National Day Calendar: Recent Episodes
Q1 Network
Stay informed with fun facts and stories about what National Days we are celebrating today. Features Singer / Songwriter Anna Devere and the founder of National Day Calendar, Marlo Anderson.
This episode takes us on a delightful journey as we celebrate National Bagelfest Day, savoring the scrumptious variety of bagels, and National Aunt and Uncle's Day, recognizing the special role our aunts and uncles play in our lives. Join Marlo Anderson on Destination: Celebration, where we dig into these diverse celebrations and their intriguing origins."
Get ready for a delightful journey on this episode of Destination: Celebration as we commemorate National Wine and Cheese Day and National Merry-Go-Round Day. We'll explore the classic pairing of wine and cheese, tracing back to its European roots, and savoring the many ways this combo enhances our culinary experiences. Additionally, we’ll celebrate the timeless joy of merry-go-rounds and their historical significance in amusement parks. Join Marlo Anderson in this swirl of taste and nostalgia.
Dive into this episode of Destination: Celebration as we celebrate National Cousins Day and National Tequila Day. We'll share heartwarming stories about the unique bond shared with cousins, exploring how these relationships shape our lives. We also toast to Tequila Day, tracing the rich history of this spirit from Mexico's blue agave fields to our favorite margarita recipes. Join your host, Marlo Anderson, on this journey of family bonds and festive spirits.
Tune in to Destination: Celebration as we honor National Vanilla Ice Cream Day and National Parents Day. We'll be exploring the history of classic vanilla ice cream, from its royal origins to its place in the hearts of ice cream lovers worldwide. Following this cool treat, we pay tribute to the role of parents in our lives, appreciating their sacrifices and relentless love on this special day. Hosted by Marlo Anderson, this episode promises a mix of sweet stories and heartfelt recognition.
Join us on Destination: Celebration as we dive into the delightful world of mangos on National Mango Day and embrace the serene pleasure of hammocks on National Hammock Day. Discover the luscious journey of mangos, from ancient cultivation to becoming the most widely consumed fruit in the world. Then, sway into the history of hammocks and how they've evolved from survival gear to symbols of leisure and relaxation. Don't miss out on this flavorful and relaxing journey hosted by Marlo Anderson.
Join us on Destination: Celebration as we indulge in tasty tidbits for National Junk Food Day and explore the inspirational National Be Someone Day. Discover the origins of our guilty pleasures and learn how a simple act of kindness can make a world of difference. Don't forget to keep celebrating with your host Marlo Anderson.
On July 20, we travel back in time to the historic Apollo 11 mission and delve into the strategic world of chess. Celebrate National Moon Day as we revisit the iconic moment when Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin took humanity's first steps on the lunar surface. Then, we honor International Chess Day, learning about the origins and evolution of this timeless game. Join Marlo Anderson as we navigate these fascinating events that have left lasting impacts on our world.
This July 19, 2023, we're blending up a storm for National Daiquiri Day and grilling up a feast for National Hot Dog Day. Join co-hosts Kai Brant and Marlo Anderson as they delve into the flavorful histories of these two beloved treats, from the serendipitous invention of the daiquiri by Jennings Cox to the iconic status of hot dogs in American culture. And let's not forget, it's also Global Hug Your Kids Day. So gather the family for a day filled with scrumptious food, refreshing beverages, and lots of love on our journey to Celebrate Every Day on Destination Celebration.
Welcome to the intriguing pairing of National Sour Candy Day and National Caviar Day on July 18, 2023. We're taking a flavor trip from the tangy twists of Sour Punch Straws, a favorite candy that revolutionized the world of sweets, to the luxurious delicacy of caviar, a once plentiful treat that became a symbol of opulence. Join Marlo Anderson as we savor the varied tastes that life offers on Destination: Celebration.
From Digital Emoticons to Skin Art: Celebrating Forms of Self-Expression In this episode of National Day Calendar, we're celebrating July 17, 2023, which marks World Emoji Day and National Tattoo Day. We delve into the world of emojis, those little digital symbols that have revolutionized our communication, and celebrate the Japanese engineer who gave them a worldwide stage. Then we explore the ancient art of tattooing, a form of expression that has marked human skin for millennia and celebrates its National Day on the same date. Join host Marlo Anderson as we explore these diverse forms of self-expression and Celebrate Every Day on Destination: Celebration.
In this episode of the National Day Calendar, we're celebrating July 16, 2023, a day dedicated to National Corn Fritter Day and National Ice Cream Day. Join us as we delve into the southern staple of corn fritters, with their crispy golden exterior and soft, sweet corn-filled center. Then we take a cool journey into the world of ice cream, exploring how vanilla became the popular addition to a multitude of flavors. Our host, Marlo Anderson, brings you these delightful tales in our quest to Celebrate Every Day on Destination: Celebration.
Welcome to another exciting day on the National Day Calendar. This episode brings us to July 15, 2023, when we celebrate National Gummi Worm Day and National Give Something Away Day. We delve into the chewy, fruity history of the gummi worm, a candy cherished by children and adults alike. After our sweet sojourn, we embrace the spirit of generosity, giving away items to declutter our lives and bring joy to others. This episode is a reminder of the small actions that can bring a smile to our faces, be it through a sweet treat or a thoughtful act. Tune in with host Marlo Anderson as we Celebrate Every Day on Destination:
In this episode, we savor the scrumptious goodness of National Mac and Cheese Day. Trace the culinary journey of this creamy, cheesy delight from Thomas Jefferson's dining table to your own. We then pay homage to the humble French fry on National French Fry Day. Discover the pivotal role of McDonald's and J.R. Simplot in the creation of the beloved frozen fry, and see how Checkers/Rally's took fries to the next level. Join your host Marlo Anderson as we embark on this delicious journey to Celebrate Every Day.
In today's episode, we're diving into the harmonious world of National Barbershop Music Appreciation Day. From its humble beginnings in 19th-century barbershops to its place as a treasured form of American music, we'll explore the legacy and charm of this a cappella style. Then, we celebrate National Delaware Day, paying homage to the rich history, cultural diversity, and unique landscapes of our nation's first state, Delaware. Tune in with host Marlo Anderson as we continue to Celebrate Every Day.
This Day Will Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth. Welcome to July 12th, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate satisfying your sweet tooth and playing with your food and. Pecan pie has been a Southern favorite since the 1800s, though its origins are a bit of a mystery. It all began with a simple custard of sugar, eggs, nuts, sweet milk and flour in a recipe that was published as Texas Pecan Pie. A version of this pie can be traced to Louisiana in the early 1800s but the Texas version was published in 1897 and folks began copying it ever since. Then in the 1930s the wife of an executive at Karo syrup company was said to have discovered a new use for corn syrup. She claimed to be the creator of the recipe that is now printed on every bottle of Karo syrup. It might not be an actual conspiracy but on National Pecan Pie Day go ahead and celebrate your favorite recipe that sums up the phrase, as sweet as pie. Jello has been a popular dessert with families everywhere. What you may not know is that Jello also played a part in one of the most beloved movies of all time. In the Wizard of Oz, Dorothy and friends arrive at the Emerald City and meet the Horse of a Different Color. Because all film effects were practical at the time, the horse needed to be colored for each shot. Paint wasn’t a good choice because it would hurt the animal. But then someone came up with the idea to make a paste out of Jello powder and covered the horse’s body. This safe and easy solution was perfect—except for the fact that the horse kept licking it off between takes. On Eat Your Jello Day, it’s okay to celebrate by playing with your food! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Summer Fruit Is The Gold Standard! Welcome to July 11th, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a convenient Summer sip and the gold standard of Summer fruits. The granddaddy of all convenience stores got its start as an offshoot of Southland Ice Company. In 1927, the store that would become 7-Eleven opened its doors in Dallas, Texas. The idea was to sell eggs, milk, and bread, which would allow shoppers to avoid grocery stores if they only needed these food staples. By the late 1940s, the store set its hours as 7am to 11pm, giving it the name we all know today. Then in the 1960s, 7-Eleven changed its hours again—to 24-hours a day. Since then, this franchise has opened over 70,000 stores around the world, much to the delight of late-night snacker's everywhere. On National 7-Eleven Day, celebrate convenience and the perfect Summer escape... the Slurpee. Some people look forward to crops that are seasonal, and if you’re a fan of cherries then you’re most likely celebrating this one today. Named after Mount Rainier, this golden variety is a cross between Bing and Van cherries. Harry Fogle developed them at Washington State University in 1952 and folks have been gobbling them up ever since. The creamy yellow fruit is milder and more delicate than its bright red cousin and costs significantly more because it must be harvested by hand. About one third of the crops are also eaten by birds. But who can blame them! On National Rainier Cherry Day, celebrate the season’s gold standard with this prized Summer beauty! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Cocktail Has Its Own Hit Song. Welcome to July 10th, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate picture perfect pets and pineapples in paradise. When it comes to Instagram petfluencers, there are only a few animals in the same league as Nala Cat. And yes, a “petfluencer” is a real thing. With approximately 4.4 million followers, Nala Cat is the most famous feline on Instagram and possibly in the world. This adorable gray, Siamese-Persian mix with gorgeous blue eyes has captured the hearts of Social Media fans around the globe. But before she was a celebrity, Nala was a lonely kitten sitting in a shelter waiting for her forever home. On National Kitten Day celebrate your own future star, though you might want to honor their wishes for remaining purrfectly anonymous. The number one song from the 1970s is also today’s celebration drink, the pina colada. In the song, Rupert Holmes describes the story of a man who answers a lonely hearts classified ad, only to discover that his wife was the woman who placed it. The strange part is that the original lyrics began with, “If you like Humphrey Bogart and getting caught in the rain.” Holmes changed his lyrics at the last minute because he wanted to describe the woman’s longing for escape. He decided that the pina colada was the ultimate, island getaway. The other strange part is that the song is actually true except Holmes doesn’t like the drink. You don’t have to get caught in the rain to celebrate National Pina Colada Day, just pour yourself a vacation in a glass. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Car Was Featured In The Gladiator Arena of The Chicago World's Fair. Welcome to July 9th, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a classic sugar rush and cars that make our hearts beat faster. It’s believed that sugar cookies originated in the mid 1700s in Nazareth, Pennsylvania when German Protestant settlers created a round, crumbly butter cookie known as the Nazareth Cookie. During the Victorian era people thought that spices would overly excite children and thus tea cookies were made purposefully plain. They evolved into the perfect medium for shaping elaborate Christmas ornaments. But starting in the 1930s, baking soda and vanilla were added and sugar cookies disappeared before they could be hung. Today both young and old enjoy a good sugar rush, and the more ornate the better! On National Sugar Cookie Day, bake up a batch of the treats that make any day a holiday. The 1933 Chicago World’s Fair was billed as a Century of Progress Exposition. And one car was put to the test in a gladiator arena to demonstrate its safety: the 1934 Chrysler Airflow. This classic beauty thrilled a live audience with a staged life and death challenge. The track was watered down to create hydroplane danger. A camera crew was positioned dead center, at the end of this hazard and with their cameras rolling. The whole world watched as the hydraulic brakes and Goodyear tires pit man against machine. And with true dramatic flair, this champion stopped mere inches from the humans. On Collector Car Appreciation Day, check out some of these yesteryear champions. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
