#Customized Learning App for Students

[newsepick]

Discover the Journey and Vision behind Newsepick - A Customized Learning App Discover the vision & inspiration behind Newsepick. Know how a simple dinner table conversation transformed into an idea for a dynamic platform that can accelerate the reading & learning capabilities Read More : https://newsepick.com/company/the-idea-that-became-newsepick

[dedalvs]

hey friend, i know you’ve been a pretty serious supporter and user of duolingo for a long time (so have i!), so i’m curious what your feeling is about the announcement that they’re going to be doubling down on using more and more AI for content creation, including using it to avoid having to hire actual humans?

personally, i’m really disappointed - i’ve disliked how much they’ve been using it so far, but the app is otherwise a great tool, and all of the other apps seem to use it, too, so it’s not easy to just jump ship to an app that isn’t using AI. i’ve seen a lot of responses that are like “hurr hurr just use a textbook idiot” which i find really unhelpful; learning from an app is easier and a lot more convenient in a lot of ways than having to use analog materials, especially if you study a high number of languages. still, i don’t ethically feel that i can keep giving them money if this is the direction they’re going.

what are your thoughts?

This is going to be a longer answer than you might have expected.

In 2001, fellow undergrad. Reiko Kataoka (now a professor at San Jose State) resurrected a club that had been dead for a few years at UC Berkeley linguistics: The Society of Linguistics Undergraduates (SLUG). One of its former undergraduate members, Alan Yu (now a professor at the University of Chicago), happened to be a graduate student at Berkeley at the time, so he helped her get it off the ground. The club was exactly what I was looking for at that time: a group for ling. undergrads. to get together and talk about language and linguistics, my new favorite thing. It was great! I even put together a couple phonology problems using my conlangs to distribute at a meeting. The following year I became the second president of the new SLUG and helped to create the SLUG Undergraduate Linguistics Symposium, where I gave my first talk on language creation. Being a part of this club was a major factor in shaping my undergraduate experience at Berkeley.

When I graduated I went to UC San Diego to pursue a graduate degree in linguistics. Part of the reason I chose UCSD was because it was an incredibly inviting atmosphere. Before we accepted they paid for prospective undergraduates down to San Diego and housed them with current grad. students who told them about the program and took them out for dinner, etc. It allowed prospective students to ask questions they wouldn't ask of professors (e.g. who's got beef with who). It was really cool, and so in our second year, we continued the tradition of housing prospective grad. students. Since we both went to Berkeley, my ex-wife (also a Berkeley ling. grad.) and I hosted Klinton Bicknell.

Klinton, it turns out, was the current president of SLUG. I didn't know him while I was at Cal, but we did overlap. It turns out he had renamed the club SLUGS, which I thought was weird. He said "It happened organically" and laughed in an off-putting way. He very much gave off the impression of someone who will smile at you and say whatever is necessary for you to go away. Klinton ended up going to UCSD the following year and I ended up leaving the following year.

Fast forward to 2016. HBO had put the kibosh on Living Language Valyrian, and so I turned to Duolingo. They had previously reached out about putting together a Dothraki course, but I declined, due to having a book out, Living Language Dothraki. With no hope for Valyrian, I asked if they'd be interested in me putting together a course on High Valyrian, which I did. I had some help at the beginning, but, truth be told, most of that course was built by me alone. I became very familiar with the Incubator, where Duolingo contributors built most of their courses. It was a bit clunky, but with enough elbow grease, you could put together something that was pretty darn good. It wasn't as shiny as their in house courses, because they couldn't do things like custom images, speaking challenges, etc., but it was still pretty good.

At the time I joined, everyone who was working in the Incubator was doing it for free. We were doing it because we wanted to put together a high quality course on our language of choice on Duolingo. When Duolingo went public, they realized this situation was untenable, so they began paying contributors. There were contracts, hourly wages, caps on billable hours, etc. It essentially became an as-you-will part time job, which wasn't too bad.

The Incubator faced a couple potentially insurmountable problems. When the courses were created by volunteers, Duolingo could say "This was made by volunteers; use at your own risk", essentially. Once they were paid, though, all courses became Duolingo products, which means they bear more responsibility for their quality. With so many courses (I mean, sooooooooo many courses) it's hard to ensure quality. Furthermore, "quality" doesn't just mean "are the exercises correct" and "are the sentences interesting". Quality means not being asked to translate sentences like "Women can't cook" or "The boy stabbed the puppy". With literally hundreds of courses each with thousands of sentences written by contractors, there was no way for Duolingo to ensure not just that they were staying on brand with these sentences, but that they weren't writing ugly things. There were reporting systems, there were admins that could resolve things behind the scenes, but with so much content, it became a situation where they would have had to hire a ton more people or scale back.

We saw what Duolingo did before with one aspect of their platform that had a similar issue. If you remember way back, Duolingo used to have a "forum", that was a real forum, but for most users, what it meant was on every single sentence in Duolingo users could make comments. These comments would explain grammar points, explain references, make jokes, etc. It was honestly really helpful. But, of course, with any system like that comes trolls, and so volunteers who had come to create language learning resources also found themselves being content reviewers, having to decide which comments to allow, which to delete, who to ban, etc. As Duolingo became more popular, the troll problem grew, and so eventually Duolingo's response was to kill the forum. This mean you were no longer able to see legitimate, helpful comments on sentences. They threw the baby out with the bathwater.

This is why it was no surprise to me when they shuttered the Incubator. The technology was out of date (from their standpoint, you understand. Their in house courses were way more sophisticated, but they couldn't update the Incubator without potentially breaking hundreds of courses they hadn't created themselves), quality assurance was nearly impossible, and they were also paying people to create and maintain these out-of-date courses they had no direct control over. Of course they closed it down. It would've taken a massive investment of time and resources (and capital) to take the Incubator as it was and turn it into something robust and future proof (think old Wordpress vs. Wordpress now), and Duolingo wanted to do other things, instead—like math and music. And so the Incubator died.

But that wasn't the only reason. This was something we heard internally and then heard later on publicly. There was rumbling that Duolingo was using AI to help flesh out their in house courses, which was troubling. This was before the big Gen AI boom, but after a particularly pernicious conlang-creation website I won't name had come to exist, so it caught my attention. I decided to do a little digging and see what this was all about, and I ended up with a familiar name.

Klinton Bicknell.

Indeed, the very same Klinton Bicknell was the head of all AI ventures at Duolingo. Whether enthusiastically or reluctantly or somewhere in between, he was absolutely a part of the decision to close the Incubator and remove all the contractors who had created all the courses that gave Duolingo its reputation. (Because, seriously, why did most of us go to Duolingo? Not for English, Spanish, French, and German.)

I know you sent this ask because of the recent news about Duolingo, but, to be honest, when I saw one of these articles float across my dash I had to check the date, because to me, the news was old. Duolingo isn't just now replacing contractors with AI: They already did. That was the Incubator; those were contractors. That is why there won't be more new language courses on Duolingo, and why the current courses are frozen. This isn't news. This is the continuation of a policy that had already firmly in place, and a direction that rests solidly on the shoulders of Klinton Bicknell.

But you don't have to take my word for it. He's talked about this plenty himself:

Podcast (Generative Now)

Article in Fast Company

Article in CNET

Google can help you find others.

At this point there's a sharp and baffling division in society with respect to generative AI. On the one hand, you have those of us who disapprove of generative AI on a truly fundamental level. Not only is the product something we don't want, the cost—both environmental and ethical—is utterly insupportable. Imagine someone asking you, "Hey, would you like a sandwich made out of shoelaces and shit?" And you say, "God, no, why would anyone ever want that?!" And their response is, "But wait! To make this sandwich out of shoelaces and shit we had to strangle 1,000 kittens and drain the power grid. Now do you want it?"

On the other side, there are people who are still—I mean today—saying things like, "Wow! Have you heard of this AI thing?! It's incredible! I want AI in everything! Can AI make my table better? Can I add AI to my arthritis? We should make everything AI as quickly as possible!"

And conversations between the two sides go roughly like this:

A: Good lord, now they're using AI art on phone ads? Something has to stop this… B: Yeah, it's so cool! Look, I can make a new emoji on my phone with AI! A: Uhhh…what? I was saying it's bad. B: Totally! I wonder if there's an AI shower yet? Like, it could control the temperature so you always have the perfect shower! A: Do you know how much power it takes to run these genAI apps? At a time when we're already struggling with income inequality, housing, inflation, and climate change? B: I know! We should get AI to fix that! A: But AI is the problem! B: Hey ChatGPT: Teach me how to surf!

It's frustrating, because the B group is very much the 💁 group. It's like, "Someone was using ChatGPT and it told them to kill themselves!" and they respond, "Ha, ha! Wow. That shouldn't have happened. What a learning opportunity! ☺️ Hey ChatGPT: How do you make gazpacho?" There's a complete disconnect.

In terms of what you do with your money, it's a difficult thing. For example, I've used Apple computers consistently since 1988. I'm fully immersed in the Apple ecosystem and I love what they do. They, like every other major company, are employing AI. If you go over to r/apple any time one of these articles comes out, it's all comments from people criticizing Apple for not putting together a better AI product and putting it out faster; none saying that they shouldn't be doing it. They're all ravenous for genAI for reasons that defy my understanding. And so what do I do? I've turned off the AI features on all my Apple devices, but beyond that, I'm locked in. From one direction, I look like a hypocrite for using devices created by a company that's investing in AI. From the other direction, though, I am using their devices to say what they're doing is fucking despicable, and they should stop—and I'll keep doing so so long as there's breath in my body.

Duolingo isn't necessary the way that, say, a computer or phone is nowadays. Duolingo is still usable for free, though, of course, they make it a frustrating experience to use its free service. (This is certainly nothing exclusive to Duolingo. That's the way of everything nowadays: streaming services, games, social media... Not "Well give you cool things if you pay!" but "We'll make your life miserable if you don't!") If you do use their Incubator courses, though, I can assure you that those are AI-free. lol They're too outdated to have anything like that. Some of those courses are bigger than others; some are better than others. But all of them were put together by human volunteers, so there's that, at least. At this point, I don't think Duolingo needs your money—nor will they miss it. They're on a kind of macro plane at the moment where the next ten years will either see the company get even bigger or completely disintegrate; there's no in between. They're likely going to take a big swing into education (perhaps something like Duolingo University [Duoversity?]) and it's either going to make a ton of money or bankrupt them. I guess we'll have to wait and see.

I've taken the Finnish course in its entirety and we're doing Hungarian now, and I've learned a lot—not enough, but a lot. I'm grateful for it. I like the platform, and I agree with the basic tenets of the language courses (daily shallow intake is better than occasional deep intake; implicit learning ahead of explicit instruction is better than the reverse). I'm grateful they exist, I'm grateful we can still use them (because they can always retire all of them, remember), and I think it's brought a lot of positivity to the world. I think Luis Van Ahn is a good guy and I hope he can steer this thing back on course, but I'm not putting my money on it.

[wethotcrazy]

THE GOLDEN LOTUS

pairing: Ollie Bearman x Reader

word count: 864

university au!! i just wanted something cute and sweet and i think i really cooked with this one. also thinking of maybe making this into a series or having other uni au's for other drivers, what do you guys think???

Ollie Bearman wasn’t one for change. Predictability was his sanctuary, a warm cocoon that he didn’t much like leaving. His life ran on routine: lectures, workouts, and pasta dinners in his dorm room. But predictability took a nosedive the day he stumbled into the Golden Lotus.

It was a small Chinese restaurant tucked between a laundromat and a charity shop, a little worn but radiating charm. Ollie’s first visit was born of desperation—he’d forgotten to do a food shop, and the Golden Lotus was cheap, convenient, and smelled amazing. He didn’t even like Chinese food that much, but the portion sizes? Enormous. Enough to feed a starving uni student for two days, if he rationed it right.

The food, however, quickly became secondary.

The real reason Ollie found himself at the Golden Lotus every Tuesday and Thursday night was the girl behind the counter. YN.

She was a computer science major with a sharp wit and a smile that felt like a reward when Ollie managed to coax it out of her. YN worked the evening shift, her laptop often open beside the register as she chipped away at coursework between filling takeout orders. She lived in the apartment above the restaurant, earning a rent discount by working their… or so he overheard.

At first, Ollie had been too shy to do much more than order his food, offer a polite smile, and retreat to his usual table. But YN had noticed him—how could she not? He was the only customer who regularly dined in. That was rare enough, but when someone started showing up twice a week like clockwork, well… she couldn’t help but be a little curious.

It had started innocently.

“You’re becoming a regular,” she’d said one night, sliding his order across the counter. Her tone was teasing but kind, and Ollie had stammered some excuse about the convenience. She’d laughed softly, and the sound stuck with him longer than it should have.

