ON THIS DAY

• On this date in 1602, Englishman Batholomew Gosnold discovered Cape Cod. 
• You can probably understand why he didn't name it after himself. 
• His first question was, "What are all those fish called?" 
• His exact words when he first saw it: "Oh, my Cod!" 

In 1930, Ellen Church became the very first flight attendant for United Airlines.

• She even had the honor of throwing out the first passenger! 
• Plus, when people flew, they could consider it this week's visit to Church. 
• Church pondered legally changing her name to Ellen House of Worship. 
• She spent time figuring out her role. For example, first thing she said to the passengers was, "Coffee, tea or get out?" 

On this date in 1940, the first pair of Nylon stockings went on sale in the U.S. You pick the next line:

• Not surprising, there was a run on them... and they sold quickly, too. 
• In no time at all, there was a run on 'em. 
• FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover immediately confiscated them and said, "I'll be in my office." 
• Up until then, bank robbers had to wear masks. 

On this date in 1942, gasoline rationing went into effect in 17 states. Each driver was allotted three gallons a week... which, these days, is all I can afford!

In 1963, Judy Garland's last film, "I Could Go On Singing," opened. Of course, she didn't.

TODAY IS

As of noon, we're mid-way through May.

Jamie-Lynn Sigler who played Meadow on "The Sopranos" turns 36 today. Bambi's mom always told him to stay away from her.

David Krumholtz is 39. Who? He played Bernard the head elf in "The Santa Claus." Remember, there are no small parts, just actors with small parts.

Former Dallas Cowboys running back Emmitt Smith turns 48 today. He really needs to slow down and enjoy life. He's always rushing. Then again, he's the NFL's greatest all-time rusher.

Former baseball pitcher John Smoltz turns the big 5-0 today. He got that name from the sound the ball made when it hit the catcher's glove -- "Smoltz!"

Lee Horsley, a name from the past (remember "Matt Houston") turns 62 today. Even if you don't remember "Matt Houston", he still turns 62. Everyone in Houston right now is going, "Who's Matt?"

Mike Oldfield, who gave us "Tubular Bells" (the theme from the Exorcist) turns 64.

• The movie featured a little girl, possessed by the devil, who could really turn heads. 
• The devil you say... yes. 
• He was the composer of "Tubular Bells." I wonder what possessed him to do that. 
• I wonder what ever possessed him to write it? 

Madeleine Albright turns the big 8-0 today. She was Bill Clinton's Secretary of State... and was once considered as our 51st state.