These Small Wonders Pack A Serious Punch. Welcome to July 8th, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate mighty fruits and staying cool. They say good things come in small packages and this is especially true of blueberries. Not only are they a popular fruit, blueberries are one of the healthiest things you can eat. This superfood provides more antioxidants than almost any other fruit or vegetable, and has been linked to reducing cholesterol. And while you could go on and on, the fact is blueberries are just plain delicious. There’s a reason why these juicy berries get a whole month of celebration. You don’t hear people getting excited about broccoli season. During National Blueberry Month check your local farmer’s market for this super snack or better yet, find a patch and pick your own. Flavored sugar water in a plastic tube hardly sounds like a crowd pleaser. But on a hot summer day, there are few things better than a freezer pop. These frozen treats have been around since the 1960s and are a staple for kids around the world who wanna stay cool. Fla-Vor-Ice is the most popular brand, but you may also know them as Otter Pops, Freezies, or even Zooper Doopers. And if you happen to live down under you probably don’t celebrate your Zooper Doopers till December, when it’s Summertime in Australia. In fact you might even leave a few out for Santa. The rest of us are keeping it cool by celebrating National Freezer Pop Day in July I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Founding Father Put Macaroni On The Map. Welcome to July 7th, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a Founding Father’s favorite and the old watering hole. Thomas Jefferson was a true renaissance man. The third United States President completed the Louisiana Purchase, founded the University of Virginia, and even invented the swivel chair. But one thing you may not know is that Jefferson introduced us to macaroni and cheese. He first tasted the dish while visiting France. Once Jefferson got home, he experimented with the recipe to get it just right. Unfortunately, not everyone gave his mac and cheese a thumbs up. Perhaps it was not the best dish to serve at a State dinner, but today folks give him credit for the popularity of the dish. On National Macaroni Day we celebrate this favorite comfort food and the Founding Father who stuck a feather in his hat and called it macaroni. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, dive bars got their name because of their location. Rather than their upscale cousins, these bars were set in the cellars and basements below restaurants. They gave drinkers a place to “dive” below street level and avoid the world for a bit. Since then, the term “dive bar” has evolved to mean any local bar that doesn’t put too much effort into the ambience. They’re just places to stop, relax, have a drink and chat with friends. On National Dive Bar Day celebrate your favorite watering hole, which might be in your own basement. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
There's No Need To Lose Your Head Over Fried Chicken. Welcome to July 6th, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate rolling out the good stuff and not getting fried over chicken. Before it was a delicacy, sushi was a staple food in the diets of poor fishermen. In the days before refrigeration, people discovered that they could preserve the fish by packing it in fermented rice. But unlike modern sushi, the rice was not eaten, as it was only meant to keep the fish from spoiling. Eventually, rice vinegar replaced the fermented rice. Since then, sushi has transformed into a delicacy, with many variations. But none has the unique flair of the hand roll. It uses the same ingredients as other rolls but hand rolls are not cut into pieces and they are meant to be eaten as soon as they are served. On National Hand Roll Day, try something new at your favorite sushi place. People are often passionate about their favorite foods, but it’s safe to say, never quite like this. Colonel Sanders was making a name for himself in the early 1930s in Kentucky. He owned a Shell gas station and set up a cafe nearby to serve his now-famous fried chicken to drivers who passed through town. Everyone seemed to love it, except for Matt Stewart, the owner of a Standard Oil gas station in the area. Stewart began painting over advertisements for the restaurant and Sanders went to confront him, which led to a gunfight. All over fried chicken. On National Fried Chicken Day, there’s no need to lose your head over this all American favorite. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Bathing Suit Caused Quite A Stir. Welcome to July 5th, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate making a splash and plain and simple treats. You may find it ironic that the guy who made graham crackers plain on purpose also preached against decadent desserts. Reverend Graham imagined the slightly sweetened cracker as a health food with whole wheat graham flour and added bran. The Presbyterian minister developed his cracker as part of the Graham Diet to curb sinful cravings. Little did he know that he had built the very foundation for cheesecakes and s’mores and other wicked good desserts. On National Graham Cracker Day give in to some guilty pleasures or celebrate responsibly with a simple glass of milk. In July of 1946, the United States tested a nuclear device at the Bikini Atoll in the South Pacific. The military operation caused quite a stir around the world. However, the truly explosive event from that week occurred a few days later when fashion designer Louis Réard debuted his newest creation, named after the tests—the bikini. To say that this two-piece women’s bathing suit caused a stir is a massive understatement. Several U.S. states banned women from wearing bikinis in public. Eventually, the outrage died down and today, you can find bikinis wherever there’s a beach or a pool. On National Bikini Day, chill out by feeling happy in the skin you’re in. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Fourth Of July Celebration Is One For The Books. Welcome to July 4th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate slow cooking by day and lighting up the night. While Independence Day is celebrated across the country today, one town holds the record for the longest running parade. Since 1785, Bristol, Rhode Island has boasted this unbroken tradition, with nearly 200,000 attendees from all over the world. The festivities begin on Flag Day or June 14th with soapbox races and outdoor concerts that continue throughout the month of June. This culminates on July 4th with the parade that commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Independence. From just about anywhere today you can see spectacular displays of fireworks and attend festivals and parades in your own neighborhood. No matter how you celebrate, Independence Day is a time to cherish freedom and to honor those who sacrificed to build our great Nation. Fireworks may take center stage tonight, but most of us celebrate with a barbecue. Technically what most of us do is grilling, that is cooking meat over a fire. Barbecue is cooking meat slowly over indirect heat or in a smoker. This tradition started in the American South, where farmers would try to use every bit of meat they could from the pigs they had raised. Some of the meat, such as between the ribs, was pretty tough to eat. But they found that cooking ribs slowly over indirect heat made the meat tender and succulent. The tastiest of these come from the belly, and are called spareribs. Today while we celebrate our Nation’s birthday we also enjoy a food that is uniquely American on National Barbecued Spareribs Day I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Bright Idea Was Worth A Lot Of Clams! Welcome to July 3rd, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate having the last laugh and slaying superstition. Sometimes a wisecrack can pay off big. For Chubby and Bessie Woodman it all started on July 3, 1916 in Essex, Massachusetts. The Woodmans sold groceries, fresh clams and potato chips from a small roadside stand. On this particular day, business was slow and a wise cracking fisherman suggested they fry up some clams. What started as a joke got the Woodmans thinking. Their homemade chips were already good, so they shucked a few clams, tried out different batters and the very next day they enjoyed the last laugh. The fried clams were an instant hit. And six generations later you can still visit Woodmans for this New England favorite. On National Fried Clam Day celebrate a bright idea worth more than a few clams. The Greek philosopher Pythagoras, who was also known as the father of geometry, was a strict vegetarian. He refused, however, to eat beans, which is the staple of most vegetable-based diets. The reason was based on superstition. He believed that beans, fava beans in particular, contained the souls of the dead. And he was so freaked out by beans that he wouldn’t touch them or walk through a bean field. And this was ultimately his downfall. Legend has it that Pythagoras was fleeing from soldiers when he came across a field of fava bean plants. Rather than run across to escape, he stopped in his tracks and was killed. On National Eat Your Beans Day, don’t be afraid to consume some legumes! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Might Be The Strangest Thing Ever Delivered By The Post Office. Welcome to July 1st, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate special deliveries come rain or shine. The United States issued its first postage stamps on July 1, 1847. They were not, however, the first of their kind. In the United Kingdom, the Penny Black stamp attempted to fix a broken system. Before then, mail recipients were good at dodging payment for this service. Here in America, a letter could be mailed without prepayment until 1855. Despite new regulations, people continued to take advantage of a system that charged only 15 cents for an 11-pound package. The strangest of these was a small baby that was delivered to his grandmother who lived a few miles away. Even the stork couldn’t compete with those prices! On National Postage Stamp Day celebrate a valuable service that still delivers come rain or shine. “Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night stays these couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds.” Everyone knows this is the motto for the United States Postal Service. Except…it isn’t. The Postal Service doesn’t actually have a motto. So where did this well-known phrase come from? It was written by Herodotus around 500 BCE to describe the postal carriers of his time. When the New York City Post Office opened in 1914, one of the designers liked the quote and had it engraved into the cornerstone. Today is National Postal Worker Day, when we celebrate the men and women who make sure all our letters and packages find their way to us. Except for the bills. We don’t mind if those get lost. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
Here's The Scoop On What's Playing Up In The Sky. Welcome to June 30th, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a show that’s outta this world and staying positively social. The Comet Swift-Tuttle is one of the largest extra-planetary objects in the solar system. Each year, this giant ball of ice and rock gives the people of Earth quite a show. Debris from the comet’s long tail plunges into our atmosphere at 37 miles per second and burns up. This creates spectacular meteor showers known as the Perseids, which are visible from late July through August. On nights when the moon isn’t as bright, sky watchers can see anywhere from 25-100 meteors per hour. But the Perseids aren’t the only show in town. On National Meteor Watch Day, peel yourself away from your phone or TV and look to the skies for some out of this world entertainment. Imagine a time when you couldn’t simply log into a website or app to see what your loved ones were doing. Remember when it was near impossible to stay in touch with those friends who moved away? Since the birth of social media these days are long behind us. And while you may not be a fan of everyone watching your every move, you must admit, social media has its place in keeping us connected. Sites like Facebook and LinkedIn have become a staple in our lives that most people can’t imagine living without. We all know the negative side it presents, and yet snail mail and phone calls are all the more special by comparison. On Social Media Day, take a moment to celebrate the positive side of this medium, and try ditching all of the rest. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Breakfast Food Inspired A Shoe! Welcome to June 29th, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate capturing the moment and a breakfast favorite that inspired a shoe. In 1838, Louis Daguerre set up his camera near the Boulevard du Temple in Paris. Then he took a picture. Today we are used to instant photos. Touch the button on your phone or camera and the picture is taken. But for Daguerre, the exposure time was nearly 10 minutes. This meant that if the subject wasn’t standing perfectly still it wouldn’t appear in the frame. For this reason, the busy Paris streets look abandoned in the photo. Except for one solitary figure in the lower left-hand corner: a man getting his boots shined. And this is the very first image of a human being caught on camera. On National Camera Day, be thankful that technology can now capture the moment. The waffle iron got its start in the Low Countries of the 14th century. These early metal plates heated over an open flame pressed images such as a coat of arms into batter. Something about all those extra nooks and crannies soaking up melted butter, syrup and jam can turn ordinary pancake batter into a special occasion. And for Nike Co-Founder Bill Bowerman, his wife’s waffle iron inspired a shoe. Bill used the pattern to design a running shoe that would grip the road while remaining lightweight. The “Moon Shoe” and “Waffle Trainer” set Nike apart in the 1970s and they’ve been out in the lead ever since. On National Waffle Iron Day, cook up your own inspiration. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Larger Than Life Lumberjack Carved A Legacy Of Tall Tales. Welcome to June 28th, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate peace of mind and tall tales. Just about everyone buys insurance in one form or another, most likely it’s for their cars or homes. But there’s one insurance company that does things a bit differently. Lloyd’s of London offers policies for things most of us wouldn’t even think to insure. For example, Bruce Springsteen insured his voice for $6 million. Keith Richards has his hands insured in case he’s no longer able to play guitar. Both Heidi Klum and David Beckham have insured their legs, though for different reasons. On National Insurance Awareness Day, take the time to review your policies and coverages. Insurance is something you think you’ll never need—until you do. Paul Bunyan first appeared in print in 1906. But it wasn’t until 1914 that a logging company advertisement made the lumberjack with the red plaid shirt and his blue ox a part of American folklore. These tall tales fueled our imagination with larger-than-life explanations. His ax carved the Grand Canyon as he dragged it behind him. The Great Lakes became watering holes for Babe the big blue ox. Today there are statues of this legendary duo that remind us of the grandeur of our own natural resources. It’s as if Paul Bunyan’s character showed us how to take in the size and splendor of our precious country. On National Paul Bunyan Day, celebrate the tall tales that help us measure the worth of our own neck of the woods. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Ice Cream Vendor Stayed Cool Under Pressure. Welcome to June 27th, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate staying cool under pressure and looking cool while you’re at it. On Memorial Day weekend of 1929, Tom Carvel was driving his ice cream truck around when he got a flat tire. He pulled into the parking lot of a local shop and watched helplessly as the ice cream began to melt. Staying cool under pressure, he decided to sell the slightly melted ice cream to passersby. The softer texture was a big hit and he quickly sold out his entire stock. Carvel soon opened a permanent store to sell the new style of ice cream and the name Carvel became synonymous with sort-serve and ice cream cakes. On National Ice Cream Cake Day enjoy this perfect way to have your cake and ice cream and eat them too. Sure sunglasses are cool, but thanks to the Vision Council, most of us know they’re our first line of defense from harmful UV rays. That doesn’t mean you can’t flaunt your own personal style! If you’re going for “Risky Business chic,” why not try a pair of Ray-Ban Wayfarers like the ones worn by Tom Cruise? Fashion icon Jackie O. turned heads in her signature oversized glasses that are still popular today. And who doesn’t like the anti glare benefit of a classic pair of Aviator glasses? On National Sunglasses Day, be sure to pick a pair that offers the best protection for your peepers. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
