Yesterday I got fed up with a bathroom sink that was draining slowly. This was a recurring problem, and I'd occasionally plunge it to speed things up again. But since it kept happening I decided to try and get to the root of the problem. There are plenty of suggestions on the internet about drain cleaning using the old Science Fair volcano trick of mixing baking soda and vinegar, so I figured this sounded better than paying a plumber. But getting started I also learned why one might pay a plumber for this job. Removing the drain plug revealed its base was completely coated in the most horrific sludge imaginable. This was the obvious source of the slow draining. But it was so disgusting I regretted even becoming aware of it, much less having to clean it. But dealing with grossness is one of my roles in the household, so I powered through it. In the end this turned out great. The drain is now shiny, clean, and draining perfectly. I even managed to avoid yakking along the way.

Draining Round-up
Thanks Ant and Neutronbeam.

Breakfast Link

• Airtag-inspired Google tracking device has literally the most unfortunate name ever. Brilliant.

Stories

• Zip line becomes a lifeline for California community cut off by storms. Thanks brother19.
• China's first population drop in six decades sounds alarm on demographic crisis.

Science
Thanks Acleacius and Max.

• Rice breeding breakthrough could feed billions.
• Fluke Discovery of Ancient Farming Technique Could Stabilize Crop Yields.
• New study examines the psychological mechanisms underlying Solomon’s paradox.
• Eating one wild fish same as month of drinking tainted water: study.

Media

• Coolest gaming setup ever?
• Military Historian Reviews the Best Movie Battle Scenes of All Time. Thanks RedEye9.
• Conan Learns About A Star Trek-Themed Town In Canada. Thanks David.

Follow-up

• Jeremy Renner's snowplow injuries 'worse than anyone knows.'