Q: I sometimes watch reruns of “All in the Family.” I noticed Carroll O’Connor wore rings on both of his middle fingers. This was not customary for men to do during the years the show was popular. What is the significance of the rings?
— Albert DeLay, Woodstock
A: O'Connor, who played Archie Bunker on "All in the Family" from 1971-79, wore his grandfather's diamond ring on the middle finger of his right hand for sentimental reasons, "People" reported in 1975. "I like the way it looks," he said. Internet Movie Database (IMDB.com) reported that O'Connor wore his wedding ring on the middle finger of his left hand. Bunker said in 1972 that he had his wedding ring sized to fit his middle finger for "balance."
Q: What is the current status of former Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon?
— Fred Smith, Tucker
A: Sharon, who was Israel's prime minister from 2001-06, has been in a coma since suffering a stroke in January 2006. He suffered an initial mild stroke on Dec. 18, 2005, and was to undergo surgery to repair a hole in his heart on Jan. 5, 2006. But Sharon had a more serious stroke the day before his procedure. Gilad Sharon told The New York Times last October that his father, who is now 84, responds to some requests to move his fingers. "I'm sure he hears me," Gilad said.
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).
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