Tech Addiction: The 'Zombie Students' Crisis in the Age of Screens

2025-03-25
Tech Addiction: The 'Zombie Students' Crisis in the Age of Screens

A sobering article exposes the devastating impact of tech addiction on students. Teachers report students' lack of focus, motivation, and addiction to the dopamine rush of their phones, behaving like addicts. This phenomenon is widespread, even affecting young children. The article points out that tech companies, prioritizing profits, disregard the negative impact on youth, leading to decreased learning ability, academic dishonesty, and an inability to think critically. It calls for parents, teachers, and tech companies to work together to solve this growing social problem.

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Satchmo's Chicago Debut: A Night That Changed Jazz

2025-02-07
Satchmo's Chicago Debut: A Night That Changed Jazz

This article recounts the legendary night in 1922 when Louis Armstrong arrived in Chicago to join King Oliver's Creole Jazz Band. Ricky Riccardi, in his new book "Stomp Off, Let's Go: The Early Years of Louis Armstrong," vividly describes Armstrong's journey from New Orleans, his anxious arrival, and his electrifying debut at the Lincoln Gardens. This night marked a turning point in Armstrong's career, showcasing not only his immense talent but also his humility and respect for his mentor. The excerpt details the vibrant atmosphere, the personalities he encountered, and the unique collaborative style he developed with Oliver.

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Spotify's Shady Secret: Fake Artists and Inflated Play Counts Exposed

2024-12-21
Spotify's Shady Secret: Fake Artists and Inflated Play Counts Exposed

A year-long investigation reveals Spotify's deceptive practices. A program called "Perfect Fit Content" (PFC) involves partnerships with production companies to create and promote fake artists and tracks, artificially inflating play counts to reduce royalty costs and boost profits. These fake tracks, often ambient, classical, electronic, jazz, or lo-fi, are strategically placed in playlists designed for background listening. The Spotify CEO's significant stock sales around the time of the revelations further fueled controversy. This scandal raises serious concerns about transparency and fairness in the music industry, prompting calls for congressional investigation and a more transparent music streaming ecosystem.

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