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) ------------------------------- Summary: This article discusses the interruption of patients in hospital, when they should be recovering and should be left to sleep and rest. It suggests that a better system should be put in place to make sure that patients are left alone to rest as much as possible to aid in their recovery. Full article here: https://www.15mins.today/blog/551-revelers-across-europe-get-into-the-carnival-spirit Vocabulary and sentences: disruption n. : a form of the word “disrupt” which means to make something difficult to continue in a normal wayIs bad traffic a disruption in big cities?Are car alarms a major disruption at night? acute adj. : very serious or severe Is there an acute shortage of bananas? Are the world's environmental problems acute? addiction n. : the condition of being addicted to somethingAre you addicted to coffee John?Is internet addiction a big problem? 

------------------------------- 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) ------------------------------- 洋情人節將至，你準備好怎麼過了嗎？本週的《英語咖啡館》John老師和Patrick老師帶來了施華洛世奇（Swarovski）這個水晶飾品品牌故事，希望能在最後一刻給你一些靈感啦！ 這個如同鑽石般閃亮，以優雅天鵝為標誌的品牌，一開始其實是用奧地利國花「雪絨花」（就是真善美中的小白花）作為品牌標誌喔。而施華洛世奇的品牌標語 "A diamond for everyone" 也完美詮釋了他希望讓一般大眾也能擁有閃亮配飾的品牌理念。 With Valentine's Day approaching, have you thought about how you'll be celebrating this big day? In this week's English Café, John and Patrick chat about Swarovski, the crystal jewelry brand, giving you last-minute shopping inspiration! This brand now uses an elegant swan as its symbol, actually began with the Edelweiss flower (the small white flower from 'The Sound of Music') as its logo - which happens to be Austria's national flower. Swarovski's brand slogan, 'A diamond for everyone,' perfectly captures their philosophy of making sparkling accessories accessible to the general public. Do you own any Swarovski accessories? Send us a comment 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.K935: Tiktok Reguees: When Americans Choose Chinese Social Media Highlights 主題摘要：The potential TikTok ban in the United States has led to an unexpected cultural phenomenon, with American users deliberately choosing a Chinese platform as a form of protest and cultural exploration.Despite language barriers and different internet norms, Chinese and American users are creating meaningful connections through teaching languages, sharing cultural insights, and engaging in daily life discussions.This digital migration demonstrates how social media can transcend political tensions and create genuine person-to-person connections, challenging traditional notions of digital borders. In an unprecedented shift, American social media users are flocking to Xiaohongshu, a Chinese social media platform, as TikTok faces an imminent ban in the United States. This mass movement has given birth to a unique phenomenon where users identify themselves as "TikTok refugees," fostering an unexpected connection between American and Chinese social media communities. 在一場前所未有的轉變中，隨著 TikTok 在美國面臨即將到來的禁令，美國社群媒體用戶正大量湧入小紅書這個中國社群媒體平台。這場大規模遷移催生了一個獨特現象，用戶自稱為「TikTok 難民」（TikTok refugees），在美國和中國社群媒體社群之間建立起意想不到的連結。 The influx of American users to Xiaohongshu, which translates to "Little Red Book" in English, coincides with the U.S. Supreme Court's consideration of legislation requiring TikTok's separation from its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, by January 19. Rather than migrating to established Western platforms, many American users have deliberately chosen this Chinese application as a form of protest against the proposed ban. This bold decision has propelled Xiaohongshu to the top position of free applications on Apple's App Store in the United States, marking a significant shift in digital platform preferences. The platform has traditionally served as a hub for lifestyle content, including product reviews, travel recommendations, and beauty tutorials, attracting over 300 million monthly active users. 美國用戶湧入小紅書的時機，恰逢美國最高法院正在審議一項法案，該法案要求 TikTok 必須在 1 月 19 日前與其中國母公司字節跳動（ByteDance）分離。許多美國用戶並未選擇轉向知名的西方平台，反而刻意選擇這個中國應用程式，以此抗議擬議中的禁令。這個大膽的決定使小紅書躍升為蘋果應用商店在美國最受歡迎的免費應用程式，標誌著數位平台偏好的重大轉變。該平台傳統上一直是生活風格內容的集散地，包括產品評論、旅遊推薦和美妝教學，每個月吸引了超過 3 億的活躍用戶。 The cultural exchange unfolding on Xiaohongshu has been remarkably positive, with Chinese users extending warm welcomes to their American counterparts. Many Chinese users have volunteered to teach Mandarin, while others provide valuable guidance on navigating the Chinese internet landscape. Despite language barriers and the absence of translation features, users from both countries are discovering innovative ways to communicate and share their experiences. Some American users have even begun learning basic Mandarin phrases to better interact with their new online friends, while Chinese users offer assistance with understanding cultural nuances and platform features. 在小紅書上展開的文化交流異常正面，中國用戶熱情歡迎他們的美國朋友。許多中國用戶自願教授普通話，還有人提供有價值的中文網路使用指南。儘管存在語言障礙且缺乏翻譯功能，兩國用戶仍在發掘創新的方式來溝通和分享經驗。一些美國用戶甚至開始學習基礎普通話片語例句，以便更好地與他們的新網友互動，而中國用戶則協助他們理解文化細微差異和平台功能。 This digital migration presents both challenges and opportunities for cross-cultural understanding. While American users are exploring a new platform for expression and cultural exchange, they must adapt to different content moderation rules and cultural norms. Some Chinese users have kindly educated newcomers about sensitive topics that might face censorship, while others engage in lighthearted discussions about culture, food, and daily life. The situation has created an unexpected space for genuine person-to-person interactions between American and Chinese users, demonstrating how social media can effectively bridge cultural divides even amid broader geopolitical tensions. As this digital experiment continues to unfold, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the potential for social media to foster international understanding and connection, challenging traditional notions of digital borders and cultural barriers in our increasingly interconnected world. 這場數位遷徙為跨文化理解帶來挑戰和機遇。當美國用戶在探索這個表達和文化交流的新平台時，他們必須適應不同的內容審核規則和文化規範。一些中國用戶善意地提醒新來者關於可能面臨審查的敏感話題，而其他人則投入輕鬆的文化、美食和日常生活討論。這種情況創造了一個意想不到的空間，讓美國和中國用戶進行真誠的個人互動，展現了社群媒體如何在更廣泛的地緣政治緊張局勢中有效地為文化鴻溝架起橋樑。隨著這場數位實驗的推展，它為社群媒體促進國際理解和連結的潛力提供了一個迷人的視角，挑戰了我們在這個日益互聯的世界中對數位邊界和文化障礙的傳統認知。 Keyword Drills 關鍵字：Influx (In-flux) [noun. when many people or things arrive at

------------------------------- 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) ------------------------------- Topic: Enjoy your coffee, but know your limits Many people choose to drink coffee for refreshment when they feel weary, but it would be wrong to think that coffee is the only thing that contains caffeine. There is caffeine in tea, cocoa, cola drinks and so on. 許多民眾在精神不濟時，會選擇飲用咖啡來提神，但別以為咖啡因只有在咖啡、茶裡有，可可亞、可樂等都含有咖啡因。 Is caffeine good or bad for your health? Nutritionists say that getting an appropriate amount of caffeine can promote gastrointestinal peristalsis and perk you up, but remember not to take too much, otherwise it may put even more strain on your body. 究竟咖啡因對身體是好還是壞？營養師表示，攝取適量的咖啡因能夠有助腸胃蠕動及提振精神，但切記勿攝取過量，否則可能會造成身體更多的負擔。 On Aug. 24, nutritionist Yu Chu-ching wrote a post on her “Julie dietician” Facebook page, saying that the main benefits of caffeine are lifting one’s spirits, promoting gastrointestinal peristalsis, reducing fluid retention and moderating one’s appetite. Caffeine has its strongest effect about one hour after drinking, and it takes about 40 hours to fully metabolize 200 milligrams (mg) of caffeine. However, people’s metabolic responses are not all exactly the same. In addition, people should beware of consuming too much, which can cause discomfort such as anxiety, palpitations and insomnia. Healthy adults can consume up to about 300mg in one day. The average commercially available large cup of coffee contains 200mg of caffeine, so drinking two cups will take you over the limit. 營養師余朱青八月二十四日在臉書粉專「余朱青Julie營養師」發文指出，咖啡因的優點，主要是提振精神、促進腸胃蠕動、消水腫、減緩食慾。而咖啡因最強的時候是喝完一小時後，大約四十個小時才會代謝完兩百毫克的咖啡因，不過每個人新陳代謝反應並不完全相同。此外，小心攝取過量引起身體不適，如焦慮、心悸、失眠等，對健康成人而言，一天可以攝取的咖啡因量大約於三百毫克內。一般市售大杯咖啡就含有兩百毫克咖啡因，喝兩杯就會超標！ Yu said that those who suffer from heart disease should reduce this amount to about one half and not take more than 150 to 200mg of caffeine a day. Children under 12 years old should not touch caffeine, while teenagers should not exceed 100mg a day. As for pregnant women, they should go easy on it and not consume more than 100 to 200mg in one day. 余朱青表示，如果有心臟疾病的人，份量大概是要減到一半，一天不要攝取超過一百五十到兩百毫克的咖啡因；小於十二歲不要碰咖啡因，青少年一天不要超過一百毫克；然而孕婦要比較節制，一天不要超過一百到兩百毫克。 Yu reminded her readers not to eat a load of excess sugar at the same time as consuming caffeine, otherwise it may cancel out many of the benefits. She also said that carbonated beverages and energy drinks contain sugar and other additives, so it is best not to drink them very often. 余朱青提醒，攝取咖啡因時記得不要同時吃進一堆多餘的糖，這可能會讓咖啡因的好處大打折扣，而碳酸飲料或能量飲料，因含有糖和其他添加物，不宜常喝。Source article: https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/lang/archives/2021/09/14/2003764311 Next Article Topic: Seattle startup rolling out new coffee product without coffee beans There’s a new guilt-free product underway that is planning to perk up the coffee industry. 有個新的無罪惡感產品正在進行，計畫振興咖啡產業。 Seattle-based Atomo Coffee Inc. is grinding up what it dubs as coffeeless coffee - derived from sunflower seed husks and watermelon seeds, which undergo a patented chemical process. 位於西雅圖的「原子咖啡」正在研磨其所稱的無咖啡咖啡，源自葵花籽殼與西瓜籽，並經過專利的化學過程處理。 The processing of such ingredients results into molecules that set out to mimic the flavor and feel of real java. 將這些成分加工會產生一些分子，來模仿真實爪哇（咖啡）的味道與感覺。 The product’s grounds are brewed just like a regular cup of coffee and will still contain caffeine. 這款產品的咖啡渣就像普通咖啡一樣沖泡，並且仍然含有咖啡因。 The company cites the devastating effects of climate change and the deforestation of approximately 250,000 acres of land per year as the catalyst behind its ’’naturally derived ingredients’’ delivering ’’the same great coffee experience without the negative environmental impacts.’’ 該公司援引氣候變遷的破壞性影響，與每年約25萬畝森林被砍伐為其「天然衍生成分」背後的催化劑，提供「同樣優秀且沒有對環境造成負面影響的咖啡體驗」。 Next article Topic: Saudi Society Is Changing Just Take a Look at These Coffeehouses For insight into these head-spinning times in Saudi Arabia, where the ultraconservative social and religious codes that micromanage daily life seem to spring a new leak every month — women driving! movie theaters! Usher and Akon rapping to sold-out crowds! — it sometimes pays to read the Google Maps reviews of specialty coffee shops. 沙烏地阿拉伯極度保守的社會和宗教規範控制了日常生活每個細節，最近這些規範似乎每個月都出現新的破口：允許女性開車！准許電影院營運！美國節奏藍調歌手亞瑟小子和阿肯到沙國表演說唱樂的門票賣光！為了深刻了解沙國這些令人頭暈目眩的時刻，有時值得讀讀谷歌地圖中針對沙國精品咖啡店的網友評價。 “I visited this place and was in a total shock!” Tarak Alhamood, a customer at Nabt Fenjan, a Riyadh coffee shop, raged online recently. “YOU r VIOLATING the rules of this country. I hope this

