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Thousands of cities around the world participated in something known as Earth Hour on March 23, 2013. Many buildings in these cities dimmed or turned off non-essential lights for one hour to help raise awareness of global climate change. (MercuryNews.com features a great photo essay on some of the world's most iconic structures gone dark.) It’s certainly a fine cause, but you won't find any of these photos on those cities' chamber of commerce or tourism websites. In terms of photographic appeal and aesthetics, a blacked-out cityscape can’t compete with a brilliant nighttime skyline. See for yourself with a look at these 10 spectacular city skylines from around the world.

The sluggish U.S. economy has left many people in despair, but it’s created a booming opportunity for con artists out to prey on the less fortunate. Some of the most common and most ingenious scams involve work-at-home offers, and unfortunately, victims of these scams are already in bad financial situations. Variations on some of these scams have been around for many years, but others have developed and grown more sophisticated thanks to the Internet. Here are five of the most common work-at-home schemes, along with tips from law enforcement officials, fraud investigators and consumer advocates to help you avoid becoming a victim in something dangerous that could not only cost you thousands of dollars, but could also lead to identity theft and even criminal charges.

An almost mythical aura surrounds the American farmer. Other occupations, from politicians to lawyers to corporate executives, take a beating in public opinion polls. Those same polls show farming is among the most respected professions. Farmers can use that bit of good news, because they have been losing ground on many fronts in recent years. Wicked weather has taken a toll on crops. Major agricultural companies have made it tougher for the family farmer to compete. Suburbs encroach on their farmland, governments impose more regulations, and farmers watch their children move to the big city to find a better job. Still, the American farmer is revered around the world for his productivity. So just who is this figure known as the American farmer? What are his future prospects? Here are some facts and observations to help separate the reality from the myths about this iconic American figure.

The Baltimore Ravens weren’t the only big winners in the 2013 Super Bowl. Several automakers also celebrated a strong showing with their commercial presence in the big game. USA Today’s Ad Meter, which used online polling of thousands of viewers to rate every commercial in the Super Bowl, ranked five car commercials among the top 10 among all ads in the game. Chrysler’s Dodge Ram commercial, which used an essay from the late broadcasting legend Paul Harvey in a tribute to the American farmer, ranked third. Chrysler also took fifth place with an ad for its Jeep brand. Kia, Hyundai and Audi also earned spots in the top 10. Cause for celebration, sure, but with Super Bowl ad time this year averaging about $3.8 million per 30-second spot, is it worth it? There’s no question a successful TV ad campaign can boost car sales, sometimes dramatically. Here’s a look back at several successful car commercial campaigns from recent years, and how they impacted sales.

There are no completely good or bad dog breeds. Every purebred dog alive today is the latest in a long line designed to be good at something, while other traits have often been neglected. And a dog's behavior is shaped primarily, of course, by its environment and individual personality. But the fact remains some dog breeds are great for families while others are clearly not. If you’re thinking about adding a new dog to your family, here are some breeds you may want to consider, or avoid, depending upon your situation.

Life is full of risks, reflected by somber Centers For Disease Control statistics that attribute the leading cause of death for ages 1 to 44 to “Unintentional Injury.” And while it’s true that cycling injuries kill hundreds of people annually, and skateboarding accidents send tens of thousands of kids to the ER each year, some machines are far more dangerous, in terms of serious injuries and deaths per use. Medical professionals and even the manufacturers of some of the following machines agree they’re not appropriate for youths under the age of 16. Even teens old enough to operate these vehicles should have the appropriate training and take the appropriate measures (wearing helmets, not traveling on busy roads, etc.) to assure these most preventable and tragic of injuries never happen.

As they say, hindsight is always 20-20, so it’s easy to poke fun at predictions that turn out not only wrong, but comically, tragically wrong. There was no shortage of such predictions in 2012, many made by people who certainly should have known better. That said, here’s a tongue-in-cheek look at 10 predictions — some serious, some a bit bizarre — that totally missed the mark in 2012.

In the search for answers as to why 20-year-old gunman Adam Lanza would storm Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn., and gun down 26 innocent children and staffers, media and pundits latched on to several possible explanations. One factor that quickly surfaced is that Lanza had Asperger’s syndrome. As we collectively struggle to understand why anyone would commit such a crime, some Asperger’s advocates say we risk further victimizing many other children who have this disorder, by associating Asperger’s with violent behavior and serious mental illnesses. It’s not the only misconception about Asperger’s that has surfaced in the wake of the shootings. Here are five of the most common myths about Asperger’s.

Hurricane Sandy made headlines for its assault on the Northeastern U.S. in late October, but overall 2012 turned out to be a quiet year in the U.S in terms of weather. The federal government declared only 47 Major Disasters in 2012, far fewer than the 99 such incidents in 2011, or the average of 75 incidents between 2007-2011 (the majority of all such disasters are weather-related). Dating to 1953, the U.S. government has designated almost 2,100 events Major Disasters, making areas and residents affected by the calamities eligible for federal benefits. These events encompass exactly 24 different scenarios, from relatively common events such as snowstorms and floods to much rarer events (tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, etc.) Here are the states that have been hit with the most declared “Major Disasters” since the federal government began such designations in 1953.

