持久角色和相關性。查爾斯國王在伊麗莎白女王離世後即位，並接受他要面臨的挑戰。這個活動巧妙地將歷史傳統與反映該國多樣性和文化演進的元素融合在一起，肯定了君主制的適應性和持續的重要性。Reference article:https://www.reuters.com/world/uk/coronation-brimming-with-history-king-charles-britain-look-future-2023-05-05/ ; https://www.reuters.com/world/uk/great-treat-king-charles-heralds-weekend-coronation-celebrations-2023-05-08/

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments 每日英語跟讀 Ep.K577: Coldplay's Demand Soars: Additional Show Added in Kaohsiung British rock band Coldplay has responded to the overwhelming demand for their concert tickets by adding a second show in Kaohsiung on November 12. The band's Asia leg of the world tour has generated an incredible level of interest, leading the organizers to accommodate more fans. Yesterday, the concert organizer, Live Nation Taiwan, made the announcement, delighting Coldplay enthusiasts. 英國搖滾樂團酷玩樂團對於其演唱會門票的需求激增作出回應，並決定11月12日在高雄加開一場演出。該樂團的亞洲巡演引起了極大的關注，使得主辦單位需要容納更多粉絲。昨天，演唱會主辦方「Live Nation Taiwan 理想國」宣布了加開的好消息，令酷玩樂團的狂熱粉們感到欣喜。 The presale for the initial November 11 show concluded, and general ticket sales for both concerts at Kaohsiung National Stadium on Ticketmaster's website. To ensure accessibility to as many fans as possible, both shows in Kaohsiung will offer limited "Infinity Tickets" in the upcoming days. Priced at NT$800, these special tickets aim to provide an affordable option for fans. Each purchaser can buy a maximum of two tickets, which must be purchased as a pair. 11月11日場次的預售票已經結束，而兩場演出的普通票將在Ticketmaster的網站上開始公開售票。為了讓更多粉絲能夠買到門票，高雄的兩場演出將在接下來的幾天推出限量的「無限門票」。這種特別門票售價為台幣800元，旨在為粉絲提供一個負擔得起的選擇。每位購票人最多可以買兩張門票，並且必須成對購買。 Coldplay's "Music of the Spheres World Tour" will commence in Asia and Australia, starting with two shows in Tokyo on November 6 and 7, followed by the two performances in Kaohsiung. Jakarta, Perth, and Kuala Lumpur are also included in the band's tour itinerary in Asia and Australia. This upcoming tour marks the band's second visit to Taiwan, with their first performance held in Taoyuan in 2017. 酷玩樂團的「音樂天球世界巡演」將在亞洲和澳洲展開，首站將在11月6日和7日的東京舉行，之後是在高雄的兩場演出。雅加達、伯斯和吉隆坡也包含在樂團的亞洲和澳洲巡演行程中。這次即將開始的巡演將是該樂團第二次訪問台灣，他們2017年時曾在桃園舉行過一場演出。 The Ministry of Culture has highlighted the importance of the second Coldplay concert as an opportunity for authorities and concert organizers to tackle the issue of ticket scalping. The recent surge in art and cultural events following the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions has led to rampant scalping, depriving regular concertgoers of the chance to secure tickets. The ministry aims to implement measures to prevent such practices and ensure a fair ticketing process for all fans. 文化部強調酷玩樂團第二場演唱會的重要性，這是當局和音樂會主辦單位應對黃牛票問題的機會。近期隨著COVID-19限制解除，藝術和文化活動急劇增加，黃牛票問題也隨之猖獗，使得一般的演唱會觀眾買不到門票。文化部致力於實施措施防止此類行為，並確保所有粉絲都能享有公平的購票過程。 In conclusion, Coldplay's decision to add another show in Kaohsiung due to the incredible demand showcases their popularity in Taiwan. With the introduction of "Infinity Tickets" and measures against ticket scalping, the band aims to make their world tour more accessible and enjoyable for their loyal fans. 總結來說，酷玩樂團因需求遽增而決定在高雄加開演出，展示了他們在台灣的受歡迎程度。通過推出「無限門票」等打擊黃牛票的措施，該樂團目標是使忠實粉絲更容易取得和享受他們的世界巡演。Reference article: https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2023/05/18/2003800017

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments Summary: 討論文章: https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2023/05/08/2003799372 This is part II, a continuation of our discussion from last week. This week, Angel and I talk about how important travel insurance is! 歡迎投稿有趣的主題給醬老師與Angel老師 Comment down below! Vocabulary: 1. Peace of mind idiom. 心情平靜／安心 Purchasing extra travel insurance is mostly for a peace of mind. 添購旅平險多數是為了心安。 2. Compensation n. 賠償/報酬 Airlines usually provide compensation for flight delays, and not refund. 航空公司通常提供賠償而不是退費。 3. Cover v. 承保/有給付 Your travel insurance would cover all the expenses that arise from flight delays or cancellations. 你的旅平險會給付班機延誤或取消所多出的費用。 更多Vocab Podcast節目: https://www.15mins.today/vocab 歡迎主題投稿/意見回覆 : [email protected] 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected]

