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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Today’s show is of course full of mushy love and sweet stuff for 2/14, but it’s also a notable birthday, who’s? Hold on to your sweetheart but first…

Today, of course, is Valentine’s Day! While we all know it as a day for flowers, chocolates, and love, it wasn’t always quite so commercialized. The holiday is named after Saint Valentine, a priest in ancient Rome who performed secret weddings for couples during a time when the emperor had outlawed marriage for young men. His acts of love led to his martyrdom, and Valentine was eventually canonized. So, if you’re celebrating today, you’re paying tribute to a man who truly believed in love!

It’s also National Cream-Filled Chocolate Day, a delicious reason to indulge in your favorite creamy, chocolaty treats! From chocolate truffles to chocolate-covered creams, the combination of rich chocolate and smooth cream has been a beloved pairing for generations. Whether you like your chocolate dark, milk, or white, today’s the perfect day to dig in!

Did you know that the first Valentine’s card was sent way back in 1415? Charles, Duke of Orleans, sent a handwritten poem to his wife while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London. It’s believed to be the first known Valentine, and it shows that love, no matter the century, has always found a way to express itself—through poetry, cards, and of course, chocolate!

And here’s a cute little fact for you: lovebirds, the small, colorful parrots, are actually a species of bird known for their strong, affectionate pair bonds. These birds often sit close to one another, feed each other, and even share a sweet little kiss now and then. So yes, when someone says “lovebirds,” they’re not just talking about couples—they’re referring to real, feathered friends!

The #1 song on Saturday, February 14th 2015 was Uptown Funk by Mark Ronson featuring Bruno Mars.

Today, we also celebrate the birthday of Frederick Douglass, born on February 14th, 1818. Douglass was a former slave who became one of the most prominent abolitionists in the 19th century, fighting for the rights and freedom of African Americans. His autobiography and speeches continue to inspire people worldwide to strive for equality and justice. A true pioneer for freedom!

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There is famous tower that actually gets taller and then shorter – I’ll tell you which, later in the show – but first…

February 13th is National Tortellini Day! These little pasta pockets of joy have been loved for centuries, originally hailing from the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy. Tortellini can be stuffed with all sorts of fillings, from cheese to meat to herbs, and it’s usually served in broth or with a creamy sauce. So, if you’ve got some in the pantry, today’s the perfect day to cook up a batch and celebrate!

February 13th also happens to be Galentine’s Day! Popularized by the show Parks and Recreation, it’s a day for celebrating your best female friends—whether you’re single or in a relationship. It’s all about showing appreciation for those close bonds with brunch, gifts, or just a good old-fashioned girls’ night out. Grab your besties and celebrate how awesome they are!

Let’s also wish a happy birthday to actress Stockard Channing, born on February 13th, 1944. Best known for her iconic role as Rizzo in Grease, Stockard has built an impressive career on stage and screen. Fun fact: She was in her 30s when she played the high school student Rizzo. Talk about being young at heart!

The #1 song on Friday, February 13th 1976 was 50 Ways to Leave Your Lover by Paul Simon.

Here’s a fun little fact: The Eiffel Tower can grow up to 6 inches taller during the summer! This happens because the iron expands in the heat. So, if you’re visiting Paris and the tower seems a bit taller than usual, just know you’re not imagining things!

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February 12th is a day for celebrating a fella that really got things done honestly – I’ll explain who that is later in the show – but first…

Today is National Plum Pudding Day! But here’s the thing—this holiday isn’t about the fruity, chocolatey treats we often picture today. The original plum pudding, also known as Christmas pudding, is a rich, steamed dessert made with suet, dried fruits, and spices, and it has roots going all the way back to medieval England. So, next time you’re enjoying some plum pudding, just remember: You’re eating history… with a side of sugar.

February 12th, 1920, marked the first public radio broadcast in the U.S. from Pittsburgh! The station, KDKA, broadcasted the results of the 1920 presidential election, and the rest, as they say, is radio history. Who knew that something as simple as hearing “Your vote counts” over the airwaves could spark the beginning of a communications revolution? Just remember—next time you’re listening to your favorite podcast, thank those early radio pioneers!

Actress Christina Ricci, born February 12th, 1980! Known for her roles in The Addams Family, Sleepy Hollow, and Casper, Ricci became a cultural icon of the ‘90s. Fun fact: She was only 9 years old when she played Wednesday Addams! And no, she wasn’t scary at all—unless you count the way she delivered those perfectly deadpan lines.

