Archives for February 2025

Have YOU heard about the explosive event aboard the USS Princeton that led to a presidential love story? Stay tuned to find out more, but first…

Today is National Chocolate Soufflé Day! This delightful dessert, with its rich, molten center and fluffy exterior, has been a staple in French cuisine since the 18th century. The word “soufflé” comes from the French verb “souffler,” meaning “to blow” or “to puff,” which perfectly describes this airy confection. So, why not indulge in a decadent chocolate soufflé today? THIS FACT COURTESY OF NATIONAL DAY CALENDAR DOT COM.

On February 28, 1953, scientists James Watson and Francis Crick announced they had discovered the double-helix structure of DNA. This groundbreaking revelation has been fundamental in advancing genetics and molecular biology, helping us understand the blueprint of life itself. It’s amazing to think that the secret to our genetic code was unveiled on this day!

On February 28, 1983, the beloved television series M*A*S*H aired its final episode, titled “Goodbye, Farewell, and Amen.” This two-and-a-half-hour special became the most-watched television broadcast in American history at the time, with over 105 million viewers tuning in. The show’s unique blend of humor and heart, set against the backdrop of the Korean War, left an indelible mark on television history. I actually remember watching this live in a community day room when I was in the US Army at Ft. Ben Harrison IN with several dozen other soldiers and remembering we were all sharing in something special together. Wow, 42 years ago, wild!

On this day in 1827, the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad (B&O) was incorporated, becoming the first commercial railroad in the United States. Designed to connect the port of Baltimore with the Ohio River, the B&O Railroad revolutionized transportation and commerce in America. Monopoly enthusiasts might recognize it as one of the game’s iconic properties! THIS FACT COURTESY OF ON THIS DAY DOT COM.

And now, the story you’ve been waiting for: on February 28, 1844, a tragic accident aboard the USS Princeton led to an unexpected presidential love story. During a pleasure cruise on the Potomac River, one of the ship’s massive cannons, “Peacemaker,” exploded, killing several dignitaries, including Secretary of State Abel P. Upshur. President John Tyler, who was on board but unharmed, found solace in Julia Gardiner, whose father also perished in the explosion. Their shared grief brought them closer, and they married just a few months later. Talk about finding love in unexpected places!

Let’s take a musical trip back to February 28, 1985. The #1 pop song on the Billboard Hot 100 was “Careless Whisper” by Wham! This soulful tune had everyone swaying, proving that some songs are truly timeless!

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Have YOU heard about the silent film star who accidentally made the world’s first feature-length comedy after getting carried away with too many pratfalls?… but first!

Talk about a sweet surprise! On this day in 1922, the Supreme Court ruled that baseball is NOT interstate commerce but a sport – all because the MLB was being sued over moving games across state lines. I guess you could say they really knocked that case out of the park! THIS FACT COURTESY OF ON THIS DAY DOT COM.

Today we’re celebrating National Strawberry Day! While February might seem like an odd time to celebrate these juicy gems, it’s actually when California starts their strawberry season. And get this – strawberries aren’t even technically berries! They’re part of the rose family. Berry interesting, right? THIS FACT COURTESY OF NATIONAL DAY CALENDAR DOT COM.

On this day in 1883, Oscar Hammerstein patented the first cigar-rolling machine. But here’s the twist – he’s actually the grandfather of the famous Broadway lyricist Oscar Hammerstein II! Talk about a family that really knew how to roll with the times!

Happy Birthday to Elizabeth Taylor, born on this day in 1932! Born with a rare condition that gave her double rows of eyelashes, she’s the only person to have been married eight times – twice to the same person! Now that’s what I call a romantic plot twist!

And here’s that hilarious movie mishap I teased earlier – On this day in 1914, Charlie Chaplin’s “Kid Auto Races at Venice” was released, accidentally becoming the world’s first feature-length comedy! Chaplin kept improvising more and more scenes, and the director just kept rolling. Sometimes the best things in life really are unplanned!

And on this day in 1982, “Centerfold” by The J. Geils Band was the #1 song on the Billboard Hot 100!

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Have YOU heard about the day Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show accidentally turned New York Harbor into the world’s biggest circus?… but first!

On this day in 1919, the Grand Canyon officially became a National Park! But here’s something they don’t tell you in the brochures – the first person to officially photograph the canyon, Timothy O’Sullivan, had to transport his entire darkroom by mule! Talk about a rocky road to getting the perfect shot!

Today we’re celebrating National Pistachio Day! These little nuts have been around for over 9,000 years, and they’re one of the only nuts mentioned in the Bible. They’re also known as the “smiling nut” in Iran because of their cracked-open shells. Now that’s something to smile about! THIS FACT COURTESY OF NATIONAL DAY CALENDAR DOT COM.

