通勤學英語 15Mins Today

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- Welcome to 15Mins英語咖啡館! In today’s episode, Shimin and I will go over the all-time classic - It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas. Did you know? This song was first sung by Bing Crosby in 1951, and more recently, both Michael Bublé and Meghan Trainor have covered it, each version bringing a different flavor! Christmas is not just about frenzied shopping but more importantly, it's a time for family reunions. You should also take advantage of the holidays and reward yourself! 歡迎來到英語咖啡館！在今天的節目中，John老師和詩詩老師要來聊聊經典聖誕歌曲 "It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas"，這首70年前的歌，並從中看見一些歷史小故事！你知道嗎？這首歌最早是由 Bing Crosby 在1951年演唱，一直到最近的Michael Bublé和Meghan Trainor都翻唱過，每個版本都帶來不同的風味！聖誕節不只是狂歡購物，更重要的是和家人團聚的時刻。大家也趁著今天節慶的好理由，好好的獎勵自己一番吧！

HP EliteBook 1040 商務筆電，採用 Ｗindows 11專業版，搭載 Intel® Core™ Ultra 處理器， 內置AI Boost及智慧會議功能，搭配Windows中的Copilot，快速彙整會議內容及工作，事半功倍！ 連結：https://www.hp.com/tw-zh/laptops/business/elitebooks/1000-series.html ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- Summary: This article talks about the electric scooter market in Taiwan and the new products coming from the major manufacturers. The competition is heating up! Refer to full article: https://www.15mins.today/blog/528-start-your-engines-electric-scooter-makers-prepare-to-do-battle-in Vocabulary and sample sentence: Head-to-head ( where 2 people or groups face each other directly in order to decide on a result/ a winner)Are they to meet head-to-head in next week’s final?Yes, they are going to meet head-to-head in next week's final.Are Asus and Acer head-to-head competitors?Yes, Asus and Acer are head-to-head competitors.  Subsidy (money that is paid by a government or organization to reduce the cost of a service or goods)Do government subsidies help certain industries?Yes, government subsidies do help certain industries.Are subsidies driving the growth in renewable energy? Yes, subsidies are the driving force of growth in renewable energy. Incentive (something that encourages you to do something)Do incentives help students to achieve better results?Yes, incentives help students to achieve better results.Are incentives the backbone of the sales industry?Yes, incentives are the backbone of the sales industry.

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- 國際時事跟讀 Ep.K907: New Taipei's Magical Christmas Spectacle Dazzles Millions Highlights 主題摘要：New Taipei's Christmasland 2024 features groundbreaking technology integration, showcasing an 8-story LED Castle Main Show and an interactive Magic Angel Christmas Tree that demonstrates innovative urban entertainment.The festival creates immersive experiences through four distinct themed zones, each offering unique attractions like AR filters, psychological tests, and mechanical snow installations that enhance visitor engagement.The 48-day celebration balances static displays with dynamic programming, including themed markets, concerts, and special events, while featuring international elements like Universal Studios' Minions to appeal to diverse audiences. New Taipei City has unveiled its highly anticipated Christmasland 2024, transforming the urban landscape into a mesmerizing magical wonderland for 48 consecutive days. This year's theme, "Magical City," promises visitors an extraordinary journey through enchanted realms, featuring innovative light installations and festive entertainment that blend traditional holiday charm with modern technology. 新北市揭開了備受期待的 2024 年耶誕城活動序幕，將城市景觀轉化為一個令人著迷的魔幻仙境，為期 48 天。今年以「魔幻城市」為主題，勢必會帶給遊客一趟非凡的魔法旅程，展出創新的燈光裝置與節慶娛樂活動，完美融合傳統節慶氛圍與現代科技。 The centerpiece of this year's celebration is an impressive 8-story LED Castle Main Show, where cutting-edge sound and light technology creates spectacular visual performances. The installation serves as the festival's crown jewel, accompanied by a transforming Magic Angel Christmas Tree that changes its appearance throughout the evening, casting a spell of wonder over the City Hall Square. These technological marvels demonstrate New Taipei's commitment to creating an immersive holiday experience that pushes creative boundaries. 本次慶典的核心亮點是一座令人驚嘆的 8 層樓高 LED 城堡主秀，採用尖端的聲光科技呈現壯觀的視覺演出。這個裝置作為活動的重頭戲，搭配能夠在夜晚不斷變換造型的魔幻天使耶誕樹，為市政府廣場灑下夢幻光影。這些科技奇觀展現了新北市打造沉浸式節慶體驗的決心，不斷突破創意界限。 The festival introduces an entirely new cast of whimsical characters, including magical angels, mystical owls, enchanted rabbits, and majestic unicorns, all adding to the fantastical atmosphere. Visitors can explore four distinct lighting zones: the Magical City zone at City Hall Square, the Magical Manor near Banqiao Railway Station, the Magical Cinema in Wanping Park, and the Magical Fairytale Kingdom at Fuzhong Plaza. Each zone offers unique interactive experiences, including AR filters, psychological tests, and special mechanical light installations that create periodic snowfall effects for a truly magical winter atmosphere. The celebration also features stunning overpass light corridors, including the "Magic Star Gate" on Xinzhang Road Bridge and the "Butterfly Dream Forest" on Xinfu Road Bridge, creating enchanting pathways between venues. 活動帶來全新的奇幻角色陣容，包括魔幻天使、秘法智者貓頭鷹、靈魂治療師兔子和聖盾守護者獨角獸，為整體氛圍增添夢幻色彩。遊客可以探索四大燈區：市民廣場的魔幻之城、板橋車站前廣場的魔幻莊園、萬坪公園的魔幻電影院，以及府中廣場的魔幻童話王國。每個區域都提供獨特的互動體驗，包括 AR 濾鏡、心理測驗，以及定時飄雪的特殊機械裝置，營造真實的冬季魔幻氛圍。此外，天橋燈廊也相當吸睛，包括新站路天橋的「奇幻星門」和新府路天橋的「蝶舞之森」，打造出充滿魔幻的景觀通道。 The celebration extends beyond static displays with a rich program of events running throughout the festival period. Weekends from November 16th to December 29th feature the Magic Christmas Fairytale Party with themed markets, while special highlights include a Magic Cross-dressing Children's Concert in late November and an authentic German Christmas Market in early December. The festival reaches its pinnacle with the Magic Christmas Concert on December 14th and 15th, featuring renowned artists who will perform under the glittering lights. Adding to the excitement, a special "glow-in-the-dark car" will make surprise appearances throughout Christmas City, bringing unexpected moments of wonder with its dreamy sound and light show. International appeal gets a boost with Universal Studios' beloved Minions making special appearances throughout the festival. To ensure everyone can enjoy this spectacular display, the Tourism Department recommends using public transportation to visit the installations, which illuminate the city nightly from 5:30 PM to 11:00 PM. 慶典活動不只有靜態展示，還規劃了豐富的活動節目。從 11 月 16 日至 12 月 29 日的每個週末都有魔法耶誕童話派對與主題市集，特別活動包括 11 月底的魔幻變裝童樂會，以及 12 月初的魔幻夢境德國耶誕市集。活動高潮將在 12 月 14 日和 15 日的魔幻巨星耶誕演唱會中達到頂點，知名藝人將在璀璨燈光下獻唱。更令人興奮的是，一輛特製的「夜光巡迴車」將在耶誕城中不定時現身，帶來令人驚喜的夢幻聲光秀。環球影城深受歡迎的小小兵也將在活動期間特別現身。為了讓所有市民都能輕鬆欣賞這場精彩的展演，觀光旅遊局建議民眾搭乘大眾運輸前往，燈區每晚從下午 5 點 30 分亮到晚上 11

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- Topic: Woman cut rope holding painters 26 floors high A resident of a high-rise condominium in Thailand cut the support rope for two painters, apparently angry she wasn’t told they would be doing work, and left them hanging above the 26th floor. 泰國一棟高層公寓大廈的一名住戶，剪斷2名外牆油漆工的支撐繩索，讓他們懸吊在26樓高，顯然是對未被告知施工一事動怒。 The woman is facing attempted murder and property destruction charges, and could face a prison term up to 20 years. 該名女性住戶面臨蓄意謀殺和財物毀損罪名，可能被判囚20年。 One of the painters, a Myanmar national named Song, told the Thai media that he and his friends had lowered themselves from the 32nd floor to repair a crack on the building. 其中一名緬甸籍宋姓油漆工向泰國媒體表示，他和朋友從32樓垂降，準備修復大廈的裂痕。 When he reached the 30th floor, he felt that the rope was heavier and when he looked down, he saw someone on the 21st floor open a window and cut his rope. He tried asking for help from other units, but nobody was in. The third colleague continued to support them from the top floor until a couple rescued them. 到達30樓外後，他感到繩索變重，往下竟看到有人從21樓打開窗戶剪斷繩索。他試著向其他住戶求救，但沒人在家，第3名同事則持續從頂樓支撐著他們，直到一對夫婦救了他們。 Next Article Topic: Thai chain’s cannabis pizza: trendy but won’t get you high 泰國連鎖餐廳的大麻披薩：夠時髦卻不會讓人飄飄然 One of Thailand’s major fast food chains The Pizza Company has introduced "Crazy Happy Pizza", an under-the-radar product topped with a cannabis leaf. It’s legal but won’t get you high. 泰國大型連鎖餐廳之一「披薩公司」推出一款擺上一片大麻葉的低調新品「極樂披薩」，這是合法的產品，並不會讓人飄飄欲仙。 "It’s just a marketing campaign. And you can taste the cannabis and then if you have enough, you may get a bit sleepy," said the general manager. 餐廳總經理說：「這只是行銷方式，可以讓人品嚐大麻，只是如果吃太飽，可能會有點想睡覺。」 The Crazy Happy Pizza is a mashup of toppings evoking the flavors of Thailand’s famous Tom Yum Gai soup along with a deep-fried cannabis leaf on top. Cannabis is also infused into the cheese crust and there’s chopped cannabis in the dipping sauce. A 9-inch pie costs only 499 baht. 「極樂披薩」混搭各種食材，使人聯想到泰國著名的酸辣蝦湯，上頭再放上一片酥炸的大麻葉。不僅起司餅皮填入大麻，沾醬也加入碎葉片。一塊9吋披薩僅售499泰銖（約463台幣）。 Thailand became the first country in Southeast Asia to remove specific parts and extracts of cannabis from its controlled narcotics list in December 2020, and later allowed them to be used in foods and beverages. 泰國在2020年12月成為首個將大麻特定部位和萃取物移出致幻毒品的東南亞國家，之後更允許在菜品或飲料中使用大麻。Source article: https://features.ltn.com.tw/english/article/paper/1499658 ; https://features.ltn.com.tw/english/article/paper/1503512 Next Article Topic: Parched fields force Thailand to look beyond rice Thailand has long served as one of the globe’s main rice bowls, but chronic water shortages are pushing the country to move away from a grain that dominates its fields and has defined a way of life for generations. 泰國向來是全球稻米主要供應國之一，但長期缺水讓這個國家無法再固守單一作物，必須為往後的世代定義新的生存方式。 Laddawan has spent the past forty years coaxing rice from her plot in central Thailand, but she is tired of watching her farmland squeezed dry by increasingly severe droughts. 過去40年來，拉德旺一直在泰國中部的自家土地上細心照料水稻，但嚴重的旱災持續蹂躪這片土地，此情此景已讓她感到厭倦。 "I plan to replace some rice paddies with limes," she told AFP after attending a government-run workshop urging farmers to diversify their crops. 在參加完一場由政府舉辦、鼓勵農夫種植不同作物的農作坊後，她告訴法新社記者：「我打算不種稻米，改種萊姆了。」 At a workshop held in Nonthaburi province near Bangkok, Laddawan was sold the seeds fruit trees. 拉德旺在曼谷附近暖武里省的一場農作坊上買到果樹種籽。 These alternatives will drastically reduce water consumption but also break the monoculture that has deteriorated Thai soil for decades. 這些替代方案將大幅縮減用水量，也將打破數十年來造成泰國土質惡化的單一作物栽培模式。 "We have no choice, we need to adapt," Laddawan said, explaining that she used to plant three rice crops annually, but next year will only have enough water for one. 拉德旺表示，她過去每年種植3次水稻，但水資源只夠在明年種1次，「我們沒有選擇，只能改變。」 Next Article Topic: Thai hotel brews up coffee from elephant dung 泰國酒店從象糞中煮出咖啡 For those who like their coffee with a strong nose Thailand could be the ideal destination, after a blend made from elephant dung was put on sale by an upmarket hotel chain. 泰國一家高檔連鎖酒店販售象糞製作的咖啡後，對喜愛濃咖啡的人來說，泰國可能是個理想去處。 The Black Ivory blend, made from coffee beans digested and excreted by Thai elephants, is billed as producing a particularly smooth cup. 這種「黑色象牙」咖啡，是由泰國大象消化並排泄出來的咖啡豆製成，號稱味道特別溫和。 But it is not cheap, with Anantara Hotels saying the "naturally refined" coffee costs a staggering $1,100 per kilogram -- making it one of the most expensive blends in the world. 但象糞咖啡所費不貲，安娜塔拉酒店表示，這種「天然精釀」的咖啡豆每公斤要價讓人咋舌的1100美元，是世界最貴的咖啡之一。 "Research indicates th

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- 歡迎回到《Teacher's Lounge 幕後教師室》！本集John老師和阿鍵老師來聊聊，2024年，國際時事跟讀以及英語咖啡館的幕後有什麼成長與小故事。 阿鍵老師分享了過去一年來作為總編輯的一些感想，尤其是在節目品質的把控以及與聽眾的互動如何微調並強化。通勤家族有感受到我們在IG 跟YouTube上的進步嗎？我們也會聊到今年為何這個部分會成為我們重點加強之一。此外，想要知道我們如何在商業合作與聽眾體驗之間找到平衡的家族們，這一集有滿滿的幕後故事喔～ 此集為上集，下周會有更多未來新內容與新調整的分享喔！ 想要獲得更多精彩內容，別忘了訂閱VIP會員，還能享有主題許願！ https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- Summary: In this article scientists warn about the dangers of farming with insects. Care needs to be taken and studies done to ensure the minimisation of potential risks when it comes to farming with insects. \Vocabulary and sample sentences: Wreak havoc : to do great damageDo typhoons wreak havoc on landfall?Did the 2008 financial crisis wreak havoc on the global economy? Cultivation: the use of land to grow crops, the deliberate development of relationships qualities or skills :Is fruit cultivation in Taiwan important?Is the cultivation of good manners important?  Poultry: chickens, ducks, geese all their meatIs poultry farming profitable? Do you enjoy eating poultry?  Invasive species : foreign species that invade and spread quickly in a new environmentAre fire ants an invasive species?Can invasive species destroy the environment? 

