Inside the Tolstoy Family Reunion

filed under: video
5279647850001

While most of us spend family reunions eating potato salad and trying to recall the name of our third cousin once removed, Leo Tolstoy’s descendants listen to Chopin and have marathon War and Peace reading sessions.


February 5, 2017 – 1:00pm

What Happens to the Losing Team’s Championship Shirts?

Image credit: 
Reuters/Oswaldo Rivas/Landov

After a big game in any sport, fans and players are going to be clamoring for commemorative merchandise, often just minutes after the game ends. To meet this demand and cash in on the wallet-loosening “We’re #1” euphoria, manufacturers and retailers produce and stock two sets of T-shirts, hats and other merchandise, declaring each team the champ.

Based on strong sales after the Chicago Bears’ 2007 NFC Championship win, Sports Authority printed more than 15,000 shirts proclaiming a Bears Super Bowl victory well before the game even started. And then the Colts beat the Bears, 29-17.

World Vision

That’s a lot of misprinted shirts that can’t hit store shelves, and seem like fine candidates for the incinerator instead. And for a long time, that’s where they went, with all four major American pro sports leagues—MLB, NFL, NBA, and NHL—requiring the destruction of incorrect post-season apparel.

Fortunately, most of the leagues changed the way they do things and started donating the gear.

World Vision

For almost two decades, an international humanitarian aid group called World Vision collected the unwanted items at its distribution center in Pittsburgh, then shipped them overseas to people living in disaster areas and impoverished nations. After losing Super Bowl XLIII in 2009, Arizona Cardinals gear was sent to children and families living in extreme poverty in El Salvador. In 2010, after the New Orleans Saints defeated Indianapolis, the Colts gear printed up for Super Bowl XLIV was sent to earthquake-ravaged Haiti.

World Vision

In 2011, after Pittsburgh lost to the Green Bay Packers, the Steelers Super Bowl apparel went to Zambia, Armenia, Nicaragua, and Romania.

World Vision

World Vision

Beginning in 2015, after 19 years with World Vision, the NFL started working with Good360. After New England defeated Seattle in Super Bowl XLIX, Seahawks gear was distributed in Azerbaijan and Georgia.

It’s too early to say where this year’s Patriots or Falcons merchandise will end up. In 2016, Good360 chief marketing officer Shari Rudolph told mental_floss that details about the products available for donation will be sent to Good360 in about a week. They’ll notify their nonprofit partners and determine who needs what.

“Once they request the product, it is shipped to a domestic location and stored within their facilities until they have enough product (through Good360 and other sources) to fill a container,” Rudolph said. “Then it is shipped overseas and distributed to people in need.”

As for those hats that seem to materialize out of thin air: Apparel company New Era Caps has already made 288 lids for each team. They’ll be stored in bags and monitored before being brought out to the field so the winners can celebrate in style.

A prior version of this story appeared in 2009. Additional reporting by Jake Rossen.


February 5, 2017 – 12:30pm

Watch More Adventures in Replying to Spam with James Veitch

filed under: humor, video
Image credit: 
TED Archive

Last year, comedian James Veitch‘s TED Talk on replying to email scams went viral, as he recounted his adventures in toying with email scammers. Last week, TED released 10 more minutes of Veitch’s adventures. The audience reactions in this are priceless. My favorite exchange:

Spammer: “Don’t delay. I don’t much days here on earth.”

Veitch: “When are you leaving earth?”

Enjoy:

If that had you laughing and you haven’t seen the original video, you’re in for a treat.


February 5, 2017 – 12:00pm

This Week’s Best Amazon Deals You Can Still Get

Image credit: 
amazon / istock

As a recurring feature, we share some amazing Amazon deals we’ve turned up. These items were the ones that were the most popular with our readers this week, and they’re still available.

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, TOYS, AND MEDIA

SENSO Bluetooth Headphones, Best Wireless Sports Earphones w/ Mic IPX7 Waterproof HD Stereo Sweatproof Earbuds for Gym Running Workout 8 Hour Battery Noise Cancelling Headsets for $38.97 (list price $169.99)

Mpow Bluetooth FM Transmitter, MP3 Player & Hands-free Calling & Radio Car Kit with TF Card Slot for $19.99 (list price $24.99)

Amprobe BAT-200 Battery Tester for $6.26 (list price $7.95)

Anker PowerLine+ USB-C to USB 3.0 cable (6ft), High Durability, for USB Type-C Devices Including the new MacBook, ChromeBook Pixel, Nexus 5X, Nexus 6P, Nokia N1 Tablet, OnePlus 2 and More for $12.99 (list price $25.99)

OontZ Angle 3 PLUS by Cambridge SoundWorks – Bluetooth Speaker : Up to 30 HOUR Playtime; More Bass; Exceptional Sound; 10W+ POWER; Water Resistant, Perfect Portable Wireless Speaker [New] for $34.99 (list price $119.99)

TOTU Wireless Bluetooth Noise Cancelling Sports Headphones with Microphone, Black for $13.99 (list price $69.99)

Energizer Ultimate Lithium 9V Battery (1 Count) for $6.99 (list price $9.99)

2 Pcs Duracell CR1632 1632 Car Remote Batteries for $5.96 (list price $6.99)

Anker 3ft Nylon Braided USB Cable with Lightning Connector [Apple MFi Certified] for iPhone 7 / 7 Plus / 6s / 6s Plus / 6 / 6 Plus, iPad Pro Air 2 and More (Space Gray) for $9.99 (list price $29.99)

KevenAnna LED Flashlight Tactical Pen with Glass Breaker Survival Aircraft Aluminum Self Defense Pen with Writing for Men and Women for $15.99 (list price $44.97)

M-BETTER Universal Smartphones Car Air Vent Mount Holder Cradle Compatible with iPhone 7 7 Plus SE 6s 6 Plus 6 5s 5 4s 4 Samsung Galaxy S6 S5 S4 LG Nexus Sony Nokia and More (Black) for $10.99 (list price $29.99)

AUKEY Car Mount Air Vent Magnetic Phone Holder for iPhone 7, 6S, Plus, Samsung and Other Android, Windows Smartphones (Grey) for $7.99 (list price $12.99)

