How 7 Booming Cities Have Changed Over the Past Decade, in Pictures

filed under: cities
Image credit: 
iStock

Americans are flocking to cities in high numbers—and you can see it in the skylines. A renewed interest in urban living and the concentration of new tech jobs in cities have led to a boom in new urban construction, and not just in places that are notorious for recent growth like San Francisco or Austin.

The apartment search site RENTCafé put together a comparison of Street View images of different urban intersections with notable growth over the past decade or so that allow you to visualize just how dramatically some city skylines have changed. Below are seven different visual comparisons from cities across the country. Toggle the slider back and forth to compare images from 2007 to today.

1. MASON STREET LOW-INCOME HOUSING // SAN FRANCISCO

2. BAYSIDE AT THE EMBARCADERO DEVELOPMENT // SAN DIEGO

3. DOPPLER – AMAZON HEADQUARTERS // SEATTLE

4. CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT // CHARLOTTE

5. L.A. LIVE ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX // LOS ANGELES

6. AUSTONIAN CONDOS // AUSTIN

7. SKYLINE // MANHATTAN

All images from Google Street View via RENTCafé unless otherwise noted

Know of something you think we should cover? Email us at tips@mentalfloss.com.


October 31, 2016 – 11:00am

Is Daylight Saving Time to Blame for Seasonal Depression?

Image credit: 
iStock

The precise root cause of seasonal depression has eluded scientists for years. Now researchers think they’ve found the answer: daylight saving time. They published their report in the journal Epidemiology.

Seasonal depression or seasonal affective disorder (SAD) affects around 1.6 billion people across the globe. Its symptoms mirror those of generalized depression; what differentiates SAD is the timing of its onset, which coincides with winter’s shorter days and long, dark nights.

We know that sunlight, or the absence of it, has a powerful effect on our bodies. But scientists have yet to find a definitive physiological link between darkness and SAD, a fact that makes some wonder if there aren’t other variables at play.

Previous studies have found a relationship between the shift from daylight saving into standard time and other health problems, but they had not looked specifically at the transition’s effect on depression. To get a better idea, an international team of researchers looked at Danish hospital intake records from 1995 to 2012, including 185,419 diagnoses of depression.

As expected, they saw an increase in hospital admissions for depression as winter descended. But that increase spiked at one particular time: the month immediately following the changing of clocks.

The researchers controlled for variables like day length and weather, which they say confirms that the 8 percent rise in depression diagnoses was not a coincidence.

And while their study focused on people with severe depression, the authors say the time shift likely affects “the entire spectrum of severity.”

Though the study did not identify the mechanism responsible for time change–related depression, the researchers believe it may have something to do with the way daylight saving manipulates our hours of light and dark. Danish daylight saving protocol steals an hour of daylight from the afternoon and moves it to the early morning—a time, the authors say, when most people are indoors anyway.

“We probably benefit less from the daylight in the morning between seven and eight, because many of us are either in the shower, eating breakfast or sitting in a car or bus on the way to work or school. When we get home and have spare time in the afternoon, it is already dark,” co-author Søren D. Østergaard of Aarhus University Hospital said in a statement.

Then there are the psychological effects. In changing the clocks, we are forced to acknowledge the arrival of months of darkness, a realization that Østergaard says “is likely to be associated with a negative psychological effect.”

Fortunately, while we still don’t fully understand the causes of SAD, we have found effective treatments. If you find yourself depressed as the year winds down, talk to your doctor and look into a therapeutic light box.

Know of something you think we should cover? Email us at tips@mentalfloss.com.


October 31, 2016 – 10:30am

The British exclusively swam breaststroke…

The British exclusively swam breaststroke in competition until the 19th century. In 1844, a Native American came to London and won a competition swimming front crawl, a stroke never seen by the Western world, who then regarded it as “un-European”.

This ‘Rocky Horror’ House Light Show Wins Halloween

filed under: halloween, video

Watch the above video and you might suddenly feel very self-conscious about your halfhearted attempts at pumpkin carving.

The elaborate, synchronized light display—which features flickering scenes and a soundtrack from The Rocky Horror Picture Show—is part of Riverside, California resident Kevin Judd’s annual Halloween extravaganza. Every season, he installs an LED presentation on a residential property for the amusement of locals. The Rocky Horror theme follows his 2015 effort, which featured pumpkins singing Ray Parker, Jr.’s Ghostbusters theme:

Judd began staging the displays in 2008, garnering an audience of just a few residents on his block. But in 2011, videos of his displays began going viral, and thousands of spectators started showing up to enjoy the show. This created a bit of a problem with the local Homeowner’s Association, which didn’t particularly appreciate the blocked driveways and discarded trash. But: singing pumpkins!

If you want to try and emulate his work, you’re in luck: Judd heads up Creative Lighting Displays, a business devoted to helping other lighting enthusiasts design and program the presentations.

Know of something you think we should cover? Email us at tips@mentalfloss.com.


