ODDS, ENDS & INSPIRATION

z Computer guru Jef Raskin once said: “Imagine if every Thursday your shoes exploded if you tied them the usual way. This happens to us all the time with computers, and nobody thinks of complaining.”

z The Secret Service is well-known today as the protector of the US president, so you might be surprised to learn that it was originally established to fight counterfeit currency.

z The world record for the most published works by a single author is held by L. Ron Hubbard (who also founded the Church of Scientology). His first work was published in February 1934, and his final work – number 1084 – was published in March 2006.

z Doubtless you’ve heard of the Taj Mahal in India, but did you know that there is a tourist attraction in America that is so grand it is popularly known as the Taj Mahal of the West? In 1968, a group of Hare Krishnas founded the New Vrindaban Community near Wheeling, West Virginia. Though they began on 100 acres with no electricity or running water, the community now covers more than 1200 acres and features Prabhupada’s Palace of Gold, an ornate edifice of gold, marble and hand-carved teakwood. The award-winning rose garden alone is said to be worth a trip.

z Those who study such things claim that in the wild, animals don’t die of old age.

z The US town of Key Largo, Florida, did not exist before the 1948 film of that name starring Humphrey Bogart made it famous.

z “To fall in love is to create a religion that has a fallible god.” – Jorge Luis Borges

Thought for the Day: NOW HERE’S A TIP

z Sunburn relief: Take two nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories right away (aspirin, ibuprofen) and soak a cloth in cold milk. Drape over the burn until it warms to room temperature. Repeat if necessary and apply a light moisturiser. z “When purchasing clothes for a loved one in a care facility, look for garments that are comfortable and stylish, but double-check that they do not require any special care, like ironing or dry cleaning. Also, be sure they are labelled clearly with the person’s name.” – contributed by C.G. z If you want your chocolate chip biscuits to really pop, sprinkle lightly with course sea salt before baking. They do not come out tasting salty. Rather, the salt enhances the sweetness and makes the whole thing extra delicious.

z “When you shop for shoes, go in the evening. Feet swell and expand throughout the day, so if you buy shoes in the morning, the fit might not feel too good later in the day.” – A.T.

z “I make my grilled cheese sandwiches with mayonnaise instead of butter. I know it sounds gross, but it is so good. The oil and egg in the mayo flavour and crisp the bread without leaving it too greasy.” – S.O.

z To ease the ache of a “brain freeze” after eating or drinking something really cold, simply cup your hands over your mouth and nose. Blow out hot air, and it recirculates to warm your palate in seconds. Works like a charm. z Send your tips to now-heresa-tip@dubbophotonews.com.au