Christmas is celebrated around the world, with feasts, gift exchanges and images of Santa Claus common even in countries with a scant Christian population. Yet many of these celebrations are very different from the Christmas customs so familiar to residents of the United States and many other Western nations. From strange Christmas meals to a bizarre demonic creature that spirits away bad children, here are some of the more unusual Christmas traditions from around the world.

Listosaur.com is something like Forrest Gump’s beloved box of chocolates — you never know what you’re going to get. You might see a story on science one day, history the next. One story might be a fun read, the next very disturbing. The common thread in all of them is that at some point in every story we hope you’ll say to yourself, “I didn’t know that.” Here, in no particular order, is a look back at 12 intriguing Listosaur stories you might have missed from 2012.

For many people, sending out a stack of Christmas or holiday cards to those on their mailing list is one of the most cherished traditions of the holiday season. The only thing better for some is receiving cards from family and longtime friends, complete with a recent family photo and a Christmas letter. So how did this tradition of exchanging cards get started in the first place? The practice began more recently than you might think. Here’s a look at how this tradition started, along with some other surprising facts about Christmas cards.

Business analysts have long recognized the cyclical nature of the retail industry, but you don’t need an MBA to notice the seismic shifts happening in retail today. New industries and products are being born, as once-thriving businesses fade. In every case, changing behavior is behind these industry trends, and in most cases, new technology is driving these changes. Tablets, smart phones and similar devices have made life increasingly portable and, arguably, more efficient. That’s good for us, but not so good for many established businesses. Below are five business models that are going through tough times — and the future doesn’t hold much promise, either.

Israel doesn’t have the resources to field a large military, given its population of only 8 million and a land area roughly the size of New Jersey. Yet Israel’s military is widely regarded as one of the finest in the world. According to GlobalFirepower.com, Israel has the 10th most powerful military in the world. The country created its Israel Defense Forces in May 1948 specifically with national defense in mind. Israel has a relatively small number of infantry, a small coastal naval force instead of a blue-water navy and no heavy bombers to project power over long distances. These limitations make it unsuited to take on much of a sustained offensive or expeditionary posture in the Middle East, let alone the globe. But factors such as training, technology, a tight partnership with the United States and high morale act as force multipliers that increase the IDF’s power far beyond its small numbers. Here’s a look at how this small country became an elite military power.

A stunning turn of events in November 2012 disappointed many Americans. No, we’re not talking about the presidential election, but the news that Hostess, longtime maker of the beloved Hostess Twinkie, would shut down after a bitter labor dispute. But for Americans with a junk food craving, fear not. In the land that gave the world McDonald’s, potato chips, hot dogs, and numerous brands of candy, there is plenty more junk food to go around. Here’s a quirky, by-the-numbers look detailing Americans’ prolific consumption of junk foods and other unhealthy foods. Before we begin, we’ll mention this Centers for Disease Control estimate: almost 36 percent of U.S. adults are obese … and that rate is on the rise.

General William Tecumseh Sherman best described the reality of war in three words. “War is hell,” he told military academy graduates a few years after the Civil War. Sherman made this statement long before modern weapons, including nuclear bombs, made warfare even more horrific. So while no one celebrates war, throughout history most societies have fully supported their warriors. The United States honors its military veterans with two special days each year. Memorial Day is held to commemorate soldiers killed in the line of duty, while Veterans Day each Nov. 11 honors all military veterans. Here’s a photo essay featuring some striking or otherwise poignant images of modern U.S. service members.

America honors its veterans every Nov. 11, a date that commemorates the armistice that ended World War I on the same date in 1919. Most people will show their appreciation for servicemen and women on Veterans Day, but it’s important to remember that they deserve our thanks and support the other 364 days of the year. Here are just a few ways you can help a veteran, and if you don’t have any time or money to donate, don’t worry — some of these actions cost you nothing more than a well-deserved handshake or a pat on the back.

Sun Tzu’s The Art of War recounts Chinese philosophy that, “An army without secret agents is exactly like a man without eyes or ears.” As low-intensity conflicts picked up in the mid-20th century during the Cold War, the use of military special forces also gained prominence. These “Quiet Professionals” can travel fast and light, hitting a target worldwide within 24 hours. But along with the well-known units such as the Navy SEALs, Green Berets, Rangers and Delta Force are a number of other elite and fascinating outfits that fall under the purview of the modern United States Special Operations Command. Established in 1980 shortly after the aborted attempt to rescue U.S. hostages in Iran, USSOCOM is an inter-service, command and control organization. Based at MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa, Florida, USSOCOM oversees all joint service component operations. Here, in no particular order, is a look at some of the more unique units under its command.

