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June 20, 2023

Six Fascinating Facts About Walmart

Walmart, a name synonymous with affordable retail and a staple of American consumerism, hides a trove of intriguing and sometimes peculiar stories behind its creation and operation.

Photo by depositphotos.com

1. Sam Walton, the founder of Walmart, embarked on his retail journey with a unique vision — to vend American-manufactured goods at the cost of foreign imports. This innovative strategy enabled Walton to provide an array of quality products at competitive prices, propelling Walmart to become a household name across the United States.

2. Walmart’s attempt to venture into the German market in the early 21st century didn’t quite end in a success story. Cultural misalignments, like the company’s insistence on enforced greetings and smiles from staff, along with some peculiar team-building activities, seemingly disconcerted the German populace. Consequently, Walmart couldn’t secure a foothold in Germany, leading to its withdrawal.

3. A rather unsettling fact is associated with Walmart’s employment practices from years past. The company came under scrutiny for taking out life insurance policies on its employees, benefiting from the payouts upon their demise. This controversial practice, grimly termed “Dead Peasant Insurance,” led to quite an uproar.

4. In the United States, Walmart’s reach is truly phenomenal. With 90% of the nation’s residents dwelling within a mere 10-mile radius of a Walmart outlet, its omnipresence is undeniable. However, this omnipresence doesn’t extend to New York City, where staunch opposition from local unions and politicians has kept the retail giant at bay.

5. Sam Walton, during the 1950s, would perform an aerial survey of his stores using a helicopter. This unusual method allowed him to count the parked cars and evaluate the performance of his stores.

6. In 2004, a landmark event occurred in Jonquière, Quebec, where Walmart employees took the initiative to unionize their local store. However, their success was short-lived. A mere five months later, Walmart pulled down the shutters on this outlet. The official statement cited dissatisfaction with the “business plan” put forth by the store, an event that sparked much speculation and debate.

June 20, 2023

Six Wonders of Octopus Intelligence: From Outsmarting Humans to Throwing Punches

When it comes to the vast world of marine life, the intelligence of octopuses is truly a spectacle that stands out. Beyond their inky excretions and dexterous arms, their intricate cognitive skills invite awe and curiosity. Here are seven fascinating facts that highlight the astonishing aptitude of these cephalopods:

1. Octopuses are among the most intellectually advanced species on Earth, demonstrating abilities to solve intricate puzzles, use tools, and even plan for the future. They are such cognitive marvels that in some jurisdictions, it’s required by law to administer anesthesia before any surgical procedure is performed on them.

2. The octopus brain is a decentralized marvel. They possess nine brains in total – a smaller one in each of their eight arms, and a central brain that regulates the whole system. These arm brains can independently taste, touch and perform rudimentary movements, yet, in the face of a larger task, they collaborate seamlessly under the directive of the central brain.

3. Researchers have documented instances of octopuses punching fish. While the motivations behind this surprising behavior remain a subject of speculation, it’s hypothesized that this may be a form of punishment. This fascinating behavior showcases the capacity of the octopus’s brain for complex cognition, despite its drastically different structure compared to human brains.

4. Meet Otto, another famously crafty octopus, notorious for causing a power outage at his aquarium. Agitated by a glaring 2000-watt spotlight, Otto figured out how to shoot water at the light, leading to a short circuit. Known for his antics, he was also caught juggling his tank mates, smashing glass with thrown rocks, and persistently aiming water jets at annoying light fixtures.

5. Showcasing a Houdini-like talent, Inky the Octopus made headlines with his great escape from New Zealand’s National Aquarium. Seizing the opportunity one night, he squeezed through a tiny hole in his tank, slid across the aquarium floor, and navigated his way through a drainpipe that led directly to the ocean – a grand escape indeed.

6. While octopuses are often solitary and show antisocial tendencies toward their own kind, an interesting experiment demonstrated a significant shift in behavior. When given MDMA, a psychoactive drug, these typically asocial creatures became notably more sociable, displaying what can only be described as “hugging” behavior towards each other.

June 20, 2023

Unveiling the Unconventional: 6 Fascinating Tidbits about Arnold Schwarzenegger

Arnold Schwarzenegger, an embodiment of the American Dream and an emblem of versatility, is more than just a superstar. As intriguing as his multifaceted life is, here are six captivating facts about the Austrian Oak that go beyond the silver screen.

1. From AWOL to America: In 1965, young Arnold daringly defied the mandatory year of military service in Austria to pursue his passion for bodybuilding. This bold decision landed him in military prison for a week, but it also paved his path to success. He won the bodybuilding contest he had deserted the army to participate in, which propelled him towards larger contests and ultimately a one-way ticket to America. Displaying a hint of nostalgia, Schwarzenegger even purchased the tank he had driven during his military service.

