According to Reader’s Digest, history repeats itself, particularly if
you flunk it.

The current New York City subway system opened in 1904 with a
nine-mile
system. It now has 238 miles. The city’s previous subway system, which opened
in 1870, was a giant pneumatic tube.

Baby mongooses are called “kittens.”

Dr. John Fernstrom, a nutritionist at the University of Pittsburgh, says
flavor enhancer monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a naturally occurring substance
in tomatoes and Parmesan cheese.

Transvestite model/singer RuPaul used to cut the breasts off Barbie
dolls.

The above is information which Mr. Smarty Pants read in a book, a magazine,
or the newspaper; heard on the radio; saw on television; or overheard at a
party. Got any facts? Leave a message for Mr. Smarty Pants, at 454-5766, ext.
226 for possible inclusion in the column. E-mail: mrpants@auschron.com

This article appears in August 25 • 1995 and August 25 • 1995 (Cover).

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