October 31, 2016 – 10:15am

Get Monday’s Best Amazon Deals While You Can

Image credit: 
amazon / istock

As a recurring feature, our team combs the Web and shares some amazing Amazon deals we’ve turned up. Here’s what caught our eye today, October 31.

Mental Floss has affiliate relationships with certain retailers, including Amazon, and may receive a small percentage of any sale. But we only get commission on items you buy and don’t return, so we’re only happy if you’re happy. Good luck deal hunting!

GADGETS AND ELECTRONICS

Apple iPhone 6s 64GB Unlocked GSM Smartphone – Space Gray (Certified Refurbished) for $469.99 (list price $589.95)

Apple iPhone 6s 16GB Unlocked GSM Smartphone – Rose Gold (Certified Refurbished) for $419.99 (list price $529.95)

AUKEY Optic iPhone Lens, 160° Fisheye Lens + 20x Macro Mini Clip-on Cell Phone Camera Lenses Kit for Samsung, Android Smartphones, iPhone for $9.599 (list price $32.99)

AUKEY Ora iPhone Lens, 180° Fisheye Lens + 10x Macro Clip-on Cell Phone Camera Lenses Kit for Samsung, Android Smartphones, iPhone for $19.99 (list price $29.99)

Protectif Leather RFID Blocking Front Pocket Wallet with Zipper, Card Sleeves and Id Window – Brown for $11.99

Photive HYDRA Waterproof Wireless Bluetooth Speaker. Rugged Shockproof and Waterproof Portable Wireless Speaker for $34.95 (list price $129.95) 

TaoTronics Bluetooth Receiver / Car Kit, TaoTronics Portable Wireless Audio Adapter 3.5 mm Stereo Output (Bluetooth 4.0, A2DP, Built-in Microphone) for Home Audio Music Streaming Sound System for $13.59 (list price $24.99)

LC Prime Aroma Guitar Amp Mini Portable Clip Amplifier Speaker Recorder 2 in 1 Chargeable w/ TF Card Slot for Acoustic, Electric Guitar, Violin for $35.99 (list price $65.98)

ETELIK Ready R1 Wireless Headphone, Super Standby Stereo Sport Bluetooth Headset with Noise Cancelling, Sweat and Waterproof, Stable and Comfortable Fit Earbuds with Mic for Running (Black) for $39.99 (list price $69.99)

Hibate Metal Luggage Tag Suitcase Bag Travel Labels Accessories – Set of 7 for $8.98 (list price $17.99)

Famili FM253 Digital Portable Hanging Suitcase Baggage Weighter Electronic Travel Luggage Weighting Scale with LCD Display, 110lbs/50kg, Black for $6.99 (list price $9.99)

Anker 60W/12A 6-Port USB Charger PowerPort 6 for iPhone 6/6 Plus, iPad Air 2/mini 3, Samsung Galaxy s6/s6 edge, Note 5 and More for $25.49 (list price $79.99)

Denon HEOS 3 Wireless Speaker (Black) (New Version) for $179.00 (list price $299.00)

Certified Refurbished Amazon Fire TV (Previous Generation – 1st) for $69.99 (list price $94.00)

Wireless Headphone, QCY QY12 Bluetooth 4.1 Waterproof Sports Headsets with Mic,Magnetic CVC 6.0 Noise Cancelling for Running, Biking, Exercising for $26.99 (list price $59.99)

Villain – 20000mAh Portable Charger – with 2 Built-in Flash LEDs – Dual USB – Ideal Power Bank for $29.99 (list price $79.97)

Car Charger, Maxboost 4.8A/24W 2 Smart Port Car Charger [Black] for iPhone 7 6S Plus 6 Plus 6 5SE 5S 5 5C 4S, Samsung Galaxy S7 S6 Edge, Note 5 4 S5 Tab S,LG G5 G4,HTC,Nexus 5X 6P,iPads Pro Portable for $9.99 (list price $19.95)

Panasonic Link2Cell Bluetooth KX-TGE274S 4 Handsets Corldess Phone with Large Keypad, Silver for $88.99 (list price $129.95)

Anker PowerCore 20100 – Ultra High Capacity Power Bank with 4.8A Output, PowerIQ Technology for iPhone, iPad and Samsung Galaxy and More (Black) for $39.99 (list price $79.99)

OMOTON iPhone 7 Plus Screen Protector [2 Pack]- [9H Hardness] [Crystal Clear] [Bubble Free] [3D Touch Compatible] Tempered Glass Screen Protector for Apple iPhone 7 Plus for $7.99 (list price $13.99)

Fitueyes Universal LCD Flat Screen TV Table Top Stand / Base Mount fits 42″ to 65” TV TT06801MB for $24.99 (list price $49.00)

iPad Stand, Apor Tablet Stand Portable Folding Adjustable iPad Pro Stand Tablet Holders for 7-10 Inch Pad, Smartphones, Samsung Galaxy Tab, Kindle Fire E-Readers, iPad Air and More – Black for $7.49 (list price $18.99)

SanDisk Ultra 64GB microSDXC UHS-I Card with Adapter, Grey/Red, Standard Packaging (SDSQUNC-064G-GN6MA) for $19.99 (list price $59.99)

