Random Facts 23

American Gothic
Grant Wood's famous painting of an old Indiana couple posing in front of a farmhouse...but they aren't farmers, or evena couple. Wood's sister Nan and dentist friend named Byron McKeeby posed in front of a farmhouse once used as a bordello.
Uncle John's Ultimate Bathroom Reader, p. 44.

William Emo
Considered the "Father of Traffic Safety," he originated stop signs, one-way streets, taxi stands, pedestrian safety islands, and traffic rotaries. Emo never learned to drive, thinking it was a passing fad.
Uncle John's Ultimate Bathroom Reader, p. 44.

Weekly Reader Smoked
In October 1994 the elementary school newspaper ran an article that discussed smokers rights and the harm done to the tobacco industry by smoking restrictions. It turns out that the Weekly Reader's owners were also the largest shareholders in RJR Nabisco, makers of Camel cigarettes.
Uncle John's Ultimate Bathroom Reader, p. 45.

Speed Reading
The average adult American reads about 150-200 words a minute.
Uncle John's Ultimate Bathroom Reader, p. 45.

Gallon of Flush
Every day, Americans use 4.8 billion gallons of water flushing the toilet.
Uncle John's Ultimate Bathroom Reader, p. 250.

First Male Hurricane
The first hurricane given a male name was "Bob," in July 1979.
Uncle John's Bathroom Reader Plunges into the Universe, p. 50.

Tectonic Plate Speed
Earth's 15 tectonic plates move one inch a year, about the same rate that fingernails grow.
Uncle John's Bathroom Reader Plunges into the Universe, p. 50.

Microwave Power
A typical microwave oven uses more electricity for its digital clock than it does in heating food. Switch off costly stand-by mechanisms.
Healthandgoodness.com Health & Happiness Environment Tip.