You may have lived in the same neighborhood for many years, perhaps all of your life, and think you know everything that’s going on. You chat with your next-door neighbors from time to time, and wave to the couple down the street whose names you’ve forgotten. But how much do you really know about your neighborhood? If an emergency arose and you suddenly needed to call the owner of the house on the corner, could you quickly find the owner’s name and telephone number? Would you know if a sexual predator lived a few houses down the street? Thanks to the Internet, much of this information is available to you at a moment’s notice — provided you know where to look. Here are five Internet sites that will help you learn more about your neighborhood — and they might be useful in checking out a new neighborhood before you move.

Once upon a time, most people thought of plastic surgery only when they stood at the supermarket checkout line, scanning sensational tabloid headlines (“Hollywood’s biggest plastic surgery failures!” “Did she or didn’t she get a lift?”) In recent years, however, advances in surgical techniques, lower prices and favorable media coverage through shows such as Extreme Makeover have helped popularize plastic surgery for the masses. Almost 10 million surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures were carried out in the United States in 2009, according to the United States Census Bureau. Here’s a look at the top five most common plastic surgeries in the United States, according to estimates by census.gov and The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.

You’ve probably seen the lists: “Best Cities to Start a Business.” “Friendliest Towns in America.” “Safest Cities in the U.S.” And on and on. But many times, these lists feature communities that while safe, or inexpensive, are sorely lacking in culture, entertainment and other amenities. We've compiled a list of 10 small towns and cities that won’t break the bank, but are also very livable, loaded with character, history and plenty of amenities. Our list of well-rounded communities all boast around 100,000 or fewer residents — in keeping with a U.S. government definition that “mid-sized cities” exceed 100,000 in population. Regardless of whether you call them a “city” or a “town,” these places offer all, or most, of the attributes — a good economy, low crime, culture, entertainment and activities — that people generally look for when putting down roots.

When our not-so-distant ancestors wanted to get a bird’s-eye view of the world around them, they climbed the nearest tree, or if they were lucky, a nearby hilltop or mountain. Today, spaceflight, aerial photography and advances in computer graphics have given us some interesting and insightful new looks at our planet. Here are a few videos, maps or simulations of the Earth that are sure to spark your imagination.

Many people generously donate their time and/or money to help others in their community. When it comes to donating blood, or registering as an organ donor, however, some of those same Good Samaritans turn reluctant. Meanwhile, each year there are literally millions of people in the United States who rely on complete strangers who have donated blood, tissue, bone marrow or an organ. Maybe it’s procrastination that’s kept you from participating. Or maybe, you think you’re too busy. Just remember, your decision to take action in one of these areas could save a life.

When Sam Walton opened his first Walmart in Rogers, Arkansas, in 1962, he just hoped to draw his share of business away from a popular nearby competitor. Walton’s Wal-Mart Discount City store much more than that, evolving into a business empire that is now the largest company in the world, with almost $444 billion in net sales for the fiscal year that ended in January 2012. Yet Walmart has a ways to go before it can claim status as the world’s largest employer. Here’s a ranking of the world’s 10 largest employers, using information gathered from company and other sources.

The joy of adopting a new dog is perhaps only matched by the joy of loving an existing one. And you can make the joy of adoption even greater if you set your sights on a rescue dog from the neighborhood animal shelter. Sure, you can hunt for a new dog through breeders or pet shops, but fetching a rescue pooch from a shelter comes with at least five fabulous rewards that also happen to make great sense.

According to the old real estate cliché, your home will be the biggest investment you ever make. So homeowners buy insurance to guard against calamities such as theft, fire, tornadoes, falling trees, etc. Yet even the most conscientious and risk-averse homeowners probably give little thought to these hidden threats that may lurk inside their home — and several of them are not covered by most insurance policies.

Ask 10 different stay-at-home moms about their motivation behind devoting their life to caring for their children and home, and you might get 10 different answers. For some, staying at home with their children is a lifelong ambition. Others are former full-time professionals who gave up a high-paying career to change diapers and clean up after their children. Still others are taking time off from their profession, wanting to spend time at home with their newborn or toddler before returning to the workforce. A 2012 survey conducted by Mothers & More, a support organization that caters mainly toward stay-at-home moms, or SAHMs, found that 82 percent of their members quit a full-time career to care for their children. The United States Census also found that there were approximately 5 million SAHMs in 2010, which is a drop from 5.3 million in 2008. These numbers are compelling, but they don’t begin to explain the life of a stay-at-home mom. Here are five thoughts on the day-to-day turmoil, joys and anxieties faced by many stay-at-home moms.

The 2012 Summer Olympics kick off July 27 in London, bringing us a parade of flags from countries around the globe. Think of it as a rare free art exhibit. While the flag designs may not reach the same creative heights as, say, Picasso or Dali, many of them are interesting enough to merit mention on a top 10 list. And because even bad art can sometimes be fun, we’ve also included another half dozen or so national flags that are so bad they wouldn’t even earn a place on our kitchen fridge.

So how do you plan to spend this Fourth of July? Maybe you’re headed to the lake, or a cookout, or a baseball game. You’re certainly not planning a trip to the emergency room. Unfortunately, an estimated 8,000 Americans will spend the afternoon or evening of July Fourth not celebrating, but in the hospital ER, getting treatment for a fireworks-related injury. Still, fireworks are synonymous with Independence Day celebrations, even in states where they’re illegal (and no, that is not an endorsement). Here are five surprising facts about fireworks in the U.S.