From that moment, their interactions had begun to stretch beyond the standard “Cash or card?” conversations. On slow nights, Ollie would linger, striking up tentative chats about coursework or whatever music was playing on the overhead speakers. He learned that YN hated group projects but loved building things—apps, websites, anything she could tinker with. She learned that Ollie was studying business but had a secret dream of running his own karting center someday, a nod to his childhood passion for motorsports.

It wasn’t long before they’d fallen into a quiet rhythm.

When YN wasn’t busy, she’d sit at a table with her laptop open, her brow furrowed as she debugged code or prepared for lectures. One evening, Ollie surprised her by setting his business textbook across from her.

“You don’t mind, do you?” he asked.

She blinked at him, caught off guard, then shrugged. “Sure, but I’m not sharing my Wi-Fi password.”

He grinned, and just like that, Ollie became a fixture of her workspace.

Mr. Zhou, however, was less enthused at first.

“That boy again?” he’d muttered one evening, poking his head out of the kitchen to see Ollie hunched over his notes. “Does he not have a home?”

“He’s harmless,” YN had assured him.

“Harmless or homeless?”

But Ollie grew on Mr. Zhou over time. The older man had caught him fixing a wobbly table one night, unprompted, and begrudgingly admitted the “straggler” wasn’t so bad.

By November, Ollie had started hanging around until closing. Not to pester YN—though he did enjoy the extra time with her—but because the restaurant had become a comfort to him, a little pocket of warmth in his otherwise hectic uni life. Sometimes, after locking up, YN would invite him upstairs to her flat. It was tiny, crammed with textbooks and a perpetually half-finished Lego sets, but Ollie loved it.

Their hangouts weren’t dates. Not officially, anyway. But Ollie couldn’t deny how much he looked forward to them. Whether they were watching a movie or playing video games, he felt at ease in her company.

The turning point came in mid-December, on a freezing morning when Ollie was walking to class with his flatmate, Kimi.

“So,” Kimi began, glancing at him with a sly smile, “how’s your girlfriend?”

“What?” Ollie nearly tripped over his own feet.

“You know, YN,” Kimi said, casually sipping his coffee. “You’re at that restaurant all the time. I just thought… you know?”

“She’s not my—” Ollie started, but the words died in his throat.

Because, truthfully, he didn’t hate the idea. In fact, the thought of YN as his girlfriend made his stomach flip in a way he hadn’t felt before.

That evening, as he sat at his usual table in the Golden Lotus, Ollie caught himself staring at YN while she worked. She was wiping down the counter, humming softly to herself, her hair falling loose from its tie. She glanced up and caught him looking.

“What?” she asked, a playful smile tugging at her lips.

“Nothing,” Ollie said quickly, feeling his cheeks heat.

But in that moment, he realized he didn’t want to keep playing it safe. Maybe it was time to take a chance.

Just as soon as he worked up the courage.

[literaryvein-reblogs]

Hi there! I'm writing a barista character and got a bit stuck. Do you have any notes on how to write baristas (e.g. what shifts are like; what you have to learn to be one, etc)? Thank you so much!

(Your posts here are invaluable, by the way, and super helpful. 😄)

Writing Notes: Barista

Barista - specializes in making a variety of coffee and espresso beverages.

Usually works in a cafe, coffee shop or bookstore where they take customer orders, complete transactions and serve drinks.

May also prepare and serve a few small meals and pastry options.

Day-to-Day Tasks

As a barista, you would:

prepare the premises or outlet ready for opening

welcome customers, take orders and process payments

prepare and serve coffees, hot snacks, sandwiches and cakes

clean and tidy work areas, equipment and coffee machines

check and order new stock

Preparing Beverages. One of the barista’s primary duties is preparing various drinks to meet customer preferences. This involves:

Crafting Espresso-Based Drinks: Baristas skillfully pull espresso shots, steam milk, and create drinks like cappuccinos, lattes, and macchiatos. They ensure each beverage has the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

Brewing Specialty Coffees: Many coffee shops offer pour-over coffees, cold brews, or French press options. Baristas must understand brewing methods, grind size, and extraction techniques to achieve the desired flavor profile.

Creating Latte Art: For many customers, presentation matters as much as taste. Baristas often add intricate designs, such as hearts or rosettas, to elevate the visual appeal of lattes and cappuccinos.

Customizing Orders: Customize drinks to customer preferences by adjusting sweetness levels, switching to non-dairy milk, or adding extra espresso shots.

Other barista duties may include: 

Welcoming patrons to the shop

Building a relationship with regular customers and remembering their orders

Explaining the cafe’s special menu items as necessary

Recommending beverage options if requested

Following recipes and presentation guides to make beverages

Preparing plates or takeaway containers of pastry and food items

Cleaning and maintaining the commercial coffee machine, steamer and blender

Following health and safety policies

Removing dishes from the table as patrons finish their drinks

Preparing checks and taking payment from patrons

Work Environment 

Baristas work in a variety of coffee shops with the following characteristics:

Standing and walking around for extended periods of time

Lifting and carrying food and drink trays to tables

Working near many other customers, servers and kitchen staff

Wearing a uniform if required by the restaurant

Working environment may be noisy

Typical Hours

40 to 42 hours (variable) per week

Evenings / Weekends / Holidays (on shifts)

Cafes and coffee shops typically open early in the mornings

May require baristas to be flexible with scheduling to meet customer demand

The work can be fast-paced during busy periods

Suitable job for students and part-time workers

Career Path & Progression

There may also be opportunities to move into:

barista staff training

equipment maintenance

coffee tasting and buying

product development and marketing

You could become self-employed and open your own coffee shop.

With experience, you could become a:

store manager, then

regional manager, with a coffee retail chain or franchise.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Flexible Hours: Perfect for students or part-time workers.

Skill Development: Learn customer service, multitasking, and coffee expertise.

Social Interaction: Build relationships with customers and colleagues.

Career Growth: Opportunities to advance into management or specialty coffee roles.

Cons

Physical Demands: Standing for long periods and repetitive motions.

Irregular Hours: Early mornings, weekends, and holidays are typical.

Modest Pay: Entry-level wages can be low, though tips often help.

How to Become a Barista

You can get into this job through: a college course; an apprenticeship; applying directly; training with a professional body.

College. Although not essential, you could do a college course that would give you some of the skills needed for this role. Courses include:

barista skills

food and beverage service

retail skills

Apprenticeship. You can apply to do a Hospitality Team Member Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship.

This will usually take 12 months to complete

A mix of on-the-job training and time spent with a college or training provider

Direct Application. When you start, your employer will put you through training in barista skills and product knowledge. Some employers may prefer you to have experience in customer service, retail sales or catering.

Common Personality Traits

22,778 baristas were surveyed to learn what personality traits and interests make them unique. Based on the Holland Codes:

Baristas tend to be predominantly conventional individuals, meaning that they are usually detail-oriented and organized, and like working in a structured environment.

They also tend to be realistic, which means that they often enjoy working outdoors or applying themselves to a hands-on project.

Based on The Big Five:

Baristas score highly on openness, which means they are usually curious, imaginative, and value variety.

They also tend to be high on the measure of extraversion, meaning that they rely on external stimuli to be happy, such as people or exciting surroundings.

Barista Tools

Baristas use a wide variety of tools to complete their duties. Some common tools:

Espresso Machine. Allows you to brew highly concentrated black coffee. During this process, the machine forces pressurized hot water through finely grounded coffee. Some types of drinks you can make using an espresso machine include: Macchiato; Cafe latte; Cappuccino; Mocha; Affogato; and Americano

Frothing Steam Pitcher. Used to create any drink that requires milk. A frothing stream pitcher helps you create a milk foam to top off a cup of coffee. You can also use this type of pitcher to create an assortment of latte art. Frothing pitchers are stainless steel and feature a handle and pouring spout. A narrow spout can offer control when pouring latte art, such as a heart or rose. You can also find frothing pitchers in different sizes, depending on the amount of milk you want to froth.

Foam Frothing Spoon. After creating foam from a steam pitcher, you can use a foam frothing spoon to control how much foam you pour over a cup of coffee. Using a frothing spoon can prevent spilling that may occur when pouring the foam into a cup of coffee. This type of spoon features a flat tip that makes it easier to scoop only foam from a steaming pitcher.

Thermometer. When making espresso, it's important to consider the brewing temperature, along with that of the milk froth. If your espresso machine doesn't come with a proportional-integral-derivative, use a thermometer to measure espresso as it leaves the brew head.When making a drink that requires steamed milk, it's important for the milk to reach the ideal temperature of about 149 degrees Fahrenheit. To reach this temperature, consider using a frothing thermometer for complete accuracy. A frothing thermometer can also help you avoid burning the milk while ensuring a caramelized milk finish that can elevate the flavor of any coffee.

Commercial Coffee Maker. This type of coffee maker lets you brew a standard cup of coffee. After filling it with water and coffee grounds, a coffee maker filters hot water through a basket holding coffee grounds. After filtering, black coffee enters the coffee pot. You can use this black coffee for a standard cup of coffee or for other drinks such as an iced coffee or latte.

Tamper. Baristas use tampers to brew espresso, whether in a machine or through a stovetop espresso maker. A tamper lets you pack loosely dosed coffee grounds so they're tightly pressed, ensuring a quality espresso shot. You can also adjust the length of a tamper depending on the espresso dosage.

Scale. Helps you achieve a consistent and accurately measured espresso shot. In terms of measurement, a scale helps you determine the amount of beans you use for one shot. If you use a quality grinder with a doser, you may not need a scale.

Coffee Grinder. Grinds fresh coffee beans before the brewing process. A coffee grinder lets you grind as much coffee as needed, whether for an espresso shot or a large batch of coffee. Many coffee grinders have conical burrs that let you select the size of your coffee grounds.

Sources: 1 2 3 4 5 ⚜ More: References ⚜ Writing Resources PDFs

Hi, thanks so much for your lovely words, you're too kind! Hope this helps with your writing 💕

[luulapants]

Do you have any tips to be more punk in 2025 specifically for minors?

Hey, great question! Let's take a look at our list and see what still applies and what we can flip around for you.

Cut fast fashion - Still applies! Try clothing swaps with friends.

Cut subscriptions Analyze your media consumption - Do you tend to play phone games that are psychologically manipulative? Are algorithms taking you to content that makes you upset? Track your screen time, think about what's being sold to you, and resist only consuming the media that is fed to you.

Green your community self - Forget touching grass, find ways to touch dirt. Spend time outside in nature. Go for hikes, look at trees, track how plants and animals change over the seasons. You're part of the natural world, so go connect with it!

Be kind - Still applies! Try handing out more compliments.

Intervene - Still applies, and especially applies to bullies, including teachers. This can be as simple as saying, "That was a really messed up thing to say. I think you owe X an apology."

Get closer to your food - Still applies! Try packing your lunch.

Use opensource software Reject Web 2.0 - Before you try to learn Linux, people your age need to start by learning some basic computer and coding skills. My generation was given computer classes and had social media that encouraged custom coding. Yours has been deprived of this education and given prepackaged web content. Reject AI. Right click + inspect element + fuck around. Learn Raspberry Pi. Become the cyberpunk hacker you want to see in the world.

Make less trash - Still applies! If mom won't let you start a compost in the backyard, propose starting one at school!

Get involved in local school politics - Know what's going on with your school board, with school administration. Start an underground, uncensored school newspaper with the real dirt.

DIY > fashion - High school is where a lot of adults learned their bad habits about keeping up with appearance/fashion demands. Refuse to buy in now and make homemade the new cool.

Ditch Google - Still applies! And also check your app settings to see if you have apps with unnecessary permissions.

Forage - Still applies!

Volunteer - Still applies! There might be fewer opportunities for minors, but you'll never know until you ask. Don't be afraid to be the only young person at the volunteer session.

Help your neighbors classmates - Offer to study with students who are struggling. Become someone people can trust to tell if their home situation is difficult. If you have friends who don't get enough to eat at home, bring them home for dinner. Check on people.

Fix stuff - Still applies! This can be a fun activity with friends, too. Let's all hang out and see if we can fix this busted stereo!

Mix up your transit - Still applies! Is taking the bus considered lame at your school? Do it anyway.

Engage in the arts - Still applies! Pay attention to art events that your classmates are putting on. Go to the school play - or join! Stop in the art classrooms to see what people are working on.

Go to the library - Still applies, public and school libraries! Talk to the librarians - they know things. Find out if there are after school programs you can take advantage of.

Listen local - Even more local! Stop by the band room after school to listen to practice. Does someone in your school have a band? Listen to them, cheer them on! Start a band! The great thing about punk music is that you can be really, really awful and still sound punk as hell.

Buy local Barter local - Lots of young folks don't have much control over or access to money, but that doesn't mean you and your classmates can't engage in barter. Figure out what you have to offer that other people might want, and trade for stuff you want. I used to cut hair and pierce ears in exchange for weed and rides to the mall. Maybe you can sew a friend's jacket in exchange for them bringing you a homemade lunch.

