Oddity Central

Oddity Central


The Green Lady of Carroll Gardens Has Been Wearing Only Green for the Last 20 Years

Posted: 30 Nov 2016 04:20 AM PST

For the last 20 years, Elizabeth Eaton Rosenthal, a.k.a. Elizabeth Sweetheart, a fine artist in Brooklyn, New York, has been dressing from head to toe in various shades of green. To her, green is the happiest, most positive color in the world, so she can’t imagine wearing anything else.

‘The Green Lady of Carroll Gardens’, as Elizabeth is most widely known, has always had a thing for experimenting. At one point in her life she wore only 1930s print dresses, before moving on to single colors, like silver, pink, purple, blue and finally green, which she surprisingly never got bored of. Her passion for green started with some home-mixed green nail polish and a neon lime streak in her hair, but it quickly spread to her clothing and her home, as well. Today, she always sports green hair, an attire made up of different hues of green, and most of the things she buys, from towels and skin care products to furniture and appliances, are also green.

elizabeth-sweetheart

Young Entrepreneur Undergoes Plastic Surgery to Look Like Chinese Billionaire Jack Ma

Posted: 30 Nov 2016 02:42 AM PST

Jack Ma, founder of internet giant Alibaba Group, has one of the most recognized faces in China, but he’s not exactly famous for his good looks. Still, that hasn’t stopped on young entrepreneur from spending a small fortune on plastic surgery just so he could look more like the popular billionaire.

Huang Jian, a young man in Shenzhen, claims that he has so far spent around one million yuan ($145,000) on facial plastic surgery, in an effort to make himself look more like Jack Ma. The procedures were done in South Korea, Asia’s premier destination for extreme plastic surgery. Jian says that he is a big fan of China’s second richest man and is undergoing this extreme makeover in the hopes of one day meeting his idol.

look-like-jack-ma

This Japanese Restaurant Chain Is an Introvert’s Paradise

Posted: 30 Nov 2016 01:58 AM PST

If your idea of a good restaurant experience includes a nice conversation and interaction with the waiting staff, then Ichiran Ramen is probably not a place you want to visit. The popular Japanese chain is all about solo dining, taking extraordinary measures to ensure that patrons avoid human interaction as much as possible.

Manabu Yoshitomi, the founder of Ichiran Ramen, came up with the concept for his famous restaurants when he was just a high-school student, after seeing his female friends attempting to cover their mouths when eating ramen. After asking them about it, Yoshitomi discovered that their reluctance to being watched by other people as they slurped noodles was actually a huge barrier to them visiting ramen shops. This information inspired the young man to open a tonkotsu (pork bone) ramen restaurant that offered almost total privacy instead of human interaction.

ichiran-ramen

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8 Best Star Wars Video Games

Posted: 30 Nov 2016 10:19 AM PST

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Star Wars is one of the most successful franchises in the world and it is no surprise considering the fact that it has spawned over ten movies, tons of video games, television series and more. You don't need a heavyweight gaming PC to play most of these titles. There is something for everyone. We've compiled a collection of the 8 Best Star Wars video games across all platforms, be it the PC or any other console. These games have been selling like hotcakes all over the world and it is now time for you to get a piece of the action, to perfectly prepare for ‘Rogue One: A Star Wars Story’ coming out next month.

Star Wars: Battlefront

It would be unfair to start with any other game. Star Wars: Battlefront is the latest addition to the Star Wars video games franchise. One look at the screenshots of this game and you will understand why it has been receiving so much attention. It was referred to as one of the best-looking games of this generation based on its visuals and graphic quality, but was criticized for the lack of content. Overall, playing this one is a great experience and you can buy it for PS4, Xbox One or PC. This game does require a high-end PC with some meaty specs, though.

LEGO Star Wars

The first installment in the LEGO Star Wars franchise came out in 2005 and it was among the Top 20 best selling games of 2005. The game features a total of 56 playable characters and an additional 3 characters in the GBA version. The gameplay is very simple and players are assigned specific scenes from the movie along with a set of characters. Their aim is to interact with the characters and solve puzzles to progress. Buy this classic and experience one of the best Star Wars game of all time.

