Lawn weeds hacks 2026

For 2026, my top lawn weed hack is acting early in spring to pull young weeds by hand when soil is moist, or using a DIY mix of:

1 gallon white vinegar,

1 cup salt, and,

1 tbsp dish soap 

… for spot treatment.

For long-term control, you know the drill: apply a pre-emergent herbicide in early spring to prevent germination, followed by consistent mowing to starve weeds. What are your lawn weeds hacks in 2026, please share yours in the comment area.

Google Fi Promotions and Special Offers as of October 2025


Introduction

As of October 2025, Google Fi Wireless remains one of the more dynamic and promotion-driven wireless carriers in the United States. Known for its competitive device deals, flexible plans, and strategic subscriber offers, Google Fi actively targets both new sign-ups and retention of current users through a robust portfolio of promotions. This exhaustive report explores all categories of Google Fi promotions relevant to an individual or family residing in USA, including discounts on plans and devices, referral (you can use my code C61EFM to sign up get free $60 !) and trade-in incentives, exclusive add-ons, region-specific deals, and more. Each offer is analyzed with a close eye on eligibility, terms and conditions, practical value, and regional applicability. The report further references dozens of authoritative sources, official documentation, coupon aggregators, technology news portals, and community forums to deliver timely, accurate, and actionable insights.


Table: Summary of Key Google Fi Promotions for October 2025

CategoryPromotion / OfferEligibilityValue / DiscountNotes & Dates
Device OffersPixel 10 Series: Up to $800 off ($350 instantly, $450 via 24 monthly credits) + $10/mo plan discountNew lines (see notes)$800 device + $240 planEnds 11/20/25, 120/24 mo req.
Pixel 10 Pro/Pro XL/Pro Fold: Free 1-year Google AI Pro ($199+)Device buyers$199+ valueRedeem by 10/31/26
Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge: $900 off ($300 now, $600 via credits)New lines$900 offEnds 11/20/25
Moto G Stylus 2025: $200 off instantlyAll customers$200 offEnds 12/31/25
Pixel 9a: $100 off now, $399 over 24 months (effectively free)New lines$499 offEnds 11/20/25
Samsung Z Flip7/Z Fold7: Up to $800 in combined discounts for new usersNew users$300–$800 offUntil 10/07/25
Plan DiscountsUnlimited Premium: $10/mo off for 2 years with Pixel 10New device activation$240 total savingsCombined with device promo
Limited-Time: 50% off new lines for 4 months (bring your own device)New lines (B.Y.O.D.)50% offEnds 10/21/25
Referral: $60 off statement creditNew sign-ups (referral)$60 credit; you can use my code C61EFM to sign up get free $60 !Ongoing
“Try Fi” Free 7-day Trial OfferFirst-time customersFree week of serviceOngoing
Add-On PerksPixel 10 Pro/XL/Fold: Free 1-year Google AI Pro, 2TB Storage, YouTube Premium, Fitbit PremiumDevice buyersVaries ($199–$240 value)See device promo
Pixel 10: 6 mo. Google One 2TB + 6 mo. Fitbit Premium + 3 mo. YouTube PremiumDevice buyers$60–$100+ valueOnly with new device
Trade-InDevice Trade-In credit: Up to $799 (Pixel 10 Pro), varies by device & conditionNew & currentDevice-dependentAt checkout, rapid process
Referral Bonuses$60 credit per referral & $60 for referred friend (up to $600 total)All users (18+)$60–$600 [you can use my code C61EFM to sign up get free $60 !]Ongoing
Group/Family DealsGroup plans: Discounted per-line rates, up to 6 linesAll customersPlan-dependentSee flexible/group plans
Seasonal/RegionalGeorgia: All national promos apply; no unique local-only offers found as of October 2025All users in GAN/AN/A
Retailer PromotionsBest Buy, Amazon: Occasional 20–40% off on Fi-compatible phones, especially around major shopping eventsAll, varies by stockUp to 20–40% offCheck local retailers

While this table illustrates the most salient available offers, most promotions require activation of a new line, device purchase, or fulfillment of bill credit terms (e.g., remaining a customer for up to 24 months). Specific eligibility and cumulative benefits can differ depending on new vs. existing customer status and selected plans. The rest of this report provides detailed analyses of each category and promotion, including terms, best-use strategies, and up-to-date supporting references.


I. Google Fi Device Offers

A. Google Pixel 10 Series Promos

Perhaps the headline draw for fall 2025, Google Fi is aggressively incentivizing adoption of its flagship Pixel 10 models (including Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL, and Pixel 10 Pro Fold) with instant discounts, extended bill credits, and bundled premium services.

For any new line or eligible user who hasn’t had Fi service in the past six months, the offer—active through at least November 20, 2025—breaks down as follows:

  • Up to $800 off Pixel 10 Series: $350 instant discount at time of purchase plus up to $450 back as bill credits over 24 months. The total value depends on model and plan selected.
  • $10/mo service discount for 2 years on Unlimited Premium Plan: This amounts to $240 in additional savings.
  • Free 1-Year Google AI Pro subscription (Pixel 10 Pro/XL/Fold only): Normally $19.99/month or $239/year.
  • Additional Perks: Pixel 10 Pro and up: also 2TB storage, AI features; Pixel 10 buyers: 6 months Google One 2TB plan, six months Fitbit Premium, and three months YouTube Premium.

