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Good Question: Reply All: MLB Start Times, Corn Silk, 'Ski-U-Mah'

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) - Judy from Minneapolis wants to know: Why do MLB games start at 10 minutes after the hour instead of on the hour?

According to Twins spokesman Kevin Smith, the start time are to accommodate radio and television networks that come on the air at the top of the hour. It gives them time to set up the game, welcome everyone and sometimes take a commercial break.

The differences in starting times (7:05, 7:07, 7:10, for example) have to do with different relationships between networks and teams.
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Sarah from New Hope asked: What is the purpose of silk on corn cobs?

According to the Iowa Corn Growers Association, the silks are essential for fertilization. They carry pollen to sites on a developing ear of corn, helping to develop the kernels.

But if it's too hot, the silks can dry out, preventing kernels from developing and causing gaps on the ear.
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Dennis wanted to know: What is the origin of the U of M slogan "Ski-U Mah"?

According to the University of Minnesota, "Ski-U-Mah" has been a Gophers cheer since an 1884 rugby game. The school's athletics website says "Ski" comes from a Dakota battle cry meaning "victory," while "U-Mah" is for the U of M.

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