These Tropical Fruits Take A Long Voyage Over The Pond. Welcome to June 26th, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate our best friends in beauty and adventurous fruits. They say that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. With nearly 100 billion dollars spent each year on cosmetic and personal care products in the United States alone, that’s a market that depends heavily on how we see ourselves. Regardless of economic downturns, these self-esteem boosters are high on our list. Today we celebrate our trusted friends in our quest to be our personal best: our beauticians, barbers, aestheticians and cosmetologists. They know us in our weakest moments, when we can’t face the mirror alone. And the transformation is much deeper than listening to our troubles while they whisk away our flaws. On National Beautician’s Day, we celebrate those who help us find beauty in ourselves. If you find yourself walking the beaches of Ireland or the UK, you may be in for a surprise. Yes, you’ll see all the usual things like seashells and gulls, but you may also stumble across coconuts. How did these tropical fruits come to be found in such a far off locale? As unusual as it may seem, there is a perfectly logical explanation. Coconuts fall from palm trees in the Caribbean and get caught up in the Gulf Stream. The current picks up the coconuts and takes them on a journey across the Atlantic of nearly 4,500 miles. From there they wash up on beaches, much to the surprise of residents and tourists. On National Coconut Day, enjoy the exotic taste of this adventurous island fruit. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
It's Never Too Early To Get A Jumpstart On The Holiday Fun. Welcome to June 25th, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate getting a jumpstart on the holidays and polka paradise. With the season in full swing, the heat is probably getting to you. Take some cool consolation that Christmas is a mere 6 months away. It may sound a bit premature to be thinking about the holiday, but this is the perfect time to start planning for Christmas, especially if you are the crafty type. Why wait until the last minute when you can get a head start on the festivities? That doesn’t mean you have to stop enjoying your summer. It means you have more time to get your ducks in a row. So hang by the pool, and know that you’re way ahead of the game today on National Leon Day. If you’re confused, don’t be. Leon is just Noel spelled backwards! Not many people have made a career out of playing an accordion. But then again, most people aren’t Weird Al Yankovic. Since he burst onto the music scene in the early 1980s, Yankovic has been poking fun at other musicians. And while they made names for themselves with electric guitars and drums, Al did it his way—with kooky lyrics and his trusty accordion. The instrument isn’t exactly cool, but it gives a distinct sound and, as Weird Al put it: “It’s great, especially if you’re a solo accordion act. You can get a whole lot of really cool sounds out of it and basically be a one-man band.” June is National Accordion Awareness Month, a perfect time to polka or dive into Weird Al’s discography. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
Time For Turkey With Your Favorite Friends. Welcome to June 24th, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate sweet “nut-things” and the Dog Days of Summer. There are lots of stories about the origin of the candy known as the praline, but they all point to the same 17th century nobleman —Count du Plessis-Praslin. The most popular version was that the Count asked his personal chef to create an irresistible candy that he could give out to the women he was courting. This confection, which was originally made with almonds, became very popular and was brought to the Southern United States by French immigrants in the 1800s. It was there that the candy was given a local twist—replacing almonds with pecans—and the praline that we know and love in the States was born. On National Pralines Day, give your sweet tooth a love note with this classic confectionary creation. The Saturday after the Summer Solstice, gather your friends and family to celebrate Summersgiving! This day is designed to combine all the fun of Summer with America’s favorite Thanksgiving foods. It’s a celebration of life rooted in gratitude, to be shared with the friends that make life fun. Everyone has a favorite holiday food or tradition, and Summersgiving lets you celebrate outside under the stars. What a perfect opportunity to expand this tradition to a broader circle of family and friends. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Pizza Proves It's Hip To Be Square! Welcome to June 23rd, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate keeping your cool and Motown pizza. You’ve heard that your body is made up of more than 60 percent water and maintaining proper hydration is critical for your survival. Imagine how important it is for athletes who train outside. The special precautions they take to stay hydrated are good for anyone and include drinking water before and after a workout and supplementing with electrolytes throughout the day. No matter how active you are, experts now say that taking small sips of water more frequently is better than chugging a glass all at once. On National Hydration Day try topping off your fluids at a slow and steady pace and celebrate keeping your cool. 8x10 is the size of a photo frame. Unless you’re in Detroit. Here, an 8x10 or a 10x14 are pizza sizes. While New York and Chicago usually get all the attention, Motor City has its own spin on the Italian favorite. Their brand of pizza is similar to the Sicilian style—thick, square slices. But what sets Detroit-style pizza apart is the way it’s constructed and baked. First, the dough is shaped into the pan, then the add-ons like pepperoni are placed on top, then cheese, then pizza sauce. This seemingly mixed-up order of ingredients prevents the dough from getting soggy while it’s being cooked. If you haven’t tried this type of pizza, National Detroit-Style Pizza Day is the perfect time to give it a whirl. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Dessert Goes Down Lightening Fast. Welcome to June 22nd, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a flash of lightning and going for the gold. On National Onion Rings Day we celebrate the “brass ring of fried foods!” Ok, I suppose they are more “golden” than “brass” but most people reach for them when it comes to appetizers with global appeal. While no one is quite sure who made them first, recipes appeared as far back as 1802. And Kirby’s Pig Stand restaurant in Oak Cliff, Texas makes a strong claim on having the original recipe beginning in 1920. No matter where you go in the world, onion rings are the gold standard of fried snacks and some even prefer their sweet mellow flavor to plain old fries any day. On National Onion Rings Day go for the gold, that’s strong on flavor no matter how you dip it. Not much is known about the origin of éclairs, but we do know they became famous in France around the turn of the nineteenth century when they were made for French royalty. The word éclair is French for lightning, which seems odd for an oblong pastry filled with cream and frosted with chocolate. Some believe that the dessert got its name from the way it sparkles when coated with confectioner's glaze. And while King Louis the 18th may be rolling in his grave that his favorite dessert is now available to commoners in almost any donut shop, we suggest you celebrate National Chocolate Eclair Day with the decadent dessert that disappears like lightning. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
Skateboarding Fans Owe A Debt Of Gratitude To These CA Teens. Welcome to June 21st, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate shredding the half pipe and the need to overshare. The Z-boys were a group of Los Angeles teenagers who rode the waves near the Santa Monica pier. On days when the ocean was too calm for surfing, they would go skateboarding. In the early 1970s, there was a major drought in Southern California and when pools began to dry up, the teens found a silver lining to the situation. They skated the walls of empty pools, which was the origin of skate parks and half-pipes that every skateboarder knows today. Without the Z-boys, there would never have been a Tony Hawk or X-Games and skaters everywhere owe these kids a debt of gratitude. On Go Skateboarding Day, grab your longboard and cruise the streets or get out to the skate park and start shredding. Selfies are more popular than ever, as folks can’t seem to resist sharing every aspect of their lives. There are even categories of selfies that express our favorite moments. Duck face selfies need no explanation along with selfies we take in the car. Foodie Selfies show off our good taste in meals, and Pet Selfies capture how much we look like our pets. Travel Selfies show off the places we go and Celebrity Selfies are a big boost on Social Media. If you’re looking extra glamorous or buffed out at the gym, Selfies capture that air of confidence. And perhaps most popular of all are the Bestie Selfies that feature the folks who always make us look and feel our best, no matter what we are up to. On National Selfie Day, celebrate sharing what you care about the most. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
Both These Birds Inspired Greatness In Our Early History. Welcome to June 20th, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate great birds in history. Benjamin Franklin once said that the turkey was “a Bird of Courage… '' that would not hesitate to attack any British soldiers who dared to step foot onto their farm. This argument did not win the day when choosing our Nation’s mascot and unfortunately for the bird is loved today for very different reasons. June is Turkey Lover’s Month and while the bird was passed over as a mascot, it’s still a go to protein for meat eaters and a formidable foe on the farm. Celebrate your love for turkeys with a burger or a trip to the petting zoo depending on which camp you’re in. After the United States became a sovereign nation, with the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the Founding Fathers requested that a Presidential Seal be made. But it took nearly 6 years to find an acceptable design that Congress could agree on. It’s the one we know today, with a Bald Eagle as the focal point, and its appeal was nearly unanimous. Well, nearly. Ben Franklin thought the illustration made the eagle look like a turkey. Thankfully, Ben was outnumbered on this one and the eagle took its place as the symbol of our country. On National American Eagle Day, we celebrate the majestic bird that still inspires us to reach great heights. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Time Piece Took A Licking And Kept On Ticking. Welcome to June 19th, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate timeless timepieces and spinning tunes. For hundreds of years after their invention in the 1500s, watches were carried in pockets or worn on chains around one’s neck. Wristwatches didn’t become popular with men until the early 1900s, and then only out of necessity. During World War I, soldiers wore timepieces on their wrists in order to keep both hands free to load and fire weapons. Soldiers grew so accustomed to wearing them that watches became all the rage after the Great War even for civilians. Not only were they functional, they were also viewed as quite masculine because of the connection to the military. On National Watch Day, celebrate the timepiece that keeps on ticking. Marlo, you have a watch that also keeps track of your steps, eh? When the James Bond movies debuted in the late 1960s, the popularity of martinis went up. Today, there are endless variations including chocolate and apple pie, but back in the day there were only three classic choices, the Gibson, the Dirty martini and the Vesper. The last one is James Bond’s favorite made with gin, vodka and Kina Lillet, a bitter wine aperitif. According to Ian Fleming, the writer who created Bond’s character, the Vesper is “strong, cold and very well made,” much like the world’s most famous spy. And like Bond, the drink has an air of mystery to it. Kina Lillet no longer exists, so mixologists have to improvise to emulate the Vesper’s original taste. On World Martini Day, raise a glass to one of the classiest cocktails and be sure to enjoy it shaken, not stirred. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