2. Self-Made Millionaire before Stardom: Schwarzenegger’s entrepreneurial spirit shone early on. Upon his arrival in America, he founded a bricklaying business. His acumen did not stop there; he invested wisely in real estate and a mail-order bodybuilding equipment company. By the age of 22, before he had even made his first movie, Schwarzenegger had become a self-made millionaire.

3. A Difficult Childhood: Arnold’s childhood was marred by the harsh realities of his father’s Nazi affiliations during World War II. A misunderstanding about his passion for bodybuilding led his parents to mistakenly believe he was gay, which resulted in mistreatment at home. Schwarzenegger chose to prioritize his career over personal relationships, a choice starkly highlighted when he skipped his father’s funeral due to a bodybuilding competition scheduled two months later.

4. A Real-Life Terminator Moment: On an amusing afternoon during the filming of The Terminator, Arnold stepped into a downtown L.A. restaurant for lunch, still wearing his gory Terminator makeup. Oblivious to his transformation, he requested a table in character. The unsuspecting host and restaurant patrons were sent into a frenzy at the sight of the terrifying figure from an as-yet-unknown movie.

5. The Voice That Wasn’t Enough: Despite his recognizable voice, Schwarzenegger was denied the opportunity to voice his character in the German dub of “The Terminator”. The producers felt his Austrian accent lacked the toughness befitting the Terminator, leading to an odd fact: Schwarzenegger has never dubbed his own voice in any of his movies.

6. Catchphrase King: Schwarzenegger’s iconic line “I’ll be back” from the Terminator series isn’t restricted to the dystopian franchise. This catchphrase has made its way into 11 other movies, including Commando, The Running Man, and Total Recall, establishing Arnold’s knack for leaving a memorable impression on his audience.

June 19, 2023

The Intricacies of Fatherhood: 7 Captivating Facts about Dads

Fatherhood, an intricate dance between parenting roles and societal influences, presents a fascinating tapestry that’s been woven over time. As we celebrate the role of fathers in society, let’s uncover five intriguing facts about dads that you might not have known.

1. The Growing Bond of Millennial Dads

Millennial fathers have been breaking traditional molds, spending three times more time with their kids than their fathers did with them. To highlight this evolution, a survey from 1982 discovered that 43% of fathers confessed to never having changed a diaper. Fast forward to today, and this figure has plummeted to a mere 3%, reflecting a shift in paternal responsibilities.

2. The Mysterious Origins of ‘Dad’

The term “Dad,” universally understood and cherished, has perplexingly elusive roots. Language experts believe it sprang from infantile or childish speech, given the absence of concrete historical or linguistic evidence pinpointing its origin.

3. The Peculiar Consequences of Fatherly Age

Research offers intriguing insights on the impact of a father’s age at the time of his child’s birth. Findings indicate that children born to older fathers may not be traditionally ‘attractive,’ but they carry a silver lining – these children tend to have longer lifespans compared to those born to younger fathers. While this correlation might seem perplexing, it reflects the complex interplay between genetics, age, and longevity.

4. The Deep-Seated Impact of Paternal Rejection

The emotional and psychological influence of fathers stretches far. Studies indicate that children rejected by their fathers are more prone to social anxiety and might struggle to form friendships, leading to potential long-term social disorders. This highlights the critical role fathers play in shaping their children’s emotional and social well-being.

5. The Screen Time vs. Dad Time Debate

When faced with the choice of watching TV or spending time with their fathers, a startling 54% of U.S. children aged 4-6 opted for the former. While this might initially appear disheartening, it serves as a reminder of the importance of nurturing engaging and meaningful bonds between fathers and their children.

6. The Unscripted Moment in ‘Kindergarten Cop’

Unbeknownst to many, a memorable scene in the movie “Kindergarten Cop” showcases more reality than acting. When Arnold Schwarzenegger asks the children, “Who is your daddy and what does he do?”, many of the child actors were actually sharing details about their real fathers’ occupations, as they weren’t given scripted lines.

7. The Unknowing Fathers

A poignant statistic reveals that approximately 4% of fathers are unknowingly not the biological parent of their child. This figure underscores the complexity of modern relationships and the diverse realities within the realm of fatherhood.

June 19, 2023

Quintet of Curiosities: Five Interesting Facts about Canada

If you’re planning a virtual trivia night or simply have an insatiable curiosity about global trivia, consider this your treasure trove of Canadian tidbits. Here are five fascinating facts about Canada that may surprise you.

For starters, in an unconventional practice lasting until 1971, the Canadian government used to issue identification numbers to the indigenous Inuit people instead of recognising their surnames. Accompanied by a leather disc imprinted with the assigned number, the Inuit were required to either carry these identifiers constantly or sew them into their garments. A unique chapter in Canada’s history, this reflects the country’s efforts to assimilate its indigenous population into the western bureaucratic system.