Mini 3400mAh Portable Charger, iXCC (3rd Generation) Lipstick-Sized Power Bank Compact Aluminum External Battery for iPhone, Galaxy and More – Black for $11.99 (list price $21.99)

Travel Inspira Universal All in One Worldwide Travel Power Plug Wall AC Adapter Charger with Dual USB Charging Ports for USA EU UK AUS for $9.99 (list price $29.99)

iPhone 7 6S 6 Screen Protector Glass, amFilm iPhone 7 Tempered Glass Screen Protector for Apple iPhone 7, iPhone 6S, iPhone 6 2016, 2015 (2-Pack) for $7.99 (list price $29.99)

Lens Cleaner – vius Premium Lens Cleaner Spray for Eyeglasses, Cameras, and Other Lenses – Gently Cleans Bacteria, Fingerprints, Dust, Oil (8oz) for $7.79 (list price $14.99)

ROXANT High Definition Mini Monocular Pocket Scope with molded grip, carrying case, neck strap and cleaning cloth. for $19.95 (list price $24.95)

Tesla Coil Lighters USB Rechargeable Windproof Arc Lighter for $18.99 

HDMI Cable 6ft – HDMI 2.0 (4K) Ready – 28AWG Braided Cord – High Speed 18Gbps – Gold Plated Connectors – Ethernet, Audio Return – Video 4K 2160p, HD 1080p, 3D – Xbox PlayStation PS3 PS4 PC Apple TV for $11.99 (list price $19.99)

Lexar JumpDrive P20 128GB USB 3.0 Flash Drive – LJDP20-128CRBNA for $49.99 (list price $72.53)

Hammer Anvil RFID Blocking Minimalist Genuine Leather Front Pocket Wallet Black for $10.99 (list price $35.00)

SanDisk Ultra Fit 32GB USB 3.0 Flash Drive (SDCZ43-032G-G46) for $11.95 (list price $18.49)

Panasonic BK-4MCCA12BA Eneloop AAA 2100 Cycle Ni-MH Pre-Charged Rechargeable Batteries, 12 Pack for $23.99 (list price $39.99)

Anker Wireless Charging Pad PowerPort Qi With 12W Wall Charger for Samsung Galaxy S6/S6 edge/S6 edge+/S7/S7 edge, Note 5/4, Nexus 4/5/6/7, LG G3 and Other Qi-Enabled Devices (Black) for $16.99 (list price $69.99)

Anker Multi-Angle Aluminum Stand for Tablets, e-readers and Smartphones, Compatible with iPhone, iPad, Samsung Galaxy / Tab, Google Nexus, HTC, LG, Nokia Lumia, OnePlus and More (Silver) for $8.99 (list price $39.99)

eSecure All-in-1 USB Card Reader for all Digital Memory Cards for $8.95 (list price $29.99)

Bluetooth Speakers,URPOWER Hi-Fi Portable Wireless Stereo Speaker with 7 LED Visual Modes and Build-in Microphone Support Hands-free Function, for iPhone 6s Plus,6s,Samsung,Tablets and More for $19.99 (list price $55.99)

Jackery 6000 mAh Portable Charger and Power Bank with Panasonic Battery Cells and Aluminum Shell – Orange for $15.99 (list price $32.99)

Bluetooth Headphones,Wireless Bluetooth V4.1 Sport Headphones,Noise Cancelling Earphones and Lightweight Sweatproof Headsets with Mic for Running for $32.99 (list price $89.99)

Mpow Universal Waterproof Case Floating Dry Bag Buggy Bag for Outdoor Sports with Ipx8 Certified for Devices under 6 Inches for $6.99 (list price $12.99)

LEGO STAR WARS TIE Striker 75154 for $54.00 (list price $69.99)

LEGO Star Wars Wookiee Gunship 75129 for $7.99 (list price $9.99)

Tendak Multiple USB Wall Charger with 40W 5-Port Quick Charge 3.0 & Type C Charging Station for HTC, Samsung Galaxy S7/S6/Edge, LG G5, iPhone, iPad for $21.99 (list price $49.99)

Trianium Armband For iPhone 7/6/6S PLUS, LG G5, Note 3/4/5 with case (fits with Otterbox Defender & Lifeproof case) ArmTrek Pro Exercise Running Pouch Key Holder Good For Hiking,Biking,Walking- Black for $9.50 (list price $20.24)

Mini 3400mAh Portable Charger, iXCC (3rd Generation) Lipstick-Sized Power Bank Compact Aluminum External Battery for iPhone, Galaxy and More – Black for $11.99 (list price $21.99)

Timex T129B RediSet Dual Alarm Clock with Dual USB Charging and Extreme Battery Backup – Black for $20.81 (list price $26.89)

1byone 10,000 mAh 2-Port Portable Charger, Compact External Battery Power Bank with LCD Display & Classic Pattern for Smartphones, Tablets & Bluetooth headset, White for $13.99 (list price $16.99)

Etekcity Lasergrip 774 Non-contact Digital Laser Infrared Thermometer -58℉~ 716℉ (-50℃~380℃), Yellow and Black for $13.88 (list price $35.00)

Bluetooth Headphones, TOTU Wireless V4.1 Stereo Noise Isolating Sports Sweatproof Headset with Mic for iPhone 7 Samsung Galaxy S7 and Android Phones [Upgraded Version], Black for $19.99 (list price $39.99)

Merope 20000mAh Power Bank for Smartphones – Black for $26.99 (list price $158.99)

Premium Full 1080p HD Hidden Camera Spy Pen BUNDLE 16GB SD Micro Card + USB card Reader + 7 INK FILLS + updated battery + USB Plug! – Record Executive Multifunction DVR. Perfect Gift – Easy to Use for $28.99 (list price $33.63)

Anker Phone Camera Lens Kit – 180° Fisheye, 0.65x Wide Angle, 10x Macro for iPhone 7/6s/6s Plus, Samsung S7/S6/edge, LG, Moto, HTC, Sony and more (not compatible with Dual Camera phones) for $9.99 (list price $19.99)

DKnight Big MagicBox Bluetooth 4.0 Portable Wireless speaker, 20W Output from Dual 10W Drivers , with Advanced Bass Enhancement Technology(Updated) for $49.99 (list price $159.99)

Invicta Men’s 17204 AVIATOR Stainless Steel Casual Watch for $89.66 (list price $895.00)