Happy Birthday to Johnny Cash, born on this day in 1932! The Man in Black started his working life picking cotton, and his first public performance was dressed as a woman in a school play. He went on to sell over 90 million records, proving he really knew how to “cash” in on his talents!

Talk about a sweet discovery – on this day in 1897, the first patent for an ice cream scoop was granted to Alfred L. Cralle. The best part? He designed it to be operated with one hand and work for both right and left-handed people. Now that’s what I call equal-scooportunity!

And here’s that wild story I teased earlier – On this day in 1886, Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show was heading to Europe when their ship got stuck in ice in New York Harbor. The cowboys and Native American performers ended up camping on deck for days, turning the frozen harbor into an impromptu western show! Ships passing by got the most unexpected entertainment of their lives!

And on this day in 1977, “New Kid in Town” by the Eagles was the #1 song on the Billboard Hot 100!

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Have YOU heard about the mysterious casket that took three hours to open, but when it finally did, it changed the way we see ancient Egypt forever?… but first!

Ever wonder why we call British people “Brits“? Well, on this day in 1570, Queen Elizabeth I was excommunicated by Pope Pius V, who called England “Britain” in his official declaration. The name stuck, and here we are, over 450 years later, still using it!

From NationalDayCalendar.com – Today is National Chocolate-Covered Peanuts Day! These bite-sized beauties have been delighting snackers since the early 1900s. Whether you call them Goobers, Bridge Mix, or just plain delicious, there’s no wrong way to enjoy this sweet and salty treat! THIS FACT COURTESY OF NATIONAL DAY CALENDAR DOT COM.

On this day in 1919, Oregon became the first state to tax gasoline – at a whopping one cent per gallon! I guess you could say they were really “fueling” the economy! The tax helped pave the way for better roads, literally!

Happy Birthday posthumously to someone who really knows how to bounce back – NBA legend Anthony Mason! Known for his tough defense and unique hairstyles, Mason played for six different teams and even had his barber cut designs into his hair during games. Now that’s what I call cutting-edge style!

And here’s that amazing Egyptian discovery I teased earlier – On this day in 1923, archaeologist Howard Carter opened the sealed doorway to King Tutankhamun’s burial chamber. After three painstaking hours of work, they finally got in, revealing the most complete ancient Egyptian royal tomb ever found. Talk about the ultimate unboxing video!

And on this day in 1984, “Jump” by Van Halen was the #1 song on the charts!

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Have YOU heard about the accidental invention that revolutionized modern medicine and saved countless lives by keeping things cool?… but first!

In 1938, a crucial step in the fight against one of humanity’s deadliest diseases happened right here in New York City. Dr. Max Theiler and his team developed the first successful yellow fever vaccine, marking a turning point in medical history. The vaccine would later earn him a Nobel Prize and save millions of lives worldwide.

On this day in 1582, Pope Gregory XIII introduced something we all use every single day – the Gregorian calendar! That’s right, the calendar hanging on your wall right now exists because a Pope decided the old Julian calendar needed a serious update. Talk about having too many dates to handle!

Here’s something that’ll make you say “tennis, anyone?” Tennis champion Lleyton Hewitt was born on this day in 1981. At just 20 years old, he became the youngest male ever to be ranked World No. 1 in singles. Now that’s what I call serving up success!

And now from NationalDayCalendar.com – February 24th is National Toast Day! Yes, a whole day dedicated to celebrating that perfectly browned slice of bread that makes everything better. From avocado toast to plain old butter and jam, it’s time to raise a toast… to toast! THIS FACT COURTESY OF NATIONAL DAY CALENDAR DOT COM.

Speaking of keeping things cool – on this day in 1925, thermostatic control was first used in a morgue. This invention by Mary Engle Pennington revolutionized food preservation and medical storage. Her cooling technology would go on to influence everything from your home refrigerator to vital medical storage systems.

And on this day in 1973, “Killing Me Softly with His Song” by Roberta Flack was the #1 song on the Billboard Hot 100!