Eligibility & Terms:

  • Must purchase and activate on an eligible plan, typically Unlimited Premium.
  • Device must be activated within 30 days and remain for 120 consecutive days (or bill credits are clawed back).
  • Credits received over 24 months; cancellation or suspension before this period forfeits remaining credits.
  • Offer valid for U.S. residents; taxes, fees payable on full device price up front (before credits).
  • Applies to all U.S. addresses.

Analysis:
This deal offers a substantial financial incentive: the effective cost reduction on the Pixel 10 Pro, for instance, can rival trade-in offers from competitors, and the free premium services add tangible value for heavy users of Google’s ecosystem. The AI Pro plan provides cutting-edge access to Gemini in Gmail/Docs, Veo 3 video generation, AI coding assistants (Jules), and 2TB secure cloud storage—making it especially appealing for tech-savvy buyers or content creators.


B. Other Device Discounts (Samsung, Moto, Pixel 9a)

  • Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge: $900 total off ($300 at checkout, $600 as monthly bill credits over 24 months) for new lines, or up to $650 for select existing users, with similar activation and term requirements as the Pixel 10 promos.
  • Moto G Stylus 2025: $200 instant discount (no bill credits); available to new and existing customers; ends December 31, 2025.
  • Pixel 9a: Effectively free for new lines ($100 off instantly, remaining $399 as credits over two years).

Additional Offers:

  • Third-party retailers such as Best Buy and Amazon sometimes match or undercut Google’s direct device prices, especially during Black Friday, Prime Day, or other major sales. October’s Best Buy “Tech-tober” event and Amazon’s “Prime Big Deal Days” included Pixel phones at 20–40% off.

Analysis:
Samsung and Motorola deals, while not as generous as the flagship Pixel 10 promo, offer considerable value, especially for users who prefer or need a non-Google device. The Moto G Stylus deal, for example, provides a near-budget-tier price on a capable new phone, making it excellent for students, seniors, or anyone seeking affordable smartphone access. The device offers are also frequently coupled with Google’s own financing programs, further lowering the barrier to entry for new subscribers.


C. Trade-In Promotions

For any device purchase, both new and existing Fi customers can leverage Google’s trade-in system:

  • Trade-in values: Up to $799 for devices like the iPhone 16 Pro Max, Pixel 9 Pro XL, Samsung Galaxy S25—the highest values reserved for recent flagships and pristine devices.
  • Credit process: Trade-in value is determined at checkout with real-time estimator; credit is applied as an upfront device discount (on full purchase) or as monthly credits if financing.
  • Terms: Older devices and less common models will fetch lower amounts; all trade-ins must be shipped within 30 days. Device must be unlocked, properly reset, and may not have major functional flaws to maximize value. Any mismatches or damage will lower final paid value.

Analysis:
The trade-in feature amplifies the impact of device promotions, often making a high-end Pixel 10 Pro or Samsung S25 device essentially free or at deep discount for those with a relatively new trade-in device. Google’s estimator and rapid assessment process make it easy to see final value before committing. Google’s transparency compares favorably to legacy carriers, and the instant refund/account credit model is consumer-friendly, minimizing out-of-pocket expense for switchers or upgraders.


II. Google Fi Plan Discounts and Add-Ons

A. Plan-Specific Promotions

  • Unlimited Premium Plan: $10/mo Discount for 2 Years
    • Available with new Pixel 10 series activation.
    • Reduces first-line cost from $65/mo to $55/mo (plus taxes), offering $240 in savings total over 24 months.
    • Unlimited Premium includes 100GB domestic priority data, 50GB hotspot, international data/calls in over 200 countries, 100GB Google One storage, six months YouTube Premium, and more.
  • Limited-Time: 50% Off New Lines for 4 Months
    • For customers who bring their own phone and join any unlimited plan (typically ends 10/21/25).
    • Applies per line; no device purchase required.
    • Stackable with group/family plans for maximum value.
  • Simply Unlimited 50% Off for 2 Years Promotion (March 2025 Special)
    • Not currently active in October, but similar promotions may recur during holiday sales and events.
    • Historically, this reduced the per-line cost on Simply Unlimited to as low as $25/mo for 24 months, but is marked as expired for October 2025.
  • Free 7-Day Trial
    • For first-time users: unlimited US calls/texts, 10GB high-speed data, hotspot, VPN, and 24/7 support.
    • Full plan charges only commence if service is retained post-trial. Taking the trial may disqualify the user from some first-time customer device offers, so users should weigh benefits before enrolling.

Analysis:
These plan discounts can significantly reduce the monthly cost of service, especially for individuals or families on high-data plans. The $10/mo discount makes Unlimited Premium—already packed with international and cloud storage features—broadly competitive with flagship unlimited plans from T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T while layering on Google ecosystem extras. The temporary 50% discount on new lines offers a strong entry point for switching users, particularly those with multi-line needs or with unlocked phones.