------------------------------- 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 ------------------------------- ------------------------------- 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) ------------------------------- 主題: 五大面試良句The best things you can say in a job interview   原參考文章：https://www.monster.com/career-advice/article/best_things_to_say_in_job_interview   1.    “I was so excited when I learned this position was open.” If you’re just “meh” about a job or a company, chances are you won’t make a lasting impression on an interviewer. To persuade an employer that you’re the best person for the job, you have to show enthusiasm. That means expressing upfront that you’re stoked about the position and the company. 如果你只是對工作或公司“meh”，你很可能不會給面試官留下持久的印象。 為了讓雇主相信你是這份工作的最佳人選，你必須表現出熱情。 這意味著要提前表達你對職位和公司的興趣。 2.    “This job aligns well with my experience and qualifications, and here’s why.” It’s important to have anecdotes prepared that demonstrate your expertise. Choose stories that highlight your best strengths and core skills. For example, “I see that the job requires someone who thoroughly knows how to use XYZ software; I relied on XYZ software in my past two jobs, which helped me cut delivery time by 10%, so I’m very comfortable with it. I even trained new employees in how to use the program, which is something I could do for you here.” 準備好能證明你的專業知識的故事很重要。 選擇突出你的優勢和核心技能的故事。 例如，“我發現這項工作需要一個完全知道如何使用 XYZ 軟體的人； 我在過去的兩份工作中都依賴 XYZ 軟體，它幫助我將交貨時間縮短了 10%，所以我很滿意。 我甚至培訓了新員工如何使用該程式，這是我可以為公司做的事情。” 3.    “I read about that project on your website.” An informed, knowledgeable candidate is a powerful candidate. “Any time you can demonstrate you’ve done your homework is a way you set yourself apart,” says Marinelli. 一個消息靈通、知識淵博的候選人是一個強有力的候選人。 “任何時候你可以證明你已經完成了你對公司的了解，這就是你讓自己與眾不同的一種方式，”馬里內利說。 4.    Keywords from the job description Job postings don’t just outline what the requirements are for a position—they provide you with buzzwords that you can use during a job interview to make you a more appealing candidate. For instance, if a job position uses the phrase “multichannel marketing initiatives,” reuse that phrase in one of your answers: “I know that problem solving is one of the crucial skills for this position. At my last job, I was working on developing multichannel marketing initiatives and relied on my problem solving daily. Let me give you a few examples.” 職位公告不僅概述了職位的要求 - 它們為您提供流行語，您可以在求職面試中使用這些流行語，使您成為更具吸引力的候選人。 例如，如果一個工作職位使用“全通路行銷計劃”這個短語，那麼在你的一個答案中重複使用這個短語：“我知道解決問題是這個職位的關鍵技能之一。 在我的上一份工作中，我致力於開發全通路行銷計劃，並依靠我每天解決的問題。 讓我給你舉幾個例子。” 5.    The interviewer’s name One way to forge a human connection with a hiring manager is to casually use the person’s name two or three times during the interview. It sounds simple, but it works. “Job interviews are very much about intuition and chemistry,” says Lynda Spiegel, resume writer and job search coach at Rising Star Resumes. “Saying the interviewer’s name can help you cement a relationship.” 與招聘經理建立人際關係的一種方法是在面試中隨意使用該人的名字兩到三遍。 這聽起來很簡單，但它確實有效。“求職面試非常注重直覺和化學反應，”Rising Star Resumes 的簡歷撰稿人和求職教練琳達·斯皮格爾 (Lynda Spiegel) 說。 “說出面試官的名字可以幫助你鞏固一段關係。”

------------------------------- 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) ------------------------------- 最近氣溫上上下下，你有進補嗎？本週的《英語咖啡館》克寧老師要和John老師一起探索台灣的火鍋文化！從傳統藥膳鍋到現代涮涮鍋，從冬季限定到全年熱賣，聊聊各式各樣的火鍋。 克寧老師和阿鍵老師前陣子一起吃了岡山風格的羊肉爐，但你知道其實台灣還有溪湖風格的羊肉爐嗎？除了羊肉爐，我們也聊到了薑母鴨、麻油雞等冬季進補三寶，以及全年無休的麻辣鍋和涮涮鍋。 The temperature has been fluctuating lately—have you been eating nourishing foods to keep warm? This week on English Cafe, Klim and I dive into Taiwan’s hot pot culture! From traditional herbal hot pots to modern shabu-shabu, from seasonal specialties to year-round favorites, they’ll discuss the wide variety of hot pot styles. Recently, Klim and Jan enjoyed a Gangshan-style lamb hot pot together. But did you know Taiwan also has a Xihu-style lamb hot pot? In addition to lamb hot pot, they’ll explore Taiwan’s winter nourishment treasures like ginger duck and sesame oil chicken, as well as the ever-popular spicy hot pot and shabu-shabu that can be enjoyed all year long.

小額贊助支持本節目： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s 留言告訴我你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments ------------------------------- 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) ------------------------------- 國際時事跟讀 Ep.K931: Deadly Wildfires Ravage Los Angeles as Climate Crisis Intensifies Highlights 主題摘要：The Los Angeles wildfires have caused unprecedented damage, claiming 25 lives and potentially becoming America's costliest fire disaster at $150 billion.Poor weather conditions, including strong Santa Ana winds and extremely dry weather, have created perfect conditions for fires to spread rapidly.Infrastructure problems like empty water reservoirs and failing hydrants, combined with climate change effects, highlight serious emergency preparedness issues. Los Angeles faces an unprecedented wildfire emergency that has claimed 25 lives and wreaked havoc across the metropolitan area. The devastating blazes have consumed thousands of structures in what experts predict could become the costliest fire disaster in United States history, with damage estimates soaring to $150 billion. The crisis has pushed emergency services to their limits and exposed critical vulnerabilities in the city's disaster preparedness. 洛杉磯正面臨前所未見的野火災情，已造成 25 人喪生，並在都會區造成嚴重破壞。這場毀滅性大火吞噬了數千棟建築物，專家預測這可能成為美國歷史上代價最高的火災，損失估計高達 1,500 億美元。這場危機已將緊急救災系統推至極限，並暴露出該市災害應變準備的重大漏洞。 The Palisades and Eaton fires remain the primary concerns for firefighting teams. The Palisades fire, having consumed over 23,000 acres, threatens the prestigious Brentwood neighborhood and the world-renowned Getty Center art museum. Despite being smaller, the Eaton fire has proven more lethal, responsible for 16 fatalities. The destruction's scope is staggering, with more than 12,000 structures reduced to ashes, including the homes of celebrities Mel Gibson and Paris Hilton. Tens of thousands of residents now face power outages, adding to the crisis's complexity. 帕利塞茲和伊頓野火仍是消防隊伍的主要關注點。帕利塞茲野火已燒毀超過 23,000 英畝土地，威脅到高級住宅區布倫特伍德和世界知名的蓋蒂中心美術博物館（Getty Center）。雖然規模較小，但伊頓野火造成更多傷亡，已奪走 16 條人命。野火的破壞規模令人震驚，超過 12,000 棟建築物化為灰燼，包括名人梅爾・吉勃遜和派瑞絲・希爾頓的豪宅。數萬居民面臨停電問題，使危機更加複雜。 The fires' rapid spread has been fueled by a perfect storm of environmental conditions. Downtown Los Angeles has received a mere 0.16 inches of rain since October, creating exceptionally dry conditions. When combined with the powerful Santa Ana winds, these conditions have created an ideal environment for fire propagation. The National Weather Service maintains red flag warnings across affected areas, indicating continued high fire danger. The forecast of strong winds through Wednesday has raised concerns about potential new blazes and challenges to existing containment efforts. 野火快速蔓延是由於環境條件形成的完美風暴。洛杉磯市中心自十月以來僅有 0.16 英吋降雨量，造成極度乾燥的狀況。加上強勁的聖塔安那風，這些條件營造出火勢擴散的理想環境。國家氣象局在受影響地區持續發布紅色警戒，表示火災危險持續存在。預報顯示強風將持續至週三，引發人們對新火勢和現有火場控制的擔憂。 The emergency response has encountered significant obstacles, prompting serious questions about the city's preparedness. A controversial discovery revealed that some fire hydrants lost water pressure during critical moments, and the Santa Ynez Reservoir was empty for maintenance when the fires began. California Governor Gavin Newsom has called for an independent investigation into these infrastructure failures. Climate experts point to the region's recent "whiplash" weather patterns - extreme shifts between wet and dry periods - as a major contributing factor. This climate volatility has created abundant dry vegetation, perfect kindling for wildfires. As Los Angeles residents prepare for what could be an extended period of fire activity, authorities are simultaneously fighting the current blazes while planning an extensive rebuilding effort. The crisis serves as a stark reminder of climate change's intensifying impact on urban areas and the urgent need for improved disaster preparedness in an era of extreme weather events. 緊急應變遭遇重大障礙，引發對該市準備工作的嚴重質疑。一項爭議性發現顯示，部分消防栓在關鍵時刻失去水壓，且聖伊內斯水庫在火災發生時正進行維修而處於空置狀態。加州州長葛文・紐森已要求對這些基礎設施失靈展開獨立調查。氣候專家指出，該地區近期的「劇烈波動」天氣模式－在極端潮濕和乾燥期間的劇烈轉換－是一個重要因素。這種氣候波動造就了大量乾燥植被，成為野火的完美起火燃料。隨著洛杉磯居民為可能延長的火災活動期做準備，當局在撲滅現有火勢的同時，也在規劃大規模的重建工作。這場危機明確提醒我們氣候變遷對城市地區的加劇影響，以及在極端天氣事件頻發的時代，迫切需要改善災害應變措施。 Keyword Drills 關鍵字：Vulnerabilities (Vul-ner-a-bil-i-ties) [noun. weak points or problems that can be easily attacked or damaged]: The crisis has exposed critical vulnerabilities in the city's disaster preparedness.Neighborhood (Ne

------------------------------- 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.K931: Deadly Wildfires Ravage Los Angeles as Climate Crisis Intensifies Highlights 主題摘要：The Los Angeles wildfires have caused unprecedented damage, claiming 25 lives and potentially becoming America's costliest fire disaster at $150 billion.Poor weather conditions, including strong Santa Ana winds and extremely dry weather, have created perfect conditions for fires to spread rapidly.Infrastructure problems like empty water reservoirs and failing hydrants, combined with climate change effects, highlight serious emergency preparedness issues. Los Angeles faces an unprecedented wildfire emergency that has claimed 25 lives and wreaked havoc across the metropolitan area. The devastating blazes have consumed thousands of structures in what experts predict could become the costliest fire disaster in United States history, with damage estimates soaring to $150 billion. The crisis has pushed emergency services to their limits and exposed critical vulnerabilities in the city's disaster preparedness. 洛杉磯正面臨前所未見的野火災情，已造成 25 人喪生，並在都會區造成嚴重破壞。這場毀滅性大火吞噬了數千棟建築物，專家預測這可能成為美國歷史上代價最高的火災，損失估計高達 1,500 億美元。這場危機已將緊急救災系統推至極限，並暴露出該市災害應變準備的重大漏洞。 The Palisades and Eaton fires remain the primary concerns for firefighting teams. The Palisades fire, having consumed over 23,000 acres, threatens the prestigious Brentwood neighborhood and the world-renowned Getty Center art museum. Despite being smaller, the Eaton fire has proven more lethal, responsible for 16 fatalities. The destruction's scope is staggering, with more than 12,000 structures reduced to ashes, including the homes of celebrities Mel Gibson and Paris Hilton. Tens of thousands of residents now face power outages, adding to the crisis's complexity. 帕利塞茲和伊頓野火仍是消防隊伍的主要關注點。帕利塞茲野火已燒毀超過 23,000 英畝土地，威脅到高級住宅區布倫特伍德和世界知名的蓋蒂中心美術博物館（Getty Center）。雖然規模較小，但伊頓野火造成更多傷亡，已奪走 16 條人命。野火的破壞規模令人震驚，超過 12,000 棟建築物化為灰燼，包括名人梅爾・吉勃遜和派瑞絲・希爾頓的豪宅。數萬居民面臨停電問題，使危機更加複雜。 The fires' rapid spread has been fueled by a perfect storm of environmental conditions. Downtown Los Angeles has received a mere 0.16 inches of rain since October, creating exceptionally dry conditions. When combined with the powerful Santa Ana winds, these conditions have created an ideal environment for fire propagation. The National Weather Service maintains red flag warnings across affected areas, indicating continued high fire danger. The forecast of strong winds through Wednesday has raised concerns about potential new blazes and challenges to existing containment efforts. 野火快速蔓延是由於環境條件形成的完美風暴。洛杉磯市中心自十月以來僅有 0.16 英吋降雨量，造成極度乾燥的狀況。加上強勁的聖塔安那風，這些條件營造出火勢擴散的理想環境。國家氣象局在受影響地區持續發布紅色警戒，表示火災危險持續存在。預報顯示強風將持續至週三，引發人們對新火勢和現有火場控制的擔憂。 The emergency response has encountered significant obstacles, prompting serious questions about the city's preparedness. A controversial discovery revealed that some fire hydrants lost water pressure during critical moments, and the Santa Ynez Reservoir was empty for maintenance when the fires began. California Governor Gavin Newsom has called for an independent investigation into these infrastructure failures. Climate experts point to the region's recent "whiplash" weather patterns - extreme shifts between wet and dry periods - as a major contributing factor. This climate volatility has created abundant dry vegetation, perfect kindling for wildfires. As Los Angeles residents prepare for what could be an extended period of fire activity, authorities are simultaneously fighting the current blazes while planning an extensive rebuilding effort. The crisis serves as a stark reminder of climate change's intensifying impact on urban areas and the urgent need for improved disaster preparedness in an era of extreme weather events. 緊急應變遭遇重大障礙，引發對該市準備工作的嚴重質疑。一項爭議性發現顯示，部分消防栓在關鍵時刻失去水壓，且聖伊內斯水庫在火災發生時正進行維修而處於空置狀態。加州州長葛文・紐森已要求對這些基礎設施失靈展開獨立調查。氣候專家指出，該地區近期的「劇烈波動」天氣模式－在極端潮濕和乾燥期間的劇烈轉換－是一個重要因素。這種氣候波動造就了大量乾燥植被，成為野火的完美起火燃料。隨著洛杉磯居民為可能延長的火災活動期做準備，當局在撲滅現有火勢的同時，也在規劃大規模的重建工作。這場危機明確提醒我們氣候變遷對城市地區的加劇影響，以及在極端天氣事件頻發的時代，迫切需要改善災害應變措施。 Keyword Drills 關鍵字：Vulnerabilities (Vul-ner-a-bil-i-ties) [noun. weak points or problems that can be easily attacked or damaged]: The crisis has exposed critical vulnerabilities in the city's disaster preparedness.Neighborhood (Neigh-bor-hood) [noun. an area where people live that is near your home]: The Palisades fire threatens the prestigious Brentwood neighborhood and the world-renowned Getty Center art museum.Propagatio

