A sobriquet is a descriptive nickname. The nickname “Mr. Smarty Pants” was given to this writer by a former girlfriend.
Stephen Stills auditioned to be in the Monkees. He didn’t get picked because of his looks.
When Agatha Christie went missing in 1926, there was a massive effort to find her. Arthur Conan Doyle even tried to help by taking one of Christie’s gloves to a medium in the hope that it would provide answers. It did not.
Brazil is considering increasing protections for the pernambuco tree. Wood from the tree is used to make bows for stringed instruments.
California is the only state in the U.S. where motorcycle lane splitting (passing cars between lanes) is legal, but it’s legal and even encouraged almost everywhere else in the world as a tool to reduce congestion and improve rider safety.
The above is information that Mr. Smarty Pants read in a book, magazine, or newspaper; heard on the radio; saw on television; or overheard at a party. Got facts? Write to Mr. Smarty Pants. Why not visit mrsmartypants.com?
This article appears in August 7 • 2026.