WTF • Fun • Fact    ( /dʌb(ə)lˌju/  /ti/   /ef/ • /fʌn/ • /fækt/ )

     1. noun  A random, interesting, and overall fun fact that makes you scratch your head and think what the...

WTF Fun Fact 13385 – Flag Protocol on Memorial Day

There is a special flag protocol on Memorial Day in the United States. The country follows a tradition where it raises the flag to the top of the staff in the morning. Then, the country solemnly lowers it to half-staff until noon. After noon, the country raises the flag back to full staff.

Why is there a special flag protocol on Memorial Day?

The practice of flying the flag at half-staff is a gesture of remembrance and honor for the soldiers who gave their lives in service to their country. Lowering the flag to half-staff is a solemn and poignant way to pay tribute to their memory. It serves as a visible reminder of their sacrifice.

People have long associated the half-staff position with mourning, and it reflects a sense of national tribute on Memorial Day.

During this time, from sunrise until noon, the nation collectively pauses to remember and reflect on the sacrifices of fallen service members.

Re-raising the flag at noon

While you may not have noticed, Americans customarily raise the flag back to full staff at noon on Memorial Day. This signifies the transition from a period of remembrance for the deceased to a focus on honoring the living who continue to safeguard the nation’s freedom. It represents the resilience, courage, and dedication of the men and women who serve in the armed forces.

Raising the flag to full staff after noon, it is a symbolic way of recognizing the ongoing commitment and sacrifices made by active-duty military personnel, veterans, and all those who contribute to the defense of the country. It serves as a reminder that the spirit of those who have fallen lives on through the determination and dedication of those who continue to serve.

Flag decorum

It is important to note that the practice of lowering the flag to half-staff is not exclusive to Memorial Day. People also observe it on other occasions of national mourning. For example, when they remember fallen public officials, national tragedies, or the death of a prominent figure.

However, on Memorial Day, the symbolism takes on added significance. The as nation comes together to honor the fallen heroes who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “Flying the American Flag at Half Staff” — U.S. Department of Veteran’s Affairs

WTF Fun Fact 13384 – Centralia Mine Fire

In Pennsylvania, a fire has been burning underground since May 1962. This coal-seam fire, known as the Centralia mine fire, has defied all attempts to extinguish it and continues to smolder to this day.

The origins of the Centralia mine fire

The exact cause and start date of the Centralia mine fire remains a matter of debate. Some suggest that it was ignited deliberately on May 27, 1962. That’s when the town council set a fire to clean up the landfill in an abandoned strip mine. However, others argue that the fire had already been burning before that fateful day. They think it may have originated from the Bast Colliery coal fire of 1932.

Regardless of its precise origin, the fire quickly spread into the labyrinth of abandoned coal mines beneath Centralia. This helped perpetuate its unstoppable grip on the town.

The extent of the destruction

The Centralia mine fire is estimated to have the potential to burn for more than 250 years. It stretches over an area of 3,700 acres and reaches depths of up to 300 feet. This is a result of the abundance of coal and network of underground tunnels providing a fuel source.

Efforts to extinguish the fire have been futile, with multiple excavation projects failing to snuff out the flames.

The impact of the Centralia mine fire on the town and its residents has been catastrophic. Over time, the hazardous levels of carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and low oxygen levels caused health concerns, leading to the evacuation and relocation of most residents.

By 2017, the population dwindled to just five residents. That’s a stark contrast to the 1,500 inhabitants at the time the fire began. Abandoned buildings, crumbling infrastructure, and eerie streets shrouded in smoke have transformed Centralia into an unlikely tourist attraction.

The ongoing legacy of the fire

As the fire persisted, legal battles and controversies emerged. In 1992, Pennsylvania Governor Bob Casey invoked eminent domain, condemning all the buildings in Centralia. The government offered the residents buyouts, and most accepted, leaving only a handful determined to remain in their homes.

Despite appeals, the remaining residents were eventually ordered to leave. However, the town reached an agreement in 2013 to allow some holdouts live out their lives before the properties would be taken through eminent domain.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “This Mine Fire Has Been Burning For Over 50 Years” — History Channel

WTF Fun Fact 13383 – The Longest Sneezing Fit

According to the Guinness Book of World Records, “The longest sneezing fit ever recorded is that of Donna Griffiths (UK, b. 1969) who started sneezing on 13 January 1981 and surpassed the previous duration record of 194 days on 26 July 1981. She sneezed an estimated million times in the first 365 days and achieved her first sneeze-free day on 16 September 1983 – the 977th day.”