Next up, did you know Canada wasn’t always destined to be called ‘Canada’? The nation’s christening could have seen it named anything from ‘Albertsland’ to ‘Borealia’, ‘Britannia’, or even the unique ‘Tuponia’. However, it was the aboriginal word ‘Kanata’, translating to village or settlement, which prevailed. The possibility of labelling it “The Kingdom of Canada” was also considered but dismissed by the British Government, concerned it might ruffle American feathers.

In an exemplary demonstration of polite diplomacy, Canada boasts a unique ‘Apology Act‘. This legislation means that expressing regret or apology after an incident cannot be used as a confession or admittance of guilt in court. Such a law serves to maintain Canada’s reputation as a nation that prizes kindness and humility.

World War II offers another surprising anecdote. German prisoners of war held in Canada reportedly found their treatment so benevolent that they were reluctant to leave upon their release. Many even made life-altering decisions to remain or return to Canada, with one ex-prisoner appreciatively describing his time in Canadian confinement as “the best thing that happened to me.”

Finally, did you know that Canada is a haven for forests and freshwater? Home to 347 million hectares of forest, the country boasts 9% of the world’s total forested area. In addition, Canada lays claim to a staggering one-fifth of the globe’s freshwater, making it a crucial player in preserving Earth’s vital ecosystems.

June 16, 2023

Kathryn Lawes: The Beloved Mother of Sing Sing Prison

Kathryn Lawes, affectionately referred to as the “Mother of Sing Sing,” resided within the notorious prison’s facility along with her children. As the wife of the warden, she was deeply cherished by the inmates, who reverently addressed her as “Mother.”

Kathryn Stanley Lawes, earned her title of “Mother” due to her compassionate work with inmates at Sing Sing Prison in Ossining, New York. She was married to Warden Lewis Lawes, who led the prison from 1920 to 1941 and implemented many progressive reforms. Kathryn’s role was unique for a warden’s wife. She was highly involved with the inmates, to the point of being beloved by them. She arranged for every man in the prison to receive a Christmas present, helped them write letters to their families, and even interceded on their behalf with the warden.

Kathryn was especially considerate of inmates on death row. She helped make their cells more comfortable, spent hours talking to them, and assisted their families. She often housed the families in her own home as the execution date approached, and arranged their final visits. Additionally, she ensured every prisoner received a decent burial if they had no immediate family.

Kathryn was born in Elmira, New York, in 1885. She married Lewis in 1905, and they started their family. Kathryn and Lewis lived within the prison facilities, first at Hart Island reformatory and then at Sing Sing, where she offered many inmates the first maternal attention they had ever experienced.

Kathryn’s death in 1937 at the age of 52 is shrouded in mystery as she fell off the Bear Mountain Bridge. She was conscious when discovered but succumbed to her injuries soon after arriving at Ossining Hospital.

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June 16, 2023

Belgium’s Royal Family at the Front: Leadership, Service, and Valor in WWI

During the First World War, King Albert I of Belgium, who was born in 1875 and reigned from 1909 to 1934, led the Belgian Army directly from the frontlines. Concurrently, his wife Elisabeth served as a nurse at the front, while their young son Leopold, just 12 years old, bravely joined the battle as a private soldier.

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June 16, 2023

The First Unassisted Aircraft Carrier Landing

The first successful landing on an aircraft carrier was performed without the aid of arresting wires for stopping the plane. Instead, crew members on deck grabbed ropes tied to the plane.

Edwin Dunning lands his Sopwith Pup on HMS Furious on August 2, 1917, as members of the deck crew rush to grab loops fitted to its wings and tailplane (Imperial War Museums)

The concept of the aircraft carrier was pioneered in 1917 by 25-year-old Edwin Dunning, who attempted the seemingly impossible task of landing an airplane on the deck of a moving vessel, the HMS Furious. This significant innovation in naval warfare came at a time when the British Admiralty had largely dismissed the potential of aircraft in combat, viewing them solely as tools for reconnaissance, while the vision of a flat-top aircraft carrier was prophesied by French inventor Clément Ader in his 1909 book, L’Aviation Militaire.

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June 15, 2023

Unexpected Ejection: A Sky-High Surprise

A man who was presented with a fighter jet flight as a gift from his colleagues unintentionally triggered the ejection seat and was thrust out of the cockpit. He lived to tell the tale, even though he admitted that he had never shown any prior desire with embarking on such a flight.

A 64-year-old defence company executive, who had no prior military aviation experience, accidentally ejected himself from a fighter jet while flying at over 500km/h after the force of the take-off caused him to “float” off his seat. The man managed to land safely in a field without serious injury, while the pilot was able to land the plane on the runway despite the loss of the cockpit canopy.

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June 15, 2023

Pizza Tops the List: A Study on Food Addiction Rankings

In 2016, research from the University of Michigan discovered that out of all foods, pizza was the most likely to create addictive behavior, with chocolate and potato chips coming in close behind. On the opposite end of the spectrum, cucumbers, carrots, and beans were found to be the least habit-forming foods, being even less addictive than water.

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