You know us. We go behind you in the grocery store, restoring order to the fruit pyramid. We squirt sanitizer into grubby hands before they dig into the bag of fast food. We floss between meals. You have names for us. “Type A,” “micromanagers” and “control freaks.” Well, sticks and stones, baby, those names can’t hurt us. We know who we are, and there’s nothing we like better than tidy little labels. But when we’re not driving you nuts, did you ever stop to think how helpful or altruistic our compulsions could be? Whether it’s a summer job or a lifelong career, there are plenty of ways our “controlling” tendencies contribute to the common good.

Take a look at this list of ideal jobs for control freaks. (I use the word, freaks, in the most complimentary sense. We’re nothing if not enthusiastic about our aversion to chaos.) If you’re a control freak, see if these jobs are a good fit for you. Extra points go to those jobs with the word control baked into the title.

It’s been three years since the recession ended, and many people are still feeling the effects of the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression. The unemployment rate for May 2012 stood at 8.2 percent, and analysts say that figure understates the problem, as it doesn’t include people who have given up looking for work; they believe the “real” unemployment mark is somewhere around 14 percent. On the other hand, there are a number of areas around the U.S. that are prospering, with unemployment rates in the low single digits. Here’s a look at the 10 U.S. metropolitan areas with the lowest unemployment rates as of May 2012.

In the face of skyrocketing college tuitions and a weak economy, some U.S. educators are questioning whether it makes sense to continue steering the majority of high school students toward a four-year college. Some educators say yes, while others point to the fact that there are plenty of recent college graduates — some with mortgage-sized student debt loads — who have no job prospects. Studies have shown that, on average, someone with a bachelor’s degree will have around $1 million more in lifetime earnings than a high school graduate. But there are exceptions to the rule, and while some in the academic world dismiss blue-collar and technical trades as less prestigious than white-collar work, there are many blue-collar jobs that pay quite well. Here’s a list of some of the highest paying blue-collar jobs in the U.S., with median salary information as of 2010 from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Almost every time we get on an interstate highway or major road, we see the most visible cogs in the U.S. distribution system — tractor-trailer trucks. And anyone who’s ever been stuck for several minutes waiting for a long freight train to pass can appreciate how much freight moves on U.S. railroads. But most Americans would be astounded at the amount of freight that moves through a few dozen ports along the East and West coasts and some of the country’s major waterways. The numbers are staggering: the equivalent of 28.74 million containers measuring 20 feet long by 8 feet wide by 8.5 feet high passed through the 30 busiest U.S. ports in 2009 (the latest year for which statistics are available). If those containers were stacked end to end, they’d stretch some 111,000 miles, nearly half the distance to the moon. Here’s a look at the 10 busiest U.S. ports based on container traffic, according to the 2012 Statistical Abstract of the United States.

Some numbers simply defy our understanding. One such number made the news earlier this month, when an unheralded organization known as the Internet Society announced there are now 340 trillion trillion trillion unique addresses on the Internet (that’s 340 undecillion in mathematician talk). And why, you may ask, do we need 340 undecillion Internet addresses? Those who help regulate the Internet, including the non-profit Internet Society, have fretted for years about running out of unique IP addresses. To solve this dilemma, the organization has unveiled a new Internet Protocol, known as IPv6, and officials estimate the new system will provide enough new IP addresses for everyone in the world to have a billion billion IP addresses for every second of their life. With these ridiculous numbers being thrown about, we decided to take a look at some other numbers that might help define the current state of the Internet. Don’t worry — we won’t use any more obscure figures such as undecillion.

The new One World Trade Center made news in April when the tower under construction surpassed the Empire State Building to become the tallest structure in the Manhattan skyline. Set for completion in 2014, the building will top out at 1,776 feet, making it the tallest building in the United States if you count the 408-foot needle on the tower’s roof. That claim has sparked a minor tiff with fans of Chicago’s 1,451-foot Willis Tower, who argue that 1 WTC’s needle shouldn’t count in measurements. Either way, both those towers pale in comparison on the height chart to these five structures around the world that are opening in 2012 or are nearing completion.

Canadian officials recently took a step that was mostly overlooked by the American public — the country announced it will cease production of pennies. Such a move has been debated in the United States for several years now, but instead of doing away with the penny — which could save tens of millions of dollars a year — the U.S. government appears headed in the opposite direction; in 2009, Treasury officials went to the trouble and cost of producing a redesigned penny in honor of Abraham Lincoln’s 200th birthday. It’s not the first time the government has produced coinage or currency that in retrospect seemed like a bad idea, as the below examples show.

Why are we here? What’s the point of existence? As human beings, we are constantly searching for meaning, and throughout history scientists, theologians, philosophers, writers and poets, have explored such themes. Most people long for peaceful, happy, healthy and fulfilling lives. Some turn to religion to satisfy their spiritual yearnings; others choose alternative paths on their quest for self-knowledge and enlightenment. And now there is an abundance of literature available for spiritual seekers, on such diverse concepts as consciousness, inner peace, the mind/body connection, the power of thought, the law of attraction, and the nature of reality.