Marathon by Timex Women’s TW5K96800 Digital Mid-Size Orange/Silver-Tone Resin Strap Watch for $16.38 (list price $22.95)

KITCHEN

Sommelier Rose Wood Professional Corkscrew by True for $6.97 (list price $12.00)

The Original Donut Shop Keurig Single-Serve K-Cup Pods, Regular Medium Roast Coffee, 72 Count (6 Boxes of 12) for $27.99 (list price $34.99)

LIFT Certified BPA-Free Reusable Microwavable Meal Prep Containers with Lids, 28-Ounce, 7 Pack (Includes Ebook) for $10.97 (list price $14.99)

Hamilton Beach Electric Kettle, Cordless 1.8-Liter, Black (K6080A) for $15.00 (list price $22.99)

DRAGONN Stainless Steel Whisks, Silicone handle, Milk & Egg Beater Blender, Kitchen Utensils for Blending, Set of 3 for $9.99 (list price $14.95)

HemingWeigh 3/4″ Non-Slip Anti-Fatigue Comfort Mat, Ergonomically Engineered, Non-Toxic, Highest Quality Material, Waterproof, 20 x 39 inches (Black) for $39.95 (list price $99.99)

Utopia Kitchen Stainless Steel 6 Piece Knives Set (5 Knives plus and Acrylic Stand) for $24.99 (list price $99.99)

Bamboo Cooking Utensil-Set (6-Pieces) – Utopia Kitchen for $7.99 (list price $29.99)

Contigo Autoseal Fit Trainer, 20-Ounce, Dazzling Blue for $15.99 (list price $19.99)

Lodge L8GP3 Cast Iron Grill Pan, 10.25-inch for $25.78 (list price $28.00)

Contigo SnapSeal Byron Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel Travel Mug, 20oz, Monaco for $14.99 (list price $18.99)

Gotham Steel Tastic Bundle 7 Piece Cookware Set Titanium Ceramic Pan, Copper for $126.59 (list price $199.99)

Sun’s Tea 9 oz Strong Double Wall Manhattan Style old-fashioned Vodka/Scotch/Whiskey Glasses, Set of 2 for $16.99 (list price $21.99)

Instant Pot IP-DUO80 7-in-1 Programmable Electric Pressure Cooker, 8 Qt for $129.95 (list price $159.99)

LINKYO French Coffee Press – Stainless Steel Coffee Maker 34oz, 1L for $22.79 (list price $49.99)

Tovolo Sphere Ice Molds – Set of 2 for $6.47 (list price $11.00)

Friis 16-Ounce Coffee Vault, Stainless Steel for $18.77 (list price $24.99)

Spiralizer 5-Blade Vegetable Slicer, Strongest-and-Heaviest Duty, Best Veggie Pasta & Spaghetti Maker for Low Carb/Paleo/Gluten-Free Meals, With 3 Exclusive Recipe eBooks for $29.99 (list price $49.99)

Winco WB-4 4 Quart Wine Bucket for $10.50 (list price $12.81)

Norpro 335 Nutmeg Grater for $4.49 (list price $14.25)

Prepworks by Progressive Lettuce Keeper – 4.7 Quart for $12.96 (list price $25.00)

Glasslock 18-Piece Assorted Oven Safe Container Set for $39.32 (list price $44.99)

Chef’n PopTop Microwave Popcorn Popper (Cherry) for $18.04 (list price $19.99)

Norpro 3-Cup Stainless Steel Rotary Hand Crank Flour Sifter With 2 Wire Agitator for $5.82 (list price $9.78)

Drinking Straws, X-Chef Stainless Steel Bendy Straws Drinking 8 inch for Yeti Rtic, Ozark Trail Tumbler,Reusable Straws,FREE Cleaning Brushes for $5.99 (list price $10.99)

Etekcity Digital Multifunction Food Kitchen Scale,11lb 5kg, Silver, Stainless Steel (Batteries Included) for $10.88 (list price $39.99)

Pro Quality Nut Milk Bag – Big 12″X12″ Commercial Grade – Reusable Almond Milk Bag & All Purpose Food Strainer – Fine Mesh Nylon Cheesecloth & Cold Brew Coffee Filter – Free Recipes & Videos (1) for $8.99 (list price $24.95)

Stella Artois Chalice Glass, 33 cl for $5.21 (list price $10.99)

Greenco 6 Piece Refrigerator and Freezer Stackable Storage Organizer Bins with Handles, Clear for $31.34 (list price $39.99)

Oster DuraCeramic Panini Maker and Grill for $23.99 (list price $39.99)

Pyrex 6-Ounce Custard Cups, Set of 4 for $8.49 (list price $24.99)

Rachael Ray Cucina Stoneware 4-1/2-Inch Terra Cotta Garlic Roaster for $8.33 (list price $26.00)

BangTi Titanium Bold Toothpick+Waterproof Holder Pocket Travel Kit for $22.99 (list price $29.95)

Wabash Valley Farms Whirley-Pop Stovetop Popcorn Popper for $29.49 (list price $43.89)

BlenderBottle 3-Pack Water Bottle of 28oz, Blue/Black/Red, 28 ounce for $23.99 (list price $29.99)

Mr. Coffee K-Cup Brewing System with Reusable Grounds Filter, Silver, SC100 for $56.99 (list price $59.99)

1Easylife 18/8 Stainless Steel Measuring Spoons, Set of 6 for Measuring Dry and Liquid Ingredients for $9.99 (list price $19.99)

Anova Culinary PCB-120US-K1 Bluetooth Precision Cooker, 800 Watts, Black for $128.95 (list price $149.00)

StarPack Premium Silicone Kitchen Utensil Set (5 Piece) in Hygienic Solid Coating – Bonus 101 Cooking Tips (Cherry Red) for $19.95 (list price $27.24)

ThermoPro TP07 Remote Wireless Digital Kitchen Cooking Food Meat Thermometer with Timer for BBQ Smoker Grill Oven, 300 Feet Range for $30.59 (list price $45.99)

BLACK+DECKER RC506 6-Cup Cooked/3-Cup Uncooked Rice Cooker and Food Steamer, White for $14.59 (list price $19.99)

Brita Standard Replacement Water Filter for Pitchers, 3 Count for $13.39 (list price $14.88)