------------------------------- 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) ------------------------------- About WFH - Microsoft to let employees work from home permanently Software giant Microsoft will let employees work from home permanently if they choose to, US media reported on Friday, becoming the latest employer to expand work-from-home provisions prompted by the Covid-19 pandemic. 美國媒體週五報導，軟體業巨擘微軟將允許讓員工選擇永久在家工作，在武漢肺炎（新型冠狀病毒病，Covid-19）大流行疫情下，微軟成為最新擴大讓員工遠距上班的雇主。 US tech news website The Verge said most Microsoft employees are still at home as the health crisis drags on, and the company doesn’t expect to reopen its US offices until January of next year at the earliest. 美國科技新聞網站The Verge稱，在這場健康危機拖延之際，大多數微軟員工仍在家辦公，微軟預期最早明年1月才會重新開放在美國的辦公室。 But when it does, workers can choose to work from home permanently with their manager’s approval, although they will have to give up their office space. 但當它重開，員工經主管批准，可以選擇常態性在家工作，儘管他們將必須放棄他們在辦公室的空 間。 Next Article Working parents’ woes deepen as schools shut down again 學校再次關閉 在職父母的麻煩加深 Working parents of kindergarten and elementary school students are struggling again to find suitable childcare options, as all schools in the Seoul metropolitan area have been ordered to move classes online until Sept. 11. （南韓）幼兒園和小學學生的在職父母，正再次努力尋找合適的育兒選項。因為首都圈的所有學校，均已被通令將課程改為線上，直到9月11日。 Although the measure was in response to the recent surge in the number of infections among students, teachers and other education workers, remote learning poses a burden to working parents as younger children are less likely to stay focused on lectures for a longer time. 儘管這些措施旨在因應最近在學生、教師與其他教育工作者中，感染人數激增的疫情，但遠距學習對在職父母造成負擔，因為較年幼的孩童，比較不可能長時間專注於課程。 The only option for working parents is sending their children to "emergency child care" classes, set up at schools for kindergarteners and younger elementary students who are in need of care during the day. 在職父母的唯一選項，是將他們的小孩送到「緊急托兒」班，學校的緊急托兒班是為了有日間照顧需求的幼兒園生及低年級小學生而設。 Source article: https://features.ltn.com.tw/english/article/paper/1410043 ; https://features.ltn.com.tw/english/article/paper/1396438 Next Article Topic: The New, Hip Co-Working Spaces Technology has upended where we work. The line between work and play has been blurred, and the difference between the office and home has all but disappeared. As a result, there's a new class of white-collar workers who roam the earth looking for places to get their jobs done. 科技顛覆了我們工作的場所。工作與玩樂之間的界線模糊了，辦公室和家的區別也幾乎消失了。 因此，出現了新一類的白領工作者，他們在地球上四處遊走，尋找完成他們工作的地方。 Some of them work from home, curled up on the couch or in a home office — maybe with a drone hovering nearby. Others camp out at expensive cafes, refilling their mugs of fancy coffee throughout the day. But increasingly, these untethered employees are gathering in a new kind of office known as the co-working space. 他們當中有些人在家工作，蜷縮在沙發上或是家庭辦公室裡，或許還有架無人機在附近盤旋。其他人則是在昂貴的咖啡店內紮營，整天將他們的昂貴咖啡不斷續杯。 然而，這些不受束縛的員工正聚集在一種被稱為共同工作空間的新的辦公室，而且此風日盛。 Surely, you've heard of these places. But their numbers have multiplied across the country in the past few years, filling a niche for those who need more than a cafe but less than an office. They now come in a wide range of options. Some are fancy; some are not. Some require memberships; some do not. Some target technology workers; others are for writers or small businesses. And in the Los Angeles area, there seems to be a co-working option for every neighborhood and every profession. 你肯定聽說過這些地方，然而它們的數量過去幾年裡在全國卻呈倍數成長，滿足了那些需要一處不只是咖啡店，卻又不像辦公室的場所的小眾的需求。 這種場所如今可有多樣的選擇。有些很昂貴，有些則不會。有些需要是會員，有些則不用。有些瞄準科技業員工，也有些針對作家或小企業。而在洛杉磯地區，每個區里和行業似乎有都共同工作空間可供選擇。 Before you rush out to join a co-working space, there are pros and cons to consider. Some believe working away from a traditional office improves productivity. A study published last year in The Quarterly Journal of Economics examined Ctrip, a 16,000-employee Chinese travel agency, where call-center employees were randomly assigned to work in either the office or the home. Those who worked from home were 13 percent more productive, the report found. When Ctrip gave all its workers the option to work from home, productivity grew even further, to 22 percent. 在你急著加入共同工作空間前，必須考量其中利弊。 有些人認為不在傳統辦公室工作能提高生產力。去年發表在經濟學季刊的一項研究報告對於攜程進行了研究。攜程是家有1萬6000名員工的中國大陸旅行社，其客服中心員工被隨機分配到辦公室或是在家工作。這篇報告發現，在家工作的員工生產力多了13%。當攜程讓所有員工在家工作時，生產力更進一步成長22%。 Another study published last year in the journal Sleep Health, found that people who had flexible work schedules slept better than those who had to report to the office at specific times. But the

------------------------------- 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 ------------------------------- 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) ------------------------------- 歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments     開工如何歡迎同事歸來Welcome your colleagues back to work   Source: https://simplynoted.com/blogs/news/welcome-back-to-work-messagesMake it specific. 要具體 Acknowledge what they were doing and why they were away. This shows that you're aware of what's going on in their life and are interested enough to pay attention. This small detail can make a difference in how much your warm welcome back will resonate with them. Share a story about something that happened while they were gone. 分享能夠讓同事快速跟大家接軌的事 This can help your reunited coworker feel more connected with what they missed and give them helpful context as they ease back into their responsibilities. Ask how their break was and then use that knowledge to write a personalized message. 客製化你的歡迎 This is a simple conversation where you get some extra details to add into your message. You might find out where they went on vacation and then use that to add personal flair. Keep it positive! 正向This isn't a "dear sir or madam" message. This is a coworker and a friend! No need to be all business. Share good wishes to help ease your recipients well-being as they do the tough work of easing back into the swing of things.  Examples:"We missed you, and we're so glad you're back!" "It's great to have you back in the office!" "We hope you had a great time, and we're happy to have you back."   Return from holidays"We can't wait to hear all about your vacation, welcome back!" "We're excited to have you back and can't wait to see all the amazing photos from your trip." "Welcome home! We missed you and can't wait to hear all about your adventures." Return from maternity leave"You are an amazing mom and we are excited to have you back at work." "Congratulations on your new arrival! We are so excited to have you back at work. Welcome back!" "Welcome home to your work family! We missed you and are so happy you're finally back."Return from sick leave"We're so glad you're feeling better and are able to be back with us again." "Welcome back to work! You were sorely missed but we're glad you're finally back and on the mend." "We hope you're feeling better and can't wait to have you back at work." 

------------------------------- 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) -------------------------------

------------------------------- 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.K927: Glittering Stars and Heartfelt Stories: Golden Globes 2025 Highlights 主題摘要："The Brutalist" dominated the awards, highlighting immigrant stories, with Adrien Brody's powerful performance celebrating resilience and the American dream.Demi Moore's first-ever acting award after 45 years proves success can come at any age, inspiring career perseverance.The ceremony balanced glamour with personal touches, as many nominees brought their parents, adding heartwarming family moments. The 82nd Golden Globe Awards marked the beginning of Hollywood's awards season with an evening filled with glamour, heartfelt speeches, and notable wins. The ceremony, hosted by comedian Nikki Glaser, celebrated achievements in both television and film while maintaining its reputation as the entertainment industry's most spirited gathering, blending humor with meaningful moments throughout the night. 第 82 屆金球獎揭開好萊塢頒獎季序幕，這場充滿魅力、真摯演說與矚目成就的盛會，由喜劇演員妮基・格拉瑟主持。典禮延續其作為娛樂圈最歡樂聚會的傳統，在表揚電視和電影成就的同時，巧妙融合幽默與感人時刻，貫穿整個夜晚。 "The Brutalist," a compelling drama about a Holocaust survivor pursuing the American dream, emerged as one of the night's biggest winners. Adrien Brody, who won best actor in a drama for his portrayal of an architect building a new life in the United States, delivered a powerful acceptance speech dedicated to immigrants. The film's success continued as it secured both the best drama picture award and the best director prize for Brady Corbet, establishing itself as a strong contender for the upcoming Academy Awards. The film's triumph highlighted the enduring impact of stories about resilience and hope. 《粗獷派建築師》這部講述大屠殺倖存者追尋美國夢的動人劇作，成為當晚最大贏家。安德林・布洛迪憑藉在片中飾演一位在美國重建生活的建築師，贏得戲劇類最佳男主角。這部電影的成功，還延續到了最佳劇情片獎和布萊迪・寇貝特的最佳導演獎，使其成為即將到來的奧斯卡金像獎的強勁競爭者。本片的勝利凸顯了關於韌性與希望類型故事題材的持久影響力。 The evening was particularly memorable for veteran actress Demi Moore, who won her first-ever acting award for her role in "The Substance." In an emotional speech, Moore reflected on her 45-year career and shared a personal story about being dismissed as a "popcorn actress" three decades ago. Her victory represented a triumphant moment of professional validation and demonstrated that success can come at any stage of one's career. The ceremony also celebrated international talent, with Brazil's Fernanda Torres winning best actress in a drama for her role in "I'm Still Here," a Portuguese language film about survival during Brazil's military dictatorship. Their victories underscored the global reach of compelling storytelling. 這個夜晚對資深女演員黛咪・摩爾來說特別難忘，她憑藉在《懼裂》中的演出首次獲得演技獎項。在感性的得獎感言中，摩爾回顧了她 45 年的演藝生涯，並分享了三十年前被貶為「爆米花演員」的個人故事。她的勝利代表了專業認可的勝利時刻，也證明成功可以在人生的任何階段降臨。典禮同時表揚了國際人才，巴西演員費南妲・托雷斯憑藉在葡萄牙語電影《我仍在此》（I'm Still Here）中飾演在巴西軍事獨裁時期求生的角色，獲得最佳戲劇類女主角。她們的勝利凸顯了動人故事的全球影響力。 The fashion choices at the event were equally noteworthy, with many stars embracing golden hues that matched the prestigious trophies. Celebrities including Ariana Grande, Cate Blanchett, and Mindy Kaling graced the red carpet in stunning metallic gowns, while others opted for bold colors, particularly shades of red. Dakota Fanning turned heads in a striking Dolce & Gabbana creation, while Emma Stone impressed in a Louis Vuitton ensemble. The evening was also marked by touching family moments, as several nominees chose to bring their parents as their dates, including Zoe Saldana, who won best supporting actress for "Emilia Pérez," and Glen Powell, a first-time nominee for his role in "Hitman." These personal touches added warmth to the glamorous celebration. 這場盛會的時尚選擇同樣引人注目，許多明星選擇了與獎座相呼應的金色系。包括亞莉安娜・格蘭德、凱特・布蘭琪和敏迪・卡靈等名人身著閃亮金屬色禮服現身紅毯，而其他人則選擇了大膽的色彩，特別是紅色系。達科塔・芬妮身穿搶眼的 D&G 服裝，艾瑪・史東則以 LV 造型令人印象深刻。這個夜晚還充滿溫馨的家庭時刻，多位入圍者選擇帶著父母作為伴侶出席，包括憑《毒王女人夢》獲得最佳女配角的柔伊・莎達娜，以及憑《當殺手戀愛時》首次入圍的葛倫・鮑威爾。這些人的點綴為華麗的慶典增添了溫馨的氣氛。 Keyword Drills 關鍵字：Meaningful (Mean-ing-ful) [adjective. having a serious, important purpose or having great value]: The film's triumph highlighted the enduring impact of meaningful stories about resilience and hope.Contender (Con-tend-er) [noun. someone or something that has a good chance to win something]: The film's success continued as it secured both awards, establishing itself as a strong contender for the upcoming Academy Awards.Validation (Val-i-da-tion) [noun. proof that something is correct or true, especially official proof or approval]: Her vicory represented a triumphant moment of professional validation and demo