Become unmarketable - Still applies! PLEASE do this.

Use cash Steal ethically - Before engaging in shoplifting, make sure you know who you're stealing from! Stealing from Walmart is morally correct. Stealing from a family-owned grocery, a local coop, or a local artist? That fucking sucks, dude. Don't do it.

Give what you can - And only what you can. We ask a godawful lot from teens. You're in school all day, you're doing extracurriculars and maybe working and doing homework. You probably don't have a lot of money. You probably don't have a lot of time. But maybe you can bring your elderly neighbor's trash cans up from the street. Find the small actions that you have space for.

Talk about wages - PLEASE! If you have a job, this applies to you even more. Why? Because the adults working at your minimum wage job probably can't afford to be rabble rousers, but what do you have to lose except your shitty part-time Panera job?? A teenager who doesn't actually need their job to live has the opportunity to be the voice of truth in any workplace.

Think about wealthflow Resist indoctrination - Education systems are being gutted. Algorithms are feeding us misinformation. Cocomelon probably gave you ADHD or some shit - Jesus. It's a mess. Do what you can to practice critical thinking, expand your literacy, read stuff that seems boring. Start a book club or philosophy club with your friends. Ask who's profiting from a given situation. Resist knee-jerk reactions. Becoming an educated, thoughtful person is one of the greatest acts of resistance a young person today can engage in.

[haebi-nd]

INUMAKI TOGE x non-sorcerer!reader

where you're just a high school student who happens to work at a convenience store near jujutsu high | a moodboard w/ headcanons ++ This is just a cute idea I had in my drafts for a while, tbh I don't rlly know if it makes sense, like would there be a convenience store near jujutsu high, idek

stocking shelves upon shelves, fake smiles that don't reach up to your eyes as you scan items and wish customers a good day

the only bit of excitement throughout your shifts was the quiet boy who always lingered among the snack aisles despite always buying the same thing every time, onigiri

the quiet boy with silver hair who always has the bottom half of his face covered

who stares at you while you ring up his items or when you count his change back to him, like he's memorizing your features, or something

who quite literally has never spoken a word to you despite giving him your warmest smiles, the ones that did reach your eyes

you only see him sometimes but nonetheless, you're still curious about him

something about it has your mind wandering towards him during your classes—thinking about him and how soft his hair seems to be when you should be taking notes about whatever it was the teacher was explaining

—wondering how long his eyelashes are exactly and what he's covering under those masks and zipped-up hoodies, zoning out as you make your friends repeat what they're saying for the third time

—imaging how deep or soft his voice must be and how it would sound if he were to ever say your name, as you sit in your living room, the tv becoming background noise

but then again, if he were interested he would've said something by now...right?

that's why it catches you by surprise when he's handing you his phone with the phone app pulled up and opened to the keypad

you're already punching in your phone number and handing his phone back to him before your mind can even process it

the two of you are inseparable, metaphorically, as days pass with your nose in your phone, fingers tapping away at the screen, and a shy smile plastered on your face

from the mysterious jujutsu high you've always walked past to the beautiful markings on either side of his smile, you learn everything about him

he's nervous about it at first, not sure that you quite understand how dangerous it all is

but you ease his worries away, with each brush you give to his soft hair with your hands or every kiss you peck onto his nose, cheeks, then his lips

it takes you a little over 3 months to fully understand his lingo, but you wouldn't have it any other way

from late-night convenience store runs together to intense, competitive, game nights, you really wouldn't have it any other way

because inumaki makes it so easy, too easy, to love him

© haebi-nd, haebi nice day

[fictionsoul]

Part-time in your heart

Synopsis: The part-time employee at the mouserabbit take a full time job in Yesung's heart.

Warnings: Maybe an over-soft Yesung, use of one of Yesung's real name (Kim Jong Woon), a special ft. with his little brother (Kim Jong Jin)

w/c: 4k

a/n: This story ended being a little bit long but I think is better get it as oneshot instead a two-parts story

Part-time in your heart

The fragrance of coffee wafted through every corner of the cafe accompanied by the vibrant aromatic sparkles escaping from the ovens behind you. You couldn't have felt more comfortable at your job in front of the counter, next to the espresso machines.

Because of your student schedule, the part-time job at the Mouserabbit that you had gotten fit you like a glove. It wasn't that you were hurting for money, but the scholarship didn't help much when it came to buying all the material for the projects you needed for your college career.

Taking orders, preparing those that were to be delivered by app and serving a few tables was a simple thing to attend to, a task that didn't require much effort but did require a lot of concentration.

On days with too many customers you used to get stressed but you didn't make mistakes, you didn't have that tendency to be absent-minded at work, but unfortunately you were in other areas of everyday life.

Sometimes you would leave your tumbler with a drink in it and completely forget where you had put it, which put everyone on alert looking for it in case someone had taken it by accident, only to realize minutes later that it was next to the cash register next to you all the time.

Those little slips were your personal trademark, something they had learned to live with and now only caused your co-workers and your boss to laugh.

"Did someone saw my cap? I swear I left it on the hook in the bathroom and it's not there anymore," you complained, adjusting your apron around your waist.

You couldn't be at the counter without a full uniform and you couldn't lose that cap either because you would have to buy another one and that meant an expense you hadn't contemplated.

"Have you already looked inside the shelf where we left our belongings? The other day I found the phone there that you swore was in the bathroom," reminded one of the baristas.

"It's not there. I already checked twice and I can't find it, maybe someone took it by accident."

Before you could even continue accusing your colleagues, someone placed the cap on your head, provoking laughter from your colleagues and a rising blush that fortunately you were able to keep at bay.

"I found the cap on the coat rack at the entrance," he replied without anyone asking the question.

Kim Jong Woon had finally gone inside to do his usual shift at the cash register. Now you had one less task to take care of in the remaining hour of work.

Inevitably Yesung's eyes traveled to the side of the cash register to check that your water bottle was there, not that he was worried about where you left things, he just found it mildly annoying to hear you constantly blaming everyone for moving your stuff just because you couldn't pay attention to your belongings.

Indeed the container was still there, a translucent bottle with pink and red strawberry print containing your water almost intact. However the bottle was not the only thing you had left there, but also a rubber band to hold your hair.

The time passed with its usual tranquility and your smartwatch sounded its alarm, thus warning that your shift at work was over and that now the boss would take over to cover your place.

"My shift is over, I'll go to the back room to get my things," you chirped as you untied your apron strings so you could get rid of it.

You walked quickly past the cash register, making your way behind the baristas. You had a discreet race against the clock because you had arranged to meet your colleagues from the faculty in the library to finish recording the exhibition they had been asked to do.

You carelessly exchanged your uniform for your regular clothes and stuffed everything into your school bag, but your water bottle was missing. You had packed enough to spend the rest of the day in the library. You had no choice but to return to the front of the cafe to ask again if anyone had seen your bottle.

"Did someone move my water bottle? It's a clear one with strawberries."

"I'm sure it's in the bathroom," Kim Jong Jin joked. "Good afternoon everyone, I see that the welcomes from (Y/N) are still the most creative of the team."

Muffled laughter was heard lightly all around as your face was tinged with a slight blush that you couldn't stop. Things were different when the jokes and comments came from the owner and his brother.

"Did you go out before your military service?" asked Jong Jin to his older brother, patting his shoulder in greeting.

You had been a little distracted by the facts, but you regained your composure and continued looking for your water bottle.

After double-checking the drawers where the cutlery was kept, you saw your precious water bottle appear in front of your eyes. Jong Woon was holding it in front of your face along with the rubber band.

"Thank you!" You shouted and smiled, almost snatching the bottle from his hands before fleeing in the direction of the exit.

He watched your every move carefully, but his memory kept replaying the way you smiled and the feel of your fingers touching his, it even took him longer than he wanted to realize that his heart had skipped a beat and his stomach was swarming furiously inside him.

He shook his head as if to rid himself of all new emotions and sensations, even if that method was not going to diminish the frequency with which memories invaded his mind again and again.

The next week Jong Woon really tried his best not to put his attention on the things you had left scattered in inconvenient places.

For the first two days it was an easy task because you two had not managed to coincide. From time to time he would be late due to his public service duties and just that had happened again.

But on the third day things got very complicated for him.

He tried hard to ignore your hair tie that you had left in front of the mirror in the bathroom, or the phone that you put in one of the empty drawers where the coffee filters that were no longer useful used to be placed, he even pretended not to notice that your backpack this time was on the floor next to the water jugs that were used for the staff.

You had gone from being just another employee to a small nuisance that he had to take care of without that being his intention. He couldn't complain because those things didn't affect his work at all, they didn't get in the way or provoke arguments. In fact even your colleagues were entertained listening to your complaints or watching you looking for your belongings around the cafeteria.

"Did anyone see my hair tie? I had it in my hand and I think I dropped it," you asked holding your hair up as if you were going to put it in a ponytail.

The poor Kim Jong Woon clenched his hands into fists and then rested them on the table where the cash register was located, he was trying not to tell you where it was. He didn't want to meddle in your business or have anything to do with you.

When you didn't get an answer you started your usual route looking for the hair accessory, starting in the back room where you left your backpack.

"Who moved my backpack from its place?" you asked when you couldn't find it where you always put it, "stop being so rude and give me back my things."

Your companions couldn't stand it any longer and let out their laughter as they watched you come and go looking for your backpack.

Not everyone seemed to be amused by your carelessness. The owner's brother was suffering in silence while repeating over and over again that he shouldn't help you, that it was better to keep you away and busy looking for your things.

Resigned you returned to your spot, but you were unable to touch the food because your hair could generate an accident with them. Now they only passed you the things to pack them in their bags and only fill the orders of the mobile apps.

In a spare moment, you approached the cash register and placed your hand on Jong Woon's shoulder to ask him if you hadn't left your things there.

The touch of your hand on his shoulder made him jump a little, standing completely still with his heart pounding.

"I didn't mean to scare you, I'm sorry." Your words came out stunned as you bowed again and again hoping he wasn't upset with you."I just wanted to know if I didn't leave my things here."

The boy nervously bit his lower lip unable to take his eyes off you. His attention was focused entirely on the way your big eyes were watching him pleading for help.

He gave up, he couldn't go on pretending he didn't know where you had left your things.

"What new item from (Y/N) is missing?" asked Kim Jong Jin as soon as he joined the team behind the counter.

"She just doesn't lose her head because it's attached to her body," replied one of the baristas, provoking further laughter.

"It's my backpack and my hair tie."

"I saw the hair accessory in front of the mirror in the bathroom and the backpack is next to the water jugs, besides, your phone is inside the drawer of this cabinet."

Yesung's hand reached out and to your surprise he opened the drawer of the useless filters, from it he pulled out your phone and everyone applauded. It looked like he had done the classic magic act of pulling the rabbit out of the hat. Everyone was impressed, you were even grateful again.

Jong Woon's response didn't go unnoticed by his brother, just as he didn't miss the way his lip curved as soon as you uttered a myriad of "thank you," or when your hands clasped his brother's and he seemed to struggle internally not to blush like a teenager.

Everyone knew Yesung, the idol who planted himself in front of the cameras and the public all the time as if he was all confidence and good manners; but no one knew Jong Woon, the brother he had spent his whole life with, at least no one knew him like he did.

Your turn came to an end and you left the cafe again with a huge smile for having recovered those objects you had lost, because you would not have to stay any longer looking for your belongings.

You were just a few meters away from the cafe when your phone received a message from an unknown number, in that text Jong Woon said that he had something that belonged to you, even the picture of your water bottle next to the cash register was attached.

Yesung turned to glare at his brother as he snatched his phone from his hands. Jong Jin had borrowed it because "his had run out of battery".

"Who did you contact?" His slight frown made it clear that he was not happy that he had sent a message, let alone that his younger brother deleted the conversation from his device.

Then you walked in through the front of the cafe, as if you were just another customer and not part of the staff.

"What are you doing here (Y/N)? Did you forget one more thing?" Jong Jin was using that mocking tone that made his brother so nervous. One charged with the feeling of being used as bait for his own enjoyment and complacency.

"Someone told me I forgot my water bottle, I'm so sorry."

You made your way to the cash register and Yesung's eyes widened. His gaze fell on his brother, who was smiling mischievously behind your back.

"Could you please give me the bottle?"

Jong Woon couldn't string something coherent together at that moment, his brain had short-circuited as soon as he began to connect the dots and realized what kind of atrocity his brother had done to him. He hadn't expected such a betrayal from someone as close as he was.

"In the picture it was on the side of the box."

You both looked toward the now empty space, but Yesung's eyes traveled to his brother, who was placing the bottle on top of one of the empty tables in the cafe.

"Come take a break (Y/N), you must be exhausted from searching for your stuff everywhere. Lucky we have Jong Woon to keep an eye on you."

