Attached at the Abdomen, Twins Kendra and Maliyah Were Born in 2002
In a Salt Lake City hospital, two baby girls were born joined together at the abdomen. The twins, named Kendra and Maliyah Herrin, had a rare condition which meant they shared a pelvis, a kidney, and a liver. Despite the odds stacked against them, the Herrin twins defied all expectations by surviving birth and making it out of the womb. The doctors had warned Kendra and Maliyah’s parents that their chances of survival were slim.
Although Kendra and Maliyah miraculously survived birth, the reality of their condition left many wondering how much longer the twins could live; would they beat the odds, or would their time together be tragically cut short?
They Were Not Expected to Live Past 24 Hours
Of every 200,000 live births, only one results in conjoined twins, and many don’t survive. Yet, the Herrin twins made it through their first night, which increased their chances of survival. Despite the joy of their parents, the twins’ shared vital organs meant that the doctors predicted they wouldn’t make it past 24 hours. As the days went by, Kendra and Maliyah proved the medical experts wrong, but their parents soon faced an excruciating choice.
Would the twins continue to defy expectations, or was the end near? Surely they couldn’t continue healthy lives in this state, so how could their parents and doctors give them a chance at life?
The Ultimate Decision Had to Be Made
Conjoined twins Kendra and Maliyah Herrin spent their first few years of life literally inseparable, living every moment together. However, their shared organs posed severe medical complications that would worsen with time. Their parents, Jake and Erin, were faced with an impossible decision. Should they leave their daughters joined for life, risking regrets later on? Or should they undergo the risky procedure of separating the twins? It was a scary situation to be in.
Neither option seemed ideal, and Jake and Erin struggled with what to do next. With their daughters’ futures at stake, the Herrin family braced themselves for an uncertain road ahead.×
Their Parents Were Conflicted on What to Do
Conjoined twins are a rarity, and the decision to separate them is not an easy one for any family. Despite advancements in medical technology, the Herrin family struggled to weigh the risks and benefits of surgery for four-year-old Kendra and Maliyah. Countless consultations with doctors and psychologists left the family searching for answers, but one thing ultimately made the decision a bit easier. They knew they couldn’t live their lives conjoined forever.
The Herrins took a leap of faith and opted for the risky separation surgery. Their decision would alter the twins’ lives forever, but it was a necessary one for the Herrin family to make.
Separating the Twins Could Be Fatal
Separating conjoined twins is a complex and risky procedure, and for Kendra and Maliyah Herrin, sharing multiple organs made the decision even more difficult. The girls shared a single kidney, a condition that significantly threatened their lives. Kendra spoke candidly about the risks on the twins’ YouTube channel, emphasizing the danger of having one kidney to support two people. Despite these challenges, the Herrin family knew separating the girls was necessary for their long-term health and independence.
The decision to undergo the operation was not easy, but in the end, it was worth it for the twins’ chance at a brighter future. Or was it?
How Do You Explain to Little Kids That They Are About to Be Cut Apart
The Herrin twins were just toddlers when their parents had to explain to them that they would undergo a surgery to be separated. Maliyah and Kendra tried to comprehend what the procedure would entail, but they were too young to fully understand the risks involved; they were so small after all. As Kendra recounted on their YouTube channel, their parents reassured them that everything would be alright and referred to the surgery as “cut-apart day.”
It was a difficult conversation to have, but the girls would soon face an even tougher road ahead as they prepared for the separation surgery.
Preparing for the Life-Altering Surgery
The girl’s parents wanted to ensure their daughters were adequately prepared before they entered that hospital for life-changing surgery. The Herrin sisters even shared, “We had our own playroom, we had dolls…We also got nurse badges too.” It was clear the staff at the hospital, their nurses, and their parents were doing their best to make them feel comfortable. But the outcome of the surgery was ultimately unknown until the day it happened.
All their parents wanted was for the girls to have good memories to think of leading up to the days of their surgery, especially considering that it could be their last days together.
Their Skin Had to Be Stretched Every Week
Although much mental preparation was necessary before this surgery, the medical preparation was just as intense. The girls shared bodies, which meant they shared skin. Before doctors could separate them, they had to ensure their bodies could handle it. “Every week, we would get tissue expanders which were, like, little balloons that you get placed under the skin so that the skin stretches so that we would have enough skin to get closed.”
This was a painful part of the process, and although the girls were so young, Kendra and Maliyah say they remember this sensation. Even with all this preparation, their lives weren’t guaranteed.
Getting Ready for the Worst-Case Scenario
When faced with the daunting prospect of their conjoined twins’ surgery, the parents did what any loving parents would do – they showered their children with even more love and quality family time. Kendra shared that the week leading up to the operation was the best they’d ever had, filled with fun family outings to the zoo and the pool. The goal was to create lasting memories in case the worst happened.
And finally, the fateful day arrived – the day the girls would be separated, and the family’s world would change forever.
Surgery Day Arrived and Everyone Was Nervous
A week before their surgery, the girls were brought to the hospital to get comfortable in their room and for the medical team to get to know them. As the days passed, the family couldn’t shake off the overwhelming anxiety and fear. Finally, the day arrived – “Cut Apart Day.” Emotions ran high as they wheeled the twins toward the surgery room. Tears flowed freely as the family braced themselves for what lay ahead.
It was a day that would either bid farewell forever to their beloved daughters or welcome a new chapter in their lives.
It Was Finally Time for the Girls to Be Separated
As the time arrived for the twins to undergo their traumatic surgery, the question of how to prepare them weighed heavily on the Herrin parents’ minds. In a heartwarming twist, they organized a scavenger hunt around the hospital, leading the girls to the operating room. Kendra shared the story on the twins’ YouTube channel, revealing how they had no idea what was happening until they reached the final number and were whisked away into surgery.
The family exchanged final goodbyes and prayers, and Jake and Erin gave their daughters tender kisses as they were wheeled past the swinging doors and into the operating room.
A Tough 26 Hours Later
The girls shared that for them, it felt like they were only gone for one hour during the surgery; it actually lasted an excruciating 26 hours. Six skilled surgeons and 25 support staff worked tirelessly to separate the twins at the torso, leaving them each with one leg. The post-surgery period was equally daunting, as the girls had to spend three months in the hospital to ensure a successful outcome and long-term health.
The road to recovery was scary, but the Herrin family was fortunate to have an incredible support network during this challenging time. However, they didn’t know how the girls would heal.
Their Story Was Making News and People Were Sending Them Fan Mail
The story of the Herrin twins tugged at the heartstrings of many in Salt Lake City and beyond, whether they knew the girls personally or had been following their story. “We got fan mail while we were in the hospital. We still have some of it,” Maliyah shared. Throughout their hospital stay, the twins were visited by loved ones, and upon their release, they were welcomed home with a big celebration.
But this wasn’t fully over for Maliyah; in fact, another intense journey was about to start.
Maliyah Was Left Without a Kidney
Due to having only one kidney shared between them, the medical team had to make a difficult decision. Kendra received the kidney, and Maliyah went on dialysis for nine months until her mother donated her kidney. All seemed to be going well for her for years Until suddenly, a decade later, Maliyah’s body began rejecting her mom’s kidney. She had to return to dialysis, and the future once again looked unclear.
It remained uncertain how Maliyah’s condition would progress and how long she would have to undergo this treatment, but one thing was known, she needed another kidney and fast.
An Anonymous Kidney Donor Saved Maliyah’s Life
Maliyah had to endure dialysis for another 18 months while also being on a waitlist for organ donations. Despite the challenges, she remained positive and strong. Her mother, Erin Herrin, expressed admiration for her daughter’s resilience, noting that Maliyah coped with the loss of friends who also had to undergo dialysis. After a long wait, a generous anonymous donor provided a kidney, allowing Maliyah to stop dialysis and get another shot at life finally.
But even with the possibility of another kidney transplant in the near future, there were still uncertainties and risks involved. And only time would tell if her body would reject this kidney also.
Maliyah Undergoes Another Kidney Transplant
Maliyah’s family was scared for her and wasn’t sure how she would survive this. She was initially left without a kidney, then through her mom’s bravery, she had a kidney for ten years before it gave out. So now she had no choice but to face a kidney transplant again and hoped there would be no complications this time around. However, it was easier said than done because the difficulties didn’t stop there.
After the second successful transplant, her new kidney seemed to be malfunctioning, and she became severely dehydrated twice, and then came a third scare with an incorrect medication dosage. But she managed to survive.
Getting Used to Being Your Own Person Felt Weird
It’s a bond like no other: being conjoined to someone else. But for Kendra and Maliyah, the feeling was just plain weird. That’s why they’re grateful their parents made the tough call to separate them in a life-changing surgery. Although it came with many risks, it was ultimately successful, and they are happy. With such different personalities, they admit they would have fought all the time if they had stayed connected.
Now, they get to enjoy separate lives and pursue their own interests, something no one would have ever expected when they were babies.
High School Was a Time They Finally Felt Independent
For these girls, growing up and becoming a teenager wasn’t guaranteed, and their parents were unsure if it would ever be in the cards. But they were healthy and entered high school, experiencing a newfound freedom and independence they hadn’t before. Every day, they woke up, got ready, and headed off to school with the help of a friend. They studied, got around school, and even came home and made dinner on their own.
They never thought they would have this level of independence, so every milestone was an accomplishment.
Getting Around on Their Own Was Expected to Be Difficult
Now being independent called for getting creative with mobility devices and navigating how they would even get around their homes. Their father’s ingenious idea was to use doctor’s stools. It ended up being one of the easiest ways to roll around their home. But outside their house, they still needed to figure out an alternative. What could they use for long days walking around? Well, they found the perfect thing.
Whether it was trips to amusement parks or concerts, they had electric scooters to ride. And for shorter distances, like navigating high school, they use walkers.
Learning to Walk Was the Next Big Feat
Kendra and Maliyah’s P.E. teacher Donna believed in the girls’ potential, despite their physical limitations. They initially felt pretty weak, but with her encouragement, the twins set a lofty goal for themselves: to walk on crutches by the end of the school year. Overcoming their fears and weaknesses, the girls worked tirelessly to achieve their goals. And when they finally did, it was a moment of triumph for all involved.
Within no time, the girls walked on crutches and even up the staircase at school. They certainly came a long way to get to that point.