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- Welcome to 15Mins英語咖啡館! In today’s episode, Lydia and Cariya from the Ecom Book Club join us to dive into the fast-paced world of e-commerce during the all-important fourth quarter. From the frenzy of Double Eleven to the deals of Double Twelve, we are going to check out what happened to Ralph Lauren this Double 11 - paradox of skyrocketing sales and soaring return rates. 歡迎來到英語咖啡館！在今天的節目中，我們邀請到電商讀書會的 Lydia 和 Cariya，一起深入探討年度最關鍵的第四季度電商快節奏世界。從雙十一的購物狂潮到雙十二的超值優惠，我們將聚焦 Ralph Lauren 在今年雙十一的奇特遭遇——銷量飆升卻退貨率也同步攀高的矛盾現象。

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- 國際時事跟讀 Ep.K899: The Night Riders: China's Viral Dumpling Adventure Highlights 主題摘要：A simple social media post about four students' night bike ride for dumplings transformed into a massive youth movement, demonstrating how small actions can catalyze significant social phenomena.The unprecedented scale of participation (100,000 students) led to infrastructure challenges and regulatory responses, highlighting the tension between spontaneous youth culture and urban management.Despite authorities' restrictions and criticism, students' determination to continue the journey by walking reflects the resilient spirit of youth and their desire for authentic shared experiences. In an unprecedented display of youth culture, what began as a simple quest for famous soup dumplings has evolved into a remarkable social phenomenon in central China. The movement started in June when four university students from Zhengzhou documented their late-night bicycle journey to Kaifeng, a historic city renowned for its oversized soup dumplings called "guan tang bao." Their social media posts sparked a trend that would soon capture the imagination of thousands of young Chinese, united under the inspiring motto "youth is priceless, night ride to Kaifeng has it." The adventure quickly gained traction among students seeking both culinary delights and memorable experiences. 在一場前所未有的青年文化展現中，一個源於尋找知名湯包的簡單任務，演變成為中國中部引人矚目的社會現象。這個活動始於六月，當時四位來自鄭州的大學生記錄了他們夜騎到開封的歷程，開封是一座以超大湯包「灌湯包」聞名的古城。他們在社群媒體上的貼文引發了一股潮流，很快就吸引了數千名中國年輕人的想像力，他們團結在「青春沒有售價，夜騎開封拿下」的激勵口號之下。這場冒險很快在尋求美食與難忘經驗的學生間蔓延開來。 The trend reached its peak on a Friday night when an estimated 100,000 students, mostly using shared bikes, embarked on the 50-kilometer journey between the two cities. The massive convoy of cyclists filled the six-lane Zhengkai avenue, creating an extraordinary scene of solidarity and youth spirit. Students sang together, encouraged one another during uphill stretches, and shared in the collective adventure. Liu Lulu, a student at Henan University, described the experience as more than just a bike ride, emphasizing the passionate energy that permeated throughout the group. The night-time journey became a symbol of youth empowerment and collective determination. 這股潮流在某個週五晚上達到高峰，據估計有十萬名學生，大多騎著共享單車，踏上了這段五十公里的雙城之旅。大規模的自行車隊伍填滿了六線道的鄭開大道，形成了一幅展現團結與青春活力的非凡景象。學生們一同歡唱，在上坡時互相打氣，共享這場集體冒險。河南大學的學生劉露露（音譯）形容這不僅僅是一場單車之旅，更強調了貫穿整個群體的熱情能量。這場夜騎之旅成為了青年權能與集體決心的象徵。 However, the unprecedented scale of participation brought significant challenges to both cities involved. The ancient city of Kaifeng quickly reached its capacity, with accommodations, restaurants, and public spaces overwhelmed by the sudden influx of visitors. Local authorities were forced to implement immediate measures, including temporary restrictions on roads and cycle paths. Bike-sharing applications announced they would remotely lock any bicycles taken outside designated zones in Zhengzhou, while some universities introduced stricter regulations, such as requiring students to obtain passes before leaving campus. Police officers used loudspeakers to manage the crowd and offered free bus services for those needing to return. 然而，這前所未有的參與規模為兩座城市帶來了重大挑戰。古城開封很快就達到了接待極限，住宿、餐廳和公共空間都被突如其來的訪客潮擠爆。地方當局被迫實施緊急措施，包括對道路和自行車道實施臨時管制。共享單車應用程式宣布，若單車駛離鄭州指定區域就會遠端上鎖，一些大學也實施了更嚴格的規定，例如要求學生必須申請通行證才能離校。警察使用擴音器管理人群，並為需要返回的人提供免費巴士服務。 The phenomenon has sparked intense debate across Chinese social media platforms and traditional media outlets. While many celebrate this expression of youth culture and adventure, others critique the lack of proper infrastructure and planning to support such large-scale spontaneous events. What started as a celebrated tourism boost for Kaifeng, initially endorsed by state media, has transformed into a complex situation requiring careful management. Despite the restrictions, some determined students have adapted by choosing to walk the distance, embodying the resilient spirit of youth. As one student posted on social media, "It's so good to be young, this is youth!" The night-riding trend has since spread to other major Chinese cities, though none have yet witnessed crowds matching the scale of the Zhengzhou-Kaifeng phenomenon, which stands as a testament to the unexpected ways youth culture can reshape urban experiences. 這個現象在中國社群媒體平台和傳統媒體上引發了激烈討論。當許多人讚揚這種青年文化和冒險精神的表現時，也有人批評缺乏適當的基礎設施和規劃來支持如此大規模的自發性活動。這個最初被官方媒體認可，作為開封旅遊業助推器的活動，已演變成需要謹慎管

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- Topic: About animals - Treating wounds with insects: the strange habits of Gabon chimps How to treat a wound? For humans, the first instinct would be to disinfect it and then cover it with a bandage. But chimpanzees have invented a more creative method: catching insects and applying them directly to the open wound. 應該如何處理傷口呢？對於人類來說，第一個反應是對其進行消毒，然後用繃帶包紮。但黑猩猩發明了一種更有創意的方法：用昆蟲並將牠們直接塗抹在開放性傷口上。 Scientists observed this behavior in chimpanzees in the West African nation of Gabon, noticing that the apes not only use insects to treat their own wounds, but also those of their peers. 科學家們在西非國家加彭的黑猩猩身上觀察到這種行為，並注意到這些猿類不僅使用昆蟲來治療自己的傷口，還用來治療同伴。 The project began in 2019, when an adult female chimpanzee named Suzee was observed inspecting a wound on the foot of her adolescent son. Suzee then suddenly caught an insect out of the air, put it in her mouth, apparently squeezed it, and then applied it to her son’s wound. 這項研究計畫始於2019年，科學家當時觀察到一隻名叫蘇西（Suzee）的成年雌黑猩猩，正在檢查牠青少年兒子腳上的傷口。接著，蘇西突然從空中抓了一隻蟲子，放進嘴裡抿碎，然後敷在牠兒子的傷口上。 Next Article Topic: Deer runs into hospital, up escalator; later is euthanized 一隻鹿闖進醫院搭上電梯隨後被安樂死 News outlets reported that surveillance video showed a deer bounding into Our Lady of the Lake Hospital in Baton Rouge in Louisiana through an open door and stumbling on the slippery floor as stunned workers and visitors watched from a few feet away. 監視影片顯示，有一隻鹿從路易斯安那州巴頓魯治聖母湖醫院開放的大門跳進院內後，在易滑的地板上跌倒，震驚的工作人員和訪客在幾呎外目睹一切。 The deer regained its footing enough to climb up the escalator and reach the second floor, where it was finally corralled and held down by several people. 這隻鹿站穩腳步後爬進電梯搭到二樓，才終於被許多人一同壓制及捕捉。 The deer was loaded on a hospital bed that was rolled outside to a truck from the The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Department. 這隻鹿被放置在醫院病床上，推往路易斯安那野生動物和漁業部的卡車。 The animal had to be euthanized because of injuries, the agency said, adding there were indications it may have been struck by a vehicle before entering the building. 該機構說，由於這隻動物傷重，必須被安樂死。他們也補充道，牠看起來應該是進入醫院前遭汽車撞擊。 "Patient care has not been interrupted and the area is being thoroughly sanitized," said a statement by the hospital. 醫院聲明指出：「病患照護未受干擾，事發區域也已徹底消毒。」Source article: https://features.ltn.com.tw/english/article/paper/1501725 ; https://features.ltn.com.tw/english/article/paper/1502232 Next Article Topic: Kangaroos can learn to communicate with humans, researchers say Kangaroos can learn to communicate with humans similar to how domesticated dogs do, by using their gaze to "point" and ask for help, researchers said in a study published on Wednesday. 研究人員在週三發表的一份研究中說，和被馴化的狗類似，袋鼠可以學習和人類溝通，利用凝視來「指向」並尋求協助。 The study involved 11 kangaroos that lived in captivity but had not been domesticated. Ten of the 11 marsupials intently gazed at researchers when they were unable to open a box with food, according to the report. Nine alternately looked at the human and at the container, as a way of pointing or gesturing toward the object. 這份研究涉及11隻圈養但未經馴化的袋鼠。根據這份報告，這11隻有袋動物的其中10隻，在打不開一個裝有食物的盒子時，專注凝視研究人員。9隻交替看著人和容器，做為指向或是朝該物體示意的一種方法。 "We interpreted this as a deliberate form of communication, a request for help," Alan McElligott, the Irish researcher who led the study, told Reuters in a call. 主導這起研究的愛爾蘭研究人員亞倫‧麥克利戈特在電話中告訴路透，「我們將之解釋為一種刻意的溝通形式，是一種求助。」 The findings challenge the notion that only domesticated animals such as dogs, horses or goats communicate with humans. 這項發現挑戰了只有諸如狗、馬或山羊這類被馴化的動物會和人類溝通的觀念。 Next Article Topic: 2 pythons weighing 100 pounds collapse ceiling in Australia （澳洲2條合計100磅的蟒蛇壓垮天花板） An Australian David Tait entered his home in Laceys Creek in Queensland state and was surprised to find a large chunk of the ceiling lying on his kitchen table. "I knew we hadn’t had rain, so I looked around to find what had caused it," Tait said. 一名澳洲民眾大衛．泰特回到位於昆士蘭州萊西溪市的家時，驚訝地發現一大片天花板躺在廚房餐桌上。泰特說：「我知道沒下雨，所以我四處張望尋找事發原因。」 He soon found two culprits, non-venomous carpet pythons 2.8 meters and 2.5 meters long, that had slithered into a bedroom and living room. The snakes have an estimated combined weight of 45 kilograms. 他很快發現2隻罪魁禍首，各為2.8公尺及2.5公尺的無毒地毯蟒爬進了臥室和客廳。這2隻蟒蛇合計重達45公斤。 Snake catcher Steven Brown was called to remove the two snakes. "I would assume that it was two males fighting over a female that was nearby in the roof," he said. He suspected the female could still be in the ceiling or nearby. 捕蛇專家史蒂芬．布朗被叫來抓2隻蟒蛇。他說：「我想是2隻公蟒為了待在天花板附近的1隻母蟒在打架。」他懷疑，那隻母蟒或許還待在天花板或附近一帶。 The males were retur

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- 1.B.B. King B.B.金 Quote: "The way you see people is the way you treatthem, and the way you treat them is what they become." 名言：「你如何看待他人，就會如何對待他們；你如何對待他們，他們就會成為怎樣的人。」 Riley B. King was born in 1925 on acotton plantation near Itta Bena, Mississippi. He earned his nickname "B.B." (Blues Boy) while performing on Memphis's Beale Street. King's distinctive guitar style – featuring his "butterfly" vibrato and bent notes – developed because he couldn't sing and play at the same time, so he made his guitar "sing" the notes. His famous guitar "Lucille" wasn't just one instrument – it was a series of Gibson guitars he used throughout his career. The original Lucille was rescued from a fire in Twist, Arkansas, in 1949. King learned the name of the woman who caused the fire was Lucille, so he named his guitar after her to remind himself never to fight over a woman or run into a burning building. Despite only having a fifth-grade education, King received honorary doctorates from multiple universities. He toured relentlessly, playing an average of 300 shows a year well into his 70s. In 1970, he won his first Grammy Award for "The Thrill Is Gone," his signature song. 萊利·B·金1925年生於密西西比州伊塔貝納附近的棉花種植園。他在孟菲斯的比爾街演出時獲得「B.B.」（藍調小子）的綽號。金獨特的吉他風格－包括他的「蝴蝶」顫音和彎音技巧－源於他無法同時唱歌和彈奉他，所以他讓吉他來「唱」出音符。他著名的吉他「露西兒」不是單一把樂器－而是他職業生涯中使用的一系列吉布森吉他。最初的露西兒是1949年在阿肯色州特威斯特的一場大火中救出的。金得知引起火災的女子名叫露西兒，便用這個名字為吉他命名，提醒自己永遠不要為了女人打架或衝進燃燒的建築物。儘管只有小學五年級學歷，金獲得多所大學頒發榮譽博士學位。他不知疲倦地巡迴演出，即使70多歲仍年均演出300場。1970年，他憑藉代表作《TheThrill Is Gone》獲得首座葛萊美獎。 2.Aretha Franklin 艾瑞莎·富蘭克林 Quote: "Be your own artist, and always be confident inwhat you're doing. If you're not going to be confident, you might as well not be doing it." 名言：「做你自己的藝術家，永遠對自己在做的事充滿信心。如果你沒有信心，那就乾脆不要做。」 Aretha Louise Franklin, born in 1942 in Memphis, Tennessee, began singing gospel in her father's church at age 10. Known as the "Queen of Soul," she learned to play piano by ear despite never learning to read music. Franklin recorded her first album at age 14. Her path to success wasn't immediate – she struggled to find her voice in the industry until signing with Atlantic Records in 1966. The song "Respect," recorded in 1967, became an anthem for both the Civil Rights and Women's Rights movements. Franklin was the first female artist to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987. She performed at three presidential inaugurations: Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton, and Barack Obama. She won 18 Grammy Awards and sold over 75 million records worldwide. Franklin's voice was declared a "natural resource" by her home state of Michigan. Despite her success, she had a fear of flying that began in 1984, which led her to travel exclusively by bus for performances within North America. She could hear a piece of music once and reproduce it perfectly, demonstrating her extraordinary musical memory. 艾瑞莎·路易斯·富蘭克林1942年生於田納西州孟菲斯，10歲就在父親的教堂唱福音歌曲。被譽為「靈魂樂之后」的她雖然不識譜，卻能用耳朵學會彈鋼琴。富蘭克林14歲時錄製首張專輯。她的成功之路並非一帆風順－直到1966年與大西洋唱片公司簽約前，她一直在尋找自己在業界的定位。1967年錄製的《Respect》成為民權運動和婦女權利運動的主題曲。她是1987年首位入選搖滾名人堂的女性藝人。她在三位總統就職典禮上表演：吉米·卡特、比爾·柯林頓和巴拉克·歐巴馬。她獲得18座葛萊美獎，全球唱片銷量超過7500萬張。她的故鄉密西根州將她的聲音列為「自然資源」。儘管事業有成，她自1984年起患上飛行恐懼症，此後在北美的演出都改搭巴士。她有過人的音樂記憶力，只要聽一遍就能完美重現樂曲。 3.Nina Simone 妮娜·西蒙 Quote: "Jazz is not just music, it's a way of life,it's a way of being, a way of thinking." 名言：「爵士樂不只是音樂，它是一種生活方式，一種存在方式，一種思考方式。」 Born Eunice Kathleen Waymon in 1933 inTryon, North Carolina, Nina Simone's journey began as a classical pianist. She started playing piano at age three and practiced Bach, Chopin, and Beethoven for hours daily. Her dreams of becoming the first African American concert pianist were crushed when she was denied admission to the Curtis Institute of Music, which she believed was due to racial discrimination. To support herself, she began playing in a small club in Atlantic City, where she was told she had to sing as well as play piano. To keep this work secret from her family, who considered such music "the devil's music," she adopted the stage name "Nina Simone" - "Nina" from a boyfriend's nickname for her, and "Simone" after actress Simone Signoret. Her classical training heavily influenced her unique playing style, often weaving Bach-like counterpoint into jazz standards. Simone's music became integral to the Civil Rights Movement, with songs like "Mississippi Goddam" written in response to racial injustices. She spoke and sang in several languages, including E

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- Summary: When you get a tattoo, even if the image is embedded on your body, it is owned by the tattoo artist. Tattoos used to be a label or a stigma for people, but now it is becoming more prominent. Tattoos in Japan were meant for firemen, so that they could be identified if they were burnt. Thereafter, tattoos were more associated with the Yakuza and frowned upon in the public baths. Gavin's advice: never get a tattoo on a place that you cannot cover it up. According to the article, game-makers now are concerned about the copyright of the tattoos on their game avatars. Since the copyright belongs to tattoo artists and not the athletes, game-makers have to get permission from the tattoo artist.  Article referred: https://www.15mins.today/blog/524-athletes-don-t-own-their-tattoos-that-s-a-problem-for-video-game Sample vocabulary and sentence: Transcendent ( adj. surpassing the ordinary, extraordinary)Michael Jordan was a transcendent athlete.Wayne Gretzky was a transcendent ice hockey player.Warren Buffett is a transcendent investor. Tangible (adj. can be felt by touch)Love is intangible, but the act of love is tangible.Intangible assets of a company includes trademark, copyright, intellectual property, and knowledge of employees.Tangible assets of a company includes property and machinery. Dope (informal - adj. cool ; formal - n. drugs v. to use drugs)Taylor Swift's new music video is dope.My new Apple Watch is dope!It is illegal to smoke dope in Taiwan, but it is legal in the United States.

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- Hello hello 通勤家族們！ 在這集的15分鐘咖啡館中，Angel和我討論了年終慶祝活動的文化差異，比較台灣和西方國家的習俗。我們探討了台灣的「尾牙」派對，這種派對以盛大的聚會和互動娛樂為特色，與較為低調的西方慶祝活動形成對比。 你們公司的年終派對是什麼樣的呢？歡迎與我們分享你的故事，我們會在下集給你shout out！ In this episode of 15 Minutes Cafe, Angel and I discuss the cultural nuances of year-end celebrations, comparing practices in Taiwan with those in Western countries. We explore the Taiwanese "wei-ya" parties, characterized by elaborate gatherings and interactive entertainment, contrasting them with more subdued Western celebrations. What is your company's year-end party like? Share your stories with us and we will give you a shout out!