LEGO Star Wars III: The Clone Wars

The Clone Wars was released after the release of LEGO Star Wars: The Complete Saga. It had a huge task at hand – to live up to the names of its predecessors. Even though the story lacked some depth, the game was a financial success mainly due to its sound design and characters. This one is a must have for every Star Wars fan and those who want a complete LEGO Star Wars collection.

LEGO Star Wars: The Force Awakens

This is TT Games' fifth installment in the LEGO Star Wars' universe. The Force Awakens is based on the latest Star Wars movie that saw the revival of the franchise after quite some time. LEGO Star Wars: The Force Awakens was also the fastest selling game in its week of release staying at the top position for five weeks continuously. The game is available on all platforms and you should definitely get it for experience over 200 playable characters and some great new modes.

Star Wars: The Force Unleashed II

Star Wars: The Force Unleashed II is the sequel to The Force Unleashed which was released back in 2008. The initial game was praised for its amazing story, soundtrack, and graphic quality. Expectations were high with the release of the sequel and it managed to do justice to its predecessor. The game itself was extremely immersive thanks to the great sound design and story. Buy this game now and take control of Starkiller's clone as you search for your true identity and Juno.

Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith

If lighhtsaber battles get you excited, then you must surely buy Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith. The combat-based gameplay of this game was very highly praised by critics. There is a possibility of an endless number of attacks using a combination of grapple attacks, counter attacks and force tricks. The gameplay is fast paced and is extremely exhilarating.

Star Wars: The Old Republic

Star Wars: The Old Republic is only available for the PC and it is also one of the most highly rated Star Wars games in the world. It was the best MMO game of 2011 and it’s not surprising because the creators of this game are none other than BioWare, the creators of the Dragon Age series and Mass Effect series. If you want to immerse yourself in one of the best ever role-playing Star Wars games, don't think twice about buying The Old Republic, which is still going strong and constantly updated by the developers.

Star Wars: Republic Commando

Let me start off by telling you that this game doesn't feature Jedi. If you've been wanting to play a first-person shooter with Jedi, then this is not the game for you. The best thing that I love about this game is that you get to choose up to three non-playable characters to help you take out enemies and on various other quests. The characters never die. They can be incapacitated but can be revived by other teammates. The game is over only when all the four players get incapacitated at the same time.

10 Best PlayStation 4 Games For Christmas

Posted: 29 Nov 2016 01:31 PM PST

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The PlayStation 4 has all kinds of award-winning, critically acclaimed games, including some amazing exclusives. If you’re looking for the perfect Christmas gift for the gamer in your life, you may want to consider some of these great games. They’re not all PS4 exclusives, so if you have an XBox One, or PC, you’ll still be able to play most of them.

Enjoy this list of the best PS4 games for Christmas, and happy shopping!

Bloodborne


This PlayStation exclusive is not only one of the best PS4 games, but it’s one of the best games to have been released in the last few years. You play as an outsider who has just arrived in a strange city, and quickly, you begin to unravel the city’s many dark secrets, mysteries and hunt its many beasts. Bloodborne is a spinoff of the Dark Souls series, known for its cruel difficulty level. Bloodborne is no easier than its predecessors, and if you don’t have the patience for harsh boss fights and even regular enemies that can kill you in one or two hits, Bloodborne isn’t for you. Bloodborne is a beautiful game though, with some of the most memorable boss fights I’ve ever encountered, and a gorgeous setting with intriguing, addictive gameplay and lore.

The Last of Us Remastered

I originally played the Last of Us on the PS3, and it was one of the greatest cinematic experiences I’ve ever had from a game. You’ll quickly fall in love with its characters, feeling their every emotion as if it was your own. Much like a movie that you can’t stop watching, The Last of Us is a game you won’t be able to stop playing. It’s not just a typical zombie horror game, it’s a game with heart. And now with a remastered edition, you’ll be able to play the game with upgraded graphics, making it all the more immersive. Note that this is also a PlayStation exclusive, meaning you won’t be able to play it on other consoles.

Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor


Shadow of Mordor received many game of the year awards, and is definitely the best game ever set in Middle-earth. If you don’t have a current gen console, don’t worry, because it was also released on PS3 and Xbox360. In Shadow of Mordor, you play as a ranger named Talion and it’s your task to take down the Black Hand of Sauron and avenge the deaths of Talion’s family. The game’s combat system is incredible and never gets boring, providing endless fun slaying orcs and Uruk-hai.

Fallout 4


The latest entry in the Fallout series, Fallout 4 is another dive into a post-apocalyptic world. This time around, your character has full voice acting, making it a first for the series. This game is full of action, adventure, and seemingly endless content, making it an experience that will last you a long time. There’s so much to explore, so much to see and do, so say goodbye to the real world for a while.

Elder Scrolls: Skyrim Special Edition


Skyrim is probably one the most successful games of the last decade, and for good reason. It’s one of the most immersive experiences in gaming, millions of players dedicating thousands upon thousands of hours to the game. Like Fallout, another Bethesda series, Elder Scrolls is full of content, making for almost endless fun. Play through the main story, being the Dragonborn, or join the Thieves Guild, Dark Brotherhood, or play through all kinds of other quests. Lose yourself in the cold, desolate land of Skyrim, now looking better than ever with its remastered graphics, and included DLC.

Rise of the Tomb Raider


The Tomb Raider series has been around for decades now, and Lara Croft is perhaps the most recognizable female protagonist in gaming. The series was rebooted a few years back and this is the second game of the new Tomb Raider series, featuring a more gritty Lara. Like its predecessor, Rise of the Tomb Raider involves survival and action elements, confronting you with many perilous moments.

Mortal Kombat XL


The Mortal Kombat series is known for its ultra violent combat, having gushing blood, snapping bones, and guts being literally ripped out of bodies. Mortal Kombat XL is even more gory, as the graphics are better than ever before. If you aren’t a fan of that, the great gameplay and options make up for it. There’s so many awesome combos and sequences, and every character has their own unique moveset. There’s also more character choices than previous entries in the series, and a great single player story campaign.

Dragon Age Inquisition


BioWare is one of my favorite companies, and just like with their Mass Effect series, Dragon Age features a myriad of interesting characters, and fantastic writing. Inquisition has numerous stand-out characters and great dialogue, with gorgeous graphics, and a great story. BioWare always deliver with their amazing RPG’s.

Overwatch


Overwatch was one of the most anticipated games of 2016, and upon release, it immediately sold tons of copies. A multiplayer shooting game, Overwatch was created by Blizzard Entertainment, makers of World of Warcraft. It’s a brilliant shooter, with whimsical, colorful, cartoonish graphics, characters with unique weapons, and several different campaign modes, creating a vibrant game.

Star Wars Battlefront


I’m a sucker for almost anything with the Star Wars title slapped on the front of it, and Star Wars Battlefront has become one of my favorite shooters. I love the choices of characters from the movies, such as Han Solo, Luke Skywalker, and Darth Vader. The maps are each different and pose their own challenges. There are several different guns and vehicles, taking time to master. Overall, I think Star Wars Battlefront has enough content so that it’s never a boring, and now that you can get a copy with the DLC for an affordable price, there should be plenty to do in this game.

I hope you found a game that you can get this Christmas! Most of these games can be found on sale, so pick up more than one!

18 Ridiculously Useful Gifts for Bakers

Posted: 29 Nov 2016 12:23 PM PST

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All my friend and family know when it comes to buying me a gift is anything that has to do with baking is welcomed. I consider myself as a baker. I love to bake and test our new products that make baking even more fun. So it made sense to share my passion through this list.

Baking for me is not just about baking cakes and cupcakes, is also about making yummy homemade bread, pastries and of course PIZZA! Searching a baking-related gift can be quite confusing if you are not baking yourself, so guess what; I did the hard work for you :).

Below you’ll find 20 perfect gifts that I’m sure Bakers will love to get this holiday season.