------------------------------- 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 Christmas: Make your own Christmas tree with these money-saving hacks 相信大家都知道，節慶的裝飾品並不便宜，尤其是在亞洲地區。因此，也難怪有越來越多人決定自己DIY製作裝飾品打造出屬於自己的夢幻聖誕節。 Most people agree that decorating for the holidays isn’t cheap, especially in Asia. There is, therefore, little wonder that an increasing number of people have decided to make this Christmas season extra special by doing a lot of crafts on their own. 能夠把一樣東西化腐朽為神奇總是讓人著迷，而展示自己創意成品的最佳方式就是把它掛到聖誕樹上。 There’s something magical about turning something ordinary into something special, and there’s no better way to display your creations than on your Christmas tree. 許多人在網路上分享交流各自創意手作點子，在臉書上還能找到像是「低成本手作」等教你省錢做裝飾品的社團。裡面的成員不吝於分享用花串、燈泡和木框等簡易材料製作聖誕樹的秘訣。 Many ideas are shared online and through money-saving Facebook groups such as “On a Budget.” The members show people how to create a Christmas tree out of just garlands, lights and a wooden frame. 他們放上手作過程的圖片讓人一目瞭然，像是示範如何將常綠樹狀裝飾花串纏繞在三角木框上。 There are many photos that show some crafty methods of creating a tree by simply wrapping the green evergreen-like garland around the triangle-shaped wood frame. 最後，一棵固定在牆上、形狀完美的精美手作聖誕樹令網友驚艷，網友們紛紛留言讚嘆：「這個點子太棒了！看起來好美」、「很適合住在小房間的人用來佈置」。 The end result is a stunning, perfectly shaped wall-mounted Christmas tree. “What a great idea this looks fantastic,” one person wrote. Another said: “Great for anyone who has a small room.” 這些手作教學除了能吸引房間不夠擺不下一棵正規大小聖誕樹的人以外，對於那些不想花大錢買短期聖誕裝飾品的人而言，這些教學也相當實用。 In addition to appealing to people who may not have room for an actual tree, the hack is also useful for those who do not want to spend money on Christmas decor that is only good for a few weeks. 有網友留言稱讚：「手作DIY告訴我們只要善用創意與想像力，不用花大錢也能做很多事。」另外也有熱心的人分享自己的手作技巧，既簡單又能充滿節慶氣氛。 “Shows what you can do with imagination and a small budget,” one person wrote. Others shared their own versions of the hack, showing just how festive and easy it can be. Next Article Topic: Chimei Museum to hold pre-Christmas celebrations on weekends 超浪漫！奇美博物館超大聖誕樹成熱門打卡地 進入一年的尾聲也代表浪漫聖誕節即將來臨，各大百貨商場開始佈置聖誕裝飾並擺出超大聖誕樹吸引民眾目光。住在台南的你有福了！奇美博物館在繆思廣場擺放一棵13公尺高的「幸福耶誕樹」，每日下午五點半至十點半點燈，浪漫的燈光下搭配奇美博物館西洋建築外觀，絕對是聖誕節熱門打卡景點！ Christmas is around the corner and local department stores have already installed their Christmas decorations and set up large Christmas trees to attract the attention of shoppers. If you are living in Tainan, you should know that The Chimei Museum has also installed a 13-meter-high Christmas tree on its Muse Plaza. The tree lights up from 5:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. every day. The installation is the perfect match to the western architecture of the museum which has become one of the top destinations for celebrating Christmas in southern Taiwan. 另外還有集結多達70攤的皇家聖誕市集於十二月十四、十五日、二十一日和二十二日兩個週末中午十二點至晚上十點展開，販賣各式美食飲料，還有皇家貴族最愛糕點。 In addition, the Royal Christmas Market boasts 70 specialty stalls on the weekends on Dec. 14-15 and 21-22nd from noon to 10 p.m., selling various delights, drinks and Royal family’s favorite pastry. 活動期間還有精緻音樂饗宴，邀請多位奇美藝術獎得主在館內大廳演奏弦樂、管樂、爵士樂等聖誕主題音樂。 What’s more? There will also be music feasts over the weekends. Some award-winning musicians are invited to play Christmas-themed jazz and orchestra music during the celebrations. Source article: https://chinapost.nownews.com/20191209-894509 ; https://chinapost.nownews.com/20191127-873777 Topic: Dihua Street’s Lunar New Year market Every year, in the two-week run up to the Lunar New Year break, businesses along Taipei’s Dihua Street hold a special Lunar New Year specialties market. 每年春節假期前兩週左右，台北迪化街的商家都會辦理年貨市集。 The store-lined roads, with outside stalls laden with New Year dried fruits, candies, spiced drinks and meat jerkies, are packed with people anxious to stock up for the holiday. 商店林立的年貨大街擠滿趕辦年貨的人，店鋪前擺出的攤子滿是蜜餞、糖果、薑茶和肉乾等年貨。 The weather was cold on Wednesday, but mercifully sunny to take the bite from the cold, and the air was full of anticipation and festive spirit. 週三天氣很冷，但幸好出了太陽，驅走了一些寒意，空氣中充滿著年節的味道與對過年的期盼。 The sellers themselves, wearing matching Lunar New Year jackets and tops in each individual stall, were all in a jovial mood, smiling and joking with the customers as they handed out free samples and took their money. 每攤的售貨員都穿著自家店統一的春節外套及上衣，喜氣洋洋，發試吃品和收錢的時候，都跟顧客有說有笑。 The shoppers were dressed up warm, some in casual clothes, some in their best suits for the occasion; there were monks and foreigners and photographers and mothers bringing their children, as well as pet owners, carrying 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老師和阿鍵老師來進行農曆年前的 Teacher's Lounge。 在這一集中，我和阿健老師解答了2024年底，十二月份的Instagram 「英美大不同」小測驗的答題。我們分析了“英美大不同”的測驗結果，討論了如“雪橇”、“句號”、“絞肉”等詞彙在兩國的文化差異和用法。此外，我們探討了互聯網時代對語言發展的影響，並總結了過去一年的小測驗，鼓勵聽眾繼續參與互動。隨著農歷新年即將來臨，我們祝願大家在2025蛇年中幸福安康。 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: Headphones have come a long way. Decades ago, they were considered products only for the audiophiles, and once sony came out with their walkmans, earphones and headphones have become an important accessory for the on-the-go listening experience. Now the headphones and earphones are not only made for all levels of audio enthusiasts, but also for the those who likes to show off a bit of their status by wearing luxury headphones. Through the article, we get to learn about a few that the celebrity are embracing these days. Full article here: https://www.15mins.today/blog/542-my-headphones-my-self Vocabulary and sample sentences: 1. DJ – Disc Jockey (verb and noun)I would love to learn how to DJMy favorite DJ is Armin van Buuren.Complement – sth that enhances or improves itLuxury headphones will complement my outfit for today.Quality headphones are usually complemented by high-tech materials.Privacy – state of not being disturbed or observed by othersPrivacy is very important when you take a shower.My mother only started to respect my privacy when I moved out of the house.

------------------------------- 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 本週的《英語咖啡館》延續上週討論的「令人厭惡的現代趨勢」！John老師和Angel繼續分享生活中令人困擾的新常態。John老師這次把矛頭指向自助點餐機，你會不會覺得自助點餐機操作介面太過複雜，讓原本應該更方便的服務反而變得更耗時呢？而Angel老師話鋒一轉，聊到了時下流行的「迷你包」，明明裝不了什麼東西，卻這麼受歡迎！ This week on English Café, John and Angel continue last week's discussion on "frustrating modern trends"! They delve further into the new norms of daily life that can be a real headache. This time, John directs his criticism toward self-service ordering kiosks. Do you find their interfaces overly complicated, turning what should be a more convenient service into a time-consuming ordeal? Meanwhile, Angel shifts the focus to the trendy "mini bags." Despite being barely big enough to hold anything, why are they so incredibly popular? 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.K923: Walmart's $78 Birkin Dupe: Disrupting Luxury Fashion Highlights 主題摘要：Walmart's $78 Birkin dupe demonstrates a significant shift in retail strategy, successfully attracting affluent customers by offering affordable alternatives to luxury items while maintaining quality features.The original Hermès Birkin's value has outperformed traditional investments like the S&P 500 and gold, growing 500% over 35 years through strict exclusivity policies.Consumer behavior is evolving as even high-income shoppers prioritize value over exclusivity, challenging luxury brands to reconsider their traditional approaches to maintaining brand prestige. The retail giant Walmart has stirred up considerable attention in the fashion world with its latest offering: a $78 leather handbag that closely resembles the iconic Hermès Birkin bag. This affordable alternative, nicknamed the "Wirkin" by social media users, has become a viral sensation and represents a significant shift in how luxury fashion is being democratized in today's market. The dupe's popularity has grown so rapidly that it has repeatedly sold out on Walmart's website, leaving many eager customers waiting for restocks. 零售巨頭沃爾瑪（Walmart）推出最新商品，在時尚界引起轟動：一款售價 78 美元、與愛馬仕經典柏金包極為相似的皮革手提包。這款平價替代品被社群媒體用戶暱稱為「Wirkin」，已成為網路熱門話題，並代表著當今市場中奢侈品時尚大眾化的重要轉變。這款複刻品的人氣快速竄升，以致在沃爾瑪網站上多次售罄，讓許多熱切期待的顧客只能等待補貨。 The original Hermès Birkin bag stands as a symbol of exclusivity and wealth, with prices ranging from $10,000 to over $300,000 for rare pieces. The bag's prestige is carefully maintained through strict purchase requirements, as customers must establish a purchase history with Hermès before being allowed to buy one. This exclusivity has contributed to the Birkin's remarkable investment value, with studies showing its worth has grown more than 500% over 35 years, outperforming both the S&P 500 and gold. The handbag's design, which originated in 1984 for British actress Jane Birkin, has become a globally recognized emblem of status and wealth. 原版愛馬仕柏金包是獨佔性與財富的象徵，價格從 10,000 美元到稀有款超過 300,000 美元不等。愛馬仕透過嚴格的購買條件來維持包款的尊絕不凡，顧客必須建立購買紀錄才能獲准購買。這種獨佔性為柏金包帶來了驚人的投資價值，研究顯示其價值在 35 年間成長超過 500%，表現優於股市的標準普爾 500 指數（S&P 500）和黃金。這款手提包的設計源自 1984 年，為英國演員珍．柏金（Jane Birkin）所創，如今已成為全球認可的地位與財富象徵。 Walmart's version, marketed under the brand name "KAMUGO Genuine Leather Handbags," has captured the attention of budget-conscious consumers seeking luxury aesthetics without the astronomical price tag. The replica maintains several key features of the original, including genuine cowhide leather construction and the signature lock mechanism. This strategic move by Walmart aligns with their recent success in attracting higher-income customers, with the retailer reporting that 75% of their market share gains came from households earning over $100,000 annually. The company has successfully positioned itself as a destination for high-end dupes, making it socially acceptable for affluent shoppers to proudly say they purchased items at Walmart. 沃爾瑪版本以「KAMUGO Genuine Leather Handbags」品牌銷售，吸引了追求奢華美感但不願支付天價的精打細算消費者。這款複刻品保留了原版的多項關鍵特色，包括真牛皮製作和標誌性的鎖扣機制。沃爾瑪的這項策略性行動與其近期成功吸引高收入客戶的成果相呼應，零售商報告指出，其市場份額增長的 75% 來自年收入超過 100,000 美元的家庭。公司已成功將自己定位為高端複刻品的購物勝地，讓富裕的購物者也能自豪地表示他們在沃爾瑪購物。 The phenomenon of luxury dupes has sparked diverse reactions across the fashion community. While some authentic Birkin owners have expressed disapproval, emphasizing the fundamental differences between the original and the replica, others view it as a practical alternative for fashion-conscious consumers. The trend reflects a broader shift in consumer behavior, where even affluent customers are increasingly prioritizing value over exclusivity. Fashion influencers have contributed to the hype surrounding these dupes, leveraging online shopping and affordable shipping to make luxury-inspired items more accessible than ever. This changing landscape has led to discussions about the future of luxury fashion and whether traditional high-end brands need to reconsider their approach to maintaining exclusivity while meeting evolving consumer demands. 奢侈品複刻現象在時尚圈引發各種不同反應。雖然一些真品柏金包的擁有者表達不認同，強調原版與複刻品之間的根本差異，但其他人則視其為注重時尚消費者的實用選擇。這股趨勢反映了消費者行為的廣泛轉變，就連富裕的顧客也越來越重視商品本身的價值而非獨佔性。時尚網紅們助長了這些複刻品的熱潮，利用網路購物和平價運費，讓奢華風格商品比以往更容易取得。這個不斷變化的局勢，引發了對奢侈品時尚未來的討論，以及傳統高端品牌是否需要重新思考如何在維持獨佔性的同時，滿足不斷演變的消費者需求。 Keyword Drills 關鍵字：Democratized (De-moc-ra-tized) [verb. made something available to ev