B. Family and Group Plan Promotions

  • Multi-Line Discounts
    • All of Google Fi’s unlimited plans support group/family discounts: the more lines, the lower the per-line cost. Up to six lines can be managed in one group.
    • Unlimited Premium: $110/mo ($55 per line) for two lines, scaling incrementally with more users.
    • Management is centralized in a single app, and family members all access sharing and parental control tools.
  • Group plan device offers
    • Most device promotions (e.g., $800 off Pixel 10) are available per group member, not just for the group plan owner (each must purchase and activate individually).

Analysis:
These combined per-line discounts and device offers strongly incentivize families or groups of friends to switch together. Every group member can secure their own device discount, maximizing cumulative savings. Google Fi’s group plan management and parental control features (Family Link integration, spam/robocall blocking) are particularly valuable for households with children or teenagers.


C. Add-On Service Offers

The deepest device offers—particularly for Pixel 10 Pro, Pro XL, and Pro Fold buyers—come with bundled services valued at over $200:

  • One Year Google AI Pro (Gemini, Veo 3, NotebookLM, Jules, 2TB Storage)
    • Free for Pro-level device buyers, value $199–$239.
  • Six months Google One 2TB Storage (Pixel 10 only)
    • New users only, roughly $60 value; not combinable with existing Google One subscriptions.
  • Six months Fitbit Premium and three months YouTube Premium (Pixel 10)
    • Fitness, wellness, and ad-free music/video benefits.
  • Two years smartwatch (Pixel Watch 4 LTE) data (with Pixel Watch 4 purchase)
    • Separate promo for those adding a compatible watch; provides data-only SIM with Google Fi at no charge, US-only, capped data per month.

Analysis:
These value-added offers are designed to lock users further into the Google ecosystem and strongly differentiate Google Fi device promotions from those of other carriers. For a technophile or remote worker who is heavy on Google workspace usage, the free AI Pro plan plus 2TB storage and wellness services deliver substantial added value. The bundled perks also provide a powerful tie-in between Google’s software ecosystem and its hardware, reinforcing brand loyalty.


III. Referral Bonuses and Credits

Google Fi offers an evergreen, mutually rewarding referral program for both new users and existing subscribers.

  • $60 Referral Credit (per qualifying sign-up)
    • New users who sign up via a referral code (provided via email, link, or code) receive a $60 bill credit after their first month’s bill is paid.
    • You can use my code C61EFM to sign up get free $60 !
    • Referring users receive $60 credit for each successful referral, capped at $600 (10 referrals).
    • Credits apply to monthly service, not device purchases or financing.
    • Must remain active and pay first bill for at least 30 consecutive days.
    • Only full-service plan activations eligible (data-only SIMs and new group members not included).

Analysis:
Referral bonuses are a cost-effective onboarding mechanism for Google Fi and a nice cost offset for loyal users who frequently evangelize the service. For engaged customers—especially those with large social networks or family groups—these tiered credits can easily reduce several months’ bills to zero. New users who sign up with a friend’s code get real, up-front savings—making this an excellent tactic for couples, roommates, and friend groups switching from legacy carriers. You can use my code C61EFM to sign up get free $60 !


IV. Trade-In and Buy-Back Programs

Google Fi’s trade-in program operates on a national basis, and is notable for:

  • High Value for Recent Devices
    • Flagship iPhone, Samsung, OnePlus, and Google devices (in good condition) can net up to $799 in savings toward new purchases.
  • Flexible Credit Application
    • Value can be applied as an immediate discount (purchasing outright) or as monthly credits (when financing).
  • Quick Evaluation & Processing
    • After receipt of the trade-in, devices are evaluated in three business days; if approved, refund/account credits are processed within a week.
  • One-for-One and Non-Locking Terms
    • Only one device may be traded per new device purchase. Trade-in is not mandatory for device discounts but can yield a stackable extra savings or offset the full up-front cost.
  • Buyer and Seller Protections
    • Trade-in kit and shipping are provided; value reflects final inspection and can be declined if lower than quoted. Canceling after the trade-in device is shipped is not possible.
  • Special Bill Credits with Some Promos
    • Select phone deals offer enhanced trade-in values as monthly bill credits over 24 months, further motivating device turnover for frequent upgraders.

Analysis:
Google’s buy-back and trade-in mechanisms compare favorably to traditional carrier rebate programs in transparency and speed. The ability to get up-front value (for cash buyers) or monthly credits (to offset financing) increases flexibility for users. With the frequency of Android and iPhone upgrades, this model appeals strongly to tech enthusiasts and speed upgraders who wish to minimize their ongoing device costs.


V. Regional and Seasonal Promotions

A. GA and the Broader National Market

A review of the current Google Fi promotional landscape reveals no special local enhancements or regional-only device/plan discounts exclusive to Georgia residents. Every offer detailed herein, including device discounts, plan specials, and referral incentives [you can use my code C61EFM to sign up get free $60 !], applies nationally. Some taxes and regulatory fees—particularly 911 and universal fund surcharges—are calculated based on the user’s address and thus may slightly affect displayed totals on checkout, but are not promotional in nature.