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Have YOU heard about the time a dog became the mayor of a U.S. town? Yep, it happened—but first…

Today in 1878, the world got its very first **telephone directory**! It wasn’t a thick yellow book filled with ads—it was a single sheet of paper listing **fifty** businesses and individuals in New Haven, Connecticut. That’s right—just fifty. No phone numbers, either! People had to **ask the operator** to connect them. Imagine trying to order pizza that way today… **”Yes, operator, connect me to ‘Pizza Palace’—I need an emergency pepperoni delivery!”**

If you love **gooey, cinnamon-swirled goodness**, today is your day—it’s **National Sticky Bun Day!** These sweet, sticky treats date back centuries, with roots in Germany before making their way to America with Pennsylvania Dutch settlers. Fun fact: sticky buns were **Thomas Jefferson’s favorite pastry!** Maybe he wrote the Declaration of Independence on napkins while snacking on one. **THIS FACT COURTESY OF NATIONAL DAY CALENDAR DOT COM.**

In 1947, Edwin Land changed photography forever by introducing the **first Polaroid camera**. Before then, you had to wait **days** to see your photos—now, suddenly, people could snap a picture and **watch it develop in minutes**. This was **basically witchcraft** in the ’40s. Today, Polaroids are still popular, proving that even in the age of digital selfies, people love **shaking it like a Polaroid picture!**

In 1981, the town of Sunol, California, made **history** by electing a dog as mayor. **Meet Bosco Ramos**, a black Labrador-Rottweiler mix who **won a real election** and served for **ten years**! Bosco became a local celebrity, showing up at events, meeting visitors, and, we assume, **signing laws with his paw print.** And let’s be honest—he was probably **less corrupt** than most politicians.

On this day in 1948, NASCAR was officially founded, bringing high-speed thrills to America. The sport grew from **bootleggers** who souped up their cars to outrun the cops during Prohibition. So yeah—**NASCAR was literally founded by outlaws!** Who knew illegal moonshine running would lead to **Daytona 500 glory?**

#1 Billboard Song – February 21, 1998 **Nice & Slow” by Usher.

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Have YOU heard about the opera that caused a riot in Rome? But first…

On February 20, 1816, Gioachino Rossini’s opera “The Barber of Seville” premiered in Rome. The debut was a disaster, with audiences hissing and jeering, leading to an on-stage commotion. However, after this rocky start, the opera became one of the most beloved comic operas of all time. Talk about a dramatic turnaround!

Today is National Love Your Pet Day! It’s the perfect occasion to pamper your furry, feathered, or scaly friends. Whether it’s an extra treat, a long walk, or some cozy cuddles, show your pets some extra affection today. After all, they give us unconditional love every day. THIS FACT COURTESY OF NATIONAL DAY CALENDAR DOT COM.

On this day in 1962, astronaut John Glenn became the first American to orbit the Earth aboard Friendship 7. He circled the globe three times during a five-hour mission, marking a significant milestone in the Space Race. Glenn’s bravery and pioneering spirit continue to inspire generations of explorers.

Did you know that on February 20, 1872, Silas Noble and J.P. Cooley patented the first toothpick manufacturing machine? This invention revolutionized dental hygiene and dining etiquette, making toothpicks widely available. It’s a small tool, but it made a big impact!

Today, we celebrate the birth of Sidney Poitier, born on February 20, 1927. In 1964, Poitier won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in “Lilies of the Field,” becoming the first African American to win the award. His groundbreaking performances and dignified roles paved the way for future generations of actors.

On February 20, 1988, the #1 song on the Billboard Hot 100 was “Seasons Change” by Exposé. This pop ballad captured the hearts of many with its smooth harmonies and reflective lyrics.

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Have YOU heard about the explosive event that rocked South America on this day? We’ll uncover the fiery details in our final segment. But first…

On February 19, 1878, Thomas Edison was granted a patent for his cylinder phonograph. This invention allowed people to record and reproduce sound for the first time, revolutionizing the way we experience music and communication. Imagine the amazement of hearing a recorded voice for the first time!

Today, we celebrate National Lash Day, a day dedicated to appreciating the beauty and significance of eyelashes. Whether they’re natural or enhanced, lashes play a crucial role in protecting our eyes and expressing emotions. So, give your lashes some love today! COURTESY OF NATIONAL DAY CALENDAR DOT COM

In 842 AD, the Medieval Iconoclastic Controversy concluded as a council in Constantinople formally reinstated the veneration of icons in churches. This decision ended a significant dispute within the Byzantine Empire over the use of religious images, shaping the future of Christian worship practices.

On February 19, 1981, former Beatle George Harrison was found to have “subconsciously plagiarized” the song “He’s So Fine” by The Chiffons in his hit “My Sweet Lord.” He was ordered to pay $587,000 in damages, highlighting the complexities of musical inspiration and originality.

On this day in 1600, the Peruvian stratovolcano Huaynaputina (hoo-why-nah-pah-tina) erupted in the most violent explosion in South American recorded history. The eruption had significant climatic effects, leading to a global temperature decrease and causing famines in Russia due to crop failures.

On February 19, 2005, the #1 song on the Billboard Hot 100 was “Let Me Love You” by Mario. This smooth R&B track dominated the charts and became one of the best-selling singles of the year.