Rotating Cake Stand

A rotating cake stand is a very handy and basic product to have. Sometimes you find yourself missing out the most essential items and if you don’t have a rotating cake stand this is a great gift. You can get it here on Amazon.

Ultimate Professional Cake Decorating Set

For the baker who just loves to make sweest and of course decorate, a decorating cake set can be a very fun gift to get. In this ultimate professional set you’ll get all the essentials to get you started.

If you have a nice budget, this set is the perfect gift for bakers who also love to decorate

Cheat Sheet Apron

This apron combines both functional information along with humor. It will keep your clothes out of the splash zone while providing you a cheat sheet of measurement conversions. Definitely a fantastic gift!

Russian Piping Tips

This set by CrownBake is unique with carefully designed icing tips. Each tip will create a different type of a flower or leaf. If you are looking to take your decorating skills to a whole new level these Russian piping tips are perfect to do just that. You can get it on Amazon.

Battery Operated Flour Sifter

A battery operated sifter is one of those little gizmos you need to have in the kitchen. This sifter will do the job for you; you simply press the button and watch the magic happens.

101-Piece Cookie Cutter Set

101 cookie cutter? Yes, please! Cookies cutter are fun to have. I love to make themed cookies, for birthdays, special occasions and holidays. With this 101 set of cookie cutters the sky is the limit.

Basic Mixing Bowls Measuring Cups

These are must-have, very basic tools each baker should have.

Gummy Bears Molds

These extra cool molds will help you make your very own gummy bears! OMG!

Moon Cake Mold Cookie Cutter

If you are searching to give your cookies a more proffesional look, this mold cookie cutter can help you achieve just that. Get it here.

CookBook Compact Folding Bookstand

This bookstand is good for your iPad as well as a cookbook, making your baking process easier and faster.

Cookie Pro Ultra II Cookie Press

It seems that in the holiday season everybody suddenly becomes bakers and want to bake everyone some cookies. If that is the case, this cookie press is a great little baking gadget to have or give.

Bread Maker

Baking is not only for cakes and cupcakes, but some bakers also really enjoy making yummy bread. For those bakers, a bread maker can be a great gift. Naturally, you can bake bread without it, but it’s super easy to make bread with a machine that once you try, it’s impossible not to get hooked.

Hamilton Beach Classic Stand Mixer

This mixer is like magic; super small but super effective. It also doubles as a hand mixer so you are getting a two-in-one deal.

Digital Multifunction Food Kitchen Scale

A Kitchen scale is super useful, and you’d be surprised that a lot of bakers fans don’t have it. This is absolutely one of the best gift ideas for new bakers.

Macaron Kit

Making Macarons is quite trendy these days. If you are looking to challenge your baker, ask him or her to make you Macarons, This set will help in the process of getting you those yummy treats.

Pizza Pans

Homemade Pizza is simply one of the best things you can bake. Having the right tools for that will make your pizza even more yummy.

A pizza stone is one of those must have items if you plan on making lotsa pizza at home. It will make your home pizza a much more professional one and of course crunchier and tastier.

Silicone Dough Scrapers Set

This Silicone Dough Scrapers Set is both elegant and useful. As a baker it’s very fun to have quality kitchen aids. This set is actually a 2 Pack Multipurpose Scraper with Measuring Scale and Conversion.

Alphabet Letters Number Cake Pan

This patent pan will help you create almost any shape you wish for when baking a delicious, and awesome looking cake.

For more baking related articles check out our Best Baking Gadgets To Make & Decorate Cakes & Cupcakes and 50 Kitchen Tools & Gadgets for the Perfect Food Making Experience

Oddity Central

Oddity Central


Australian Cattle Farm Claims Feeding Cows Chocolate Is the Secret to Tastier Beef

Posted: 29 Nov 2016 09:52 AM PST

They say chocolate makes everything better, and apparently premium wagyu beef is no exception. For the past 10 years, the Mayura Station Farm in southern Australia has been feeding its full-blood wagyu cattle chocolate and other sweets mixed with their regular feed, and the results have been spectacular.