Trying to Make School a Safe Space
High school can be challenging, but Kendra and Maliyah Herrin have found a way to thrive. Despite the challenges that come with being formerly conjoined twins, the girls have had a positive experience. Despite their differences and using walkers around school, they’ve shared that they haven’t experienced bullying, something they feel very grateful for. Their positive outlook on life has inspired many, proving that anything is possible with the right mindset and support system.
They were rightfully nervous about what high school would be like for them. Could they make friends? Would they get to attend activities that all the other kids go to?
Building Meaningful Friendships Despite Adversity
Kendra and Maliyah Herrin’s friends have always treated them like any other friend, a fact that the twins are immensely grateful for. Even with their unique physical condition, their friends hardly notice that they have one leg. Instead, they are in awe of the twins’ courage and resilience. One friend, Anabelle, shared that the girls taught her a lot about going through trials with grace and bravery. She admits she doesn’t know if she could endure what the girls have gone through.
However, there’s one challenge the sisters faced that even their bond seemed insufficient to conquer. What is this challenge, and will they be able to overcome it?
Learning to Drive Was the Next Challenge
Learning to drive can be a daunting task, and for many, it’s the ultimate test of their ability to conquer their fears. At the start of their lives, their parents had little hope for the future. They were unsure of what lay ahead, but for Maliyah and Kendra, there was nothing they couldn’t take on. So they decided to take the leap and learn how to drive. Was it possible, and could they succeed?
Their newfound confidence spilled over into other areas of their lives, and they began taking on new challenges. They learned how to navigate their way through the world, both on and off the road.
Maintaining a Positive Outlook Despite Challenges
The Herrin twins have faced numerous challenges in their lives, but their positive attitude toward life remains unshaken. “Having one leg means we only have to paint one set of toenails, so that’s really nice,” they joked during an interview. Their self-confidence and optimistic outlook are truly inspiring, even to their own mother. “The self-esteem that they have blows me away. Lots of people could learn a lot of things from them.”
As the twins strive to maintain a positive attitude, they face challenges that threaten to break their spirits. Will they overcome the barriers of a world that is not always accommodating to those with disabilities?
Advocating for the Inclusion of Individuals With Disabilities
The Herrin twins have become more than just viral sensations; they have become advocates for those with disabilities. With their newfound platform, the twins use their voices to promote inclusion and understanding. They encourage others to ask questions and have honest conversations about their experiences. “Don’t be afraid to talk to someone,” Kendra said. “But be respectful about it.” Getting around and having people stare at you is not always easy, but they manage with grace.
Through their advocacy work, they hope the world will be a more inclusive and accepting world for all. Despite their disabilities, they can do things that anyone else can.
Reaching Milestones Their Parents Didn’t Know They’d Make
In 2022, the girls reached a milestone no one thought they would make. They turned 20 years old and were living life independently. Kendra worked as a cashier at a grocery store and already earned a phlebotomy certification when she was just 18 years old. Meanwhile, Maliyah recently graduated from Davis Technical College in digital media and wants to start a career in graphic design. Despite their challenges, the twins continue to pursue their dreams.
But as they looked towards the future, a new fear started to creep in – would they be able to continue defying the odds and living their lives to the fullest, or would their past struggles catch up to them?
They May Have Had One Body but They Have Two Completely Different Personalities
The girls are twins, after all, yet they are convinced they look nothing alike. Despite being once joined together, they couldn’t be more different. It’s only natural that one sister is more outgoing and extroverted while the other is more introverted. But that doesn’t stop them from hanging out and being friends. Although this is precisely why they are so grateful they were separated because it would’ve been difficult to live lives with very different interests had they been stuck together.
Just because they are sisters and twins and were once morphed into one person, they are people with different personalities. So where can they really let their charisma shine through? School, of course!
Life Isn’t Easy All the Time for Maliyah and Kendra
Maliyah and Kendra have overcome incredible challenges and are living life to the fullest. But, as with most things in life, it’s not always sunshine and rainbows. Their health condition is a constant reminder of the fragility of life. At any moment, they could find themselves back in the hospital, fighting for their lives once again. This reality hit home hard when Kendra was supposed to start school and faced a massive infection.
She underwent surgery and stayed in the hospital for the next few days, undergoing treatment with a wound vac to help remove the infection. So, while things may seem to be going well for Maliyah and Kendra, it’s important to remember that their journey is far from over.
They Started a YouTube Channel as an Outlet for Their Experience
The power of social media is undeniable, and Kendra and Maliyah Herrin have experienced it firsthand. Their YouTube channel has not only allowed them to express their personalities, but it has also given them a platform to share their inspiring story with the world. They like the idea of bringing a smile to people’s faces and sharing a silly side of themselves that people don’t always get to see or wouldn’t know from first impressions.
Who knew that making videos on YouTube would have such an impact on their lives? But it turned out to be the perfect thing for them.
Social Media Has Brought Them the Confidence They Never Thought They’d Have
Kendra and Maliyah have come a long way since they first started their YouTube channel, and it’s not just their confidence that has improved. Their videos have made an impact on people’s lives around the world. They never thought they would be the type of people to get in front of a camera, but now they can’t imagine their lives without it. The girls’ positive outlook and humor shine through in their videos, making them an inspiration to many.
But surely, putting themselves all over social media can come with backlash or rude comments. So how do they stay positive through all of the adversity?
Not Surviving but Thriving Against All Odds
The Herrin twins have overcome tremendous obstacles in their lives, but their journey has not been without darkness and mystery. Despite their unwavering positivity, it’s impossible not to wonder about the challenges that still lie ahead for them. Will their health hold up? Will they continue to face discrimination and challenges in a world that is not always welcoming to those with disabilities? Only time will tell what lies ahead for them.
The future is uncertain, but what we do know is that the Herrins have already proven themselves to be survivors, fighters, and inspirations to us all.
From Unlikely Survival to Graduating School
Against all odds, the Herrin twins were given a slim chance of survival at birth. But today, they have defied expectations and overcome challenges that many would find insurmountable. From their early years as conjoined twins to their current status as healthy and thriving young adults, their journey has been nothing short of inspirational. They both graduated from school, something no one thought was possible. They continue to defy expectations and break barriers.
Who could have guessed that these once-fragile babies would make it this far? The Herrin twins are a testament to the power of perseverance and the resilience of the human spirit.
Overcoming Struggles to Party and Enjoy Life
Doctors gave them only 24 hours to live, but against all odds, they are thriving in their twenties. Despite the many challenges they’ve faced, their lives are filled with joy and fun. They make time to hang out with friends and have attended numerous school dances, creating unforgettable memories. They even work full-time jobs and have attended work parties with their co-workers. Even with their disabilities, they lead a fun life that once seemed impossible.
Having shown their strength by maintaining their health, pursuing education, making friends, and living life to the fullest, what could be the next challenge for these sisters? What might they aim for that seems beyond their grasp?
They Made It to Their Twenties
They say that life begins at twenty, and for Maliyah and Kendra, that couldn’t be truer. After over a decade of being separated, enduring countless surgeries, and even kidney transplants, they have officially entered their twenties, ready to face all life’s new challenges. But navigating through the turbulent waters of one’s twenties is no easy feat. Maliyah and Kendra have already overcome so much, but can they handle this new phase of their lives?
Will their bond and shared experiences give them the strength to handle anything life throws at them? Only time will tell, but we’re rooting for them every step of the way.
They Refuse to Let Anything Stand in Their Way
Maliyah and Kendra have proven time and time again that there’s nothing they can’t do. Despite facing countless challenges and obstacles, they’ve persevered and found ways to enjoy life to the fullest. Many assume that their health condition holds them back, that they can’t walk, drive, or even swim. But Maliyah and Kendra refuse to let anyone else dictate what they can or cannot do. Their lives have had their fair share of ups and downs, but they’ve never let that stop them.
Maliyah and Kendra have proven that life is what you make of it. They’ve taken their challenges and turned them into opportunities, and in doing so, they’ve inspired us all to do the same.
Decades After His Disappearance, Man’s Son Searches For Answers
Jason Pasos
It’s not uncommon for people to go missing, but it is rare for them to virtually disappear into thin air and never be found or heard of again. That’s what happened to a man named George Carroll in 1961. His disappearance rocked a community and left his family with a decades-long unsolved mystery. Investigators would be left with virtually no clues until more than half a century later when his youngest son happened to stumble upon something he couldn’t ignore. This is the unexpected way in which their story unraveled.
George Carroll and the Rest of the Family
Before George Carroll disappeared, he’d already lived a pretty eventful life. In 1934, in the midst of The Great Depression, George was born. However, he didn’t let this define him, and he went on to marry a woman named Dorothy, and the two had four children. Those children were named Patricia, Steven, Jean, and Mike, with Mike being the youngest of the four. He’d also be the one to stumble across the clue in the basement later in his life.
Gemma Evans (@stayandroam) via Unsplash
However, when their father disappeared, all four children were very young. Mike wasn’t even a year old, and the oldest of the children, Patricia, was only nine years old at the time.
1961 Was a Year to Remember
There was a lot going on the year George disappeared. The year 1961 was filled with historical events. At the beginning of the year, John F. Kennedy was sworn in as the nation’s first Catholic president and its youngest leader in history. During the event, Kennedy gave his speech and famously said, “Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country.”
It was also the year that Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin became the first human to travel in space, giving the Soviet Union the lead in the space race and causing panic among the Americans.
1961 for the Carrol Family Was Full of Trauma
While the world was in the midst of the Cold War and historical events were happening all around them, the Carroll family didn’t have time to take it all in. That’s because this was the year that George disappeared without a trace. From that moment on, nothing would ever be the same, and the entire family would be haunted by the disappearance of George for years and decades to come.
Jože Gal via Wikimedia Commons
While the Carroll children were still quite young during this time, they would grow to deal with the disappearance in different ways while it deeply impacted their mother, Dorothy.
Left With Questions That Couldn’t Be Answered
Naturally, the Carroll children grew up wanting to know what happened to their father. However, their mother could never bring herself to talk about the disappearance for very long, and the children were largely left with a slew of unanswered questions. According to an interview conducted by the New York Post with the youngest child, Mike, in 2018, he said, “They always told me, ‘Don’t ask’… So I stopped asking.”
Llyfrgell Genedlaethol Cymru / The National Library of Wales via Wikimedia Commons
You can imagine what it might’ve been like growing up without a father and never being told what happened. Not only that, but it sounds like the whole situation was treated as if it were taboo.