Magic Bullet Blender, Small, Silver, 11 Piece Set for $34.93 (list price $49.99)

Westinghouse WCO1WA Select Series Electric Can Opener, White – Amazon Exclusive for $4.92 (list price $14.99)

7 Inch Stainless Steel Chopper-Cleaver-Butcher Knife – Multipurpose Use for Home Kitchen or Restaurant (1-Pack) by Utopia Kitchen for $13.99 (list price $29.99)

BLACK+DECKER FP1600B 8-Cup Food Processor, Black for $23.99 (list price $29.95)

Instant Pot Silicone Mitts (Set of 2), Mini, Red for $3.94 (list price $14.99)

HOME

DropForge Leather Cream // All Natural & Handmade in the USA for $11.50 (list price $19.95)

SpaceSaver Premium Space Saver Vacuum Storage Bags, (40 x 30 Inch) 10 x JUMBO SIZE BAGS for $36.99 (list price $59.99)

GDEALER Digital Bathroom Scale 400lb/180kg Body Weight Bathroom Scale, Elegant Black 6mm Tempered Glass, Step-On Technology, High Precision, Extra Large Lighted Display for $16.99 (list price $35.99)

Utopia Towels Luxury Bath Sheet – White with Navy Blue Stripes (30 x 56 Inch) Ringspun Cotton Bath Towel for Maximum Softness and Absorbency for $10.99 (list price $19.99)

Shark Steam Pocket Mop (S3501) for $52.75 (list price $79.99)

ViscoSoft Hypoallergenic Memory Foam Standard Arctic Gel Contour Pillow with Removable Cover for $24.99 (list price $79.99)

Bounce Fabric Softener Dryer Sheets Fresh Linen 80 count, (Pack of 3) for $7.41 after on-screen coupon (list price $13.92)

LINENSPA Premium Mattress Protector – 100% Waterproof – Hypoallergenic – 10 Year Warranty – Vinyl Free – Twin / White for $13.99 (list price $69.99)

URPOWER 2nd Version Essential Oil Diffuser,100ml Aroma Essential Oil Cool Mist Humidifier with Adjustable Mist Mode,Waterless Auto Shut-off and 7 Color LED Lights Changing for Home Office Baby for $19.95 (list price $69.99)

WBM Himalayan Glow Natural Style Hand Carved Natural Crystal Himalayan 1 Hole Tealight Candle Holder, 2-Pack for $12.57 (list price $15.95)

Nestl Bedding Microfiber Duvet Cover 3 Piece Queen (White) for $25.99 (list price $59.99)

Whitmor Extra-Wide Portable Clothes Storage Closet / Wardrobe, White for $27.54 (list price $53.18)

Swiffer 360 Dusters Extender Kit, Extends up to three feet for $12.42 (list price $21.60)

Weiman High-Traffic Hardwood Floor Polish & Restorer – Natural Shine, Removes Scratches, Leaves Protective Layer – 27 fl. oz. for $7.35 (list price $10.99)

AmazonBasics Velvet Suit Hangers – 50 Pack, Black for $17.99 (list price $23.99)

Bath Dreams Luxury Bamboo Bathtub Caddy Tray with Extending Sides for $27.99 (list price $80.99)

Dyson V6 Motor Head Cord-free Vacuum for $289.99 (list price $399.99)

Fancii LED Illuminated 20X Jewelers Loupe Magnifier – Premium Glass Magnifying Eye Loop Stand Made With Aircraft Grade Aluminum – Best for Jewelry, Diamonds, Coins, Miniatures, Engravings, Markings for $17.99 (list price $20.99)

Hagerty 10120 Silversmiths’ Silver Polish, 12 Ounces for $12.19 (list price $15.99)

Large Capacity Premium Quality Plastic Makeup Palette Organizer for $24.97 (list price $29.99)

Holmes Twin Window Fan with Comfort Control Thermostat for $41.95 (list price $59.99)

Ashley Furniture Signature Design Mestler Rectangular Cocktail Table, Rustic Brown for $158.26 (list price $235.00)

Jeronic 11-Inch Plastic Folding Step Stool, Black for $9.99 (list price $16.99)

Vicks Personal Steam Inhaler for $27.42 (list price $30.63)

Big Joe Milano Chair, Stretch Limo Black for $38.98 (list price $59.99)

Gorilla Grip 5×7-Feet Non-Slip Area Rug Pad for Hard Floors for $15.39 (list price $26.79)

Cougar Ultimate 2 Handle Log Carrier – Extra Heavy Duty, Standing, Waterproof Lined Firewood Tote, Bag Best For Carrying Wood (Forest Green) for $25.95 (list price $49.99)

Vornado MVH Whole Room Vortex Heater, Black for $56.99 (list price $79.99)

Honey-Can-Do HMP-01620 Square Wicker Hamper, Clothing Organizer, Bamboo for $15.22 (list price $41.99)

Evenflo Position and Lock Tall Pressure Mount Wood Gate for $16.19 (list price $29.99)

Cosco Dorel Industries Lightweight Folding Steel Step Stool, Two Step for $19.88 (list price $29.99)

Yankee Candle Company Balsam & Cedar Large Jar Candle for $21.44 (list price $27.99)

Casual Home 324-54 Montego 5-Tier Bookcase, Walnut for $69.34 (list price $103.99)

Yankee Candle Company Pink Sands Large Jar Candle for $21.00 (list price $27.99)

Gorilla Grip Non-Slip Bath Pillow with Three Panel for $20.99 (list price $39.99)

HEALTH AND BEAUTY

Gillette Fusion Manual Men’s Razor Blade Refills, 12 Count for $30.88 after on-screen coupon (list price $47.99)

O’Keeffe’s Original Lip Repair Stick for $3.47 (list price $5.99)

Deluxe Detangling Hair Brush-2 Pack Value Set-Wet and Wild Brush,Professional Detangler for Women,Men,Kids,Purple and Pink for $10.99 (list price $39.98)

Nerdwax Stop Slipping Glasses as Seen on Shark Tank for $10.99 (list price $12.99)

CeraVe Moisturizing Lotion, 12 oz. for $11.15 (list price $13.99)

IBEET Blackhead Remover Kit,Comedone Extractor Tool,Anti-microbial Double-side 4 Pieces,Treatment for Blemish, Whitehead Popping, Zit Removing for Risk Free Nose (Golden) for $5.99 (list price $23.36)