------------------------------- 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: Can Germany’s New Chancellor Revive the Left in Europe? Last December, as he was plotting what most considered to be a hopeless bid to become Germany’s next chancellor, Olaf Scholz interrupted his campaign preparations for a video call with an American philosopher. 去年12月，蕭茲策畫競選德國下任總理，被多數人認為毫無希望之際，他為了與一名美國哲學教授視訊通話而暫停參選準備工作。 Scholz, a Social Democrat, wanted to talk to the philosopher, Michael J. Sandel of Harvard, about why center-left parties like his had been losing working-class voters to populists, and the two men spent an hour discussing a seemingly simple theme that would become the centerpiece of the Scholz campaign: “Respect.” 社會民主黨籍的蕭茲想跟美國哈佛大學哲學教授桑德爾談談，像他的黨這類中間偏左政黨為何失去勞動階級選民，眼看這些人轉而支持民粹主義者。兩人花了一小時討論一個看似簡單、後來成為蕭茲競選骨幹的主題「尊重」。 Scholz is Germany’s ninth postwar chancellor — and the first Social Democrat in 16 years — succeeding Angela Merkel and heading a three-party coalition government. Defying polls and pundits, he led his 158-year-old party from the precipice of irrelevance to an unlikely victory — and now wants to show that the center-left can again become a political force in Europe. 蕭茲是德國戰後第九位總理，也是16年來首位社民黨籍總理，接替梅克爾並領導三黨聯合政府。他打破民調和專家預測，帶領他那成立158年的政黨，走出被認為無關緊要的險境，取得難以置信的勝利，如今他希望展現中間偏左勢力能再度成為歐洲一支政治力量。 For the center-left in Europe, Scholz’s victory comes at a critical moment. Over the past decade, many of the parties that once dominated European politics have become almost obsolete, seemingly bereft of ideas and largely abandoned by their working-class base. 對歐洲中間偏左勢力而言，蕭茲勝選的時機很重要。過去十年來，許多一度主導歐洲政治的這類政黨變得幾乎被淘汰，他們看來沒有主張，而且大致被他們的勞動階級基本盤放棄。 The political energy has been on the right, especially the populist far right, with many American conservatives flocking to countries like Hungary to study the “illiberal democracy” of Viktor Orban, that nation’s far-right prime minister. 政治能量在右派這邊，尤其是民粹極右派，許多美國保守派人士湧入匈牙利這類國家，研究該國極右派總理奧班的「不自由民主思想」。 “The biggest concern in politics for me is that our liberal democracies are coming increasingly under pressure,” Mr. Scholz says about himself on the Social Democrats’ website. “We have to solve the problems so that the cheap slogans of the populists don’t catch.” 蕭茲在社民黨網站上描述自己：「對我而言政治上最大的憂慮是，我們的自由民主政體承受愈來愈大的壓力。我們必須解決這些問題，好讓民粹主義者的廉價口號無法打動人心。」 Last year, in the middle of the first Covid-19 lockdown, Mr. Scholz read Professor Sandel’s latest book, “The Tyranny of Merit” in which the Harvard philosopher argued that the meritocratic narrative of education as an engine of social mobility had fueled resentment and contributed to the rise of populists like Mr. Trump. 去年德國實施首次新冠肺炎防疫封鎖時，蕭茲閱讀了桑德爾教授最新著作「成功的反思」，這位哈佛哲學教授在書中主張，菁英領導體制陳述的「教育是社會流動的動力」，助長憤恨並促成美國前總統川普這種民粹政治人物崛起。 “The backlash of 2016 vividly expressed that simply telling people, ‘You can make it if you try,’ was not an adequate response to the wage stagnation and job loss brought about by globalization,” Professor Sandel said in an interview. “What Social Democratic elites missed was the insult implicit in this response to inequality, because what it said was, ‘If you’re struggling in the new economy, your failure is your fault.’” 桑德爾受訪時說：「2016年的強烈反應鮮明表達出，僅僅告訴人們『去嘗試就能做到』，並非對全球化造成的薪資停滯和失業的適切回應。社民黨菁英沒注意的是，這種對於不平等現象的回應隱含著侮辱，因為它說的是，『如果你在新經濟裡苦苦掙扎，你失敗是你自己的錯』。」Source article: https://udn.com/news/story/6904/5970225 Next Article Topic: Europe’s COVID Culture War Plays Out in Pockets of Germany Sven Müller is proudly unvaccinated. He thinks COVID-19 vaccines are neither effective nor safe but a way to make money for pharmaceutical companies and corrupt politicians who are taking away his freedom. 斯凡．穆勒對未接種疫苗感到自豪。他認為新冠疫苗既不有效也不安全，是幫製藥公司及剝奪他自由的腐敗政客賺錢的一種方式。 Under state rules to stem coronavirus infections, he is no longer allowed to go to restaurants, to the bowling alley, to the cinema or to the hairdresser. From next week, he will be barred from entering most shops, too. But that has only strengthened his resolve. 遏制新冠病毒感染的邦法規定，他不得進入餐館、保齡球館、電影院或找理髮師。從下周起，他還被禁止進入多數商店，但這只會堅定他的決心。 “They can’t break me,” said Müller, 40, a bar owner in the town of Annaberg-Buchholz, in the Ore Mountain region in the eastern state of Saxony where the vaccination rate is 44% — the lowest in Germany. 40歲的穆勒說：「他們打不倒我。」他是德東薩克森邦厄爾士山區安娜貝格布赫霍爾茨鎮的一名酒吧 老闆，當地疫苗接種率是全德國最低的44%。 Müller personifies a problem that is as sharp in some parts of Europe as it is in the United States. If Germany had red and blue states, Saxony would be crimson. In places like this, pockets

歡迎留言告訴我們你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cl81kivnk00dn01wffhwxdg2s/comments     在通勤學英語，我們認為英語學習應該是：用最自然的方式學習在全英語，中文為輔的環境Output 可以大於 Input生活工作之餘都有機會學習學到的明天就可以用 （從生活強關聯事物開始吸收）  英語學習解謎思不是學科，是技能自然語言學習都是從聽跟說開始溝通才是語言的核心  學了很久都還是不會都專注input 而不是output原子習慣 - 學習目標是該 建立平時的input-output系統 不是學幾個字/背了幾套文法每週英語學習應用時間不固定，無法加倍使用 e.g. 一週多少小時使用中文vs英文  想要收到通勤學英語起手式操作手冊，追蹤FB粉專與IG留言或私訊「我想要自然的學習英語」，John老師親自送你操作手冊跟海量學習資源！

------------------------------- 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 Mexico City where 21 odd million people commute to and from work everyday, the solution to overcoming traffic jams and inefficient bus systems is the cable car system. The mexicable is a seven-stop line that was built in the most crowded municipality of Ecatepec. Now commuters use the mexicable system to transfer or commute directly to work, saving people up to two hours every day! Other intercity cable car system around the world include the Medellin in Columbia, Caracas of Venezuela, La Paz of Bolivia, and Rio de Janeiro in Brazil. Full article here: https://www.15mins.today/blog/539-near-mexico-city-cable-car-lets-commuters-glide-over-traffic Vocabulary and sample sentences: Congestion – being congested (meaning crowded and being unable to move)Traffic congestion in Mexico City has been a problem for many year until they built the Mexcable.My nose is blocked, so I need to use nasal spray to relieve my nasal congestion. Commute – travel regularly between home and work Commuter (person who travel daily to and from work)I commute 1 and a half hours to work everyday.As a commuter, I prefer to take the mrt over the bus. Cramped – feeling uncomfortably confined (difficult to move)When I take the mrt, I prefer to wait for a train that has more space to stand. I dislike being cramped on the train.

------------------------------- 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 本週的《英語咖啡館》John老師和Angel要來聊聊讓人不禁抱怨的「現代趨勢」！當app和會員制度充斥生活，你曾經覺得困擾嗎？這週的討論我們聚焦在「手機會員app氾濫」、「到處掃QR Code」等等讓人哭笑不得的趨勢。John老師抱怨手機裡全都是商家會員app，連整理資料夾都很麻煩；而Angel也分享了在沒有Wi-Fi的狀態下，無法掃QR Code點餐的窘境。在2025年，這些科技真的帶給我們更多便利了嗎？ 本集內容分成兩週播出，下週將會繼續探討更多現代趨勢的另一面。如果你也有類似經驗，歡迎寫信或是到我們的FB/IG分享討論。 This week's episode of English Café features John and Angel discussing some of the "modern trends" that make people want to complain! Have you ever felt annoyed by the overwhelming presence of apps and membership systems in your life? This week, the focus is on trends like the flood of membership apps on your phone and the endless need to scan QR codes—things that can be both amusing and frustrating. This episode will be split into two parts, with the second part exploring another side of modern trends next week. Feel free to write to us or join the discussion on our Facebook or Instagram pages!

------------------------------- 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.K919: 西洋棋冠軍因牛仔褲爭議退賽 Chess Champion Quits Over Jeans Dispute Highlights 主題摘要：Even seemingly minor dress code violations in professional chess can escalate into significant controversies, highlighting the tension between traditional regulations and modern attitudes in the sport.Magnus Carlsen's willingness to withdraw from a major tournament over a dress code dispute demonstrates how personal principles can take precedence over competitive opportunities.The incident sparked a broader debate within the chess community about the balance between maintaining professional standards and allowing for more flexible, contemporary interpretations of tournament rules. In a dramatic turn of events at the FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships in New York, world-renowned chess champion Magnus Carlsen made headlines when he withdrew from the tournament over an unexpected dress code dispute. The Norwegian grandmaster, who has dominated the chess world for years, found himself at odds with tournament officials when he arrived wearing dark jeans paired with a shirt, blazer, and dress shoes. Despite his professional appearance, the outfit violated the tournament's strict dress code regulations, leading to a confrontation that would soon escalate beyond a simple wardrobe issue. Moreover, the seven-time World Blitz Champion had been wearing the jeans due to a prior lunch meeting, unaware that this choice of attire would spark such controversy. 在紐約舉行的世界西洋棋聯合會（FIDE）世界快棋及超快棋錦標賽上，一場戲劇性事件震驚棋壇，世界知名的西洋棋冠軍馬格努斯．卡爾森因一場意外的著裝規範爭議而退賽。這位挪威西洋棋特級大師多年來稱霸棋壇，當他身著深色牛仔褲搭配襯衫、西裝外套和皮鞋出席比賽時，卻與賽事官員發生衝突。儘管他的穿著看似專業，但這套裝扮違反了賽事嚴格的著裝規範，導致一場原本單純的衣著問題逐漸升級。此外，這位七屆世界超快棋冠軍當時是因為先前的午餐會議而穿著牛仔褲，完全沒想到這樣的穿著會引發如此爭議。 The situation reached a critical point when tournament officials approached Carlsen after several rounds, demanding an immediate change of attire. The chess champion offered to modify his outfit for the following day's matches, viewing this as a reasonable compromise given the circumstances. However, this suggestion was deemed insufficient by the organizers, who not only insisted on an immediate change but also imposed a $200 fine. Carlsen, standing firm on his principles, chose to withdraw from the tournament rather than comply with what he perceived as an unreasonable demand. His decision sent shockwaves through the chess community and sparked intense debate about the rigidity of tournament regulations. 當賽事官員在進行數輪比賽後要求卡爾森立即更換服裝時，情況達到了臨界點。這位西洋棋冠軍提出在隔天賽事前更換服裝的折衷方案，認為這是在當時情況下的合理妥協。然而，主辦方不僅否決了這個建議，還要求立即更換服裝並處以 200 美元罰款。卡爾森堅持己見，認為這是一項不合理的要求，最終選擇退出比賽。他的決定在西洋棋界引起軒然大波，也引發了關於賽事規範過於僵化的激烈討論。 The chess federation FIDE defended its position, emphasizing that their dress code regulations are designed to maintain professionalism and ensure fair treatment of all participants. They pointed out that similar rules had been applied to other players, including one who was required to change his shoes on the same day. However, Carlsen's response to the situation reflected his characteristic independence and willingness to challenge established norms, as he later shared a photo of his controversial outfit on social media with the caption "OOTD" (Outfit of the Day). This public display of defiance further intensified the discussion surrounding the incident. 世界西洋棋聯合會為其立場辯護，強調其著裝規範旨在維持專業性並確保所有參賽者受到公平對待。他們指出，同樣的規定也適用於其他選手，包括當天要求一名選手更換鞋子的案例。然而，卡爾森對這種情況的回應展現出他特有的獨立性格和挑戰既定規範的意願，他後來在社群媒體上分享了這套爭議裝扮的照片，並配上「今日穿搭」（OOTD）的說明。這種公開的反抗態度更加激化了圍繞這起事件的討論。 This incident adds another chapter to Carlsen's complex relationship with professional chess organizations. The 34-year-old Norwegian, who became a grandmaster at the remarkably young age of 13, has consistently demonstrated his readiness to stand up for his principles, even at the cost of tournament participation. His decision to withdraw from the championship, where he held both the Blitz and Rapid Chess titles, sparked widespread debate within the chess community about the balance between maintaining professional standards and accommodating personal expression. When asked about potentially appealing the decision, Carlsen dismissed the idea with characteristic frankness, stating he was "too old at this point to care too much." The incident has since become a talking point about the modernization of chess traditions and regulations. 這起事件為卡爾森與職業西洋棋組織之間複雜的關係增添了新篇章。這位 34 歲的挪威棋手在 13 歲就成為特級大師，一直展現出為原則堅持的態度，即使犧牲比賽參賽資格也在所不惜。他退出自己同時擁有超快棋和快棋冠