Theories as to Why George Disappeared
Left with no definitive answer as to why George disappeared, Dorothy could only give limited answers to her children. She reportedly told them that he simply left to go to the store one day and never returned. However, it didn’t take long for the children to have doubts about this theory. For one thing, they came across their father’s wallet when they were still kids. Why would someone go to the store without their wallet?
Mike later said that he never bought the story that their father simply left and never came back home, but it’s unclear exactly what his mother actually believed.
Rumors as to What Happened to George
It didn’t take long for others to speculate as to what happened to George. There were a couple of different rumors, but the most popular was that he’d flown back to Korea. George had served during the Korean War during the early 1950s, and it wasn’t unheard of for veterans to return to the country after the war ended. Just why he’d want to return was never explained in the rumor.
공보처 홍보국 사진담당관 via Wikimedia Commons
However, it was one possible explanation that sought to explain how a grown man could just up and disappear from his home one day. Other rumors were a bit more dark.
A Much Darker Explanation for the Disappearance
With so much mystery surrounding his disappearance, there was bound to be some rumors that alleged George was actually murdered. One such rumor said that he was buried in the basement. Coincidentally, the basement was being built at the time of George’s disappearance, so it didn’t take long for neighbors and others to connect the two. We could only imagine how devastating it must’ve been for the family to hear things like this.
William Daigneault via Unsplash
After losing a father and husband, the last thing you want to have to deal with are rumors alleging you had something to do with it. But what did the police think, and how did they handle the situation?
Did Anyone File a Missing Persons Report?
You’d think that one of the first things someone would do when a family member disappeared was file a missing persons report. However, this apparently never happened after George’s disappearance. It’s unclear why Dorothy never sought the help of the police. Perhaps she really did believe that George had simply abandoned the family. After all, it was a different time, and there were fewer repercussions for fathers who left.
Eyewitness News ABC7NY via YouTube
However, her not filing a missing persons report no doubt led to some of the rumors that haunted the family and their home. What happened next must’ve also seemed strange to some.
Dorothy Remarries Shortly After the Disappearance
It wasn’t long after George’s disappearance that another man moved into the house. His name was Richard Darress, and he and Dorothy would go on to marry not long after and have a child together. The sudden marriage must’ve seemed strange to the neighbors, not only because of the relatively short timeframe but also because of the times. However, the two weren’t meant to be, and they eventually divorced.
Municipal Archives of Trondheim via Wikimedia Commons
The entire thing probably took its toll not only on the children but also on Dorothy. The exact reasons for the divorce are still somewhat unknown, but we do know a couple of things.
The Suspected Reason for the Divorce
While it’s not known for sure what happened between Dorothy and Richard, we do know that in the divorce filing, she said that he’d been unfaithful. Exactly what happened is still unclear. The divorce was made official in 1983, but she’d asked him to leave years earlier. Undoubtedly, this caused even more rumors in the neighborhood, but after George’s disappearance, it’s not surprising that Dorothy wasn’t willing to put up with any more misbehavior from her husband.
Eyewitness News ABC7NY via YouTube
However, we may never know exactly what happened between the two because not long after their divorce, Richard up and left not just the town but the entire country.
Richard Moves to Mexico
Not long after the divorce, Richard up and moved to Mexico for unknown reasons. We do know that while in Mexico, he remarried, but it eventually led to another divorce. Fox News obtained the divorce filing and learned that his new wife received a temporary protection order against Richard, adding to the mystery of what happened not only between those two but also between Richard and Dorothy.
We may never know the full truth because Richard passed away in 2018. He was 77 years old when he died, and he took anything he may have known about George’s disappearance with him.
The Rumor About George Leaving Persisted
Dorothy stuck to the theory that George abandoned the family for years, even as the children grew older. What responses they could get from their mother always led back to this theory. However, it was only a matter of time before they became old enough to search for the truth on their own. “There wasn’t a lot of conversation about it. We grew curious about where he may be as grownups,” Steven told local channel WABC in 2018.
Eyewitness News ABC7NY via YouTube
It wouldn’t be long before some of the children did just that and started to search for answers on their own. What one of them would eventually discover would change the entire narrative.
Mike Purchases the Carroll Family Home
Before their mother passed away in 1988, Mike decided to buy the family home. Most likely just to keep it in the family, but he, like the rest of the children, also had some questions. Not able to completely put the old rumors about his father out of his head, Mike started to look towards the basement and wonder if there wasn’t some truth in the rumors about what happened to his dad.
Eyewitness News ABC7NY via YouTube
You can hardly blame him and the rest of the children, especially considering that they grew up not being able to talk about their father’s absence and mysterious disappearance.
Mike Begins to Search for His Father
Referring to the search for his father, Mike told reporters, “It didn’t happen overnight. It’s something that’s been spoken about for years,” adding, “This is something that, as we got older, you know, we heard various stories.” We can’t imagine what it must’ve been like to grow up hearing the rumors and finally having the chance to begin your own search. We’re sure there were parts of him that were split on what he actually hoped to find.
Eyewitness News ABC7NY via YouTube
The search, seemingly simple on the outside, would prove to be filled with challenges as Mike started digging down in the basement of the family home in search of his father.
Mike Starts Digging for Answers
Mike began to break ground inside the basement of the family home in 2012. We can’t imagine what must’ve been running through his head at the time. However, whatever it was, it was interrupted by the fact that he had to stop not long after he’d begun. Structural issues forced him to temporarily halt his digging because he feared that the house could collapse if he continued to dig around the foundations.
Eyewitness News ABC7NY via YouTube
“I was actually digging in the wrong place. So it got to the point where it became dangerous because I was afraid my house would collapse. So I stopped digging,” he told a local station called News 12.
Experts Are Brought In
Despite the temporary setback, Mike was determined to continue the search, and not long after, he decided to bring in a group of experts to help him dig up the basement. However, he also made sure that he was involved in the search every step of the way, and he often occupied his time by carrying slabs of concrete from the basement upstairs before throwing them outside and going back down to grab more.
However, the team wasn’t just digging mindlessly; and they’d recruited the help of technology in their effort to find out what really happened to George all of those years ago.
Ground-Penetrating Radar Finds Something
Among the team of experts Mike brought in was someone who knew how to scan the Earth using ground-penetrating radar. And it wasn’t long before the radar picked up something strange in Mike’s basement. Around six feet under the floor, it detected a strange mass that was different from the surrounding soil. But just what was this anomaly, and could it lead to answers concerning his father’s sudden disappearance?
United States Air Force via Wikimedia Commons
Mike was determined to find out. However, at the time, digging up the basement wasn’t the only means of finding answers that Mike was actively pursuing, and he and the family sought out other help as well.
Using Less Orthodox Tactics to Find Their Father
Mike was far more concerned with using modern means to find their father, but when someone in your family mysteriously disappears, you’ll do whatever it takes to track them down. So, after urging from his sister, Mike visited physic, who he hoped could shed some light on the mystery. “There are, of course, premonitions, hunches, things like that,” Mike told the New York Post during the interview they had together.
As an adult, Mike was firmly a believer in science, but it turned out that he could recall one strangely familiar interaction with what some might call the supernatural when he was young.
A Strange Encounter
At one point during his interview with the local News 12 station, Mike said that he remembered a weird encounter he and a friend had in the family home when they were little. “My friend came over from Georgia and said, ‘Mike, I came out of your bathroom, and I saw a guy standing there, like, you know, the shadow of a man, standing up and coming down the stairs’— But that’s beside the point,” he said.
Eyewitness News ABC7NY via YouTube
The story helps explain why Mike might be open to going and seeing a physic, and it certainly is weird that coming from a friend who was staying a night in the family home.
The Physic Visits the Carroll Home
Whether you believe in the paranormal or not is beside the point. There is certainly reason to be skeptical when it comes to people who claim they can connect with the other side, but according to Mike, something strange happened when the psychic visited the Carroll home. “There was a guy who came into my basement. And he went to the right place and said, ‘The energy is here,” Mike said during his interview with the New York Post.
Eyewitness News ABC7NY via YouTube
That meant that Mike had a couple of clues that all pointed to something buried down in the basement. However, something would once again try and derail his search just as it was gaining momentum.
Mike Has a Stroke
During the search for his father, Mike suffered from a stroke. Having a stroke is never a pleasant experience, but Mike had one at what must’ve seemed like the worst possible time. Luckily, Mike’s two sons, Christopher and Michael Jr., said that they would carry on the search while their father was recovering. “I think they felt bad for me because they knew this was important to me,” Mike said during his interview with News 12.
The Fullbright Company via Wikimedia Commons
With the two sons now taking over the dig, it wouldn’t be long before they came across something that changed the family story forever and finally put to rest the age-old question of what happened to George.
The Sons Find Something in the Basement
Mike’s two sons were digging in the basement when they happened across something not long after they had started. The discovery was around seven feet down, and it was in the same spot where the gound-penetrating radar and the physic had told Mike to dig. Excited about their discovery and also probably a little shocked about what they’d just found, the two quickly ran out of the basement to tell their father.
Greg Davis via Wikimedia Commons
It’s not clear if they understood the impact of what they’d just found or if they had uncovered all of it or only parts, but they were most certainly at least a little shocked.
Mike Surveys the Find
Mike was still recovering from his stroke when his boys ran up the stairs and told him they’d found something while digging. He told the news station that it was a bit hard for him to go upstairs and downstairs but that he had to go into the basement and see for himself what the boys had found. He was simply too eager not to go and see for himself.
Eyewitness News ABC7NY via YouTube
When he got down into the hole, it didn’t take him long to figure out that he was probably staring at bones that belonged to a person. The boys had stumbled upon human remains.
Alerting the Family and Police
The bones weren’t laid out as you might expect them to be in a casket. Instead, “He was twisted into a knot, weird-looking,” Mike said, adding, “He was lying twisted in the dirt… he wasn’t totally exposed either.” Whatever had happened, it looked as though it wasn’t pleasant. This probably immediately raised more questions, but at the time, Mike knew he had to contact the rest of the family.
Eyewitness News ABC7NY via YouTube
That’s just what he did. The next day, on Halloween, Mike called the police to let them know that they’d discovered human remains buried in the basement of the Carroll home.