NIVEA Men Sensitive Face Wash 5 Fluid Ounce for $4.45 (list price $5.99)

Neutrogena Deep Clean Gentle Scrub, 4.2 Fl. Oz for $4.19 (list price $10.00)

Agadir Argan Oil Treatment, 4-Ounce for $15.94 (list price $40.00)

Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Moisturizer With Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen, 1 Fl. Oz for $16.98 (list price $19.99)

O’Keeffe’s Working Hands Hand Cream, 3 oz., Tube for $6.47 (list price $10.00)

Seventh Generation Thick & Strong Free and Clear Baby Wipes Refill Pack, 384 Count (Packaging May Vary) for $13.59 (list price $14.99)

Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream, 16 Ounce for $13.35 (list price $15.99)

Argan Oil Shampoo, Sulfate Free, 8 oz. – With Argan, Jojoba, Avocado, Almond, Peach Kernel, Camellia Seed, and Keratin – 100% Safe for Color Treated Hair – For Men, Women, and Teens – All Hair Types – Most Beneficial Haircare Product Available for $14.95 (list price $25.00)

Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Body Wash, 18 Fl. Oz for $5.89 (list price $8.00)

Dove Men+Care Body Wash, Extra Fresh 23.5 oz for $5.89 (list price $9.19)

Oral-B Pro 5000 SmartSeries Power Rechargeable Electric Toothbrush with Bluetooth Connectivity Powered by Braun for $89.78 (list price $159.99)

Sensodyne Pronamel Gentle Whitening Toothpaste, 4 Ounce Tubes (pack of 3) for $18.90 (list price $25.47)

Degree Men Dry Protection 48 Hour Antiperspirant, Cool Rush 2.7 oz (Pack of 6) for $14.82 (list price $21.54)

Cremo Original Shave Cream, Astonishingly Superior Shaving Cream for Men, 6 Fluid Ounce for $4.99 (list price $9.99)

Reach Mint Waxed Dental Floss, 55 Yards (Pack of 6) for $6.06 (list price $8.40)

Conair Velvet Touch Paddle Hair Brush for $5.99 (list price $6.99)

Philips Sonicare Essence Sonic Electric Rechargeable Toothbrush, Pink for $19.95 (list price $49.99)

Pink Slant Tweezers | TweezerGuru Professional Stainless Steel Slant Tip Tweezer – The Best Precision Eyebrow Tweezers For Your Daily Beauty Routine! for $9.97 (list price $12.99)

BS-MALL Makeup Brushes Premium Makeup Brush Set Synthetic Kabuki Cosmetics Foundation Blending Blush Eyeliner Face Powder Brush Makeup Brush Kit (10pcs, Golden Black) for $9.99 (list price $39.99)

Colgate Wisp Portable Mini-Brush Max Fresh, Peppermint, 24 Count for $3.99 (list price $7.99)

Gillette Mach3 Men’s Razor Blade Refills, 10 Count (packaging may vary) for $19.97 (list price $28.99)

Panasonic ER-GN30-K Nose Ear & Hair Trimmer, Wet/Dry for $14.99 (list price $19.99)

Beard Brush for Men – With Wild Boar Bristles for Easy Grooming – Facial Care Hair Comb for Beards & Mustache Conditioning, Styling & Maintenance – Distributes Products & Natural Wax for $13.47 (list price $29.97)

Conair 1875 Watt Hair Dryer; White for $9.99 (list price $16.99)

xtava Satin Wave 5-in-1 Curling Iron and Wand Set with Temperature Control – Professional Salon-Grade Tool with Interchangeable Ceramic Tourmaline Barrels, Heat Protectant Glove and Thermal Travel Bag for $36.99 (list price $75.00)

HSI PROFESSIONAL Thermal Protector 450 with Argan oil for Flat Iron, infused with vitamins a, b, c, & d, sulfate free, Made in USA, 8oz, (Packaging May Vary) for $14.95 (list price $19.99)

OFFICE, SCHOOL, AND CRAFTS

Cute Panda Mini Desktop Stapler&Staple Hand Stapler Office/Home Stapler(62.5CM) for $4.29 (list price $6.99)

Sharpie Permanent Markers, Ultra Fine Point, Assorted Colors, 24-Count for $10.51 (list price $12.78)

Paper Mate InkJoy Gel Pens, Fine Point, Assorted Colors, 8 Count for $8.50 (list price $15.47)

GelBrights 100 Gel Pens – Great For Adult Kids Coloring Book – Scrapbook for $12.99 (list price $24.99)

Sharpie Retractable Permanent Markers, Ultra Fine Point, Assorted Colors, 8-Count for $9.33 (list price $10.98)

Avery Durable View Binder, 1″ Slant Rings, 220-Sheet Capacity, DuraHinge, White (17012) for $3.50 (list price $5.98)

Avery Durable View Binder, 3″ Slant Rings, 600-Sheet Capacity, DuraHinge, White (17042) for $5.39 (list price $8.46)

Custom Self Inking Rubber Stamp – 3 Lines (42A1539) for $8.70 (list price $19.99)

Scotch Stretch Wrap, 5 Inches x 725 Feet (8033) for $7.90 (list price $9.99)

Canon MG6821 Wireless All-In-One Printer with Scanner and Copier: Mobile and Tablet Printing with Airprint and Google Cloud Print compatible for $49.99 (list price $63.99)

Fiskars 8 Inch The Original Orange-Handled Scissors for $8.97 (list price $11.99)

Mr. Sketch Scented Twistable Gel Crayons, Assorted Colors, 12-Count for $11.34 (list price $12.99)

Crayola Colored Pencils, 50 Count, Vibrant Colors, Pre-sharpened, Art Tools, great for Adult Coloring for $8.15 (list price $12.89)

Hammermill Paper, Color Copy Digital, 32lb, 19 x 13, 100 Bright, 500 Sheets / 1 Ream, (106128R), Made In The USA for $31.52 (list price $41.32)

PaperPro inPOWER+ 28 Reduced Effort Metal Desktop Stapler with Built-in Staple Remover, 28 Sheets, Silver/Red (1117) for $14.70 (list price $19.60)