Celebrate Dad With A Few Of His Favorite Things! Welcome to June 18th, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the guys we look up to and relaxing hobbies. Father’s Day was made for honoring the guy in your life who taught you how to fish or ride a bike. Maybe you haven’t always seen eye to eye, but just for today give your dad the celebration of his choice. Fortunately there’s something for everyone. Maybe your dad likes to fire up the grill and cook turkey burgers for National Turkey Lovers’ Day. Or maybe he’s more of a raw fish guy and you can take him out for International Sushi Day. No matter how you celebrate Father’s Day, spending quality time together is the very best present of all. Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you can expect him to disappear for hours on end. No, that’s not how the proverb goes, but anyone who has ever stood on the water’s edge with a fishing rod in hand knows it’s a great way to spend an afternoon. Sure, some people take fishing very seriously and won’t be content unless they reel in the big one. But plenty of folks are happy to patiently wait for a tug at the end of their line, while enjoying the peace of the great outdoors. Bragging about the one that got away is optional. Today is the perfect excuse to get outside and cast a line. On National Go Fishing Day, cast your cares aside too as you head on down to the old fishing hole. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Strutting Chicken Is A Fan Favorite! Welcome to June 17th, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a dessert that keeps on rolling and a mascot who keeps us laughing. The German word “strudel” literally means “swirl,” which makes sense if you think of its whirlpool shape. This flaky, fruit-filled pastry was created in 1696 and became very popular during the Habsburg Dynasty. Today apple strudel is still one of Austria’s most famous dishes, but you may not know that at one time it was also the official state pastry of Texas. That’s because German settlers brought strudel to America and won over this part of the country. While many flavors of strudel exist both savory and sweet, the apple kind has remained a favorite. This is probably because apples can be found during good times and bad, and on National Apple Strudel Day, you can count on this dessert to inspire celebration. In 1974, Ted Giannoulas was hired to dress in a chicken costume for an event at the city’s world-famous San Diego Zoo. Ted was a big fan of the Padres baseball team and worked out a deal to wear the costume during games. His intent was to be able to watch the Padres for free, but the mascot’s appearances at games became a sensation. Even when the team wasn’t playing well, people would show up to the stadium simply to see the San Diego Chicken’s antics. Dancing, chasing around players, joking with the umpires…he did it all. For nearly 50 years, the Chicken entertained audiences and became the most famous team mascot of all time. On National Mascot Day, celebrate the folks who are willing to “take one for the team” to keep fans entertained even when their teams are stinking it up on the field I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
These Ladies Made Their Mark By Breaking The Rules! Welcome to June 16th, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate profitable pastimes and the great American getaway. Have you ever wondered why most tourist towns offer fudge in their souvenir shops? It all began in 1888 at Vassar College in Poughkeepsie, NY. Young women found the recipe for fudge so intoxicating that they dodged curfew to hang out with their friends and make it. Burning the midnight oil in their dorm rooms, these rebels had a cause and it was rule breaking! Though no one got expelled, the recipe inspired the spirit of freedom, a spirit that made its way to the boardwalks of Mackinac, Island, Michigan. Today, gift shops across the country sell fudge, because who doesn’t like a rich morsel of sweetness to go with that feeling of letting down your hair? On National Fudge Day take a vacation from counting calories, and savor the sweet life. At some point, each of us hears the call of the wild and needs to get outside into nature. Fresh air, trees, babbling brooks…the summer months offer so much beauty all around us. And camping is the perfect way to get away and unwind. Even in today’s modern world, we still find peace in getting back to our primal roots. And to top off all that relaxing time spent in the woods or sitting by a lake, don’t forget the other important things like s’mores and scary stories around the campfire! So pack up the car and celebrate National Camping Month! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Fish Had A Ten Foot Smile! Welcome to June 15th, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate deadly creatures and amazing views. The Great White Shark is one of the most deadly predators on Earth. But it looks positively tame when compared to its great great great granddaddy—the Megalodon. This prehistoric fish hunted throughout the world’s oceans until about 3.5 million years ago when it went extinct. Based on fossils, the Megalodon was about 50 feet in length, making it not just the biggest shark ever, but also one of the biggest fish ever. So big, in fact, that its name literally just means big teeth. It used to feed on whales and its open mouth measured 10 feet across—large enough to swallow a couple full grown humans whole. Luckily, people weren’t around at the time to witness this monstrosity in the flesh. On National Megalodon Day, celebrate by learning more about one of the ocean’s deadliest creatures. Have you ever noticed how being out in nature can automatically boost your mood? On Nature Photography Day why not bring that feeling home with you? Most smartphones take amazing pictures, and you don’t have to be an expert like Ansel Adams to capture the moment. Great pictures tell great stories, and this is your chance to bring your vision to life. Sharing them on Social Media can inspire others to take in their own view. We could all use a break and the natural world is a ready oasis, even if your National Geographic adventure extends only to the backyard. On Nature Photography Day, answer the call of the wild and watch your day get a little brighter. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Little Bear Became The Poster Child For Fire Safety. Welcome to June 14th, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate inspirational bears and distinctly American tastes. In 1950, a large and destructive wildfire tore through the mountains of south-central New Mexico. After firefighters extinguished the blaze, they found a tiny bear cub hanging on to the top of a charred tree. Rangers took him in and nursed him back to health and gave him a name—Smokey Bear. This little guy became a mascot for the United States Forest Service as well as the face of fire prevention and forest conservation. When he passed away in 1976, his remains were returned to the mountains where he’d been rescued so many years before. There’s even Smokey Bear Historical Park built in his honor. On National New Mexico Day, we celebrate the Land of Enchantment and all its citizens, even the four-legged ones. Countries around the world have their own distinct take on alcohol. Russia has vodka. Japan has sake. And here in the United States, we have bourbon. It’s widely believed that whiskey can only be considered bourbon if it comes from Kentucky. That’s not true, but there are some specific legal requirements for every alcohol that wants to be labeled bourbon. First, the grains used to produce it must be at least 51% corn. And it must also be aged in charred oak barrels. The aging process is what gives bourbon its distinctive taste. If you’re an aficionado, you already know this makes all the difference in the world. On National Bourbon Day, enjoy a glass of this distinctly American drink. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Inventor Stayed The Course And Really Cleaned Up! Welcome to June 13th, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a determined inventor and persistent weeds. Elias Howe patented the sewing machine in 1838, but didn’t make any money selling it. In fact, he was living in poverty until he realized that other manufacturers had been ripping him off and selling lots of sewing machines in the process. So he sued them. All of them. And he won each lawsuit, earning himself millions of dollars. But what really brought the machine to the masses was his collaboration with Isaac Singer, who had invented a sewing machine that was totally different, except for one thing. Singer licensed the needle design from Howe, who took a cut of every machine sold, and the rest is history. On National Sewing Machine Day, celebrate a revolutionary invention that’s kept us in stitches for more that 150 years! In the early 1900s, farmers in the Southeastern United States found a plant that provided an inexpensive way to combat soil erosion. It was called kudzu. It does do that, but it also kills other plants by smothering them and cutting off any nutrients. And it grows like wildfire. Kudzu can grow a whole foot in one day and in just a few decades it has covered the landscape from Florida up to New Jersey and as far west as Texas. And there doesn’t seem to be an end in sight. So when you’re in your backyard complaining about dandelions and crabgrass on National Weed Your Garden Day, remember that it could be a lot worse. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
According To Victorian Tradition, A Red Rose Symbolizes Passion. Welcome to June 12th, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate floriography and a tasty health food. Floriography, the process of communicating via flowers and their arrangements, was developed during the Victorian era. For example, a bouquet with yellow tulips is saying that the sender loves your smile. And birdsfoot trefoil means that someone is looking for revenge. But the most timeless symbol of floriography is the red rose. It symbolizes romantic love in its purest form. Henri Matisse once said “There is nothing more difficult for a truly creative painter than to paint a rose, because before he can do so he has first to forget all the roses that were ever painted.” On National Red Rose Day, give someone you love a subtle hint with a bouquet of these classic blooms. John Harvey Kellogg, founded the Battlecreek Sanitorium as a health spa and platform for preaching his beliefs about plant based nutrition. In his campaign against eating animal protein, Kellogg filed a patent for a proto peanut butter in 1895. While this first nut butter was a little bland, celebrity endorsements from Amelia Earhart and Henry Ford helped peanut butter become a delicacy. By the 1920s peanut butter found its way into cookies and sandwiches and today Americans can’t get enough of the stuff ! On National Peanut Butter Cookie Day, celebrate one of the tastiest ways to enjoy this healthy food. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
Everyone Loves This Summer Veggie. Welcome to June 11th, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a confusing cake and Summer’s best veggie. German chocolate cake…it’s a luscious dessert straight from Germany, right? Nope. The cake is actually named after the man who invented it: Sam German. The thing that made it stand out from traditional chocolate cakes was its use of sweet, rather than dark baking chocolate. Plus the frosting with coconut and pecans. For years, it was known as German’s Chocolate Cake, but wasn’t particularly popular until the 1950s when a newspaper in Dallas, Texas brought it to the public eye. And somewhere along the way, the apostrophe S got dropped, giving it the somewhat confusing name we know today. There’s no confusion about how delicious it is though, so go ahead splurge on National German Chocolate Cake Day, with a nice big slice. Americans love fresh corn and, on average, eat about six pounds per person each year. During summer cookouts, it’s arguably the most popular food other than burgers and hotdogs. But some people take their love of corn to the extreme. The National Sweet Corn Eating Championship is held each year in West Palm Beach, Florida and attracts corn aficionados from around the world. Carmen Cincotti from New Jersey holds the record for most corn on the cob eaten in a 12-minute span. In 2019, Cincotti wolfed down 61.75 ears. That’s roughly 38.5 lbs of corn, more than enough to last someone for several summers. On National Corn on the Cob Day, celebrate with some sweet corn of your own. But go slow and savor it. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Very British Beverage Is Now An All American Favorite. Welcome to June 10th, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate beating the heat American style and disappearing ink. This common, everyday drink was so popular that at one point in history it changed the world economy and sparked a revolution. That beverage of course is tea. In the 1700s, the demand was great and the English began importing more than 3,000 tons. While their trade fleets brought wealth and power to the British Empire they also brought the Boston Tea Party and the American Revolution. And in the end it all worked out, as the British maintain their elaborate tea customs and we are free to follow our laid back American style. On National Iced Tea Day, find a spot in the shade and enjoy this perfect way to beat the heat. Considering how quickly they disappear from desks, ballpoint pens can seem like a precious commodity. And when they were first introduced in America in 1945, they were priced as if they were. The first ballpoint pen sold in the United States, the Reynolds Rocket, was priced at $12.50, which is the equivalent of $150 today. Despite the hefty price tag, the Reynolds company sold nearly 1.5 million units that year. Today, over 3.5 billion of these pens are imported into the United States annually. Safe to say that they’ve become an integral part of everyday life, even if you can never find one when you need it. On National Ballpoint Pen Day, celebrate the ordinary item we can’t seem to live without. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Sweet Tart Treat Was First Used As A Medicine. Welcome to June 9th, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a sweet tart treat and the bird that still quacks us up. It will probably come as no surprise that rhubarb was initially produced as a medicine. The first recorded use dates back to 2700 BCE. Today we know that rhubarb is high in oleic acid, although the leaves are toxic and the stalks must be cooked before they can be eaten. It’s also a food that tastes much better when paired with sugar or sweet fruits. Strawberries to the rescue! This winning combination was first discovered in England and Germany, but we have gladly adopted its sweet, tart flavor here in the United States. On National Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Day, pucker up and celebrate a seasonal super star! Donald Duck was first introduced to the world in 1931 in a book called The Adventures of Mickey Mouse. In the story, he and several other animals join Mickey and Minnie for a hoedown at a local barn. The story isn’t that significant, but something in the book is—it’s the first and only time that Donald ever wore pants. Plus, the pants and matching hat were green, so maybe that just means he hadn’t yet joined the Navy. That outfit didn’t make an appearance until his first film role in 1934. Today, we celebrate the crazy, foul-tempered little duck who plays second fiddle only to Mickey, Mr. Donald Fauntleroy Duck. (Yes, that’s really his middle name.) Happy National Donald Duck Day! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Unlikely Pair Shares A Love Of Water. Welcome to June 8th, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate pre-picked poison and pals who are the perfect fit. Most people saunter up to a bar and aren’t sure what to order. They typically settle for a beer or wine. But wouldn’t it be cool to have a signature drink that you can order with confidence? Like Carrie Bradshaw, who loves Cosmopolitans. Or The Dude from Big Lebowski, who wouldn’t be caught drinking anything other than a White Russian. Or perhaps the most famous drink order of all time—James Bond. As we all know, his drink of choice is a vodka martini. Shaken, not stirred. It’s National Name Your Poison Day and while you can’t possibly be as smooth as Mr. Bond when you order your drink, knowing your beverage of choice will save you time—and may get you some cool points with your friends. Most of us choose our friends because they like the same things we do. That makes them good companions through thick and thin and our “go to” for having a good time. But best friends aren’t necessarily our twin. Take Bella the Labrador retriever and Bubbles the elephant. This pair met at Myrtle Beach Animal Safari after Bubbles was rescued from Africa. Their unlikely friendship was featured in the movie Ace Ventura II and even a Janet Jackson Video! What makes these besties so special is their love of water. They can be found splashing around, playing catch and cuddling afterwards. And while your bestie might not double as a perfect leather sofa, On National Best Friends Day, be sure to show them love for being the perfect fit in your life! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