The Police Open up an Investigation
It didn’t take long for the police to get to the home and confirm that they’d found human remains. However, to know if it really was George buried in the basement, the bones would have to be sent away for DNA testing. The police opened an official investigation for the first time since George’s disappearance, but everyone would have to wait for the test results to find out for sure if it was him.
Eyewitness News ABC7NY via YouTube
It might seem like a shut-and-closed case at this point, but you want to be 100% sure and put to rest the mystery of what happened to George nearly half a century ago.
Mike Is Sure He Found His Father
While the world would have to wait to know for sure if the remains belonged to George or not, Mike had no doubts. During his interview with the New York Post, Mike said, “[They’re] going to be [of] my father. This is going to be a great thing for him — to be emancipated from that place where he didn’t belong.” The burden of years of wondering what happened must’ve finally lifted when the remains were found.
Eyewitness News ABC7NY via YouTube
If the bones did belong to George, it would also mean that those rumors about what happened to him all those years ago would be true. However, it was more likely that they were lucky guesses than that they stemmed from anyone with knowledge of what happened.
Mike Finally Gets Some Closure
From the interviews he gave when the bones were being tested, it was clear to see that Mike had found some solace in discovering the remains. “I felt a vindication for my dad. I felt like he was dancing in the sky,” Mike said during an interview with News 12. The rest of the family was also relieved to finally know what happened to their father after decades of wondering.
Eyewitness News ABC7NY via YouTube
However, they couldn’t be 100% sure until the test results came back, no matter how likely it now seemed that George had finally been found years later in the basement.
The Test Results
It took a couple of months for the family to get the results back. However, when they did come back, they must’ve been a relief to the whole family. They confirmed that it was indeed George’s remains that were buried in the basement. “The DNA was extremely well preserved within the skeletal remains, even after nearly 60 years,” Michael Caplan, the medical examiner, told the media in an interview.
Eyewitness News ABC7NY via YouTube
The family finally had answers. However, just as what happened with the disappearance became clear, other questions began to emerge, such as whether foul play was involved and, if so, who was to blame.
The Family Breathes a Sigh of Relief
While everyone was happy to finally know what happened to their father, Mike was understandably more relieved than the rest. “I took a chance. I could have done all this and found nothing, and then I would have had a whole basement in a mess,” he said during an interview with the media. “I have a basement in a mess. But I’m so glad we found what we found. It gives my family peace of mind.”
Eyewitness News ABC7NY via YouTube
Throughout everything, the family, especially Mike’s sons, came together to help Mike in his search to find out what really happened to George and put the family mystery to rest.
Answering New Questions
The medical examiner alerted the police to what they found when examining George’s remains, and it shouldn’t have come as a shock to anyone at this point that George had been murdered. After all, his body had been dumped and covered back up with dirt, meaning someone had to have at least known that he was buried down there. The cause of death was blunt force trauma to the head.
Eyewitness News ABC7NY via YouTube
Knowing that George had been murdered probably wasn’t shocking to the Carroll family, but that also raised the thorny issue of who was responsible for their father’s murder.
The Psychic’s Version of Events
While the news that George had died due to blunt force trauma may have surprised some in the community, Mike had already heard this theory before. When he had consulted with the psychic, he had been told that his father was struck with a pipe to the head, and that was how he’d passed away. “She informed me it was a pipe, that he was buried after being struck in the head with a pipe,” He told the New York Post.
Eyewitness News ABC7NY via YouTube
Whether it was just a lucky guess or the psychic’s genuine inference is not really all that important. Mike already had an idea as to what had happened before the bones were discovered.
The ‘Story Behind the Story’
While everyone was probably understandably curious as to who was responsible for George’s death, Mike and the rest of the family took this time to grieve a bit. Still, Mike knew that there was more work to be done. “There’s so much unfinished business here. There’s a story behind the story behind the story,” Mike said in an interview with News 12. However, for now, that story would need to wait.
Eyewitness News ABC7NY via YouTube
Mike had just wrapped up literally decades of speculation and curiosity about what really happened to George, and everyone in the family needed to rest for a bit.
Police Leads as to What Happened
While Mike and the rest of the Carroll family took a break, the police continued their investigation, but there was a big problem. Everyone who might have information as to what happened was now dead. Richard had died in 2018, and he had been one of the people the police wanted to speak with the most, according to the Washington Post. However, his entering the picture so soon after George’s disappearance did seem a little suspicious.
Eyewitness News ABC7NY via YouTube
There was also the strange fact that Dorothy had never thought to call the police and report her husband missing, and if Richard did have something to do with the whole thing, then that certainly implicated Dorothy as well, right?
The Carroll Family’s Thoughts
Considering there weren’t any obvious avenues to finding out who murdered George, the Carroll family children decided that it was best not to speculate about what happened to their father. After all, it seemed likely that they would never know for certain, and pointing fingers at someone who wasn’t around to defend themselves didn’t seem very productive. For Mike, finding his father’s remains and laying him to rest was enough.
Eyewitness News ABC7NY via YouTube
“I feel great that my dad has finally gotten out of that nasty hole,” he said. He finally had some solace in solving the mystery of his father’s disappearance.
Other Possible Leads
The police were in a tough bind. Their two main suspects were dead, and other avenues of questioning seemed like longshots at best. If it wasn’t Dorothy or Richard who committed the murder, then maybe it was someone else who lived nearby. However, most of the people who had lived there when George was alive were either long deceased or they and their families had moved out of the neighborhood.
Eyewitness News ABC7NY via YouTube
“Justice passed when we dug it up because we just interrupted the perfect crime. They almost got away with it,” Mike said in an interview with the New York Post.
A New Chapter for the Carroll Family
It’s hard to overstate just how important it was for the Carroll family to find George’s remains. For decades, his disappearance had hung over his children’s heads like a rain cloud. For Mike, finding his dad was enough, and he and his children could finally move on with their lives. “I tell my kids… we hit a grand slam in the bottom of the ninth, two outs,” he said.
Eyewitness News ABC7NY via YouTube
The alternative was living out the rest of his life, always wondering what happened to his father when the answer was really right below his feet the whole time.
Steven Expresses His Joy at Finding George
Mike wasn’t the only one in the family who was very relieved to have found their father. Steven released a message not long after the remains were found. “I was surprised that he was here the whole time, and it’s wonderful. The grandkids can now say they found Grandpa,” he said. He, his children, and the rest of the family had wondered all their lives what really happened, he added.
Eyewitness News ABC7NY via YouTube
Steven was around five years old when George disappeared, so while he didn’t know his father very well, he may have had some brief memories of him and what he looked like.
Still Wondering Who Murdered His Father
Despite being glad that the remains were finally uncovered, Steven also expressed his disgust at whoever it was that was responsible for George’s death. “How does something like this happen? How do you get rid of someone and bury them in the basement and pour cement on them without anyone knowing?” he said in an interview with Newsday. He has more than one good point here, and it’s still perplexing that someone could get away with something like that.
Eyewitness News ABC7NY via YouTube
We’re sure that as time goes on, not even the official police report will satisfy some, considering it’s unlikely they’ll be able to say for sure what happened.
Putting George Carroll to Rest
The Carroll children organized a funeral for their father not long after the examination of the remains was finished. George was buried at the Calverton National Cemetary and given a veteran’s service to honor his time in Korea. “I want him to be a soldier. I want him to get what he needs,” Mike told the media. Thanks to him, his father was finally given a proper burial decades after he’d passed.
Eyewitness News ABC7NY via YouTube
And while the mystery of their father’s death will probably never be solved for certain, the Carroll children can rest knowing that they did everything they could to give their father the honor he deserved.
Insider ALDI Facts That Will Change Your Shopping Experience
Mika Ayla
Have you ever wondered how ALDI manages to offer low prices without compromising on quality? This supermarket chain has been making waves in the grocery world with its no-frills approach and bargain deals. But with so many products to offer, it can be overwhelming to know what to buy and what to avoid. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered! We’ll reveal insider tips to help you navigate the aisles of ALDI so you feel like a pro on your next grocery shopping trip.
Don’t Buy Beef Here
Listen up, savvy shoppers, we’ve uncovered the truth about the meat selection at ALDI that the big box grocer doesn’t want you to know. While it may seem like a deal, their beef and chicken options are lacking in quality. Don’t be fooled by the seemingly low prices, as their meat prices are often no better than their competitors and can even be more expensive. In particular, the cost of ground beef here is through the roof.
Instead, hold out for sales or opt for another meat provider to avoid breaking the bank.
Score Big With ALDI’s 50% Off Secret
Ready for some knowledge that’ll score you big-time brownie points with your little ones? Look no further than ALDI’s secret starchy deal! With just five days left until the expiration date, ALDI knows exactly how to catch the eye of savvy parents with a sweet discount of 50% off on all bread and baked goods. It’s the perfect opportunity to snag those must-have ingredients for your child’s lunch without breaking the bank.
So why pay full price when you can get a tasty steal with ALDI’s hidden secret? Happy lunch packing!
The Hot Deals Section Has Major Discounts
When going grocery shopping at ALDI, head straight to the Hot Deals section first! This insider tip could save you a fortune with discounts that will make your wallet jump for joy. The Hot Deals section has tons of products that are on sale for the day, and who wouldn’t want to score on a sale? So apparently, it’s time to say goodbye to impulsive spending and hello to savvy shopping.
Workers have even shared that the best days to hit the Hot Deals section are Sundays and Mondays to score the biggest discounts.
An Array of Unconventional and Intriguing Food Finds
With the likes of Trader Joe’s, ALDI has a knack for presenting some extraordinary, miscellaneous products that capture attention and excite curiosity. Have you ever wondered how you’d be able to resist purchasing the Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix? Well, with ALDI’s selection of unique finds, that is just the tip of the iceberg! They have all the weirdest and most fun selections, from pickle-flavored popcorn to banana and blueberry hummus.
If you’re looking for unique food items, this is the place to go. No doubt, you’ll find something new.
ALDI Is Known for Their Award-Winning and Affordble Rosé
It’s hard to imagine a supermarket chain being recognized for producing an award-winning wine, but ALDI’s Exquisite Collection Cotes des Provence Rosé has accomplished just that. Retailing at a mere $8, this bottle of Rosé has made a remarkable impression at the International Wine Challenge by earning a Great Value Award. Although some may doubt the quality of wine produced by a supermarket, the ALDI Rosé can leave one pleasantly surprised.