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments 每日英語跟讀 Ep.K576: Man Makes Money Eating Ribeye Steak in the Shower Gaz, a man from Atlanta, America, has gained popularity on Twitter after revealing that he eats his meals in the shower. He discovered that he could save time and cure his hangovers by eating breakfast in the shower. Now, he shares his odd eating habits on Twitter and sometimes receives donations from fans to eat specific items, earning him $130 in donations so far. 一名叫做Gaz的美國亞特蘭大男子在推特上因在浴室進食而成為熱門話題。他發現在浴室吃早餐可以節省時間並治療宿醉。現在，他在推特上分享他奇特的進食習慣，有時還會收到粉絲的斗內（捐款）讓他進食特定的物品，目前已經賺到了130美元。 Gaz's Twitter post about eating a 32oz Tomahawk ribeye steak in the shower received 1.1 million views and over 27,000 likes. In the picture, Gaz can be seen holding a huge steak with a bite taken out of it. Despite many users left confused, Gaz's bizarre eating habits have gained a lot of attention. Gaz在推特上貼出了一張自己在浴室吃掉32盎司的戰斧肋眼牛排照片，獲得了110萬的點擊和超過27,000個讚。在照片中，可以看到Gaz拿著一塊巨大的牛排，上面已經被咬了一口。儘管許多用戶因為Gaz的奇特飲食習慣感到困惑，但也因此引起了許多關注。 Gaz's posts also include eating a pineapple and a shrimp platter, which have received a lot of views and likes. However, he claims that the steak was his favourite meal to date. He is now looking to try more exotic and expensive foods, such as caviar and gold-plated steaks, and is hoping to collaborate with brands and chefs. Gaz的貼文還包括吃鳳梨和一盤蝦子，這些貼文都獲得了很多點擊和讚。然而，他聲稱肋眼牛排是迄今為止他最喜歡的食物。他現在希望嘗試更多異國料理和昂貴的美食，例如魚子醬和金箔牛排，並希望與其他的品牌和廚師合作。 Aside from his unusual eating habits, Gaz is also using his platform to spread awareness about food insecurity and has donated $100 to the Atlanta Food Bank. He encourages others to donate their time or money to local food banks and help fight against food insecurity. 除了他不尋常的飲食習慣外，Gaz也運用他的平台宣傳了糧食不足的議題，並向亞特蘭大食物銀行捐贈了100美元。他鼓勵人們捐出他們的時間或金錢支持當地的食物銀行，幫助對抗糧食不足。 Reference article: https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/us-news/man-gets-paid-eat-ribeye-29902479

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments 每日英語跟讀 Ep.K575: Flight Delayed for Three Hours as Bees Swarm on Plane's Wing A flight from Houston to Atlanta was delayed for about three hours due to an unexpected occurrence of thousands of bees swarming on the wing of the airplane. The incident was captured and shared on social media by passenger Anjali Enjeti. 因為數千隻的蜜蜂在飛機機翼上聚集，一班由休斯頓飛往亞特蘭大的航班延誤了約三個小時。此事件被乘客安賈莉恩傑蒂（Anjali Enjeti）紀錄並分享到社交媒體上。 According to Enjeti, the bees congregated on the tip of one of the wings, causing the airline to delay boarding until the bees could be removed. However, the beekeeper was not allowed to touch the plane, and pest control was not permitted to spray the bees. The airport was also unable to use a hose to spray the wing with water. 恩傑蒂表示，蜜蜂群聚集在一架飛機翼尖上，導致航空公司延遲登機，直到蜜蜂被清除為止。然而，蜜蜂飼養員不被允許接觸飛機，且不允許害蟲控制部門噴灑殺蟲劑。機場也無法使用水管噴灑水來清理機翼。 Fortunately, the bees dispersed on their own once the plane's engine was turned on, allowing the flight to proceed after a delay of three hours. Delta Air Lines officials later made a statement, saying that the bees appeared to want to "talk shop" with the winglet of the plane, possibly to exchange information about the flying conditions at the airport. 幸運的是，在飛機引擎啟動之後，蜜蜂隨即自行散去，航班行程在延誤了三個小時後得以繼續。達美 航空的官員稍後發表聲明，稱蜜蜂似乎想與飛機翼端“談生意”，可能是為了交換有關機場飛行條件的信息。 While the situation was unexpected and caused a significant delay, it highlights the importance of understanding and respecting the environment around us. As we continue to travel, we need to remain mindful of the impact our actions have on the world around us. Bees play a vital role in our ecosystem, and we must do our part in preserving their habitat and well-being. 