The longest sneezing fit in the world

Donna Griffiths holds the record for the longest sneezing fit ever recorded. Her ordeal began on January 13, 1981, and continued until September 16, 1983.

The uncontrollable sneezing started when Donna was just 12 years old. Initially, it began with an isolated sneeze, but soon escalated into an unending series of sneezes that persisted day and night. Doctors diagnosed her with “hay fever,” or allergic rhinitis. They hypothesized that it was triggered by an allergic reaction to environmental factors such as dust, pollen, or pet dander.

Throughout her marathon sneezing fit, Donna’s life was severely impacted. She found it challenging to carry out even the simplest daily tasks. The constant sneezing disrupted her sleep, hindered her ability to eat, and made it nearly impossible to concentrate. The physical strain on her body was immense, resulting in extreme exhaustion and weight loss.

The quest for a cure

Seeking relief, Donna consulted numerous medical professionals who struggled to find a solution. Doctors attempted to use antihistamines, steroids, and other allergy medications. But unfortunately, none provided any lasting respite. Specialists were baffled by the persistence of her condition and the lack of response to conventional treatments.

As news of Donna’s extraordinary sneezing fit spread, her case drew attention from the media and medical community alike. Reporters followed her story closely, documenting her struggles and attempts to find a cure. Her condition became a medical curiosity, and experts across the globe weighed in on potential causes and treatments for her unique case.

The end of the ordeal

Eventually, after enduring nearly three years of relentless sneezing, Donna’s condition began to subside. The sneezing fits gradually became less frequent and less intense until they eventually ceased altogether. The relief she experienced was indescribable, bringing an end to her remarkable and exhausting ordeal.

Donna’s case remains one of the most extraordinary medical mysteries in history. The exact reason behind her prolonged sneezing fit is still not fully understood, and her recovery has left doctors and researchers intrigued but perplexed. While her condition was undoubtedly a harrowing experience, Donna’s story serves as a testament to human resilience and the capacity to endure unimaginable challenges.

Today, Donna Griffiths lives a relatively normal life, free from the constant sneezing that once plagued her existence. Her remarkable journey continues to fascinate and inspire, reminding us of the remarkable complexities of the human body and the enduring spirit of those who face extraordinary circumstances.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “Sneezing myths and facts” — BBC News

WTF Fun Fact 13382 – Herbs That Repel Insects

You might consider planting some herbs that repel insects if you’re trying to enjoy the great outdoors but are being chased back inside by pesky mosquitos or other flying pests. Of course, insects are an integral part of the food chain. But you can take steps to avoid being a mosquito (or other biting insects) buffet.

Natural repellants

Nature already has the tools to help you keep many bugs at bay. And while we all know it’s not going to be 100% effective or work immediately, some careful planning can help you create a relatively bug-free sanctuary zone. It can even give you some simultaneous culinary inspiration.

One of the advantages of using these natural insect-repelling plants is that they not only serve a functional purpose but also contribute to the overall aesthetics of your garden. Their foliage, flowers, and delightful scents are easily incorporated into existing flower beds, herb gardens, or even container gardens, providing both practicality and visual appeal.

Herbs that repel insects naturally

The first thing you might consider planting is basil. While we find its aroma delightful, it’s unappealing to insects like mosquitoes. The active compounds in basil, such as linalool and eugenol, act as natural repellents. No bug smooshing necessary!

Not a big basil fan? Well, lavender is another good choice. Its purple blooms and calming fragrance are loved by humans but disliked by mosquitoes, flies, and moths. Planting lavender around your garden borders or near seating areas can provide a fragrant barrier that keeps these unwanted visitors away. But just so you know, the flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. This makes it a double win for some people – unless you don’t like bees.

Finally, mint is a great choice as an insect repellant. Its strong scent, derived from menthol, is highly effective at repelling both mosquitoes and ants. Planting mint strategically around your garden or near outdoor seating areas can be a great bug barrier. However, it’s important to note that mint can be invasive, so you may want to contain it in pots or planters to prevent it from taking over your garden.

Nothing is perfect

Gardening with these insect-repelling plants offers an eco-friendly alternative to chemical insecticides. By opting for natural repellents, you avoid exposure to potentially harmful chemicals.

To make the most of these insect-repelling plants, consider their placement within your garden. Plant them strategically near entrances, seating areas, or any place where you want to deter insects. Harvesting their leaves and flowers can also release more of their repellent properties. Crush a few leaves of basil or mint and rub them on your skin as a natural insect repellent when spending time outdoors.