It seems like this grocery store chain can seriously do it all! So, next time you’re browsing the grocery store aisles, be sure to grab a bottle of this sensational bargain.
Checkout51 Is the Ultimate App for Extra Cashback
Do you want to know the secret to save more money on your grocery bills? It’s called Checkout51, and it’s the ultimate cashback app. Checkout51 takes your frugal game to the next level and stretches your budget further than ever before. There’s no more clipping coupons or tedious searches for promo codes – it’s all done seamlessly and effortlessly, allowing you to save big bucks while shopping like a boss.
With all these coupons at your fingertips, you can stock up on your essentials and treat yourself to a few splurges. It’s a must for any avid ALDI shoppers.
The Inside Scoop on Snagging Discounted Delights Before They’re Gone
If you’re not on the lookout for ALDI’s specialty products, then you’re missing out on some truly epic steals. The low-cost giant’s shelves are home to unique items under the name “Aldi Finds.” Sure, you may think they’re just novelty products with mediocre quality, but you’d be surprised to find out they are actually great value for money. There’s one thing you need to remember, though: they don’t last forever.
So, if you’ve been meaning to score an “Aldi Find”, don’t hesitate for a second because if you do, it may be gone forever!
Saving a Fortune on Baby Essentials
Becoming a parent can feel like diving headfirst into a financial black hole. But what if we told you there’s a secret hack to save you over $1,200 a year? ALDI’s Little Journey baby line is a game-changer for newbie parents on a budget. From top-quality diapers to gentle wipes and nourishing formulas, their affordable prices will have you wondering how you ever considered splurging on pricey alternatives anywhere else.
Who knew that this store could be your one-stop shop for not only produce and pantry essentials but everything you need for your baby?
This Cat Litter Is Cheaper Than Most Other Brands
Cat lovers, beware: Choosing the wrong cat litter can harm your furry friend and leave you with a big mess. We’ve uncovered the dirty truth about ALDI’s cat litter, and it’s not pretty. Despite its cheap price tag, the dust from this litter can wreak havoc on your home, and the small granules can lead to a trail of litter being tracked all over your home. However, for some, this isn’t a concern.
If budget is your top priority, then this may just be the cat litter for you, as it’s usually cheaper than competing brands!
The Best Time to Shop Is Wednesday Morning
Looking for the best bargain deals on fresh produce and seasonal products? Then gear up for Wednesday mornings at ALDI stores! Why settle for average groceries when you can grab the freshest and most affordable products by cracking the code? Wednesdays are the magic day at ALDI, where everything is restocked and refilled to ensure a quality shopping experience for customers. It’s the ultimate hack to find the juiciest fruits, ripe veggies, and premium quality items.
So, be the early bird and reach there right after doors open on Wednesdays to secure the freshest goodies.
ALDI’s Gluten-Free Goodies
Looking for affordable gluten-free snacks that won’t compromise flavor? Look no further than ALDI’s liveGfree line of goodies! Whether you’re gluten-intolerant or prefer to avoid it, liveGfree’s products won’t disappoint. Sometimes, it can be really difficult to find gluten-free products, so a whole line dedicated to gluten-free food is fantastic! Most people don’t know that it’s their own brand, too. So, if you’re searching for gluten-free, ALDI has got it.
A grocery store chain with a commitment to affordable gluten-free options is hard to come by. No need to go to specialty stores anymore because they have it all!
“Twice as Nice Guarantee” Return Policy
We’ve got the inside scoop on A LDI’s game-changing return policy. Known as the “Twice as Nice Guarantee,” this killer policy lets you get your money back and replace any item you purchase – yes, even a TV! ALDI stands behind the quality of its products, but they’re all about letting you be the judge. Whether you’re hesitant to try a new product or simply change your mind, they have your back.
With ALDI’s killer return policy, you’ll feel like the boss and never have to settle for anything less than the best quality.
The Not-So-Savory Verdict on Aldi’s Yogurt
ALDI, known for affordable yet high-quality products, has been struggling to get it right with its yogurt line. Disappointing customer reviews have highlighted the unpalatable taste, particularly an overly sweet flavor profile that failed to appeal to discerning taste buds. With one commentator expressing how her kids avoided the brand altogether, it seems their yogurt has lost the touch that it once had. Most will tell you to skip the yogurt and opt for other items there.
While the low cost is an attraction, flavor matters just as much. Will Aldi make changes and live up to its reputation, or be content with subpar yogurt? Only time will tell.
Customers Complain About ALDI’s Dish Soap
Many customers have raised concerns about a product that’s doing the opposite of what it’s intended for. One disgruntled user shared their disappointment with the dishwashing detergent gel, stating that it leaves cloudy marks on their glasses and plates and spots on their silverware. Countless other customers have voiced similar complaints, leaving the product’s reputation tarnished. Although ALDI has major deals on other products, this dishwashing detergent is one to steer clear of.
When shopping at ALDI, you need to know the best products to buy and the ones you should avoid.
Budget-Friendly Toiletry Picks
Aldi is a haven for cost-savvy consumers, and their affordable range of personal care essentials is no exception. Don’t mistake the low price tag for poor quality, as their extensive selection of razors, shampoos, and lotions provide the same premium feel at a fraction of the cost. These budget-friendly finds from ALDI not only save you a few extra bucks but also offer uncompromising standards that other pricier products boast of.
Elevate your self-care game with Aldi’s cheap yet high-quality toiletry collection!
Small Appliances Might Not Be Worth the Price
As frugal shoppers, we know Aldi is the holy grail for groceries, but what about their small appliances? In a similar sense to budget lawn equipment, they may look tempting with their low price tags, but let’s face it – you get what you pay for. ALDI’s selection of coffee makers and slow cookers are notorious for breaking down easily and delivering subpar performance compared to their more expensive counterparts.
Don’t get us wrong, ALDI is a fantastic source for pantry staples and baking supplies. But when it comes to small appliances, the cheaper prices may come at a cost.
ALDI Takes Unique Food Options to the Next Level With Frozen Microwavable Sushi
Sushi lovers everywhere can’t seem to agree on whether or not frozen sushi is a good idea. Add Aldi’s version to the mix, and the controversy rages on. Raw fish should never be cooked in a microwave, and here’s why. Not only can microwaving alter the taste and texture of the sushi, but it can also harbor dangerous bacteria. Consumers are warned against trying to nuke frozen sushi – even for a few seconds.
So the question remains: why mess with something as delicious and delicate as raw fish? ALDI has plenty of yummy treats, but this one is debatable.
Bring Your Own Bags or Buy a Reusable One
Are you tired of overspending on groceries? Well, here’s a little secret: bringing your own bags to ALDI can help you save a bundle! While it may seem like a hassle, it’s all a part of the Aldi shopping experience. That’s because they actually charge for every bag you use. While it may seem annoying, it’s just one way they’re able to maintain those super-low prices. And if you happen to forget your bags at home, don’t fret!
They sell reusable tote bags, so you can buy one in case you forgot yours at home. Who doesn’t want to help the planet by using reusable bags instead of plastic ones?
You May Want to Buy Everything Here but the Chips
Potato chips are undoubtedly a classic favorite for many, being an ultimate salty and satisfying snack. However, Aldi’s Clancy’s brand chips don’t quite meet the standards that make this treat such a pleasure to consume. While salty and crunchy, these chips lack the crucial element that counts – flavor. This shortfall of Clancy’s chips could explain why the brand does not sit atop the charts as one of the most popular and beloved options in the snacking world.
If you’re in the mood for some satisfying potato chips, it may be wise to choose a different brand altogether.
Save Money Buy Shopping the Perimeter of the Store
When it comes to saving money at ALDI, there are a few insider tips and tricks that can make a significant difference. By sticking to the store’s perimeter, you can keep your grocery bill low while still stocking up on essentials like bread, milk, and eggs. The secret lies in avoiding the tempting center aisles filled with processed and unhealthy snacks that can quickly add up to your bill and tempt you.
Instead, start your shopping journey at the perimeter and move through the store methodically.
Why Aldi’s Sandwich Bags Fall Short
Aldi’s resealable bags are subpar in quality for a variety of reasons. These bags are notorious for breaking apart too easily, rendering them useless and leaving their contents exposed to the environment. What’s even more alarming is the persistent odor many customers have reported after using these bags. The foul smell is off-putting and can impact the freshness of the stored items. ALDI is usually great for most things, but sandwich bags are not its forte.
All in all, it may be wise to seek out a more reliable brand for your resealable bag needs.
The Real Scoop on Aldi Clothing
Looking for fashionable clothing that doesn’t break the bank? You might have considered checking out Aldi’s clothing selection. But hold up – before you head to the checkout line, let’s delve into what consumers really have to say about this low-cost fashion line. While Aldi’s clothing prices might seem too good to be true, don’t be fooled. Reviews suggest that the quality is surprisingly decent and undoubtedly worth the price.
However, don’t expect every single item to be a slam dunk. As with any discount retailer, some pieces are definitely hit-or-miss.
99 Cents Avocados Save the Day
The avocado frenzy is about to take an exciting turn. As prices of the coveted Hass avocados continue to rise, it’s hard to come across avocados we can actually afford. But that’s where ALDI comes into play! ALDI has joined the avocado mania by selling extra-large avocados at an astonishing 99 cents each. That’s an unheard-of price, especially for premium large avocados. They’ve genuinely set a new standard in the avocado game.
We can all rest assured that ALDI has our back with the avocado deal of the century. But there are so many more insider tips to learn, so keep scrolling.
Lawn Equipment May Be Cheap but the Quality Isn’t Great
Looking to spruce up your garden? Aldi’s may seem like the ultimate one-stop-shop with everything from planters to rakes at affordable prices, but here’s what they don’t tell you – the durability is subpar at best. While it’s tempting to save a few bucks, investing in quality lawn equipment is key if you want it to last for years. Don’t be swayed by all the flashy advertising or low prices.
Aldi’s lawn equipment is not worth the short-term savings. Save yourself the hassle and splurge on something that will truly last.
Get More Bang for Your Buck by Buying Smaller Quantities
In today’s economy, finding cost-effective solutions is paramount. Both Aldi’s and Costco offer exceptional bargains, yet choosing between them can prove challenging. While ALDI appeals to consumers seeking affordability even when buying small amounts, it doesn’t always measure up in terms of wholesale buying. For this reason, it’s more beneficial to shop at Costco when buying en masse. But when you’re buying in smaller quantities, ALDI has the best deals.