儘管這種情況十分出乎意料，並且導致了明顯的延誤，但這也突出了我們理解和尊重周圍環境的重要性。隨著我們繼續旅行，我們需要保持警覺，了解我們的行為對周圍世界的影響。蜜蜂在生態系統中扮演著重要的角色，我們必須盡自己的一份力來保護它們的棲息地和福祉。 In conclusion, while the incident may have caused inconvenience and frustration for passengers, it reminds us to remain respectful of our environment and the creatures that inhabit it. Despite the delay, the passengers reached their destination safely, and hopefully, the bees found a new home to continue their important work. 總之，儘管這件事可能對乘客造成了不便和挫折，但也提醒了我們要尊重周圍的環境和居住於此的生物。儘管航班延遲了，乘客們仍然安全到達了目的地，希望蜜蜂也能找到一個新的家，繼續他們的重要工作。 Reference article: https://www.upi.com/Odd_News/2023/05/04/bees-Bush-Airport-Houston-Delta-flight-delayed/8021683215726/

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments Topic: About scientific research - Certain Junk Foods Could Be Messing With Your Brain’s Appetite Control, Study Finds Emerging evidence in humans suggests a typically Western high-fat, high-sugar ’junk food’ diet can quickly undermine your brain’s appetite control. 在人類中新發現的證據顯示，含有高脂高糖「垃圾食物」的典型西方飲食，可以快速破壞大腦對食慾的控制。 After indulging in a week-long binge of waffles, milkshakes and similarly rich foods, researchers in Australia found young and healthy volunteers scored worse on memory tests and experienced a greater desire to eat junk food, even when they were already full. 狂吃鬆餅、奶昔和類似的高脂食物一週後，澳洲研究人員發現，年輕健康的志願者在記憶力測試中成績欠佳，而且對垃圾食物更有食慾，甚至在吃飽之後還想吃。 The findings suggest something is amiss in the hippocampus - a region of the brain that supports memory and helps to regulate appetite. When we are full, the hippocampus is thought to quieten down our memories of delicious food, thereby reducing our appetite. 研究結果顯示問題出在海馬體，這個區域在大腦中支援記憶力，協助調節食慾。我們吃飽之後，海馬體被認為會使美食記憶不再活躍，從而降低食慾。 When it’s disrupted, this control can be seriously undermined. 當海馬體受到擾亂，對食慾的控制也會受到嚴重破壞。 Over the years, extensive research on juvenile mice has found the function of the hippocampus is very sensitive to ’junk food’ , but this has only recently been observed in young and healthy humans. 近年來對幼鼠進行的廣泛研究發現，海馬體對「垃圾食物」很敏感，但最近才在年輕健康的人群中發現這一問題。 Next Article Topic: Squatting or kneeling is better for your posture than sitting all day, anthropologists claim 人類學家：蹲姿或跪姿比坐一整天來得好 Resting postures such as squatting or kneeling may be better for health because they require more muscle activity than sitting on a chair, researchers claim. 研究人員聲稱，蹲或跪這類休息姿勢也許更有益於身體健康，因為它們比坐在椅子上需要更多的肌肉活動。 The findings are based on data gathered from a hunter-gatherer population in Tanzania who wore devices that measured physical activity as well as periods of rest. 這些發現是根據從坦尚尼亞一個狩獵採集部落收集來的數據，這個部落的人佩戴裝置來測量他們的體力活動和休息時間。 Anthropologists from the US found that despite being sedentary for almost 10 hours each day, equivalent to clocking a shift in the office at the desk, the Hazda people appeared to lack the markers of chronic diseases associated with long periods of sitting. 美國的人類學家發現，儘管哈茲達部落的人每天靜止不動的時間將近10個小時，相當於在辦公桌前上一天班，但他們似乎並未出現久坐帶來的慢性病跡象。 They believe this is down to the ‘active rest postures’ used by the tribe. 他們相信，這歸結於該部落使用的「主動休息姿勢」。 Source article: https://features.ltn.com.tw/english/article/paper/1368761 ; https://features.ltn.com.tw/english/article/paper/1367176 Next Article Topic: Aboriginal canoe sets out on voyage to Japan for research An Aboriginal Amis canoe is set to sail from Taiwan’s Taitung County to Japan’s Yonaguni Island some time between Monday and July 13. Organized by Taiwan’s National Museum of Prehistory and Japan’s National Museum of Nature and Science (NMNS), the voyage is part of the NMNS’ research on people’s movement from Taiwan to Japan in ancient times. 一艘原住民阿美族的獨木舟，預計在週一至七月十三日間，從台灣的台東縣航向日本的與那國島。該活動是由國立台灣史前文化博物館，及日本的國立科學博物館合辦，此航行是科博館研究的一部分，旨在探討古代人們從台灣到日本的遷徙活動。 