For this list we’ve chosen 10 modern spiritual writers who have been particularly influential and successful in spreading their message and vision.

The famous Guinness World Records officially recognizes thousands of incredible records. Many of these are interesting in their own right, but are hardly worthy of adulation. Would you want to hold the record as the World’s Most Tattooed Person? How about the record for the Most Marshmallows Eaten in 1 Minute? Then there are the dangerous feats that push the bounds of the human body and technology, giving us a greater appreciation for the human spirit. Here are 5 such awe-inspiring, record-setting — and dangerous — feats caught on video.

New college graduates are leaving their alma maters behind this spring, and if they thought classes in Advanced Calculus or English Literature were tough, they’re nothing compared to the challenge they face in a depressed U.S. labor market. Countless thousands will fail to find work in their field and will enter the labor force underemployed, finding the $75,000 in student debt they racked up for a Psychology degree has landed them a job in the fast food industry. But for high school students and college students still trying to choose a major, here are five of the fastest growing jobs in the United States with a median pay of $75,000 or more, based on statistics and projections from the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Welcome to the deadliest time of year for weather in the United States. As temperatures rise across the U.S., so does the incidence of weather-related deaths. Warm weather brings an increase in tornadoes and lightning, and the Atlantic hurricane season officially begins June 1. It’s worth noting that the weather events that draw the most media coverage and evoke our deepest fears, hurricanes and tornadoes, on average cause far fewer deaths than much more mundane weather occurrences. Here’s a list of the top 5 weather-related causes of death in the United States, based on statistics from several federal agencies.

In early March 2012, a federal judge ruled it would be unconstitutional for the U.S. government to order cigarette manufacturers to put graphic warning labels on cigarette packs sold in the U.S. By coincidence, a couple of weeks later the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention unveiled a $54 million campaign of anti-smoking commercials. The commercials, airing on both TV and the Internet, feature graphic depictions of smokers who have lost limbs, their voice boxes or suffered debilitating strokes, and the campaign is already being hailed for its strong production values and effective message.

That brings to mind some great and not-so-great public health commercials from the past. Here are 10 interesting anti-drug and public health messages through the years. (Warning: Given the graphic nature and subject matter of these commercials, this story is intended for mature audiences.)

For the giant pharmaceutical companies that have spent millions developing and marketing medicine for everything from high blood pressure to insomnia, when will someone find a cure for the estimated 60 million people worldwide that suffer from paraskevidekatriaphobia? That mindboggling word refers to people who have a fear of Friday the 13th. Those poor souls are in the midst of a very bad year, with April 13 the second of three Friday the 13th dates this year (July 13 is the final one). Just how did this particular day and date become associated with bad luck? Here’s a look at that and a few other common myths and superstitions that just won’t go away.

Christianity is the largest religion in the world, with more than 2 billion followers. Devout Christians have been driven to build magnificent churches and cathedrals, start faith-based charities, operate Christian schools, send missionaries to every continent … oh, and build some really impressive statues of Jesus. Here are some notable Jesus statues from around the world.

Trayvon Martin’s death has prompted protests around the United States. The fact an unknown Florida teenager’s death could make him a household name overnight is due in part to the suspicious circumstances of the case, as well as the power of the Internet and the 24/7 news cycle in spotlighting a story that might have been overlooked in past years. But Martin is not the first ordinary person whose death suddenly thrust them into the national consciousness. Here are five others whose deaths came to symbolize something important in American culture.

Most people agree United States public schools are failing. A number of tests in recent years have shown American students of middle and high school age performing either average or below average compared to students in several dozen other countries. If anything, the news seems to be getting worse — according to a Harvard University study released in 2011, U.S. high school seniors ranked 32nd among their peers in other countries in math proficiency. While everyone agrees education reform is needed, like seemingly everything else in the U.S. these days, the issue generates harsh debate along partisan lines. Both sides can show statistics or poll results showing their reform ideas have proven more effective or are more popular. Here are the five most controversial issues in U.S. education today. Don’t expect any of these controversies to go away anytime soon, as some have lingered for decades.

Go through any neighborhood on the weekly recycling day and in front of most residences you’ll find recycling bins filled with cans, bottles, newspapers and other recyclables. Most Americans make an effort to recycle; according to one 2009 poll, 77% of Americans sometimes recycle. That statistic, reliable or not, doesn’t account for the other potentially recyclable items these same well-meaning individuals toss into the trash daily. Here are the top five items that should be recycled but all too often end up in landfills.

Many people still wonder just what Apple co-founder and visionary Steve Jobs meant right before his death in 2011, when he uttered his widely reported last words, “Oh wow. Oh wow. Oh wow.” The statement is so ambiguous, it has been interpreted several different ways. The 10 people noted below left no such uncertainty with their final thoughts and words, with statements that seem a perfect coda to their life experiences. Here are 10 fitting and famous last words from some historical figures.