Of course, herbs that repel insects may not provide complete protection against all types of pests. Therefore, it’s advisable to employ additional measures such as wearing long sleeves, using mosquito nets, or employing non-toxic insect repellents when necessary.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “10 Insect-Repelling Plants That Are Known To Keep The Bugs Away” — Farmer’s Almanac

WTF Fun Fact 13381 – Ruby Slippers Theft

For those unaware, the ruby red slippers worn by Judy Garland in “The Wizard of Oz” were actually stolen in 2005. These iconic shoes, synonymous with the film’s magic and Dorothy’s journey, were on display at the Judy Garland Museum in Minnesota when they were taken. The ruby slippers theft garnered significant attention and led to a lengthy search for their whereabouts.

The conclusion of the ruby slippers theft saga

In 2023, a grand jury in North Dakota indicted a man on charges of stealing a pair of iconic ruby red slippers worn by Judy Garland in the 1939 film “The Wizard of Oz.”

The theft occurred in 2005, but the slippers were recovered in a 2018 FBI sting operation. However, no arrests were made at the time. Terry Martin, a 76-year-old resident living near the Judy Garland Museum in Minnesota, was indicted. He was charged with one count of theft of a major artwork.

The indictment did not provide further details about Martin. When approached by the press, Martin declined to comment, only stating, “I gotta go on trial. I don’t want to talk to you.”

Janie Heitz, the executive director of the museum, expressed surprise. The subject lived nearby, and yet none of the staff had ever seen him.

Multiple pairs

During the production of “The Wizard of Oz,” Garland wore several pairs of ruby slippers. However, only four authentic pairs are known to exist today. At the time of the theft, the slippers were insured for $1 million, but their current market value is estimated to be around $3.5 million, according to federal prosecutors.

The stolen slippers were on loan to the Judy Garland Museum in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, the late actor’s hometown, when they were taken. Prosecutors reported that someone climbed through a window and broke the display case to steal the slippers.

The recovery of the stolen slippers followed years of searching and enticing rewards. Early in the case, law enforcement offered a $250,000 reward, and in 2015, an anonymous donor from Arizona pledged $1 million.

In 2017, a man contacted the shoes’ insurer, claiming he could help retrieve them. After an almost year-long investigation, the FBI seized the slippers in Minneapolis in July 2018. At that time, the bureau stated that no arrests had been made or charges filed in connection with the case.

Getting caught

A summons has been issued for Terry Martin, and an initial court appearance is scheduled for June 1 via video. The U.S. Justice Department in North Dakota provided limited information beyond the details included in the indictment.

The ruby red slippers are famously linked to the iconic line in “The Wizard of Oz,” where Garland’s character, Dorothy, clicks her heels together while repeating the phrase, “There’s no place like home.” The slippers are made from various materials, including wood pulp, silk thread, gelatin, plastic, and glass. The ruby color predominantly comes from sequins, while the bows feature red glass beads.

The other three pairs of slippers worn by Garland in the film are held by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the Smithsonian, and a private collector.

Once the legal case concludes, the museum staff hopes that the slippers will return to Garland’s hometown, providing a fitting tribute to the legendary actress.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “Man indicted in theft of ‘Wizard of Oz’ ruby slippers worn by Judy Garland” — AP News

WTF Fun Fact 13380 – Extreme Ironing

We didn’t realize anyone enjoyed ironing enough to actually keep up with it much less make it a sport, but extreme ironing is a real thing.

What is extreme ironing?

Extreme ironing, also known as EI, is a unique and unconventional sport that combines the ordinary task of ironing clothes with the thrill of extreme activities. It involves individuals taking their ironing boards and irons to remote and unusual locations, adding an element of excitement to an otherwise mundane household chore.

The Extreme Ironing Bureau defines EI as “the latest danger sport that combines the thrills of an extreme outdoor activity with the satisfaction of a well-pressed shirt.”

The history of the “sport”

Originating in Leicester, England in 1997, extreme ironing was conceived by Phil Shaw, also known as “Steam,” as a way to infuse fun into his daily routine. The concept quickly gained popularity and evolved into a global phenomenon.

Participants, or “ironists,” perform this task in various settings, such as mountainsides, forests, canoes, while skiing or snowboarding, atop statues or buildings, underwater, and even in the midst of bustling streets. These performances can be done individually or in groups.

A spectator sport

While the sport may appear tongue-in-cheek to some, EI has gained attention from media outlets worldwide due to its intriguing combination of mundane and extreme elements. The sport challenges participants not only to showcase their ironing skills but also to possess the physical stamina and mental resilience necessary to navigate and conquer unexpected environments.