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- 國際時事跟讀 Ep.K899: Chinese Taipei Claims Premier12 Gold Highlights 主題摘要：Chinese Taipei's historic victory ended Japan's 27-game winning streak and marked their first major international tournament win, demonstrating that underdogs can triumph through strategic planning and exceptional execution.The game-changing fifth inning featured two crucial home runs from Lin and Chen, while the pitching staff's masterful performance held Japan's powerful offense to just four hits throughout the game.Manager Tseng's controversial decision to rest pitcher Yu-Min Lin for the final, despite facing criticism and fines, proved instrumental in securing the victory, showing how bold leadership choices can lead to breakthrough success. In a remarkable display of skill and determination, Chinese Taipei achieved what many thought impossible by defeating world number one Japan 4-0 in the Premier12 2024 final. The historic victory, witnessed by over 41,000 spectators at the Tokyo Dome, marked Chinese Taipei's first major international tournament win at the senior level and ended Japan's impressive 27-game winning streak. For a team that had never won gold in a major international tournament and had struggled in recent competitions, this victory represented a monumental breakthrough. 在一場展現高超技巧與堅定決心的比賽中，中華隊完成了許多人認為不可能的任務，在 2024 年世界棒球12強賽決賽中以 4 比 0 擊敗世界排名第一的日本隊。這場歷史性的勝利在東京巨蛋上演，超過 41,000 名觀眾見證了中華隊在成棒層級首次奪下重要國際賽事冠軍，同時終結了日本隊驚人的 27 連勝。對於一支從未在重大國際賽事奪金，且近期賽事表現不盡理想的球隊而言，這場勝利代表了一個重大的突破。 The game's decisive moment came in the fifth inning when Chinese Taipei's offense came alive against Japanese ace Shosei Togo. Chia-Cheng Lin started the rally with a powerful solo home run, sending the ball deep into the right field bleachers. The excitement reached its peak when team captain Chieh-Hsien Chen, who had been batting exceptionally well throughout the tournament with an average above .600, launched a three-run homer over the center field wall. These two mighty blasts provided all the runs Chinese Taipei would need to secure their victory, sending their traveling supporters into a frenzy while stunning the home crowd into silence. 比賽的關鍵時刻出現在第五局，當時中華隊攻勢開始發威，面對日本王牌投手戶鄉翔征。林家正率先擊出一發單打全壘打，將球轟進右外野看台。當隊長陳傑憲——這位在整個賽事中打擊率高達六成以上的好手——轟出三分全壘打越過中外野全壘打牆時，氣氛達到最高潮。這兩發全壘打為中華隊拿下了獲勝所需的分數，讓前來加油的球迷陷入瘋狂，同時也讓主場觀眾鴉雀無聲。 Chinese Taipei's pitching performance was equally impressive, with four pitchers combining to hold Japan's typically explosive offense to just four hits. Starting pitcher Yu-Min Lin, a promising prospect for the Arizona Diamondbacks, set the tone by allowing only one hit over four strong innings. The bullpen trio of Yi Chang, Kuan-Yu Chen, and Kai-Wei Lin then completed the shutout, with the game ending dramatically on a line-drive double play that sent the Chinese Taipei fans into wild celebration. Throughout the entire game, Japan's powerful lineup never managed to advance a runner beyond second base. 中華隊的投手表現同樣令人印象深刻，四位投手聯手讓日本隊向來強大的打線僅得到四支安打。先發投手林昱珉——亞利桑那響尾蛇隊的有望新秀——在先發四局的優質表現中只被擊出一支安打，為球隊定下基調。牛棚三劍客張奕、陳冠宇和林凱威接力完成完封，最後以精彩的平飛強球雙殺打結束比賽，讓中華隊球迷陷入狂喜。整場比賽中，日本隊強大的打線始終無法將跑者推進到二壘包以上。 Manager Hao-Jiu Tseng's strategic decision to rest Yu-Min Lin for the final proved instrumental in the victory. Despite facing criticism and a fine for modifying his lineup in an earlier game, Tseng's bold choice paid off magnificently. In his post-game comments, he remained humble, acknowledging that while this victory was significant, Japan still sets the standard in international baseball. "This one win is not everything," Tseng remarked, emphasizing the need for continued improvement and development of his young team. The victory not only earned Chinese Taipei the gold medal but also established them as the third different nation to win the Premier12 championship, following Korea and Japan's previous triumphs. 總教練曾豪駒為決賽保留林昱珉的策略性決定，成為勝利的關鍵。儘管因為在先前的比賽中調整陣容而面臨批評和罰款，但曾教練的大膽選擇最終獲得了豐碩的成果。在賽後採訪中，他保持謙遜，承認這場勝利雖然意義重大，但日本隊仍是國際棒球的標竿。「這一場勝利並不是一切，」曾教練表示，強調球隊年輕陣容需要持續進步和發展。這場勝利不僅為中華隊帶來金牌，更讓他們成為繼韓國和日本之後，第三個贏得世界棒球12強賽冠軍的國家。 Keyword Drills 關鍵字：Spectators (Spec-ta-tors) The historic victory, witnessed by over 41,000 spectators at the Tokyo Dome, marked Chinese Taipei's first major international tournament win.Monumental (Mon-u-men-tal) For a team that had never won gold in a major international tournament, this victory represented a monumental breakthrough.Dramatically (Dra-mat-i-cal-ly) The game ending dr

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- Topic: Spain Turns to Corruption Rehab for Officials Who Can’t Stop Stealing Carlos Alburquerque isn’t your typical rehab candidate. He’s a 75-year-old grandfather living in Córdoba, a city in southern Spain. He was a town notary before he retired in 2015. He hasn’t touched drugs or alcohol in years. 卡洛斯‧阿布奎基不是常人眼中該進勒戒所的人。他住在西班牙南部哥多華市，是個75歲的祖父。2015年退休前他是市鎮公證人。他已多年沒碰毒品和酒。 But his isn’t your typical rehab program: It’s an 11-month boot camp to reform corrupt Spanish officials and “reinsert” them into mainstream society. 但他接受的並非一般勒戒計畫，而是為期11個月的訓練營，目的是改造西班牙的貪官汙吏，並將他們「重新注入」主流社會。 “Repairing the damage is what is left for me in this life,” said Alburquerque, who is serving a four-year prison sentence for stealing around 400,000 euros (nearly $500,000) in his work drawing up contracts and deeds. 阿布奎基說：「這一生只求彌補過錯。」他在草擬合約和地契時私吞約40萬歐元（近50萬美元），被判入獄4年。 Over the course of 32 sessions in an austere conference room in Córdoba’s penitentiary, Alburquerque will be monitored by a team of psychiatrists. He will sit for group therapy sessions with titles like “personal abilities” and “values.” He is, in some ways, the guinea pig of an experiment meant to answer an age-old question: Buried deep in the soul of a swindler like Alburquerque, might there be an honest man? 在哥多華監獄一間簡樸的會議室內進行32次療程期間，阿布奎基將受到一組精神科醫生監控。他將參加「個人能力」和「價值」等團體治療課程。某種程度上，他是一個實驗的白老鼠，實驗旨在回答一個老問題：像阿布奎基這種騙子的心靈深處，會有個誠實的自我嗎？ That such a program exists in Spain may say much about the country’s belief in second chances as it does about how corruption has captured the public imagination here. Flip open a newspaper or turn on the radio: You will hear of schemes, scandals and skulduggery. 西班牙有此計畫，說明該國相信第二次機會，以及貪腐問題受公眾注視。翻開報紙或打開收音機，你會聽到陰謀、醜聞與詐欺。 Ángel Luis Ortiz, a former judge who now runs Spain’s prisons, said the boom-bust cycles of Spain’s economy had led it to a long history of fraudsters and betrayals of public trust. 曾任法官、現在主管西班牙監獄的安赫爾‧路易斯‧歐提茲說，西班牙經濟的盛衰循環，造就了詐欺和背叛公眾信任的悠久歷史。 But at least, corruption rates in Spain were no worse than in other European nations, Ortiz said, just 5% of all crimes.It was Spain’s will to rehabilitate the offenders that set it apart from the rest, Ortiz said. 歐提茲表示，西班牙貪瀆率並不比其他歐洲國家高，僅占所有刑事案件的5%。西班牙想讓罪犯自新，才是它有別於他國之處。 Nine prisons are running programs so far, which began in March. Prisoners don’t get reduced sentences for joining, but officials say participating is looked on favorably when it comes time to request parole. 目前已有9所監獄實施這項從3月開始的計畫。囚犯不會因為加入而獲減刑，但參加者申請假釋時會加分。 Yet for all the volunteers, Ortiz still thinks his biggest challenge may be convincing Spain’s corrupt officials that there actually might be something wrong with them. 雖有不少人自願參加，歐提茲仍認為，最大挑戰可能在於讓西班牙的貪腐官員相信，他們可能真的有問題。 For that, the government turned to Sergio Ruiz, a prison psychiatrist who helped design the program. Ruiz said that in addition to getting participants to recognize their flaws in group therapy, inmates would eventually be asked to participate in “restorative justice” sessions where they would ask for forgiveness from their victims. 政府為此求助於監獄精神科醫生塞吉奧‧魯伊茲，他幫忙設計了這個計畫。他表示除了讓參加者在團體治療中認識到自身缺陷外，最終還會要求他們參加「修復式正義」的課程，請求受害者饒恕。Source article: https://udn.com/news/story/6904/5495283 Next Article Topic: ’Best birthday present ever!’ says Spanish diver after saving trapped whale In a gripping underwater rescue, Spanish divers have freed a 12-metre long humpback whale entangled in an illegal drift net off the Balearic island of Mallorca. 在一起扣人心弦的水下營救中，西班牙潛水夫在巴利亞利的馬約卡島外海釋放了一隻纏繞在非法流刺網中的12公尺長的座頭鯨。 One of the divers, 32-year-old marine biologist Gigi Torras, said last Friday’s rescue and a little gesture of appreciation from the giant mammal were also a birthday present for her - the ’best ever’ in her words. 其中一名潛水夫，32歲的海洋生物學家吉吉．托利斯說，上週五的營救和來自這隻巨大哺乳類的一些謝意表現，也是給她的生日禮物－用她的話說就是「歷來最棒」。 The weakened whale had been spotted by a ship about three miles off the eastern coast of Mallorca, prompting Palma de Mallorca’s Aquarium marine rescue centre into action. 一艘船隻在馬約卡東岸外海3英里處瞥見這頭衰弱的鯨魚，促使馬約卡島的水族館海洋營救中心投入行動。 After initial attempts to cut the net from a boat failed, divers plunged into the sea to remove the mesh with their knives in a daring 45-minute operation. 在最初從船上切斷漁網的嘗試失敗後，潛水夫潛入海中，在45分鐘的大膽行動中，用他們的刀子移除漁網。 Nicknamed "walls of death" for the quantity of other sea life they catch in addition to the fish they are set for, drift nets were banned by the United Nations 30 years ago. 流刺網有「死亡之牆」的綽號，30年前

15Mins x NordVPN 獨家優惠 ➼  https://nordvpn.com/fifteenminutes 使用專屬折扣碼 【 fifteenminutes 】購買優惠方案即加贈 4 個月 並享有 30 天試用期，可隨時取消，完全零風險！ ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- 歡迎回到《Teacher's Lounge 幕後教師室》！本集邀請John老師和阿鍵老師分享教師們的年末假期時光。 從感恩節的溫馨慶祝，到黑五和網購星期一的購物狂歡，兩位老師分享了不少精彩故事！隨著聖誕節腳步近了，我們也探討了企業，尤其是科技公司如何在假期期間妥善安排人力。 展望2025年，我們不僅回顧今年的願望清單，也分享了聽眾在英語學習上的成長故事。最後，想要邀請你一同重新預備2025年的新年目標，也歡迎到FB/IG跟我們聊聊今年的完成度如何。 想要獲得更多精彩內容，別忘了訂閱VIP會員，還能享有主題許願喔！ https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- Summary: Sweden conducted a two-year long study on productivity and worker health. They found that working a 6-hour day can make workers happier, healthier, and more productive. However, the disadvantage of doing so is the extreme cost that came along with it. 完整文章 From article: http://www.15mins.today/blog/520-in-sweden-happiness-in-a-shorter-workday-can-t-overcome-the-cost Vocabulary and sample sentences: Wrap up – complete / conclude a discussion or eventThe meeting was wrapped up in 30 minutes.Let's wrap up this conference call in the next 10minutes, ok? Stoked – (add fuel to fire) encourage or incite (add fuel to) - (slang) happy, proud of oneself Stoker - the person who adds coal to the locomotiveDonald Trump stoked controversy with his comments on the border wall.(slang) I am stoked about the party this weekend! Skepticism n. – idea of doubting the truth (doubt, doubtfulness) Skeptic n. - person who is skeptical Skeptical adj. - having doubts, not easily convincedSkepticism regarding the health benefits of e-cigarettes is growing amongst the youth.Skeptics do not believe Donald Trump will be able to build a wall.In order to survive the information age, one must be skeptical of the information on the Internet.

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- Hello hello 我是醬老師～ 這集跟Patrick討論了全聯從軍公教福利中心變成台灣零售巨頭的歷史回顧。除了分享颱風天搶購的經驗，也聊到全聯如何成為台灣購物文化中不可或缺的一部分。 我們還比較了傳統市場和現代連鎖超市的差異，並給大家一些好用日常購物相關的慣用語。你對全聯有什麼樣的記憶呢？歡迎來信跟我們分享！ Hello hello 15Mins fam! Patrick and I dove into PX Mart's fascinating transformation from a military supply store to Taiwan's retail giant. We also shared our typhoon shopping experiences and discussed how it's become central to Taiwan's shopping culture. We also compared traditional markets with modern grocery chains and included some useful shopping related idioms for you. Share with us your childhood memories of PX Mart and we will give you a shout out!

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- 國際時事跟讀 Ep.K895: Robert Downey Jr. Takes Stand Against AI Replication in Entertainment Highlights 主題摘要：Robert Downey Jr. has taken legal precautions against future AI replication of his likeness, demonstrating the growing concern about artificial intelligence's role in entertainment intellectual property.The entertainment industry is actively addressing AI challenges through strikes and new legislation, particularly California's law protecting deceased performers' likenesses from unauthorized digital reproduction.Despite his own investments in AI technology for environmental and security purposes, Downey maintains strict boundaries between beneficial AI applications and potential misuse in entertainment. Robert Downey Jr., the acclaimed actor known for his iconic role as Tony Stark in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, has taken a bold stance against the use of artificial intelligence to recreate his likeness. During a recent appearance on the "On With Kara Swisher" podcast, Downey declared his intention to pursue legal action against any future executives who attempt to use AI-generated versions of his performance. Despite acknowledging that he would likely be deceased when such situations might arise, the actor confidently stated that his law firm would remain vigilant in protecting his legacy. 小勞勃道尼以其在漫威電影宇宙中飾演東尼史塔克（鋼鐵人）的經典角色聞名，他對於使用人工智慧重現其肖像一事採取了堅定的立場。在最近的《On With Kara Swisher》 Podcast 節目中，道尼宣布他打算對任何試圖使用 AI 生成版本來重現其表演的未來高層採取法律行動。儘管承認當這種情況發生時，他可能已經離世，但這位演員仍然自信地表示，他的律師事務所將持續警戒，以保護他的傳承。 The Oscar-winning performer's concerns reflect a growing debate within the entertainment industry about the ethical implications of AI technology. This issue has become particularly prominent in recent months, as evidenced by the ongoing Hollywood video game performers' strike, which began in July 2024. The strike primarily centers around concerns about AI protections, with performers' unions viewing the matter as an existential crisis for their members. These concerns were also central to last year's film and television strikes, which ultimately resulted in new agreements requiring productions to obtain informed consent before using actors' digital replicas. 這位奧斯卡得主的擔憂反映了娛樂產業內對 AI 技術倫理影響的持續爭議。這個議題在近幾個月變得特別突出，從 2024 年 7 月開始的好萊塢電玩演員罷工就可見一斑。這場罷工主要圍繞 AI 保護的問題，演員工會視其為會員們面臨的存亡危機。這些顧慮也是去年影視業罷工的核心議題，最終促使製作方在使用演員數位複製前必須取得知情同意的新協議。 While Downey maintains a practical involvement with AI technology through his investments in environmental and cybersecurity initiatives, he draws a clear distinction between these applications and the potential misuse of AI in entertainment. The actor, who is currently making his Broadway debut in "McNeal," a play that explores themes of artificial intelligence and artistic integrity, emphasized that his trust in current Marvel executives doesn't eliminate his concerns about future leadership. Despite his confidence that the current decision-makers at Marvel would never misuse his likeness, he remains proactive about protecting his rights in the long term. 雖然道尼透過在環保和網路安全領域的投資，實際參與了 AI 技術的發展，但他明確區分了這些應用與在娛樂界濫用 AI 的可能性。這位正在百老匯首演《McNeal》的演員，在這齣探討人工智慧和藝術完整性主題的舞台劇中強調，他對現任漫威高層的信任並不能消除他對未來領導層的擔憂。儘管他相信現任的漫威決策者絕不會濫用他的肖像，但他仍積極維護自己的長期權益。 Looking ahead, Downey's career continues to evolve with his upcoming role as Doctor Doom in "Avengers: Doomsday," scheduled for release in 2026. This new chapter in his relationship with Marvel comes with the backdrop of California's recent legislation, signed in September, which prohibits the unauthorized replication of deceased performers' likenesses without prior consent. This law, sponsored by SAG-AFTRA, provides additional legal protection for performers concerned about the posthumous use of their images and performances. The actor's stance reflects a broader industry-wide movement to establish clear boundaries and ethical guidelines for the use of AI technology in entertainment, ensuring that artists maintain control over their creative legacies. 展望未來，道尼的演藝事業將隨著他在預定 2026 年上映的《復仇者聯盟：末日》中飾演毀滅博士而繼續發展。他與漫威的這段新篇章，恰逢加州最近簽署了一項法案，禁止未經事先同意便擅自複製已故演員的肖像。這項由演員工會所提出的法案，為關注死後肖像和演出被使用的演員提供了額外的法律保護。這位演員的立場反映了整個產業建立明確界限和 AI 技術使用道德準則的廣泛運動，確保藝術家能夠掌控自己的創作遺產。 Keyword Drills 關鍵字：Cinematic (Ci-ne-ma-tic): Robert Downey Jr., the acclaimed actor known for his iconic role as Tony Stark in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, has taken a bold stance against the use of artificial intelligence.Existential (Ex-is-ten-ti

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- 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. 2

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- 在這個感恩節的週末，歡迎各位通勤家族回到《Teacher's Lounge 幕後教師室》！值班老師 John 和阿鍵兩三週沒和大家打招呼，好久不見實在非常想念大家。 本週我們要來回顧忙碌又精彩的十一月！John 老師最近參加了 Dua Lipa 的演唱會，還去看了F1賽車《HP Watch Party》，真的是在節目裡提到的願望一一實現！而阿鍵老師則沉浸在戲劇的世界裡，欣賞了幾場精彩的舞台劇。 隨著年底Holiday Season將至，十二月想必會更加熱鬧，從聖誕節慶典到交換禮物，精彩活動接踵而來！在這感恩的季節，通勤學英語要特別感謝各位一整年來的支持與陪伴。明年我們還準備了更多令人期待的新計畫，敬請拭目以待！ 聽完本集歡迎到 FB/IG 私訊或留言分享心得。別忘了，想要獲得更多精彩內容，歡迎訂閱我們的 VIP 會員，還能享有主題許願喔！ https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- Summary: Pop music is ubiquitous and it is everywhere. You can't run away from it. This article talks about how the rules of pop music has changed. The billboard, an American company that measures your record's success has changed their parameters. Before, record companies decided what was pop and what was not. Now, they are looking at the streaming media. If you are a top streaming artist, you get to also join the billboard. This article also mentioned that the billboard recently has drifted from being white, to now hip-hop as one of the top genres in the world. 完整文章 From article: http://www.15mins.today/blog/516-the-old-pop-music-is-over-introducing-a-playbook-for-pop-2-0 Vocabulary and sample sentences: Playbook (a book containing a sports team's strategies and plays, especially in football)The Internet has changed the playbook on what happens to a pop-star's career.The playbook for copyright infringement has changed a lot recently in the European Union Genre (a category of art, music, literature that share similar form, style, or subject matter)Friday the thirteenth is a movie in the "horror" genre.Starwars movie is in the "science-fiction" genre.The hip-hop is the new genre (in music) to rule them all. An encyclopedia falls under the "non-fiction" genre.Exorbitant (unreasonably high price, too expensive)When you go on holiday during Chinese New Year, prices are exorbitant.In Chinese New Year, you pay exorbitant prices for travel.If you eat at Sogo, the prices are exorbitant.