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Have YOU heard today is a big day in bovine history – but first…

Today is **National Battery Day!** You probably don’t think much about these little power packs until your remote dies at the worst possible moment, but did you know the very first battery was invented by an Italian scientist named Alessandro Volta in 1800? Yep, that’s why we measure electric potential in **volts!** Without him, we wouldn’t have our beloved AA batteries, car batteries, or that weird drawer in your kitchen full of half-used ones. **THIS FACT COURTESY OF NATIONAL DAY CALENDAR DOT COM!**

On this day in **1930,** Pluto was discovered by astronomer Clyde Tombaugh. For decades, it was our ninth planet… until **2006,** when it got *demoted* to “dwarf planet” status. Poor Pluto—imagine showing up to work one day and finding out you don’t *technically* belong anymore! Scientists might argue about its classification, but deep down, we all know Pluto is still a planet *in our hearts.*

Here’s a *moo-ving* piece of history—on February 18, **1624,** the very first **cow** arrived in the United States! The first cattle in Plymouth Colony arrived in 1624, brought by Edward Winslow, three heifers and a bull, this bovine beauty changed agriculture forever. Fast forward to today, and the U.S. is home to **over 9 million dairy cows** producing milk, cheese, and yes, ice cream. So next time you enjoy a cheeseburger, thank that first pioneering cow!

Have YOU heard about the **first cow to fly in an airplane**? That’s right, on **February 18, 1930**, a **Guernsey cow named Elm Farm Ollie** made history as the first bovine to take to the skies!

But this wasn’t just any old joyride—oh no! Elm Farm Ollie was part of a **scientific experiment** to study the effects of high-altitude travel on livestock. And while soaring through the sky, she didn’t just sit back and enjoy the in-flight entertainment… she **produced milk right there on the plane!**

To make this even more legendary, the milk was then **parachuted down** to spectators on the ground. Imagine looking up and seeing **cartons of fresh milk raining from the heavens!**

So, the next time you’re on a flight complaining about legroom, just remember—**at least you’re not a cow making dairy history at 5,000 feet!**

Today, hip-hop legend **Dr. Dre** celebrates his birthday! Born **February 18, 1965,** Dre revolutionized rap music, launched major careers like Snoop Dogg and Eminem, and brought us beats so good they practically require *mandatory head-bobbing.*

#1 Song on February 18, 1993
On this day in 1993, the **#1 song on the Billboard Hot 100** was *”I Will Always Love You”* by **Whitney Houston.** A classic, heart-wrenching power ballad that’s still impossible to sing without feeling dramatic.

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Have YOU heard about the basketball legend who got cut from his high school team but went on to become the GOAT? Talk about a JUMP shot to success!… but first!

On this day in 1934, the first high school “driver’s ed” class was offered at State College High School in Pennsylvania. You could say they really got the WHEEL rolling on education! Before this, people just jumped in cars and hoped for the best – talk about a CRASH course in driving! The class used a single 1929 Graham-Paige sedan donated by a local dealership. I guess you could say this class really put students in the driver’s SEAT of learning!

Today is Random Acts of Kindness Day, and I’m not just being NICE when I say that! Scientific studies show that performing kind acts releases oxytocin, the “love hormone.” So when you’re nice to others, you’re basically giving yourself a FREE happiness boost! I guess you could say kindness really is the GIFT that keeps on giving! THIS FACT COURTESY OF NATIONAL DAY CALENDAR DOT COM.

On February 17, 1972, the Volkswagen Beetle officially became the world’s most-produced car, surpassing the Ford Model T’s previous record of 15,007,034 units. I guess you could say they really BUG-ged the competition! The little car that could just kept rolling – talk about having some serious BEETLE power!

Today in 1904, Madame Butterfly premiered at La Scala in Milan, Italy. And boy, did it cause quite a FLUTTER! The first performance was actually considered a FLOP-eretta (get it?), but composer Giacomo Puccini wasn’t about to let his work WING it! He revised it, and three months later, it became the masterpiece we know today. Talk about a CHRYSALIS to butterfly transformation!

And here’s the birthday fact you’ve been waiting for! On February 17, 1963, Michael Jordan bounced into this world in Brooklyn, New York – and basketball would never be the same! Despite being cut from Laney High School’s varsity team as a sophomore, he grew to be 6’6″ and, well, you know the rest! Six NBA championships, five MVP awards, and he even starred in Space Jam! I guess you could say he really SLAM DUNKED his way into history! That’s what happens when you don’t let rejection get you DOWN COURT!

And on this day in 1996, the #1 song on the Billboard Hot 100 was “One Sweet Day” by Mariah Carey and Boyz II Men, and it ended up spending 16 weeks in the top spot!

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