NETGEAR Nighthawk AC1900 Dual Band Wi-Fi Gigabit Router (R7000) with Open Source Support for $159.99 (list price $249.99)

USB charger, Jelly Comb Rapid-Charging 6-Port Desktop USB Hub/Charging Station with Smart Identification Technology for Apple iOS, Android & Virtually all Other USB Compatible Devices – Black for $15.99 (list price $29.99)

Syncwire iPhone Charger Lightning Cable 3.3ft -[Apple MFi Certified] Series – Sync & Charging Cord for iPhone 7 Plus 6S Plus 6 Plus SE 5S 5C 5, iPad 2 3 4 Mini Air Pro, iPod -White for $7.99 (list price $20.00)

NETGEAR AC750 WiFi Range Extender (EX3700-100NAS) for $39.98 (list price $69.98)

TCL 50FS3800 50-Inch 1080p Roku Smart LED TV (2015 Model) for $378.00 (list price $599.99)

Mens Unique Analog Quartz Leather Band Dress Wrist Watch Waterproof Classic Business Casual Fashion Design Scratch Resistant Face Calendar Date Window Phase 98FT 30M 3ATM Water Resistant – Black for $14.99 (list price $29.99)

Seiko Men’s SSC233 Sport Solar Brushed Brown Stainless Steel Watch for $155.00 (list price $325.00)

Stuhrling Original Men’s 699.02 Aviator Quartz Day and Date Grey Dial Brown Leather Band Watch for $82.28 (list price $525.00)

Stuhrling Original Delphi Automatic Watch – Grey Skeleton Dial Wrist Watch for Men – Stainless Steel Brown Leather Analog Watch 730.02 for $102.96 (list price $625.00)

KITCHEN

Contigo SnapSeal Byron Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel Travel Mug, 20oz, Gunmetal for $8.99 (list price $19.99)

di Oro Living Silicone Spatula Set – 3-piece 600ºF Heat-Resistant Baking Spoon & Spatulas) for $19.97 (list price $39.95)

Victorinox 8 Inch Fibrox Pro Chef’s Knife 40520, 47520, 45520 Frustration Free Packaging for $44.95 (list price $54.00)

Cuisinart 44-10N Contour Stainless 10-Piece Cookware Set for $96.82 (list price $400.00)

Totally Bamboo 5-Piece Utensil Set, Includes 100% Bamboo Turner, Slotted Spatula, Spoon, Single Hole Mixing Spoon for $5.99

Oye Stainless Steel Garlic Press – Easy Clean for $12.95 (list price $25.95)

Top Rated Bellemain Stainless Steel Potato Ricer with 3 Interchangeable Fineness Discs-Full 2-Year Warranty for $16.95 (list price $34.99)

Hamilton Beach Set ‘n Forget Programmable Slow Cooker With Temperature Probe, 6-Quart (33967A) for $37.71 (list price $49.99)

Super Kitchen Food Grade Non-stick Silicon Baking Oven Mat Liner For Sheet Pans Cooling Rack 16 By 12 In (1, blue) for $8.99 (list price $25.00)

Anolon Advanced Bronze Hard Anodized Nonstick 12-Inch Covered Deep Skillet for $42.95 (list price $120.00)

Lodge EC6D13 Dutch Oven, 6 quart, Oyster White for $68.16

Lodge L8SGP3 Cast Iron Square Grill Pan, Pre-Seasoned, 10.5-inch for $19.97 (list price $32.99)

Lifver 10-inch Porcelain Serving Platter/Rectangular Plates, Natural White, Set of 3 for $19.99 (list price $23.51)

Le Creuset Stoneware Petite Espresso Mug, 3.5-Ounce, Palm for $9.95 (list price $15.00)

Oster CKSTSTMD5-W 5-Quart Food Steamer, White for $19.20 (list price $29.99)

Nespresso A+D40-US-SI-NE Inissia C40 Silver Bundle, Silver for $139.99 (list price $199.00)

Mr. Coffee Grind n Brew Coffeemaker with Built-In Grinder and Travel Mug, SCGB200 for $63.99 (list price $79.99)

Instant Pot IP-LUX50 6-in-1 Programmable Pressure Cooker, 5Qt/900W, Stainless Steel Cooking Pot and Exterior for $74.95 (list price $190.00)

Hamilton Beach 22811 Keep Warm 2-Slice Toaster for $19.99 (list price $35.97)

Frazoni Nonstick Silicone Baking Mat, 28 x 42 cm, Red and White for $6.95 (list price $12.95)

Cuisipro 6-Sided Box Grater with Bonus Ginger Grater for $26.98 (list price $38.00)

Cooks Standard Stainless Steel Stockpot with Cover, 6-Quart for $26.56 (list price $49.99)

BeaterBlade KA-6L Metro Design Beater Blade for KitchenAid 6-Quart Bowl Lift Mixer and 5 Plus Series 5Qt Stand Mixers, White for $17.99 (list price $29.99)