Safety is a crucial aspect of EI, as participants must take precautions while engaging in their ironing adventures. The sport requires careful navigation and coordination, especially in more hazardous locations. Ironists prioritize their safety while ensuring they can successfully complete the task in extreme conditions.

Ironing goes mainstream(ish)

The sport has gained significant attention through documentaries and media coverage. A documentary titled “Extreme Ironing: Pressing for Victory,” produced by Britain’s Channel 4, followed the British team’s journey and their participation in the first Extreme Ironing World Championships in Germany. This exposure propelled EI into the international spotlight, attracting more enthusiasts to join the sport.

Notable achievements in the sport include ironing the Union Jack flag just above Everest Base Camp, setting a world altitude record for the sport. Ironists have also ironed across gorges, participated in bungee ironing (combining bungee jumping with ironing), and even ironed underwater, breaking records for the number of people ironing simultaneously.

The influence of EI has extended beyond the sport itself, inspiring other unusual activities like extreme cello playing.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “Extreme Ironing: History, Types, Objective, & Equipment” — Sportsmatik

WTF Fun Fact 13379 – Benefits of Listening to Birds

In the quest for improved mental health, one often overlooks the simple pleasures of nature. But a recent study published in Scientific Reports revealed the benefits of listening to birds and the profound impact birds can have on our mental health and well-being.

The benefits of listening to birds

Birds offer a unique connection to the natural world, proving to be a source of solace and rejuvenation. Birdsongs possess a remarkable ability to transport us to serene natural environments, even when we reside in bustling urban landscapes.

Research conducted by the Max Planck Institute for Human Development found that listening to birdsongs, even through headphones, can alleviate negative emotions.

Interacting with birds on a regular basis has been strongly linked to better mental health. A study involving 1,300 participants, who documented their well-being multiple times a day using the Urban Mind smartphone app, revealed a significant positive association between seeing or hearing birds and improved mental well-being. Remarkably, these benefits persisted for hours after the encounter.

Even individuals diagnosed with depression displayed positive effects when exposed to birdsong and birdlife in their surroundings. This highlights the importance of preserving and protecting environments that sustain bird populations, as they can provide a natural remedy for mental health challenges.

No need for real birds

In a separate study, participants who listened to diverse birdsongs reported a decrease in depressive symptoms, anxiety, and paranoia. This effect was even observed with just two species of birdsongs, showcasing the potential of these therapeutic sounds.

In contrast, exposure to traffic noise had adverse effects on mental well-being. The study reinforces the significance of nature’s healing aspects and highlights the negative impact of urban environments on our psychological state.

Nature, including birdsong, has a profound effect on our mental well-being. The attention restoration theory suggests that spending time in nature improves concentration and reduces mental fatigue associated with urban stress.

Furthermore, researchers have linked spending time in green spaces to reduced stress, lower blood pressure, and lower cortisol levels. Engaging with nature also promotes physical activity, adding another layer of mental health benefits. Birdwatching, in particular, has been shown to enhance mental health, with individuals who savor the joy of each bird sighting reporting greater benefits.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “Why birds and their songs are good for our mental health” — Washington Post

WTF Fun Fact 13378 – Volcanoes of Mars

The volcanoes of Mars are part of the planet’s dramatic landscape. Mars is also home to the solar system’s largest known volcano – Olympus Mons.

The many volcanoes of Mars

Mars’ volcanic landscape provides valuable insights into its geological history and the processes that have shaped its surface. The volcanoes of Mars have played a significant role in shaping the planet’s topography and its potential for supporting past or present life.

A variety of volcano types, including shield volcanoes, volcanic domes, and stratovolcanoes, exist on Mars. Shield volcanoes, such as Olympus Mons, exhibit a broad, low-profile shape and gentle slopes. Successive eruptions of fluid lava gradually build up the volcano’s size, facilitated by the low gravity of Mars, resulting in exceptionally large shield volcanoes that dominate the planet’s surface.

In addition to shield volcanoes, other volcanic structures on Mars provide unique insights. Volcanic domes form as viscous lava accumulates around a vent, creating a steep and rounded top. Scattered across the Martian landscape, these structures offer clues about past volcanic activity and its nature.

Olympus Mons

Olympus Mons stands as the largest volcano in the solar system. Its colossal size and unique characteristics make it a captivating subject of scientific study. Olympus Mons is a shield volcano, formed by repeated volcanic eruptions over millions of years. Unlike the steep-sided stratovolcanoes found on Earth, shield volcanoes are characterized by their broad, gently sloping profile.

Olympus Mons reaches an astonishing height of approximately 13.6 miles and spans a diameter of about 370 miles. This dwarfs Earth’s largest volcano, Mauna Loa in Hawaii.

