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Questions answered

It was Thomas Edison who got his ears boxed by his teacher for asking, “Why is the sky blue?”  Pity.

Q: So, why is it? A: The Short Answer: Gases and particles in Earth’s atmosphere scatter sunlight in all directions. Blue light is scattered more than other colors because it travels as shorter, smaller waves. So we see a blue sky most of the time.

Q: Also, why is grass green? A:  Like many plants, most species of grass produce a bright pigment called chlorophyll, which nicely absorbs blue light (high energy, short wavelengths) and red light (low energy, longer wavelengths) but mostly reflects green light, which accounts, for example,   for your lawn’s color.

Q: What’s the best way to fall asleep without a drug prescription?  A: Melatonin (just follow directions) or soft music.

Q: How does one know if it’s love or lust in a relationship?  A: Read the first chapters of Theadore Reik’s book “Of Love and Lust.”

Q: Where will you find the most radio programs dealing with matters sexual?  A: NPR’s WGGL-FM (91.1) or Marquette’s WNMU FM (90.1) – but – caveat – instead of the once ad-free programming, you’ll have to endure up to 40% “non-commercial” miscellany.

Q: Why do people always say only nice things about the dead, and never remind us of their human failings?  A: Being polite, recalling the old adage, “Never speak ill of the dead.”

Q: What’s the difference between protestors and agitators?  A: Protestors are legitimate groups parading for a cause; agitators are illegally destructive and looting as they infiltrate among the protestors. Also, protesters carry banners; agitators carry weapons.

Q: Why are a few diehards still refusing to wear masks despite all the good reasons for doing so?  A: Obviously, they are either ignorant, stupid, stubborn or misled.

Q: What, according to the press, is one of the amazing consequences of the pandemic?  A: People have, in general, become more sympathetic and considerate of others in need; and some families are following the tradition of evangelicals and enjoy home schooling as a safe solution. 

Q: Is there proof that a Climate Change exists, and if so, what’s the best way for the general public to slow it down?  A: It depends on whom you ask and what their motives are. Scientists are unanimous (since the 70s) to show proof in drastic melting of glaciers and other dramatic weather extremes, and warn polluting from excessive use of fossil fuels. Politically oriented persons who gain from oil drilling and fuel usage claim otherwise. So who do you believe, scientists or politicians?

Q: World wide forest fires around the world – Climate Change, too?  A: Check with the Sustainability of Initiative at the U of Buffalo about CC already raising the average temps this July to the hottest on record, drying out lands and making them exposed to lightning, fires, dust storms, etc. 

Q: How do you bypass hateful robocalls? A: One big help – just let the phone ring twice, then answer it. They’re gone! 

Q: How can a person have fun without gas guzzling vehicles, boats, motor bikes, or snowmobiles?  A: Read a book; it takes you anywhere without using fuel.

Q: Why do people pay millions of dollars to own a painting by famous artists like Degas, Picasso or Rodin?  A: Because to a lover of great things, it’s worth it. Also, some do it on speculation: buy low, sell high.

Q: Who said, “Nothing in all the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity?”  A: Martin Luther King, Jr.

Q: Who said, “Patriotism is good; nationalism is bad:? – A: More than one person who knows politics.

Q: What’s the best way to tackle a new day with gusto?  A: Ask any Finn – with a strong cup of coffee.

Q: What’s the best way to enjoy ending the day with a healthy evening meal?  A: Ask any Italian – with a rich salad and a dish of pasta. 

Q: How can you prevent gaining weight?  A: Eat healthy food in small quantities and exercise regularly.

Q: How do you get a child to love you?  A: Prove that you love the child.

Q: How do you become happy?  A: Be content first.

Q: How do you succeed in business?  A: Look, listen, stay one step ahead of the competition.

Q: What’s the healthiest food doctors suggest?  A: Broccoli and other plant-based foods – no kidding. 

Q: What’s one of the worst? A: Red meat in quantities.

Q: What’s the best way tp live a century?  A: Listen to your doctor.

Q: What is the first thing a politician does when caught “with his pants down” ?  A: Lie and deny.

Q: How does the head of any  nation do when caught in a criminal act?  A: Deny and lie.

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