The #1 song on Sunday, February 12th 1967 was I’m a Believer by The Monkees.

Today is the birthday of one of the most iconic U.S. presidents—Abraham Lincoln! Born on February 12th, 1809, Honest Abe helped guide the country through the Civil War, abolished slavery, and delivered the famous Gettysburg Address. And, if you’ve ever wondered how tall he was, Lincoln stood at 6 feet 4 inches, making him one of the tallest presidents in U.S. history. Talk about standing tall in the face of adversity!

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February 11th is a day for drying those tears – I’ll explain why later in the show – but first…

Today, we also celebrate the birthday of Hollywood legend Burt Reynolds! Born on February 11th, 1936, Burt’s famous for his roles in Smokey and the Bandit and The Longest Yard. Fun fact: He once famously turned down the role of James Bond, saying, “I wouldn’t want to wear a tuxedo for the rest of my life!” Which, let’s be honest, might have been the most Bond thing he ever said.

If you’re a fan of minty treats, then today is your day to celebrate. It’s National Peppermint Patty Day! It’s a day to recognize the famous peppermint-flavored candy with a chocolate coating. Just like that fresh breath feeling you get after eating one, this holiday’s all about a little “zing” of minty freshness in your life.

On February 11, 2008, in the town of Bethel, Maine, the world’s largest snowman was built! Standing a towering 122 feet tall, it was called Olympia and was built by a group of volunteers. You know what they say—when life gives you snow, build a giant snowman that’s bigger than most of your problems.

The #1 song on Thursday, February 11th 1999 was Baby One More Time by Britney Spears.

Today is National Don’t Cry Over Spilled Milk Day! A day to remind ourselves that life’s little mishaps are no reason to get upset. The saying originates from the idea that once milk is spilled, there’s no point in crying over it because it can’t be undone. But if you spill your coffee? I think that’s a legitimate reason for a mini-meltdown. Am I right?

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Today on February 10th there is really something to get fired up about – I’ll explain why later in the show – but first…

Hey gang, Troy W. Hudson, the Voice Over with Personality! Welcome to Have YOU heard? It’s February 10th, and we’re going to make it RAIN with knowledge because it’s National Umbrella Day!

Speaking of staying dry, here’s a fact that’ll make you say “Um-brella-vable!” The first waterproof fabric was patented by Scottish chemist Charles Macintosh in 1823. But get this – he accidentally discovered it while working with waste products from gasworks! Talk about turning trash into treasure! I guess you could say he really knew how to WEATHER success!

Oh, and here’s something that’ll really blow your circuits – on this day in 1996, IBM’s supercomputer Deep Blue made history by defeating world chess champion Garry Kasparov in their first game! I guess you could say Kasparov got CHECKED by technology! Though don’t worry, he went on to win the overall match 4-2!

Here’s something that’ll really switch on your interest – today’s also the birthday of the legendary Jimmy Durante, born in 1893! This amazing comedian and performer was known for his distinctive nose, which he nicknamed his “schnozzola.” He really NOSE how to make people laugh!

The #1 song on Tuesday, February 10th 1953 was: Don’t Let the Stars Get in Your Eyes by Perry Como.

On this day in 1863, the first fire extinguisher patent was granted in Virginia? Talk about a invention that really helped people EXTINGUISH their problems! The inventor, Alanson Crane, really knew how to turn up the heat on safety!

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Have YOU heard?

On February 7th, 1984 a real life space rocketeer was jetpacking in outer space – I’ll tell you the out of this world details later, but first …

Did you know that today marks National Periodic Table Day? Now, you might think this is just about that chart hanging in your chemistry classroom, but there’s an incredible story behind it. Back in 1869, a Russian scientist named Dmitri Mendeleev did something revolutionary – he organized all known elements in a way that not only made sense of their properties but actually predicted elements that hadn’t been discovered yet! Imagine being so confident in your work that you leave gaps in it, saying “Trust me, we’ll find these later.” And guess what? He was right!

Have you heard that on this day in 1817, the first public gas street lights were installed in Baltimore, Maryland. Before this innovation, cities were pitch dark at night except for occasional oil lamps. These gas lights transformed urban life, making it safer to travel after sunset and essentially creating nightlife as we know it. Think about that next time you’re walking down a well-lit street at night!

And speaking of light, here’s a delightful fact about Charles Dickens, who was born on this day in 1812. The famous author was actually one of the first people to use the word “boredom” in print! That’s right – before Dickens came along, people apparently didn’t get bored… or at least didn’t have a word for it. He helped shape the English language while telling unforgettable stories that still captivate readers today.

