Protect your garden during a heat wave
In large parts of the U.S., late summer heat is no joke, and even the most heat-friendly garden crops like tomatoes and peppers can get cranky during a…
Author: Rick Good
Rick Good spent ten years in the newspaper business, including with The News & Observer (Raleigh, NC) and The Greenville News (Greenville, SC). He co-wrote, with Melinda Coleman, Rutledge to Riley: Governors of South Carolina, 1776–Present (Published by The Greenville News), and is the author of Mind Games Trivia #1 (Amazon). He has recently spent 15 years creating original trivia content through Sounds Good Mobile Entertainment and continues that with his new company, SGME Software. He edits The Smart Reader's money, real estate, and business coverage.
Why Independence Day is celebrated on July 4
Though the Fourth of July is a beloved date for Americans, some people claim that it’s not the real date of our independence. The first motion for…
Three tests for liberty
In the age of social media, it seems as though everyone sees a tyrant seated at the head of the other table. But is there any test for tyranny? On July 4,…
One if by land, Two if by sea: the famous ride of Paul Revere
American Independence Day is officially celebrated on July 4, the day that the Second Continental Congress ratified the Declaration of Independence in…
See American goldfinches by your own window
If you long to see a bright yellow and black goldfinch, getting one or more to visit your backyard feeder is not that difficult. All you need is a bag of…
Good advice for college freshmen, parents
School will start in a few weeks, but it’s not too late to help your college freshman avoid poor choices. Student development offices give this advice: *…
Dog Days of summer
It’s hot. It’s humid. The Dog Days are here. The term Dog Days dates back to ancient times, when people studied the sky and relied on the heavens and the…
Common back pain treatment may prolong symptoms
A new study published in the journal Science Translational Medicine suggests that over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as…
UK doctors prescribe app for insomnia
The U.K.’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommends the digital app Sleepio as an effective alternative to sleeping pills,…
Word games boost cognitive health
Millions of people around the world start their days not with a shower or a cup of coffee, but with the latest daily Wordle puzzle. If you haven’t played…