According to archaeologists, some of the early inhabitants of Japan most likely traveled from Taiwan to the Ryukyu Islands on similar wooden vessels during the Paleolithic, about 30,000 years ago. The canoe will have to cross the Kuroshio Current (the Black Current) and travel around 205km to Yonaguni Island, Japan’s westernmost island in Okinawa Prefecture. 根據考古學家們指出，日本的某些早期居民，極有可能是搭乘著類似的木筏，自台灣來到沖繩列島，當時大約是距今三萬年的舊石器時代。這艘獨木舟必須跨越「黑潮」洋流，航行約兩百零五公里至沖繩縣、位於全日本最西端的與那國島。 The research team failed to complete a voyage on an Amis bamboo raft last year and the year before that, because the boats used were not strong enough for the big waves. This time around, a canoe made of cedar will be used in the adventure, which is expected to take 2 to 3 days. 研究團隊去年、前年均嘗試以阿美族竹筏渡海，但因竹筏不夠堅固無法抵擋大浪沖擊，最終挑戰失敗。本次冒險則改用以雪松打造的獨木舟，預計需二到三天才能完成整趟航程。 Source article: http://www.taipeitimes.com/News/lang/archives/2019/06/20/2003717213 Next Article Topic: Researchers ‘reboot’ pig brains hours after animals died The brains of decapitated pigs can be partially revived several hours after the animal has died, researchers have revealed, with some of the functions of cells booted back up when an oxygen-rich fluid is circulated through the organ. 研究人員近日指出，宰殺後的豬隻大腦在死亡數個小時之後，仍然可以被「部分復甦」──藉由一種富含氧氣的液體在器官中進行循環，死亡豬隻的腦細胞部分功能被重新啟動。 The scientists stress that the brains do not show any signs of consciousness — for example, there was no sign that different parts of the brain were sending signals to each other — and that it does not change the definition of death. “This is not a living brain. But it is a cellularly active brain,” said Prof Nenad Sestan from Yale University, who led the research. 科學家強調，實驗中的大腦並未顯示任何具有意識的徵兆──舉例而言，大腦不同部位並沒有出現互相傳遞訊號的跡象──而這項實驗也並未改變死亡的定義。耶魯大學的內納德‧塞斯坦教授是這篇研究的主持人，他表示：「這並不代表它是一個活的大腦，但確實是一個就細胞層面而言仍在活動中的大腦。」 A number of studies have suggested brain cells might not inevitably die after blood stops circulating. Writing in the journal Nature, researchers in t

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments Other ways to say: ANGRY Enraged 觸怒 He was enraged at the article about him. Furious 惱怒/狂怒 They were furious at not being invited to the party. Mad 憤怒 Bill's untidiness drives me mad. Fed up 夠了 She'd got fed up with waiting and gone home. Cross 生氣的 I'm cross with her for lying. Other ways to say: SAY (Said) Tell (Told) 告訴/說 He told me to go away. Mention (Mentioned) 談起/說到 I'll mention it to her when I see her tomorrow. Answer (Answered) 回答 I don't know, she answered truthfully. Add (Added) 補充 I should add that I am not happy about this decision. Declare (Declared) 宣告 I'm leaving tomorrow; James suddenly declared. State (Stated) 正式宣言 He stated that the project would be completed by April. Announce (Announced) 發布/公告 Bill suddenly announced he was taking the day off, 分享時間:Tell a personal experience related to a situation where you would use “angry” and “say”Pick 4 words and make sentences

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments 每日英語跟讀 Ep.K574: Panasonic delays production of Tesla's 4680 battery cells for performance improvements Panasonic, the Japanese supplier for Tesla, announced on Wednesday that it will delay the commercial production of its 4680 battery cells until the April to September period in 2024, as it aims to enhance their performance. The company had previously planned to begin volume production for Tesla between April 2023 to March 2024. The delay is due to the introduction of performance improvement measures that will enhance competitiveness, according to Panasonic's earnings presentation materials. 作為特斯拉的日本供應商，松下宣布將推遲4680電池的商業生產至2024年4月至9月期間，以提高其性能。公司此前計劃在2023年4月至2024年3月期間為特斯拉開始量產。根據松下的收益報告材料，此次推遲是為了引入性能改進措施，進一步提高競爭力。 The 4680 battery cells are key to making cheaper and compelling electric cars and have been championed by Tesla CEO Elon Musk. Although Tesla is already producing the cells at its California and Texas factories, the carmaker struggled to meet its targets for production and performance. Tesla executive Drew Baglino revealed in a recent conference call that the company plans to steadily ramp production of the cells ahead of Cybertruck production next year, with over 1,000 cars per week produced by the end of 2022. 