Gas prices are on the rise around the U.S., reaching more than $4 per gallon in some parts of the country, and many motorists are understandably upset. But at $4 or even $5 per gallon, gas is one of the great bargains in modern life. In fact, many people routinely spend 10 to 25 times that amount per gallon on certain liquids at the grocery store without batting an eye. Here are five popular liquids at the grocery store that make gasoline seem very cheap by comparison.

Many people are drawn to home-based job opportunities because of the flexibility and freedom. Being your own boss, spending more time with family, avoiding long commutes, dressing how you please — what could be better? It’s ideal for moms and retirees, and in this tough economy, full-time employees are also finding ways to supplement their income. In good times or bad, there are always those who shun the 9-5 routine, and explore different ways to earn a living. And work-at-home offers abound. There are many scams, promising get-rich-quick schemes, yet others are legitimate. Some pay a pittance, while others pay a living wage. But in rare instances, a “work-from-home” job could make you millions. Here are 10 real ways to earn money at home.

It all started so innocently four years ago in an aisle of Best Buy. My husband pulled me into the video game section and pointed to a game called World of Warcraft. The “Gee, honey, I’ll only play a few hours on the weekends” quickly turned into inside jokes with his friends, and mind-numbing talk of talent trees and farming dungeons. It’s now evolved into endless weekend nights where he sits in front of a computer screen, pressing buttons and speaking in a language so foreign most women would need a Rosetta stone to decipher it. I sometimes feel like I should start a support group for other women widowed by the console games and MMORPGs — or massively multiplayer online role-playing games, for those who haven’t already lost their loved one to this menace — that have taken over their husband’s and boyfriend’s lives. This might be a good first step in offering support, presenting the top 5 confessions of a video game widow.

Statistics tell us that between one-third and one-half of marriages in the United States are likely to fail. Once a social stigma, divorce is now becoming an accepted part of the American lifestyle. The media continues to trivialize holy matrimony, placing all the emphasis on the wedding, just one day, as opposed to the marriage, which is meant to be a lifelong partnership. We are constantly bombarded with the scandalous affairs of celebrities and politicians; people get married on reality TV shows, and commercials make light of spouses lying to each other. In this environment, it’s little wonder that the divorce rate is so high.

But it doesn’t have to be this way. Once identified, most marital problems can be resolved. Here are five common mistakes that can turn marriages into divorce, and how you and your spouse can avoid them.

You may not have heard them in years, but odds are you can finish each of these little ditties the way a couple might finish each other’s sentences: “Give me a break, give me a break …”; “I am stuck on Band-Aid …”; and “Plop, plop, fizz, fizz …” These jingles for the likes of Kit Kat and Alka-Seltzer may seem old school, but you can’t question their staying power. They have managed to replay over and over again in our heads, which is what makes them so effective. Only time will tell if any of today’s advertising campaigns, such as Geico’s revolving door of characters (the cavemen, lizard with distinguished accent, etc.) will one day be remembered so fondly. Here, for your listening and viewing pleasure, are the 10 best commercial jingles of all time.

There is no secret formula to getting a book published. It requires luck and good timing and it doesn’t hurt to know the right people. The traditional route has become more difficult as the industry struggles to evolve. The same names appear on bestseller lists and publishers fight over celebrity memoirs. If you’re not already famous or an established author, it can seem like a closed shop. Yet debut authors get published all the time despite the odds. And many authors succeed with self-published books. It takes patience, perseverance and a thick skin to deal with rejection. But these are qualities most writers have developed after months or years tapping away at the keyboard, waiting for the muse to show up, battling with self-doubt. If you have a completed manuscript sitting on your desk, congratulations. Now for the dirty work ... put the champagne on ice and roll up your sleeves.

The following information was gathered over five years as I researched the publishing world. Sources include countless books, magazines, websites, and conversations with established authors. I also draw on my own experience as a writer and producer, as well as my work in coaching authors in media readiness and book marketing.

According to the Facebook “Statistics” page, there are over 800 million active Facebook users worldwide. Twitter asserts that over 1 billion “tweets” are sent into the land of celebrity wannabes and disillusioned teenagers on a weekly basis. For as many astounding statistics there are for these and the other social media websites, including Google+, LinkedIn, Friendster, Digg and the formerly hip MySpace, there are almost as many common faux pas, mistakes and inappropriate tweets, posts and photos. Do yourself a favor and avoid these 10 common social media mistakes if you want to keep your friends and followers lists intact.

It’s been an eventful year at Listosaur.com, and chances are you missed some of these stories that appeared on the site. In no particular order, here are 12 intriguing stories featured on Listostaur.com in 2011.

Ask most workers in America, and chances are they’ll tell you they’re underpaid and overworked. In one famous 2004 incident, NBA star Latrell Sprewell publicly rejected a 3-year, $21 million contract offer from his team, saying, “I have a family to feed.” On the other hand, one could make the theoretical argument that few people are underpaid. Workers tend to earn as much as their talents and work experience dictates; if they’re unhappy in their current job, they’re free to work elsewhere. In reality, however, millions of workers are trapped by their circumstances, sometimes forced to take low-paying jobs they don’t want, and for which they’re overqualified, to make ends meet. Certain other jobs offer better pay, but many people would consider the salary low considering the job conditions. That said, here are the top 10 most underpaid jobs in the United States (salaries listed are the national median wage, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).