Chalkola Chalk Markers & Metallic Colors – Pack of 16 chalk pens – For Chalkboard, Whiteboard, Window, Labels, Bistro – 6mm Bullet Tip with 8 gram ink for $18.90 (list price $23.77)

Marigold 12″ Professional Titanium Rotary Paper Trimmer Cutter (TR410) for $16.00 (list price $22.00)

Water Brush Pen for Watercolor Painting & Lettering – Assorted Durable Nylon Tips (Pack of 3 Brushes – Fine/Medium/Broad) for $9.99 (list price $22.50)

EXPO Low-Odor Dry Erase Markers, Chisel Tip, Assorted Colors, 12-Count for $9.99 (list price $17.99)

Prang Artist Charcoal Pencils, Paper Wrapped, Soft, Box of 12, Black (60200) for $8.00 (list price $14.70)

Strathmore Series 400 Sketch Pads 9 in. x 12 in. – pad of 100 for $8.72 (list price $12.89)

Five Star Spiral Notebooks, 1 Subject, 100 College Ruled Sheets, Assorted Basic Colors, 6-Pack (38052) for $18.49 (list price $30.14)

Electric Pencil Sharpener – Battery Operated (No Cord) – Ideal For No. 2 and Colored Pencils (Drawing, Coloring) – Small and Durable – Kid Friendly – Artist , Students , and Professionals for $18.99 (list price $34.99)

Brother HL-L2380DW Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer, Amazon Dash Replenishment Enabled for $129.99 (list price $145.99)

Tanmit 100 Coloring Gel Pens Set for Adults Coloring Books- Gel Colored Pen for Drawing, Writing & Unique Colors Including Glitter, Neon, Standard, Symhony, Milky & Metallic for $17.95 (list price $35.00)

OUTDOORS, GARDEN, AND SPORTS

Stanley FL5W10 Waterproof LED Rechargeable Spotlight for $32.77 (list price $49.99)

Gonicc 8″ Professional SK-5 Steel Blade Sharp Anvil Pruning Shears (GPPS-1001) for $13.95 (list price $39.99)

Mr Bar B Q 05012X Apple Wood Chips for $6.49 (list price $9.14)

No-Leaks Pressure Washer Garden Hose Quick Connect Set , 6 Male Connects + 2 Female Connects for $12.35 (list price $19.99)

J5 Tactical V1-Pro Flashlight The Original 300 Lumen Ultra Bright, LED 3 Mode Flashlight, Black for $14.95 (list price $29.95)

Etekcity 2 Pack Portable Outdoor LED Camping Lantern with 6 AA Batteries (Black, Collapsible) for $12.99 (list price $39.99)

RTIC Cooler (RTIC 20 Tan) for $101.99 (list price $124.99)

Premium Quality Stainless Steel Compost Bin 1.3 Gallon, Includes Charcoal Filter for $17.99 (list price $49.99)

GDEALER Solar String Lights 72feet 200 LED 8 Modes Solar Powered Waterproof Starry Fairy Outdoor String Lights holiday Decoration Lights for Patio Gardens Homes Landscape Wedding Party for $10.99 (list price $39.99)

Homitt Metal 2 Way Y Hose Connector, Garden Hose Splitter with Comfortable Rubberized Grip for Easy Garden Life for $8.49 (list price $29.99)

Outmate 6 pcs Aluminum D-ring Locking Carabiner Light but Strong for $7.99 (list price $11.99)

BYB 800 Lumens Rechargeable T6 LED Flashlight, Adjustable Focus Tactical Flashlight with AC Charger and 26650 Battery, Bonus Solar Power Keychain Flashlight Included for $14.99 (list price $39.99)

Camp Solutions Envelope Sleeping Bag with Compression Sack – Fits Adults up to 6’5. Ripstop Waterproof Shell & High-Loft Fill Construction for $33.79 (list price $69.99)

Hausbell 7W Ultra Bright Mini LED Flashlight Tactical Flashlight (2 Pack) for $8.99 (list price $10.99)

SmartCat Ultimate Scratching Post for $35.99 (list price $49.99)

I Go 89-Piece First Aid Kit, Red for $10.19 (list price $30.99)

Aerobie Pro Ring – Single Unit (Colors May Vary) for $8.59 (list price $9.99)

Oster Fresh Sips Less Stress Pet Fountain BPA Free with Double Filtration, 60 fl oz for $31.72 (list price $39.99)

Arm & Hammer Clump & Seal Litter, Multi-Cat, 28 Lbs for $12.29 (list price $25.99)

Sabre Key Case Pepper Spray with Quick Release Key Ring, Black, 25 Bursts 10-Foot (3 Metre) Range for $7.90 (list price $11.99)

Camelbak Eddy Glass .7-Liter Water Bottle, Charcoal for $14.39 (list price $25.00)

Fiskars X7 Hatchet 14 Inch for $24.97 (list price $29.99)

Portland Design Works Shiny Object CO2 Inflator with 16G Cartridge for $23.04 (list price $30.00)

Hothands Game Day 24 Pair Hand Wamers & 8 Pair Toe Warmers for $15.07 (list price $27.99)

URPOWER Solar Lights 9 LED Outdoor Solar Powered Wireless Motion Sensor Waterproof Security Light Battery Operated Wall Light with 3 Modes for Patio Deck Yard Garden Driveway Outside Wall (2) for $12.99 (list price $34.99)

Arm & Hammer Clump & Seal Litter, Multi-Cat, 28 Lbs for $12.29 (list price $25.99)

Camelbak Products Chute Water Bottle, Charcoal, 1-Liter for $10.99 (list price $14.00)

ELECTRONICS

Dell KM117 Wireless Keyboard & Mouse for $18.49 (list price $24.99)

Excelvan BM-800 Condenser Microphone Sound Recording Dynamic + Mic Shock Mount, Ideal for Radio Broadcasting, Voice-Over and Recording Studio for $24.99 (list price $41.99)

Microsoft Surface Pro 4 (512 GB, 16 GB RAM, Intel Core i7e) for $1,826.99 (list price $2,199.00)

EZVIZ Mini HD 720p WiFi Home Security Camera with Motion Detection, 130° View, Night Vision, 16GB MicroSD, Works with Alexa using IFTTT for $64.99 (list price $89.99)