4680電池是製造更便宜且引人注目的電動汽車的關鍵，也是特斯拉執行長馬斯克（Elon Musk）所強推的計畫。儘管特斯拉已經在其加州和德克薩斯州工廠生產這些電池，但該公司在生產和性能方面遇到了困難。特斯拉高管德魯巴格利諾（Drew Baglino）在最近的一次電話會議上透露，該公司計劃在明年Cybertruck生產之前逐步提高電池的生產量，到2022年底每周生產超過1,000輛車。 Panasonic is currently running a pilot 4680 production line at its Wakayama factory in Japan. Tesla uses the cells in its base Model Y, and LG Energy Solution, Tesla's South Korean supplier, also plans to set up a new 4680 production line at its domestic factory by the end of this year. However, the company has not announced when the batteries will start volume production. 松下目前正在日本的和歌山工廠進行4680電池的試產。特斯拉在其基本款Model Y中使用這些電池，而特斯拉的韓國供應商LG能源解決方案也計劃在年底前在國內工廠設立新的4680生產線，然而，該公司目前尚未宣布這種電池何時開始量產。 Reference article: https://www.reuters.com/technology/panasonic-delays-production-new-tesla-battery-improve-performance-2023-05-10/

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments 每日英語跟讀 Ep.K573: 500 Pounds of Pasta Dumped in the Woods of a New Jersey Town Residents of Old Bridge, New Jersey were surprised when 500 pounds of dry, uncooked pasta were found dumped in a wooded area of the town. The incident, which happened on the banks of the Iresick Brook, led to a public works crew having to clear up the mounds of macaroni. Despite the bizarre nature of the incident, Old Bridge Mayor Owen Henry was pleased that the dumped material was not more harmful, such as tires or mattresses. 新澤西州舊橋鎮（Old Bridge）的居民們感到驚訝，因為他們在鎮上的一個樹林裡發現了500磅的未煮乾麵條。此事件發生在Iresick Brook的河岸，導致公共工程人員不得不清理這些成堆的麵條。儘管事件本身的性質很怪，但舊橋鎮鎮長Owen Henry還是為了被傾倒的物質並不會像輪胎或床墊之類，對環境造成更多的傷害感到欣慰。 The pasta had been dumped by a man who was cleaning out the home of his late parents on Hillyard Road. The couple apparently believed in keeping their pantry fully stocked. The pasta was dry and uncooked when it was discarded, but it was turned al dente when two inches of rain fell on central New Jersey on April 22-23. 這些麵條是由一名男子傾倒的，當時他正在清理已故父母在Hillyard路上的房屋。這對夫婦顯然認為必須保持他們的儲藏室有充足的儲備。這些麵條被丟棄時是乾的且未煮過，但在4月22日至23日紐澤西中部下了兩英寸的雨後，它就變得既彈牙又有嚼勁了。 The incident highlights a wider problem of illegal dumping in rural areas. Mayor Owen Henry took the opportunity to call on residents not to dump their unwanted items in the woods. He pointed out that many items could be taken to recycling centers and that it made no sense to throw away items such as electronics, rugs, and metal. Henry acknowledged that Old Bridge regularly has issues with people illegally dumping waste in isolated areas. 此事件凸顯了鄉村地區非法傾倒的廣泛議題。Owen Henry鎮長趁機呼籲居民不要在樹林中傾倒他們不需要的物品。他指出，許多物品可以送到回收中心，而把電子產品、地毯和金屬等物品扔到樹林中毫無意義。Henry承認，舊橋鎮經常有人們在偏僻處非法傾倒廢棄物的問題。 While the pasta dumper could be cited, Mayor Henry said the police would not actively pursue the case. Despite the illegality of the dumping, the incident was not hazardous, and there were more pressing issues for the detective bureau to focus on. Owen Henry was pleased that the incident was not worse, and he was happy to take on the task of clearing up the discarded pasta. 雖然可以對傾倒麵條的人提出指控，但Henry鎮長表示，警方不會積極追查此案。儘管傾倒是非法的，但這件事並不危險，而且偵查局有更緊迫的問題需要處理。Owen Henry很欣慰事件沒有更糟的發展，相比之下他很樂意去清理被丟棄的麵條。 Reference article: https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/500-pounds-pasta-mysteriously-dumped-woods-new-jersey-town-rcna83084

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments Summary: 討論文章: https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2023/05/08/2003799372 Starlux flight delay in Narita airport was the hot topic for netizens this week. Passengers were stranded on the airplane for hours and later forced to stay camp out at the airport overnight. This week, Angel and I brainstorm what we should do getting stranded at the airport! 歡迎投稿有趣的主題給醬老師與Angel老師 Comment down below! Vocabulary: 1. Stranded adj. 滯留/困住 John was stranded on the airplane before takeoff for four hours due to heavy rain. 當年John因為大雨而困住在飛機上無法起飛。 2. Headwind n. 逆風 Airplanes require headwinds to gain lift for takeoff. 飛機需要逆風才容易升空。 3. In-flight meals n. 飛機餐 Airlines often reduce costs from the in-flight meals on short-haul flights. 航空公司通常都從短程班機上的餐先減預算。 更多Vocab Podcast節目: https://www.15mins.today/vocab 歡迎主題投稿/意見回覆 : [email protected] 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected]