For decades, they not only defined our shopping habits, but our culture as well. Companies such as Woolworth and Montgomery Ward were iconic brands that at one time were a major force in the retail world. But these once mighty retailers all eventually fell on the sword of capitalism. Some failed to keep pace with increased competition, while others fell victim to poor management. In some cases, the retailers succumbed to new technologies and inevitable obsolescence. Here are 10 retailers that left an imprint in the American marketplace but have since faded into oblivion.

As a woman it’s always amazing to me how some men can remember the score of Super Bowl IV but have no insight into the hearts and minds of the women they live with on a daily basis. I’m not going to waste your time helping you find the “perfect” gift for your wife or girlfriend, because that is almost as impossible as the Chicago Cubs winning the World Series. Instead, here is a practical guide that will help you avoid the minefield that comes with giving your estrogen-laden better half a thoughtless, insincere or just plain bone-headed gift.

Polls have shown the United States military is by far the most respected American institution. Like all institutions, its core is not buildings, mission statements or budgets, but people. The U.S. military features both active duty personnel and reserve forces. These reserve forces are comprised of Army and Air National Guard units — which are controlled by their states in peacetime — as well as the federal Army, Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps Reserve units. The 845,000 Guard members and Reservists have served extensively in America’s wars, especially in Iraq and Afghanistan. As the National Guard celebrates its 375th birthday on Dec. 13, here are five surprising facts about the Guard and Reserves.

There are many famous islands in the United States, and most are famous in part because they’re tourist magnets. But you won’t find the likes of Maui, Nantucket, Hilton Head, Key West, Miami Beach or these other must-see places on this list. Instead, you’ll find an island that has been branded the “Forbidden Island,” one where the dead outnumber living residents 850,000 to O and another so remote Russia is only two miles away.

American industrialist Henry Ford is generally credited with inventing the first assembly line, around 1913. The innovation allowed the Ford Motor Co. to sell millions of cars in a few years, a phenomenal feat at the time. Ford would certainly recognize some of the techniques he pioneered, such as the division of labor, on the modern assembly line, but he’d surely be amazed at the advances such as robotics and “clean rooms.” From microchips to beer, here are 10 interesting assembly line videos.

Remember the good ol’ days, when we only had addictions to booze, “hard drugs” and gambling to worry about? Our grandparents didn’t have “Crackberries” competing for their family time, and “Halo” was simply part of an angel’s attire — not a game played by teens until they drop dead. With all the conveniences provided by new technologies, many unexpected consequences arise because one thing is certain: Humans have always had a problem obeying the old adage, “Everything in moderation.”

‘‘Where do you see yourself in five years?” “What are your greatest strengths?” These are some routine interview questions most job seekers can anticipate and prepare for in advance. But if an interviewer starts probing into someone’s personal life by inquiring about marital status, dependents, age, national origin or religion, they are treading dangerous ground. It is illegal for a prospective employer to make hiring decisions based on personal details that are not directly job-related. The motivation behind illegal questioning varies. Some interviewers are ill trained and simply unaware of the law, while others may want to subtly (or not so subtly) weed out candidates who could become a financial burden, such as a pregnant woman needing maternity leave. Federal, state and local laws prohibit certain interview questions and job applicants are not obligated to answer them. Here are 10 illegal job interview questions, and what to do if you encounter one (or more) on a job interview.

What’s the scariest job in America? That probably depends on your own personal fears. If you have a deathly fear of snakes, you’d probably say herpetologists have the scariest job. To settle the issue, Harris Interactive and CareerBuilder.com polled more than 4,300 workers in a nationwide survey in late summer 2011 and found the following 10 occupations rated as the scariest in the United States.

Some social trends come and go. Think goldfish swallowing, streaking and dwarf tossing at your favorite neighborhood bar. Other social trends, however, might start out silly, fun or even useful but then morph into something twisted, out-of-control — or even dangerous. A UCLA professor once claimed an adult male could eat up to 150 live goldfish without suffering any bodily harm, but several of the following trends that have gotten out of hand have the power to kill you in an instant.

So you’re stuck in a passenger boarding area at Chicago O’Hare International Airport as your departure time comes and goes and the surly gate attendant announces for the fourth time that “boarding will begin shortly.” Such is life for frequent and not-so-frequent flyers who must fly into or out of O’Hare and the other busiest airports in the United States. Here’s a look at the top 10 busiest airports in the United States as of 2010, according to the Airports Council International.

With Halloween right around the corner, kids are picking out their costumes, and parents are fretting about their children eating a month's worth of sugar in one night. You've probably heard tales about the roots of Halloween and how it actually began as part of a religious celebration. But have you ever wondered about more recent Halloween "traditions," such as the fear of tainted candy and torching abandoned buildings? And is it possible that some store-bought costumes are still quite flammable? The facts may surprise you.