The singer's frown sank deeper, but the cafe owner was enjoying himself too much to stop. No one in the place could decipher the silent conversation the two brothers were having, arguing over an exchange of glances just as you turned around to make your way back to the table where your boss was waiting.

The staff did not miss the opportunity to make teasing little remarks to the idol who for the moment was fulfilling his role as cashier.

"If I lose my car keys I'll ask Jong Woon, unless he only has memory to remember the places where (Y/N) leaves his stuff"

"Jong Woon has saved us from seeing her looking for her things everywhere. Good thing you always keep an eye on her."

"When you start dating, don't forget about those of us who support you in this relationship."

Yesung's calm countenance was noticeably disturbed by the comments, as the tips of his ears had become tinged with a reddish hue that threatened to reach his face as the employees increased the tone of their comments.

After a couple of minutes, Jong Woon shed his uniform and left his spot in front of the cash register to walk to the table. It seemed as if an invisible force was pulling him toward you against his will.

"Thank you for sending me that message, this bottle was a gift my parents gave me when they returned from a vacation abroad."

The explanation was unnecessary, but you felt the urge to continue talking so as not to let an uncomfortable silence settle between the two of you, much less now that you had him sitting in front of you sharing the same space outside of work.

To be able to interact with him behind the counter was something simple and everyday, but to face him outside of there expecting to have a meaningful conversation was something you didn't count on. The image you had built up of him was not the friendliest person in the world and yet there he was, returning a bottle of water to someone as clueless as you.

"I hope I didn't bother you with this. I know I often forget where I put my things, but at work I'm efficient, I've never done a single one of my errands wrong....

"I know, I don't mean to scold you. My brother was the one who sent you the text message using my phone. You know he's usually a bit... annoying."

They were both silent. Jong Woon's mind traveled around every corner looking for something else to say, but he had run out of ideas.

You, on the other hand, were praying that he would be the one to get up first so as not to appear rude or eager to run away from there as soon as possible.

"Would you like to order some dinner?" The words came out without Yesung thinking it through carefully enough. It had been a completely involuntary offer.

Your mind was still not processing what was happening.

You had become mute.

What were you supposed to say to that invitation? You had to go home to study for your bimonthly evaluations, you still had to complete an individual project and you still hadn't inserted the slide images for your presentation the following week.

"It's not necessary, if you have other plans....

"Of course I want to have dinner with you... well not only with you, I mean here. I'm kind of hungry right now. Thank you." You mentally slapped your forehead while regretting saying so many incoherent sentences in a sudden uncontainable verbosity.

To say that Jong Woon made you nervous was an understatement. He intimidated you with his deep stare and you felt judged every time you caught him watching you when he thought you didn't notice. But the worst part was that you couldn't help your eyes falling on him from time to time.

You were attracted to him, interested in him and most of all intrigued by him.

You thought he saw you as a nuisance, but knowing that he paid attention to your belongings had lit a little light of hope inside you.

You didn't want to abuse your fortune nor did you want him to get a bad image of you, so you had to control your mind and heart a bit hoping that neither of them would betray you.

"Are you going to stand there watching the table or are you going to tell me what you want for dinner?" Yesung's voice interrupted your tranquility.

You wrapped your back on the seat and watched him as if you were a soldier receiving important information from his commander.

He smiled at your attitude. It was a sweet and harmonious laugh that contrasted with his meditative countenance.

"A tiramisu and a latte please."

"I'll go and prepare it."

Your face reddened as he stood up and you buried your face in your hands to cover the obvious blush.

Just as he had said, Jong Woon was behind the espresso machine preparing the drinks while his brother made harmless comments about the situation.

No one there could believe that the singer was taking the trouble to personally prepare your order. They didn't doubt his ability to do so because they had seen him operating the machines as if he was second nature, but that he was doing it for someone else had blown them away.

Kim Jong Jin just smiled at what he was witnessing.

While the others only saw the surface. He noticed the trembling in his older brother's hands, saw the slight blush on his neck and the way he ran his tongue over his lower lip as a symbol of his obvious nervousness. When Yesung let out the air he had been holding back as soon as he finished steaming the milk, he decided to help him out a bit.

"I'll serve the desserts and take them away. Don't leave her alone for so long."

He fulfilled his role as his older brother's right-hand man. He stepped in when things seemed to be getting awkward between the two of you, filled in your silences with sudden comments that encouraged both of you to chat, and finally avoided the staff's taunts when it was closing time and you two were still engaged in a little discussion about what you thought was the best album of the year.

The night with its deep darkness came in what seemed like minutes to you, and in reality had been three hours. It was too late to walk home as you used to do when your shift at work was over.

"It got dark so fast," you muttered almost inaudibly.

"I'll get a coat and take you home," Yesung offered as he noticed the concern in your voice.

At first he thought you were a very nervous woman. Someone who couldn't even look him in the face to hold a coherent conversation, but as time went on and the talk became pleasant he realized you were someone shy who found it hard to express herself with confidence.

But time solved the problem and he soon became engrossed in your words, in the way you moved your hands as you spoke to him, and above all, in how your lips moved in smiles to continue expressing your ideas.

You waited patiently until he returned to the table with the keys of his car in his hands. The owner of the coffee shop smiled at you as he waved goodbye shaking his hand in the air.

When you left the place, the cool wind welcomed you and ruffled your hair. The singer smiled and almost involuntarily combed your hair with the palm of his hand to return it to its original state.

The touch was warm. The gesture quite comforting as you stood a few steps away from the Mouserabbit.

Yesung cleared his throat in embarrassment and placed his hands behind his back so he wouldn't be tempted to touch you again.

"I live close by, we can walk there."

It seemed like the most cliché walk of your life.

You were walking shoulder to shoulder on the sidewalk not daring to cross words or glances, both focused on the road ahead and the thoughts inside your heads.

As it was fated to happen, a motorcyclist on the sidewalk approached you almost passing over you. Jong Woon's reaction was almost immediate, grabbing you by the waist to pull you out of the way closer to his chest.

His fluttering heart was screaming what he dared not say out loud. He was clearly nervous by the almost unavoidable accident, but above all by having you in his arms at that moment.

It was only a few seconds but it felt like an eternity. It was comforting to hear his heart and feel his protective arms around you, but it was time to put you aside.

"Thank you for saving me Jong Woon."

You placed your palms on the singer's torso to pull away from his embrace, but he didn't let you do it, on the contrary, he pulled you even harder.

"Stay like that a little longer."

It was probably the silliest sentence he could articulate so far, but his soul had traveled to another galaxy and returned in a matter of seconds as soon as he saw the vehicle that almost ran over you approaching and now you were in his arms, invading his personal space in a way too pleasant for his own taste.

"Is everything all right?" Another silly question, you chided yourself.

Of course all was not well. Of course things had gotten mixed up in a strange way and everything was out of your control.

"It is. It is now."

His embrace was warm and his words comforting. You no longer felt so silly and unprotected, on the contrary, he made you feel safe around him, like a protective force created just for you.

When the embrace finally lost its strength, you dared to raise your head to meet his gaze. It wasn't the analytical eyes that returned your gaze, it was those full of tenderness that seemed to smile just for you.

In an act full of unconscious bravery, he placed his hand on your chin tilting your face slightly back, his lips came close to yours and then the distance between you was reduced to nothing.

The light touch between mouths became deeper, more intense and more real. Both senses were focused on that shared kiss.

"Wow," you whispered, bringing your fingertips to your lips.

"I like you."

You didn't expect the kiss, much less to receive such a confession so suddenly, so unpremeditated. But it was honest, it was special and it was uttered from the bottom of his heart.

"I feel the same, more awkward and confused, but I also like you a lot."

"Let's continue on our way. It's already late."

But the walk was no longer the same. Although it was still a silent journey. Your hands were intertwined and your warm gazes told each other everything your mouths were silent about.

A small reminder that requests are open, if you don't feel good sending messages in english, you cand send your request in spanish too (since I can work properly with that language).

[academiclifexd]

"How Technology is Changing the Way We Learn"

In the past few years, there has been a sudden rise in the use of technology in various aspects of life, especially in education. With the increasing availability of digital tools and online resources, students now have more access to more information and learning opportunities than ever before. This shift has significantly changed the way we students study, collaborate, and comprehend academic content. As a Senior High School STEM student, I’ve witnessed firsthand how technology has shaped our academic journey throughout the years. Here are various reasons why technology is changing the way we learn.

1. Access to Various Sources

Back in the earlier days, the library was the primary source of information. The library was a haven not just for bookworms, but for students who needed help with their homework. The library had a collection of books that were full of specific information that assisted students in finding answers, solutions, definitions, and terms needed for their homework. Growing up in Gen Z like myself as a STEM student relies much more on technology nowadays than a physical library because with a touch of a smartphone or a click of a computer, you now have access to different websites that contain the information you need, especially when you need to conduct a research study, which most students use Google Scholar.

2. Interactive Learning Tools

Textbooks are no longer the only tools we use to learn. Interactive apps, simulations, and educational games have become commonplace in many classrooms. As a STEM student, I’ve experienced how these tools make learning more engaging. Apps like Khan Academy offer interactive courses in math, physics, and computer science, breaking down complex topics into bite-sized lessons with visual aids.

Platforms like Quizizz display flashcards that could help students enhance their active recall, memorizing, and understanding of the concepts easily because of the quiz game it offers.

3. Collaboration in Real-Time

One of the biggest changes technology has brought to education is the ability to collaborate in real-time, regardless of any location in the world. Platforms like Google Docs, Microsoft Teams, and Zoom have been helping students ever since the Covid-19 pandemic struck. During the pandemic, remote learning platforms became essential for continuing education. Even though many students faced challenges with online learning, these platforms provided a way for education to continue without interruption all thanks to the implementation of Online Classes. Now, blended learning—combining in-person and online education—is becoming the norm, offering more flexibility for both teachers and students.

4. Personalized Learning

Every student learns differently, and technology is helping cater to these individual learning styles. Adaptive learning platforms use algorithms to tailor lessons to each student’s needs. If you’re struggling with a particular topic, these platforms adjust the difficulty and provide extra support until you grasp the concept. Tools like Duolingo and Grammarly, which offer students language and grammar support are just a few examples of how technology provides customized learning experiences.

For us STEM students, this is particularly helpful, especially when using Grammarly for a research project. Using Platforms like Grammarly helps correct revisable sentences and paragraphs easily in one click, providing less effort and less time-consuming for us students.

5. Preparation for the Future

Technology isn’t just transforming education for the present; it’s also preparing students for the future. As technology like AI and Programming evolves, we students could resort to learning skills like coding, and learning the different types of programming languages so that we could adjust to the evolving technology all around us.

6. The Potential Downsides

While technology has brought us numerous benefits, it’s important to acknowledge the challenges and disadvantages it presents. Overreliance on technology can often lead to distractions, with social media and games constantly thriving for attention. Furthermore, the concept of Technology and its use remains a problem in many parts of the world, where students lack access to the necessary tools and internet connectivity to fully benefit from online learning resources.

[dawnjaco22]

Black flowers: A yakuza love story

⸻

Chapter 1: Welcome to Tokyo

The airplane’s wheels screeched against the tarmac, jolting Dawn awake from a restless sleep. As the aircraft taxied to its gate at Narita International Airport, she pressed her forehead against the window, taking in the sprawling cityscape of Tokyo. Neon lights flickered in the distance, hinting at the vibrant life awaiting her.

Stepping into the terminal, Dawn was immediately enveloped by a whirlwind of unfamiliar sounds and sights. Announcements blared in rapid Japanese, and a sea of people moved with practiced efficiency. Clutching her carry-on, she navigated through customs and baggage claim, her heart pounding with a mix of excitement and trepidation.

Outside, the air was thick with humidity, a stark contrast to the cool, air-conditioned terminal. She hailed a taxi, showing the driver the address of her new apartment in Shibuya. The ride was a blur of towering skyscrapers, bustling streets, and illuminated billboards. Tokyo was alive, pulsating with energy.

Her apartment was a modest one-bedroom nestled in a quiet alleyway, a haven amidst the city’s chaos. The landlord, an elderly woman named Mrs. Tanaka, greeted her with a warm smile and a basket of mochi. Despite the language barrier, they communicated through gestures and laughter, setting the tone for Dawn’s new life.

The next morning, Dawn began her job as an English teacher at a local language school. Her students ranged from eager children to ambitious adults, all eager to learn. She found joy in teaching, but the cultural nuances often left her puzzled. Bowing, gift-giving, and the unspoken rules of politeness were all new to her.

One evening, after a long day, she decided to explore the city. The streets were alive with people, the aroma of street food wafting through the air. She stumbled upon a quaint ramen shop tucked away in an alley. As she entered, the chatter hushed, and all eyes turned to her.