------------------------------- 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: Restaurants Have Lavish Setups for Outdoor Winter Dining A Latin fusion restaurant in Queens will serve crispy arepa cups and ropa vieja at an outdoor dining chalet with rustic wood beams and sparkling chandeliers. 紐約皇后區一間拉丁無國界料理餐廳，將在有鄉村風木梁和閃亮枝形吊燈的戶外用餐木屋裡，提供杯裝的酥脆玉米餅和燉手撕牛肉。 In the Bronx, an Italian place has winter-proofed its back patio with Plexiglas walls and electric heaters, along with festive vines with pink flowers. 在布朗克斯區，一間義大利餐廳在後院築起塑膠玻璃牆並放上電熱器防寒，同時飾以帶有節慶氣氛的粉紅花朵藤蔓。 And a Manhattan bistro is handing out silver space blankets to shivering diners. 曼哈坦區一家餐酒館還發放銀色太空毯，讓冷得發抖的客人保暖。 A pandemic that has upended much of life in New York is now ushering in something the city has never really tried: dining by snow and ice. Or, as some restaurants are telling customers, the new BYOB is bring your own blanket. 新冠肺炎疫情大大顛覆紐約人的生活，如今又把這座城市從未真正試過的東西引了進來，就是在冰天雪地中用餐，或者就像一些餐廳告訴客人的，「請自帶酒水」變成了「請自備毛毯」。 The explosion of outdoor dining has been a savior for more than 10,000 restaurants and bars that have taken over sidewalks, streets and public spaces to try to keep their businesses afloat. It has been so popular that Mayor Bill de Blasio and the City Council are making outdoor dining permanent. 戶外用餐激增，拯救了紐約逾萬家餐廳和酒吧，這些店家占用人行道、大街和公共空間以求生。戶外用餐大受歡迎，以致市長白思豪和市議會決定讓它合法化。 But year-round dining outside is untested in the city’s bone-chilling winters, and has created daunting challenges for an industry fighting to survive. 不過，戶外用餐還沒接受紐約寒冬的考驗，對奮力求存的餐飲業是可怕的挑戰。 “Are we going to have a mild winter or a harsh one?” said Andrew Rigie, executive director of the New York City Hospitality Alliance, an industry group. “It’s a gamble. With so much uncertainty about the weather and diner behavior, it’s a risk.” 同業團體紐約市餐飲業聯合會主席里吉說：「今年冬天會溫和還是很冷？只能賭一賭。關於天氣和客人行為有這麼多不確定性，這是在冒險。」 While a financial imperative for restaurants, enclosing outdoor areas for winter has raised health concerns as coronavirus cases in New York have started to rise again. Protecting patrons from the elements has led some restaurants to create shelters that lack sufficient ventilation, raising the risk of transmission. 餐廳把戶外用餐區圍起來以免客人受寒，雖然對生意非常重要，卻在紐約新冠病例再度激增之際引發公共衛生疑慮。一些餐廳為保護客人不受惡劣天氣影響而圍出通風不良的區域，提高了疫情傳播的風險。 Outdoor heaters — including propane heaters that had been banned in the city but are now permitted as a way to help restaurants — could also pose fire hazards. 戶外暖爐，包括紐約原本禁用、為幫助餐廳經營而暫且開放使用的丙烷暖爐，還可能引起火災。 Still, with restaurants having few options to make money, New York and other cities are forging ahead with winter outdoor dining.Chicago held a design challenge that drew ideas like a Japanese-style heated table and a modular cabin inspired by ice-fishing huts that fits on a parking spot. 不過，由於餐廳賺錢方式非常有限，紐約等城市仍大力發展冬季戶外用餐。芝加哥辦了場戶外用餐設計比賽，吸引的點子包括：日式暖爐桌和模組小屋，以冰釣小屋為靈感，占地相當於一個停車位。 In New York, the multibillion-dollar restaurant industry, one of the city’s most important economic pillars, has been decimated by the pandemic. Indoor dining has resumed, but at only 25% capacity. 營業額數十億美元的餐館業是紐約經濟支柱，受到疫情重創，雖然已恢復內用，但只能開放25%的座位。 Source article: https://paper.udn.com/udnpaper/POH0067/359491/web/ Next Article Topic: A Scary Energy Winter Is Coming. Don’t Blame the Greens. Every so often the tectonic geopolitical plates that hold up the world economy suddenly shift in ways that can rattle and destabilize everything on the surface. That’s happening right now in the energy sphere. 有時候，承載世界經濟的地緣政治板塊會突然移動，把地表每樣東西搖得嘎嘎作響。這種事現在就在能源領域發生。 Several forces are coming together that could make Vladimir Putin the king of Europe, enable Iran to thumb its nose at America and build an atomic bomb, and disrupt European power markets enough that the upcoming United Nations climate conference in Glasgow, Scotland, could suffer blackouts owing to too little clean energy. 有幾股勢力正在匯聚，能使俄國總統普亭成為歐洲之王，使伊朗有本錢不把美國放在眼裡，進而造出原子彈，並足以打亂歐洲能源市場，讓即將登場的英國蘇格蘭格拉斯哥聯合國氣候大會可能會因為潔淨能源太少而停電。 Yes, this is a big one. 沒錯，問題很大。 Natural gas and coal prices in Europe and Asia just hit their highest levels on record, oil prices in America hit a seven-year high and U.S. gasoline prices are up $1 a gallon from last year. If this winter is as bad as some experts predict — with some in the poor and middle classes unable to heat their homes — I fear we’ll see a populist backlash to the whole climate/green movement. You can already smell that coming in Britain. 歐亞兩洲的天然氣和煤價剛剛達到史上最高，美國原油價格創七年新高，而汽油價格每加侖比去年上漲1美元。如果今年冬天跟一些專家預測的一樣糟，一些貧窮和中產階級人家負擔不起取暖費用，我擔

------------------------------- 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) ------------------------------- 1. Tom Kenny (Voice of SpongeBob SquarePants) Quote: "Voice acting is acting. Acting is acting.Pretending to be someone else is acting, no matter what costume you're wearing - or not wearing." Source: Interview with The A.V. Club, 2012 1. 湯姆·肯尼（海綿寶寶配音） 名言：「配音就是演戲。演戲就是演戲。假裝成為別人就是在演戲，不管你穿著什麼戲服－或者沒穿。」 出處：2012年 A.V.Club訪談 Tom Kenny has voiced SpongeBob SquarePants since 1999,creating one of the most recognizable cartoon voices in television history. Before SpongeBob, he was a stand-up comedian and worked on various animated shows including "Rocko's Modern Life." The voice of SpongeBob was inspired by the voice he used for a minor character in "Rocko's Modern Life." Kenny developed SpongeBob's iconic laugh after creator Stephen Hillenburg requested a laugh that sounded like "a dolphin mixed with a seagull." He records episodes in group sessions with his fellow voice actors to maintain the natural chemistry between characters. Beyond SpongeBob, Kenny has voiced over 1000 characters including the Ice King in "Adventure Time" and the Mayor in "Powerpuff Girls." Despite his success, he still attends voice acting workshops and constantly works on expanding his vocal range. Kenny often visits children's hospitals in character as SpongeBob, bringing joy to sick children. He's won multiple Annie Awards and Emmys for his voice work. 湯姆·肯尼自1999年起為海綿寶寶配音，創造了電視史上最廣為人知的卡通角色聲音之一。在配海綿寶寶之前，他是位單口喜劇演員，也在多部動畫中配音，包括《洛可現代生活》。海綿寶寶的聲音靈感來自他在《洛可現代生活》中為一個小角色配音時的聲線。肯尼根據製作人史蒂芬·希倫伯格要求「像海豚混合海鷗的笑聲」，發展出海綿寶寶標誌性的笑聲。他與其他配音員一起錄製集數，以保持角色間的自然互動。除了海綿寶寶，肯尼還為超過1000個角色配音，包括《探險活寶》的冰霸王和《飛天小女警》的市長。儘管成就斐然，他仍參加配音工作坊，不斷擴展自己的聲域。肯尼經常以海綿寶寶的角色造訪兒童醫院，為病童帶來歡樂。他的配音工作獲得多座安妮獎和艾美獎。 2. Grey DeLisle-Griffin (Voice of Daphne from Scooby-Doo andAzula from Avatar: The Last Airbender) Quote: "The beautiful thing about voice-over is thatyou can play any role, regardless of what you look like. It's about bringing truth to the character." Source: Behind The Voice Actors Interview, 2018 2. 葛雷·德莉絲-葛里芬（史酷比配音的黛芙妮和《降世神通》的阿祖拉配音） 名言：「配音最美的地方在於你可以演任何角色，不受外表限制。關鍵是為角色注入真實感。」 出處：2018年配音演員幕後訪談 Grey DeLisle-Griffin began her career as a stand-up comedianand singer before becoming one of the most prolific voice actresses in animation. She has voiced over 1500 characters, earning her a place in the Guinness World Records. Her breakthrough came when she replaced Mary Kay Bergman as the voice of Daphne in the Scooby-Doo franchise after Bergman's passing. DeLisle-Griffin is known for her incredible vocal range, able to voice both young boys and elderly women convincingly. She prepares for roles by creating detailed backstories for her characters, even if they're not in the script. In addition to voice acting, she's a trained singer and has released several folk music albums. She regularly teaches voice acting workshops, emphasizing theimportance of authenticity in performance. What many don't know is that she started by doing impression shows at retirement homes, which helped her develop her wide range of voices. 葛雷·德莉絲-葛里芬在成為最多產的動畫配音女演員之前，是位單口喜劇演員和歌手。她為超過1500個角色配音，因此獲得金氏世界紀錄認證。她的突破是在瑪莉·凱·柏格曼過世後，接替她在史酷比系列中配音黛芙妮。德莉絲-葛里芬以驚人的聲域著稱，能同時令人信服地為小男孩和老婦人配音。她會為角色創造詳細的背景故事來準備角色，即使劇本中沒有提到。除了配音，她還是受過訓練的歌手，發行過幾張民謠專輯。她定期教授配音工作坊，強調表演真實性的重要。鮮為人知的是，她最初在養老院表演模仿秀，這幫助她發展出多樣的聲音。 3. Nancy Cartwright (Voice of Bart Simpson) Quote: "Don't let anyone tell you that you can't dosomething just because they couldn't do it." Source: Her 2000 autobiography "My Life as a10-Year-Old Boy" 3. 南西·卡特萊特（霸子配音） 名言：「別讓任何人告訴你做不到什麼，只因為他們做不到。」 出處：2000年自傳《我的十歲男孩人生》 Nancy Cartwright originally auditioned for the role of LisaSimpson but felt more connected to Bart's character during the audition. She has voiced Bart and other characters on "The Simpsons" since 1989, making it the longest-running role in animation history. Before The Simpsons, she was mentored by Daws Butler, the voice of Yogi Bear and many Hanna-Barbera characters. Cartwright spent time studying Warner Bros. cartoons and practicing voices while working at a radio station in Ohio. She can switch between her various Simpsons characters (including Nelson Muntz and Ralph Wiggum) in rapid succession during recording sessions. Despite voicing a boy for over 30 years, she says she's never tired of the role because Bart's character continues to evolve. She wrote her autobiography to inspire others who dream of voice acting careers. Cartwrig

------------------------------- 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 discusses the phenomenon of public wiring on utility poles and hanging off buildings across the world and how in some countries it is very dangerous and very unorganized, creating hairballs of wires. Full article here: https://www.15mins.today/blog/541-what-a-tangled-web-we-weave Vocabulary and sample sentences: Hairball- a collection of hair or fur formed in the stomach of animals and even sometimes in humans,Do cats commonly get hairballs?Yes, cats do commonly get hairballs.Are hairballs disgusting? Yes, hairballs are disgusting. Insouciant - not being worried about anythingAre you an insouciant person?No, I am not an insouciant person.Do cats exude an air of insouciance? Yes, cats do exude an air of insouciance. Hapless - unlucky or unfortunateWas Peter the hapless victim of fate?Yes, Peter was the hapless victim of fate.Is not winning the lottery the hapless fate of most people? Yes, not winning the lottery is the hapless fate of most people. Gordian knot(tangle)- a very difficult or impossible task or problem From the legend in which King Gordius tied a very complicated knot and said that whoever undid it would become the ruler of Asia. Alexander the Great cut through the knot with his sword.Is balancing work and life a Gordian knot?Yes, balancing work and life is like a Gordian knot.Is life filled with Gordian knots? Life is filled with baby Gordian knots.

------------------------------- 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) ------------------------------- 本週的《英語咖啡館》是2025英語時光機的第一集，Patrick 老師和 John 老師帶來一個很有"年味"的話題：「蠟燭」。 大家可能會想，蠟燭跟過年有什麼關係呢？原來蠟燭不只是照明工具，更是節慶、信仰與生活品味的象徵。從古埃及的照明蠟燭、中國傳統的拜拜紅蠟燭，到現代奢華的香氛蠟燭，兩位老師今天要來聊聊蠟燭，帶大家看見它的多元面貌。 現代人生活忙碌，John 老師特別分享了一個idiom：「stop and smell the roses」，提醒我們在繁忙中別忘了停下腳步，感受生活中的美好。 This week's episode of English Cafe kicks off the first episode of 2025 Patrick and John's - English Time Machine. Patrick and I will bring you a topic full of "New Year vibes": candles. You might wonder, what do candles have to do with the New Year? It turns out that candles are not just tools for lighting but also symbols of celebration, faith, and lifestyle. From the lighting candles of ancient Egypt and the traditional red candles used in Chinese rituals to the luxurious scented candles of modern times, the two teachers explore the diverse aspects of candles in this episode. In today's fast-paced world, I want to share a special idiom: "stop and smell the roses", that reminds us not to forget to slow down and appreciate the little things in life.