Bellemain 4 oz. Porcelain Ramekins, Set of 6 for $12.95 (list price $14.99)

AmazonBasics Digital Kitchen Scale with LCD Display for $9.99 

KitchenAid KSM1APC Spiralizer Attachment with Peel, Core and Slice for $70.60 (list price $129.99)

Marquis by Waterford Harper Flute, Pair, 7oz, Clear for $35.77 (list price $49.00)

Fox Run Brands 2.75-Quart Stainless Steel Mixing Bowl for $5.90 (list price $6.59)

Ball Fruit Fresh Produce Protector 5oz (Pack of 1) for $3.48 (list price $5.49)

Stainless Steel Drinking Straws, Set of 4, Fits Both 30 oz and 20 oz RTIC Tumblers | Universally Fits all Yeti & Ozark Trail Tumblers, Cleaning Brush Included for $6.88 (list price $19.99)

Simple Modern Tumbler Vacuum Insulated 20oz Slim Cruiser with Lid – Double Walled Stainless Steel Travel Mug – Sweat Free Coffee Cup – Compare to Yeti and Contigo – Powder Coated Flask – Cherry Red for $17.99 (list price $29.99)

Rubbermaid FreshWorks Produce Saver Food Storage Container 2-piece Set, Small / Large, Green for $16.99 (list price $19.99)

Rome’s 1805 Round Pie Iron with Steel and Wood Handles for $12.98 (list price $19.99)

Pridebit Kitchen Scissors/Shears Multifunction Heavy Duty Come-Apart Kitchen Shears with Magnetic Holder for $8.95 (list price $20.95)

George Foreman GR136B 2-Serving Classic Plate Grill and Pannini Press, Black for $19.99 (list price $30.00)

HOME

Extra Plush Bamboo Top Fitted Mattress Pad, King for $89.99 (list price $119.99)

Ikea 172.283.40 Frakta Shopping Bag, Large, Blue, Set of 5 for $10.60 (list price $17.99)

Instapark LCL Series Battery-powered Flameless LED Tealight Candles, Pack of 24 for $11.99 (list price $44.00)

Morning Star Sandalwood Incense 200 Sticks for $8.26 (list price $10.00)

WE Furniture 58″ Wood TV Stand Storage Console, Espresso for $109.99 (list price $119.00)

Zeroedge Stick-on Anywhere Portable 10-LED Wireless Motion Sensing Closet Cabinet LED Night Light / Stairs Light / Step Light Bar (Battery Operated) for $10.55 (list price $19.99)

Moso Natural Air Purifying Bag, Charcoal Color, 200-G for $9.95 (list price $14.95)

Pet Hair Eraser Cordless Hand Vacuum for $49.99 

simplehuman Countertop Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel, 1.5 L / 0.40 Gal for $14.99

KMASHI Essential Oil Diffuser for Aromatherapy, 100ml Air Humidifier with Adjustable Mist Mode and 7 Colors Changing for $15.99 (list price $49.99)

LUCID Premium Hypoallergenic 100% Waterproof Mattress Protector – 15 Year Warranty – Vinyl Free – Queen for $21.99 (list price $39.99)

Hippih 10″ Silent Quartz Decorative Wall Clock Non-ticking Black 249-A for $7.99 (list price $13.99)

Hoover WindTunnel 2 Rewind Bagless Upright Vacuum, UH70825 – Corded for $57.25 (list price $129.99)

DeLonghi PACN110EC 11,000 BTU 3 in 1 Portable Air Conditioner for $227.29 (list price $449.99)

Pinzon Overfilled Microplush Mattress Pad – King for $55.24 (list price $59.99)

Honeywell HCM350W Germ Free Cool Mist Humidifier, White for $57.63 (list price $69.99)

6 Piece 1500 Thread Count Egyptian Quality Deep Pocket Bed Sheet Set – 2 EXTRA PILLOW CASES, GREAT VALUE – Queen, Multiple Colors Available for $26.35 (list price $31.00)

Lasko 751320 Ceramic Tower Heater with Remote Control for $49.99 (list price $56.72)

Sterilite 19889804 70 Quart/ 66 Liter Ultra Latch Box, White Lid & Clear Base w/ Latches, 4-Pack for $35.99 (list price $90.00)

Winsome 92436 Luggage Rack with Shelf for $37.32 (list price $59.00)

Epica Extra Thick Non-Slip Area Rug Pad 5 x 8 for any hard Surface Floor, Keeps Your Rugs Safe and in Place for $12.95 (list price $27.95)

Vornado 660 Whole Room Air Circulator for $75.01 (list price $139.99)

Signature Sleep Memoir 12-Inch Memory Foam Mattress with CertiPUR-US Certified Foam, Queen. Available in Multiple Sizes for $299.00 (list price $515.00)

Krinner Christmas Tree Genie XXL Christmas Tree Stand for $67.10 (list price $109.99)

ClosetMaid 58657 Cubeicals Fabric Drawer, Gray for $5.05 (list price $8.99)