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments 每日英語跟讀 Ep.K572: Starlux Chairman Could Face Fine Over Cockpit Photo with YouTuber Starlux Airlines Chairman and pilot, Chang Kuo-wei, is facing a possible fine for allowing a YouTuber to enter the cockpit during a flight to Los Angeles on April 26th. The Civil Aeronautics Administration (CAA) stated that an investigation was launched after the YouTuber, Sam Chui, posted a photo on Instagram with Chang in the cockpit without obtaining permission from the CAA. The flight is considered to be in operation as soon as cabin crew members are on board, according to CAA Flight Standards Division Director Wu Chia-jen. If found to have contravened the regulations, Chang could face a fine of NT$60,000, while the airline could be given a warning or a fine of NT$600,000. 星宇航空的董事長兼飛行員張國煒因允許一名YouTuber於4月26日飛往洛杉磯的航班進入駕駛艙而可能面臨罰款。根據民航局表示，該機關接獲舉報，指YouTuber崔佳星在Instagram上發布了一張未經民航局許可，與張國煒在駕駛艙的合照。民航局標準組長吳家珍指出，只要機上有機組人員，航班就被視為已經開始執行。依照航空器飛航作業管理規則，若張國煒違反規定，將面臨新台幣6萬元罰款，而該航空公司可能被警告或罰款新台幣60萬元。 Starlux Airlines also faced criticism for leaving more than 300 Taiwanese passengers stranded at Tokyo Narita International Airport on Saturday night, following the delay of two returning flights to Taipei due to crosswinds. Chang, who did not sleep the night before, caught a red-eye flight to Tokyo to handle the situation and later piloted one of the airline's A350 aircraft back to Taipei. However, the aviation authority launched another investigation, suspecting that Chang might have operated the aircraft while fatigued or worked overtime. 星宇航空同時也面臨兩班返程飛往台北的航班因強風延誤，導致逾300名台灣乘客滯留東京成田機場而被批評的情況。張國煒於前一晚沒有休息，趕上深夜飛往東京的航班處理事件，之後再駕駛航空公司的一架A350飛機回到台北。然而，民航局懷疑張國煒可能疲勞駕駛或超時工作，因此啟動了另一項調查。 The CAA has combined both investigations into one, as Chang was involved in both cases. The agency has requested information from the company and will interview Chang for further details. According to the Aircraft Flight Operation Regulations, non-cabin crew must obtain permission from the agency before entering the cockpit, which Starlux did not request in advance, according to CAA Director-General Lin Kuo-hsien. If the investigation finds that Chui entered the cockpit during the flight to Los Angeles, Chang and the airline could be fined. 民航局將兩起調查合併，因為張國煒涉及兩件事。該機關已向公司請求資訊，並將就進一步細節訪問張國煒。根據《飛行作業規定》，非機組人員進入駕駛艙前必須獲得機關許可，根據交通部民用航空局局長林國顯的說法，星宇航空沒有提前申請。如果調查發現崔佳星在飛往洛杉磯的航班上進入駕駛艙，張國煒和航空公司可能會被罰款。 If found guilty, it would be the first penalty Starlux Airlines received since it was founded in 2018. It would also be the first time in Taiwan's aviation history that a pilot and an airline are punished for allowing non-cabin crew to enter a cockpit. The investigation is ongoing, and the CAA has yet to release any further updates. 如果被判有罪，這將是自2018年成立以來星宇航空首次受到的處罰。這也將是臺灣航空史上第一次因允許非機組人員進入駕駛艙而受罰的機師與航空公司。調查仍在進行中，民航局尚未發布任何進一步的消息。 Reference article: https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2023/05/11/2003799592