------------------------------- 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.K915: Japanese Auto Giants Unite to Challenge China's EV Dominance Highlights 主題摘要：The merger between Honda and Nissan is primarily driven by the need to compete with Chinese automakers' dominance in the electric vehicle market, with a critical deadline of establishing competitiveness by 2030.Nissan's financial struggles, including a 94% profit drop and 9,000 job cuts, make this merger particularly crucial for its survival, as the company faces significant debt payments coming due in 2026.While the merged entity would become the world's third-largest automaker behind Toyota and Volkswagen, historical challenges in automotive mergers and potential cultural differences pose significant risks to its success. In a groundbreaking development for the global automotive industry, Japanese car manufacturers Honda and Nissan have announced plans to merge their operations, potentially creating the world's third-largest automaker. This strategic move, which also includes Mitsubishi, aims to strengthen their position against the rising dominance of Chinese competitors in the electric vehicle market. The merger talks, scheduled over the next six months, represent a significant shift in the automotive landscape and highlight the increasing pressure on traditional car manufacturers to adapt to changing market dynamics. With combined resources and expertise, the merged entity would trail only Toyota and Volkswagen in global sales volume. 在全球汽車產業的一個突破性發展中，日本汽車製造商本田（Honda）和日產（Nissan）宣布計劃合併營運，有望成為全球第三大汽車製造商。這項策略性行動也包含三菱（Mitsubishi），旨在加強其對抗中國競爭者在電動車市場日益增長的主導地位。合併談判將為期六個月，代表著汽車產業版圖的重大轉變，並凸顯傳統汽車製造商面臨適應市場動態變化的壓力。憑藉合併後的資源與專業知識，這個新實體的全球銷售量將僅次於豐田（Toyota）和福斯（Volkswagen）。 The driving force behind this historic alliance is the urgent need to compete with Chinese automakers, who have rapidly gained market share in the electric vehicle sector. Honda's CEO, Toshihiro Mibe, emphasized that without establishing a robust strategy by 2030, Japanese manufacturers risk losing their competitive edge. The combined annual sales of Honda and Nissan exceed $191 billion, demonstrating the substantial scale of this potential merger. This consolidation would provide the companies with shared resources and enhanced capabilities to develop advanced electric vehicle technologies, crucial for maintaining their market presence. The merger also represents a strategic response to the Chinese automotive industry's advantages in manufacturing costs and pricing flexibility. 促使這個歷史性聯盟的驅動力，是與中國汽車製造商競爭的迫切需求，因為中國在電動車領域的市占率正快速成長。本田執行長三部敏宏（Toshihiro Mibe）強調，若不能在 2030 年前建立穩健的策略，日本製造商恐將失去競爭優勢。本田和日產的年度合併銷售額超過 1,910 億美元，展現了這項潛在合併案的龐大規模。這次整併將為這些公司提供共享資源和增強開發先進電動車技術的能力，這對維持市場地位至關重要。這次合併也代表了對中國汽車產業在製造成本和價格彈性優勢的策略性回應。 The timing of this merger is particularly significant for Nissan, which has faced considerable challenges in recent years. The company's profits have declined dramatically, leading to an announcement of 9,000 job cuts and a 20% reduction in manufacturing output. These difficulties stem partly from the aftermath of former CEO Carlos Ghosn's controversial departure and the subsequent dissolution of its alliance with Renault. Industry analysts suggest that without this merger, Nissan might face severe financial difficulties by 2026, when significant debt payments come due. The partnership with Honda could provide the stability and resources necessary for Nissan's long-term survival in an increasingly competitive market. 這次合併的時機對日產特別重要，因為該公司近年來面臨重大挑戰。公司利潤大幅下降，導致宣布裁員 9,000 人，並減少 20% 的製造產能。這些困境部分源於前執行長戈恩（Carlos Ghosn）爭議性離職的後續影響，以及與雷諾（Renault）結盟的解散。產業分析師指出，若沒有這次合併，日產可能在 2026 年面臨嚴重的財務困境，因為屆時將有大筆債務到期。與本田的合作夥伴關係可能為日產在日益競爭的市場中提供長期生存所需的穩定性和資源。 The proposed merger, however, faces several challenges and uncertainties. Historical precedents in the automotive industry show that mergers don't always succeed, as demonstrated by past failures like the Daimler-Chrysler partnership. Additionally, the deal must navigate complex regulatory approvals and potential cultural differences between the companies. Despite these challenges, industry experts, including Morgan Stanley analyst Adam Jonas, suggest that this consolidation trend might continue throughout the automotive sector. The increasing costs of developing electric vehicles and the need to achieve economies of scale make such partnerships increasingly attractive for traditional automakers seeking to remain competitive in 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 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) ------------------------------- Topic: France bans plastic packaging for fruit and veg A law banning plastic packaging for large numbers of fruits and vegetables has come into force in France as of New Year’s Day, to end what the government has called the “aberration” of overwrapped carrots, apples and bananas, as environmental campaigners and exasperated shoppers urged other countries to do the same. 法國一項於元旦生效的法律，禁止多種水果及蔬菜以塑膠包裝，讓政府所說的胡蘿蔔、蘋果與香蕉過度包裝的「脫軌現象」畫下句點。環保人士與惱怒的顧客也敦促其他國家採取同樣的措施。 Emmanuel Macron has called the ban on plastic packaging of fresh produce “a real revolution” and said France was taking the lead globally with its law to gradually phase out all single-use plastics by 2040. 法國總統艾曼紐‧馬克宏將生鮮蔬果的塑膠包裝禁令稱為「一場真正的革命」，他說法國領先全球制定了法律，要在二○四○年前逐步淘汰所有的一次性塑膠。 Spain will introduce a ban on plastic packaging of fruit and vegetables from 2023. For years, international campaigners have said unnecessary plastic packaging is causing environmental damage and pollution at sea. 西班牙將從二○二三年起，禁止使用塑膠包裝水果及蔬菜。國際倡議人士多年來不斷表示，不必要的塑膠包裝正造成環境破壞及海洋污染。 From New Year’s Day, France bans supermarkets and other shops from selling cucumbers wrapped in plastic, and peppers, courgettes, aubergines and leeks in plastic packaging. A total of 30 types of fruit and vegetables are banned from having any plastic wrapping, including bananas, pears, lemons, oranges and kiwis. 法國自元旦起禁止超市等商店銷售以塑膠包裹的黃瓜，以及用塑膠包裝的甜椒、櫛瓜、茄子與韭蔥。禁止使用任何塑膠包裝的共有三十種水果及蔬菜，包括香蕉、梨子、檸檬、柳橙與奇異果。 Packs over 1.5kg are exempt, as well as chopped or processed fruit. Some varieties, including cherry tomatoes or soft fruits such as raspberries and blueberries, are given longer for producers to find alternatives to plastic, but plastic packaging will be gradually phased out for all whole fruits and vegetables by 2026. 一點五公斤裝以上的蔬果，以及切成小塊或加工過的水果，則不受此限塑令規範。一些品種，包括櫻桃番茄，或是軟水果例如覆盆子及藍莓，其生產商可有較多的時間尋找塑膠替代品，但到了二○二六年，所有水果及蔬菜的塑膠包裝都將逐步淘汰。 With an estimated 37 percent of fruit and vegetables sold wrapped in plastic packaging in France in 2021, the government believes the ban will cut more than 1bn items of single-use plastic packaging a year. The environment ministry said there must be curbs on the “outrageous amount of single-use plastic in our daily lives.” 二○二一年在法國販售的水果及蔬菜，有百分之三十七是以塑膠包裝；法國政府據此估計，此禁塑令每年將減少十億件以上的一次性塑膠包裝。法國環境部表示，「我們日常生活中對一次性塑膠毫無節制的使用」必須加以約束。 Fruit and vegetables wrapped in layers of plastic have exasperated consumers not only in France but neighboring countries. Nearly three-quarters of British people have experienced “anxiety, frustration or hopelessness” at the amount of plastic that comes with their shopping and 59 percent think supermarkets and brands are not doing enough to offer refillable, reusable or packaging-free products, according to a poll commissioned by Friends of the Earth and City to Sea in June last year. 將水果及蔬菜以塑膠層層包裹，惹惱的不只是法國人，還有鄰近國家的消費者。去年六月由環保組織「地球之友」與「城市至海」所委託進行的一項民意調查發現，近四分之三的英國人對購物時用到的塑膠數量感到「焦慮、無力或絕望」，百分之五十九的人認為超市及品牌在提供可填充、可重複使用或無包裝產品方面做得不夠。Source Article: https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/lang/archives/2022/01/11/2003771107 Next Article Topic: Daily bananas intake good, but not for kidney failure patients Bananas are one of the most commonly seen and eaten fruits. Eating bananas brings many benefits, such as replenishing energy and lowering blood pressure, and can even improve your mood. There is a rumor going around online that you should not eat bananas every day because they are a high-potassium food that can damage your kidneys if you eat too many, but the Health Promotion Administration (HPA) says only people with impaired kidney function have a metabolic deficiency that compels them to avoid eating bananas every day. 香蕉是平日最常見、又最常吃的水果之一。吃香蕉有很多好處，像是補充體力、降血壓、甚至能讓心情變好，而網傳香蕉是高鉀食物，吃多了會傷腎，不能天天吃；國民健康署表示，只有腎臟功能不全的人，因代謝功能不足，才不能天天吃。 Bananas are classified as a medium-potassium food, containing about 325 milligrams of potassium per 100 grams of banana flesh, or about 200 to 399 milligrams of potassium per serving (half a large banana or a whole small one). Research shows that bananas can regulate bowel movements, relieve depression, reduce oxidation, lower blood pressure, promote cardiovascular health and prevent stroke, among other things. 香蕉屬於中量鉀食物，每一百公克香蕉果肉，約含鉀三百二十五毫克，每份（大的半根，小的一根）約含鉀量兩百到三百九十九毫克。實證研究指出，香蕉能夠潤腸通便、解鬱、抗氧化、降血壓、促進心血管健康及防止中風等。 According to the HPA, for people with normal kidney function, consuming plenty of potassium ions from bananas or oth

------------------------------- 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) ------------------------------- 1. Robin Williams (Voice of Genie in "Aladdin") Quote: "No matter what people tell you, words and ideascan change the world." Source: From his 1996 commencement speech at Boston University 1. 羅賓·威廉斯（迪士尼《阿拉丁》精靈配音） 名言：「不管別人怎麼說，文字和想法都能改變世界。」 出處：1996年波士頓大學畢業典禮演說 Robin Williams revolutionized voice acting in animation withhis role as Genie in Disney's "Aladdin" (1992). Before his involvement, voice actors typically stuck strictly to the script, but Williams improvised over 16 hours of material for Genie, with only a fraction making it into the final film. His work changed how animation studios approached voice acting, leading to more improvisational freedom. Williams initially took the role for $75,000 (far below his usual fee) but had conditions: his voice couldn't be used for merchandise and Genie couldn't take up more than 25% of advertising. When Disney broke these conditions, Williams refused to return for the direct-to-video sequel. He later reconciled with Disney after receiving an apology and a Pablo Picasso painting. The role earned him a Special Golden Globe Award. Despite his massive success, Williams continued to visit children's hospitals in character as Genie, showing his dedication to bringing joy to others. His work demonstrated how voice acting could be just as dynamic and creative as live-action performance. 羅賓·威廉斯在1992年迪士尼動畫《阿拉丁》中為精靈配音時，徹底改變了動畫配音的形式。在他之前，配音員通常嚴格遵照劇本，但威廉斯為精靈即興創作了超過16小時的內容，最後只有一小部分被採用在電影中。他的工作改變了動畫製作公司對配音的態度，帶來更多即興發揮的空間。威廉斯最初只收了7.5萬美元（遠低於他的一般片酬）接下這個角色，但有條件：他的聲音不能用於商品，精靈的形象在廣告中不能超過25%。當迪士尼違反這些條件時，威廉斯拒絕為直接發行影片的續集配音。後來在收到道歉和一幅畢卡索畫作後，他與迪士尼和解。這個角色為他贏得特別金球獎。儘管大獲成功，威廉斯仍持續以精靈的角色造訪兒童醫院，展現他為他人帶來歡樂的熱忱。他的工作證明配音演出可以和實景表演一樣充滿活力和創意。 2. Jim Cummings (Voice of Winnie the Pooh and Tigger) Quote: "Never give up. Never stop believing in yourselfand your abilities. You never know who might be looking up to you." Source: Interview with Animation World Network, 2011 名言：「永不放棄。永遠相信自己和自己的能力。你永遠不知道誰可能正在以你為榜樣。」 出處：2011年動畫世界網路訪談 Jim Cummings has voiced over 400 characters across hiscareer, including Disney's Winnie the Pooh and Tigger since 1988. He began his career doing radio commercials and working at Disneyland. What many don't know is that he would use his voice talents to call sick children in hospitals as their favorite characters, particularly during the holidays. Cummings is known for his incredible versatility – he can seamlessly switch between characters mid-conversation. He took over both Pooh and Tigger from the legendary Sterling Holloway and Paul Winchell, respectively, becoming the first person to voice both characters regularly. His dedication to maintaining the legacy of these beloved characters while adding his own touch has earned him multiple Annie Awards. Despite his success, Cummings still attends voice acting workshops to continue improving his craft. He's known in the industry for helping new voice actors, often providing mentorship and encouragement to those starting their careers. 吉姆·卡明斯在其職業生涯中配音超過400個角色，從1988年起為迪士尼的小熊維尼和跳跳虎配音。他的職業生涯始於廣播廣告和在迪士尼樂園工作。鮮為人知的是，他會用角色的聲音打電話給住院的病童，特別是在節慶期間。卡明斯以其驚人的多變性聞名－他能在對話中無縫切換不同角色。他分別接替了傳奇配音員史特林·哈洛威和保羅·溫切爾，成為第一個同時固定為維尼和跳跳虎配音的人。他在保持這些深受喜愛角色傳統的同時也加入自己的特色，因此贏得多座安妮獎。儘管成就斐然，卡明斯仍參加配音工作坊持續精進。他在業界以幫助新進配音員聞名，經常為剛起步的後輩提供指導和鼓勵。 3. June Foray (Voice of Rocky from "Rocky andBullwinkle") Quote: "If you love what you do, you never work a dayin your life - that's why I'm still working." Source: From her 2009 Television Academy Foundation Interview 3. 瓊·弗雷（《洛基與巴維》中洛基配音） 名言：「如果你熱愛你的工作，你就永遠不會覺得在工作－這就是為什麼我還在繼續工作。」 出處：2009年電視學院基金會訪談 Known as the "First Lady of Voice Acting," JuneForay's career spanned nearly 80 years. Born in 1917, she began voice acting on radio at age 12. Beyond Rocky the Flying Squirrel, she voiced Natasha Fatale, Nell Fenwick, and thousands of other characters. Foray was instrumental in creating the Annie Awards and pushing for animation to be recognized by the Academy Awards. She fought for voice actors to receive proper credit and compensation when most were uncredited. Despite working well into her 90s, she continued to take voice acting classes, believing that one should never stop learning. In 1995, ASIFA-Hollywood created the June Foray Award to recognize individuals who made significant contributions to animation. She was its first recipient. Walt Disney personally sought her out to voice Lucifer 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) ------------------------------- Summary: In this article it is discussed how Japan is trying “clean up” its image by removing porn magazines from convenience stores ahead of the upcoming Olympics. Full article here: https://www.15mins.today/blog/535-japanese-chains-scrap-porn-magazines Vocabulary and sample sentences: Chain Stores - a shop/store that is one of a series of similar/same stores owned by the same companyDoes Welcome operate a series of chain stores in Taiwan?Yes, Welcome operates a series of chain stores in Taiwan.Are chain stores very popular globally?Yes, chain stores are very popular globally. Impression- an idea of feeling or an opinion that you get about somebody/something or that somebody/something gives youDo Apple products give us the impression that they use quality materials?Yes, Apple products do give us the impression that they use quality materials.Are your clothes important to make a good impression? Yes, clothes are important to make a good impression. Non-profit - without the aim of making a profitAre non-profit organizations important to society?Yes, non-profits are important to society.Should we support non-profit organizations by giving them donations? Yes, we should support non-profit organizations by giving them donations.

