Listening
Unlocking Word Meanings
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.
- strike a nerve / straɪk ə nɜrv / (idiom) – to make someone feel upset, angry, or very sensitive
Example:The question about Tommy’s low grades must have struck a nerve, because he immediately ended the conversation.
- compromise / ˈkɒm prəˌmaɪz / (v.) – to make something worse or harm it
Example:Cutting down all the trees will compromise the forest and hurt the animals living there.
- concessionaire / kənˌsɛʃ əˈnɛər / (n.) – a person or business that has permission to sell things or services in a specific place
Example:The concessionaire at the cinema sells popcorn and drinks.
- to little avail / tu ˈlɪt l əˈveɪl / (idiom) – describing an action or effort that mostly failed or didn't work well
Example:Jessica tried to convince Paul to join the overseas trip, but to little avail. He still decided to stay home.
- frenzy / ˈfrɛn zi / (n.) – a state of great excitement or wild behavior, often difficult to control
Example:The crowd went into a happy frenzy when their favorite singer came out, cheering loudly and dancing.
Article
Read the text below.
Mayor Eduardo Paes issued a decree in mid-May establishing new rules for the city’s waterfront, saying he wants to preserve urban order, public safety and the environment, as well as promote peaceful relations between tourists and residents.
The new measures came into force on June 1, and they outlaw food and drink sales, chair rentals, loudspeakers and even live music in kiosks without official permits. Also, beach huts are only allowed to have a number rather than the often-creative names many are currently known by.
Some have welcomed the move to tackle what they perceive as chaotic activity on the beach, but others say the decree threatens Rio’s dynamic beach culture and the livelihoods of many musicians and local vendors who may find it difficult or impossible to get permits.
The move to regulate music on Rio’s beachfronts has particularly struck a nerve. “It’s difficult to imagine Rio de Janeiro without bossa nova, without samba on the beach,” said Julio Trindade, who works as a DJ in the kiosks.
The restrictions on music amount to “silencing the soul of the waterfront. It compromises the spirit of a democratic, musical, vibrant, and authentic Rio,” Orla Rio, a concessionaire who manages more than 300 kiosks, said in a statement.
Some are seeking ways to stop the implementation of the decree or at least modify it to allow live music without a permit. But so far, to little avail.
Local councilwoman Dani Balbi lashed out against the bill on social media.
“What’s the point of holding big events with international artists and neglecting the people who create culture every day in the city?” she said on Instagram, in reference to the huge concerts by Lady Gaga in May and Madonna last year.
For Rebecca Thompson, 53, who hails from Wales and was again visiting Rio after a five-week trip last year, the frenzy is part of the charm.
“There’s vibrancy, there’s energy. For me, there’s always been a strong sense of community and acceptance. I think it would be very sad if that were to go,” she said.
This article was provided by The Associated Press.
Viewpoint Discussion
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.
Discussion A
- Some worry that the new rules will negatively impact Rio’s vibrant beach culture. How do you think Rio’s vibrant beach culture might change in the future? How do you think these rules would help or harm Rio in terms of culture, tourism, and public order? Discuss.
- The restrictions on music have particularly struck a nerve. What role do you think music plays in creating the atmosphere or identity of a city? Where do you think live music should always be allowed, even if it’s a bit noisy? Why? Discuss.
Discussion B
- The mayor’s decree aims to preserve “urban order.” What does urban order mean to you? Do you think this definition is the same in the context of a busy public space like a waterfront? Why or why not? Discuss.
- A tourist described the frenzy of the Rio waterfront as part of its charm. Do you sometimes find chaotic or very lively environments appealing? Why or why not? Do you think making cities quieter and controlled can take away some of their charms? Why do you say so? Discuss.