OXO Good Grips Microfiber Delicate Duster for $6.95 (list price $6.99)

Winix 5300-2 Air Purifier with True HEPA, PlasmaWave and Odor Reducing Carbon Filter for $137.06 (list price $199.99)

HEALTH AND BEAUTY

Gillette Mach3 Men’s Razor Blade Refills 10 Count (packaging may vary) for $14.32 (list price $28.99)

Aveeno Active Naturals Daily Moisturizing Lotion, 18 Ounce for $6.09 (list price $15.18)

Dove Men+Care Antiperspirant Deodorant Stick, Extra Fresh 2.7 oz, Twin Pack for $6.09 (list price $12.56)

Radha Beauty Vitamin C Anti-aging Serum for Face, 2 fl. oz. for $15.95 (list price $49.99)

LuckyFine Blackhead Remover Cleaner Purifying Deep Cleansing Acne Black Mud Face Mask Peel-off (#1) for $4.99 (list price $10.40)

Biotin (High Potency) 5000mcg Per Veggie Softgel; Enhanced with Coconut Oil for better absorption; Supports Hair Growth, Glowing Skin and Strong Nails; 120 Mini-Veggie Softgels; Made In USA. for $14.95 (list price $29.95)

Aveeno Therapeutic Shave Gel, 7 Oz for $3.83 (list price $9.99)

Aesthetica Cosmetics Beauty Sponge Blender – Latex Free and Vegan Makeup Sponge – For Powder, Cream or Liquid Application – One Piece for $12.00 (list price $19.00)

Eye Cream for Puffiness, Dark Circles, Wrinkles & Bags – The most effective eye gel for every eye concern – All Natural Ingredients – 0.5 fl oz for $15.95 (list price $59.99)

Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer with Broad Spectrum SPF 15, 4 Oz for $10.92 (list price $22.41)

Best Blends Set of 6 100% Pure, Best Therapeutic Grade Essential Oil – 6/10mL (Breathe, Good Night, Head Ease, Muscle Relief, Stress Relief, and Health Shield) for $19.99 (list price $40.95)

Aveeno Positively Radiant Skin Brightening Daily Scrub, 5 Oz for $4.80 (list price $7.69)

Kenz Laurenz No Crease Elastic Ribbon Ponytail Holders Hair Bands, Prints and Solids, 100 Ties for $12.95 (list price $49.95)

Wahl Chrome Pro 24 pc Haircut Kit #79524-2501 for $19.99 (list price $40.95)

Tea Tree Oil Foot Soak With Epsom Salt, Helps Treat Nail Fungus , Athletes Foot & Stubborn Foot Odor 16oz for $19.49 (list price $33.90)

Oral-B Glide Pro-Health Deep Clean Cool Mint Flavor Floss Twin Pack 80 M for $5.19 (list price $18.90)

Oleavine Antifungal Soap with Tea Tree and Neem for Body, 12 oz for $14.70 (list price $29.95)

Nautica Blue Eau De Toilette Spray for Men, 3.4 fluid ounce for $10.49 (list price $55.00)

MUJI Makeup Facial Soft Cut Cotton Unbleached 60×50 mm 180pcs for $6.70 (list price $18.00)

Schick Hydro Silk Shower Ready Moisturizing Razor Blade Refills for Women – 4 Count (Packaging May Vary) for $12.51 (list price $20.99)

PURELL Advanced Hand Sanitizer NATURALS 12oz Pump Bottle (Pack of 2) for $7.82 (list price $18.00)

DevaCurl Original DUO – One Condition 32oz + No-Poo 32oz for $51.30 (list price $119.90)

Pint of Blood Standard (16 Fl Oz) for $4.59 (list price $10.90)

Aesthetica Cosmetics Cream Contour and Highlighting Makeup Kit – Contouring Foundation / Concealer Palette – Vegan, Cruelty Free & Hypoallergenic – Step-by-Step Instructions Included for $35.00 (list price $59.95)

Schick Quattro for Women Ultra Smooth Razor Blade Refills Enhanced with Papaya and Pearl Complex – 8 Count for $14.34 (list price $20.99)

Aveeno Baby Eczema Therapy Moisturizing Cream, 7.3 Fl. Oz for $9.79 (list price $11.49)

Colgate 360 Degree Adult Full Head Toothbrush, Soft, 4 Count for $8.07 (list price $17.19)

Organic Anti Acne spot Treatment – The only 100% natural acne scar removal cream for sensitive skin that is 100% Vegan, Gluten-free, Non-GMO made only with botanical ingredients and plant extracts for $13.95 (list price $49.99)

QingHan 40Pcs Baby Girl Grosgrain Ribbon Boutique Hair Bows For Teens Baby Girls Babies Toddlers for $29.99 (list price $39.99)


OFFICE, SCHOOL, AND CRAFTS

Eparon 40 Piece Gel Pen Set for $7.99 (list price $14.99)

Tanmit Colored Glitter Gel Pens Set – 36 Pack Color Pen Perfect for Adults & Kids Coloring Books, Drawing, Writing, Doodle, Office, Art and Craft for $8.99 (list price $30.00)

