

Jake Rossen
Joined: May 6, 2013
Jake Rossen is a senior staff writer for Mental Floss.


Where Did the Term ‘Brownie Points’ Come From?

When Tampa, Florida, Banned ‘Jaws’ From Bookshelves

Why You Should Never Leave Your Dog in a Hot Car—Even For Just a Few Minutes
The Real Reason Costco Employees Check Receipts at Exits
If shoppers have one complaint about Costco, it’s that the employees posted at the exits to take a marker to customers’ receipts seem vaguely insulting. Here’s the real reason behind why it happens.
Who Has Jurisdiction for Crimes Committed in Space?
With privatized space travel growing, it's inevitable we'll one day find ourselves faced with a space murder. How would the law deal with it?
The 12 Best Destinations for Shark Spotting
Want to come face-to-fin with a great white? Book a trip to one of these 12 shark-spotting hotspots.
Damn Fine Auction: Hundreds of David Lynch’s Personal Items Are Going Up for Sale
Owning Lynch’s personal Mr. Coffee machine would definitely be a conversation starter.
This 'Marriage' Logic Puzzle Stumps Over 70 Percent of People Who Attempt It—See How You Fare
Marriage can often be puzzling, but this brainteaser takes it to another level.
The Reason Your Dog Loves Stealing Your Shoes
The tendency for dogs to steal, chew, and snuggle your shoe while dozing off is common across breeds, ages, and temperaments.
'Tortitude': Why Tortoiseshell and Calico-Patterned Cats Tend to Be Extra Feisty
Is your 'tortie' a sassy monster? You're not alone.
The Reason Dogs Love to Grab Sticks
To your dog, dragging a giant stick home makes all the sense in the world.
Why Do Dogs Bark at Nothing?
Barking into the abyss is a frequent complaint of pet owners, but there's an explanation. (And no, it's not aliens.)
Why Do Cats Follow You to the Bathroom?
Cats love to lurk around tubs like feline voyeurs. What causes this behavior?
The Legend of ‘Bum’ Farto, the Key West Fire Chief-Turned-Drug Dealer Who Vanished
In 1975, Bum Farto had it all. A dead body and a drug deal gone wrong changed everything.
Curtis Chillingworth, the Florida Judge Who Vanished From the Bench
Curtis Chillingworth was the most esteemed judge in Palm Beach County. But someone wanted him dead.