Hot Dog On A Stick

Dude, check it out! So I was, like, totally cruisin' the mall the other day, right? And I'm starving. Like, totally could eat a whole cow starving. But then I see it – Hot Dog on a Stick! Flashback to my childhood, man.

This place is a classic. They've got those stick hot dogs, obviously, and they're pretty good. Not exactly gourmet or anything, but they hit the spot. But the real star of the show? Their lemonade. It's like, totally fresh-squeezed, and they make it right there in front of you. I swear, it's the best lemonade I've ever had.

The whole vibe is super chill, too. The staff are all wearing those crazy striped uniforms, and they're always smiling. It's like stepping back in time to a simpler era, before grunge and dial-up internet.

Okay, so maybe the hot dogs aren't gonna win any culinary awards. And yeah, the decor is a little, uh, "unique." But honestly, who cares? Hot Dog on a Stick is a total blast from the past, and sometimes, that's exactly what you need.

P.S. Don't forget to try the cheese on a stick. It's, like, totally radical.

White Claw VS Zima

## A Tale of Two Fizzies: White Claw vs. Zima, the Rematch 

Remember Zima? That clear, bubbly beverage from the 90s that tasted vaguely of citrus and regret? Well, dust off your frosted tips and JNCO jeans because it's back, baby! And it's facing off against the reigning champ of "I'm not really drinking, I'm just hydrating with a kick" – White Claw.

This isn't your older brother's Zima, though. It's been reformulated, rebranded, and is ready to reclaim its throne (or at least a barstool) in the ever-expanding world of alcoholic seltzers. But can it dethrone the mighty Claw?

**Round One: Taste**

White Claw built its empire on a simple premise: clean, crisp flavors that don't taste like a melted popsicle. Zima, on the other hand, is a bit more... enigmatic. Some say it tastes like Sprite with a shot of vodka, others claim it's like drinking a carbonated gummy bear. One thing's for sure: it's definitely not your average seltzer.

**Round Two: Nostalgia Factor**

Zima has the clear advantage here. It's the drink that fueled countless college parties and awkward first dates. It's a time capsule in a bottle, a reminder of a simpler time when the internet was dial-up and frosted tips were considered a fashion statement. White Claw, while undeniably popular, simply doesn't have the same historical clout.

**Round Three: Marketing**

White Claw's marketing is slick, aspirational, and undeniably effective. It's the drink of choice for influencers, athletes, and anyone who wants to project an image of effortless cool. Zima, on the other hand, seems to be relying on its "remember me?" factor. It's the underdog, the comeback kid, the washed-up celebrity trying to make a comeback tour.

**And the Winner Is...?**

It's too early to call. While White Claw currently dominates the market, Zima has a secret weapon: nostalgia. In a world saturated with "clean" and "pure" beverages, Zima's unapologetic artificiality might just be its winning ticket.  

Ultimately, the battle between White Claw and Zima is a battle for our hearts (and livers). Will we stick with the familiar comfort of White Claw, or will we embrace the nostalgic chaos of Zima? Only time will tell. In the meantime, grab a can (or bottle) of each and let the games begin!

**(Disclaimer: Please drink responsibly, and remember that frosted tips are never

a good idea.)**

Mall Madness (1988)

Okay, so, like, Mall Madness, right? Totally rad! It's like, the ultimate board game for any girl who's ever dreamed of, like, maxing out her mom's credit card. 

Basically, you get to be this totally cool shopper chick with a serious case of shopping fever. You gotta race around the mall, buy everything on your list, and be the first one back to your car with all the loot. It's like a scavenger hunt, but with, like, way more neon and way less exercise. 

The game itself is pretty gnarly. It's got this, like, totally awesome electronic talking thingamajig that tells you where to go and what to buy. It's like having your own personal shopping guru, except, like, way less judgmental about your fashion choices.  

And the best part? SALES! Like, totally awesome sales. You can score a sweet deal on a pair of leg warmers or a totally rad boombox. Just, like, make sure you don't go into debt, or your plastic will be toast. 

But, like, be warned, this game can get totally intense. You might end up, like, wrestling your BFF for the last pair of jelly shoes. Just try to keep it chill, okay? It's just a game.  

Anyway, if you're looking for a game that's totally fun, totally 80s, and totally addictive, then you gotta check out Mall Madness. Just be prepared to spend some serious cash... fake cash, that is.  

Later,

Your shopping buddy from 1

990 ✌️

Nerds Cereal (1986)

Okay, so like, totally rad news, you guys! Remember Nerds, those tiny little candies that turn your tongue all sorts of crazy colors? Well, guess what? They made it into a cereal!  

I know, right? Mind blown. 🤯

This stuff is like, a total sugar rush in a bowl. Each box has two flavors – I got orange/cherry and strawberry/grape – and they're separated by this, like, totally awesome divider thingie. It's like having two cereals in one! Talk about a sweet deal.