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- 本集節目中，我們探討感恩節在美國和台灣的文化意義，特別聚焦於美式火雞大餐和台灣的「嘉義火雞肉飯」。我們討論火雞肉飯獨特的製作方式、美味的醬汁，以及其在台灣的歷史淵源。節目最後以輕鬆的方式提出設立「火雞肉飯日」的想法，藉此慶祝這道深受歡迎的美食，同時推薦在地美食，強調感恩和團聚的主題。 In this episode of 15Mins Cafe, we explore the cultural significance of Thanksgiving in the U.S. and Taiwan, focusing on the American turkey dinner and its Taiwanese counterpart, "Chai turkey rice." We discuss the unique preparation of turkey rice, its flavorful sauces, and its historical roots in Taiwan. The episode wraps up with a lighthearted proposal for a "Turkey Rice Day" to celebrate this beloved dish, alongside recommendations for local delicacies, emphasizing themes of gratitude and togetherness.

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- 國際時事跟讀 Ep.K891: China's Singles' Day Shopping Festival Faces Economic Headwinds Highlights 主題摘要：Consumer behavior in China has fundamentally shifted, with people becoming more skeptical of promotional tactics and moving away from luxury goods towards experience-based and health-related purchases.E-commerce platforms are adapting to domestic market challenges by expanding internationally, with significant success in markets like Singapore and Hong Kong through strategies like global free shipping.Despite Beijing's stimulus measures, consumer confidence remains low, reflecting broader economic concerns including deflationary pressures, leading to more conservative spending patterns during major shopping events. The world's largest shopping extravaganza, Singles' Day, is experiencing a significant transformation as China grapples with economic challenges. Originally launched by Alibaba in 2009, this annual shopping festival, celebrated on November 11 (11.11), has traditionally been a barometer of consumer confidence in the world's second-largest economy. However, this year's event reflects a marked shift in consumer behavior and retail strategies amid China's ongoing economic slowdown and deflationary pressures, prompting both businesses and consumers to reassess their participation in this once-celebrated shopping bonanza. 全球最大的購物盛會「光棍節」，隨著中國面臨經濟挑戰而經歷重大轉變。這個最初由阿里巴巴在 2009 年推出的年度購物節，在每年 11 月 11 日舉行，一直以來都是全球第二大經濟體消費者信心的測試器。然而，今年的活動反映出消費者行為和零售策略明顯轉變，在中國持續的經濟放緩和通貨緊縮壓力下，促使企業和消費者重新評估他們對這個曾經備受歡迎的購物盛會的參與度。 The festival's changing dynamics are evident in how both merchants and consumers approach the event. While previous years saw enthusiastic participation and record-breaking sales figures, recent editions have shown more reserved spending patterns. Many shoppers, like Beijing fitness center owner Wang Haihua, have become increasingly skeptical of promotional tactics, noting that the discounts aren't as attractive as they once were. Similarly, merchants are finding it harder to justify the high costs of participating in the festival, with some reporting that advertising expenses barely break even with sales revenue. This sentiment is echoed by business owners like Zhang Jiewei, a Xi'an barber shop owner, who has significantly reduced his Singles' Day spending due to lower income and growing distrust of promotional pricing strategies. 從商家和消費者對待這項活動的方式可以看出節慶氛圍的轉變。雖然往年都有熱烈參與和破紀錄的銷售數字，但近期的活動呈現出較為保守的消費模式。許多消費者，如北京健身中心老闆王海華，對促銷策略越來越持懷疑態度，指出折扣 已不如從前吸引人。同樣地，商家們發現參與節慶活動的高額成本越來越難以回收，有些商家表示廣告支出僅能勉強達到收支平衡。西安理髮店老闆張杰偉也表達了類似看法，由於收入降低和對促銷定價策略的不信任感增加，他大幅減少了光棍節的消費支出。 In response to the sluggish domestic market, e-commerce platforms are adopting new strategies to maintain growth. Companies like Alibaba have expanded their focus to international markets, offering global free shipping and enabling merchants to sell worldwide. This pivot has shown promising results, with some 70,000 merchants reportedly doubling their sales through global shipping initiatives. Markets in Singapore and Hong Kong have seen a significant increase in new customer acquisition, demonstrating the potential of cross-border e-commerce. While platforms previously published detailed transaction values, they have become more reserved in sharing specific figures since 2022, with industry estimates suggesting modest single-digit growth compared to the double-digit increases of previous years. 為應對疲軟的國內市場，電商平台正採取新策略以維持成長。像阿里巴巴這樣的公司已將重點擴展到國際市場，提供全球免運費並讓商家能夠在全球範圍內銷售。這個轉向策略已顯現出成效，據報導約有 7 萬家商家透過全球運送方案使銷售額翻倍。新加坡和香港等市場的新客戶數量大幅增加，展現出跨境電商的潛力。雖然平台過去會公布詳細的交易額，但自 2022 年以來，分享具體數據時變得更加謹慎，產業估計顯示僅有個位數的溫和成長，相較於往年的兩位數增長有所下降。 The transformation of Singles' Day reflects broader changes in Chinese consumer behavior and economic conditions. Experts note that Beijing's recent stimulus measures have had limited success in boosting consumer confidence, with many shoppers becoming more selective in their purchases. While traditional luxury items have seen decreased demand, categories such as sportswear, fitness equipment, and premium branded goods in personal care and outdoor activities have maintained stronger sales. This shift suggests a fundamental change in consumer priorities, moving away from conspicuous consumption toward experiences, hobbies, and health-related purchases. As the festival evolves, it serves as an important indicator of both the challenges and opportunities in China's changing

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- 1. The Beatles 披頭四樂團 Quote: "Life is what happens to you while you're busymaking other plans." 名言：「人生就是當你忙著規劃時，意外發生的事。」 The Beatles, formed in Liverpool in1960, became the most influential band in popular music history. Initially, they performed in Hamburg, Germany, playing in clubs for up to eight hours a night. This period was crucial for their development - they had to learn German phrases to communicate with audiences, making them understand the importance of connecting with listeners across language barriers. The band's original lineup included John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, Pete Best (later replaced by Ringo Starr), and Stuart Sutcliffe. Their manager, Brian Epstein, discovered them at Liverpool's Cavern Club, where they had played nearly 300 times. The band holds multiple records: they have the most number-one hits on the Billboard Hot 100 (20), have sold over 1.6 billion records worldwide, and were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1988. Interestingly, despite their global success, none of the Beatles could read or write musical notation - they learned their music by ear, proving that formal training isn't always necessary for artistic achievement. Their journey from working-class Liverpool to international stardom demonstrates how music can transcend cultural and linguistic boundaries. 披頭四1960年在利物浦成立，成為流行音樂史上最具影響力的樂團。早期，他們在德國漢堡的夜店演出，一晚上要表演長達八小時。這段經歷對他們的發展極為關鍵－他們必須學習德語詞彙與觀眾溝通，讓他們了解到跨越語言障礙與聽眾連結的重要性。樂團最初的陣容包括約翰·藍儂、保羅·麥卡尼、喬治·哈里森、皮特·貝斯特（後來由林哥·史達取代）和史都華·薩特克里夫。他們的經紀人布萊恩·艾普斯坦在利物浦的Cavern俱樂部發掘他們，當時他們已在那裡演出近300場。樂團保持多項紀錄：在告示牌百大單曲榜擁有最多冠軍歌曲（20首），全球唱片銷量超過16億張，1988年入選搖滾名人堂。有趣的是，儘管他們在全球取得成功，披頭四成員都不會看樂譜或寫樂譜－他們全靠耳朵學習音樂，證明正式訓練並非藝術成就的必要條件。他們從利物浦工人階級躍上國際巨星的旅程，展現了音樂如何能超越文化和語言的界限。 2. Queen 皇后樂團 Quote: "I won't be a rock star. I will be a legend." 名言：「我不會只當個搖滾明星，我要成為傳奇。」 Queen formed in London in 1970 whenFreddie Mercury joined Brian May and Roger Taylor's band Smile. Their academic backgrounds are fascinating - Brian May has a PhD in astrophysics, Roger Taylor studied dentistry, and John Deacon has an electronics degree, while Freddie Mercury (born Farrokh Bulsara) had a degree in art and graphic design. Mercury, who grew up in Zanzibar and India before moving to England, spoke multiple languages including English, Hindi, and Gujarati. The band's name "Queen" was chosen by Mercury, who said "It's very regal obviously, and it sounds splendid... It's a strong name, very universal and immediate." Their song "Bohemian Rhapsody" broke conventions by incorporating operatic passages and made-up words, showing how creative language use can enhance artistic expression. The band's Live Aid performance in 1985 is considered one of the greatest live performances in rock history. Queen's songs are particularly popular among English learners because of their clear diction, storytelling lyrics, and dramatic delivery. They have sold over 300 million records worldwide, making them one of the best-selling music artists of all time. 皇后樂團1970年在倫敦成立，當時佛萊迪·墨裘瑞加入布萊恩·梅和羅傑·泰勒的Smile樂團。他們的學術背景十分特別－布萊恩·梅擁有天體物理學博士學位，羅傑·泰勒曾讀牙醫，約翰·迪肯有電子工程學位，而佛萊迪·墨裘瑞（原名法魯克·布薩拉）則擁有藝術與平面設計學位。墨裘瑞在桑吉巴爾和印度長大後移居英國，能說多種語言，包括英語、印地語和古吉拉特語。樂團名稱「Queen」是墨裘瑞所取，他說：「很明顯這很高貴，聽起來很華麗...這是個很有力量的名字，具有普遍性和即時性。」他們的歌曲《波希米亞狂想曲》打破常規，融入歌劇段落和自創詞彙，展現創意用語如何能提升藝術表現。樂團1985年的Live Aid演出被認為是搖滾史上最偉大的現場表演之一。皇后樂團的歌曲特別受英語學習者歡迎，因為發音清晰、歌詞富有故事性，且表現戲劇化。他們全球唱片銷量超過3億張，是史上最暢銷的音樂團體之一。 3. Led Zeppelin 齊柏林飛船 Quote: "Good times, bad times, you know I've had my share." 名言：「好時光，壞時光，你知道我都經歷過。」 Led Zeppelin formed in London in 1968, after The Yardbirds dissolved and guitarist Jimmy Page recruited singer Robert Plant, drummer John Bonham, and bassist John Paul Jones. The band's name came from a joke by Keith Moon of The Who, who said their idea would go down like a "lead balloon." They changed the spelling to "Led" to prevent mispronunciation. Their first album was recorded in just 36 hours with a cost of £1,782. Led Zeppelin pioneered album-oriented rock and creative studio techniques - they were one of the first bands to use natural room acoustics for recording. The band refused to release singles in the UK, insisting their music should be heard as complete albums. Their most famous song, "Stairway to Heaven," was partly inspired by Plant's interest in Celtic mythology and literature. Plant wrote many of the band's lyrics while reading books about mythology, fantasy, and J.R.R. Tolkien's works,

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- Summary: As of last year, Norway is now the global leader in the promotion and sales of eco-friendly cars. About 52% of the cars sold last year are vehicles using an alternative type of fuel. Apart from Tesla, other carmakers such as Volkswagen, BMW, Volvo, and Ford are investing millions in the production of electric vehicles. Norway, by 2025 wants to phase out all diesel and gasoline cars. 完整文章 From article: http://www.15mins.today/blog/506-in-norway-electric-and-hybrid-cars-outsell-conventional-models Vocabulary and sample sentences: Incentive (attraction or something to encourage people to do something)The Norwegian government is offering incentives to people purchasing electric vehicles.Taoyuan government offers generous incentives to people purchasing a gogoro. (to) phase out – the process of discontinuing somethingMany European countries are planning to phase out diesel and gasoline cars.Apple will phase out smartphones with a physical home button. Ubiquitous – something that is present or found everywhereSmart devices are becoming increasingly ubiquitous in our daily livesMany car companies believe that electric cars will become as ubiquitous as diesel and gasoline cars.

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- 在本集節目中，我們分析了麥可·布雷（Michael Bublé）翻唱的經典歌曲《Save the Last Dance for Me》。醬老師和詩敏老師一起探討這首歌的文化意義與其中的愛情主題，並挑戰其表面看似簡單的印象。我們深入了解這首歌的歷史背景及其情感深度，特別聚焦於創作者Doc Pomus的感人故事，以及最後一支舞所傳達的真諦。討論中還比較了現代約會文化與過去的差異，並強調音樂在情感連結中的重要角色。對這集有感嗎？歡迎來留言！ In this episode, we analyze the song "Save the Last Dance for Me," famously covered by Michael Bublé. John and Shimin discuss its cultural significance and relationship themes, challenging the notion of its simplicity. We explore the song’s history and emotional depth, focusing on Doc Pomus's inspiring backstory and the meaning behind the last dance. The conversation reflects on modern dating dynamics compared to the past, highlighting music's role in fostering emotional connections.