For some time now, we have been hearing that 40 is the new 20. Now the statement that “60 is the new 20” is at risk of turning into yet another cliché. No doubt people are living longer and staying more active than ever before, but the legends below were seemingly defying the aging process long before 40, let alone 60, was equated with the robustness of youth. In fact, these cultural icons didn’t gain prominence in their respective fields until most of their counterparts were looking forward to retiring to warmer climes.

When it’s raining cats and dogs you want to go inside, and you know to never trust anyone who sheds crocodile tears. While you may regularly delight in uttering animal idioms and be well aware of their meanings, you might not be equally as aware of their origins. Some stem from literal uses, others are more proverbial and at least one is thoroughly disgusting as it sheds a whole new light on a heavy rainfall.

They’ve been celebrated in movies, books and songs, and their very names evoke strong images in the minds of most Americans. Think Wall Street, and you think bankers and traders making millions. Rodeo Drive means movie stars on a shopping spree. Bourbon Street = all-night party. Obviously, a list of the most famous streets in the United States is subjective. Factors we’ve considered include such intangibles as the street’s name recognition, historic significance, political and economic importance and status as a tourist destination. Apologies in advance to New York City’s Fifth and Park avenues, Biscayne Boulevard, the Sunset Strip and all the other roads that didn’t make the cut.

Rock stars seem to have it all: incredible wealth, the adoration of millions of fans, a high-flying lifestyle of private jets and exclusive parties. But the fame, fortune and hectic lifestyle leave many stars feeling empty and searching for meaning. Some end up finding fulfillment by converting to Christianity. Here are 10 rock musicians who devoted their life to Jesus Christ.

Fueled by one of the greatest economic booms in world history, China has been on an infrastructure-building spree of late. In 2010 and 2011, the country opened four new massive bridges, giving it claim to four of the five longest bridges in the world. China now boasts seven of the 10 longest bridges in the world, all built within the past decade. Such engineering feats were once mainly the province of the United States, which for much of the latter half of the 20th century boasted most of the longest bridges in the world.

Here are the 10 longest bridges in the U.S., and no matter how well traveled you are, four or five of these bridges will come as a surprise. (Distances are given as the total bridge length, including approaches on shore.)

The United States Navy SEALs (Sea, Air, Land) have been a premier special operations unit since the Vietnam War. SEAL teams operated extensively in coastal areas and rivers of South Vietnam, earning distinction in the Mekong River delta region where there was heavy enemy activity. Since 9/11, the SEALs have played a vital role in the War on Terror, conducting numerous missions in Afghanistan and Iraq. Here are five surprising facts about the U.S. Navy Seals.

Before moving to New York City this year, my niece and nephew delighted in informing me that there were nine rats per person in the city, and they were convinced I would soon find one in my apartment. I’m happy to report that they were wrong (I haven’t seen one yet). I have, however, discovered some great things about living in the largest city in the United States. Here are just five of the best experiences residents enjoy in New York City.

Accidents happen — and they also kill enough people to rank as the No. 1 cause of death for those ages 1 to 42, according to the National Safety Council. Accidents are the fifth-leading cause of death across all age groups, topped only by a spate of illnesses that include heart disease and cancer. And it’s not the heavy-machinery operators, high-rise window washers or electricians who most frequently succumb to fatal accidents. The vast majority of accidental deaths happen at home or in the community — not at work — with the top five causes often stemming from routine activities.

Even the biggest nerds among us probably wouldn’t admit to reading a “terms of use” agreement or an instruction manual front-to-back just for fun. Let’s face it: You’ve only read the following 10 items in situations of extreme duress (read: boredom) where suddenly the name of every benefactor on your program at West Side Story is fascinating. The population suffering the real injustice here is trees. Each of us burns through the equivalent of a 100-foot-tall Douglas fir in paper and wood products annually. Talk about wasted paper … much of it used on things (almost) nobody ever reads.

The following toys were popularized in yesteryear, yet have enduring appeal today. In some cases, the genesis of these fun items was the result of some pretty serious stuff … like defense research during World War II. In other cases, these toys have spawned serious competitions, become cultural icons and generated controversy. Who would have thought that just one little plastic shape or ingenious idea, first sold for a couple of bucks, could still create so much buzz a half century later?

Iconic advertising logos have catapulted some consumer products to celebrity status that has lasted for generations. But the logos we take for granted today often went through many changes before reaching their current state. Could it be that Tony the Tiger was almost a kangaroo? Are Aunt Jemima and the Gerber Baby real people? Here is a look at the stories behind 10 of the most recognizable advertising icons in the world.

Your home is teeming with uninvited guests, guests that go through your garbage, invade your pet’s dish and love to swim and swirl round your bathtub and toilet.  Unlike in-laws who usually come by every few years or so, these guests — otherwise known as germs — relentlessly return. Our list of the five germiest places in the home is based on statistics from a Hygiene Council survey, funded by Lysol’s parent company of Reckitt Benckiser. The council sent researchers to 35 homes across America, swabbing for bacteria in 32 places. We combined some of the germiest entries to avoid redundancy — and ensure we could include the pet dish in there.