She took a seat at the counter, ordering with the help of a translation app. As she waited, two men entered the shop, their presence commanding attention. They were tall, with sharp features and an air of authority. They took seats beside her, and she couldn’t help but notice the intricate tattoos peeking from beneath their sleeves.

One of them, with piercing eyes and a calm demeanor, turned to her. “First time here?” he asked in fluent English.

She nodded, surprised. “Yes, just moved here.”

He extended his hand. “I’m Shintaro. This is my brother, Shingen.”

She shook his hand, noting the strength in his grip. “I’m Dawn.”

They exchanged pleasantries, and she learned they were involved in family business. The conversation flowed easily, and she found herself laughing at their stories. As they parted ways, Shintaro handed her a business card.

“If you ever need anything, don’t hesitate to call.”

Dawn walked back to her apartment, the city lights reflecting her mixed emotions. She had come to Japan seeking a new life, and it seemed fate had plans of its own.

⸻

Chapter 2 — Shintaro’s Perspective

The night was thick with city lights and the distant hum of motorcycles. Shintaro Yamazaki sat quietly on the rooftop of one of his family’s many buildings, the cool breeze brushing through his dark hair. He should have been planning the next move in the escalating turf war, but his mind kept drifting back to the girl — Dawn.

How had someone so unlike him gotten under his skin so easily? A black woman from America, bright, loud, quirky — and yet somehow, utterly captivating.

He had met her just days ago at the ramen shop where she worked part-time. She was fumbling with the chopsticks, blushing when he teased her in broken Japanese. The way she laughed, loud and genuine, cut through the cold world he knew. She didn’t belong here — and maybe that’s what made her so dangerous.

Shintaro frowned, running a hand through his hair. His older brother, Shingen, had warned him to keep his distance. Yakuza life wasn’t made for normal relationships, especially not with outsiders. But the thought of her, her fierce determination to survive in a foreign land, made him want to protect her — maybe even more.

He sighed. The last thing he needed was to be distracted. But for the first time in years, Shintaro wanted something more than power and respect. He wanted Dawn.

⸻

Chapter 3 — Dawn’s Perspective

Japan was a whirlwind — from the neon-lit streets of Akihabara to the quiet temples tucked between skyscrapers. But for Dawn, every day was a challenge.

Her job at the ramen shop was tough. The language barrier, the strict customs, the constant stares. Sometimes, she felt like an alien trapped in a sea of polite strangers.

But she wasn’t alone.

Shintaro kept showing up. Sometimes by chance — or so she thought — to buy ramen or just check on her. He was intimidating, with his cold gaze and commanding presence. But there was something softer beneath, glimpses of a man who didn’t quite know how to handle someone like her.

One afternoon, after a long shift, Dawn found herself sitting on a bench outside the shop. Shintaro appeared beside her, surprising her.

“Hard day?” he asked quietly.

Dawn nodded, twisting a strand of hair. “It’s… different. Harder than I thought.”

He glanced around, then leaned in. “You’re stronger than you think. And you’re not alone.”

For the first time since arriving in Japan, Dawn felt a flicker of hope.

⸻

Here we go — continuing your story with Chapters 4 and 5, back to back:

⸻

Chapter 4 — Shintaro’s Perspective

Shintaro had always kept his distance from personal matters. Romance, feelings — distractions. But with Dawn, it felt different. He told himself he was watching her for safety, for control, for the family’s interests. But every time she laughed or cursed out a vending machine that wouldn’t return her change, something tightened in his chest.

He started noticing more. The way people stared at her on the subway — not just because she was foreign, but because she was beautiful and bold in a way that didn’t shrink to fit Japanese norms. She wore bright colors. Her voice didn’t soften. She was fully herself in a place that rarely allowed it.

And it attracted attention — the wrong kind.

He saw the man first on a Thursday night, loitering across from the ramen shop where Dawn worked. Too casual. Eyes too fixed. Shintaro stayed in the car, watching. The man didn’t approach, but he didn’t walk away either.

A few nights later, Shintaro spotted him again. This time, he got out of the car. The man vanished the moment he caught sight of the yakuza’s sharp glare.

Shintaro said nothing to Dawn. He didn’t want to scare her — or admit how protective he was becoming. But when his older brother, Shingen, caught him looking over CCTV footage of the shop’s street camera, he arched a brow.

“You watching turf,” Shingen asked, “or a girl?”

Shintaro didn’t answer.

“Be careful,” Shingen said, his tone neutral. “You know what Mother would say.”

Shintaro clenched his jaw. He didn’t give a damn what their mother thought. Not anymore.

⸻

Chapter 5 — Dawn’s Perspective

Dawn needed a break. After two weeks of nonstop work and awkward miscommunications with coworkers, she finally said yes to a night out.

“Come on!” Aiko, a hostess at the ramen shop, looped an arm around Dawn’s. “We’ll take you to our favorite izakaya! Shibuya! Cute guys, cheap beer, and yakitori that’ll change your life.”

She was wary, but she needed a release. A little buzz, a little fun. For a while, it was fun — the lights of Shibuya were wild, the food delicious, and the sake… potent. She was laughing louder than usual when she noticed a man watching her from across the bar. Middle-aged, sweaty, too eager.

He came over with drinks she didn’t ask for.

“You’re very exotic,” he slurred in English, placing a hand on the back of her chair. “Want to come to karaoke?”

Dawn pulled away, polite but firm. “I’m with my friends.”

“Aw, don’t be like that…”

Her stomach tightened. Aiko looked nervous. The man moved closer. She fumbled her phone out of her purse, her fingers trembling.

She texted one person.

DAWN: [📍 Location sent] If you’re not busy… I think I need help.

She didn’t expect a reply. But five minutes later, the man was suddenly yanked back by the collar of his shirt and slammed against the wall by a furious blur in black.

Shintaro.

“You have five seconds to walk away,” he said in Japanese, his voice a growl. “Or I break your fingers.”

The man ran. Aiko and the others stared, speechless.

Shintaro turned to her, jaw tight. “Are you okay?”

Dawn nodded, heart pounding. “How did you get here so fast?”

“I was nearby.”

“You were watching me again?”

He didn’t answer. He just stepped closer and gently touched the back of her hand, his fingers rough but careful.

“You’re not alone here,” he said quietly. “Not while I’m around.”

That night, he walked her home. Said nothing. Just held her hand like he’d been waiting for the chance.

⸻

Here’s Chapter 6 from Shingen’s perspective, diving into his growing interest and the brewing brother tension over Dawn:

⸻

Chapter 6 — Shingen’s Perspective

Shingen Yamazaki was never one to get distracted. As the eldest son, the future head of the family, his life was a tightrope of duty and discipline. But lately, the tightrope had felt like it was fraying.

It started when Shintaro began acting… different. More distracted. More protective over a girl Shingen barely knew existed. Dawn. A foreigner. Someone who shouldn’t be anywhere near the Yamazaki bloodline.

At first, Shingen was annoyed. Why was his brother acting like some lovesick puppy? Didn’t he understand what was at stake?

Then, the day he saw Dawn himself, his annoyance shifted to something far more complicated.

She was waiting outside the dojo, brushing her hair with a bright smile. She had a light in her eyes that seemed to challenge the very world around her.

The moment their eyes met, something tightened in Shingen’s chest — a mixture of surprise, something like admiration… and a spark he wasn’t ready to admit.

He told himself it was just curiosity. And yet, when he found himself purposely crossing paths with her—sometimes offering a quiet word, other times watching from afar—he realized it was far more than that.

The problem was Shintaro. His younger brother was already possessive, and Shingen wasn’t about to lose control—especially over something so unpredictable.

That night, Shingen confronted Shintaro in the family’s private lounge.

“You’re reckless,” Shingen said sharply. “She’s not just any woman. You can’t just—”

“I’m not asking for permission,” Shintaro snapped back, eyes flashing. “And neither am I giving you any.”

The tension between them was thick enough to cut. But beneath the anger, both knew something was changing. Not just about Dawn — but about the family, the future, and their own bond.

Shingen took a deep breath, finally breaking the silence.

“Then we do this right. Together.”

Shintaro’s glare softened just a fraction.

“Together,” he agreed.

⸻

Chapter Eight

The Space Between Us

There were moments I thought I might be dreaming—moments where the air smelled like cedar and cologne, where warmth wrapped around me like silk sheets and sinew. Two bodies pressed close, tangled in sleep, limbs draped over me like they were afraid I’d vanish.

But I didn’t vanish.

I just lay there, listening to the slow, heavy breaths of the Yamazaki twins—Shintaro’s breath deeper and steady, Shingen’s more restless, like he dreamed in clenched fists and unfinished sentences. My fingers brushed against the tattoo on Shintaro’s side, the one I hadn’t had the courage to ask about yet. It curved along his ribs like a secret, wrapping him in something ancient and binding.

My skin still hummed from the night before.

The kind of night that made your soul ache.

The kind of night that ruined you for anyone else.

⸻

It wasn’t always like this. Not even close.

Three months ago, I was a stranger on a Tokyo train, clutching a government-mandated Welcome to Japan pamphlet in one hand and my phone’s translation app in the other. I’d moved here for the job—a teaching contract at a private international school in Shibuya. The pay was good. The apartment was clean, small, and close to the train. The loneliness was crushing.

The language barrier, the rigid rules I hadn’t been taught, the way eyes followed me—curious, judgmental, sometimes hungry.

Being a Black foreign woman in Japan came with complications I couldn’t have predicted.

Being their woman… that came with a whole different kind of fire.

⸻

Shintaro was the first to ask me out again after that night.

He didn’t call it a date, of course.

He just sent a text:

“Wear something warm. We’re leaving the city.”

No emojis. No explanation. Just coordinates and command.

I met him near the Shinkansen station, a large thermos in one hand, scarf wrapped twice around my neck. He had two coffees waiting, both from some quiet café he knew I liked.

We barely spoke during the ride. He held my hand.

We arrived in Hakone, where the trees were painted in fire-orange and honey-gold. The smell of sulfur from the hot springs wove through the mountain air. Shintaro didn’t say much. But his hand never left the small of my back. When he finally spoke, it wasn’t flirtation.

“My father died protecting this region,” he said, his voice low as we stood near a steaming pool. “I was fifteen. Shingen was seventeen. Everything we have—this name, this territory—it was paid for in blood.”

I didn’t know what to say. So I reached out and took his hand. Just squeezed.

His thumb brushed over mine like he was memorizing my pulse.

That night, we sat in a private onsen beneath the stars. Steam curled around our shoulders like a secret. He leaned back, the muscles in his chest rising with each breath, eyes half-closed.

He looked at me like he wanted to say something. Then he kissed me slow—once, twice, and again—before carrying me back inside, his mouth never leaving my skin.

He took his time with me that night.

Worshiped me like I was something holy.

⸻

Shingen was the storm after the quiet.

He found me one night outside my job, leaning against a cherry blossom tree, his black car idling across the street. His coat flared behind him like a shadow.

“You looked bored,” he said, stepping into my space, grinning with that arrogant confidence that always made me want to slap him and straddle him at the same time.

“I had a long day,” I said.

“Let me fix it.”

He took me to a rooftop club I’d never heard of—an invitation-only place that smelled like money and sex and danger. He held me close while we danced, his hand just above the swell of my hip, his mouth brushing my ear as he told me all the wicked things he wanted to do to me.

Then he did them.

Back at his penthouse, he pinned me to the floor-to-ceiling window, Tokyo glittering beneath us, his voice hoarse and rough as he groaned into my neck.

But even with all that heat, there was something deeper.

Afterward, he wrapped his arms around me and murmured, “You’re the first person who makes me think I could be more than this.”

More than a name. More than a title. More than a weapon.

⸻

Two nights later, I received a message from both of them.

“Dinner. Rooftop. 9 PM. Wear red.”

I arrived confused, heart racing, wearing a silk dress that hugged my hips like temptation and made me feel a little too vulnerable.

They were waiting for me, side by side.

Both in black suits, shirts unbuttoned just enough to be obscene.

The view behind them was all glittering skyline and moonlight.

“I don’t understand,” I said, stepping toward them. “Why… both of you?”

Shintaro looked at Shingen. Shingen gave a tired sigh. And then Shintaro said:

“Because we both want you. And we’re not willing to fight over you.”

My heart stuttered.

“You want to share me?” I whispered.

Shingen shrugged. “You’re a goddess, Dawn. Why should only one of us get to worship you?”

Heat flooded my core. I should’ve said something—asked for more time, clarity, logic.

But logic burned away fast when they both moved toward me, eyes hungry.

They kissed me at the same time.

One at my lips. One at my neck.

Hands on my back. On my thighs. Lifting me. Laying me down.

I was silk and fire between them—undone by worship and weight and whispered promises. Every kiss from Shintaro was a vow. Every thrust from Shingen was a claim.

And I let them.

I let them make me theirs.

⸻

That night, beneath Tokyo’s watchful eye, I stopped being a stranger.

