Welcome to Sue's weekly fun list, where we bring you a fresh dose of infotainment and all-around good vibes every week.
Whether you're in need of a Tuesday afternoon pick-me-up or just looking for a way to unwind and have a laugh, Sue's weekly fun list has got you covered.
S For Statistics
The Big Mac Index
Call me ignorant but I never knew that a burger could tell us so much about the global economy? That's right, I'm talking about the Big Mac Index - the clever (and delicious) way of measuring whether currencies are overvalued or undervalued.
According to the latest index, Switzerland takes the prize for the most expensive Big Macs in the world. At 6.71 U.S. dollars, you'd better hope they come with a side of gold leaf. Meanwhile, the U.S. and the Euro area are looking positively affordable in comparison, with Big Macs costing $5.15 and $4.77 respectively.
So how does this all work? It's simple, really - the Economist measures the average national price of a Big Mac in each country, and then converts it into U.S. dollars using the exchange rate at that point in time. Since a Big Mac is the same all over the world, any differences in price should reflect differences in the purchasing power of each currency. It's a fun way of looking at the global economy, and it's certainly more appetizing than staring at a bunch of boring charts and graphs. Plus, it gives us an excuse to indulge in a little fast food - all in the name of research, of course.
So the next time someone tells you that the Swiss Franc is overvalued, just whip out your Big Mac and show them the truth. Who knew that a burger could be so powerful?
U For Unusual
Presto and Presso
I don't know about you, but I absolutely hate going to the dry cleaners. It's always such a hassle - I have to find the time to go there during their limited hours, drop off my clothes, and then wait several days for them to be ready. And don't even get me started on the cost - it always feels like I'm being overcharged.
But just when I thought I was stuck with this never-ending cycle of dry cleaning misery, I heard of something amazing: Presso, the new dry cleaning vending machine. Now, instead of dealing with the hassle of going to the dry cleaners, one can just swing by Presso whenever needed and be done in 5 minutes.
Not only is it convenient, but it's also cheaper than most dry cleaners. Plus, there's something undeniably satisfying about watching your clothes get sucked into the machine and come out the other side looking fresh and clean.
Honestly, I never thought I'd be so excited about a vending machine, but Presso would change my life. Now I just have to find one near me or convince someone to install it! Dry Cleaning Vending Machine
E For Explore
Wunderbar!
Move over Hollywood, there's a new collaboration in town. Hisense, one of the world's largest TV manufacturers, and Leica, the iconic camera company, have teamed up and created a laser projection TV that will blow your mind.
Leica, known for its high-quality lenses, is expanding into the laser TV market as part of its growth strategy, and has partnered with Hisense to make it happen. Together, they combined their expertise to create a powerful and future-oriented technology platform for short-distance laser TVs.
So what does this mean for you, the avid TV watcher? Imagine sitting in your living room, the lights turned low, as your new laser TV projects a crystal-clear image onto your wall. You'll feel like you're at the movies, but without the sticky floors and overpriced popcorn. And with Hisense and Leica working together, you know this TV is a game-changer. Hisense is a leading innovator in the laser TV business, while Leica's reputation for quality is unmatched. It's a match made in heaven, or at least in the projection booth. So get ready to upgrade your home cinema experience with the power of laser technology. Hisense and Leica are bringing it to your living room, and it's going to be epic. Leica Laser TV
‘s For small Peeps
Eagle Viewing Field Trip
Ready for some high-flying fun? Join naturalist John Foley on a field trip to the Shepaug Dam, where you can observe bald eagles in their natural habitat. With the hydroelectric station creating an attractive opportunity for the eagles to catch fish, it's like a sushi bar for our feathered friends.
And the numbers don't lie - just a few weeks ago, 35 eagles were spotted in one morning alone. That's enough to make even the most seasoned birdwatcher's heart soar. But the fun doesn't stop there. You'll also be on the lookout for waterfowl, hawks, and great-blue herons, because why settle for just one kind of bird when you can have a whole buffet?
John will be there to share interesting facts about bald eagles and their remarkable comeback from the threat of extinction. Who knew our national symbol was such a success story? And with John's help, you'll be able to identify all the birds you see, because let's face it, sometimes they all look like just a bunch of flapping wings.
So grab your binoculars, pack a lunch, and get ready to spread your wings on this exciting field trip. The eagles are waiting for you!
Thanks for reading the entire list.
See you next Tuesday
Sue Lapsien