The cereal itself is basically tiny little Nerds, but like, puffed up and crunchy. They kinda look like those colorful styrofoam packing peanuts, but don't worry, they taste way better. And they turn your milk all these crazy neon colors, which is kinda gross but also kinda cool. 

This cereal is like, the perfect way to start your day. It's got so much sugar, you'll be bouncing off the walls like a hyperactive hamster! Just, like, maybe don't eat it before a math test or anything.  

My only complaint? I wish they had, like, a million more flavors. Imagine a bubble gum and watermelon Nerds cereal! Or maybe even, like, a pizza flavored one? Okay, maybe not that last one. 

Anyway, if you're looking for a cereal that's totally tubular and totally delicious, then you gotta check out Nerds cereal. Just be prepared for a sugar rush of epic proportions.  

Later, dudes!

Your cereal connoisseur from 1

986 ✌️ 

1970s Halloween masks 

## Those Groovy Ghouls: A Look Back at 1970s Halloween Masks

Halloween masks in the 1970s were a unique breed. While today's masks often strive for realism or intricate detail, the masks of the 70s embraced a simpler, almost cartoonish aesthetic. Molded from thin, pliable plastic and secured with a thin elastic band, they were mass-produced and affordable, making them a staple of Halloween costumes for kids across the country. 

**Popular Characters and Themes**

The 70s saw a rise in popularity of classic monsters like Dracula, Frankenstein's monster, and Wolfman, with their likenesses immortalized in countless masks. Superheroes like Batman and Robin were also common, reflecting the pop culture trends of the time.  

However, some of the most iconic masks of the era were decidedly less glamorous. Witches with long, warty noses and pointed chins, devils with mischievous grins, and goofy-looking pumpkins were all Halloween mainstays. 

One notable trend was the rise of "political" masks, featuring then-president Richard Nixon and other political figures. These masks provided a touch of satire and social commentary to the Halloween festivities.

**Companies and Brands**

Companies like Ben Cooper and Collegeville dominated the Halloween mask market in the 70s. These companies churned out masks by the millions, often featuring popular characters licensed from movies, TV shows, and comic books.  

**The "Look" of the 70s Mask**

The masks themselves had a distinctive look. They were often characterized by:

* **Bold Colors:** Bright, primary colors like red, yellow, and blue were common, giving the masks a vibrant, almost pop art feel.

* **Simple Designs:** Details were often minimal, with features like eyes and mouths represented by simple cutouts.

* **Thin, Vacuformed Plastic:** The masks were typically made from thin, vacuum-formed plastic, which made them lightweight and inexpensive to produce.

* **Elastic String:** A simple elastic string was used to hold the mask in place, often resulting in a less-than-secure fit.

**Nostalgia and Collectibility**

Today, these vintage masks are highly sought-after by collectors. Their nostalgic charm and kitschy aesthetic have made them popular display pieces and conversation starters. Many people fondly remember the thrill of picking out their mask from the local drugstore or supermarket, making them a tangible link to Halloweens past.

Whether you remember them fondly or are just discovering their quirky charm, there's no denying that 1970s Halloween masks hold a special place in Halloween history. They represent a time when Halloween was a simpler, more innocent affair, and their enduring popularity is a testament to the power of nostalgia and the enduring appeal of a good old-fas

hioned Halloween scare.

Risk

Risk: A Classic Game of Global Domination (and Frustration)

Risk is one of those board games that almost everyone has heard of, and many have likely played at least once. It's a classic for a reason, offering a blend of strategy, diplomacy, and luck that can lead to hours of tense gameplay. But is it still worth playing today?

The Basics:

Risk is a turn-based strategy game where players aim to conquer the world by controlling territories on a map. You build armies, attack your neighbors, and forge alliances (that you'll probably break later) in a quest for global domination. 

What's to Like:

* Simple to Learn: The core mechanics are easy to grasp, making it accessible to a wide range of ages and experience levels.

* Strategic Depth: Despite its simplicity, Risk offers plenty of room for strategic thinking. Planning your attacks, managing your troops, and anticipating your opponents' moves are crucial for success.

* Exciting Moments: There's a real thrill in rolling the dice and seeing your armies sweep across the board, conquering new territories. 

* Social Interaction: Risk encourages negotiation and backstabbing (in a fun way!), leading to memorable moments and rivalries.

What's Not to Like:

* Luck Factor: Dice rolls play a significant role in combat, which can lead to frustrating outcomes and swing the game in unpredictable ways.

* Player Elimination: It's possible to get knocked out of the game early, leaving you to watch others battle it out.

* Can Drag On: Games can sometimes take a long time, especially with more players.

Overall:

Risk is a classic for a reason. It's a fun, engaging game that can provide hours of entertainment. While the luck element and potential for long playtime can be drawbacks, the strategic depth and social interaction make it a worthwhile experience.  

Who Should Play It:

* Strategy game enthusiasts

* Families looking for a challenging game

* Groups of friends who enjoy a bit of competition (and betrayal

)

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars 

Bubble Up Soda