Note: Sometimes, third-party retailers (e.g., Best Buy or Amazon physical stores in GA) may run local-only events, but as of October 2025, no region-specific deals appear to be active.


B. Limited-Time & Seasonal Sales

Promotions often spike during the following periods:

  • Prime Day (October; observed 2025)
  • Tech-tober / Back to School
  • Black Friday and Cyber Monday (late November)
  • Year-End/Holiday Sales

During these events, deep discounts on unlocked Google Fi-compatible phones and Fi service gift cards can be found at retailers like Best Buy, Walmart, and Amazon. These may not always stack with Google’s direct offers, so shoppers should check individual device eligibility, activation easiness, and after-sales support.


VI. International Roaming and Data-Only SIM Promotions

All Google Fi unlimited plans (except Unlimited Essentials) include:

  • International Data Coverage
    • Unlimited Premium: 50GB high-speed data in over 200 destinations (including North America, Western Europe, much of Asia-Pacific and Latin America).
    • Flexible: Pay-as-you-go data in 200+ countries at $10/GB after 15GB cap, then reduced speeds.
  • International Calling and Texts
    • Free international texts; calls are 20¢/minute or free to 50+ select destinations, depending on plan.
    • Wi-Fi calling discounted worldwide.
  • Data-Only SIM
    • For tablets, laptops, or secondary phones: Free to add; included on Unlimited Premium and Flexible plans for compatible devices.
  • Specialized Watch Data Offers
    • Example: Pixel Watch 4 LTE purchasers can get two years of free data-only Fi for their device, supporting messaging and streaming without mobile voice calling, capped data per month.

Analysis:
Google Fi’s international features remain best-in-class among U.S. carriers, especially for travelers, digital nomads, and students. The addition of data-only SIMs for tablets/laptops is an underrated value, often saving hundreds over the life of a two-year plan vs. buying local SIMs or travel hotspot plans. Combined benefits for military and government employees add further flexibility, especially for those on extended overseas assignments.


VII. Promotional Terms, Eligibility, and Fine Print

When considering any offer, pay close attention to the following terms:

  • New vs. Existing Customer Status:
    • New user promotions generally require no prior Fi service or a “cooling off” period (typically at least 180 days since previous cancellation).
    • Some device upgrade offers do allow existing users to qualify, but the total value is often reduced compared to new chief-line activations.
  • Activation Windows:
    • Most bill credit and device discounts require activation on an eligible plan (often Unlimited Premium or Flexible) within 30 days of shipment and maintaining good standing for at least 120 days, sometimes up to 24 months for monthly credits.
  • Cancellation/Suspension:
    • Early cancellation, changing to an ineligible plan, or pausing service for too long will void all remaining credits, and Google will charge back the instant discount portion to your Google Pay account.
  • Taxation:
    • All offers are pre-tax; applicable sales tax and regulatory fees are due at purchase on the original (pre-credit) price.
  • Device Financing:
    • Offers stack with Google Fi device financing; monthly credits offset monthly payments.
  • Referral Codes:
    • Only one code per new user; bill credits valid only towards service, not device purchases or hardware financing.
    • You can use my code C61EFM to sign up get free $60 !
  • Add-On Freebies (e.g., Gemini Pro, Google One):
    • Redemption can be finicky: only new Google One users or select account managers are eligible (family plan members may not be able to activate).
  • Group Plan Rules:
    • Promotions granted per group member, with individual activation required to qualify.

Recommendation:
Before completing purchase/activation, fully review the Google Fi offers terms page and check your account’s eligibility status, especially for device upgrades or add-on subscriptions. Reach out to Google Fi support in-app if needed.


VIII. Third-Party Retailers and Coupon Aggregators

Besides direct Google Fi offers, coupon portals (e.g., Coupons.com, Dealspotr, Slickdeals) and major retailers list and occasionally distribute working promo codes for service discounts, bonus credits, free shipping, or device discounts:

  • Regular offers of $60 referral credit, 15-40% off select Pixel and Samsung models, up to 75% off select devices, and occasional 10% off for email sign-ups. You can use my code C61EFM to sign up get free $60 !
  • Many codes are referral-specific (for new users) and cannot be stacked with direct Google Fi device promotions.
  • Seasonal surges in coupon volume are common; however, only the most robust and verified codes (green check marks, recent codes) are reliably honored at Google Fi checkout.
  • Some codes are time-sensitive (e.g., during October’s Prime Day, Back to School, or Black Friday events) and may disappear quickly once used or inventory is exhausted.

Best Practices:

  • Try promo codes prior to final checkout (the checkout interface shows success/fail instantly).
  • Be cautious with third-party aggregator codes; always verify term compatibility for your account status and device.
  • For bulk or group plan discounts, consider splitting orders to maximize one-code-per-purchase restrictions.