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- 國際時事跟讀 Ep.K887: SpaceX Achieves Historic Milestone with Revolutionary Rocket Landing Highlights 主題摘要：SpaceX achieved a historic first by successfully catching its Super Heavy booster with mechanical arms during landing, demonstrating significant progress in developing reusable rocket technology for space exploration.The Starship test flight demonstrated dual success: the booster's precise capture and the upper stage's accurate ocean landing, despite post-landing explosion, fulfilling both major mission objectives.This achievement has significant implications for NASA's space program, with $2.8 billion invested in Starship development, bringing us closer to regular space travel and future lunar missions. In a groundbreaking achievement for space exploration, SpaceX successfully completed its fifth test flight of the Starship rocket system, marking a significant advancement in reusable rocket technology. The most remarkable aspect of this mission was the unprecedented capture of the Super Heavy booster, the rocket's lower section, by mechanical arms at the launch tower. This innovative landing method, attempted for the first time, demonstrates SpaceX's progress toward developing fully reusable spacecraft for future missions to the Moon and Mars. The successful capture was met with enthusiastic celebration from SpaceX engineers, who declared it "a day for the history books." 在太空探索領域中， SpaceX 成功完成了 Starship 火箭系統的第五次測試飛行，顯示出突破性成就：可重複使用火箭技術的重大進展。此次任務最引人注目的部分是首次以機械臂成功捕捉 SpaceX 超級重型推進器，也就是火箭的下半部分。這種創新的降落方式是首次嘗試，展現了 SpaceX 在開發可完全重複使用的太空船方面的進展，為未來登月及火星任務奠定基礎。SpaceX 的工程師們以熱烈的歡呼慶祝這次成功，並宣告這是「寫入歷史的一天」。 The test flight began at sunrise from SpaceX's Boca Chica facility in Texas, where the massive rocket system, consisting of two parts - the Super Heavy booster and the Starship upper stage - lifted off as planned. After reaching an altitude of approximately 40 miles, the two sections separated perfectly. The Super Heavy booster then performed an intricate maneuver, navigating back to the launch site where it was caught by the tower's mechanical arms, nicknamed "chopsticks." This achievement was particularly impressive given the complex nature of the operation and the numerous criteria that needed to be met for the landing attempt. 測試飛行在德克薩斯州博卡奇卡設施的日出時分展開並如期升空，這個龐大的火箭系統由兩個部分組成—— SpaceX 超級重型推進器和上層的 SpaceX 星艦。在到達約 40 英里的高度後，兩個部分完美分離。隨後，SpaceX 超級重型推進器執行了一串複雜的動作，導航返回發射場，被暱稱為「筷子」的發射塔機械臂成功捕捉。考慮到操作的複雜性和需要滿足的諸多降落條件，這項成就格外令人印象深刻。 Meanwhile, the Starship upper stage continued its journey, reaching an altitude of nearly 90 miles and achieving speeds of 17,000 miles per hour before making a precise landing in the Indian Ocean. The spacecraft's re-entry was notably successful, with improved heat-shielding tiles protecting it during the descent. Although the vehicle exploded after splashdown, SpaceX CEO Elon Musk confirmed that the ship had landed exactly as planned, marking the completion of both major mission objectives. 與此同時，上段的 SpaceX 星艦繼續其航程，到達近 90 英里的高度，速度達到每小時 17，000 英里，最後精確地降落在印度洋。太空船重返大氣層的過程相當成功，改良後的隔熱瓦在下降過程中提供了良好的保護。儘管載具在落海後爆炸，SpaceX 執行長伊隆．馬斯克確認太空船已如期精確著陸，顯現兩大主要目標任務已完成。 This successful test flight represents a crucial step forward for both SpaceX and NASA's space exploration goals. The U.S. space agency has invested $2.8 billion in SpaceX's Starship development, aiming to use the vehicle for future lunar missions. The ability to catch and rapidly redeploy the Super Heavy booster significantly reduces the need for complex ground hardware and brings us closer to the reality of regular space travel. Former astronaut Chris Hadfield praised the achievement on social media, describing it as "an enormous step forward in human capability" and expressing excitement for humanity's collective future in space exploration. 這次成功的試飛為 SpaceX 和美國太空總署（NASA）的太空探索目標邁出了關鍵的一步。NASA 已投資 28 億美元於 SpaceX 的星艦開發計畫，期望未來能應用於月球任務。能夠捕捉並快速重新部署SpaceX 超級重型推進器的能力，大幅減少了對複雜地面硬體設施的需求，使我們更加接近實現常態化的太空旅行。前太空人克里斯．哈德菲爾德在社群媒體上讚揚這項成就，稱其為「人類能力的重大進展」，並對人類在太空探索方面的共同未來表達期待。 Keyword Drills 關鍵字：Exploration (Ex-plo-ra-tion): In a groundbreaking achievement for space exploration, SpaceX successfully completed its fifth test flight of the Starship rocket system.Reusable (Re-us-a-ble): The most remarkable aspect of this mission was the unprecedented capture of the Super Heavy booster, marking a significant advancement in reusable rocket technology.Criteria (Cri-te-ri-a): This achievement

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- Topic: Sellout Culture Is a Problem for Pro Golf Even if you don’t play or follow golf — which I don’t — you’re probably aware of the controversy now engulfing the game. A number of the world’s top-ranked pro players, notably Phil Mickelson, made extremely lucrative deals to play in a new tour, the LIV Golf International Series, sponsored by Saudi Arabia. The PGA Tour, which has traditionally dominated the sport, responded by suspending 17 of these players. 即便不打或不追高球新聞—我也沒追—你也可能知道現在這項運動捲入爭議。一些世界頂級職業球員，尤其是米克森，達成極其有利可圖的交易參加沙烏地阿拉伯贊助的新巡迴賽，即LIV高球國際系列賽。傳統上主導這項運動的職業高球美巡賽（PGA Tour）對此做出回應，將其中17名球員禁賽。 The Saudis are obviously engaged in reputation-laundering — greenswashing? — in an attempt to make people forget about the atrocities their regime has perpetrated. It’s less clear what motivated the PGA. Did it consider the LIV series flawed, not a proper golf tour? Was it attempting to squash competition? Or was the problem with the LIV series’ sponsors? 沙國顯然在清洗名聲—是在「漂白」嗎？試圖讓人們忘記他們政權所犯下的暴行。目前還不太清楚什麼原因驅使PGA這樣做。它是否認為LIV系列賽有缺陷，不是個像樣的高球巡迴賽？它會不會是在試圖壓制競爭嗎？或是LIV系列賽贊助者的問題？ PGA attendees surveyed by ProGolf weekly were in no doubt: An overwhelming majority attributed Mickelson’s exclusion to “media/cancel culture.” And I hope they’re right. I mean, if getting paid big bucks to provide favorable PR to a regime that deals with critical journalists by killing them and dismembering them with a bone saw doesn’t warrant cancellation, what does? And yet Mickelson and others were willing to provide that PR. 接受《ProGolf》周刊調查的PGA與會者均無疑問，絕大多數將米克森遭剔除歸因於「媒體/取消文化」。我希望他們是對的。我的意思是，拿大錢幫一個政權提供公關服務，而這個政權把批評他們的記者殺掉還肢解，如果這不是一個取消的正當理由，那什麼才是？而米克森和其他人卻願意提供這種公關服務。 So if you ask me, the real story here isn’t that the PGA may (or may not) have found a line it won’t cross. It is that so many members of the American elite evidently have no such lines. 所以，若你問我，情況並非PGA可能（或可能沒有）找到一條不會跨越的線，而是這個美國菁英組織許多成員明顯沒有這樣的界線。 What explains the rise of sellout culture? Tax cuts may have played a role: Selling your soul becomes more attractive when you get to keep more of the proceeds. Soaring income inequality may inspire envy, a desire to keep up with the super-elite. And there is surely a process of normalization: Everyone else is selling out, so why shouldn’t I join the party? 如何解釋出賣文化興起？減稅可能起到一定作用：當你能保留更多收益時，出賣你的靈魂就變得更有吸引力。日益嚴重的收入不平等可能會引發嫉妒，讓人渴望跟超級菁英攀比。當然，這是一個正常過程：其他人都在出賣，那我為何不入群呢？ Kids used to look up to public figures, sports stars in particular, as role models. Do they still? Can they, given what public figures will do if the checks are big enough? 以前孩子們常把受人尊敬的公眾人物作為榜樣，尤其是體育明星。他們還會嗎？考慮到支票夠大時公眾人物竟然這樣做，他們還能嗎？Source article: https://udn.com/news/story/6904/6413966 Next Article Topic: Why Are There More Successful Older Golfers Today? From the 18th fairway in the final group of the British Open in 2009, Tom Watson, the five-time Open champion, hit a shot that flew right at the pin. For a moment, it looked like Watson, then age 59, would win the tournament for a record sixth time and become the oldest player to win a major championship. 2009年英國公開賽最後一組第18洞的球道上，五屆冠軍華森一揮直飛旗桿。一時間，當時59歲的華森似乎將贏得創紀錄的第六座英國公開賽冠軍，並成為最年長的四大賽冠軍。 A firm bounce sent the ball off the back of the green, and Watson needed three more shots to get the ball into the hole. That dropped him into a tie for first. In the four-hole playoff, he ran out of gas and lost by six shots. 小白球強力彈跳後滾出果嶺後方，華森又花了三桿才把球送進洞裡。這使他落到並列領先。四洞延長賽，他精力耗盡，最後輸六桿。 A decade ago, the idea of an older golfer contending in, let alone winning, a major championship was something few considered. That was still the time when most golfers petered out in their mid-40s and kicked around the golf world before having a brief resurgence on the Champions Tour when they turned 50. 10年前，很少人料想得到年長的高球選手會參加四大賽，遑論拿冠軍。當時，大多數高球選手在45歲左右開始淡出，到滿50歲參加「冠軍」（譯註：長春）巡迴賽散發短暫餘暉前，其間在高球界四處晃晃。 Leading these middle-age mavericks is Phil Mickelson, 51, won the PGA Championship in May. He beat Brooks Koepka, a four-time major winner, and Louis Oosthuizen, the 2010 British Open champion, who are both in their 30s. 這些不服老的中年高球選手領導人物是剛滿51歲的米克森，他在今年5月贏得PGA錦標賽冠軍。擊敗了都是30多歲的四屆四大賽冠軍得主科普卡與2010年英國公開賽冠軍歐蘇森。 “All these guys have taken a new approach,” said Dave Phillips, co-founder of the Titleist Performance Institute, which focuses on golf and fitness. “There’s a lot of money out there. They realize they can still compete with the younger guys, but they need to spend more time on their body a

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- 1.Sam Walton (Walmart Founder) Quote: "There is only one boss: the customer. And hecan fire everybody in the company from the Chairman on down, simply by spending his money somewhere else." Samuel Moore Walton was born in 1918 inKingfisher, Oklahoma, during the Great Depression. Before creating the world's largest retail chain, he worked multiple jobs, including waiting tables and delivering newspapers. In 1945, he borrowed $20,000 from his father-in-law to buy his first retail store, a Ben Franklin franchise in Newport, Arkansas. Walton revolutionized retail by focusing on small rural towns that other retailers ignored. He would fly his own plane to visit stores and scout locations, accumulating over 230,000 flight hours. His first Walmart opened in 1962 in Rogers, Arkansas, and he introduced innovative practices like computerized inventory systems and profit-sharing with employees. Despite becoming one of the richest people in America, Walton maintained his modest lifestyle, driving the same 1979 Ford F-150 pickup truck and living in the same small house. He even continued visiting stores until shortly before his death in 1992, showing his dedication to hands-on management. Walton received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1992 for his contributions to American retail and job creation. 山姆·沃爾頓（沃爾瑪創辦人） 名言：「公司裡只有一個老闆：顧客。他可以用腳投票，只要把錢花在別處，就能讓從董事長以下的所有人都丟掉飯碗。」 山姆·摩爾·沃爾頓1918年生於奧克拉荷馬州金費舍，正值經濟大蕭條時期。在創立全球最大零售連鎖企業之前，他打過多份工，包括當服務生和送報員。1945年，他向岳父借了2萬美元，在阿肯色州紐波特買下第一間零售店，是一家班·富蘭克林加盟店。沃爾頓專注經營其他零售商忽視的小型鄉鎮，徹底改變了零售業。他開自己的飛機視察店面和勘查地點，累積超過23萬飛行小時。1962年，他在阿肯色州羅傑斯開設第一家沃爾瑪，並推出創新做法，如電腦化庫存系統和員工分紅制度。儘管成為美國首富之一，沃爾頓保持簡樸作風，開著同一輛1979年的福特F-150皮卡車，住在同一間小房子裡。直到1992年去世前不久，他仍堅持親自到店巡視，展現他對親力親為管理的堅持。沃爾頓因對美國零售業和就業市場的貢獻，於1992年獲頒總統自由勳章。 2. Jeff Bezos (Amazon Founder) Quote: "I knew that if I failed I wouldn't regret that,but I knew the one thing I might regret is not trying." Trivia (90 seconds): Born in 1964 in Albuquerque, NewMexico, Jeff Bezos showed entrepreneurial spirit from an early age. He graduated as valedictorian of his high school and studied computer science at Princeton University. Before founding Amazon, he worked on Wall Street and became the youngest senior vice president at investment firm D.E. Shaw. In 1994, Bezos read that internet usage was growing by 2,300% annually, which inspired him to start an online bookstore. He wrote Amazon's business plan while driving cross-country from New York to Seattle with his wife MacKenzie. Initially operating from his garage, Amazon sold its first book in July 1995. Bezos chose Seattle because of its large tech talent pool and proximity to a major book distributor. He based early decisions on what he called the "regret minimization framework," asking himself what he would regret least when he was 80 years old. Despite early skepticism from investors and media (who called Amazon "Amazon.bomb" during the dot-com bust), Bezos maintained his long-term vision, famously saying Amazon would be "willing to be misunderstood for long periods of time." 傑夫·貝佐斯（亞馬遜創辦人） 名言：「我知道失敗不會讓我後悔，但不去嘗試可能會讓我後悔。」 出處：2001年接受成就學院訪談 傑夫·貝佐斯1964年生於新墨西哥州阿爾伯克基，從小就展現企業家精神。他以高中第一名的成績畢業，進入普林斯頓大學主修電腦科學。創立亞馬遜之前，他在華爾街工作，成為投資公司D.E.Shaw最年輕的資深副總裁。1994年，貝佐斯讀到網路使用率年增2300%的報導，因此萌生創辦線上書店的想法。他在和妻子麥肯齊開車從紐約橫越美國到西雅圖的途中，擬定了亞馬遜的營運計畫。亞馬遜最初在他的車庫營運，1995年7月賣出第一本書。他選擇西雅圖是因為當地有豐富的科技人才和主要書商。他的早期決策都基於「後悔最小化原則」，問自己80歲時最不會後悔的選擇是什麼。儘管早期投資人和媒體持懷疑態度（網路泡沫時期稱亞馬遜為「炸彈」），貝佐斯堅持長遠眼光，他有句名言：「我們願意被誤解很長一段時間。」 3. IngvarKamprad (IKEA Founder) Quote: "Making mistakes is the privilege of the active.It is always the mediocre people who are negative, who spend their time proving that they were not wrong." Trivia (90 seconds): Ingvar Kamprad was born in 1926 inSmåland, Sweden. He began his entrepreneurial journey at age five, buying matches in bulk and reselling them to neighbors. The name IKEA combines his initials (IK) with the first letters of Elmtaryd and Agunnaryd, the farm and village where he grew up. He founded IKEA in 1943 at age 17, initially selling small household items like picture frames and pencils. The company's breakthrough came in 1956 when an employee removed the legs of a table to fit it into a car, inspiring IKEA's flat-pack furniture concept. Despite his wealth, Kamprad was known for his frugal lifestyle – he flew economy class, drove an old Volvo, and encouraged a corporate culture of cost-consciousness. He had dyslexia, which influenced IKEA's produc

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- In this episode of 15Mins Cafe, we examine the cultural significance of driving experiences, comparing our journeys to obtaining driver's licenses in South Africa and Taiwan. We discuss the unique aspects of each country's learner's license system, our personal challenges, and our excitement for upcoming car models in 2024. Patrick and I reflect on manual versus automatic transmission, modern vehicle preferences, and the rise of electric cars. Through relatable anecdotes and driving-related idioms, we explore how navigating the roads mirrors our life journeys, making for a humorous and insightful discussion. 在這一集的15Mins 英語咖啡館中，我們探討駕駛經驗的文化意義，比較在南非和台灣考取駕照的不同歷程。我們討論了兩國考照制度的獨特之處、個人在考照過程中所面臨的挑戰，以及對2024年即將推出的新車款的期待。Patrick和我分享了對手排車和自排車的看法、現代汽車的偏好，以及電動車的崛起。透過生動的軼事分享和與開車相關的俗語，我們探索了如何在人生道路上駕駛前行，帶來一場既幽默又富有洞察力的對談。

