STRANGE BUT TRUE

* It was 17th-century French philosopher Rene Descartes who made the following sage observation: “If you would be a real seeker after truth, it is necessary that at least once in your life you doubt, as far as possible, all things.”

* Does the sight of a bald eagle inspire you with patriotism? If so, you can thank John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, who overruled Benjamin Franklin when deciding on the national bird. Had Franklin had his way, we’d be looking to find national pride in the somewhat more humble turkey.

* When you think of large tire manufacturers, the companies that immediately spring to mind are probably Goodyear and Michelin. You might be surprised to learn, then, that the world’s largest manufacturer of tires is actually Danish toy company The Lego Group. It’s true; they produce more tires than any other manufacturer. (Just don’t try to put them on your car.)