I became something else.

Something dangerous.

Something treasured.

Something… Yamazaki.

Absolutely. Here is the next full chapter, continuing in the rich, novel-style tone with emotion, sensuality, and growing tension. This chapter builds on their polyamorous bond while bringing in deeper cultural immersion, character development, and the beginning of conflict.

⸻

Chapter Nine

Between Silk and Steel

Japan in spring was a symphony.

Plum blossoms gave way to cherry, and the streets buzzed with pastel couples and the clicking of vending machine buttons. Tourists wandered through shrines in awkward geta, and young girls in frilled skirts giggled under the weight of parasols and plastic shopping bags. Harajuku bloomed like a fever dream of lace and glitter.

And somewhere in the middle of all of it—me.

Black. Curvy. Loud when I wasn’t supposed to be, quiet when I was expected to perform.

Mine was a body and presence not built to blend. And in Tokyo, I stood out like midnight against porcelain.

But when I walked between Shingen and Shintaro, their hands brushing mine, their tattoos peeking from behind perfectly cut sleeves, I didn’t feel like a foreigner.

I felt like a secret weapon.

⸻

It was Shintaro’s idea to take me to Akihabara and Harajuku—his way of making up for what he called “being a cold bastard about my feelings.”

I’d mentioned in passing that I loved anime and plushies and wanted to try Lolita fashion—half-joking, half-serious.

“Let’s play tourists for a day,” he’d said with a rare, almost boyish smile.

The result? I found myself squeezed into the middle of Tokyo’s nerd paradise, arms full of shopping bags, cheeks aching from smiling, and a towering, growling Yakuza boyfriend trying to win me a Pikachu plushie from a claw machine.

“You have to tap it just before it hits the prize,” I laughed, coaching Shintaro through the controls. “And don’t jerk the joystick like it’s someone who owes you money.”

He glared at the machine like it personally insulted his honor.

“Why is this rigged?” he growled. “I’ve threatened people for less.”

“You can’t threaten the claw, Shin.”

“You can, and I will.”

Shingen was no better. After watching us for ten minutes, he stepped up and inserted a bill like a general walking into war.

“Give me two minutes,” he said. “I’ve taken down gangs for less effort.”

He didn’t get the Pikachu.

But he got seven plushies, including a pink Kirby, a fat Jigglypuff, and one very smug-looking Eevee that he declared my new guardian spirit.

They wouldn’t let me carry a single one.

“We spoil what’s ours,” Shingen murmured against my ear as he placed a shopping bag in the back seat of the car.

I rolled my eyes. “You’re both insufferable.”

“You love it,” Shintaro said, kissing the top of my head.

God help me—I did.

⸻

Later, back at my apartment, I collapsed on the couch, overwhelmed by gifts and attention and the soft ache of being adored so thoroughly.

Shintaro kicked off his shoes, loosened his tie, and collapsed beside me, grabbing the Kirby plush and tossing it at his brother.

Shingen caught it without flinching.

“Cute,” he said. “Like her.”

“I’m not cute,” I protested, curling my legs beneath me.

“No,” Shintaro agreed, his eyes dark. “You’re beautiful. Dangerous. And ours.”

That word echoed in my chest.

Ours.

“What does that mean?” I asked softly. “Us, the three of us. Together like this.”

Neither of them answered right away. Shingen sat forward, forearms on his thighs, his eyes unreadable.

“It means we trust you enough to share what we’ve never shared,” he said finally. “Not our power. Not our empire. Not our bodies.”

“It means we want to keep you safe, even from each other,” Shintaro added.

“But I’m not part of your world,” I whispered.

“You are now.”

They kissed me slowly then—first one, then the other. And I let myself fall.

Fingers curled in hair. Warm mouths on my skin. The couch became a battleground of tongues and touch, the air thick with promises unspoken. They undressed me like a ritual, careful and reverent. And when they moved together—around me, inside me—I saw stars.

They didn’t take me like a toy to be passed around.

They worshipped me like a treasure to be shared.

Loved me like the storm I was.

⸻

Hours later, I lay between them, a sheet tangled around my waist, their breaths steady against my neck and hip.

And in that rare, perfect moment of peace, I realized something terrifying and true:

I didn’t just belong in Japan.

I belonged to them.

And they—these ruthless, dangerous men—belonged to me.

Let me know if you want an update with more chapters

[jimenyannyantls]

[18trip] Toxic x Neighbor - Track 01

please let me know of any mistakes I've made! I am still learning

-- Estonia --

Kuguri: Well it looks like we've finally reached the city.

Ten: Woww, it does feel like I'm in a foreign country. There aren't many Asians here so I kinda stand out.

ah, but you seem used to it Kuguri-san. Haven't you lived abroad for a while?

Kuguri: I could say the same to you, don't you also travel a lot?

aren't College students beings who love freedom after all?

Ten: ahaha, I'm not like that at all.

Kuguri & Ten: ....

Ten: ("A pair study trip to increase our experience as ward mayors" though I wanted to avoid doing this as much as I could)

Kuguri: (I can't believe how fast the timing of it all is, to be allocated like this.)

Ten: Well, it seems we won't have a tour guide with us.

Kuguri: it's good we aren't restricted then.

Ten: well I still have to explore and write a report

Kuguri: I'm sure you'll be able to do so.

Ten: eh leave it to someone else I'm no good at it

(ah but..)

Kuguri: (out of all the members it could have been)

Ten: (this isn't a bad choice at all)

-- Hama House --

Renga: Ten! Kuguri! I heard that you 2 are the pair for this study trip?

will you be okay? Have you been to Estonia before?

Ten: ehh, I guess kinda?

Renga: I- I see!

if you want to study the language I know some apps and videos that can help! I can study with you!

if you know the language you'll be fine even if you get lost or get into an accident--

Yodaka: Renga do you really think those 2 are the type to panic if they were faced with that?

Renga: hmm well- if it's Ten and Kuguri- those 2 wouldn't panic.

Yodaka: those 2 will be okay

Kuguri: Oya Ten and I will be in a country we don't know anything about, we don't know what we'll encounter but Yodaka seems so cold about it

Yodaka: I think that even if you were to be in such a situation, you guys would be able to turn it into some joke

Kuguri: unlike you who is constantly dozing off, I think the possibility of anything happening is slim

Yodaka: haha, did I say that?... I'm looking forward to the souveniers

Renga: Ten, I'm looking forward to the sake!

Ten: let's hope nothing happens-

-- Estonia --

Ten: Well, I hope you can have fun

Kuguri: sure.

(... Murakumo Ten. I don't know anything about him, his past, or whatever. not that I care)

(but looking into his eyes, I can tell our feelings are the same)

Ten: (for example, even if we separated and did our things-

Kuguri wouldn't say anything and would just write a false report.)

Kuguri: (well, I can just say he's a boring guy since he doesn't behave in the way I usually like.)

Ten: (well if it's not needed, we shouldn't separate. if we did I'd probably be forced to write the report)

Well then let's get some coffee and decide where we should go.

...what is that?

(there's some middle-aged man buried under a pile of cats, bears, and other items in that wagon...)

Kuguri: it looks like a marzipan* stall.

Ten: so that's marzipan?

Those sweets that are on cakes sometimes, women get pretty happy when you give them some.

Kuguri: how cute isn't it to be able to appease someone with nothing but a mixture of almond flour, sugar, and water.

Ten: I saw that it was a Tallinn* specialty. Maybe I can use it for my report.

Kuguri: why not ask the man himself?

Buried Marzipan Shopkeeper: ......

Ten: (he has a real stubborn look on his face and isn't moving an inch, it's kinda eerie..)

Kuguri: Well don't just leave him there, go talk to him. You learned some Estonian from Renga, didn't you?

Ten: I didn't so I'll just use a translation app

Buried Marzipan Shopkeeper: ..........

Ten: .....

Kuguri: ......

Translation app: "I couldn't get that. please say it again."

Ten: let's go to a cafe.

A young man wearing an apron: "ah! Father-in-law! you said you'd greet the customers when they'd show up!"

"I'm sorry my father isn't very good at speaking.."

Ten: "ahaha so you're following him? that's tough"*

Son-in-law of stall owner: "Yes.. but the marzipan my father-in-law makes is so good, I want as many people as possible to try it!"

"We're still pretty new but we aren't in any way inferior to the longer established stores!"

"How about it? could you guys take a look?"

Kuguri: hmm

Buried Marzipan Shopkeeper: ..... if you're not buying, get lost.*

Kuguri: ......

Son-in-law of stall owner: "Father!"

Kuguri: Hey, don't be mean.*

some notes

Marzipan is a sweet confectionary

Tallinn is the capital of Estonia

I'm assuming Ten is using the translation app to speak with the guy because the text is displayed differently

Kuguri and the shopkeeper both say this in english

masterpost • next chapter ->

[h0neytalk]

Mango v. LingQ v. Anki

I’ve been using the above apps for a while now and I couldn’t find a ton of somewhat easy to understand comparisons/explanations of how to use these various cult favorites. I figured I would make one if anyone is wondering where to start or making a departure from Duolingo.

Standard langblr disclaimer: I am ultimately just a person on the internet, I’m not an expert in language learning or a world renowned polyglot. I’m not even an expert in any of these apps/programs. These are all just thoughts and opinions I have about the value of each app to myself as an average consumer trying to learn a language and intended to help other people decide where to spend their time.

Anki

Anki is an open source spaced repetition flashcard program. It has an incredibly loyal fan base of med students and people who just want to learn things. This is also the one I have the least experience with so I recommend diving into forums and other blogs who go in depth on all the ways you can use this program. The web version is completely free and there is an official paid mobile app. There are also unofficial paid apps, this is the source of great drama and discourse and I’m not touching that here. Spaced repetition essentially means that the program will present you with cards at intervals designed to maximize your retention. When you flip over a card, you have four options that boil down to: fail, hard, good, easy. This is how the program determines what to show you and when.

Key Features:

The main draw is obviously the spaced repetition system. It’s much easier and more effective than sorting manually.

Because it’s open source, there is a way to customize the settings and cards to do basically whatever you want. There are also tons of premade decks to import and either use as-is or use as a base.

The online web version is completely free.

You can add really any media type to the cards. You can add sound clips of pronunciations, images, even drawings and diagrams.

Having the four options is particularly useful for the nuances of learning a language. For example, for general vocabulary decks I’ll assign one “point” to general meaning, tense/part of speech, and pronunciation. Getting the general meaning but not the other two means I select “hard” when I flip the card.

Best uses:

Vocab or learning a new alphabet. Specifically for drilling any of those “slippery” words. I don’t know if this happens to anyone else, but there are some vocab words that just refuse to stick with me. I’ve found the Anki SRS does help pin them down.

Potential downsides:

While there are decks to import, there could always be errors that you won’t catch just seeing single vocab words with no context.

The available customization is labor intensive.

The UI for the official app and web version isn’t super slick and intuitive.

Even the best flashcards are ultimately just flashcards and have limits to their usefulness.

Mango

Mango is similar to Babbel or other programs that focus on speaking (and doing so quickly). I much prefer Mango to Babbel or any other similar app and find that it does what it says it will. Languages are split into units. Each unit has chapters and each chapter has lessons. A lesson will start with an optional pre quiz and a brief recording of a conversation that you will be able to follow by the end of the lesson. Each lesson concludes with a listening and reading quiz. It also utilizes spaced repetition and gives you daily flashcards to review.

You learn based on phrases rather than individual words. A long sentence will be presented in its entirety. The lesson will then go through each word individually before combining them into phrases and, finally, the full sentence from the start. Then you will learn vocabulary needed for variations. The activities are fairly standard for a language app: speaking, listening, multiple choice. You can also turn off the interactive feature and have the lesson run as a “speak and repeat” style podcast. It tracks the hours you’ve spent learning a language and there is an activity log, but no in depth stats.

Key features:

It is focused on speaking immediately.

Has a ton of languages and several dialects for those languages.

Focuses on phrases and patterns that are most useful if traveling or having brief, friendly interactions.

Presents information in a digestible way and isn’t overwhelming.

Includes culture and grammar notes.

$12.99 a month but most public libraries and schools give you free access. You can also set up a household account for multiple people and split the cost with friends/family.

The first lesson of any language is free, and some rare and indigenous languages are completely free to access.

Audio is native speakers. When you record yourself, your vocal wave pattern appears that you can compare with the native speaker.

Best uses:

If you are traveling soon and want to navigate basic, friendly interactions, this will get you there quick. Within 1-3 months easily, depending on the language and how often you practice.

I also recommend this as a starting place when you are totally new to a language or to learning a language in general. The structure is excellent for getting a feel for things.

This is also great if you studied a language previously and need to refresh your memory or get back into it.

Potential downsides:

The “record yourself” feature is fairly buggy and often freezes up. It can also be annoying to try and match the timing of the native speaker, but you don’t have to record audio to progress past those lesson points so it isn’t too much of an inconvenience.

