ON THIS DAY

On this date in 1626 Dutch explorer Peter Minuit landed on what is now Manhattan Island. Even then, it was tough to find a place to park.
  • It was impressive for two reasons -- one, that it was part of a brand-new world never seen before by white settlers and two, he was able to actually find a place to park. 
  • He was the first international explorer to be flipped off by a cabbie. 
  • Even back then, he couldn't afford to live there. 
  • Minuit bought the island of Manhattan from the Indians for $24 in trinkets. Actually, it was $22 for the island and $2 in closing costs. 
  • Actually, back then it was an island, too... but they didn't name it Manhattan until the drink came along. We think. 

In 1776, Rhode Island went ahead and declared independence from England, two months before the Declaration of Independence was actually adopted. Just slightly ahead of their time.

It was on this date in 1886 The Gramophone, the first practical phonograph, was patented. So he didn't feel left out, the inventor also invented the Grampa phone.

On this date in 1927, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts And Sciences was founded. The director had just started a great speech, when the orchestra began playing and he had to cut it short. Or, up until that point, when an actor won an award, they had no one to thank.

In 1932, Al Capone went to jail on income tax evasion charges. Ironically, he was assigned to the H and R block

On this date in 1973, Valerie Perrine appeared in the nude on PBS's "Steambath." Of course, these days, we'd all prefer more steam!

In 1976, Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Fraser announced that "Waltzing Matilda" would serve as his country's national anthem at the upcoming Olympic Games. Apparently "Tie me kangaroo down, sport" had a previous commitment.

On this date in 1987 the U.S. Supreme Court rules that Rotary Clubs must admit women.
  • Well as members, not just performers. 
  • Actually, they had allowed women in before, but through the back door. 
  • Ironically, it wasn't until women joined the Rotary Club that the first spinning class was held. 



TODAY IS

Of course, it's "Star Wars Day." May the 4th... be with you.

It's Cinco de Mayo Eve!

Lance Bass of 'N Sync turns 39 today. Only one year away from saying, "Bye! Bye! Bye!" to his 30s. So, when does a Boy Band become a Man Band?

Erin Andrews, sports reporter and Dancing With The Stars co-host, gets a 4-0, 4-0 and 4-0 from the judges today.

Mike Dirnt of Green Day is 46. I'd say "he's the odd one" but that wouldn't help.

Will Arnett turns 48 today. He's Amy Poehler's ex (really wanted that one to work out) and he's also Batman. Well, LEGO Batman.

Country singer Randy Travis turns 59 today. No explaining how. Mr. "Forever and Ever" is getting down to just "and ever!"

Pia Zadora turns 65, a year for every inch tall.

Jackie Jackson, one of the least known and most repetitive of the Jackson Five, turns 67 today. He'd be the LaToya of the Jackson family if there wasn't already one.

George Will turns 77. He's a political columnist who makes the FOX News Network look liberal.

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