The surface of Olympus Mons reveals intricate lava flow patterns, resulting from multiple eruptions over time. The volcano’s low topographic relief and extensive lava flows contribute to its shield-like shape.

An explosive field of research

While Mars is believed to be geologically less active than Earth, evidence suggests that volcanic activity on the planet occurred in the past and may even persist to a limited extent today. The discovery of volcanic features and geological clues shed light on the planet’s volcanic history.

Volcanic eruptions on Mars have had a significant impact on its environment. Outpourings of lava, release of volcanic gases, and ash deposition have influenced the composition of the Martian atmosphere and potentially affected the planet’s climate.

The study of Martian volcanoes provides scientists with a deeper understanding of the processes that shape rocky planets. By comparing volcanic activity on Mars to that on Earth and other celestial bodies, researchers can unravel the underlying mechanisms driving volcanic eruptions and their implications for planetary evolution.

— WTF fun facts

Source: Olympus Mons – NASA Mars Exploration

WTF Fun Fact 13377 – Tu Youyou and the Nobel Prize

Tu Youyou is a Chinese scientist and pharmaceutical chemist whose groundbreaking work in the discovery of artemisinin revolutionized malaria treatment. Her contributions have had a significant impact on global health, saving countless lives. Interestingly, she sought (and found) the award-winning compound in the corpus of Ancient Chinese Medicine.

According to the Nobel Prize website (cited below): “She is the first mainland Chinese scientist to have received a Nobel Prize in a scientific category, and she did so without a doctorate, a medical degree, or training abroad.”

The training of Tu Youyou

Born in Ningbo, Zhejiang, China, Tu’s interest in medicine may have started after she had to miss two years of school after a bout of tuberculosis.

Tu’s interests eventually landed her at Beijing Medical College. There, she studied pharmacology – a modern science – but with a traditional backbone. At college, she learned how to classify medicinal plants and extract their active ingredients in order to learn more about their chemical structure. She would do this with many of the thousands of plants in the ancient Chinese medical handbooks.

Tu Youyou went to work at the Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine in 1955, after graduation.

She was first asked by the Chinese government to help find a treatment for malaria during the Vietnam War. Vietnamese soldiers were dying in droves because the disease had become resistant to the standard treatment – chloroquine. But this posed a global health threat. She joined the battle against the disease after Chairman Mao Zedong launched a project called Project 523 in 1967.

Discovering a new malaria treatment

In 1969, Tu became the head of Project 523 and traveled to Hainan Island in southern China. She had to leave her two young children behind for three years to study the disease in its deadly habitat.

After she returned, the scientific work began.

In Beijing, Tu and her team were facing a difficult situation. Over 240,000 compounds had already been tested for their potential use in anti-malarial drugs, but none worked. That’s when they returned to the ancient Chinese medical text.

A reference to sweet wormwood (known as Artemisia annua) would turn out to be the key. She had identified it for its ability to help with “intermittent fevers” – a key symptom of malaria. It had been used in China around 400 AD.

Turning nature into medicine

Through meticulous experimentation, Tu Youyou and her team successfully isolated a compound from Artemisia annua that demonstrated potent anti-malarial properties. She named this compound artemisinin. It was very successful in killing malaria in laboratory tests.

After lab tests came clinical trials, which were also successful. The great thing about artemisinin was that it helped kill malaria while minimizing the development of resistance to the medication. Artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs), which combine artemisinin derivatives with other anti-malarial drugs, have since become the gold standard in malaria treatment worldwide.

Tu Youyou’s groundbreaking discoveries earned her numerous accolades and recognition. In 2015, she was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, becoming the first Chinese scientist to receive this prestigious honor. Her contributions have had a profound impact on global health, particularly in regions heavily burdened by malaria.

Tu Youyou’s impact on the future

Artemisinin and its derivatives have transformed malaria treatment and played a crucial role in reducing the mortality rate of this deadly disease. Their widespread use has significantly contributed to the decline in malaria-related deaths worldwide. Tu Youyou’s work continues to inspire scientists, researchers, and healthcare professionals in the ongoing fight against malaria.

Despite the remarkable success of artemisinin-based therapies, challenges remain in the battle against malaria. The emergence of drug resistance, particularly in Southeast Asia, underscores the need for ongoing research and innovative approaches to combat this persistent global health issue. Scientists continue to study artemisinin and explore novel drug combinations to stay ahead of the evolving malaria parasite.

— WTF fun facts

Source: Tu Youyou – The Nobel Prize website