It isn’t meant for total fluency. As stated, the lessons (at least that I have done) are focused on speaking while traveling and making small talk. Some of the early lessons teach you to say “sorry, I don’t speak [x]”. Which is very useful if going abroad soon, but less so if you would rather just be able to speak that language.

The regimented nature can make it feel slow/too easy if you are also using other methods.

The review flashcards only have a binary “yes/no” option which feels annoying for longer phrases or after using Anki-style cards.

With any course like this, you aren’t going to have much choice in the vocab you learn or prioritizing topics.

LingQ

I am honestly surprised I don’t see more about this. I think they have been making a bunch of updates recently so maybe the version I’m using is miles above previous ones, but it is shockingly powerful. It’s also the hardest to explain (which may be why I don’t see much written about it and why this is going to be a long section.) LingQ (pronounced “link”) operates on a hybrid comprehensible/massive input model. While Anki prioritizes memorization and Mango priorities speaking, LingQ focuses on comprehension and listening. LingQ is comprised of courses which are made up of lessons. There are pre-built courses made by LingQ but the real goal is to make your own (more on that later).

Each lesson within a course has an audio recording and a written transcript. Words you haven’t seen before are highlighted blue (when you start, that’s every word). You click the word to see the definition and assign it one of 5 statuses: ignore, new, recognized, familiar, learned, or known. “Ignore” is used for things like names or borrowed words, they won’t be counted in your stats. “Known” is for words you knew before seeing them. You likely won’t have any of these if you’re starting a new language with no prior experience. Levels 1-3 highlight the word yellow and it becomes a LingQ. You can create a LingQq using as many words as you want. You can manually change the status of a word when you see it. You can also do various review activities similar to Mango, and if you get a word right twice in a row it will automatically bump up a level. You can always adjust it back down if needed. LingQ is very focused on the value of listening to a language. You can add lessons to playlists and listen to them like a podcast.

My personal favorite part of LingQ is the ability to import lessons. Especially YouTube videos. The site has a browser extension that will import any content in your target language into a lesson as an embedded item. You can then read/listen to/watch that content right in the app and get “credit” for it. LingQ’s statistics are some of the coolest/most motivating I’ve seen. You get coins for completing tasks but those are really just to see a number get bigger. It also tracks the words you’ve read, how many words you know, the hours listened, and speaking/writing if you utilize their tutor marketplace or writing forum.

The free trial is very limited but it’s enough to poke around and get a feel for things before signing up, not necessarily to learn anything substantial. The monthly membership is $12.95 and there’s a $199 lifetime option as well. I definitely recommend spending some time playing around at the free level and then upping to monthly if you like it.

Key features:

The ability to import lessons. It will also create a simplified version of shorter content. This is an AI generated summary of whatever you’ve imported. I use this for videos where natural speaking cadence can make it hard to parse things sometimes. It’s easier/more productive if I know generally what’s going on.

The creation of LingQs. I just think it’s a really cool and useful way to approach comprehensible input. You can visually see the yellow fading as you understand more and more of a lesson.

You can export LingQs to Anki (theoretically). I’ve never done this myself and I’ve seen some forum posts saying it doesn’t work super well all the time but it is a built in feature.

In-depth stats tracking and the ability to consume all the content easily in app. The stats would be annoying if it wasn’t literally easier to watch a video via LingQ than on YouTube.

Community features. There are community challenges (like Duolingo) but also a forum to submit writing that will be corrected by native speakers and a marketplace of tutors to easily sign up for speaking lessons. The forum is free and volunteer based, but scrolling through I didn’t see anyone who didn’t have at least one reply. The tutors are paid at an hourly rate and you can also pay by the word to have them correct written work.

Super flexible. There really isn’t any one right way to use this app so you can structure it however you like and set your own goals/metrics.

Playlists and focus on listening. It really does help to constantly be immersed in what a language sounds like, and being able to read and listen to the same thing has been so nice.

Actually decently helpful emails and not just spam.

Best for:

Hardcore language learners. The app/site provides some guidance on how to get started and the basic idea, but you’ll need to play around with it and spend some time reading forum posts or the emails they send to find what works for you.

Getting to higher levels of fluency after maxing out other apps/self study methods.

People looking to spend a lot of time on language learning because they enjoy it. This isn’t snarky, but there’s a difference between wanting or needing to learn Spanish to communicate at work or on vacation and just really enjoying learning languages. This is an app for language nerds.

Potential downsides:

Very overwhelming. They technically say you can jump right in with 0 knowledge of a language and be good to go, but I think it would be hard to make a lot of progress unless you’ve learned other languages before. If you’re looking to learn a new language for the first time, I recommend starting with Mango to get your bearings.

Doesn’t teach new alphabets. This isn’t a huge issue for Mango since it’s speaking focused, but I wouldn’t jump into Arabic or Russian on LingQ without spending some time learning the alphabet with other methods.

User generated definitions. This is a double edged sword. The definitions being linked to sites like Globse can lead to wrong definitions, but because you’re seeing things in context it’s easier to catch. And looking into what a phrase means is a great way to learn if you are really into languages.

The import feature isn’t 100% perfect when it comes to videos. It will only create a transcript when the video has captions enabled or a transcript provided, otherwise it just shows up as an audio file. It will also sometimes randomly just not be able to import a video which can be annoying, but in the grand scheme of things these are very minor annoyances.

Time commitment. The method doesn’t require a ton of actively sitting down and reviewing vocab or reading new words, but it does assume that you’ll swap out listening to music or podcasts while going about your day with listening to content in your target language. This is all well and good unless you really enjoy listening to specific content while doing tasks or need help not getting distracted. It’s going to be a lot of incomprehensible noise for a while before you can parse it. This might not be a downside as much as something to keep in mind when considering how effective it’s going to be for you.

Not as active of a community. Maybe it’s just for my particular languages, but there definitely aren’t a ton of people actively doing things like challenges. This really doesn’t matter much to me but it could be a bummer if you’re looking for that.

tl;dr just tell me how to learn things

If you need to learn a new alphabet, start with that. Otherwise, Mango to get your bearings, Anki to add to your vocab as you get bored with Mango, and LingQ to realistically get “fluent”. Then start writing and speaking either using tutors or people you know or local language groups.

[ahmadaltahhan]

Strengths and Weaknesses: My Starting Point

Stepping into this journey as a student entrepreneur has given me a chance to take stock of what I bring to the table—the good, the not-so-polished, and everything in between.

One of my biggest strengths is problem-solving. I love figuring things out, especially when I have to get creative with limited resources. Take last semester, for example—my laptop broke, and instead of rushing to buy a new one, I scoured the web for used parts and fixed it myself. That hands-on experience not only saved me money but also sparked the idea for Refined Finds. Turns out, resourcefulness can be the mother of invention!

I’m also quick to adapt and eager to learn. Since I don’t have a formal business background, I’ve been soaking up knowledge wherever I can—watching videos, reading articles, and asking tons of questions about marketing, pricing, and what makes customers tick. I also take pride in my attention to detail and my customer-first approach. For me, it’s not just about selling affordable products; they have to be reliable and well-presented too.

Of course, I’ve got my weak spots too. I tend to overthink decisions, especially when it comes to pricing or choosing inventory. And while I’m comfortable with the creative side of things, the financial side—budgeting, tracking expenses, projecting profits—is still new territory for me.

But I’m working on it. I plan to lean into course materials, ask for feedback from peers and my instructor, and start simple with tools like Excel or free budgeting apps. Most of all, I want to embrace the trial-and-error process—starting small, learning as I go, and building confidence along the way.

Entrepreneurship is all about growth, and I’m ready to learn, stumble, and keep moving forward.

[bluejay-writes]

MysticTober Day 3: Common Sense, Ch. 1

Prompt: Ending / Prologue

Pairing: Saeran/MC (Retta)

Wordcount: 1402

Author's Notes: I always loved the potential endings in the prologue for Another Story, and this one has been sitting around in my brain for awhile. I thought I'd be able to knock it out as a one-shot, but as usual Saeran has other ideas. So here's Chapter 1. This fic will eventually be finished - that sounds ominous, but I don't have another longfic in the works right now, and I have a couple other chapters planned for this during MysticTober, so! #soon.

You can also read this on Ao3 if that's more your speed!

Chapter 1: Apology Required.

Retta blinked and looked at her phone. The app wasn’t even on the app store anymore?  She’d uninstalled that app right away after the developer had tried to convince her to get into a car blindfolded and go who-knows-where to “test a game”.  She was in school for Computer Science, and even if she wasn’t, she wasn’t stupid enough to go somewhere when no one knew where she would be. 

The worst part was, she really wanted to learn game development, especially chat games.  There were so many stories she was just dying to tell in that fashion… but she really didn't know how to get started. Also, she was mortified. She’d had to tell him that she wasn’t interested in meeting him. That she didn’t need to know him.  And that… that was too much.  It was a lie, and even if it hadn’t been it was the worst kind of thing to tell someone. And she’d said it. He’d sounded so heartbroken, all she wanted to do was apologize.  

She thought maybe if she reinstalled the app he’d yell at her or something so she could apologize, but it didn’t even exist.  She’d tried looking up the R.F.A. that was mentioned, but all she found was a charity organization that had nothing to do with game development, and they didn’t have an app or anything, so it couldn’t have been them.

“Hey, Retta, Ray’s tea is ready.” Her coworker, Janelle, grinned at her. “Why don’t you take it over to him? You know he only comes here when you’re working.  I won’t tell the boss your boyfriend hangs out with you at work.” She winked, and Retta sighed. He’s not my boyfriend. She’d considered giving him her number, but he was always gone any time she worked up the nerve.  And trying to tell Janelle that he wasn’t her boyfriend was just asking for more teasing. She knew. She’d tried.

Retta picked up the tray and walked over to Ray’s table. 

“Ray? Your tea’s ready.” He looked up at her with a start, and then smiled.

“Thank you, Retta.” He said, softly. “Do you want to sit?”

She looked back at Janelle who waved both hands at her, and she sighed and sat down.

“What’s bothering you, princess?”

She pursed her lips, then sighed again. “You’re a customer. One of our best regulars. You don’t need to listen to my sob story.”

He shut his laptop, and took a sip of his tea. “But what if I want to?”

“Are you sure? It’s…”

“If it’s you, I’m sure, Retta.”

She felt herself blush, and looked down at the table.  This boy was like a fairy tale prince, and she didn’t deserve his attention, but oh how she craved it.  Would he think worse of her? Well, he was waiting.

“I hurt someone.” She started with the bare truth. “They needed my help, but I was too afraid to help them, and when they questioned me I lashed out.”

“Oh.”

He seemed disappointed.  That was fine, Retta was ashamed of her actions, she wasn’t surprised he was disappointed in her. She should never have sat down. Not during her shift.

As if to cement this thought, a wave of college students came in the door, and Retta jumped to her feet. “Oh! I have to get back to it.”  She turned her bright customer service smile back on, and turned to head back to the desk. Ray caught her arm, and she looked back at him.

“Same time tomorrow, princess?”

Retta shook her head. “I don’t work tomorrow. Thursday, though.”  She ran off to the counter before she could see his response - she didn’t know why she’d told him that. Maybe because he wanted to listen to her? He’d sounded disappointed in her, but he still wanted to see her so… maybe she hadn’t ruined her chances too badly.

Thursday was a slow day at the cafe. It would be the perfect day to actually get a chance to sit and talk to Ray.

Retta perched at the counter, watching the few people who came in and out.  She shouldn’t be surprised, it was a gorgeous day, and Thursdays were slow days anyway.  When Ray’s usual arrival time came and went with no sign of him, Retta wilted internally. He hadn’t come. Maybe he’d said that just so he could get away without her trying to apologize for disappointing him? Great, now she had two people to apologize to. Classic Retta.

Retta tied a clean apron over her dress, pinned on her nametag, and strode across the floor to unlock the front door of the cafe.  Fridays were busy days for them, and it was one of the only days where she worked the early shift.  She’d already been there since 4 helping the baker get everything set up, but noon seemed like an eternity away. She bit back a yawn and looked up to see their first patron of the day, standing outside the door.

“Ray? Here already? It’s only 6!” He was a computer nerd. He shouldn’t be awake at this time of day. Didn’t that go against some kind of natural law? But, then, she was also a computer nerd and she was here, so… maybe she was thinking too much into it.

“The other girl you were working with on Tuesday… Jenny? said you were here until noon today.  I couldn’t get here yesterday. I tried to tell you, but you ran off so fast.”  He chuckled ruefully. “I’m an airhead. I should know your schedule by now.” He yawned. “Oh. I need some caffeine, I think.”

“Hey, you came to the right place for that.” Retta said, and led him over to his usual spot - near the plants and the window, right by an outlet. “Your usual tea?” She was trying so hard not to think about the fact that he really was here just for her. Well for her and caffeine.