------------------------------- 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 英語咖啡館! In this special New Year’s Day episode, Klim and I take you on a journey around the world to uncover fascinating food traditions tied to the start of the year. We begin with the Southern U.S. dish Hopping John, a symbol of good luck, then move to Spain, where the midnight tradition of eating 12 grapes promises prosperity. Our exploration continues in Japan, where Toshikoshi Soba and zoni celebrate longevity and renewal with their rich cultural meanings. Whether you’re enjoying your family’s favorite dishes or curious to try something new, join us in celebrating how food brings people together across the globe. Happy 2025! 歡迎來到英語咖啡館！在這個特別的新年第一天，醬老師與Klim 將帶你環遊世界，發掘與新年相關的有趣飲食傳統。 我們從美國南部象徵好運的料理 Hopping John 開始，接著來到西班牙，了解午夜食用 12 顆葡萄祈求繁榮的習俗。最後，我們抵達日本，探索跨年蕎麥麵和雜煮這兩道美食背後的深刻文化意涵，慶祝長壽與更新。 無論您是在品嚐家人最愛的菜餚，還是對新口味充滿好奇，歡迎加入我們，一同慶祝食物如何連結全球人心。2025 新年快樂！

------------------------------- 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.K911: Digital Brain Rot: Society's New Pandemic Highlights 主題摘要：Despite being popularized by modern digital culture, "brain rot" has historical roots dating back to 1854, demonstrating how age-old concerns about mental deterioration remain relevant in today's digital age.The term has gained significant traction, particularly among younger generations who ironically are both the primary creators and consumers of the content they criticize through this expression.The selection of "brain rot" as Word of the Year reflects broader societal anxieties about digital overconsumption and its potential impact on mental well-being in our increasingly online world. In a revealing reflection of our modern digital habits, "brain rot" has emerged as Oxford's Word of the Year for 2024. This term, which garnered significant attention through a public vote involving over 37,000 participants, describes the perceived mental deterioration resulting from excessive consumption of trivial online content. The phrase captured a growing societal concern about the impacts of mindless social media scrolling and the endless stream of low-quality digital content that dominates many people's daily screen time. The selection process, overseen by a panel of experts including renowned lexicographer Susie Dent, considered both public opinion and broader cultural implications. 在反映現代數位習慣的過程中，「大腦腐蝕」（brain rot）一詞脫穎而出，成為牛津字典 2024 年度詞彙。這個透過超過 37,000 名參與者公開投票而備受矚目的詞彙，描述了因過度攝取瑣碎的網路內容而導致的心智衰退現象。這個詞彙捕捉到社會對無意識社群媒體洗版，以及充斥人們日常螢幕時間的低品質數位內容所產生影響的日益關注。由知名詞典編纂學家蘇西・登特（Susie Dent）等專家小組監督的遴選過程，同時考量了公眾意見和更廣泛的文化影響。 Interestingly, while "brain rot" may seem like a modern creation born from our digital age, its origins date back to 1854 when Henry David Thoreau first used it in his seminal work "Walden." The term has evolved significantly since then, finding new relevance in today's context where Generation Z and Alpha communities have embraced it to describe their own experiences with social media overconsumption. The selection of this phrase reflects a broader cultural conversation about the intersection of humanity and technology, particularly regarding how we spend our leisure time online. Oxford Languages president Casper Grathwohl noted the significance of younger generations adopting this term, despite being the primary creators and consumers of the content it criticizes. 有趣的是，雖然「大腦腐蝕」看似源自數位時代的現代產物，但其起源可追溯至 1854 年，亨利・大衛・梭羅（Henry David Thoreau）在其開創性著作《湖濱散記》（Walden）中首次使用。這個詞彙自此經歷重大演變，在當今 Z 世代和 Alpha 世代社群用以描述他們過度使用社群媒體的經驗時，找到了新的關聯性。這個詞彙的選擇反映了關於人性與科技交匯的更廣泛文化對話，特別是關於我們如何在線上度過閒暇時光。牛津語言（Oxford Languages）總裁卡斯珀・葛拉斯沃（Casper Grathwohl）指出年輕世代採用這個詞彙的重要性，儘管他們是這些被批評內容的主要創作者和消費者。 The shortlist for Word of the Year included several other noteworthy contenders that equally reflected current cultural trends. Among them were "demure," which gained popularity through social media discussions about reserved behavior; "dynamic pricing," describing the practice of adjusting prices based on demand; and "romantasy," an emerging genre blending romance with fantasy elements. Also notable was the inclusion of "slop," referring to low-quality AI-generated content, and "lore," describing the collective knowledge and background information about specific topics. These candidates collectively highlight the diverse ways in which digital culture continues to shape our language and social discourse. 年度詞彙入圍名單包含數個同樣反映當前文化趨勢的重要競爭者。其中包括透過社群媒體討論內向行為而獲得歡迎的「端莊」（demure）、描述根據需求調整價格做法的「動態定價」（dynamic pricing），以及融合浪漫與奇幻元素的新興類型「浪漫奇幻」（romantasy）。同樣值得注意的還包括指稱低品質 AI 生成內容的「劣質品」（slop），以及描述特定主題之集體知識與背景資訊的「傳說」（lore）。這些候選詞彙共同突顯了數位文化持續塑造我們語言和社會論述的多元方式。 This choice of "brain rot" as Word of the Year stands alongside other significant linguistic selections across the dictionary landscape. Cambridge Dictionary chose "manifest" as their word of the year, reflecting the wellness trend of visualizing desired outcomes, while Collins Dictionary selected "brat," inspired by Charli XCX's influential album. Dictionary.com opted for "demure," following a viral TikTok trend about mindful behavior. These selections collectively paint a picture of a society grappling with digital influence, personal development, and the evolving nature of online communication, while highlighting the growing impact of social media on language and cultural trends. The term "brain rot" represents not just a linguistic trend, but a broader societ

------------------------------- 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: Maybe This Time, the Bikes Won’t End Up in the River In 2013, Rome pulled the plug on its bike share program after it ran out of money and cars kept double-parking in front of its bike racks. Last year, a Hong Kong company gave up after many of its green bicycles ended up in the Tiber river. Months later, a Singapore company bailed after Romans stole the yellow bikes and broke them down for parts. 2013年，由於經費用盡，加上老有汽車並排停在單車架前，羅馬終止了單車共享計畫。去年，在旗下許多綠色自行車落得葬身台伯河的下場後，一家香港公司打了退堂鼓。數月後，一家新加坡公司在羅馬人偷走其黃色單車並拆解拿走零件後，也離開了。 Rome has been a bike share wasteland, but Uber says things will be different for the shiny new red bikes it has introduced all over the city. 羅馬一直是單車共享難以生存的荒原，但優步宣稱，它在全市推出的閃亮紅色新單車會讓情況改觀。 “We’ve tested ours on Rome’s cobblestones,” said Michele Biggi, manager of Uber’s Jump electric-bike program in southwestern Europe, who added that previous competitors’ bikes weren’t up to the city’s demands and “could have fallen down with just a gust of wind.” 優步南歐地區Jump電單車計畫經理米歇爾．畢吉說：「我們已在羅馬的鵝卵石街道上做過測試」，並指以前競爭對手的單車未達到城市的要求，「可能光是一陣風吹過就倒下了」。 He has big plans for the Uber bikes, he said, which “will change Rome and give the city a new lifeblood.” 他說，他為優步單車制定宏偉計畫，這「將改變羅馬且給這座城市注入新的生命力」。 Uber and its competitors have already introduced similar pedal-assisted bikes and electric scooters in Paris; London; Lisbon, Portugal; Brussels and other cities that in several cases are overrun with rolling menaces. (Anne Hidalgo, the mayor of Paris, has decried “the scooter anarchy.”) But Rome, the first Italian city to get Uber’s electric-bicycle service, is not any other European city. 優步及其競爭對手已在巴黎、倫敦、里斯本、布魯塞爾及其他城市推出類似的助力單車和電動滑板車，而其中有些城市狀況連連。（巴黎市長安妮．伊達戈曾譴責「滑板車無政府狀態」）。然而，第一個獲得優步電動自行車服務的義大利城市羅馬，可不是任何其他歐洲城市。 Rome could be a bike-share dream in one respect: There is no shortage of demand. The city has only two finished subway lines (a third is perennially under construction), and buses come late, fail to show up and occasionally explode. 從某方面來說，羅馬可以成為共享單車的夢幻國度：不乏需求。該市只有兩條完工的地鐵線路（第三條一直在興建中），而公車則會晚點、不出現，偶爾還會爆炸。 Driving on the city’s notoriously clogged streets is a nightmare. Parking is worse. 在這個城市塞到爆的街道上開車有如噩夢一場，找地方停車更會要了老命。 But the obstacles to a bike share program are daunting: Rome’s infamous potholes, its mounds of uncollected trash, double-parked cars, a strong vandal spirit in place since the actual Vandals sacked Rome, and a local resistance to change and physical exertion. Rome’s embattled mayor, Virginia Raggi, urged Romans to show that the city is civilized after all. 但單車共享計畫遇到的阻礙也令人生畏：羅馬惡名昭彰的路面坑窪、成堆待收的垃圾、並排停放的汽車、自真正的汪達爾人洗劫羅馬以來就一直存在的強烈破壞精神，以及當地人對改變和體力消耗的抗拒。陷入困境的羅馬市長拉吉敦促羅馬市民，以行動證明這座城市畢竟是文明的。 “If we don’t want these bikes to be badly treated, guess who it is up to?” Raggi said at the Uber bikes’ unveiling Oct. 21. “Romans themselves are the first defense against degradation.” 拉吉10月21日在優步單車發布會上說：「如果我們不希望這些單車受到虐待，猜猜要靠誰呢？羅馬人自己是抵禦毀壞的第一道防線。」 The company is introducing a fleet of 2,800 bicycles that can be left practically anywhere, and they seem to be everywhere. 該公司正推出總數2800輛的自行車隊，使用後幾乎隨處皆可停放，而它們也似乎無所不在。 But not all Romans are fans. “Rome Is Gross” a well-known social media feed decrying the city’s degradation, has posted complaints about the high price of the Uber bikes, which cost 50 cents to unlock and then 20 cents for every minute of use. That is about the rate charged by car-sharing services. 但並非所有羅馬人都很喜歡。譴責城市退化的著名社交媒體消息「羅馬讓人噁心」抱怨優步單車收費高昂，解鎖價格為50美分，每用一分鐘收費20美分，這跟汽車共享服務費率差不多。 Source article: https://paper.udn.com/udnpaper/POH0067/347676/web/#2L-16028705L Next Article Topic : Bike-promoting Belgian minister finds own cycle stolen A Belgian minister arrived by bike to a news conference to promote cycling on Tuesday, only to find it had been stolen when he left half an hour later. 週二，比利時一位部長為了推廣騎自行車，騎單車至新聞發佈會現場，半小時後離開，卻發現自己的單車被偷了。 Ben Weyts, minister of mobility for the Dutch-speaking region of Flanders, unveiled a plan to invest 300 million euros （$320 million） in cycle lanes until 2019, as part of a wider program to promote alternative modes of transport. 班．維茨，荷語法蘭德斯區的交通部長，推出一項斥資3億歐元（3億2000萬美元）在2019年前興建自行車專用道的計畫，作為範圍更廣泛的推廣替代性交通模式的一部分。 "We left the bike in racks at the station and locked it," a spokesman for the minister said. "When we got back half an hour later, it was gone." 「我們把單車停在停車架上，還上了鎖，」該位部長的發言人說。「當我們半小時後回來，車就沒了。」 While Belgium is a country obsessed with cycling as a sport, cars are the main method of commuting to wo

------------------------------- 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老師和阿鍵老師來進行2024年的最後一集Teacher's Lounge。 展望2025年，我們計劃推出全新的節目單元，再讓通勤家族們可以在提升面對不同國境與國外朋友的應對，也會持續的帶來更多有趣的多元觀點的英語咖啡館。再來我們會加入Voice memo，讓家族們可以來語音留言！鼓勵大家來積極留言、參與節目，並鼓勵大家分享想法，一起成長進步。 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: For 17 years, President Erdogan of Turkey has improved trade and military power and raised living standards through Economic growth. However in 2016, after a failed coup de tat against President Erdogan, he tightened his control of the country and the military power. In the past few years, Turkey’s economy and the currency, Lira, collapsed. As a result, people lost confidence in the government and began to leave the country in mass. In 2016, 178,000 people emigrated, and over 250,000 people emigrated in 2017. Full article here: https://www.15mins.today/blog/527-spurning-erdogan-s-vision-turks-leave-in-droves-draining-money Vocabulary and sample sentences: 1. Coup d’etat/coup - violent seizure of power from a governmentMilitary leaders tried to overthrow President Erdogan with a coup in 2016. 2. Brain drain / exodus - immigration of talented peopleThe collapse of the Turkey economy and political instability is causing a brain drain in the country.The exodus in Turkey is adding to its economic collapse.  3. Deteriorate v. - become worseThe economic situation in Turkey deteriorated after the coup. 

------------------------------- 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