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- 國際時事跟讀 Ep.K883: Hello Kitty at 50: The Global Icon That Transcends Cultures Highlights 主題摘要：Hello Kitty's success stems from her unique adaptability and the Japanese concept of "kawaii," allowing her to remain relevant across different cultures and generations while maintaining her core appeal.Despite her cat-like appearance, Hello Kitty is officially a British schoolgirl with a detailed backstory, including family members and pets, which helps create deeper emotional connections with fans worldwide.The character's 50-year journey from a simple decoration to an $80 billion global phenomenon demonstrates how a well-crafted brand can transcend cultural boundaries and become a bridge between Eastern and Western cultures. Hello Kitty, the beloved character created by Japanese company Sanrio, celebrates her remarkable 50th birthday this November, marking half a century of unprecedented cultural influence and commercial success. What began as a simple decoration on a coin purse in 1974 has evolved into a global phenomenon worth over $80 billion, captivating audiences across generations and continents. From humble beginnings to worldwide recognition, her journey represents one of the most successful character franchises in history. 深受喜愛的角色 Hello Kitty 由日本三麗鷗公司所創造，今年十一月迎來其意義非凡的五十歲生日，標誌著半世紀以來前所未有的文化影響力與商業成就。從 1974 年最初只是錢包上的簡單裝飾，發展至今已成為價值超過 800 億美元的全球現象，吸引著跨世代、不同大陸的觀眾。從最初簡單的開始到今天的世界知名，她的旅程代表了史上最成功的角色品牌之一。 Despite her feline appearance, Hello Kitty is officially not a cat but rather a British schoolgirl named Kitty White. Standing five apples tall and weighing three apples, she lives in London with her parents and twin sister Mimmy. Her character profile includes charming details like her love for baking cookies, playing piano, and her mother's homemade apple pie. This carefully crafted backstory has helped create a deeper connection with fans worldwide. She even has her own pets: a Persian cat named Charmmy Kitty and a white Djungarian hamster called Sugar, adding layers to her character that appeal to diverse audiences. 儘管外表像貓，Hello Kitty 官方設定其實不是貓，而是一位名叫 Kitty White 的英國女學生。她身高五個蘋果、體重三個蘋果，與父母和雙胞胎妹妹 Mimmy 一起住在倫敦。她的角色設定包含許多迷人的細節，例如喜歡烤餅乾、彈鋼琴，以及最愛媽媽做的蘋果派。這些精心設計的背景故事幫助她與全球粉絲建立更深層的連結。她還養了自己的寵物：一隻波斯貓 Charmmy Kitty 和一隻三線鼠 Sugar，為她的角色增添了更多層次，吸引不同群眾。 The secret to Hello Kitty's enduring success lies in her remarkable adaptability and the concept of "kawaii" - the Japanese word for "cute" that encompasses a broader cultural significance. Under the guidance of three successive female designers, most notably Yuko Yamaguchi since 1980, Hello Kitty has remained both timeless and contemporary. Her mouthless face allows people to project their own emotions onto her, making her relatable across different cultures and contexts. This versatility has led to countless collaborations, from luxury brands to everyday products, and even earned her roles as a UNICEF children's ambassador and Japan's tourism ambassador. The character's ability to evolve while maintaining her core appeal has been crucial to her longevity in the fast-paced world of popular culture. Hello Kitty 經久不衰的成功秘訣在於她非凡的適應力，以及「可愛」（kawaii）這個日文概念——它不僅僅是可愛，更包含更廣泛的文化意涵。在三位女性設計師的相繼帶領下，特別是自 1980 年起的山口裕子（Yuko Yamaguchi），Hello Kitty 既保持經典又與時俱進。她沒有嘴巴的臉孔讓人們可以投射自己的情緒，使她在不同文化和情境中都能引起共鳴。這種多變性使她獲得了無數合作機會，從奢侈品牌到日常用品，甚至擔任聯合國兒童基金會（UNICEF）兒童大使和日本觀光大使。這個角色在保持核心魅力的同時能夠不斷進化，是她在瞬息萬變的流行文化中長盛不衰的關鍵。 As Hello Kitty enters her sixth decade, her influence shows no signs of diminishing. The character has embraced modern platforms, attracting millions of followers on TikTok and appearing in various digital formats. Recent celebrations of her 50th anniversary have included museum exhibitions, theme park spectacles, and special merchandise collections worldwide. Even Britain's King Charles acknowledged her cultural significance during a state banquet with Japan's Emperor Naruhito, demonstrating how this kawaii icon has become a bridge between Eastern and Western cultures. Hello Kitty's journey from a simple character to a global phenomenon reflects not just successful marketing but also the power of creating a symbol that resonates with universal human emotions and experiences. Her story continues to inspire new generations, proving that some cultural icons truly are timeless. 隨著 Hello Kitty 邁入第六個十年，她的影響力絲毫未減。這個角色已經擁抱現代平台，在 TikTok 上吸引了數百萬追隨者，並以各種數位形式出現。近期為慶祝她五十週年所舉辦的活動包括博物館展覽、主題樂園表演，以及全球限定商品系列。就連英國查爾斯國王在與日本德仁

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- 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 bo

【本集節目由NordVPN 贊助播出】 NordVPN 獨家優惠 ➼ https://nordvpn.com/fifteenminutes 使用專屬折扣碼 【 fifteenminutes 】購買優惠方案即加贈 4 個月 並享有 30 天試用期，可隨時取消，完全零風險！ ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb VIP會員文章主題許願表單：https://forms.gle/xyHoPydBr6LLFL9q8 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- 歡迎回到《Teacher's Lounge 幕後教師室》！本週的值班老師是 John 老師和阿鍵老師。你有出差經驗嗎？或是你經常需要出差呢？今天讓我們來聊聊 Business Trip 這個主題！ 本集節目中，阿鍵老師分享了在中亞地區的出差經驗。從極度現代化的杜拜，到保有傳統文化的亞美尼亞，兩個截然不同的國家令人印象十分深刻。另外提到商務差旅，上網和資安需求也是不可或缺。阿鍵老師也說，要是當時能認識 NordVPN 這類工具就好了，它內建的加密功能和雲端空間能讓商務差旅過程更安心！ 聽完本集歡迎到FB/IG私訊或留言分享心得。別忘了，想要獲得更多精彩內容，歡迎訂閱我們的 VIP 會員，還能享有主題許願喔！ https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- 台北嘿掰講Episode 15 - Luxury toilet paper a hit in Taiwan 每週更新的播客，來聽聽Gavin跟John這禮拜討論台灣高級衛生紙 #Taipeibanter＃台北嘿掰講 In Taiwan, which variety of toilet paper currently sells the best? The answer may not be the one you were expecting. Household sanitary paper manufacturers have this year discovered that 3-ply toilet tissue has emerged as a force to be reckoned with within the market, with sales volumes jumping 20 percent. Toilet tissue impregnated with balsam and forest-friendly, recycled alternatives have all exhibited strong sales performance. The industry is speculating that Taiwan is gradually moving toward becoming an M-shaped society, as consumer purchasing power becomes more polarized. 在台灣，現在哪一種衛生紙最好賣？答案可能跌破不少人眼鏡。家用紙業者發現，今年以來價格較高的三層衛生紙異軍突起，銷售量大增二成；添加乳霜的衛生紙、不砍樹的再生紙衛生紙，也都有不錯的銷售成績。業者推測，應與台灣走向Ｍ型社會，消費力逐漸兩極化有關。 Household sanitary paper manufacturers have discovered that 3-ply loo paper is selling like hot cakes. For example, for US wholesaler Costco, in addition to its own-brand Kirkland toilet paper, other 3-ply offerings from Kleenex and established brand May Flower, have all been selling well. According to papermaking conglomerate YFY, although 2-ply toilet paper still constitutes the bulk of the market, sales volumes of 3-ply have been gradually increasing, with some lines becoming best-sellers. Papermakers are now rushing to ramp up production and supply of 3-ply. 家紙業者發現，「三層衛生紙超好賣」，以美式賣場好市多為例，除了自有品牌Kirkland外，目前銷售的舒潔以及先前銷售的五月花都相當受歡迎，這些都是「三層衛生紙」。永豐餘控股指出，雖然目前二層衛生紙仍是市場主流，但三層衛生紙的銷售額逐年成長，部分通路甚至是「三層衛生紙最好賣」，因此紙廠會儘可能將產能供應三層衛生紙。 According to YFY, in 2016 sales revenue for 3-ply toilet paper totalled NT$870 million but broke the NT$1billion mark last year: a year-on-year increase of nearly 19 percent and 16 percent market share. 永豐餘指出，二○一六年台灣市場三層衛生紙銷售金額僅八．七億元，二○一七年已突破十億元，年增近百分之十九，且在衛生紙產品的占比提升至百分之十六。 This year, YFY launched a premium 3-ply version of its flagship May Flower toilet paper to appeal to consumers who demand a superior quality feel and softness. Cheng Loong Corp, which markets a top-of-the-range 3-ply extra-thick, 50-percent-more-absorbent toilet paper under the Andante brand, has seen a 20 percent increase in sales of the product since the beginning of this year. 永豐餘今年就主打旗下「五月花」三層衛生紙，訴求高質感、柔軟的特性。正隆的「春風」三層衛生紙，則主打「三層厚手、吸水力提升百分之五十」，今年以來銷售量大增二成。 As for the cause of mushrooming sales of 3-ply toilet paper, the industry believes Taiwan’s consumer market is becoming “M-shaped.” Although many Taiwanese consumers still count every penny, consumers on the right lobe of the “M” curve attach a greater degree of importance to quality, the environment and functionality, and are willing to fork out more cash to buy products perceived to be of a higher quality. 對於三層衛生紙銷售成長的主因，業者認為，台灣的消費市場出現Ｍ型化趨勢，雖然有不少消費者仍對價格錙銖必較，但在Ｍ型右方的消費者更重視品質、環保、功能等，願意花較多的錢買品質更好的產品。 Taipei Banter, where John and Gavin talk about the interesting things around the world. Article referred in the podcast:http://www.taipeitimes.com/News/lang/archives/2018/09/04/2003699732

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- 最近的新聞充滿各種「演唱會」，從周杰倫、劉德華到十一月開搶的YOASOBI。這週的《英語咖啡館》John老師和 Angel 老師要來談各自參加演唱會的經驗，同時聊聊台灣的各個演出場地！ 從新落成的台北大巨蛋，到老字號的小巨蛋，還有在高雄的高雄國家體育場，你去過幾個呢？另外還有很多比較小規模的場地像是TICC, 比較新的北流或是Zepp New Taipei, 越來越多國際表演者前來台灣演出。你知道其中誰最讓我們難忘且回味嗎？ 來信跟我們分享你最難忘的演唱會與場地喔～

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- 國際時事跟讀VIP Ep.K879: Microsoft Transforms Copilot into a Digital Companion Highlights 主題摘要：Microsoft has updated Copilot to be more than a productivity tool, transforming it into an AI companion with a warmer personality that offers encouragement and advice alongside information.The new Copilot features advanced capabilities like voice interactions, image interpretation, and integration with Microsoft Edge, all designed with user privacy in mind.While Copilot represents a shift towards more personalized and emotionally intelligent AI assistants, balancing AI assistance with genuine human connections remains a crucial consideration. Microsoft has unveiled a major update to its AI chatbot, Copilot, aiming to create a more personalized and user-friendly experience. This redesign marks a significant step towards developing an "AI companion" that goes beyond being just a productivity tool. The update comes at a time when many people still struggle to trust AI tools and haven't fully integrated them into their daily lives. 微軟最近公布了其 AI 聊天機器人 Copilot 的重大更新，旨在創造更個人化、更友善的使用體驗。這次的重新設計標誌著朝向開發「人工智慧伴侶」的重要一步，超越了單純的生產力工具。這項更新恰逢許多人仍在努力信任 AI 工具，尚未將其完全融入日常生活之際。 The new Copilot comes with enhanced capabilities, including real-time voice interactions and the ability to interpret images and text on users' screens. Microsoft claims it's one of the fastest AI models available. However, the most notable innovation is the chatbot's new personality. Copilot now interacts with users in a warmer tone, offering not only information but also encouragement, feedback, and advice for everyday challenges. This approach helps Copilot stand out in the growing field of general-purpose AI chatbots. 新版 Copilot 具備更強的功能，包括即時語音互動以及解讀使用者螢幕上圖像和文字的能力。微軟聲稱這是市面上最快速的人工智慧模型之一。然而，最引人注目的創新是聊天機器人的全新個性。Copilot 現在以更溫暖的語調與使用者互動，不僅提供資訊，還能在日常生活的挑戰中給予鼓勵、回饋和建議。這種方法幫助 Copilot 在日益增長的通用 AI 聊天機器人領域中脫穎而出。 These changes reflect Microsoft's vision for the future of AI in people's daily lives. Mustafa Suleyman, Microsoft AI CEO, believes that AI will become more than just a tool; it will be a digital friend that users turn to for various tasks and support. The company has invested in developing Copilot's personality, employing a team of creative directors, language specialists, and psychologists to refine the AI's conversational abilities. This effort aims to create a balance between making Copilot feel familiar and friendly while still maintaining appropriate boundaries. 這些變化反映了微軟對 AI 在人們日常生活中的未來願景。微軟人工智慧執行長 Mustafa Suleyman 認為， AI 將不僅僅是一個工具，它將成為一個數位朋友，使用者可以向它尋求各種任務和支持。公司投入資源開發 Copilot 的個性，聘請了一個由創意總監、語言專家和心理學家組成的團隊來精進 AI 的對話能力。這項努力希望在讓 Copilot 感覺親切友好的同時，仍保持適當的界限之間取得平衡。 The updated Copilot introduces several new features. Users can now have voice conversations with the AI, choosing from four different voice options designed to sound natural without imitating specific individuals. A "daily" feature provides weather and news updates, sourced from partnerships with reputable news outlets. Integration with Microsoft Edge allows for quick access to Copilot's assistance directly from the browser's address bar. For more adventurous users, "Copilot Labs" offers experimental features like "Think Deeper" for complex reasoning and "Copilot Vision" for visual analysis. Microsoft emphasizes that these new capabilities, especially those involving screen viewing, are designed with user privacy in mind. All Copilot Vision sessions are opt-in, and the content it sees is not stored or used for training. 更新後的 Copilot 引入了幾項新功能。使用者現在可以與 AI 進行語音對話，從四種不同的語音選項中選擇，這些語音選項設計得自然，而不模仿特定個人。「每日」功能提供天氣和新聞更新，這些資訊來自與知名新聞媒體的合作。與微軟 Edge 瀏覽器的整合允許直接從瀏覽器的網址列快速存取 Copilot 的協助。對於更愛冒險的使用者，「Copilot Labs」提供實驗性功能，如用於複雜推理的「Think Deeper」和用於視覺分析的「Copilot Vision」。微軟強調，這些新功能，特別是那些涉及螢幕查看的功能，設計時考慮到了使用者隱私。所有 Copilot Vision 行程都是自訂加入，並且看到的內容不會被儲存或用於訓練。 As AI technology continues to evolve, Microsoft's approach with Copilot showcases a shift towards creating more personalized and emotionally intelligent AI assistants. The company's focus on developing an AI companion that can provide both practical help and emotional support signals a new direction in how we might interact with AI in the future. 隨著 AI 技術持續發展，微軟對 Copilot 的做法展示了朝向創造更個人化、情感智能 AI 助理的轉變。公司專注於開發能夠提供實際幫助和情感支援的人工智慧伴侶，這也預示著我們未來與 AI 互動方式的新方向。 Keyword Drills 關鍵字：Companion (Com-pan-ion): Microsoft Transforms Copilot into a Digital CompanionInterpret (In-ter-pret): The new Copilot

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- Topic: Newspapers in New York, Like Their Readers, Are Vanishing Kenny Hospot is in some ways a typical reader of The Daily News. He’s a construction worker from Queens who’s lived in the city most of his life. He always liked reading the comics and the horoscope in The News. 就某些方面而言，肯尼．霍斯帕堪稱每日新聞報的典型讀者。他是紐約市皇后區的一個建築工人，這一生大多數時間都住在這個城市。他一向愛看該報的漫畫和星座運勢。 How long since he last bought a copy of the paper? Hospot laughed. “I would say like 15 years.” 他上一次買這份報紙是多久之前？霍斯帕笑了，「我看大概有15年了吧。」 Kamel Brown is another archetypal customer for New York’s Hometown Newspaper, as The Daily News styles itself. He’s a maintenance worker for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority. He’s 55 years old. He grew up buying the paper for his grandmother in Brooklyn. “When she was finished reading it, I’d pick it up, flip back and start with the sports,” Brown said. 對於自我定位為紐約家鄉報紙的每日新聞報，凱默．布朗是另一種典型讀者。他是都市交通局的維修工人，55歲。他在布魯克林區的成長過程中，常幫祖母買這份報紙。布朗說：「她看完後，我會拿過來，翻回去，從運動版開始看。」 He doesn’t remember the last time he bought it. When he paged through a copy at a friend’s home this past week, he was unimpressed. 他不記得上次買這份報紙是何時。過去這一周的某日他在友人家翻閱一分報紙時，很無感。 Tristan Dominguez, on the other hand, is still a big Daily News fan. “It’s the only place you see anything local,” Dominguez said at a bodega in Washington Heights, where a stack of papers sat behind the counter. 另一方面，崔斯坦．多明奎茲仍是新聞報的大粉絲。「這是你唯一能看到在地新聞的地方。」多明奎茲在華盛頓高地的一家雜貨店內說，櫃檯後方有一大疊報紙。 He reads the paper mostly online and through Twitter. 他大多數是上網或透過推特看這份報紙。 All of this helps explain why there was an air of inevitability about the news Monday that the organization was laying off half its editorial staff. 這些例子亦可說明，當這家報社決定資遣編輯部一半員工的消息周一（7月23日）傳出時，為何外界會覺得此事似難避免。 Once upon a time, The Daily News sold more than 2 million papers a day. Now its circulation is only about a tenth of that, and the paper’s non-hometown owner, the Chicago-based media company Tronc, which bought the paper in 2017, does not have the patience for non-profitability that the prior owner, Mort Zuckerman, did. 每日新聞報曾經一天賣出200萬分以上，現在發行量大約只剩十分之一。這家報社的非在地老闆、芝加哥的媒體公司Tronc，2017年買下每日新聞報，對於它未能獲利，並沒有前任老闆莫特．札克曼那般的耐性。 At a cultural moment when the very idea of New York City as a hometown is quickly dissolving, and when most people get their news from some sort of glowing screen, the thirst for local ink is not what it used to be. 在當下這個文化時刻，將紐約市當作家鄉的想法正在快速瓦解，而且大多數人是從某種閃爍的螢幕獲得新聞，對於在地新聞文字報導的渴求已不如以往。 And those who do crave hard-hitting coverage that holds officials accountable for the state of the city were not pleased to hear about the layoffs. 對於那些渴望看到逼官員為城市現況負起責任的強烈抨擊報導的人，聽到前述資遣消息並非樂事。 “You need those old-school people because they know what they’re doing,” Rosanne Nunziata, a manager at the New Apollo Diner in downtown Brooklyn, said of The Daily News’ staff of veteran shoe-leather reporters, many of whom are now pounding the pavement in search of employment. “They know how to sneak in and get their stories, and know how to get witnesses to talk and do their thing.” 布魯克林鬧區「新阿波羅餐館」經理羅珊娜．努齊亞塔說：「你需要這些老派人士，因為他們知道自己在做什麼。」她指的是新聞報本分且資深的記者，這些人中有不少正在路上奔走著找工作。「他們知道如何潛入並取得新聞，也知道如何讓目擊者開口，做好他們的工作。」 The New York Post, The Daily News’ longtime rival for tabloid dominance, has seen its circulation plummet, too. Rupert Murdoch, whose News Corp. owns The Post, has long tolerated the paper’s unprofitability, but there may come a time when his successors have far less stomach for red ink. 每日新聞報的長期對手，爭奪八卦小報霸主地位的紐約郵報，發行量也持續大跌。擁有紐約郵報的新聞集團老闆魯柏．梅鐸，長期容忍這家報紙未能獲利。但是也許有一天，他的接班人對赤字的容忍度會小得多。 Source article: https://paper.udn.com/udnpaper/POH0067/330084/web/ Next Article Topic: Dumplings tempt New Yorkers with pizza, peanut butter flavors - and no human contact New Yorkers can now get their dumpling fix from an automat with no human contact, and the adventurous can order flavors ranging from pepperoni pizza to peanut butter and jelly. 紐約客現在可由一套不需要與人接觸的自動販賣機為他們料理餃子，喜歡嘗試新鮮的人可從義式臘腸披薩到花生醬、果醬等口味中選購。 While the Brooklyn Dumpling Shop in the city’s East Village offers traditional pork and chicken bite-sized treats, chicken parm or Philly cheesesteak are also on the menu. 位於這座城市東村的布魯克林餃子店，提供一口大小的傳統豬肉、雞肉餡點心，菜單上也有焗烤雞肉，或是費城牛肉起司三明治。 Spurred by the pandemic and technology advances, the Brooklyn Dumpling Shop is delivering food via automat 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 在這場疫情以及科技進步的帶動下，布魯克林餃子店正透過自動販賣機，全年無休24小時出餐。 "Embrace technology, because technology is something that has to be embraced by hospi