“Yes, please. And something sweet. I know your baker’s here, I can smell their work.”

“We’ve got—“ she started, but he cut her off.

“You pick. I trust your judgment completely.”

Retta blinked. “High praise.” she muttered, but then grinned at him. “Alright, I’ll be back shortly!”

She made his drink - a Victorian London Fog - and set aside two of the Apple-Honey tarts that the Baker had made special for today.  By the time his tea was ready, Janelle swept in and took up her throne at the register. 

“Oh wow, your suitor’s here already?” She said, winking at Retta.

“My lord, Janelle! I just think he’s cute okay? Cut it out before you actually ruin my chances!” Retta hissed, and then covered her own mouth, stunned at the words she’d said. Janelle just cackled and got to serving the new customers.

“Go take your break with the little prince over there. I know you need it, you’re dead on your feet.” Janelle shooed her away. and Retta wasted no time grabbing the tray with his tea, her coffee, and the tarts.

“…May I sit with you?” Retta asked when she paused at Ray’s table, and he smiled, closing his laptop and gesturing to the seat across from him, the same way he had a few days prior. 

“Of course, princess. I’d hold your chair for you, but alas, it’s a booth.”

Retta giggled and slid in across from him, passing him one of the tarts.

“Honey and Apple tarts.”

“Oh. They look divine.” He smiled, and cut himself a bite. The blissful face he made was worth every minute of her interminably early morning.

“Listen, before I get pulled out of my break early or something, I wanted to apologize. You seemed so disappointed in me on Tuesday, and I really don’t want you to be. I was sighing because I.. because I really want to apologize to that person, but I don’t have a way to contact them, is all.”

Ray paused, and shook his head. “It wasn’t you I was disappointed in. It was me.  Hold on.”  He opened his laptop and did whatever ten arcane things it took to unlock it and then turned it around to face her. What she was seeing was the same green glitched code that had shown up on that app when it glitched.

“I’m the one who disappointed you, Retta. I’m Unknown.”

[upb73]

What is UPB Token? How You Can Start With Just ₹100 and Earn Big Profits!

In today’s fast-paced digital world, cryptocurrency and blockchain-based tokens are gaining tremendous popularity. Among these rising stars, the UPB Token has recently caught the attention of investors, tech-savvy youth, and fintech enthusiasts across India. But what exactly is the UPB Token, and how can you potentially earn big profits by investing as little as ₹100?

In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the UPB Token in simple, easy-to-understand language. Whether you're a beginner or someone already exploring digital finance, this could be your next big opportunity!

🌐 What is UPB Token?

UPB Token stands for Universal Payment Bank Token. It is a digital asset designed to simplify, speed up, and secure online payments, banking, and financial transactions, especially in underserved or semi-banked areas of India.

Unlike traditional cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum, UPB Token is purpose-driven, focusing on enhancing financial inclusion and day-to-day digital payments.

🔹 Think of UPB Token as a smart currency that works inside a digital banking ecosystem designed for the future.

💡 Key Features of UPB Token

Let’s explore why UPB Token is becoming so popular:

✅ 1. Low Investment Entry

You can start with as little as ₹100, making it highly accessible for students, small business owners, and first-time investors.

✅ 2. Secure & Transparent

Powered by blockchain technology, all UPB Token transactions are encrypted, traceable, and protected from fraud.

✅ 3. Instant Payments

Use UPB Token to pay for mobile recharges, utility bills, money transfers, and more — all within seconds.

✅ 4. Growing Ecosystem

The UPB Token is part of a larger Universal Payment Bank platform, meaning it can be used across different services, apps, and vendor networks.

✅ 5. Rewards & Cashback

Early adopters and users often get bonus tokens, referral rewards, or cashback, making it a smart way to earn passively.

💰 How Can You Start With ₹100?

One of the best parts of UPB Token is that you don’t need thousands of rupees to begin. Here's a step-by-step guide on how you can start investing in UPB Token with just ₹100:

📝 Step 1: Register on the UPB Platform

Visit the official website or app of Universal Payment Bank and create your account. You’ll need to complete basic KYC using your Aadhaar and PAN card.

🪙 Step 2: Buy UPB Tokens

Once your account is active, go to the “Buy Tokens” section. Enter the amount you want to invest—you can start from ₹100.

📲 Step 3: Store Tokens in Your Wallet

The platform provides you with a secure digital wallet where your tokens are stored. This wallet can be used for transactions or to hold your investment.

💹 Step 4: Watch Value Grow

As UPB Token’s ecosystem expands, the value of each token may increase. Just like stocks or mutual funds, you can hold them until their value grows or use them in daily transactions.

📈 How Can You Earn Profits?

Let’s get to the exciting part — earning from UPB Token! There are multiple ways you can turn a small investment into significant returns.

💎 1. Value Appreciation

As more people adopt UPB Tokens and the platform grows, demand increases, which can raise the token price over time.

Example: If you buy 100 tokens at ₹1 each today and the value goes up to ₹5 later, your ₹100 becomes ₹500.

🔁 2. Trading

You can buy tokens at a low price and sell them when the value increases on supported exchanges or through the platform.

🎁 3. Referral Rewards

Many users earn free tokens by inviting others to join the platform. It's a win-win — your friend learns something new, and you get rewarded!

💼 4. Business Integration

If you’re a merchant or small business owner, you can start accepting UPB Tokens as payment. It reduces transaction fees and gives you access to tech-friendly customers.

📊 Real Example: Small Start, Big Growth

Let’s look at a hypothetical scenario:

Initial Investment: ₹100

Token Price at Entry: ₹1

Tokens Owned: 100

After 6 Months, the Token price rises to ₹4.

Value Now: ₹400

Profit: ₹300 (300% Return)

This is just a simplified example — actual profits depend on the market, demand, and adoption of the token. But it shows how even a small investment can grow over time.

🛡️ Is UPB Token Safe?

Yes, as long as you use official platforms and keep your login credentials secure. Like any digital asset, UPB Token is vulnerable to scams if used carelessly. Here are some tips:

✅ Always use the official UPB app or website.

✅ Do not share OTPs, passwords, or wallet keys.

✅ Don’t fall for “too good to be true” schemes.

✅ Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) where available.

UPB is aiming to operate under RBI-compliant frameworks, which increases its legitimacy.

📌 Who Should Consider UPB Token?

📱 Students & Young Professionals: Learn digital finance and start small.

🧑‍💼 Small Business Owners: Accept payments and expand customer options.

💡 Early Investors: Get in before the price surges.

🧓 Unbanked/Rural Citizens: Use tokens for daily utility in areas where banking is limited.

🌟 Future of UPB Token

UPB Token isn’t just a digital coin; it’s part of a bigger movement — Digital India. With the rising popularity of UPI, digital wallets, and cashless payments, UPB is positioning itself to be a major player.

In the coming years, we could see:

Integration with e-commerce platforms

Acceptance in retail stores

Listing on major token exchanges

Expansion in financial products like microloans or digital gold

📝 Final Thoughts

Investing in the UPB Token is not just about making money — it's about being part of a financial revolution. With just ₹100, you’re opening the door to digital banking, blockchain-based payments, and possibly long-term wealth.

Of course, every investment comes with risk, so make sure to do your research, stay updated, and avoid greedy decisions. But if you’re looking for a low-risk, high-potential entry into the digital finance world, UPB Token is worth exploring.

[creatureofmimics]

BREAKING NEWS: Revolutionary AI Scheduling Model Disrupts Multi-Billion Dollar Industries

IndustriesMay 14, 2025 – In a groundbreaking development set to redefine time management across education, fitness, and the arts, researchers from the Zurich Institute of Technology (ZIT) have unveiled an artificial intelligence model capable of autonomously optimizing human schedules with an accuracy rate exceeding 98.7%.Dubbed "ChronoPilot," the new system leverages deep contextual learning to interpret not only user preferences but also emotional states, productivity trends, and even regional weather forecasts to dynamically tailor personal and group schedules. In early trials, the system outperformed existing scheduling platforms by over 400% in efficiency and conflict resolution.The implications span vast sectors. Educational institutions using class scheduling software like Lunacal’s platform for class bookings have already reported dramatic improvements in attendance and engagement. In the fitness industry, where applications such as gym booking software are crucial, ChronoPilot’s integration led to a 37% rise in client retention during a 90-day pilot. Music academies leveraging music lesson scheduling tools observed a 52% reduction in missed appointments.ZIT’s Secret Weapon: Sentient Sync ProtocolWhat truly sets ChronoPilot apart is its proprietary Sentient Sync Protocol (SSP) — a neural time-mapping engine that mimics human anticipation. SSP doesn’t just block out time; it predicts the best time for each task based on thousands of variables, including circadian rhythms, cognitive load history, and even micro-fluctuations in vocal tone during user interactions.Dr. Lena Marwick, lead AI architect at ZIT, explained, “We’re no longer asking users to fit into rigid schedules. ChronoPilot adapts to them, moment by moment.”Global Trials, Unprecedented ResultsThe AI was tested across 1.2 million scheduling interactions in 11 countries, across five major time zones. In one compelling instance, a public school in Osaka integrated ChronoPilot into its digital classroom system. Within three weeks, student punctuality improved by 48%, and feedback indicated a 63% increase in perceived classroom coherence.Meanwhile, a UK-based national gym chain used ChronoPilot to coordinate personal training sessions across 87 locations. Instructors reported a 41% decrease in downtime, and an average boost of 18% in customer satisfaction scores.ChronoPilot vs. The Old GuardWhile current scheduling tools rely heavily on manual input or rigid templates, ChronoPilot learns from passive inputs — browsing behavior, sleep app data, voice command history — with the user’s consent. This passive data synergy allows it to preemptively adjust schedules without user intervention.Analysts say the AI’s capabilities pose an existential threat to legacy scheduling systems and even to calendar giants like Google Calendar and Microsoft Outlook. “It’s not just a calendar anymore,” says Gideon Lark, senior analyst at MetaMetrics. “It’s a lifestyle orchestrator.”Privacy Concerns and Ethical DebateNot everyone is celebrating. Digital rights watchdogs have raised concerns about the volume and sensitivity of data ChronoPilot processes. The AI can access everything from location logs to biometric signals. While ZIT asserts the system uses end-to-end encryption and offers opt-out data controls, some critics remain wary."We’re trading convenience for surveillance,” warns Aria Salim, director of the Tech Privacy Initiative. “There must be enforceable limits on how such AI models evolve, especially as they begin to predict and possibly influence human behavior.”ZIT has responded by publishing a white paper detailing its privacy protocols and inviting third-party audits. Still, the debate over AI autonomy and human agency continues to intensify.

[mostlysignssomeportents]

This day in history

TOMORROW (May 14), I'm on a livecast about AI AND ENSHITTIFICATION with TIM O'REILLY; on WEDNESDAY (May 15), I'm in NORTH HOLLYWOOD with HARRY SHEARER for a screening of STEPHANIE KELTON'S FINDING THE MONEY; FRIDAY (May 17), I'm at the INTERNET ARCHIVE in SAN FRANCISCO to keynote the 10th anniversary of the AUTHORS ALLIANCE.

#20yrsago Open source games from 1978 https://www.atariarchives.org/basicgames/

#15yrsago Why RIAA lawsuits matter to the Free Software Foundation https://torrentfreak.com/the-war-on-sharing-why-the-fsf-cares-about-riaa-lawsuits-090513/

#10yrsago Clapper’s ban on talking about leaks makes life difficult for crypto profs with cleared students https://twitter.com/mattblaze/status/464841668391624705

#10yrsago Ukip councillor sends cops to activist’s house, ask him to delete critical tweet https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2014/may/12/police-ask-blogger-remove-legitimate-tweet-ukip

#10yrsago Bletchley Park Trust erects “Berlin Wall” to cut off on-site computer history museum https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2014/may/12/bletchley-park-national-museum-computing-berlin-wall-restored-colossus-codebreaking

#5yrsago Vancouver’s housing bubble was driven by billions in laundered criminal proceeds https://www.seattletimes.com/business/billions-in-dirty-cash-helped-fuel-vancouver-b-c-s-housing-boom/

#5yrsago Supreme Court greenlights Apple customers’ lawsuit over App Store price-fixing https://www.wired.com/story/supreme-court-apple-decision-antitrust/

#5yrsago Amazon’s monopsony power: the other antitrust white meat https://www.promarket.org/2019/02/15/is-amazon-violating-the-sherman-act/

#5yrsago Trump supporters astonished to learn that the man they gave $20m to “build the wall” has nothing to show for it https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2019/05/11/group-raised-more-than-million-build-wall-now-some-supporters-want-answers/

#1yrsago Revenge of the Linkdumps https://pluralistic.net/2023/05/13/four-bar-linkage/#linkspittle