When Scott de Bruin, managing partner at Mayura Station, returned to his father’s farm in the Limestone coast of Australia, in 1998, he knew he wanted to do something special to make their beef stand out from that of other luxury cattle farms around the world. But he didn’t know exactly how he was going to do that, so he consulted a cattle nutrition specialist from Japan and spent two years experimenting with different feed before deciding on the final daily ration for his wagyu cows – a special mix of regular feed, chocolate, gummy bears, strawberries and cream flavored gummy snakes. Each cow eats up to 2 kilograms of ground and partially broken chocolate delivered by Cadbury’s every day.

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Chinese City Opens Awesome Five-Star Public Toilet

Posted: 29 Nov 2016 06:36 AM PST

People generally avoid going into public toilets, unless they absolutely have to. Most of them are dirty, uninviting places, but that’s definitely not the case with this recently opened five-star public restroom in Chongqing, China.

Public toilets are hardly-ever news-worthy topics, but after seeing photos of this new five-star facility in the Bishan district of Chongqing, I decided it was too cool not to share. The 150-square-meter restroom not only features an elegant interior design and quality materials like marble floors, granite imitation walls, lacquered wood doors and urinal separators, and even chandeliers, but also a central heating system and 24-hour air-conditioning that keep the place at a constant 26 degrees Celsius all year round.

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Portland ‘Adulting’ School Teaches Millennials How to Be Functional Grownups

Posted: 29 Nov 2016 05:04 AM PST

Millennials (people born between the early 80's to the mid 90's) are often labeled as lazy, spoiled and unable to act mature enough to handle adulthood, but a new ‘adulting’ school in Portland, Maine, is trying to change things by teaching millennials the skills required to function as real adults.

Unless you spend a considerable amount of time online, the word ‘adulting’ probably sounds very strange, but I’ll have you know that in 2015 it was nominated for word of the year by the American Dialect Society. It has used by a number of high profile websites in the titles of popular articles, and several big brands have used ‘adulting’ in their marketing campaigns. But you’ll mostly find the word on social media, relating to things usually associated with adulthood. The verb ‘adulting’ currently has two meanings – 1. to behave in an adult manner; 2. to make someone behave like an adult.

Growing up was never easy, but some people seem to think that it is particularly difficult for adults. One of these people is Rachel Weinstein, co-founder of the Adulting School, who got the idea for the project while working as a psychotherapist. “I noticed as a therapist that a lot of my client's well-being seemed to be affected by a lack of some really important skills,” she said. “And I know over the decades with teaching to the test, and other changes in education, schools have had to cut a lot of Home EC classes. And that's some of the stuff that people really need to learn and aren't necessarily taught unless parents really impress those skills upon them.”

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Dornob | Design Ideas Daily

Dornob | Design Ideas Daily


Enko the Energy-Saving Running Shoe

Posted: 29 Nov 2016 02:00 PM PST


People have been running for many thousands of years — originally to catch things or to avoid being caught (equally important endeavors). Now, of course, we primarily run for fun or fitness, and we can harness science to help optimize our run and save wear and tear on the old joints. Enko is a high-tech running shoe designed by French runner Christian Freschi. Read more…

Eat Your Dinner, Then Eat Your Spoon — Bakeys Edible Cutlery, Saving the Planet From Plastic Waste

Posted: 29 Nov 2016 06:00 AM PST


Plastic cutlery may be a convenient way to eat food on the fly and evade the cleanup, but it's also non-biodegradable. In the USA alone, 40 billion plastic utensils are thrown away annually. https://youtu.be/Wi8hrtIYBTI Based in Hyderabad, India since 2011, Bakeys produces lightweight cutlery that looks like wood and that you can throw away without feeling guilty about its impact on the environment, as it biodegrades in only 4 - 5 days. Read more…

The Root Robot Makes Learning to Code Fun

Posted: 28 Nov 2016 02:00 PM PST


We've all heard how important it is to learn to code — it's vital to surviving and thriving in today's high-tech world, and a great way to bolster your resume when you're on the hunt for a new job. Now there are a variety of coding systems to make learning this new skill a breeze, whether you are seven or 70. Read more…

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