Some People Get Downright Emotional About This Ice Cream Flavor! Welcome to June 7th, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate feathered heroes and a frozen favorite. In Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, you can visit a museum that pays tribute to some of the lesser-known heroes of the American armed forces—the winged kind. Specifically pigeons. During World War II, over 55,000 of these winged messengers carried notes high above battlefields, delivering information that might otherwise be intercepted over radio or phone lines. The American Pigeon Museum & Library offers an in-depth look at how these birds helped shape American history, both in times of war and peace. On National Oklahoma Day, celebrate the Sooner State and all its citizens, winged or otherwise. While the most popular ice cream flavor is vanilla, it may surprise you that chocolate ice cream was invented first. The recipe for chocolate ice cream appeared in an Italian cookbook in 1692, but like most frozen treats, it came from popular drinks that were poured over ice. When the Spaniards conquered Mexico in 1519 they discovered the irresistible Mayan chocolate drink that would become the basis of the first frozen chocolate. Spanish explorer Alberto Garcia reportedly exclaimed, “In all my life I have never made a discovery so fine. This is not a taste, it’s an emotion.” On National Chocolate Ice Cream Day, celebrate the scoops that still make us swoon! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Toy Was Also A Fashion Accessory And A Weapon! Welcome to June 6th, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a toy that distracts us from life’s ups and downs and a blast from the past. Yo-yos were all the rage in the United States during the mid 1900s, but the toy has been around since ancient times. Pottery from Ancient Greece depicts children playing with yo-yos and images of the toy have been found in Egyptian art. In 18th Century France, the aristocracy found yo-yos very fashionable and royalty had them made of ivory and glass. But not all cultures thought of yo-yos as toys or fashion accessories. In the Philippines, hunters used them as weapons, hiding in trees and dropping the yo-yo onto their prey. On National Yo-Yo Day celebrate life’s ups and downs with this fun, classic toy. If you’re looking for a fun way to spend a Summer’s night with the whole family, consider the drive-in movie. While they’re not exactly new, once upon a time, these theaters looked a lot different. In Long Island, New York one of the largest drive-in theaters boasted 29 acres that could fit 2,500 cars. It also had a full-service restaurant with rooftop seating, a trolley system to take kids to the playground and indoor seating in case of bad weather. Though drive-in theaters fell out of fashion for a time, today they’re making a comeback. With better sound, digital projection, and more restaurant-like concession stands, you can celebrate National Drive-In Movie Day in futuristic comfort. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Is A Plant Based Protein You Can Really Sink Your Teeth Into. Welcome to June 5th, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate primal plant protein and potent potables. It used to be that vegetarians were a bit on the outside of cookouts. Sure, there were veggie burgers, but they were made of beans or soy and most of the time they didn’t hold up on the grill. So maybe you ended up eating some... potato salad…or maybe a roll with cheese on it. But now there are options for people who avoid animal protein: plant-based burgers that taste like…well, actual meat. Thanks to the Impossible Burger and similar brands, non-meat eaters can feel more included at backyard barbecues. On National Veggie Burger Day, celebrate the plant based stuff you can really sink your teeth into. If you’ve ever seen someone in a movie pick up a jug with three Xs on the label, you know that it’s moonshine. Everyone assumes that the X is just a mark invented by Hollywood, but it’s not. In fact, the marks are used as a way to track moonshine’s production. An X is added to the jug after each round of distillation. The first round produces some strong but nasty-tasting alcohol known as singling. A couple more rounds gives distillers the nearly pure alcohol we know as moonshine and that’s how it earns the three Xs. In some cases, the stuff can get to nearly 200 proof and is almost guaranteed to pack a punch. Proceed with caution as you raise a glass of legal moonshine to celebrate National Moonshine Day. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Is The Best Way To Sample Moose Milk. Welcome to June 4th, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate cheesy comfort food and polka paradise. Today we celebrate an ooey, gooey comfort food - delicious cheese! This all time favorite can be found in every corner of the world, though it’s made from a variety of ingredients. One of the rarest of these is the cheese that’s made from moose milk. At the Elk House farm in Sweden, it takes three moose to produce milk at the rate of 5 liters a day between May and September. But at a price tag of $500 per pound for the finished cheese, it’s definitely worth all the trouble . Kinda makes good old cheddar seem like a bargain. If you’re up for adventure visit the Swedish farm on National Cheese Day. Or grab a slab of something a little closer to home. Not many people have made a career out of playing an accordion. But then again, most people aren’t Weird Al Yankovic. Since he burst onto the music scene in the early 1980s, Yankovic has been poking fun at other musicians. And while they made names for themselves with electric guitars and drums, Al did it his way—with kooky lyrics and his trusty accordion. The instrument isn’t exactly cool, but it gives a distinct sound and, as Weird Al put it: “It’s great, especially if you’re a solo accordion act. You can get a whole lot of really cool sounds out of it and basically be a one-man band.” June is National Accordion Awareness Month, a perfect time to polka or dive into Weird Al’s discography. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
A Cookie By Any Other Name Would Taste As Sweet! Welcome to June 3rd, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate “favorite do overs” and a coconut lover’s dream. Anna: Everyone has found themselves in a conversation with someone who talks too much. Even the Greek goddess Hera. The nymph Echo started talking her ear off and just. wouldn’t. stop. Hera was so annoyed that she put a curse on Echo—from that day on, the nymph could only repeat the last word that someone else said. Over the years, it got worse and worse until Echo simply faded away into just a sound. And if you’ve ever been near a canyon, you’ve heard her. On National Repeat Day, try doing the things you love over and over. Or repeat what others say. Just be careful who you do that to. Marlo: Do that to. John: Do that to. Some things are simply perfect and if you’re a coconut lover, then macaroons fit the bill. These cookies have very few ingredients and trace their roots back to an 8th or 9th century Italian monastery. From there they traveled to the French court of Henry II, and that’s where the technique for making them became complicated. Today, the recipe for French macarons remains complex, while the coconut macaroon is still blissfully simple. On National Chocolate Macaroon Day, we raise the celebration bar even higher by dipping these chewy treats in chocolate, but don’t let that keep you from making them from scratch! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Is How The Name Dough Boys Came To Be. Welcome to June 2nd 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate smoothing the rocky road and our favorite comfort food. Around the time of the Great Depression, ice cream makers William Dreyer and Joseph Edy decided to try something new. Up until then, ice cream came in basic flavors, but a new refrigeration technology allowed for more ingredients to get mixed in. They dubbed their creation Rocky Road, which swirled walnuts and marshmallows into chocolate ice cream. This was a nod to the difficult times people were facing, and this silver lining flavor was a huge hit. At this point we should mention that Dreyer was likely forgiven by his wife for using her sewing scissors to snip up the marshmallows in the first test batch. On National Rocky Road Day, celebrate the good things in life and the small things that make the road a little smoother. Doughnuts are so delicious that most people like to celebrate them every day. But the very first Doughnut Day was created by The Salvation Army in 1938 to honor the women who served this comfort food to soldiers during World War I. They were known as the Salvation Army Lassies, and they bravely went to the front lines to deliver this treat and other morale boosters. Doughnuts were so prized that soldiers even used their metal helmets to heat the oil used to fry them up. This is why American Infantrymen were often called doughboys. On National Doughnut Day, celebrate the sweet treat that still serves up that comfortable feeling of home. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
These Two Former Presidents Discovered The Power Of The Pen. Welcome to June 1st, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a lifesaving technique and bridging the distance with words. It’s hard to say how many lives have been affected by Dr. Henry Heimlich. Some estimate that his abdominal thrust technique has been performed successfully over 50,000 times since 1974! This procedure is so simple that even young people with very little training have been able to save choking victims. Dr. Heimlich did not use the method himself until he was 96 years old, when he saved a woman that lived in his nursing home. What an amazing testament to the power of a method that can still be used by both young and old. On National Heimlich Maneuver Day, we celebrate this life saving technique and the man who invented it. Presidents Thomas Jefferson and John Adams were what you might call frenemies. They were very close as they worked on the Declaration of Independence, but had a big falling out after the presidential election in 1800. For the next 12 years, they didn’t speak. But when a mutual friend died in 1813, Jefferson wrote a letter to tell Adams the bad news. Adams wrote back to say thank you and shared some of his memories. They slowly rebuilt their friendship over the next 13 years, corresponding until the day they died. And, ironically, they passed on the same day—July 4th 1826. On National Pen Pal Day, take some time to reach out to a friend or strike up a correspondence with someone new. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This California Gull Is The Official State Bird Of Utah! Welcome to May 31, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a miraculous smarm and smile power. The California Gull is an official state bird—but not of California. It seems strange, but this bird that can sometimes be seen as a nuisance to beachgoers is a hero in Utah. Back in 1848, swarms of crickets descended on the crops of new settlers in Utah. Entire farms were at risk of being wiped out—until flocks of migrating seagulls arrived. The birds swooped in and feasted on the crickets until they’d completely eliminated the invading bugs. In appreciation, the state named the California Gull as its official bird. On National Utah Day, celebrate the Beehive State who appreciates all its residents both great and small. Contrary to popular belief, it does not take fewer muscles to smile than to frown. The simple act of smiling can use up to 53 muscles, while frowning takes only 11. But the good news is that all this upward, facial exercise is actually good for your health. Psychologists say that a smile can instantly improve your mood, even if you have to force it. And smiles relax our bodies too, which is good news for our immune systems. Not to mention the ripple effect this causes for those on the receiving side. You never know how a simple smile can change someone’s entire day. On National Smile Day celebrate the exercise that not only benefits you, but also the world around you! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Southern Drink Goes Hand In Glove With The Kentucky Derby. Welcome to May 30, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the spirit of the South and fabulous flora. If you’ve ever been to the American South you have likely been offered one of two drinks. Sweet tea is consumed in this part of the country almost as much as water. But for the non teetotaler, nothing is more Southern than the mint julep. A julep is a sweet beverage that was once served to literally make the medicine go down. From there it graduated to a grownup cocktail that included water, gin, sugar, and muddled mint leaves. Today the mint julep goes hand in glove with the Kentucky Derby and is made with bourbon instead of gin. An estimated 120,000 mint juleps are served at Churchill Downs over the two day event. On National Mint Julep Day, celebrate that sweet Southern style with this refreshing Summer drink. Now that Spring is in full bloom, it’s time to stop and appreciate the actual blooms all around us. Flowers are more than just pretty. Throughout history, they’ve made some significant impacts on the world. In the 1600s, Tulip-mania nearly destroyed the Dutch economy when speculation drove the value of tulip bulbs so high that some were going for as much as $750k in today’s money. And then there’s the thistle. According to legend, when Vikings tried to conquer Scotland, the spiky flower slowed down the invaders, giving the Scots time to escape. As you can tell, flowers are kind of a big deal. On National Water a Flower Day, grab your watering can and give these blossoms the love they deserve. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Is The Ultimate Trading Up Story. Welcome to May 29, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate amazing trades and remember our fallen heroes. Have you ever heard the story about the guy who traded a paperclip for a house? Kyle MacDonald, a Canadian blogger played the childhood game called Bigger, Better and started with a simple paperclip. The idea of the game is that you keep trading up for something bigger and better until you reach an item you would actually like to keep. At first Kyle traded his paperclip for a fish-shaped pen. After thirteen exchanges he found himself with a movie role, which someone offered to trade for their two story farm house in Kipling, Saskatchewan! Imagine turning an office supply into a house after only fourteen transactions. On National Paperclip Day, celebrate the simple things in life that are worth more than you think! Of all the wars Americans have fought, none had more casualties than the Civil War—over 500,000 people in total. Memorial gatherings became a tradition each spring, with communities visiting the cemeteries to place flowers on the graves and pay respects. In 1868, General John A. Logan, declared a nationwide day of remembrance. A day “designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country…and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village and hamlet churchyard in the land.” May 30th was chosen because it didn’t coincide with the date of any particular battle. This eventually became known as Memorial Day, which we celebrate today on the final Monday of May. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