We know the secrets of shopping smart, so stick to ALDI for sales and smaller grocery hauls! Hang in there because more insider tips are about to be spilled.
They Have a Nutrition Advisory Council
As a health-conscious store, ALDI knows how important it is to live a healthy lifestyle. For customers who want to adopt heartier habits, ALDI’s Advisory Council of Nutrition Experts is dedicated to providing healthy eating suggestions. Additionally, their in-house brand offers products free from harmful oils, synthetic colors, and MSG, giving consumers more peace of mind with each purchase. For those who want to live healthier, ALDI is the place to go.
Their commitment to offering healthy products and expert advice is second to none! What other grocery stores have nutrition experts?
The ALDI-Instacart Hack That Completely Changes Grocery Shopping
Do you ever get in those moods where there’s no food in the fridge, and you know you need to desperately take a trip to the grocery store? But for whatever reason, you can’t seem to get off the couch and make the journey. Well, when you’re in those moods, you can actually have your groceries come to you! Aldi has a service with Aldi where you can get your groceries delivered to your door!
Simply grab your phone, scroll through the virtual aisles, and get ready to relax on your couch.
Insider Tip for La Croix Lovers
Attention all La Croix lovers: it’s time to let you in on a secret that will fulfill all your wildest fizzy water dreams. Aldi has your back and understands your love for La Croix. So, as a part of their Aldi Finds program, they actually sell a variety of 24-packs of this tantalizing beverage for only $7.99. No need to splurge on other brands anymore because you can find them at Aldi’s without burning a hole in your wallet.
Don’t be fooled by the fruity taste of this beloved seltzer; the price tag alone is enough to make any budget-conscious shopper jump for joy.
Disappointing Toilet Paper Deal
As budget-conscious consumers flock to Aldi, insiders reveal that not all bargains are created equal. Despite Aldi’s reputation for affordable yet quality products, insiders say that toilet paper isn’t one of them. While the paper’s quality isn’t necessarily subpar, many insist it isn’t worth the price tag. It’s probably best to check out other chains for better value and get a bang for your buck, at least when it comes to toilet paper.
If you’re heading to Aldi for a stock-up, make sure to steer clear of the toilet paper and follow the insiders’ tip.
Reconsider Buying Fruits and Veggies at ALDI
As consumers, we all want the best value for our hard-earned cash. And if you’re like most shoppers, you might think Aldi’s unbeatable prices make it a great destination for produce. Think again! The reality is that Aldi’s low prices are no accident. Instead, they can often indicate a looming expiration date, squishy flesh, and covert rot lurking beneath a glossy facade! Don’t get us wrong; sometimes their produce isn’t that bad.
But most of the time the produce is not the best. Instead, opt for its pantry items, snacks, and toiletries.
An Attempt to Compete With the Big Brand Cereals
Aldi has been on the move in recent years, introducing new brands of cereal to compete with well-known lines like Honey Nut Cheerios and Lucky Charms. Their packaging is similar enough that it’s easy to confuse them with the big names. But once you take a bite, you’ll realize that the taste doesn’t match up. Their goal is to provide affordable options to customers without sacrificing taste, or at least that’s what they attempted to do.
But in the battle of cereals, it seems that the big brands are still winning. Though, Aldi’s cereal is worth a try if you’re looking for a cheaper option with a familiar feel.
Aldi’s Soda Brands Fail to Impress
Much like Aldi’s cereal offerings, their line of soft drinks falls short in terms of taste and quality. Despite resembling Coca-Cola, the “Cola” from Aldi’s store brand will fail to meet your taste expectations. It’s a shame that these off-brand beverages are unable to capture the essence of their more popular counterparts, as customers who expect a similar experience are bound to be disappointed. Though now you know, it’s something to avoid when shopping here!
Aldi’s attempts at imitating classic flavors have yet to hit the mark, but there are plenty of other things you can find that are actually good.
Satisfy Your Cravings for Ancient Grains
Sometimes, it can be hard to find a variety of grains to cook with that’s not just rice. From couscous to quinoa, bulgur, and more, there are tons of grains that health enthusiasts and those who enjoy cooking might be searching for but can’t find at regular grocery stores. Any grain you can imagine, ALDI probably has it. And the best part is that it will be affordable and beat prices at any other store.
Whenever you’re looking to spruce up your pantry cabinet and add something new to your meals, search the grain aisle.
Ask for Cardboard Boxes to Pack Groceries
If you happen to forget your reusable grocery bag and don’t want to spend money on another one, there’s no need to panic. Simply find a nearby cardboard shipping box and repurpose it to hold your food items. These boxes can often be found all around ALDI stores. With this simple and practical solution, you’ll never have to worry about paying for a bag again while taking an eco-friendly approach.
Another pro tip is to use these boxes for moving! You can go to your local ALDI and ask for all the leftover cardboard boxes they have, and then you have packing boxes for free.
Their Butter Isn’t as Tasty but It Is Cheaper
You may think you’re saving money by going for a cheaper brand of butter, but you could be doing more harm than good. Butter is a crucial ingredient that impacts the texture and flavor of every dish you cook, and choosing the wrong brand can result in a disastrous culinary experience. You’ve heard of Aldi brand butter, and sure, it may seem like a decent substitute for other, more expensive options.
If you don’t mind a slightly less tasty butter and want to save on butter that costs a bit less than most other butter, then this is the choice for you.
Some of Their Coffee Falls Short
When it comes to coffee, Aldi boasts an impressive selection of brands. However, not all of them deliver the same quality of flavor. While Daily Basics is undoubtedly Aldi’s most budget-friendly option, it is far from their most delicious. For a mere 17 cents a pound, it may seem like a bargain, but this coffee simply doesn’t measure up when it comes to taste. It might be best to leave Daily Basics behind in search of something better.
Savvy coffee drinkers seeking a richer, more flavorful experience will want to invest a bit more in one of Aldi’s other brands.
The Secret Trick to Avoid Losing Shopping Carts
Have you ever found yourself wandering aimlessly through a crowded parking lot, frantically searching for a shopping cart that seems to have gone rogue? Well, here’s another insight that makes Aldi a top-notch grocery chain. The carts are locked up in one space, so you never have to go searching for one. You just insert a coin, and it unlocks the carts, and when you return it, you get the coin back! It’s really that simple.
Not sure if you have a quarter on hand? Don’t worry; cashiers are always willing to lend one.
A Speedy Checkout Experience
In an effort to keep prices affordable, ALDI has opted not to hire employees to bag groceries. This means customers must bag their own purchases, but the good news is that the checkout process is efficient due to the multiple barcodes on ALDI’s products. There are so many barcodes that no matter what way you scan the item, it will recognize it and charge it rather than fumbling for a minute searching for the one barcode.
It might seem like a hassle to bag your own groceries, but it’s a small price to pay for budget-friendly shopping.
Skip the Name Brands
Occasionally, Aldi will feature popular brand-name products like Coca-Cola on their shelves. However, these items are not priced competitively when compared to nearby supermarkets. Therefore, it’s more cost-effective to bypass these name brands and stick with Aldi’s high-quality options. By opting for Aldi’s private-label products, shoppers can get more bang for their buck without sacrificing taste or quality. So why pay more for well-known labels when you can save big at Aldi?
At Aldi, the real bargains can be found on the shelves with their in-house products.
The Mysterious Link Between ALDI and Trader Joe’s
Have you ever found yourself thinking that ALDI and Trader Joe’s share a striking resemblance? As it turns out, there’s more to it than meets the eye. Believe it or not, these stores have a hidden connection that only a few savvy shoppers are aware of. It’s a tale as old as time – two brothers who split due to “business differences.” But in this case, the siblings run two independent grocery chains, ALDI and Trader Joe’s.
Allegedly, Trader Joe’s and Aldi initially split into two different distinct companies because of a dispute on whether they should offer cigarettes in-store!
Cool Facts About History and Culture That Made Us Look at the World Differently
Jason Pasos
Nowadays, it’s easy to feel like we know everything about our world. We’re constantly bombarded with news and have access to infinite information thanks to the internet, streaming sites, and more. But luckily, Earth is such a wondrous place that there are still plenty of rarely-discussed facts regarding everything from history and pop culture to nature. So we’ve gathered up the most curious truths that might be hard to believe are actually real. That way, next time you’re at a dinner party, you can be that person who brings the fun facts.
Finland’s Speeding Tickets Are Based On a Person’s Income
In Finland, speeding tickets are based on what a person makes. That means some millionaires end up paying over $100,000 when caught speeding. This might come as a surprise to a lot of people, but it makes a lot of sense if you think about it. For example, many people and companies simply disregard laws because they consider fines the cost of doing business or just not costly enough to care. But calculating that cost based on someone’s income is a game-changer for that loophole.
Predictably, those who’ve been fined and paid tickets in the five-figure category have railed against Finland’s system. However, that might just be proof that it’s working.
Last Time Liechtenstein Was at War, They Sent 80 Soldiers and Returned With 81
The tiny nation of Liechtenstein isn’t exactly known for its military, but the army does have one quirky historical distinction. The last time they went to war, Liechtenstein sent out 80 soldiers and returned with 81. They’d picked up an Italian soldier whom they befriended and who wanted to live in Lichtenstein. The entire thing happened during the Austro-Prussian War in 1866, and the army was sent to guard a pass between Austria and Italy.
However, there apparently wasn’t much to do there, and the men ended up smoking, drinking, enjoying the scenery, and making friends. Today, Lichenstein has no army as it was disbanded in 1868.
Betty White Gave This Black Dancer Extra Airtime After Receiving Backlash From Racists
Betty White was extremely popular before she passed away in 2021. However, not many people know that she was once criticized for having a Black performer on her show in 1954. The performer’s name was Arthur Duncan, and he was a tap dancer. However, this was still during the time of segregation in the U.S. After being criticized, White told people, “I’m sorry. Live with it.” And she went on to give Duncan even more airtime.
Unfortunately, the show was canceled not long after that, but it’s still good to know that Betty White had always been the same and never took anything from anyone.
The “Cemetery Angel” Used Her Money to Bury Strangers Taken by AIDS
Ruth Coker Burks was an ordinary woman from Hot Springs, Arkansas, except for one thing. During the height of the AIDS epidemic, she cared for gay men using her own salary and gave around 40 of them burials in her family cemetery. She eventually earned the name the “cemetery angel.” It should also be noted that this was a time of extreme stigma, especially surrounding AIDS.