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments 每日英語跟讀 Ep.K571: Ming Hwa Yuan Troupe: A Century of Taiwanese Opera Tradition Ming Hwa Yuan, a Taiwanese opera troupe, was founded in 1929 by Chen Ming-chi, who had joined a different opera troupe at the age of thirteen after leaving school to support his family. Chen was convinced by an actor in the troupe to join them and even ran away from home to pursue his passion. Five years later, he started his own troupe, which eventually became the Ming Hwa Yuan Arts & Cultural Group. Despite ups and downs over the years, the group remains a prestigious opera company in Taiwan today, with nine independent companies. Chen's son, Chen Sheng-fu, managed the troupe after his father's death and modernized the company into a successful performing arts empire, which tours Taiwan and the world to keep traditional Taiwanese opera relevant. 明華園劇團是由陳明吉於1929年創立的，當時他在13歲時離開學校支持家庭後加入了另一個戲曲劇團。陳明基被劇團中的演員說服加入，甚至為了追求自己的熱情而離家出走。五年後，他創立了自己的劇團，最終成為了明華園藝文集團。儘管多年來經歷了起起伏伏，但該團仍然是台灣一個聲譽卓著的戲曲公司，擁有九家獨立的劇團。陳明基的兒子陳勝福在父親去世後管理了該團，並將該公司現代化成為一個成功的表演藝術帝國，巡迴演出台灣和全世界，以保持傳統的台灣戲曲。 Taiwanese opera emerged in the late 19th century, influenced by various Chinese opera styles. It is one of the few Han artforms that developed locally and was easy for common folk to understand. The popularity of Taiwanese opera soared in just two decades; by 1928, it had become the preferred theatrical style over Beijing, Baizi, and other Chinese styles. Taiwanese opera was initially criticized by intellectuals for promoting bad morals, but they couldn't stop its popularity. Japanese imperialization banned everything Taiwanese and Chinese under their assimilation policy in the late 1930s, which put a halt to the shows. 台灣戲曲起源於19世紀末，受到各種中國戲曲風格的影響。它是少數漢族藝術形式之一，且容易為普羅大眾所理解。台灣戲曲的普及在短短的二十年間飆升；到了1928年，它已經成為比京劇、白字戲和其他中國風格更受歡迎的劇場風格。台灣戲曲最初因宣揚不良道德而受到知識分子的批評，但他們無法阻止它的流行。在日本帝國主義者在20世紀30年代末的同化政策下，禁止了一切台灣和中國文化，這使得戲曲表演停止了。 After World War II, the Chinese Nationalist Party allowed Taiwanese opera to flourish again, leading to the establishment of hundreds of Taiwanese opera groups. The Taiwan Provincial Local Theater Association boasted more than 300 opera companies when it was established in 1952. Despite the challenges of the past, the tradition of Taiwanese opera has been preserved by groups like Ming Hwa Yuan, which has been passed down from generation to generation. 二戰結束後，中國國民黨允許台灣戲曲重新興起，並帶動了數百個台灣戲曲團體的建立。1952年成立的台灣省地方劇協會當時已有超過300個戲曲團體。儘管過去有許多挑戰，但台灣戲曲的傳統仍然被像明華園這樣的團體代代相傳，並得以保存。 Ming Hwa Yuan continues to promote Taiwanese opera in Taiwan and the world by touring and performing. The troupe has remained a powerful and prestigious force, keeping the traditional art form alive and relevant. Taiwanese opera may have faced many obstacles over the years, but it has also proven to be resilient. The continuation of the Ming Hwa Yuan Arts & Cultural Group shows how, despite the difficulties, traditional art forms can continue to thrive. 明華園在台灣及全球進行巡迴演出，繼續推廣台灣戲曲。該團體一直是強大而傑出的力量，使得這種傳統藝術形式保持著生命力和相關性。台灣戲曲可能在過去面臨許多障礙，但也證明了其具有韌性。明華園文化藝術團的延續展示了，傳統藝術形式儘管面臨困難，仍能繼續繁榮。 Reference article: https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/feat/archives/2023/05/07/2003799303

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments Topic: Junk food habit affects sleep quality French fries and hamburgers are popular with teenagers. Everyone knows that these high-calorie foods can lead to chronic illnesses such as heart disease and high blood pressure, but, according to a report published by Medical Xpress, a study led by the University of Queensland in Australia has found that eating too much junk food can also have an impact on teenagers’ sleep quality. 薯條、漢堡等速食及飲料很受青少年喜愛。眾所皆知這些高熱量食物會導致慢性疾病，如心臟病和高血壓等。不過，「醫療快訊」報導，澳洲昆士蘭大學帶領的一項研究發現，吃過多的垃圾食品還會影響青少年的睡眠品質。 According to the research results, teenagers who drink more than three soft drinks per day were 55 percent more likely to report sleep disturbance than those who only drink one cup per day. Males who ate fast foods on more than four days per week were 55 percent more likely to report sleep disturbance than those who ate them only once a week, while females were 49 percent more likely to do so. 根據研究結果，每天喝三杯以上飲料的青少年自稱有睡眠障礙的機率，比每天只喝一杯軟飲料的青少年高百分之五十五。每週吃四天以上速食的男性自稱有睡眠障礙的機率，比那些每週只吃一次速食的男性高百分之五十五，而女性的機率高出百分之四十九。 