No Matter How You Slice It, This Day Is All About Beef.Welcome to May 28, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate barbecue classics and popular patties.Brisket is one of the most prized cuts of barbecue meat, but it wasn’t always so popular. In fact, it was once considered to be of very poor quality. However, that changed in the early 1900s when European Jewish immigrants arrived in America and made their way to Texas. Brisket had long been a staple of Passover meals because it was kosher. And since there were so many cattle in Texas, beef brisket was easy to come by. Ranchers took note of the way their new neighbors prepared brisket and made a slight change—instead of slow-cooking the tough cut of meat in an oven, Texans began to smoke it. On National Brisket Day, celebrate with a helping of this BBQ classic.Hamburgers are one of America’s most popular foods, so it’s no surprise that dozens of people take credit for their invention. The idea for a cooked patty of ground beef originated in Hamburg, Germany, and years later someone put the patty between two slices of bread. And those are the only details anyone seems to be able to agree on. This culinary superhero doesn’t appear to suffer any setback from its lack of an agreed upon origin story, however, with places like McDonald’s selling 75 of them every second! On National Hamburger Day fire up the grill or grab your favorite takeout for a flavor that always delivers the taste of home. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Happy Accident Is Still Delicious. Welcome to May 27th, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate happy accidents and inventions that really stick. Like so many good things, the Popsicle’s creation was a happy accident. In 1905, 11 year-old Frank Epperson was sitting on his front porch, stirring a cupful of powdered soda and water with a stick. That night was unusually cold, and by the next morning the forgotten mixture left out on the porch was transformed into a frozen pop. Today the Popsicle is the quintessential Summertime treat, thanks to a few other inventions like the freezer. On National Grape Popsicle Day, chill out with the happy accident that never goes out of style. Some inventions are an overnight success while others take a little more time. Richard Gurley Drew began his career as an inventor in 1920 when he worked for the 3M company in St. Paul, MN. He created invisible tape in 1930 for the cellophane packages sold in bakeries and grocery stores. But when Dupont introduced heat sealing cellophane, Richard found that his invention had completely missed the mark. 3M knew a good thing when they saw it though, and today you’d be hard pressed to find a home that didn’t have multiple rolls of Scotch tape. On National Cellophane Tape Day, celebrate the inventions that capitalize on stick-to-it-iveness. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Flight Set The Bar For Paper Plane Folding. Welcome to May 26, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate flights of fancy and a portable fridge. You may think of paper airplanes as kid stuff, but some people take it very seriously. Ken Blackburn set the record for the longest paper airplane flight, when his craft stayed aloft for an unbelievable 27.6 seconds. In fairness Ken is an aeronautical engineer for the Air Force, who has written a few books on the science of folding paper airplanes. No doubt his skills would make even the Wright Brothers jealous. Try your hand at a tournament if you’re feeling competitive about your own skills. Or you can just enjoy an easy pastime with the kids, who still love the simple thrill of watching something fly. Whatever you do on National Paper Airplane Day, celebrate the art of folding and flight. One of the most useful inventions to come out of World War II was Styrofoam, which was originally intended as a replacement for rubber. In the post-war years, Styrofoam got put to a new use—portable coolers. As Americans settled into suburban life, picnics and barbecues became popular, which drove the demand for a way to keep foods and beverages cold outside the home. Companies like Coleman and Igloo capitalized on the trend and soon the portable cooler became an everyday item. On the Friday before Memorial Day, celebrate National Cooler Day by loading up this portable fridge and heading to the great outdoors. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This May Be The Most Memorable Tap Dance Ever. Welcome to May 25, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate inspirational libations and moving to the beat of happy feet. According to Greek mythology, there were twelve gods who lived on Mount Olympus. Of the twelve, only one was part human. Dionysus held a special place for the Greeks, not only because his mother was human, but also because he created wine. This magical beverage, like Dionysus himself, could bring both joy and inspiration to those who drank it. It could, of course, also bring drama and craziness into people’s lives—which is why the ancient Greeks considered the really zealous followers of Dionysus to be dangerous. But luckily they didn’t ruin it for the rest of us. On National Wine Day, celebrate with a glass of this heavenly libation. Like so many things in American culture, tap dance is a melding of immigrant traditions. Irish step dancing, performed with clogs, and African juba dance, which involves rhythmic clapping and stomping combined to form the basis for a new form of dance. Tap dancing merged aspects of both dances, but added metal to the bottom of shoes, giving each step a musical quality. And that combination created a style of dance unlike any other. Vaudeville popularized tap, but it was made famous by Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire, who added a bit of ballroom flair to the mix. Astaire’s dance in Singin’ In the Rain may be the most memorable tap performance ever. Celebrate National Tap Dance Day by watching an old musical or by learning a few steps for yourself. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Happy Accident Is Still A Sweet Success! Welcome to May 23, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the luck you are given and the kind you make for yourself. The first one-cent coin in America was minted in 1787, and was designed by Benjamin Franklin. On one side, it read “Mind Your Business” and the other “We Are One,” though we’re not sure which side counted as heads or tails. Pennies don’t have much value, but finding one on the street is still a symbol of luck. If you abide by this superstition, be sure to pick up a penny showing “heads.” And if it shows “tails” flip the coin to heads and leave it for the next person. Who knows if this is what Ben Franklin had in mind, but on National Lucky Penny Day, celebrate the choice to pick up a little luck throughout our day. Life is full of happy accidents, it’s all in how you look at things. Consider the story of salt water taffy. In 1883, David Bradley of Atlantic City, New Jersey walked into his store to find his entire supply of taffy had been covered in ocean water during a local storm. When a girl came in that morning to buy some candy, Bradley joked that he only had salt water taffy. She willingly tried a piece and found it was delicious, and then ran down the beach to tell her friends. Salt water taffy is now a mainstay at candy stores and gift shops everywhere. On National Taffy Day, celebrate the sweet solutions to any sticky situation. And thank your lucky stars for those big storms. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Instrument Is Featured In Horror Movies. Welcome to May 22, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate strange instruments and strategic goofing off. The most popular instrument in the world is the guitar. It makes sense if you think about its versatility in terms of genre. But at the other end of the spectrum, you’ll find the theremin—one of the most uncommon musical instruments. Theremins are electronic and are played without touch. To make sound, the musician passes their hands through an electric field generated by the antennas, one which controls volume and the other frequency. The music it creates is pretty eerie, so you’ve likely only heard one in horror movies. Today is National Buy a Musical Instrument Day, so get out there and find something that suits your personal style, whatever that may sound like. The World Video Game Hall of Fame has honored such favorites as Pac Man, Super Mario Brothers and Halo. But one game in the Hall of Fame may surprise you, Solitaire. This game made its debut in 1990 and since then it’s been played by more than half a billion people worldwide. Solitaire is also number three on the list of most frequently used Microsoft programs. Anyone who has ever worked in an office can tell you how happy they are that Solitaire exists. Otherwise, how would we make it through conference calls? On National Solitaire Day, celebrate the game for one that helps us goof off, while still being productive at work. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
Let Your Kids Mix Things Up In The Great Outdoors. Welcome to May 21, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a few of my favorite things and role reversal. If I say “berry,” what’s the first one to come to mind? See I knew that about you. And did you know they are packed with Vitamin C and antioxidants? So just for you Marlo it’s National Strawberries and Cream Day and I’m giving you permission to top a healthy bowl of strawberries with a dollop of whipped cream. Marlo: What’s a dollop? Anna: Just get a can Marlo, it’s ok. If you are looking to mix things up, why not celebrate National Take Your Parents to the Playground Day? If you enjoyed the classic role reversal movie, “Freaky Friday”, where a parent and child switched roles for a day, you’ll love letting the kids take you to their place of “work” to remind you how exhausting it is to be them. Make sure you pack extra juice boxes and goldfish crackers and maybe some PB&J because going the distance with your kids takes lots of extra energy. While you might not wanna actually switch places with your kids, letting them run you around the park is a fair trade! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Museum Is Dedicated To Our Favorite Summer Fruit. Welcome to May 20, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate berry bliss and slowing down to the speed of streaming. The United States loves its strawberries. They’re one of our most popular fruits and lag only behind bananas and apples in overall sales. But nobody loves strawberries more than the people of Belgium. In the small town of Wépion, you can find a whole museum dedicated to the berry. Here they offer the history of strawberries in the region, along with samples and tours of local orchards. If you’re lucky enough to be in Belgium you can feast on the many varieties of strawberries, along with everything from baked goods to beer made with the fruit. On National Pick Strawberries Day, take a trip to your own local grower, and discover just how good a sun ripened berry can be. There was a time when if you wanted to watch a season of an entire TV series, you needed to go buy a DVD boxed set. Then in 2012, Netflix changed that forever with a show called Lilyhammer. It’s the story of a New York gangster who is living in Norway and it was the first streaming series in TV history. Nowadays, we are overwhelmed with original content from streaming services, but back then this was highly unusual. Although Lilyhammer was only a modest hit, this show paved the way for things like Bridgerton, The Marvelous Ms. Maisel, and all of the Marvel shows. On National Streaming Day, grab some snacks, curl up on the couch, and get binge-ing! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Sinful Dessert Caused Quite A Stir! Welcome to May 19, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate sinful desserts and life in the fast lane. No one is quite sure where the name Devil's Food Cake came from. But these light, moist chocolate cakes made quite a stir when they popped up in Indiana. One of the first recipes appeared in the 1898 edition of the Hagerstown Exponent. Right in the heart of the heartland, folks were swooning over the rich results made from boiling water and cocoa powder. Perhaps they took off because they appeared side by side with Angel Food Cake recipes and offered a tempting alternative. On National Devil’s Food Cake Day, celebrate taking a walk on the naughty side with a dessert that’s sinfully delicious. During Prohibition, it became very popular in the Southern states to illegally distill the alcohol known as moonshine. Federal agents would chase down vehicles during transport and destroy the barrels, so bootleggers began to soup up the engines on their cars. With these faster cars, they could outrun the Feds. Once Prohibition ended, those really fast cars were going to waste, so people began to race the vehicles and that evolved into what we know today as NASCAR. Each year on the third Friday of May, we celebrate NASCAR Day. So get comfortable on the couch, crack open a cold one and get ready for the races. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Culinary Masterpiece Is Worth The Challenge. Welcome to May 18, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate puffed up cheese and the crafty cleanup. The word soufflé is a French word meaning to puff or to breathe. And many Americans hold their breath while making a soufflé, because frankly they can be hard to master. This is probably because there are so many ways to fail when baking one. You might whip the egg whites too much or too little. And don’t even think about opening the oven door too soon or making a loud noise while they bake. The first recipe for soufflé appeared in 1742, and this culinary masterpiece is still regarded as a worthy challenge. On National Cheese Soufflé Day, celebrate by breathing new life into an old recipe that’s sure to win over a crowd. Cooking and then sharing a meal with loved ones is one of the best things in life. The cleanup afterwards…not so much. So thank goodness for socialite Josephine Cochrane. Her household staff had broken too many pieces of her good china during cleaning, so she came up with an idea for washing the dishes mechanically. Cochrane enlisted the help of George Butters to build the first practical dishwasher. Her invention debuted at the 1893 World’s Fair in Chicago, Illinois and has been a mainstay in kitchens ever since. It doesn’t matter if you use liquid or powdered detergent–or even whether you put the utensil handles up or down, on National No Dirty Dishes Day put that dishwasher to use! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Crash Site Put This Stuntman On The Map! Welcome to May 17, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate sweet substitutions and stunning stunts. They say that necessity is the mother of invention and in the case of cherry cobbler that need was for a pudding. I’m talking about British settlers in the American colonies who were longing for a taste of their hometown favorite, suet pudding. The problem was a lack of ingredients and the rudimentary ovens which most people had in the New World. But this episode of Dessert Impossible had a very happy ending. Clever bakers opted for stewed cherries instead of suet and when topped with biscuit dough, the substitutions were quite delicious! On National Cherry Cobbler Day, celebrate the ingenious results of making due with what you have on hand. Shoshone Falls in Southern Idaho is known as the Niagara of the West, and boasts some pretty amazing views. But a little past the falls is one of the coolest attractions in the state. In 1974, Evel Knievel, the world’s most famous stuntman attempted to jump the Falls. People around the world watched on TV as he launched off the ramp on a steam-powered rocket that he called the X-2 Skycycle. Unfortunately, Knievel didn’t make it to the other side because the parachute deployed too soon and he crashed into the Snake River. If you’re in the area, check out the Evel Knievel Jump Site, and on National Idaho Day, celebrate the Gem State in all its glory. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
These Tiny Shrimp Are Not All They Are Cracked Up To Be. Welcome to May 16th, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a classic case of “buyer beware” and a beautiful day in the neighborhood. Artemia salina are a species of brine shrimp that go into a state of hibernation when they become dried out. But when you reintroduce water, they spring back to life. If you read comic books in the 60, 70s, or 80s, you know these tiny animals by another name: Sea Monkeys. The ads showed them as smiling, mermaid-like creatures living in castles. But when you got them in the mail, things were…a bit different. Yes, it was cool to add water and watch them come to life, but any dreams of itty-bitty sea monsters went right down the drain. On National Sea Monkey Day, celebrate these amazing aquatic wonders and the first dose of “buyer beware” we experienced as kids. Nothing brings people together like a good old fashioned barbecue. Fire up the charcoal briquets and you instantly conjure memories of Summer days and backyards full of fun. What’s cooking on the grill doesn’t matter as much as the company you invite, because food that’s cooked outdoors just seems to taste better! Not only is it National Barbecue Day, it’s also National Do Something Good For Your Neighbor Day. So if you’re looking for the ultimate way to celebrate, why not have a block party? All it takes is a little sunshine, some burgers and potato salad and it really is a beautiful day in the neighborhood. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
That Is One Spicy Record! Welcome to May 15, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate living it up in Salsaville and classic cookies. June 2010 was a great time for fans of tortilla chips—specifically those who were living near Jacksonville, Texas. Bob Blumer, host of Food Network Canada’s “Glutton for Punishment” and 20 volunteers chopped up ingredients like tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and limes to create the world’s biggest bowl of salsa ever. This record-setting feat resulted in over 2,672 pounds of the delicious Mexican condiment. Once the Guinness Book of World Records verified the feat, Jacksonville mayor Robert Haberle officially changed the name of the city to “Salsaville”— for the next 24 hours, anyway. May is National Salsa Month. Celebrate with some of your favorite Mexican food or just a big bowl of chips and salsa. Though “big” is relative, I suppose. One of the supposed biggest cookie fans in the world is a big fake. Turns out that Cookie Monster isn’t nearly the aficionado of baked goods that he pretends to be. All those chocolate chip cookies we’ve seen him chomp into over the years weren’t cookies at all—they’re rice cakes with spots painted on. Puppeteers found that rice cakes break into pieces more easily and dramatically when Cookie Monster goes into a feeding frenzy. Today the rest of us can help pick up the slack by eating our share of some classic cookies—the real kind—on National Chocolate Chip Day. But try to actually get them into your mouth. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Year Why Not Give Mom Something From The Heart. Welcome to May 14, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate heartfelt connections and record breaking dances. Human mothers instinctively hold their infants to the left side of their bodies. This happens regardless of whether the mother is left or right-handed. And it’s just primal instinct. The right side of the brain, which controls emotions, is linked to the left side of the body. Obviously, the left side is also where the heart is located. A mother holding her child close to her heart means that the baby will always be able to sense the mother via her heartbeat. This helps not only to build a bond physically by regulating temperature, but also emotionally by helping to keep the baby calm. On Mother’s Day, show mom that you hold her close to your heart, just as she literally did for you. As soon as you hear the upbeat oom pah pah of the Chicken Dance song, you know what happens next. Everyone heads to the dance floor and spends the next few minutes dancing in unison. Since it debuted in the 1950s, this silly little song has become a mainstay at weddings and Oktoberfest celebrations. In 1996, fans of the song took things to the extreme, setting the record for world’s largest Chicken Dance. 72,000 people were all flapping their arms and shaking their tail feathers at once. On National Dance Like A Chicken Day, shake things up with an impromptu dance. Even if you’re a party of one, it’s hard not to smile when you’re pretending to be poultry. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Frog Is Celebrated For Her Amazing Leap! Welcome to May 13, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate good old American favorites. Americans didn’t invent frog jumping, but we know where the most celebrated contest originated. That would be Calaveras County, California back in 1849. Thanks to Mark Twain, these amphibian olympics are still celebrated throughout the country to this day. While his story had three different names, Twain landed on The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County and his frog Dan’l Webster immortalized this curious event. For the record it’s Rosie the Ribeter who holds the title for highest jump, coming in at a whopping 21 feet, 5-¾ inches. On National Frog Jumping Day, join the fun at a local event, or take it easy on the couch with a good read that is still as American as… Apple Pie? There are few things more American than apple pie. Which is kinda funny if you look into the dessert’s history. The expression originated in the 1900s, but the first record of an apple pie recipe comes from England in 1381. The list of ingredients included, of course, apples, but also figs, raisins, pears, and saffron. All the other fruit was added because sugar was very expensive and the extra fruits sweetened the food naturally. So why do we say apple pie is American? Probably just because it’s awesome and we decided to claim it for ourselves. On National Apple Pie Day, celebrate with a slice of this delicious classic. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
Can A Robot Write A Decent Poem? Welcome to May 12, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate an ancient technology and the future of poetry. There have been so many technological advancements in the past century that sometimes it’s hard to keep track. Inventions seem to come and go, especially in the digital age. But a few devices have stood the test of time. Like the odometer. This device was invented way back in 15 BCE by the Roman engineer Vitruvius. He rigged up a chariot wheel with a feature that would drop a pebble into an attached box after the wheel had turned 400 times—which was exactly a mile. At the end of a trip, the driver would determine the distance traveled by counting the number of pebbles that had dropped into the box. Keep track of how far you’ve come today on National Odometer Day. And now the poetic stylings of Marlo Anderson and his new AI assistant. Drum roll please… Marlo: There once was an odometer bright. Whose numbers did spin day and night. As the wheels went round, miles were steading found and the driver was filled with delight. Anyone can google up an old chestnut, but on National Limerick Day, don’t be afraid to pull out all the stops and take the road less traveled. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
Some Foods Feed Your Body And Others Feed Your Soul. Welcome to May 11, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate comfort food and scary television. We give you permission today to skip the calorie counting and serve up your favorite comfort food. Chips, cookies, pizza, or maybe some cake. Just enjoy yourself. In fact I would go so far as to recommend that you celebrate National Eat What You Want Day every day, but then again, I’ve lived in France, so my motto is - if it tastes really good - just eat it! There is food that feeds your body and food that feeds your soul. Am I right, guys? The next time you find yourself in the window seat of an airplane, check out the wall above the window. If you see a sticker shaped like a small, black triangle, then you’re in the best spot to view the wing flaps. It’s called William Shatner’s Seat, a reference to the famous Twilight Zone episode called Nightmare at 20,000 Feet. Shatner’s character spots a monster on the wing of his flight and watches in horror as the beast tears the wing apart. But when he alerts the crew, Shatner realizes that no one can see the monster but him. Today is National Twilight Zone Day, a perfect time to revisit this classic series. We just don’t recommend it as in-flight viewing. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
These Eggs Come All Ready For Easter! Welcome to May 10, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate nutty bridges and colorful eggs. The Lewis and Clark Bridge spans the Columbia River, serving as an important link between Oregon and Washington. But just a few miles away in Longview, is a lesser known bridge called the Nutty Narrows. In 1963, Longview resident Amos Peters was distressed by the number of squirrels that died trying to make it across the busy street near his office. So he constructed a 60-foot suspension bridge between two trees that allowed the squirrels to pass the street safely. If you happen to be in Longview stop by and see it along with the statue erected in Mr. Peters’ honor. On National Washington Day, we celebrate the Evergreen State, the only state named after a US president. Buying eggs at the grocery store is a fairly bland affair when it comes to color—everything is either brown or white. Most of the eggs we buy come from a variety of chicken known as the Leghorn. But there are plenty of other chicken breeds that lay much more colorful eggs. There’s a breed called the Cuckoo Blubber that produces blue-green colored eggs. If that’s not your hue, a Maran chicken will lay you some red eggs. But perhaps you want even more color variety. Then check out the hybrid breed called the Easter Egger. This bird lays pink, green, and blue eggs and it’s totally random. May is National Egg Month, when you can enjoy a variety of new colors and delicious recipes. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
What Happens At Sleepovers Stays At Sleepovers! Welcome to May 9, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate fun in your PJs and losing your socks. Hey do guys remember sleepovers as a kid? On National Sleepover Day remember that what happens at sleepovers stays at sleepovers. Some mysteries may never be solved. Who built Stonehenge? What goes on in Area 51? And perhaps the greatest of them all: why do so many socks disappear from the dryer? It’s completely frustrating! You do a load of laundry with all your perfectly good pairs of socks. Maybe they are plain and white, or perhaps they have a picture of your dog on them. It doesn’t matter. The great dryer mystery does not discriminate. It will consume any and all socks, but only one from each pair. We are gathered today to remember these lost items on National Lost Sock Memorial Day. We celebrate the joy they once gave us, and hope that our favorite Argyle friend will find its match in sock heaven. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
People Used To Scratch Their Heads Over How To Ship This Tropical Ingredient. Welcome to May 8, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate finding your groove and tropical dreams. The human voice may be the oldest musical instrument. But drums have to be a close second. The act of banging a stick against an object is a simple yet effective way to create sound. No one knows exactly who invented the drum, but the instrument has been around a very long time. The remains of drums from over 7,500 years ago have been found in China and Egypt. They were used for religious ceremonies as well as entertainment, evolving over the centuries into the drum sets we know today. Get your groove on during International Drum Month by tapping out a beat! Marlo I have seen you do that on the steering wheel of your car! Tropical fruits were all the rage in the 1800s, as Americans and Europeans took great care to import bananas and pineapples. But people scratched their heads over how to ship coconuts. It was the French who decided to shred and dry the coconut meat for easier shipping from Ceylon, and voila, a new ingredient emerged. From here it was a short hop, skip and a jump into delicious desserts such as custards and pies. And anyone who enjoys this creamy confection, is likely to whip one up for any occasion. On National Coconut Cream Pie Day, we celebrate this exotic flavor that is now a part of our favorite recipes. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