Many medical professionals weren’t even looking into what might be causing the epidemic, much less searching for a treatment or offering patients care.
Students Invented A Machine That Turns Trash Into Phone Cases
High School students in Sicily invented the vending machine that grinds down plastic and turns it into phone cases using a 3D printer. The teens wanted to encourage others to be more environmentally friendly and recycle their plastic. We’re not too sure when you might be seeing one of these on your corner street, but the team won a number of awards, and the project originally debuted in 2016.
The whole machine is fairly simple and basically chips plastic containers into tiny pellets so that they can then be used by the 3D printer and turned into cases.
When Freddie Mercury Literally Put the Spotlight on a Prejudice Heckler
Freddie Mercury and Queen were performing in the 1970s when they heard someone yelling a slur out in the crowd. The man was yelling, “you f*****g poof,” which is a gay slur towards Mercury. The singer stopped and ordered the stage crew to shine a light on the man in the middle of the crowd. Mercury then asked the man to “say it again, darling.” The heckler, of course, just stood there and didn’t say anything else.
Pete Still / Contributor via Getty Images
It wasn’t the band’s only confrontation with hecklers, and during the 1980s, some people threw razorblades onstage, which caused them to stop touring the U.S.
Wild Elephants Held a Vigil at Their Rescuer’s Home After He Passed
Lawrence Anthony, sometimes called “the elephant whisperer,” was a revered conservationist that abandoned a career in real estate and insurance to protect animals. His list of achievements was long, but among them was convincing feuding war criminals to protect northern white rhinos in their territories, convincing many African communities to set up reserves to attract tourists, and famously riding into Baghdad on the heels of the U.S. invasion to care for what animals remained at the zoo. His work at the zoo attracted both U.S. soldiers and former Iraqi soldiers to volunteer their time to help.
When he passed away in 2012, some outlets reported that a small herd of elephants he’d rescued years ago and cared for ever since had visited his home and held a vigil for two days. Elephants are known to mourn their own when they pass.
The Millionaire Who Buried His Bentley for His Afterlife
When a millionaire announces that he wants to be buried with his Bentley, the odds are many people will take issue with that. However, one millionaire made just that announcement to make a point. Whenever people began expressing their outrage, he shot back that it was the same as being buried with your organs. In other words, he was trying to encourage people to become organ donors and potentially save another life.
When asked about his Bentley announcement, he said: “People bury things that are much more valuable than cars, and nobody seems to care.”
This Stray Dog Became Hyundai’s Mascot
Today, this pup named Tuscon Prime is the mascot of a Hyundai dealership in Brazil. But, he used to be a stray until the dealership owner decided to let him in one day and give him some food when it was raining. The staff instantly fell in love with him, as did the customers. So, the dealership decided to make him their official mascot and even gave him a little badge with his face on it.
According to reports, his job includes guarding the entrance and interacting with customers, the latter of which he’s apparently really fond of. He’s become so beloved that he might also appear in a national ad for Hyundai in Brazil sometime soon.
Harper Lee’s Friends Financially Supported Her so That She Could Write
Today, To Kill A Mockingbird is a classroom staple that teaches children about justice, racism, and youth. However, it was almost never written. In fact, the only reason it was written was that Harper Lee’s friends came to her one Christmas and told her that they were funding a year off for her to “write whatever you please.” They supported her with a year’s wages while she worked away on her novel.
At the time, Lee was working as a ticket agent for British Overseas Airways Corporation and was having trouble finding the time to actually write. The book went on to sell 30 million copies worldwide.
German Soldiers Are Allowed to Disobey Immoral Orders
Soldiers in the German army are allowed to disobey orders. And while many militaries out there encourage their troops to think for themselves and disobey orders they believe to be against international law or that might be considered highly immoral, Germany has a pretty good record of actually exonerating the troops who disobey. The policy was instituted after WWII when many claimed they were just “following orders” under Nazi rule.
In the past, when soldiers were punished for disobeying, civilian courts have found that some were merely exercising their constitutional rights.
These Two Thieves Turned Their Victim Into the Police
There apparently still is honor among thieves. In England, two thieves once robbed a man’s house and stole his laptop. However, they found child pornography on the computer after they opened it up. So, they took the device to the police and informed them where they obtained the laptop. The police arrested the man, and he ended up getting around three years in prison. The judge only gave the two men who robbed him 12 months of community service in light of their good deeds.
We just wish we could’ve been at the station when they walked in and explained their story.
Wolves and Ravens Are Actually Very Close Friends
If you’ve ever seen a nature documentary about wolves, then odds are there were some ravens around a recent kill. Of course, ravens are usually everywhere, but they actually share a special bond with wolves. When they come across a kill, they’ll make noise to attract wolves, who will, in turn, open up the hide and provide carrion for the ravens. However, this might not be the most surprising aspect of the two animals’ bond.
Researchers have observed ravens interacting and playing with wolf pups and suspect they might develop special bonds with certain wolves in a pack. Many cultures have long referred to ravens as “wolf birds.”
Robin Williams Saved Sharon Osbourne’s Life
Sharon Osbourne was undergoing treatment for colon cancer in 2002. However, she eventually ran into a rough patch during treatment in which she was reportedly unable to get out of bed for a week. It was so bad that her husband feared she’d just given up. So, he invited Robin Williams over to cheer everyone up, and it worked so well that Sharon went back to treatment the next day.
Jamie McCarthy / Staff via Getty Images
Of course, she survived, and now she helps others battling colon cancer. She even established her own program to help others who find themselves in the same place she once did.
American POW Sent Messages Home by Blinking in Morse Code
American officials suspected that the North Vietnamese were torturing POWs during the Vietnam war when Admiral Jeremiah Denton Jr.’s interview was broadcast, but they had nothing to point to. However, during his interview, which the North Vietnamese aired as a propaganda piece, the admiral was blinking weirdly. It turned out he was blinking in morse code and spelled out the word “torture.” U.S. Naval Intelligence was fittingly the first to crack the code.
He was held for around eight years, during which time he was repeatedly beaten and held in solitary confinement. He went on to become a senator later in life.
200 Women Jointly Committed Murder in an Indian Courtroom
In 2004, 200 women from a local community gathered at the courthouse while a man was being taken inside by police. The man was a local gang leader who’d ordered countless rapes and killings in order to keep the community “in line.” Despite dozens of complaints to the police, they failed to act, and when they did, the man was always granted bail. They only took the man into custody for his own safety after community resentment eventually boiled over.
So his victims decided to take justice into their own hands. The 200 women began attacking the man with knives and chili powder inside the courthouse, and the police ran for safety when they figured out what was happening. Afterward, all of the women jointly claimed responsibility for the murder.
This 9-Year-Old Completed a 24-Hour Navy SEALs Race
Milla Bizzotto is a 9-year-old girl who began training for a marathon after she was bullied at school. But, she wasn’t just training for any marathon. She began training for something called the Battlefrog Extreme, a 24-hour race that Navy SEALs designed. She ran for 36 miles, swam another 5 miles, and went through 36 obstacles over six laps. When she finished, she became the youngest competitor to ever complete the race.
She told people afterward, “I want to set an example and show other kids that they can do or be anything they want.”
Bullies Pranked Her by Nominating Her For Homecoming Queen But It Backfired
In 2012, a group of bullies thought it’d be funny to nominate a girl named Whitney Kropp for homecoming queen. However, they didn’t actually expect her to win and just did the entire thing as a prank. But after word spread through the town, local residents and students stepped in and offered a wave of support, making t-shirts, signs, and even a Facebook Page. Kropp went on to win and received her award in a stadium full of fans.
She and her family also received countless emails from others around the country sharing their stories after Kropp’s made national news.
This Rare Rainbow Gemstone Is Only Found in One Place
A gemstone known as rainbow lattice sunstone might just be one of the rarest in the world. It’s only found in a tiny area of Australia’s Northern Territory, and it’s known for its weird lattice coloring. It was discovered as recently as 1985. Production just recently began to scale up, and one of the original finders still has rights to the sight, which is probably the only one in the world.
The gemstone is also reportedly very difficult to work with as it usually contains a lot of cracks, and finding larger, clean pieces are exceptionally difficult.
Ramsay Hired a Prison Cook After Losing to Him in a Chopping Competition
Gordan Ramsey is known for being demanding in the kitchen, so it might come as a surprise that the Michelin Star chef once lost a contest to a prison cook. After all, prisons aren’t exactly known for their fine dining experiences. But Ramsey once made the mistake of challenging a prison cook to an onion-cutting contest and eventually lost. He was so impressed that he offered the cook a job at one of his restaurants.
Gordon Behind Bars via One Potato Two Potato
We’re not sure what eventually happened to the cook, but Ramsey has a history of giving people second chances, despite his tough demeanor.
Attendance Increases 93% After Students Are Offered Free Laundry Service
Poor attendance is often cited as one of the biggest obstacles in education. So, imagine the surprise at two California schools when attendance jumped by 93% after they began offering low-income students laundry service if they showed up to class. The initiative was part of a program by Whirlpool and saw similar attendance jumps in the 15 other schools that were part of the program. It became so popular that the initiative spread.
Schools from all 50 U.S. states and even countries like Saudi Arabia, Ireland, and South Africa began reaching out to Whirlpool to join the program after the results were released. The United Way and others have since started similar initiatives.
In the 70s, a Minimum Wage Job Got You Through College Debt-Free
It’s no secret that college costs in the U.S. are absurd. However, it wasn’t always like that. As recently as 1978, college students could afford to pay their own tuition just by working a minimum wage job. Oh, how the times have changed. There were a lot of reasons for this, but most just have to do with soaring tuition costs and wages not keeping up with inflation. There’s also something else.
Those minimum wage earners could afford college just by working during the summer. Yeah, so they didn’t even have to work throughout the year to put themselves through college.
Flounders Can Camouflage With Checkerboards
Anyone who fishes will probably tell you that flounders are insanely good at camouflage. They have to be since they don’t swim particularly fast and usually just spend most of their time on sandy bottoms. But their camouflage is so good that they’ll even attempt checkerboard patterns, with a decent amount of success, as shown in this photo. This is because they have special skin cells that can change colors depending on their surroundings and the signals they receive from their brains.
Some flounders are so good at this that they can turn almost translucent in color when they swim toward the surface of the water.