Bestten Charging Center-Wall Mount Surge Protector with 4.2A Four (4) USB Charging Ports, 3 AC Outlets and 2 Slide Out Phone Holders, ETL Certified for $19.99 (list price $65.99)

Cymas Full HD 1080P 2.0 Inch Sports Action Camera with 16 Accessories for $52.99 (list price $69.99)

NETGEAR N300 Wi-Fi Range Extender, Essentials Edition (EX2700) for $29.79 (list price $39.99)

TiVo BOLT 500 GB DVR: Digital Video Recorder and Streaming Media Player – 4K UHD Compatible – Works with Digital Cable or HD Antenna for $155.06 (list price $199.99)

Sabrent 4-Port USB 3.0 Hub with Individual Power Switches and LEDs (HB-UM43) for $9.99 (list price $29.99)

Sabrent SuperSpeed 2-Slot USB 3.0 Flash Memory Card Reader for Windows, Mac, Linux, and Certain Android Systems – Supports SD , SDHC , SDXC , MMC / MicroSD , T-Flash [Black] (CR-UMSS) for $6.49 (list price $16.99)

Wolverine F2D Mighty 20MP 7-in-1 Film to Digital Converter for $129.69 (list price $139.99)

BESTEK 8-Outlet Surge Protector Power Strip with 5.9 Feet Cord and 4 USB charging ports for $24.99 (list price $40.99)

1byone 50 Miles Amplified HDTV Antenna with Amplifier Booster USB Power Supply To Boost Signal and 20foot Coaxial Cable, Shiny Antenna for $29.99 (list price $46.99)

Sennheiser HD 202 II Professional Headphones (Black) for $24.50 (list price $35.00)

Crenova XPE460 LED Video Projector Home Projector with Free HDMI Support 1080P for Home Cinema Theater TV Laptop Game SD iPad iPhone Android Smartphone-White for $89.98 (list price $199.98)

NETGEAR AC1750 Smart WiFi Router  Core 800MHz Processor – Router Only (R6400-100NAS) for $109.49 (list price $129.99)

Acer R240HY bidx 23.8-Inch IPS HDMI DVI VGA (1920 x 1080) Widescreen Monitor for $129.99 (list price $179.99)

TOOLS

URPOWER Tactical Flashlight Super Bright CREE LED Flashlight Zoomable Tactical Flashlight Rainproof Lighting Lamp Torch -with Rechargeable 18650 2800mAh Battery -For Cycling Hiking Camping Emergency for $12.99 (list price $39.99)

Rain-X 5079282-2 Latitude Water Repellency Wiper Blade, 28″ (Pack of 1) for $16.47 (list price $17.49)

Streamlight 66118 Stylus Pro LED Pen Light with Holster, Black for $17.78 (list price $21.11)

Damaged Screw Extractor and Remove Set by Aisxle,Easily Remove Stripped or Damaged Screws. Made From H.S.S. 4341#, the Hardness Is 62-63hrc,Set of 4 Stripped Screw Removers for $11.88 (list price $39.99)

Stanley 15-106A Coping Saw for $5.99 (list price $9.60)

24 Piece Premium Titanium Lock Tool Set with Transparent Pad Lock for $29.99 (list price $59.99)

Stanley 68-010 Multibit Ratcheting Screwdriver with 10 Assorted Bits for $9.64 (list price $26.84)

2 PCS of IPOW Car Safety Antiskid Hammer Seatbelt Cutter Emergency Class/Window Punch Breaker Auto Rescue Disaster Escape Life-Saving Hammer Tool,Small for $10.89 (list price $13.99)

Century 7 Day Heavy Duty Digital Programmable Timer – Dual Outlet for $12.99 (list price $18.99)

Hydroluxe Full-Chrome 24 Function Ultra-Luxury 3-way 2 in 1 Shower-Head /Handheld-Shower Combo for $24.99 (list price $43.18)

Dr.Meter Moisture Meter, Soil Water Monitor, Hydrometer for Gardening, Farming, Indoor/Outdoor Use for $8.99 (list price $20.00)

Vastar 3 Pack 23.6 Inch Drain Snakes Hair Clog Remover Cleaning Tool for $6.99 (list price $15.99)

Command Picture Hanging Strips Value Pack, Large, White, 12-Strips (17206-12ES) for $7.70 (list price $12.30)

LED Closet Light, LightBiz 20-LED Wireless Motion Sensor Night Light Under Cabinet Lighting (Battery Operated) for $14.99 (list price $29.99)

DEWALT DCF885C1 20V Max 1/4″ Impact Driver Kit, for $149.00 (list price $169.00)

Kidde KL-2S Two-Story Fire Escape Ladder with Anti-Slip Rungs, 13-Foot for $30.79 (list price $65.99)

PORTER-CABLE PC1500HG 1500-Watt Heat Gun for $29.99 (list price $39.97)

Stanley 85-753 22 Piece Long Arm SAE & Metric Hex Key Set for $9.99 (list price $15.99)

Black & Decker 15557 Drill Bit Set, 10-Piece for $4.91 (list price $7.59)

Stanley 10-778 Fatmax Retractable Knife for $8.74 (list price $16.10)

Black & Decker BDEJS300C Jig Saw, 4.5-Amp for $27.99 (list price $56.04)

TR Industrial TR88302 Multi-Purpose Cable Ties (100 Piece), 8″, Black for $6.20 (list price $9.99)

Danslesbls Super Magnetic Wristband, Keeps Screws, Nails and Tools Handy While Working for $9.99 (list price $18.99)

Refun E6 High Powered Tactical Led Flashlight, Ultra Bright LED Handheld Flashlight, Portable Outdoor Water Resistant Torch with Adjustable Focus and 5 Light Modes for Camping Hiking etc for $9.99 (list price $58.80)


February 5, 2017 – 11:00am

7 Famous Landmarks in London

Most people have heard of London but many haven’t been to the city to explore the sights such as the Houses of Parliament, parks, markets, Baker Street and Madame Tussauds, but what are the most famous landmarks and why do they attract so many visitors? The Palace of Westminster lies on the north bank of the River Thames. It is more commonly known as the House of Commons, but it is more than that as it also includes the House of Lords – the two houses of the Parliament of the United Kingdom. The chairs in the House of Commons

The post 7 Famous Landmarks in London appeared first on Factual Facts.