Paper Mate InkJoy Gel Pens, Medium Point, Assorted Colors, 14-Count for $16.99 (list price $40.33)

BenchPro LNT-UC-3L Deluxe Polyurethane HD Cleanroom Lab Chair/Workbench Stool with Footring, 450 lbs Capacity, 18.5″ Width x 21″-31″ Height x 18″ Depth for $146.24 (list price $164.00)

Uni-Ball Jetstream Retractable Ball Point Pens, Bold Point, Blue Ink, 3-Count for $7.50 (list price $10.49)

BenchPro LNT-UC-3L Deluxe Polyurethane HD Cleanroom Lab Chair/Workbench Stool with Footring, 450 lbs Capacity, 18.5″ Width x 21″-31″ Height x 18″ Depth for $146.24 (list price $164.00)

Scotch Long Lasting Storage Packaging Tape, 1.88 Inches x 54.6 Yards, 4 Rolls (3650-4) for $8.99 (list price $21.99)

RamPro 3pc World’s Most Efficient 3″ Letter Opener Envelope Slitter Set for $6.29 (list price $12.99)

Prismacolor Premier Double-Ended Art Markers, Fine and Brush Tip, 24-Count with Carrying Case for $34.42 (list price $161.46)

Post-it 60 per Package 0.94-Inch Wide Color Mixing Flags with Gingham Pattern Collection, Assorted Colors (680-PLAID2) for $5.68 

Post-it Pop-up Notes, 3 x 3-Inches, Canary Yellow, 12 pads for $11.53 (list price $19.26)

Epson WorkForce WF-2630 Wireless Business AIO Color Inkjet, Print, Copy, Scan, Fax, Mobile Printing, AirPrint, Compact Size for $59.99 (list price $89.99)

Scotch Multi-Purpose Scissor, 8-Inches (1428) for $2.99 (list price $6.19)

Parker Jotter 3 Colours – 1 Black + 1 Blue + 1 Red Ballpoint Pen for $13.99

Duck Brand Bubble Wrap Original Cushioning, 12-Inches x 150-Feet, Single Roll (284054) for $9.00 (list price $20.99)

EXPO Low-Odor Dry Erase Set, Fine Point, Assorted Colors, 7-Piece with Cleaner for $5.94 (list price $9.39)

Prismacolor Premier Water-Soluble Colored Pencils, 36-Count for $28.89 (list price $59.99)

Mr. Sketch Washable Scented Watercolor Markers, Chisel Tip, Assorted Colors, 14-Count for $8.03 (list price $14.99)

Scotch Box Sealing Tape Dispenser H180, 2 in for $16.00 (list price $25.50)

Avery Self-Adhesive Removable Labels, 3 x 4 Inches, White, 80 per Pack (5453) for $3.08 (list price $8.61)

Sharpie Color Burst Permanent Markers, Ultra Fine Point, Assorted Colors, 24-Count for $15.02 (list price $35.38)

Paper Mate SharpWriter Mechanical Pencils, 0.7mm, HB #2, 36-Count for $7.89 (list price $18.14)

Strathmore Series 400 Sketch Pads 9 in. x 12 in. – pad of 100 for $8.99 (list price $12.89)

OUTDOORS, GARDEN, AND SPORTS

Bounty Hunter QSIGWP Quick Silver Metal Detector With Pin Pointer for $82.99 (list price $149.00)

2 x HeroBeam LED Lantern V2.0 with Flashlight – 2016 COB Technology emits 300 LUMENS! – Collapsible Tough Lamp – 5 YEAR WARRANTY for $19.77 (list price $33.97)

Perfect Point PP-060-9 Throwing Knife Set with Nine Knives, Black Blades, Red Cord-Wrapped Handles, 6-1/4-Inch Overall for $15.49 (list price $19.99)

HOLDPEAK 866B Digital Anemometer – THE BEST Wind Speed Meter Measures Wind Speed + Temperature + Wind Chill with Backlight for $22.99 (list price $84.53)

Compact Automatic Travel Umbrella with 10-Rib Strong Windproof Waterproof Anti UV – Sturdy,Portable and Lightweight for Easy Carrying – Auto Open/Close with Ergonomic Handle,Quality Assurance for $17.99 (list price $19.85)

Solar Light,URPOWER 8 LED Outdoor Solar Powerd,Wireless Waterproof Security Motion Sensor Light for Patio, Deck, Yard, Garden,Driveway,Outside Wall with 2 Modes Motion Activated Auto On/Off(4 Pack) for $39.99 (list price $52.99)

Gerber Bear Grylls Parang Machete [31-002289] for $24.30 (list price $55.00)

ThermoPro TP20 Wireless Remote Digital Cooking Food Meat Thermometer with Dual Probe for Smoker Grill Oven BBQ for $50.99 (list price $69.99)

KONG Cozie Buster, Medium Dog Toy, Grey for $5.49 (list price $9.49)

Nature’s Miracle Pet Urine Destroyer, 1-Gallon for $16.08 (list price $44.56)