This Man Is Direct Descendent of a 9,100-Year-Old Skeleton
Cheddar Man, a 9,100-year-old resident of Somerset, England, caused quite the commotion when he was first discovered in a cave. His remains were, and still are, the oldest ever found in the U.K. However, scientists probably weren’t expecting to find a direct descendant living only a couple of miles away. In 1997, Scientists proved that a local teacher named Adrian Targett was a direct descendant of Cheddar Man through some 300 generations.
And while the two didn’t seem all that close in appearance when the news first broke, recent photos of Targett show some striking similarities with his stone age ancestor.
Dolphin Spent Over Two Decades Escorting Ships to Safety
Pelorus Jack was a dolphin that escorted ships through the dangerous waters of the French Pass in New Zealand between 1888 and 1912. This was quite odd as Jack was a Risso dolphin, which was and still is incredibly rare in New Zealand. The dolphin quickly made a name for himself and enjoyed surfing the bow waves of the larger ships. Among his notable fans and observers were Mark Twain and English writer Frank T. Bullen.
Ships even sometimes waited for him to appear before making the journey through the sound. However, one day a passenger shot at Jack, and the passengers and crew had to restrain the man, resulting in New Zealand passing a law to protect Jack and other Risso dolphins. Jack never escorted that ship again, and not too long afterward, it sank.
Comedian Accidentally Wins Mr. New York State Title in Heavyweight Competition
Most people spend years of their lives working towards success and still only ever achieve part of what they set out to do. And then you have people like Australian comedian Hamish Blake. Blake entered a bodybuilding competition in New York in 2011 as a joke but ended up winning the entire thing. The reason for it was that he’d entered the heavyweight division, probably expecting the joke to be ridiculous.
However, he found out he was the only contestant in the division, which essentially made him Mr. New York State 2011 in the Heavyweight division.
This Teacher Wore The Same Picture Day Outfit for 40 Years
If you were anything like us during school, you probably weren’t even aware it was picture day half the time. You probably just went to school and began panicking because you thought it was just another normal day and didn’t make any extra effort to look nice. However, a teacher named Dale Irby apparently never forgot when it was picture day. In fact, he remembered for 40 years.
The world knows this because Irby took all 40 photos in the same outfit, and luckily someone posted them all online. Sure, you could just put 40 years of picture day photos side by side, but there’s something so satisfying about someone wearing the same thing for all 40 photos.
Shipwreck 300 Feet Deep Becomes Visible After Lake Michigan Ice Melts
Sometimes Lake Michigan gets so clear after seasonal ice melts that it’s possible to spot wrecks as deep as 300 feet from the air. A notably clear season happened most in 2015, and the U.S. Coast Guard posted a number of photos to social media from their flights. The coast guard said they always spot a couple of wrecks, but not as many as they saw after winter that year.
It’s worth noting that this would happen more often if it weren’t for the algae blooms and summer sediment, the first of which is partly fueled by fertilizer runoff.
How Toyota Engineers Dramatically Improved Food Bank Wait Times
When Toyota offered to send the New York Food Bank, which supplies 1.5 million people with meals annually, engineers, instead of donations, the head of the Food Bank’s distribution was skeptical. So, he issued them a challenge and told them to shorten the wait time at the soup kitchen. Through the use of “kaizen,” which means continuous improvement in Japanese and has been a staple of the car maker’s philosophy for decades, the engineers were able to shorten wait times from 90 minutes to just 18.
They also helped volunteers cut down packing times from 3 minutes to 11 seconds after Hurricane Sandy and made several other improvements to the New York City Food Bank.
A POW Trolled Captors By Riding Fake Motorcycle
We can’t imagine what it would be like being a POW in any conflict, much less the Korean War. But apparently, it was so boring for one POW, Lt. John Thornton, that he began riding an imaginary motorcycle to roll call every day. He clutched his invisible handlebars and made “vroom vroom” sounds with his mouth while riding to formation twice a day. The guards eventually got tired of his shenanigans and called him into their office, where they confiscated his imaginary motorcycle.
They told him that it was against the rules and regulations. However, his fellow POWs rallied to his side shortly afterward, going to the guards and demanding that they give Thornton back his motorcycle.
Wuhan Nurses Share Photos Post-Coronavirus Shifts
The Coronavirus pandemic hasn’t been fun for anyone. Travel has been limited, the world had to endure lockdowns, and countless jobs have been lost. However, it’s important to keep things in perspective. The pandemic was definitely far worse for some, as these photos from nurses in Wuhan show during what must’ve been grueling shifts battling the coronavirus. Considering Wuhan was ground zero, we can only imagine how difficult it must’ve been to work in healthcare there during the early days of the pandemic.
It’s also striking that some of the marks pictured in the photo are no longer just simple marks but instead have turned into bruises.
Carpenter Secretly Amassed Millions And Then Gave It All Away
An Iowa man named Dale Schroeder had been working at the same carpentry job for 67 years when he passed away in 2005. According to friends and news reports, he only owned two pairs of jeans (one for work and another for church) and a rusty old truck. So, his friends were a bit surprised when Schroeder’s lawyer told them he’d had $3 million in savings and wanted to use it to send Iowa kids to college after he passed.
Before he died, Schroeder told his lawyer that he’d never had a chance to attend college, so he wanted to give others that chance. His $3 million ended up funding the education of 33 students.
Possibly The Most Intelligence Ever Captured In One Photo
The Fifth Solvay Conference of 1927 is probably best remembered for a single photo produced during the conference. It contains names that we primarily associate with revolutionary theories today, such as Marie Curie, Albert Einstein, Niels Bohr, and Erwin Schrödinger. To further put it into perspective, 17 of the 29 people pictured were awarded the Nobel Prize, which is hard to fathom. It’s also worth noting the single woman in the photo, Marie Curie.
Curie studied radioactivity and was the first woman awarded a Nobel Prize in Physics when she won the award with her husband in 1903. She’s also still the only person to ever win a Nobel for two different scientific disciplines.
Paul Rudd And Jeffrey Dean Morgan Jointly Own A Candy Shop
It might come as a bit of a surprise that Paul Rudd and Jeffrey Dean Morgan have owned a candy store together in New York since 2014, but the reason is actually kind of heartwarming. The store is called Samuel’s Sweet Shop, and the two bought it after the owner, who was their friend, passed away, and they decided they wanted it to remain a candy store. But candy isn’t the only goodie they sell there.
The shop reportedly sells really delicious sweets, in addition to drinks like smoothies, coffee, and tea. It also draws in quite a few tourists now.
Student Hackers Turned MIT Building Into a Tetris Game
MIT is known as being one of the premiere schools in the world when it comes to STEM fields. So, it really shouldn’t be a huge surprise that students were able to turn their building into a giant screen and then play Tetris on that screen, but it’s still pretty awesome. The students said the whole thing took them around four years of off-and-on work.
There were also two months when they worked every night from 10 pm to 5 am to turn the Planetary Sciences Department Building into a giant playable screen.
Hippos Can Sleep Underwater
It might come as a surprise for some that hippos actually sleep underwater. After all, you’ve probably rarely seen a video or photo of a hippo taking a nap on the river bank. They’re dangerous places, after all, even for hippos. But, they have a special reflex that allows them to get some rest underwater. The reflex lets them bob up to get some air before gently falling back down.
Despite this pretty amazing and quirky adaptation, hippos still can’t swim. They actually just sort of lumber around underwater and stand on their hind legs if they need to come up for air while awake.
The Origin Of Baby Carrots
If you’re anything like us, you’ve probably always assumed that baby carrots are tiny, less-matured carrots. However, that’s not the case, and the whole concept was invented by a farmer named Mike Yurosek. In 1986, he noticed that he was throwing out 400 tons of damaged or misshapen carrots because supermarkets simply thought they couldn’t sell them. So, armed with only a green bean slicer and potato peeler, Yurosek took matters into his own hands.
He shaved the “misshapen” carrots down into baby carrots, and the idea quickly took off. Today, he’s known as the “father of the baby carrot.”
The Day There Was No News
It’s hard to imagine today; what with 24/7 cable news and social media, but on April 18, 1930, the British public settled into their living rooms, turned on a new little thing called a radio, and prepared to listen to the BBC’s evening news. However, they were met with the words, “Good evening. Today is Good Friday. There is no news.” The BBC then began playing piano music for the rest of the 15-minute segment.
Of course, there probably were things going on that day that might’ve been considered newsworthy, but the BBC had a very different and specific focus back then. And, it’s nice to think of a time when the news didn’t have to put out “content” for the sake of content.
Steven King Sells the Rights to Some of His Stories for $1
Writer Steven King is one of the most successful authors of our age, and a lot of that success has to do with just how prolific he is. He’s released so many stories that he decided he’d sell some of his short stories to film students for $1 so that they could make movies with them. Of course, the contracts are complex and still come with a lot of protection for him, but that’s still really cool, considering how hard it is to break into the film business.
King has dubbed the short stories his “Dollar Babies.” To license a story, all you have to do is go to his website and apply, and many short films have been made through the program since he started it.
What Happens Here Every Veteran’s Day at 11: 11am
The Anthem Veteran’s Memorial in Anthem, Arizona, is a memorial dedicated to all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. And every year at 11:11 on November 11, it perfectly aligns with the sun. The rays cast through the giant obelisks to create an image on the ground. Each pillar represents a different branch of the armed forces, and the image is the seal of the United States.
It’s also worth mentioning that November 11 is Veteran’s Day in the U.S., hence all of the elevens associated with the image and the obelisks.
These Child Stars Are Finally Speaking About How Rough Growing up in Hollywood Can Be
Sarah Schuman
We all wanted to be on TV as kids, but some youngsters actually lived the dream. But was it all it was cracked up to be? It turns out the stories about what it’s really like to grow up in the limelight are often terrible. Nightmare might be more accurate! From lost fortunes to harassment and everything in between, it really wasn’t all fun and games. Check out the honest confessions from your favorite faces, next.
Macaulay Culkin Was Forced to Act
Macaulay Culkin made millions in the Home Alone series. All along, he was being pushed to his success by father Kit Culkin, his manager. Today, he alleges that dad was abusive, and wouldn’t let him rest. Projects were shoved down his throat, no matter the mental cost. He recalls: “I just wanted a little bit of a break. I wanted a summer vacation for the first time in, you know, forever.”