Win the Chance to Wear Dorothy Parker’s Mink Coat

Image credit: 
iStock

Many old pictures of Dorothy Parker feature the celebrated writer and wit clad in a luxurious mink coat. Parker—who was a part-time resident of rural Bucks County, Pennsylvania—purchased the coat from a Philadelphia furrier sometime around World War II. The glamorous garment hung down to Parker’s shins, and her cursive signature was even embroidered into its lining.

After Parker died, the coat was sold; currently, it belongs to a private collector. To mark the upcoming 50th anniversary of Parker’s June 7, 1967 death, Kevin Fitzpatrick—president of the Dorothy Parker Society, a group that promotes the late author’s work and legacy—has launched a Kickstarter campaign to purchase Parker’s mink and have it professionally cleaned and stored. He hopes to bring the coat back to Manhattan’s Algonquin Hotel (where Parker was a member of the famed Algonquin Round Table) on special occasions, and to use it to raise money for charity.

Fitzpatrick is offering the ultimate prize to donors who contribute $50 or more: the chance to actually wear Parker’s coat.

“If you’re in the Jane Austen Society, and they had anything Jane wore, do you think anyone would let you touch it, much less wear it around New York? I don’t think so,” Fitzpatrick jokes in a Kickstarter video.

All photos courtesy of Kevin Fitzpatrick/Kickstarter

Pledge $50, and you can try on the mink and take selfies in front of the Algonquin’s storied Round Table. $100 or more gets you a professional photo shoot of yourself wearing the coat in front of the Algonquin Hotel. And Parker fans who donate $250, $500, or $1000 can don the mink while enjoying a night out on the town. (The more you pay, the longer you get to wear it.)

The Kickstarter campaign has already met its goal, but you can still contribute (and score the chance to wear Parker’s mink) until March 1, 2017.


February 5, 2017 – 6:00am

On This Day in 1971, Apollo 14 Golfers Arrived on the Moon

filed under: NASA, space, video
Image credit: 
NASA (Public Domain)

The fourth moonwalk in human history occurred on February 5, 1971. The Apollo 14 mission was a big one, in part because the disasters suffered by Apollo 13’s crew had shaken (and then reaffirmed) public confidence in the space program. Apollo 14 was a do-over of Apollo 13, but with a different crew. Commander Alan Shepard—who had been the first American in space—was on the crew. By 1971, he was the oldest US astronaut to visit space, aged 47.

When Apollo 14 reached the moon, it had trouble landing at the Fra Mauro highlands. The astronauts ran into trouble docking the Kitty Hawk command module with the Antares lunar lander. When that finally worked (after firing the thrusters from each craft to force them together), the Antares lander’s radar had trouble calculating distance to the moon upon descent. The glitches were solved just in time to make a landing. When he arrived on the lunar surface, Shepard said, “It’s been a long way, but we’re here.”

The next day, toward the end of the second EVA (extravehicular activity) and history’s fifth-ever moonwalk, Shepard proceeded to try something unprecedented: lunar golf. Shepard had smuggled a makeshift six-iron in a sock, along with two golf balls. The club was a little odd, as it was a six-iron head modified by a Houston golf pro to screw onto a rock collecting implement provided by NASA. Shepard was forced to golf one-handed due to his bulky EVA suit. His first shot was awful (“I’m gonna try a little sand-trap shot here…Got more dirt than ball!”), but the second traveled an estimated 200 yards (despite Shepard’s excited statement “miles and miles and miles!”). The whole thing happened on live TV, complete with banter from Houston on his first “slice”—here’s a clip:

For more on what Apollo 14 achieved, check out the NASA documentary Apollo 14: Mission to Fra Mauro here:

For more on the golf club (and the smuggling sock), let this Atlas Obscura article by your guide.


February 5, 2017 – 4:00am

On The Fast Track: 25 Ways to Learn a New Skill Quickly

Whether you plan to become fluent in a new language or finally tackle that home improvement project, picking up a new skill can seem overwhelming—especially if you have a time crunch. For the infographic below, “custom writing service” WriteMyPapers.org (note that here at mental_floss, we support writing your own papers!) compiled 25 helpful tips to save you time and frustration when learning something new.


February 5, 2017 – 12:00am

Can You Solve the Airplane Fuel Riddle?

filed under: math, puzzle, video
Image credit: 
Getty Images

Here’s a fun riddle: Professor Fukanō plans to circumnavigate the world in his new airplane. But the plane’s fuel tank doesn’t hold enough for the trip—in fact, it holds only enough for half the trip. But with the help of two identical support planes (which can refuel him in mid-air) piloted by his assistants Fugori and Orokana, the professor thinks he can make it in one trip. But since all three planes have the same problem of limited fuel, how can they work together to achieve the professor’s goal without anyone running out of fuel?

This TED-Ed riddle is very much like a Popular Mechanics riddle written in 2016. It’s a tricky one, and it helps to have a piece of paper handy.

It’s explained in the video below (along with a “pause now” bit so you can solve it yourself). If you’re not a fan of video, here are the starting rules:

1. The professor’s plane must make a single continuous trip around the world without landing or turning around.

2. Each plane can travel exactly 1 degree of longitude in 1 minute for every kiloliter of fuel. Each can hold a maximum of 180 kiloliters of fuel.

3. Any plane can refuel any of the others in mid-air by meeting at the same point and instantly transferring any amount of fuel.

4. Fugori and Orokana’s planes can turn around instantaneously without burning fuel.

5. Only one airport is available for any of the planes to land, take off, or refuel.

6. All three planes must survive the experiment, and none may run of fuel in mid-air.

As the video explains, the airport mentioned in point #5 happens to be on the equator.

Here’s the video:

For a bit more from TED-Ed on this riddle, check out this lesson page. If you want to read a solution to a very similar puzzle without watching the video above, try this Math is Fun puzzle page.


February 4, 2017 – 8:00pm

The Global Biodiversity Atlas Reveals the Secrets of Soil

filed under: biology
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There’s a lot of life under our feet—and now we can appreciate that more than ever. After three years, a multi-disciplinary team of 121 scientists put together the new Global Soil Biodiversity Atlas. It showcases the bacterial, fungal, and animal life that together comprise an estimated quarter of all global biodiversity.


February 4, 2017 – 1:00pm