Wolfyok Portable Outdoor Traveling Sleeping Bag, Hiking Envelope Sleeping Bag, Multifunctional Camping Sleeping Bag for Spring, Summer, Autumn for $26.99 (list price $49.99)

Intex Comfort Plush Mid Rise Dura-Beam Airbed with Built-in Electric Pump, Bed Height 13″, Queen for $47.53 (list price $99.99)

Infityle LED Headlamp – Waterproof IPX5 200 Lumens LED Head Lamp Flash Working Lights(Black+Blue) for $16.99 (list price $49.99)

Camelbak Products Chute Water Bottle, Charcoal, 1-Liter for $11.19 (list price $14.00)

Nelson 50956 Eight-Pattern Spray Head Stationary Sprinkler with Decorative Metal Base for $12.99 (list price $17.99)

BlizeTec Survival Knife: Best 5-in-1 Tactical Pocket Folding Knife with LED Light, Seatbelt Cutter, Glass Breaker & Magnesium Fire Starter for $38.98 (list price $89.99)

TOOLS

Dremel 7300-PT 4.8V Pet Nail Grooming Tool for $24.23 (list price $45.98)

BLACK+DECKER LDX120C 20-Volt MAX Lithium-Ion Cordless Drill/Driver for $45.99

Black & Decker 15557 Drill Bit Set, 10-Piece for $4.50 (list price $7.00)

Tuff Stuff Multi Purpose Foam Cleaner for Deep Cleaning – 22 oz. (1.37 lbs) for $3.47 (list price $4.99)

Brightown Clear Globe G40 Screw Base Light Bulbs, 1.5-Inch, Pack of 25 for $12.80 (list price $35.00)

Master Lock 4688DSLV TSA Accepted Cable Luggage Lock, Silver for $5.46 (list price $9.21)

Gorilla Original Gorilla Glue Minis, 12 g, Brown for $4.58 (list price $6.79)

Gorilla Clear Repair Duct Tape, 1.88″ x 9 yd., Clear for $6.19 (list price $15.99)

Vastar 3 Pack Drain Snake Hair Drain Clog Remover Cleaning Tool for $5.99 (list price $15.99)

TP-Link Smart Wi-Fi A19 LED Bulb, Works with Alexa, 2700K Dimmable White, No Hub Required, 60W Equivalent, 1-Pack (LB110) for $24.99 

3M WorkTunes Hearing Protector, MP3 Compatible with AM/FM Tuner (90541-4DC) for $34.00 (list price $69.99)

Stanley STMT71648 40-Piece Socket Set for $19.97 (list price $42.99)

Best Light Motion Activated Toilet Night Light Toilet Nightlight for $10.98 (list price $21.99)

Tabiger Soldering Iron Kit 60W 110V-Adjustable Temperature Welding Soldering Iron with Tool Carry Case, 5pcs Different Soldering Tips, Desoldering Pump, Y Stand, Anti-Static Tweezers and Solder Wire for $20.99 (list price $69.99)

Quakehold! 44111 13-Ounce Museum Wax for $10.49 (list price $11.99)

DEWALT DWHT10272 Folding Pocket Knife for $10.99 (list price $12.84)

General Tools 828 Digital Sliding T-Bevel Gauge & Digital Protractor in One for $20.59 (list price $34.99)

IRWIN VISE-GRIP GrooveLock Pliers, V-Jaw, 10″ (2078110) for $14.71 (list price $24.78)

Bosch GT3000 Glass and Tile Bit Set, 8-Piece for $34.95 (list price $55.58)



October 31, 2016 – 12:42pm

Amazon Product Id: 
B00R92CL5E

12 Halloween Traditions From Around the World

Image credit: 
Alfredo Estrella/AFP/Getty Images

Although most Americans spend Halloween at festive costume parties or trick-or-treating with family, other countries have their own rituals and customs. Here are 12 Halloween (and Halloween-like) traditions from around the world.

1. DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS // MEXICO

From November 1 to November 2, people celebrate Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) to honor the dead throughout Mexico and parts of Latin America. It is believed that the Gates of Heaven open up at midnight on October 31 and the souls of children return to Earth to be reunited with their families for 24 hours. On November 2, the souls of adults come down from Heaven to join in the festivities.

The holiday is celebrated with in-home altars full of fruit, peanuts, turkey, soda, hot chocolate, water, and stacks of tortillas and special holiday bread called pan de muerto (bread of the dead), which are left as offerings for weary ghosts. For the souls of children, families leave out toys and candies, while adult souls receive cigarettes and shots of mezcal.

2. KAWASAKI HALLOWEEN PARADE // JAPAN

At the end of every October for the past 20 years, almost 4,000 costumed Halloween enthusiasts from all around the world gather just outside Tokyo in Kawasaki for the Kawasaki Halloween Parade, which is the biggest such parade in Japan. However, not everyone can simply join in the festivities. The Kawasaki Halloween Parade has strict guidelines and standards, so you have to apply for entry two months before the parade begins. There’s also a Kawasaki Halloween Children’s Parade for kids under 6 years old that takes place a day before.