【本集節目由Speak 贊助播出】  Speak AI 英文口說 App 新註冊會員還有七天免費試用 ：https://bit.ly/15MinsToday 你是不是常常想練英文口說，卻找不到人陪你聊天，或是不知道怎麼有效練習？ 跟大家分享一個能讓你練習開口說英文的APP， Speak AI 英文口說 App！ Speak從真人影音課程、口說練習功能到 AI 對話，主打 Speak Method (Speak 學習法)，從吸收、練習到應用，有效讓用戶從輸入到輸出練習英文口說，是真的有意識學習，而不只是聊天。就像有位私人家教在身邊指導。 Speak，助你更有自信開口說英文！ ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- 歡迎回到《Teacher's Lounge 幕後教師室》這幾天受到強烈颱風影響，希望各位聽眾朋友都平安無事。我們也很感謝在風雨中依然陪伴著我們的你！ 本集節目中，John老師和阿鍵跟大家分享了一些令人驚喜的數據：如果你這一年來持續收聽我們的節目，相當於上了整整100小時的英語課程，或是讀完3-4本哈利波特囉 說到這裡，我們也想跟大家分享一個好消息：通勤學英語的訂閱制即將邁入第二年了！在新的一年裡，我們會持續為大家帶來更多有趣且實用的英語加值內容，繼續陪伴大家的英語學習之路。 聽完本集歡迎到FB/IG私訊或留言分享心得。別忘了，想要獲得更多精彩內容，歡迎訂閱我們的 VIP 會員，還能享有主題許願的特權喔： https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- 1. Netflix / Amazon Prime 網飛與雅馬遜串流服務 2. feeble adj. - 不驚艷 3. skeptical adj. -帶有疑慮 4. 7-day trial - 七天鑑賞 5. content n . - 內容 6. Chinese subtitles - 中文字幕 7. prime channel - 主要的頻道 8. The Grand Tour: 9. sth is/isn't worth it - sth值得/不值得 10. stream v. - 串流 11. device n. - 裝置 12. stand-up comedy - 單人脫口秀(單人相聲) 13. Louis C.K. 14. resonate v. - 共鳴 15. perspective n. - 觀點 16. subscribe v. - 訂閱 17. follow v. - 追蹤 18. cable TV - 第四台

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- 想要這集的VIP學習筆記 (內含主題討論逐字稿、常用慣用語片語及同義字、聽力小測驗)？ 更多的加值內容成為VIP會員：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday This week Lydia is going to fill us in on the latest trends in UI and UX in 2025. A lot is happening in the tech space lately, especially with AI. However, outside AI, the user-centric design space is also moving forward at a rapid pace. This year we've seen the latest in AR/VR as well as accessibility features. Out of the five trends that Lydia is going to share with us in this episode, what other trends are you seeing? Send in your observations and we will give you a shout out in the next episode! Hope you will enjoy this episode with us as much as we enjoyed producing it! 更多15Mins Cafe節目: www.15mins.today/15mins-cafe 歡迎主題投稿/意見回覆 : [email protected] 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected]

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- 國際時事跟讀 Ep.K875: South Korea Takes Bold Step to Revive Economy with Interest Rate Cut Highlights 主題摘要：The Bank of Korea has cut its key interest rate to 3.25%, marking the first reduction in over four years, in an effort to stimulate South Korea's sluggish economy.The decision was influenced by slow domestic demand recovery, stabilizing inflation, and a cooling housing market, but the BOK remains cautious about further rate cuts.While aiming to boost economic growth, the BOK is balancing stimulation with financial stability concerns, particularly regarding household debt, and will continue monitoring market conditions closely. South Korea's central bank, the Bank of Korea (BOK), has made a significant move to stimulate the country's sluggish economy. The BOK cut its key interest rate by 0.25 percentage points, bringing it down to 3.25%. This marks the first rate reduction in over four years, signaling a shift in the bank's monetary policy. The decision comes after a long period of rate increases, which began in August 2021 and saw the rate climb to a 15-year high of 3.5% in January 2023. 南韓中央銀行──韓國銀行（Bank of Korea，BOK）採取重大行動以刺激該國疲軟的經濟。韓國銀行將其關鍵利率下調 0.25 個百分點，降至 3.25％。這是四年多以來的首次降息，顯示著該行貨幣政策的轉變。此決定是在長期升息後做出的，升息始於 2021 年 8 月，並在 2023 年 1 月將利率推升至 15 年來的最高水平 3.5％。 The decision to lower interest rates comes as South Korea faces mounting economic challenges. The BOK cited a slow recovery in domestic demand and a sluggish pace of economic growth as primary reasons for the rate cut. Additionally, the bank noted that inflation has shown signs of stabilizing, with the consumer price inflation easing to 1.6% in September, below the policy target of 2%. This economic environment provided room for the central bank to take action without risking excessive inflation. The cooling housing market in the greater Seoul area also contributed to the decision, as it has led to a slower increase in household debt. 降息決定是在南韓面臨日益嚴峻的經濟挑戰之際做出的。韓國銀行援引國內需求復甦緩慢和經濟增長步伐遲緩作為降息的主要原因。此外，該行指出通貨膨脹已呈現穩定跡象，9 月份消費者物價通膨率降至 1.6％，低於 2％ 的政策目標。這種經濟環境為中央銀行採取行動提供了空間，而不會冒過度通膨的風險。首爾大都會區房地產市場降溫也促成了這一決定，因為它導致家庭債務增長放緩。 Despite the rate cut, the BOK remains cautious about further reductions. Governor Rhee Chang-yong described the move as a "hawkish cut," indicating that the bank still favors relatively tight monetary conditions. The central bank is keeping a close eye on various factors, including the recovery of domestic demand, economic conditions in major countries, and trends in information-technology exports. The ongoing crisis in the Middle East also poses potential risks to fuel prices, exchange rates, and public utility costs, which could impact the country's economic outlook. These uncertainties underscore the need for careful monitoring and potential adjustments to monetary policy in the future. 儘管降息，但韓國銀行對進一步降息仍持謹慎態度。行長李昌鏞（Rhee Chang-yong）將此舉描述為「鷹派式降息」，表明該行仍傾向於相對緊縮的貨幣條件。中央銀行正密切關注各種因素，包括國內需求的復甦、主要國家的經濟狀況以及資訊科技出口的趨勢。中東地區持續的危機也對燃料價格、匯率和公用事業價格構成潛在風險，可能影響該國的經濟前景。這些不確定因素凸顯了未來需要謹慎監測並可能調整貨幣政策的必要性。 The rate cut is expected to have far-reaching effects on South Korea's economy. It aims to encourage borrowing and spending, potentially boosting economic growth. However, the BOK remains vigilant about the potential risks associated with household debt, which has been a concern in recent years. The bank projects South Korea's economy to grow at 2.4% this year, down from 2.6% in 2023. As the country navigates these economic challenges, the central bank's decision reflects a delicate balance between stimulating growth and maintaining financial stability. The move has been welcomed by government officials, including Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok, who sees it as a positive step towards revitalizing the economy. However, the BOK has indicated that it will continue to monitor the situation closely and make decisions based on the stability of financial markets, suggesting a cautious approach to future rate adjustments. 預計降息將對南韓經濟產生深遠影響。它旨在鼓勵借貸和支出，可能會促進經濟增長。然而，韓國銀行對家庭債務相關的潛在風險保持警惕，這在近年來一直是一個令人擔憂的問題。該行預測南韓經濟今年將增長 2.4％，低於 2023 年的 2.6％。隨著該國應對這些經濟挑戰，中央銀行的決定反映了在刺激增長與維持金融穩定之間的微妙平衡。政府官員對此舉表示歡迎，包括財政部長崔尚穆（Choi Sang-mok），他認為這是振興經濟的積極一步。然而，韓國銀行表示將繼續密切監測局勢，並根據金融市場的穩定性做出決策，這暗示著未來利率調整將採取謹慎行動。 Keyword Drills 關鍵字：Sluggish (Slug-gish): The decision to lower interest rates comes as South Korea faces mounting economic challenges. The BOK cited a slow recovery in domestic demand and a sluggish pace

【本集節目由Speak 贊助播出】  Speak AI 英文口說 App 新註冊會員還有七天免費試用 ：https://bit.ly/15MinsToday 你是不是常常想練英文口說，卻找不到人陪你聊天，或是不知道怎麼有效練習？ 跟大家分享一個能讓你練習開口說英文的APP， Speak AI 英文口說 App！ Speak從真人影音課程、口說練習功能到 AI 對話，主打 Speak Method (Speak 學習法)，從吸收、練習到應用，有效讓用戶從輸入到輸出練習英文口說，是真的有意識學習，而不只是聊天。就像有位私人家教在身邊指導。 Speak，助你更有自信開口說英文！ ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- Topic: In Race for Tuition-Free College, New Mexico Stakes a Claim As universities across the United States face steep enrollment declines, New Mexico’s government is embarking on a pioneering experiment to fight that trend: tuition-free higher education for all state residents. 隨著美國各地大學入學人數急劇下滑，新墨西哥州政府正著手進行一項開創性實驗來應對這一趨勢：為全州居民提供免學費高等教育。 After President Joe Biden’s plan for universal free community college failed to gain traction in Congress, New Mexico, one of the nation’s poorest states, has emerged with perhaps the most ambitious plans as states scramble to come up with their own initiatives. 在美國總統拜登的全民免費社區大學計畫未能獲得國會支持後，美國最窮的州之一新墨西哥州提出的計畫，可能是各州爭相提出行動倡議中最具雄心的一個。 A new state law approved in a rare show of bipartisanship allocates almost 1% of the state’s budget toward covering tuition and fees at public colleges and universities, community colleges and tribal colleges. All state residents from new high school graduates to adults enrolling part-time will be eligible regardless of family income. The program is also open to immigrants regardless of their immigration status. 一項新的州法在兩黨罕見合作下通過，將州預算的1%用於支付公立大學、社區大學與部落學院的學費。所有州民，從剛畢業的高中生到參加兼職教育的成人都有資格參加，無論家庭收入。該計畫也向移民開放，無論他們的移民身分如何。 Some legislators and other critics question whether there should have been income caps and whether the state, newly flush with oil and gas revenue, can secure long-term funding to support the program beyond its first year. The legislation, which seeks to treat college as a public resource similar to primary and secondary education, takes effect in July. 一些議員和其他批評人士質疑是否應設所得限制，以及剛獲大量石油與天然氣收入的該州是否能在計畫實施第一年後，獲得長期資金支持。這項立法將於7月生效，旨在將大學視為與中小學教育類似的公共資源。 Although nearly half the states have embraced similar initiatives that seek to cover at least some tuition expenses for some students, New Mexico’s law goes further by covering tuition and fees before other scholarships and sources of financial aid are applied, enabling students to use those other funds for expenses such as lodging, food or child care. 儘管近半的州已採取類似舉措，想幫一些學生支付至少部分學費和雜費，新墨西哥州法律更進一步，在申請其他獎學金和學費補助前，先支付學雜費，讓學生能使用其他資金，支付如住宿、食物或兒童照顧等費用。 “The New Mexico program is very close to ideal,” said Michael Dannenberg, vice president of strategic initiatives and higher education policy at the nonprofit advocacy group Education Reform Now. Considering the state’s income levels and available resources, he added that New Mexico’s program is among the most generous in the country. 非營利倡議組織Education Reform Now策略倡議暨高教政策副總裁丹能貝格說：「新墨西哥的計畫非常貼近理想。」他表示，考量收入水準與可用資源，新墨西哥州的計畫是全美最慷慨的。 Dannenberg emphasized that New Mexico is going beyond what larger, more prosperous states like Washington and Tennessee have already done. Programs in other states often limit tuition assistance to community colleges, exclude some residents because of family income or impose conditions requiring students to work part time. 丹能貝格強調，新墨西哥州正超越華盛頓和田納西這些更大、更繁榮的州所做的事。其他州通常限制對社區大學的學費補助，因家庭收入排除一些州民，或要求學生兼職。Source article: https://udn.com/news/story/6904/6329103 Next Article Topic: Colleges Slash Budgets in the Pandemic,With ‘Nothing Off-Limits’ Ohio Wesleyan University is eliminating 18 majors. The University of Florida’s trustees last month took the first steps toward letting the school furlough faculty. The University of California, Berkeley, has paused admissions to its doctoral programs in anthropology, sociology and art history. 美國俄亥俄衛斯理大學取消了18個科系。佛州大學董事會9月採取初步措施，目標是讓校方有權放教師無薪假。柏克萊加州大學則暫停招收人類學、社會學和藝術史的博士班學生。 As it resurges across the country, the coronavirus is forcing universities large and small to make deep and possibly lasting cuts to close widening budget shortfalls. By one estimate, the pandemic has cost colleges at least $120 billion, with even Harvard University, despite its $41.9 billion endowment, reporting a $10 million deficit that has prompted belt tightening. 由於全美各地新冠肺炎疫情再度惡化，美國各大學不論規模大小，都被迫大砍支出，以彌補逐漸擴大的預算缺口，刪減的支出可能長期都不會恢復。有人估計，疫情至少使美國各大學合計損失1200億美元，就連坐擁419億美元辦學基金的哈佛大學也出現1000萬美元預算赤字，被迫勒緊褲帶。 The persistence of the economic downturn is taking a devastating financial toll, pushing many to lay off or furlough employees, delay graduate admis

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- 歡迎收聽這週《Teacher's Lounge 幕後教師室》！本週 John 老師和阿鍵老師要跟大家分享一下，在我們發送VIP會員週年慶的線上聚會活動時所收到的留言與回覆。我們VIP家族們真的很可愛，也很有愛，讓我們老師們真的都很感動與被激勵到。 這次幕後教師室裡又透露了一些John老師南非生活的點滴，上次分享了一些後有家族們來敲碗。如果你也喜歡聽聽一些國外生活的趣事，歡迎繼續敲碗嚕～ 聽完本集歡迎到FB/IG私訊或留言分享心得。別忘了，想要獲得更多精彩內容，歡迎訂閱我們的 VIP 會員，還能享有主題許願的特權喔！​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- 1. Binge shopping - 瘋狂購物 2. Availability / Unavailability - 可取得性/非可取得性 3. Shipping - 運送 4. being big on sth - 非常喜好 sth 5. Pay upfront - 先付錢 6. Pay on delivery - 貨到付款 7. Buyer rating - 買家評定 8. International couriers - 國際貨運公司 9. Convenience stores - 便利商店 10. Capsules - 膠囊 (Nespresso 膠囊咖啡) 11. Credit card - 信用卡 12. Seller's rating - 賣家評定 13. Legitimate seller/company - 合法/合規則的賣家 14. Browse (v.) - 遊覽

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- This week Klim will update us on the latest announcement of the Michelin Guide in Taiwan. This year the most number of stars were awards in the whole guide for Taiwan, and that means it's going to be more and more difficult to book restaurants and eateries. That's not all, average joes like me always gets confused about with Bidebndum or Bib Gourmand is. Klim will also shed some light on this for us. Which Bib Gourmand or Michelin starred restaurant do you often eat at? Share your experience with us and we will give you a shout out in the next episode! Hope you will enjoy this episode with us as much as we enjoyed producing it! 更多15Mins Cafe節目: www.15mins.today/15mins-cafe 歡迎主題投稿/意見回覆 : [email protected] 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected]