IX. Recent and Noteworthy Historical Promotions

Over the past year, Google Fi has cycled through an array of recurring and seasonal offers:

  • Back-to-School: Often features discounts on plans (sometimes 50% off for several months), free activation credits, and extra referral rewards.
  • Military, Teacher, Student Discounts: No standing student or military discount as of October 2025, but eligible users may unlock extended overseas Fi access with SheerID verification. Google Store independently runs 10% off for students/military with ID.me, but not tied to Fi plan subscriptions.
  • Past B.Y.O.D. Promos: Occasional plan-only offers for bring-your-own-device users without requiring new hardware purchase.
  • Expired 2-Year 50% Off “Simply Unlimited” Promo: Finalized in March 2025, but may recur in future seasonal sales.

X. Conclusions and Recommendations

For New Customers in US:

Best Value Strategy (October 2025):

  • If upgrading to Pixel 10 Pro/XL/Fold:
    • Stack the $800 device discount, $10/mo plan savings, and one-year AI Pro. Consider further offsetting with a high-value trade-in. Total combined value can easily top $1,200 for eligible users.
  • Looking for a budget device:
    • Moto G Stylus 2025 ($200 off), Pixel 9a (effectively free after credits), or check Best Buy for past-generation deals.
  • Unsure about full migration:
    • Initiate free 7-day trial to test service coverage before committing, but do note use may make some new customer offers inaccessible post-trial.
  • Invited by a friend:
    • Use their referral code for immediate $60 credit after first month; can combine with almost any device/plan deal. You can use my code C61EFM to sign up get free $60 !

For Existing Customers:

  • Upgrade device:
    • Pixel 10, 10 Pro, and flagship Samsung/Fold deals offer significant discounts, if your upgrade eligibility status is clear.
  • Refer friends, family, or coworkers:
    • Earn up to $600 a year in bill credits.
  • Group/family plans:
    • Further reduce per-line costs by consolidating multiple lines, leveraging flexible plan management and per-member device offers.

General Advice:

  • Always read fine print for each promo: Device and plan activation deadlines, cancellation clawbacks, and eligibility for new vs. returning users are common pitfalls.
  • Watch for seasonal sales: Next spike likely around Black Friday and winter holidays.
  • Stack trade-in offers and referral codes whenever possible—up-front savings + downstream credits magnify value, especially on flagship hardware. You can use my code C61EFM to sign up get free $60 !

Closing Statement

As of October 2025, Google Fi’s promotional landscape is among the most compelling in the U.S. wireless sector. Its aggressive device deals, synergistic Google ecosystem perks, flexible plans, and robust referral/trade-in system create numerous avenues for substantial savings, for both first-time joiners and existing loyalists. Residents of U.S. can access all national deals with no geographic restrictions, and, by timing purchases around major seasonal sales or device launches, maximize both immediate and long-term value.

For users seeking the ideal time to jump to Google Fi, or rationing upgrades within a household or group, October 2025 is a peak period to act—particularly for tech-forward buyers prioritizing the latest Google or Samsung hardware and premium cloud/AI features. Savvy shoppers will monitor device availability, test working promo codes, and stack offers wherever eligible to optimize savings well into 2026.


Note: You can use my code C61EFM to sign up get free $60 !

Fix the dreadful Windows “Preparing to automatic repair” – still on it

I have had the dreadful Windows “Preparing to automatic repair” issue for some time on an Acer Swift laptop with Windows 10. Today, I reset the battery at theback of the laptop by inserting a pin to that tiny hole for about 30 minutes, then restart, no change.

Then I followed this link https://community.acer.com/en/discussion/642028/stuck-on-acer-boot-screen-with-either-preparing-automatic-repair/p1?tab=all and tapped F2 a few times upon restart, it now changes to “Diagnosing windows” and get to Automatic Repair screen with Shut down and Adavanced Options buttons. I selected the latter, and advanced options, repair the windows (no help) later Command propmt, entered the command: “sfc /scannow”. However, when it restarts, it still shows “Diagnosing windows …” and then Automatic Repair screen again.

Freelancer.com is full of scammers

I had a freelancer.com account a while ago. Recently I just tried to login and see if I could still have access. Turned out to be, right after I logged in, I see a few direct-hire “offers” without me even sending any proposals.

Fantastic! I thought that’s great I could start working on it right away.

One of the scammers with user name “dakosa98798sam” 2 days agosent me a chat:

Hello

Creativity Household is in need of a virtual assistant  to represent and work virtually for the gallery in handling customers services,invoice,data entry and also data processing .Biding freelancers should have an excellent customer service and must be outcome-oriented. The gallery needs an assistant that will help manage its data entry,customer,Ed services,reply to emails,handle data processing and also handle all that deals with invoicing and recordings,creating and design website…JI went through your profile and I think you are qualified for this job. I am looking forward to working with you.i want you to know that you will be paid 300$ per week. You are required to work for three hours a day and you let me know when it’s okay for you to work each day of the week so i can work around such time with you. however, you are not required to make any form of financial investment into  This project as the gallery will bear the full cost of running the gallery. Likewise,your major duty will be to attend to customers’ requests via mail. I also want you to know that the gallery specializes in the online sales of artwork via freelancers who are interested in representing the gallery at their various location please send me a mail at creativityhousehold@gmail.com so i can provide you more details regarding this project and also on how to proceed. Thank you

Immediately after, I received another “direct-hire” offer:

I am currently on a business trip so i need a customer assistant to represent my gallery. I want you to know that you will be paid $400 per week. You are to work for just three hours a day and you are to let me know the convenient … chat me on email bennyroyaltygalleryinc101@gmail.com so i can provide you more information about the project.

