Q: For years there have been articles in the paper that refineries had to switch over to a different blend of gasoline for various cities in the spring to cut down on summer air pollution. The fuels were called boutique fuels. These fuels increased the price of gasoline for the summer. Did the Environmental Protection Agency suspend this requirement for 2012 to help reduce gasoline prices? -- Jim Rust, Atlanta
A: The Environmental Protection Agency has not waived the summer gasoline blend for Georgia. Georgia's summer blend will be sold in 45 counties in metro Atlanta from Friday through Sept. 15, James A. Capp, the chief of the Air Protection Branch of the Georgia Environmental Protection Division, told Q&A on the News in an email. "The summer blend reduces the volatility of the gasoline, which in turn lowers emissions," he said.
Q: Did any Central or South American countries send troops to fight in World War II? -- David LeCraw, Johns Creek
A: Brazil sent 25,000 soldiers and pilots to the Mediterranean, where they saw significant action. The first soldiers of the Brazil Expeditionary Force arrived in Italy in 1944, and they fought in several battles as the Allies advanced. Brazilians, along with U.S. soldiers, captured Monte Castello in February 1945. In April 1945, Brazilians captured more than 13,000 German and Italian soldiers near Fornovo in northern Italy. Brazilian pilots flew missions supporting the Allies' advance in Italy. About 500 Brazilians were killed in the campaign. The Brazilian navy also was involved in convoy and anti-submarine duty in the Atlantic during the war.
Andy Johnston wrote this column. Do you have a question about the news? We’ll try to get the answer. Call 404-222-2002 or email q&a@ajc.com (include name, phone and city).
About the Author