In addition, the Japanese also celebrate O-bon, a yearly Buddhist holiday that honors the spirits of a family’s ancestors. In some traditions, lanterns are hung in front of homes and temples to guide the spirits inside, as traditional dances are performed. Families also visit graves and offer food and treats to the dead.

3. PANGANGALULUWA // THE PHILIPPINES

Pangangaluluwa is a tradition in the Philippines where children go door to door, often in costumes. However, instead of saying “trick or treat,” the children ask for alms and prayers for those stuck in purgatory. This tradition has increasingly been supplanted by trick-or-treating, but some towns are reviving it as a local fundraiser.

4. DAY OF DRACULA // ROMANIA

DANIEL MIHAILESCU/AFP/Getty Images

People from all around the world flock to celebrate Halloween at Vlad “The Impaler” Tepes’s purported home at Bran Castle in Transylvania, Romania (although it was never actually his castle, and there’s debate if he ever even visited the site). There are a number of guides and inclusive travel packages in Romania that offer tours and parties at Count Dracula’s castle for Halloween.

5. SAMHAIN // IRELAND

Ireland is considered the birthplace of modern Halloween with its origins stemming from ancient Celtic and Pagan rituals and a festival called Samhain (end of the light half of the year) that took place thousands of years ago. Modern Irish celebrate Halloween with bonfires, games, and traditional Irish foods like barmbrack, an Irish fruitcake that contains coins, buttons, and rings for fortunetelling. For example, rings mean marriage, while coins mean wealth in the upcoming year. 

6. ALL SAINTS’ DAY & ALL SOULS’ DAY // GERMANY

On November 1, Germans (and many other Catholics from around the world) celebrate All Saints’ Day (followed by All Souls’ Day on November 2). It’s an annual time to honor the lives of the saints who died for their Catholic beliefs, as well as the souls of dead family members. In observance of the holiday, people go to mass and visit the graves of their loved ones.

In addition, many Germans hide their kitchen knives, so returning spirits wouldn’t be accidentally harmed or use them to harm the living.

7. ZHONG YUAN JIE // SINGAPORE

During Zhong Yuan Jie, it is believed the Gates of Hell are opened and all Hell-beings are set free to roam the Earth. To honor the spirits, people take to the streets to burn joss sticks and paper money as offerings to their ancestors. Chinese opera is also offered up and performed to “empty” audiences to show respect to ghosts. During this time, many people avoid weddings, moving into new homes, and starting businesses as other ways to honor the spirits.

8. FESTIVAL OF HUNGRY GHOSTS // HONG KONG

TENGKU BAHAR/AFP/Getty Images

On the 15th day of the seventh lunar month, which is around mid-August to mid-September, the people of Hong Kong celebrate the Festival of Hungry Ghosts. It is believed around this time, restless spirits roam around the world, so several parts of East Asia appease and “feed” their ancestors’ ghosts with food and money for the afterlife. It’s part of a larger month-long celebration that also features burning paper, food offerings, and giving out free rice for the neighborhood.

9. PITRU PAKSHA // INDIA

For 16 days during the second Paksha of the Hindu lunar month of Bhadrapada, many people celebrate Pitru Paksha throughout India. Hindus believe when a person dies, the Hindu god of death, Yama, takes their souls to Purgatory, which also contains the last three generations of a family. During Pitru Paksha, the souls are released to be with their families on Earth before returning to Purgatory.

Families must perform the ritual of Shraddha to ensure their family’s place in the afterlife. If Shraddha isn’t performed, the soul wanders around the Earth for eternity. During Pitru Paksha, families offer the dead food, such as kheer (sweet rice and milk), lapsi (a sweet porridge), rice, lentils, spring beans, and pumpkins, which are cooked in silver or copper pots and served on banana leaves.

10. DZIEŃ ZADUSZNY // POLAND

On November 1-2, most people across Poland travel to graveyards to visit their dead family members. Dzień Zaduszny (or Zaduszki) is All Souls’ Day for Catholics in the country. The holiday is celebrated with candles, flowers, and an offering of prayers for departed relatives. On the second day, people attend a requiem mass for the souls of the dead.

11. AWURU ODO FESTIVAL // NIGERIA

The Awuru Odo Festival marks the return of dead friends and family back to the living. Lasting up to six months, the holiday is celebrated with a feast, music, and masks before the dead return to the spirit world. Although the Awuru Odo Festival is an important ritual, it happens once every two years when it is believed the spirits will return to Earth.

12. P’CHUM BEN // CAMBODIA

TANG CHHIN SOTHY/AFP/Getty Images

From the end of September to the middle of October, Buddhist families gather together to celebrate P’chum Ben, a religious holiday to honor and remember the dead. People give foods like sweet sticky rice and beans wrapped in banana leaves, and visit temples to offer up baskets of flowers as a way to pay respect to their deceased ancestors. It’s also a time for people to celebrate the elderly.


October 31, 2016 – 10:00am