ON THIS DAY

On this date in 1812, George Clinton became the first U.S. vice president to die in office:

• That's a tough way to make it into the history books.
• He became the other Clinton famous for something unfortunate happening in the White House.
• Ironically, Clinton choked on an intern.
• Tough way to get a spot in the book. At least he led a good life and upheld the good family name of Clinton... for the next 180 years.
• Since vice presidents don't do that much, it took over a month to realize it.

The territory of Wisconsin was established on this date in 1836 so congressman could explain better where to get really good cheese.

In 1861, a man began a 900-mile trip across America in a hot air balloon. He felt it would be faster than waiting for Jet Blue to be invented. He was right, but just barely.

On this date in 1912, Fenway Park in Boston opened up.

• It was a big day for Red Sox and Yankees Sucks.
• Until then, it had been pretty shy.
• The first pitch was thrown out by the ambassador from China, Yang Kee Suk.
• There were Green Monsters before Stephen King came along.
• Back then the crowds were kinder... for example, the big cheer was "Yankees mildly inhale."
• Back then, the Green Monster was just a little Gremlin.

In 1940 RCA publicly demonstrated its new and powerful electron microscope. Why they used a microscope to encourage people to elect Ron is beyond me.

On this date in 1987, the North Pole is reached by motorcycle. After arriving, the driver's first question: "So, uh, where's the gas station?"