This made me a bit suspicious but I responded to each of them anyway. However, they did not respond in freelancer platform. They may expect me to respond to their email they provided in the chat instead.

I did some research on Google. What they actually do is like this:

They may use someone else’s credit cards to purchase lots of merchandise. But they cannot change the shipping address because if they do that credit card company may reject the payment if the shipping address does not match billing address. They will then call the credit card holders and disguise them as a courier service saying they delivered a package to their home “by mistake” and their “employees” will go pick them up from their house soon. So they will “hire” you as their virtual/personal assistant in freelancer.com to pick up those packages for them and mail to the addresses they provide you. Later, they may send you a check, but that’s fake, you’ll end up “working” for them for free, potentially being charged by your bank as the check will eventually be bounced back.

More seriously, you may be on the hook for those criminal activities. Police may track you down and get you arrested as you seem to be involved in this fraudulent activities.

I reported to freelancer.com. I am surprised that their platform is full of those fake jobs and they did not take any actions upon them. Who will join this site infested with scammers?

This is not over.

The most bizzar thing is, on the same night, I got a scammer saying that they are very interested in my profile and may offer me the opportunity. Here are our conversation in Freelancer chat:

Hello good day
User Avatar
How are you doing?
Hi
Thanks
I am good.
I am very interested in the project you posted.
I have done the imports many times with WP
When can I get started?
User Avatar
Are you available for the job?
Yes
User Avatar
Can i see your previous portfolio?
I am new to Freelancer.com , but I have been in software industry for many years
I have a few of my own WP web sites
such as blog.dengsoft.com
I am very confident that I can get yours done with professional grade
User Avatar
Hold let me check
Sure
Okay nice work
User Avatar
I love your design
Thanks
User Avatar
Can i forward the project details so you can have a clearer picture of what i want?
Yes, please
Is it via email?
Kindly download the document via wettransfer https://fil.email/nn2WEBSP
User Avatar
I await your feedback
Sure
Sorry somehow Chrome blocked it. Any other way to access it?
Try another way to download it
That is a zip file
Download and extract
I'm on mobile now
User Avatar
The doc is inside
I am trying with another browser
You may have to re-zip
my 7-zip said it's not a valid archive/zip file
What are you trying to say
User Avatar
Did you click on it?
I downloaded, but cannot open that zip file somehow
Extracting that file failed
User Avatar
Can you make a screenshot of it
image.png
image.png
I used MS Edge browser
now I can see, it's an .exe file?
Is this the one you sent me?
If this .exe is the only file you sent me, can you send me the actual files - text files etc as long as it provided info what to be done. My PC / anti-virus does not allow me to open this .exe file, sorry
You have do al you can to download it
User Avatar
That's the file for the Company
Seen by superjasper41
I downloaded it, but in that zip file, it has only one .exe file
Can you let me know why it's an .exe file? My PC would not open an .exe file from third-party, sorry
Can you screen capture all the necessary info as imgaes and send them to me?
Can you kindly confirm/clarify and get back to me?
??
13 SEP 2020 · 12:10 PM
If you do not respond, I am going to report to freelancer and police as you are trying to scam me and lure me to download an exe file that may have virus and damage my PC.
Message not delivered.
Unfortunately, you are not allowed to send a message to this thread.
Enter your message...

This freelancer.com user, superjasper41, posted the following job:

Need help finishing a WordPress import feature Open Details

Project Details

$250.00 – 750.00 USD BIDDING ENDS IN 4 DAYS, 9 HOURS

I need help understanding how an import feature was configured by a prior developer. We would then need to determine the next steps to complete the importer (possibly other solutions if they are more user friendly). Ideally the candidate would have experience in custom WordPress builds and large data sets (over 100k entries).

https://www.freelancer.com/projects/wordpress/Need-help-finishing-Wordpress-import-27319772/details

Actually, superjasper41 tried to scam me and lure me to download an .exe file that may have virus and damage my PC. I am going to report to freelancer.com and police as this user has the intent to steal my data and damage my PC after I download and click that .exe file he/she sent me. – Why he/she sent an .exe for project details anyway? Is there any other explanation a company/job poster sent you an .exe to provide job description?? I later sent superjasper41 a chat message via freelancer platform to ask for clarification – as you expected it, this user blocked me from sending messages as I may be scammed and victimized. This user superjasper41 should be banned and reported to police from freelancer.com and get prosecuted so innocent people there will get protected!

What’s wrong with Kroger?