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- 國際時事跟讀VIP Ep.K871: Rafael Nadal's Retirement: The End of a Tennis Era Highlights 主題摘要：Rafael Nadal, one of tennis's greatest players, has announced his retirement due to persistent injuries, marking the end of an era after nearly two decades of dominance.Nadal's extraordinary career includes 22 Grand Slam titles and 14 French Open victories, showcasing his unparalleled skill, work ethic, and sportsmanship both on and off the court.Nadal's retirement, following Federer's, leaves Djokovic as the last of the "Big Three", signaling the conclusion of men's tennis's golden era and prompting tributes from players and fans worldwide. Rafael Nadal, one of the greatest tennis players of all time, has announced his retirement from professional tennis. This news marks the end of an era in the sport, as Nadal has been a dominant force for nearly two decades. The Spanish champion's decision comes after a series of injuries that have limited his ability to compete at the highest level. 納達爾（Rafael Nadal），這位史上最偉大的網球選手之一，已宣布從職業網壇退役。這個消息標誌著這項運動一個時代的終結，因為納達爾近二十年來一直是網壇的主宰力量。這位西班牙冠軍的決定，是在一連串傷病限制了他在最高水平競技的能力之後做出的。 Nadal's career has been nothing short of extraordinary. With 22 Grand Slam titles, including an incredible 14 French Open victories, he has left an indelible mark on tennis history. His uncle and former coach, Toni Nadal, revealed that Rafa had hoped to play for one more season, particularly on his favorite clay courts. However, persistent injuries have forced the Spanish champion to end his career earlier than he might have wished. Toni Nadal told Marca, "Rafa would have liked another good season on clay and that means winning or at least performing at a good level." 納達爾的職業生涯可謂非凡卓越。他贏得了 22 座大滿貫冠軍，其中包括驚人的 14 次法國公開賽勝利，在網球史上留下了不可磨滅的印記。他的叔叔兼前教練托尼・納達爾透露，拉斐爾本希望再打一個賽季，特別是在他最愛的紅土球場上。然而，持續的傷病迫使這位西班牙冠軍比他可能希望的更早結束職業生涯。托尼・納達爾告訴《馬卡報》，「拉斐爾本想在紅土上再有一個好賽季，這意味著贏得比賽或至少表現得很好。」 Throughout his career, Nadal has been known for his incredible work ethic, fighting spirit, and sportsmanship. He has been a role model both on and off the court, earning respect from fans, fellow players, and coaches alike. His rivalries with Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic have produced some of the most memorable matches in tennis history, pushing the sport to new heights of popularity and excellence. Nadal's unique playing style, characterized by his powerful topspin forehand and exceptional court coverage, has made him virtually unbeatable on clay and formidable on all surfaces. 納達爾的整個職業生涯以其驚人的職業道德、鬥志和體育精神而聞名。他在場內場外都是人們的榜樣，贏得了球迷、同行和教練的尊重。他與費德勒（Roger Federer）和喬科維奇（Novak Djokovic）的競爭產生了一些網球史上最難忘的比賽，將這項運動推向熱門程度和卓越性的新高峰。納達爾獨特的打法，以其強大的上旋正手和出色的場上覆蓋率為特點，使他在紅土上幾乎無人能敵，在所有場地上都令人生畏。 Nadal's retirement draws a line under what many consider to be the golden era of men's tennis. His departure, following Federer's retirement two years ago, leaves Djokovic as the last remaining member of the "Big Three". While new stars like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner are emerging, Nadal's absence will be deeply felt in the tennis world. As Nadal prepares for his final appearance at the Davis Cup Finals in November, fans around the globe are preparing to bid farewell to one of the sport's true legends. His retirement has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fellow players and fans alike. Roger Federer wrote on Instagram, "What a career, Rafa! I always hoped this day would never come." These sentiments echo the feelings of tennis fans worldwide as they prepare to say goodbye to a player who has given his all to the sport until he simply couldn't anymore. 納達爾的退役為許多人認為是男子網球的黃金時代畫上了句號。繼費德勒兩年前退役之後，他的離去使得喬科維奇成為「三巨頭」中最後一位在役的成員。雖然像卡洛斯・艾卡拉茲（Carlos Alcaraz）和揚尼克・辛納（Jannik Sinner）這樣的新星正在崛起，但納達爾的缺席將令網球界感受強烈。目前納達爾準備在十一月的台維斯盃決賽中最後一次亮相時，全球球迷正準備向這位體壇真正的傳奇告別。他的退役引發了同行和球迷的大量致敬。費德勒在 Instagram 上寫道：「多麼輝煌的職業生涯啊，拉斐爾！我一直希望這一天永遠不會到來。」這些感言呼應了全世界網球迷的心聲，他們正準備向一位全身心投入這項運動直到再也無法繼續的選手道別。 Keyword Drills 關鍵字：Retirement (Re-tire-ment): Rafael Nadal, one of the greatest tennis players of all time, has announced his retirement from professional tennis.Persistent (Per-sist-ent): However, persistent injuries have forced the Spanish champion to end his career earlier than he might have wished.Unbeatable (Un-beat-a-ble): Nadal's unique playing style, characterized by his powerful topspin forehand and exceptional court coverage, has made him virtually unbeatable on clay and formidable on all surfaces.Formidable (For-mi-da-ble): N

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- Topic: Water-Stressed India Seeks a Tap for Every Home The pipes are laid, the taps installed and the village tank is under construction — all promising signs that, come spring, Girja Ahriwar will get water at her doorstep and finally shed a lifelong burden. 管子鋪好，水龍頭裝好，村子的水槽正在建造。這些充滿希望的跡象顯示，春季來臨時，吉爾嘉．艾里瓦可以在家門口取到水，而且終於解除長期以來的負擔。 “I go out and put the jerrycans in the queue at around 5 a.m. and wait there with the children,” Ahriwar, a mother of three who lives in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, said about her routine of fetching from the village hand pump. “Sometimes it could take five or six hours. I have to stay there because if I leave, someone else moves ahead.” 「我大約在清晨5時出門，把大水桶排進隊伍，然後和孩子們一起等待」，住在印度中部中央邦、三個孩子的媽艾里瓦說，她的例行公事就是從村子的手動泵浦取水，「有時候得花五或六個小時，我必須一直留在這裡，因為如果我離開了，其他人就會搶先往前」。 India, one of the world’s most water-stressed countries, is halfway through an ambitious drive to provide clean tap water by 2024 to all of the roughly 192 million households across its 600,000 villages. About 18,000 government engineers are overseeing the $50 billion undertaking, which includes hundreds of thousands of contractors and laborers who are laying more than 2.5 million miles of pipe. 印度是全世界用水最吃緊的國家之一，在2024年之前提供60萬個村落共約1億9200萬戶乾淨自來水，這項宏大的計畫已進行到一半。約1萬8000名政府工程師監督規模500億美元的工程，包括數十萬名包商和工人，鋪設超過250萬哩的水管。 The project has a powerful champion in Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has slashed through India’s notorious red tape and pushed aside thorny political divisions to see it through. His success thus far helps explain his dominance over the country’s political landscape. 這項計畫有個有力的擁護者：總理莫迪，他打破印度惡名昭彰的官僚作風，把棘手的政治分歧暫放一邊，推動計畫。目前為止他的成功也顯示他在這個國家政治版圖的主導力。 Modi has remained popular despite a weak economy and a bungled initial response to the coronavirus that left hundreds of thousands dead. He has increasingly relied on communal politics, continuing to consolidate a Hindu nationalist base he has worked for decades to rally. 即使經濟疲弱，且一開始對新冠病毒的笨拙反應造成數十萬人死亡，莫迪仍舊廣得人心。他日漸依賴宗教團體式政治，持續鞏固印度教國族主義基本盤，他投注數十年整合這些勢力。 But the mission to deliver water to every household combines two of Modi’s political strengths: his grasp of the day-to-day problems of hundreds of millions of India’s poor and his penchant for ambitious solutions. Modi, who grew up in a poor village, has spoken emotionally about his own mother’s hardship in fetching water. 不過，將水送到所有家戶的任務，結合莫迪的兩個政治力量：他對印度數億貧窮人口日常問題的理解，以及喜好採取極具雄心的解決方案。在貧窮村莊長大的莫迪，曾充滿感情的談到母親以前取水的困難。 About one-sixth of India’s households had a clean water tap when the program, called Jal Jeevan Mission, began in 2019. Now, almost half have one. 當這個「水生活任務」2019年開始時，印度家戶有潔淨自來水者約六分之一。現在，幾乎一半。 “You rarely have this drive from the government, the head of state, and it is well funded. Behind the concept, there is budget,” said Nicolas Osbert, who leads the UNICEF water and sanitation unit in India. “All social sectors were impacted by COVID. Not this one. This one was preserved.” 「你很少能從政府或國家領袖獲得這種推動力，而且資金充裕。在這個概念後面，重點是預算」，聯合國兒童基金會印度分部水資源和衛生主管歐斯柏特說，「所有社福單位都遭遇新冠病毒衝擊，但這個沒有，這個計畫保留下來」。 The country’s water problem speaks to the mismatch between its global economic ambitions and the dire conditions of much of its 1.4 billion population, two-thirds of whom still live in rural areas. 這個國家的用水問題顯示，其全球經濟野心和14億人口中許多人的悲慘情況，頗不相配。印度人口三分之二住在鄉村地區。Source article: https://udn.com/news/story/6904/6034821 Next Article Topic: Typhoonless year brings water shortage in fall/winter Most years, Taiwan is hit by typhoons during the summer and fall, but we have yet to see a typhoon this year. This unusual situation has put pressure on water supply levels in reservoirs around Taiwan. 台灣每年夏、秋兩季颱風頻繁，但詭異的是，今年截至目前為止，竟無任何一個颱風登陸台灣，造成水庫缺水問題。 Due to global warming, the typhoons generated in the Pacific Ocean this year have all moved northward, bypassing Taiwan. Although successive fronts and afternoon showers have brought rainfall, it was only fragmented, covering limited areas and did little to replenish reservoirs. As a result, the reservoir storage this year is lower than in previous years. 這是因為全球暖化之影響，今年大平洋生成的颱風往北移，導致沒有任何一個颱風進來台灣，雖然陸續有鋒面及午後陣雨帶來雨量，但下雨範圍多為局部地區，導致水庫蓄水量較往年低。 According to the Water Resource Agency, as of 2pm yesterday, the Shihmen Reservoir’s water storage was 44 percent of capacity, the Feicuei Reservoir’s was 62.3 percent and the Zengwen Reservoir’s was 31.3 percent. Two of the three major water reservoirs have less than 50 percent of their w

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- 1.Ella Fitzgerald (Jazz) Quote: "It isn't where you came from, it's where you're going that counts." Ella Fitzgerald, known as the "First Lady of Song" and "Queen of Jazz," was born in 1917 in Newport News, Virginia. Her career spanned nearly six decades, during which she won 13 Grammy Awards and sold over 40 million albums. Fitzgerald was known for her purity of tone, impeccable diction, and "scat" singing ability. She rose to fame despite a challenging childhood, including a period of homelessness. In 1934, she won an amateur contest at the Apollo Theater, which launched her singing career. Fitzgerald broke racial barriers, becoming the first African American woman to win a Grammy in 1958. She collaborated with many jazz greats, including Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington. Despite her fame, Fitzgerald remained humble, often suffering from stage fright before performances. Her ability to sing in multiple languages made her an international star, and she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1992. Ella Fitzgerald's resilience, talent, and dedication to her craft continue to inspire musicians and music lovers worldwide. 艾拉·費茲傑拉（爵士樂） 名言：「重要的不是你從哪裡來，而是你要去哪裡。」 艾拉·費茲傑拉，被尊稱為「歌壇第一夫人」和「爵士樂女王」，1917年出生於美國維吉尼亞州紐波特紐斯。她的演藝生涯橫跨近六十年，贏得13座葛萊美獎，專輯銷量超過四千萬張。費茲傑拉以音色純淨、咬字清晰，以及「口技爵士」聞名。儘管童年坎坷，甚至曾無家可歸，她仍然成功嶄露頭角。1934年，她在阿波羅劇院的業餘比賽中獲勝，由此開啟了她的歌唱事業。費茲傑拉打破種族藩籬，1958年成為首位獲得葛萊美獎的非裔美國女性。她與路易斯·阿姆斯壯、杜克·艾靈頓等爵士樂大師合作無間。儘管聲名顯赫，費茲傑拉始終保持謙遜，演出前常感到怯場。她能以多種語言演唱，成為國際巨星，並於1992年獲頒美國總統自由勳章。艾拉·費茲傑拉的堅韌、才華和對音樂的執著，至今仍啟發著世界各地的音樂人和樂迷。 2.Ray Charles (R&B) Quote: "I was born with music inside me. Music was one of my parts. Like my ribs, my kidneys, my liver, my heart. Like my blood. It was a force already within me when I arrived on the scene. It was a necessity for me – like food or water." Ray Charles, often called "The Genius," was born in 1930 in Albany, Georgia. He lost his sight completely by the age of seven due to glaucoma, but this didn't stop him from becoming one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. Charles pioneered the genre of soul music in the 1950s by combining rhythm and blues, gospel, and jazz. He learned to read, write, and arrange music in Braille, which allowed him to compose his own songs. Charles was one of the first African American musicians to be given artistic control by a mainstream record company. He won 17 Grammy Awards and was honored with the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1987. Despite his success, Charles struggled with heroin addiction for nearly 20 years before successfully overcoming it in 1965. He was known for his distinctive raspy voice and his ability to convey deep emotion through his music. Ray Charles' influence extended beyond music; he was a prominent supporter of the Civil Rights Movement and refused to play to segregated audiences. His life story was portrayed in the 2004 biographical film "Ray," which won several Academy Awards. 雷·查爾斯（節奏藍調） 名言：「我生來就有音樂在體內。音樂是我身體的一部分，就像我的肋骨、腎臟、肝臟、心臟一樣。就像我的血液。當我來到這個世界時，它就已經是我體內的一股力量了。對我來說，它像食物或水一樣必不可少。」 雷·查爾斯，常被稱為「天才」，1930年出生於美國喬治亞州奧爾巴尼。他七歲時因青光眼完全失明，但這並沒有阻止他成為20世紀最具影響力的音樂家之一。查爾斯在1950年代開創了靈魂樂流派，將節奏藍調、福音音樂和爵士樂融合在一起。他學會了用盲文閱讀、書寫和編排音樂，使他能夠創作自己的歌曲。查爾斯是首批獲得主流唱片公司給予藝術控制權的非裔美國音樂家之一。他贏得了17座葛萊美獎，並在1987年獲頒葛萊美終身成就獎。儘管事業有成，查爾斯曾與海洛因成癮抗爭近20年，最終在1965年成功戒毒。他以獨特的沙啞嗓音和傳達深沉情感的能力聞名。雷·查爾斯的影響力不僅限於音樂領域；他也是民權運動的重要支持者，拒絕在種族隔離的場合表演。他的人生故事被改編成2004年的傳記電影《雷》，該片獲得多項奧斯卡獎。 3.B.B. King (Blues) Quote: "The beautiful thing about learning is that nobody can take it away from you." B.B. King, born Riley B. King in 1925 on a cotton plantation in Mississippi, became known as the "King of the Blues." He got his nickname "B.B." from "Beale Street Blues Boy," a moniker he earned as a young musician in Memphis. King's guitar, which he famously named "Lucille," has an interesting story behind it. In 1949, King ran into a burning building to save his guitar from a fire caused by two men fighting over a woman named Lucille. From then on, he named all his guitars Lucille as a reminder never to fight over women or run into burning buildings. King developed a unique guitar style, characterized by his bent notes and vibrato, which influenced countless blues and rock guitarists. Despite only having a fifth-grade education, King was awarded honorary doctorates from several universities. He performed an average of 300 shows a year well into his 70s. B.B. King was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- 1. 喪茶文化 Sung tea "喪"茶跟負能量次文化 播客 Podcast 2. Sung tea menu “Sang” culture, which revels in often-ironic defeatism, is fueled by internet celebrities, through music and the popularity of certain mobile games and TV shows, as well as sad-faced emojis and pessimistic slogans. While “sang” can be a pose or affectation, despondency among a segment of educated young people is a genuine concern for President Xi Jinping and his government, which prizes stability. “Sang” culture, which revels in often-ironic defeatism, is fueled by internet celebrities, through music and the popularity of certain mobile games and TV shows, as well as sad-faced emojis and pessimistic slogans. While China’s roughly 380 million millennials - or those aged about 18 to 35 - have opportunities that earlier generations would have found unimaginable, they also have expectations that are becoming harder to meet. 3. Gudetama 蛋黃哥

------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP加值內容與線上課程 ------------------------------- 通勤學英語VIP訂閱方案：https://open.firstory.me/join/15minstoday VIP訂閱FAQ: https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/5cjptb 社會人核心英語有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎留言你對這集的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected] 意見回覆 : [email protected] ------------------------------- 以下是此單集逐字稿 (播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網) ------------------------------- Gen Z quiz: https://www.wikihow.com/Gen-Z-Slang-Quiz Remember Angel previously talked about her encounters with the newcomers at work? This episode, we are taking on a Gen Z slang challenge to see who can truly communicate with the younger generation. Why don't you take the quiz along with us and tell us who you beat (Me or Angel) in the quiz? Share with us and we will give you a shout out! Hope you will enjoy this episode with us as much as we enjoyed producing it! 更多15Mins Cafe節目: www.15mins.today/15mins-cafe 歡迎主題投稿/意見回覆 : [email protected] 商業合作/贊助來信：[email protected]