Why is that rooster crowing in my neighbor’s yard with impunity?

Ever wonder why that rooster is allowed to crow in your neighbor’s yard with impunity? Image courtesy Rsphoto.nl Depends on … More

How are electric utility rates set?

How are your electric utility rates set? Image courtesy lydiashiningbrightly If you answered, “THE FREE MARKET!” you would be wrong! … More

Is that really Kona coffee you’re buying? Why the law’s not helping you as much as it could.

So that Kona coffee you’re buying. Image courtesy mikepetrucci. Does the law help you know if it’s legit? A whole … More

Why does the government play a role in disaster response?

As Tropical Storm Karen nears the Gulf Coast, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has recalled staff members who have … More

Why can you buy gas with an 85 octane rating in Colorado when the standard is usually 87?

Why are there regional variations in octane ratings? Why do some Rocky Mountain states allow 85, 85.5, 86, or 86.5 … More

Why aren’t movies rated by the government?

Why aren’t movies rated by the government? Image courtesy M4D Group. They were, before the 1960s! Some states and big … More

Why does FM radio go from 87.9 to 107.9?

In the United States, the frequency modulation (“FM”) radio band stretches from 87.7 MHz (megahertz) to 108 MHz. The center … More

Why does bedding have a tag that says "Not to Be Removed Except By Consumer?"

Back in the day, mattresses came stuffed with nasty stuff. Not my modern mattress! All new material, baby. Secondhand stuffing … More

Why is everything on 8.5" x 11" paper?

Turns out that paper doesn’t just naturally grow on trees in 8.5″ x 11″ sheets. Image courtesy FeatheredTar In fact, most … More

Why can I only find 15% ABV beer?

Why do some states limit the alcohol by volume (or “% ABV”) of certain types of alcohol? Image courtesy greencolander. … More