Kroger used to be my favorite grocery store. However, the recent experience did shock me:

1) misleading price tags: for example, the white nectarines were tagged with a huge 99c , but I was charged $2.49/lb, later when I was in customer service, and was told it was the price after you first apply the digital coupon. The same for the fruit bars, listed as $5.49, but there was a very small fine print on the side which was not so visible to most of us: ” when you buy 5 or more”;

2) dishonest practice: when I went to the car, I found that the customer service refunded the price difference only for 1.95 pounds of white nectarine while in my original receipt I purchased 2 pounds, it’s just about $.13 short so I did not bother, but seriously not sure how would this have happened?

3) customer service is getting worse When we went to buy the birthday cake around 7:30pm and asked if someone could write something on the cake, the lady who was packaging the cookies saying we were too late for this, even if all the materials are nearby and all it took is just a minute or two! We never experienced in Kroger like this before. In addition, when we were in customer/ money service waited for quite some time, no one was there. I had to ask a staff nearby to let him find someone in customer service. When I mentioned the misleading price tags in the store, the lady in customer service didn’t seem to care, saying “I was only working here”. No wonder the Kroger is not the Kroger we used to visit!

死磕比利·戴维斯

“我们要求在这个大家庭里,在生活的竞赛里,有平等的机会。”。

– 19世纪美国华人平等权利联盟主席、美国民权运动先驱王清福

据美国福克斯电视台印第安纳频道“Fox 59”当地时间1月12日报道,印第安纳布卢明顿警方逮捕了一名56岁女子比利·戴维斯 (,后者坦承于当地时间11日下午用一把折叠刀刺伤一名18岁亚裔女子头部七次。嫌犯宣称,她的作案动机是因为认为受害人是“中国人”,杀死她“就会少一个来炸我们国家的人”。

报道称,就读于印第安纳大学的受害人是在下公交车时被袭击的,涉案女子与受害人同乘一辆公交车。受害人被送往医院后,医生称其头部有多处刺伤。法庭文件显示,受害者是亚洲人,此次袭击的作案动机或出于种族歧视。

报道援引调查人员的说法称,根据监控录像,可以看到嫌犯从口袋里取出刀具,刺伤受害人七次,然后把刀放回口袋,并能若无其事、旁若无人、不受任何阻拦地回到自己的座位上。受害人和涉案女子在袭击发生前没有任何互动。警方称,在他们到达前,袭击者已经逃走,但另一名公交车乘客跟踪了嫌犯,并帮助警察找到嫌犯下落。目前,执法部门指控比利·戴维斯涉嫌杀人未遂。目前还不清楚她是否也会被指控实施一次仇恨犯罪,因为受害人是一名亚裔(而不是中国人)。

比利·戴维斯

在美国,不知道这是第几次针对亚裔和华人的仇恨犯罪了。

但是,既然这一次比利·戴维斯是专门冲着华人而来,我们别无选择:

我们必须

死磕比利·戴维斯。

因为这起案件的受害者可能是你,可能是我,可能是我们从大学校车刚下车的儿女,甚或是远道而来探望我们的父母。

如果这次我们不去阻止,不能让正义得以伸张,某一天在我们乘坐公共汽车的时候,头上被刺的可能就是我们。

因为仇恨者如比利·戴维斯,他们要杀的是华人或亚裔,不管你来自大陆,台湾,韩国或亚洲任何地方,也不管你的职位或地位。他们针对的是一个族群。

死磕比利·戴维斯, 意味着我们要关注该案的进展,确保公检法要将比利·戴维斯绳之以法,让正义真正得以伸张。特别需要注意的是,该案明显是针对华人的仇恨犯罪,因为嫌犯宣称,她的作案动机是因为受害人是“中国人”,杀死她“就会少一个来炸我们国家的人”。如果最终的法院判决中没有仇恨犯罪,对华人群体将是非常不公平的。

死磕比利·戴维斯,意味着华人作为一个群体,每人做自己力所能及的事:

— 在美国社交媒体和主流媒体发出自己的声音,谴责针对华人的仇恨犯罪;

— 在美华人特别是印第安纳州的华人,尽量在本案开庭日旁听法庭庭审,展示华人的团结和对该案的关心;

— 对被害人表示慰问并表示关切,因为被害的可能就是你我,比利·戴维斯对她的犯罪就是对你我的侮辱和伤害。

随着中美关系降温,这种仇恨犯罪如不及时制止,必会变本加厉。

死磕比利·戴维斯,我们别无选择。

有人说,美国华人人口太少,我们也许做不了什么,“人为刀俎,我为鱼肉”。

果真如此吗?