Have you heard?
Around the US, National Girls and Women in Sports Day is recognized by schools, organizations, and teams during the first week of February. Athletics play an important role in girls’ lives. Besides helping to establish a routine for a healthy, active lifestyle, sports build confidence, leadership skills, and the ability to work with a team.

Women who participated in sports in school are more likely to graduate from college. According to an EY study, women increase their odds of landing leadership positions when they have a background in athletics.

The #1 song on February 7th 1974 was The Way We Were by Barbra Streisand.

And finally…

On this day in 1984, astronaut Bruce McCandless made history by becoming the first human to float freely in space without any tethers. Picture this: you’re 170 miles above Earth, equipped with nothing but a nitrogen-powered jetpack called the Manned Maneuvering Unit. McCandless ventured 320 feet away from the Space Shuttle Challenger, literally becoming a human satellite! This breakthrough showed us that astronauts could potentially rescue damaged satellites or help build space stations.

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Have YOU heard?

It’s February 6th, the day the most famous board game in the world was first sold? If you can guess what it was then you can pass go and collect – , I’ll give you the details later but first…

Have you heard today is Optimist Day since it’s the First Thursday in February. Optimist day recognizes the volunteers and the youth who support their communities in many different ways. Every day, our growing communities rely on the ingenuity and energy of the next generation to be a vital part of our neighborhoods, schools, and towns. These young volunteers and the mentors who guide them connect them to the greater world around us. Their stewardship creates a hopeful future for us all.

And here’s something that’ll make you and Winnie the Pooh think differently about your honey jars – pure honey never spoils! The science behind this is absolutely fascinating. Honey has such low moisture content and high acidity that bacteria and microorganisms can’t survive in it. Plus, bees add an enzyme that produces hydrogen peroxide, creating a natural preservative. That’s why archaeologists have found 3,000-year-old honey in ancient Egyptian tombs that’s still perfectly good to eat!

Have you heard the human brain processes around 70,000 thoughts per day? That’s about 49 thoughts per minute! Your brain cells are firing away at incredible speeds, sending electrical signals that travel up to 268 miles per hour. Just think about that – while I’m telling you this fact, your brain has already processed dozens of thoughts – and hopefully they’ve all been nice ones!

The #1 country song on Tuesday, February 6th 1968 was Skip A Rope by Henson Cargill

And finally –
90 years ago today in 1935, Parker Brothers began selling a little game called Monopoly. But here’s what makes this story incredible: the game was actually created as a teaching tool! Elizabeth Magie designed the original version, called “The Landlord’s Game,” to demonstrate the economic principles of Henry George and show how monopolies can hurt society. Isn’t it wild how a teaching tool became one of the world’s most beloved board games?

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Have you heard that February 5th honors a profession that some say is as much guessing as it is science? I’ll tell you what it is in due time – but first…

Speaking of TIME – On this day in 1924 – 101 years ago today the Royal Greenwich Observatory started broadcasting the first TIME signals from the famous Greenwich MEAN Time! I guess you could say they were pretty MEAN about keeping everyone on schedule!

And hold onto your sweet tooth, because today is also World Nutella Day! This chocolatey-hazelnut spread was invented in Italy, and it become a global sensation! Did you know the first jar was sold in 1964 over 60 years ago? Talk about spreading joy!

Oh, and here’s something that’ll make your jaw drop faster than a METEORITE – on this day in 1971, astronauts Alan Shepard and Edgar Mitchell walked on the moon during Apollo 14! They spent 33 hours on the lunar surface, which is a pretty LONG moonwalk – eat your heart out, Michael Jackson!

Have you heard that female monarch butterflies can lay up to 500 eggs at one time! Talk about having your wings full with the kids!

The #1 song on February 5th 1962 was Peppermint Twist – Part I by Joey Dee and the Starliters.

And finally…
February 5th is National Weatherperson’s Day (also known as National Weatherman’s Day) it honors all individuals working in meteorology, weather forecasting, and broadcast meteorology. The day also recognizes volunteer storm spotters, observers, and others who work in the weather field. This annual holiday commemorates the birthday of John Jeffries, born on this day in 1744. Dr. Jeffries, a scientist and a surgeon, is considered one of America’s first weather observers. He kept weather records from 1774 to 1816. Additionally, Jefferies pioneered the field of ballooning in the United States and took his first balloon observation in 1784.

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