This global study examined unhealthy diets and stress-related sleep disturbance in high school students from 64 countries. The study found that 7.5 percent of adolescents reported having stress-related sleep disturbance, which was more common among females than males and increased with more frequent consumption of carbonated soft drinks, as did the occurrence of sleep problems. Because carbonated drinks often contain caffeine and large amounts of sugar, while fast foods are high in energy but poor in nutrients, long-term consumption can cause nutritional imbalances. 這是一項針對全球不健康飲食和與壓力有關的睡眠障礙研究，涉及來自六十四個國家的高中生。研究表明，百分之七點五的青少年自稱有壓力相關的睡眠障礙，其中女性比男性更常見，且隨著碳酸飲料的頻繁飲用而增加，睡眠障礙的比率也愈高。因為碳酸飲料通常含有咖啡因和高糖分，而快餐食品高熱量但較缺乏營養，長期攝取會營養不均衡。 These data were collected from global health surveys conducted by the WHO between 2009 and 2016, which included about 170,000 students aged 12 to 15 years from 64 low, middle and high-income countries in Southeast Asia, Africa, South America and the eastern Mediterranean. 這些數據收集自二○○九年至二○一六年世界衛生組織的全球健康調查，其中包括來自東南亞、非洲、南美部分地區和地中東海東部地區的六十四個低、中、高收入國家的約十七萬名十二至十五歲的學生。 The research team said that frequent intake of soft drinks and eating of fast foods is closely associated with sleep problems in teenagers, and that this phenomenon is particularly clear in high-income countries. The research team said that these findings are worrying because poor-quality sleep has an adverse impact on adolescent health and cognitive development. They suggested that policies should be formulated that target these unhealthy behaviors. 研究團隊表示，青少年經常喝飲料、吃速食與睡眠障礙之間關聯密切，這現象尤其在高收入國家特別明顯。研究團隊指出，這些發現令人擔憂，因為睡眠品質差會對青少年的健康和認知發展產生不利影響。他們建議應針對這些不健康的行為制定相關政策，使青少年能健康成長。 Source article: https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/lang/archives/2021/01/05/2003749938 Next Article Topic: Philippines store rolls out ingenious face masks for bubble tea lovers 珍珠奶茶在國際舞台上幾乎與台灣劃上等號，在台灣時常能看到人手一杯手搖飲。然而礙於疫情，戴著口罩要喝飲料變得麻煩許多，一間菲律賓飲料店為了解決這個問題，最近推出了一款讓人無需脫口罩就能吸到珍奶的超神口罩。 In recent years, bubble tea has become synonymous with Taiwan among members and friends of the foreign community, and many locals can often be seen drinking hand-shaken beverages wherever they go. With the COVID-19 outbreak and the subsequent requirements of wearing face masks in crowded areas, however, drinking soft drinks has become a bit of a hassle. To solve this problem, a beverage store in the Philippines recently released a new line of face masks that you won’t need to take off to enjoy a sip from your favorite drink. 此店Gallontea將口罩命名為「吸吸罩」(Sippy Mask) ，表面看起來與一般布口罩差不多，但是口罩的嘴巴邊卻有一個小開口，上面附著一個蓋子讓喜愛喝珍奶的人可以邊喝邊防疫。 The “Sippy Mask” released by Gallontea looks like an ordinary cloth face mask, but if you look closely, you’ll find that there is a small opening near the mouth, with a small-cap for bubble-tea lovers to enjoy a safe drink. 店家也特別在官網上表示，只要消費有達1,000披索（約新台幣605.56元）就會贈送此口罩。而雖然口罩預購期已於昨日截止，目前也只在菲律賓販售，然而因為銷量不賴，期望未來有機會進軍台灣；不過大家需特別注意，喝完飲料要再將開口關上，才不會白帶口罩。 On their official Instagram page, Gallontea announced that customers can receive a free face mask with a minimum purchase of 1,000 pesos (US$20.59). Although the pre-order time was only till Aug. 18 and the masks are currently only being sold in the Philippines, with the way it’s selling out, many people have expressed hope that customers will see this ingenious invention on Taiwan racks very soon. However, users of the face masks should be mindful of closing the opening once they’ve taken a sip from the drinks or else the act of wearing face masks would be rendered useless. Source article: https://chinapost.nownews.com/20200819-1696789 Next Article Topic: South Korea bans coffee in schools to curb overconsumption South Korea will introduce a new law tomorrow banning the sale of coffee in primary and secondary schools to prevent students from consuming too much caffeine. This means that nobody, including teachers, will be able to buy caffeinated