让我们看看历史上华人对美国民权运动的特殊贡献。

益和诉霍普金斯案

美国南北战争胜利后,通过了三条宪法修正案。其中第十四修正案被称为平等保护条款,规定各州在其保护范围内不得拒绝给予任何人法律的平等保护。但是此后的许多年里,美国最高法院都非常狭隘地解释这一修正案。结果,地方政府在其管辖范围内可以很大程度地侵害少数族裔的自由和权利。

1886年, 旧金山被美国白人打压的一位华裔洗衣店老板被旧金山警官抓捕。当时在加州仅仅有不到5万华人,而官方性质的排华让华人任何抗争都难上加难。但是我们的先辈们团结一致,以巨大的努力把案件一直诉讼到最高法院。此案在美国最高法院得到了开先例的裁决,彻底改变了对第十四修正案的传统解释。在这个判决中,美国第一次在法律上明确写下“原告人的权利。。。并不因为他们是异族或中国国民而减少”。

益和诉霍普金斯案的判决是美国宪法史最重要最著名的25个判决之一。

黄金德诉美国“出生公民权”案

美国公民权之认定,兼采属地与属人,即承认出生于美国的、及父或母是美国公民的子女的公民权。这一原则的法律依据来自1895年华人黄金德一直打到美国高法的司法判决。正是黄金德案的判决明确并巩固了美国宪法第十四修正案中的“属地主义原则”。美国非裔人口一半以上来自二战后移民美国的非洲人。这些人的子女所以能获得美国国籍都源于黄金德对抗美国政府诉讼案的判决。而不是“正是因为非裔美国人反对种族主义归化法,亚裔美国人才获得了公民身份”。

在一百多年前美国全面排华的大环境下,人单势孤、财乏位卑的在美华人进行法律诉讼,其压力即使不能说比一百年后的我们更大,也绝对是同等难度的。除了这些成功的诉讼,也有一些没有成功的。正是这些努力的结果,构成了美国60年代实力可观的民权运动的前提。如果他们在那样恶劣的环境下能够团结一致,为自己的权利抗争,今天的我们没有理由沉默,任由仇恨亚裔的情绪在美国蔓延。

让我们比利·戴维斯死磕到底。

写于2023年1月15日,马丁路德金纪念日前夕

腾远海外中文《腾远海外中文》杂志。 中文、科技、趣味与中文教学 Chinese learning, Sautéed with fun and technology公众号

友情提醒:轻触上面的“腾远海外中文”,订阅该杂志

相关文章:

寻找古代中国国菜 – 葵 (一)

寻找古代中国国菜 – 葵 (二):今日一睹芳容

注:我所说的诸多种种,都是不可置信的。

图片取自网络

图片授权基于:CC0协议

作者:绪蜚
著作权归作者所有,转载请联系作者获得授权。

欢迎转发朋友圈或微群(转发朋友圈或微群,无须预先授权)

本文为原创,首发于“腾远海外中文”(公众号“dengsoft_chinese”), 未经作者事先同意,请勿转载。对中文学习感兴趣的朋友,扫以下二维码进入此公众号后,可以看到更多有趣有用的文章,随时随地与我们中文聊天,还可以咨询很多信息。比如如果想了解北美中文教材有哪些,可以键入”教材”或”中文教材”,就可以查到相关内容,非常方便。

如果你觉得本文或本公众号的文章值得一读,请点击右上角把它分享到你的朋友、微群或朋友圈,或在下方点赞。您的举手之劳,是对作者的最大鼓励。

赞是鼓励 | 分享是最好的支持

QQQ snapshot, as of August 20, 2022, Saturday

QQQ YTD Return Table
Start date:
12/31/2021

End date:
08/19/2022

Start price/share:
$397.85

End price/share:
$322.86

Starting shares:
25.14

Ending shares:
25.21

Dividends reinvested/share:
$0.96

QQQ YTD return:
-18.60%

Annualized Gain:
-29.51%

Starting investment:
$10,000.00

Ending investment:
$8,140.00

QQQ YTD return is presented with the assumption of reinvestments of any dividends on ex-date.

SPX:

QQQ snapshot, as of Jul 13, 2022

SPY is still trending low, no reversing trend present, yet.

QQQ YTD return as of Jul 13, 2022: (source: https://www.ytdreturn.com/qqq/)

Market depth:

History persective (source: macrotrends):

Historical daily share price chart and data for Invesco QQQ since 1999 adjusted for splits. The latest closing stock price for Invesco QQQ as of July 13, 2022 is 285.65.

  • The all-time high Invesco QQQ stock closing price was 403.99 on November 19, 2021.
  • The Invesco QQQ 52-week high stock price is 408.71, which is 43.1% above the current share price.
  • The Invesco QQQ 52-week low stock price is 269.28, which is 5.7% below the current share price.
  • The average Invesco QQQ stock price for the last 52 weeks is 352.97.

Podcasts to share


分享几个最近听的Podcast (本人声明跟以下网站和个人没有任何关系):

1. clark.com/podcasts/03-29-22-affordable-cities-for-renters-where-the-deals-are/

1a Clark提到Schwab是美国唯一一家承诺对网络欺诈给予赔付的证券商;

1b 主持人列出全美房租最低的城市,其中北达科他州有些城市月租低至800美元,这更坚定了我们卖房投资股市的信心。如果目前可Pledge的3%不够多,可以从这些城市住起

2. www.choosefi.com/why-does-the-stock-market-go-up-brian-feroldi-ep-371/

Brian Feroldi 分享了为什么市场一直会涨,尤其他在Podcast中提到,美国自有股市以来,如果投资股市、指数20年,你的成功率是100%,对,百分之百!(更多内容分享:https://blog.dengsoft.com/2022/04/04/1283/ )