In the iconic Michael Jackson track “Smooth Criminal,” the memorable refrain “Annie, are you OK?” derives its inspiration from Resusci Anne, a mannequin commonly employed for CPR training. Interestingly, Resusci Anne, also known as the “most kissed face” in the world, was designed in the late 1950s to help teach people lifesaving cardiopulmonary resuscitation techniques.… Read More »
In 2019, a study conducted by Union College discovered that while joining a fraternity during college decreased a student’s GPA by an average of 0.25 points, it also led to a 36% increase in their future earnings. This suggests that despite the potential academic impact, fraternity membership may provide valuable networking opportunities and other benefits… Read More »
A recent study conducted by YouGov, a prominent opinion research institute, revealed that approximately 20% of German parents regret having children and would choose a child-free life if given the opportunity. The survey included responses from 2,045 parents, with 19% of mothers and 20% of fathers expressing this sentiment. There have been similar studies conducted… Read More »
As a woodpecker relentlessly pecks at tree trunks, its tongue retracts into its skull and encircles the brain, providing essential protection from the intense vibrations. This remarkable adaptation is just one of the many unique traits of woodpeckers, who also possess specialized beaks and robust neck muscles, enabling them to efficiently drill into trees in… Read More »
During the 1930s, New York City’s sole commercial airport was located in New Jersey. In a bold act of protest, NYC Mayor LaGuardia refused to disembark in New Jersey when his ticket read “New York City,” compelling the pilot to fly him to NYC instead. This event highlighted the pressing need for a proper airport… Read More »
In 1981, American Airlines introduced the “lifetime unlimited AAirpass” at a cost of $250,000, which would be equivalent to around $870,000 in today’s currency. This exclusive pass granted lifetime access to unlimited first-class flights, and an additional companion pass could be obtained for an extra $150,000. The airline hoped that this initiative would generate substantial… Read More »
In the 2000s, major companies like Google, Apple, Adobe, and Intel, along with other corporate giants, conspired to avoid poaching each other’s employees in an effort to suppress wages. This collusion ultimately resulted in a $400 million class-action lawsuit. This illegal practice, known as a “no-poaching” or “anti-poaching” agreement, stifled employee mobility and salary growth… Read More »
Between 2001 and 2009, the United States experienced widespread health concerns related to Chinese drywall. During this period, large quantities of this imported drywall were brought into the country, primarily due to rebuilding efforts in the South-East following hurricanes. The drywall would gradually emit harmful chemicals, such as hydrogen sulfide, leading to the corrosion of… Read More »
Judaism ranks as the second most prevalent religion in New York City, boasting a Jewish community larger than the combined populations of Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. This vibrant metropolis is home to a diverse array of Jewish traditions, including the Hasidic, Modern Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform movements. New York City’s Jewish heritage can be traced… Read More »
Ronald Read, a Vermont gas station attendant and janitor, had accumulated a net worth of nearly $8 million at the time of his death in 2015. Described as “a blue-collar guy with blue-chip smarts,” Read invested in a diverse range of companies that paid generous dividends, focusing on well-established businesses and avoiding technology stocks. His… Read More »
Voltaire, the famed French philosopher and writer, amassed considerable wealth by exploiting a flaw in the French lottery system of the early 18th century. Alongside mathematician Charles Marie de La Condamine and a group of collaborators, they seized a lucrative opportunity presented by the French national lottery, which was designed to promote bond purchases. In… Read More »