Imitation Is The Sincerest Form Of Flattery. Welcome to May 7, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate thinking outside the package and sweet success. It’s been said that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. And while that may be true, it wasn’t for Coca-Cola in the early 1900s. Its product was so popular that dozens of knockoff beverages had hit the market and were cutting into Coke’s business. They decided the best way to combat this was to create a distinctive bottle. This new design not only made it stand out in a crowd, it quickly became so recognizable that people could look at it and immediately associate it with the brand. On National Packaging Design Day, take a moment to appreciate the thought that goes into the boxes and bottles we see everyday that put those products above the rest. When life hands you lemons, you make lemonade. The first Sunday of May invites you to visit the website lemonadeday.org to find new ways to inspire young people and their lemonade stand businesses. This organization teaches them to first, set a goal, second, make a plan, third, work the plan and fourth, achieve your dream. Of course you’ll want to get a jump start on the planning so your kids can have every opportunity to succeed. What better way to learn about running a small business than by starting one? On National Lemonade Day don’t forget to kick back and sip the juicy rewards! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
Don't Forget To Pick Up Your Free Comic Book Today! Welcome to May 6, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate good stuff for free and dedicated nurses. If you haven’t been paying attention to the exploits of your favorite masked heroes, today is the day to get caught up. Each year on the first Saturday of May, comic book stores around the country give away free issues of their most in-demand titles. This tradition began in 2001, when superheroes began to appear on the big screen. Publishers realized that casual fans had questions about their favorite heroes and decided that this could help to build business. On Free Comic Book Day you can drop in and pick up a limited-edition of anything from the Avengers to Archie Comics. This year, there are over 40 titles to choose from, so get out and support your local comic book store. You might find a new favorite hero (or villain) to cheer for. In the midst of the Civil War, an unlikely hero emerged. This person was not a soldier or even a politician. Clara Barton, a trained nurse, was working as a patent clerk, when she decided to leave her civilian post to serve in the conflict. She attended the sick and injured troops on both sides of the front line, bringing food and medical attention wherever it was needed most. This earned Clara Barton the unofficial distinction of being an Angel of the Battlefield. She went on to found the American Red Cross and is celebrated today in both the North and the South. On National Nurses Day we celebrate the hard work and dedication of the people on our front lines today. I’m Anna Devere and I’m John McClain. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
Today We Celebrate The Heroes Who Were Willing To Go First! Welcome to May 5, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate Mexican independence and reaching for the stars. In 1862, France tried to take over Mexico. The country had defaulted on loan payments to France, and the European nation was so angry that it sent troops to Mexico to resolve things with force. Normally, the United States would have intervened, but was in the midst of civil war…and France took advantage of the situation. As the French army marched toward Mexico City, it had to pass through the town of Puebla. There, a small force of Mexican soldiers, though badly outnumbered, beat the French and sent them running back to the coast. Cinco de Mayo celebrates this victory and the fiercely independent spirit of our southern neighbor. ¡Viva México! If you were alive on this day in 1961 to watch the Freedom 7 Space capsule and its 15 minute orbit, chances are good you can still feel the excitement of that moment. Astronaut Alan Shepard is regarded as a hero today and no matter your age or how you spend your time on earth, one truth remains constant, “Space Inspires.” Today we celebrate the pioneers like Shepard and many others who were willing to risk it all and go first. We know that our kids will reach new frontiers as they stand on the shoulders of these giants. On National Astronaut Day, reach for the stars and support the programs that teach the next generation of space explorers, who already know that the sky’s the limit! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
May The Fourth Be With You! Welcome to May 4, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate epic movies and fancy birds. Male birds tend to be more beautiful than their female companions. And there’s a reason. In the bird world, the female chooses her mate based on how he woos her—and this involves catching her eye. Take, the Costa’s Hummingbird, who puts on an elaborate aerial show in front of the lady he’s courting. Twisting and turning and doing mid-air tricks, he shows off his radiant green body in the hopes that she’ll want him. But then he has to pull off the big finale: puffing out the plumes on his head to look like a big purple dandelion. And even then, she might shrug and fly away. Suddenly, swiping right doesn’t seem like such a big deal, does it? On Bird Day celebrate the eye-catching dance rituals that you thankfully don’t have to pull off yourself. A long time ago, in a decade far, far away…well, a few decades away…1977 to be exact. We all know the story; George Lucas created Star Wars and movie going has never been the same. Wookies and droids, the Empire and the Rebellion, we love the franchise but…where would we be without those iconic sounds? Ben Burtt was Lucas’ sound designer and is responsible for most of the sounds such as blasters and lightsabers but how did he do it in the age before computers? Imagination, trial and error! Burtt tapped a high tension wire with a mallet to get that laser blaster noise. For the lightsaber he waved a microphone in front of a speaker playing electronic noise and recorded the sounds he created. On National Star Wars Day, grab the popcorn and don’t forget to thank Ben Burtt for the most iconic sounds of all time. I’m Anna Devere and I’m John McClain. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
Everyone Should Have Something In Their Closet From The Camelid Family, Right? Welcome to May 3, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the big sky state and fancy fabric. Today we’re celebrating Big Skies, Yellowstone, Glaciers and grizzlies. It's National Montana Day and we’re celebrating the Treasure State, from Missoula to Miles City and everywhere in between. Montana became our 41st state on November 8, 1889. Montana has an average of only 7.5 people per square mile, the national average is 75! It’s the only state that has only one time zone (Mountain time!) and the largest snowflake ever was recorded in Fort Keogh with a diameter of 15 inches! Only California has more hiking trails and Montana has more than 100 mountain ranges in its western half. And finally, only one gem from North America is included in England’s Crown Jewels, the Montana Yogo Sapphire. Take a road trip across the Big Sky State on National Montana Day! If you are into luxury items then be sure to add something made of vicuña wool to your list of “must haves.” Companies that manufacture cashmere and merino wool goods know this specialty textile as the world’s most expensive fabric. It comes from the vicuña, an animal in the camelid family that lives in the Andes mountains. Vicuña are wild and more difficult to catch than their alpaca and llama cousins. Their wool can only be shorn every two to three years, but being as it is exceptionally fine, soft and warm, vicuña wool is worth the wait. The price on the other hand may give most people pause, as a yard of this wool starts at $3,000 and can cost up to $4,300 for adding a gold thread. On National Textiles Day celebrate something in your price range with a wide variety of choices. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Smelly Food Is Worth More Than Its Weight In Gold. Welcome to May 2, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a month of pedaling and smelly fungus. Anna: John! Check out my new bike! John: Wow Anna, that’s pretty cool! It reminds me of the bikes when I was a kid, I had one with a sissy bar and those chopper handlebars, man, I went everywhere on that bike! Anna: That’s so cool! Do you have a bike now? John: I do! Wanna go for a ride? Anna: You know it! It’s National Bike Month so grab your bike and let’s go for a ride… you coming? John: I thought you’d never ask, here I come! If you’re a fan of all things chocolate, then the word “truffle” brings to mind rich, decadent candy. But if you’re a connoisseur of the fungus kind then you know truffles are a culinary treat. Truffles are mushrooms that grow underground, and when they are ready for harvesting, they give off an odor that is best detected by a pig or a dog. This pungent aroma is what gives them their characteristic flavor and ridiculously high price. But buyer beware; most truffles lose this flavor after only four days! For a product that fetches up to $350 an ounce, the market can be full of counterfeits. It’s best to buy them from a reputable supplier. Or better yet, celebrate National Truffle Day by dining out at your favorite fancy restaurant. I’m Anna Devere and I’m John McClain. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
On this episode of Celebrate Every Day, hosts Anna Devere and John McClain discover the real story behind the Old Women In The Shoe on National Mother Goose Day and discuss why all you need is this on Global Love Day.
On this episode of Celebrate Every Day, hosts Marlo Anderson and Anna Devere pay tribute to Mr. Famous, and his Hollywood mom on National Pet Parents Day, and they cue up some Looney Tunes and grab some carrots with a side of sarcasm on National Bugs Bunny Day!
On this episode of Celebrate Every Day , hosts Anna Devere and Marlo Anderson talk about the 70s movie that kept kids out of the water on National Pool Opening Day. They also chat about the inventor of this fashion staple on National Zipper Day.
On this episode of Celebrate Every Day, hosts Anna Devere and Marlo Anderson highlight the Human Torch on National Superhero Day. They also offer the scoop on a heart led organization that supports families in their time of need on National BraveHearts Day.
On this episode of Celebrate Every Day, hosts Anna Devere and Marlo Anderson discover an amazing tale on National Tell a Story Day. They also learn where the word “ruthian” comes from and talk famous stats on National Babe Ruth Day.
On this episode of Celebrate Every Day, hosts Marlo Anderson and Anna Devere unearth a huge celebrity from the Badlands on National South Dakota Day, and shake things up with real low down on National Richter Scale Day.
In this episode of Celebrate Every Day, hosts Marlo Anderson and Anna Devere talk hot guitars for International Guitar Month, and a record breaking phone call for National Telephone Day.
On this episode of Celebrate Every Day, hosts Anna Devere and Marlo Anderson, decide what's on their bucket list, with help from John McClain for National Bucket List Day. They also discuss the party food that disappears first on National Pigs In A Blanket Day.
On this episode of Celebrate Every Day, hosts Anna Devere and Marlo Anderson dine al fresco on National Picnic Day and break down the bard on National Talk Like Shakespeare Day
On this episode of Celebrate Every Day, hosts Anna Devere and Marlo Anderson discover new ways to celebrate the Earth from Wellness Guru Jessica Acheson aka the Real Raw Momma for Earth Day. They also dish on the history of a sweet treat that dates all the way back to the Civil War on National Jelly Bean Day.
On today's episode of Celebrate Every Day, hosts Marlo Anderson and Anna Devere kick off their shoes and talk backyard history for Lawn and Garden Month, they also fill us in on the history of National Kindergarten Day.
On this episode of Celebrate Every Day, hosts Marlo Anderson and Anna Devere explore an infamous doppelganger on National Look Alike Day and serve up some fun facts on National Pineapple Upside Down Cake Day.
On this episode of Celebrate Every Day, hosts Marlo Anderson and Anna Devere breakdown the dos and don'ts of garlic lore on National Garlic Day and John stumps Marlo with some facts about his own home State on National North Dakota Day.
Today on Celebrate Every Day, hosts Marlo Anderson and Anna Devere check out some interesting advice on National Columnists' Day, and yack about crackers on National Animal Crackers Day.
On this episode of Celebrate Every Day, hosts Marlo Anderson and Anna Devere bust out some cheesy history on National Cheeseball Day and pay respects to the very first lassie to enter the gates on National Cheeseball Day
On this episode of Celebrate Every Day, hosts Marlo Anderson and Anna Devere celebrate accountants everywhere who have just finished their busiest season on National Bean Counter Day. They also breakdown the history of a breakfast fit for a Pope, which begs the question, "Which Benedict came first?" on National Eggs Benedict Day.
On this episode of Celebrate Every Day, hosts Marlo Anderson and Anna Devere pay respect to some of the military's most unsung heroes on Purple Up! Day. They also discover some eerie coincidences on National Titanic Remembrance Day.
On this episode of Celebrate Every Day, hosts Marlo Anderson and Anna Devere crack open the controversary of how this nut is pronounced on National Pecan Day. They also discover a unique organization that highlights the bond between humans and this aquatic wonder on National Dolphin Day.
On this episode of Celebrate Every Day, hosts Marlo Anderson and Anna Devere discover some of the surprising things this United States President is known for on National Thomas Jefferson Day. They also dig into a board game that was invented during the Great Depression that is still popular today on National Scrabble Day
On this episode of Celebrate Every Day, hosts Marlo Anderson and Anna Devere marvel at all the things to do in the 38th State on National Colorado Day. They also chew on the fun facts of a candy you might want to avoid on National Licorice Day.
The 38th State Has Endless Possibilities For Fun! Welcome to April 12, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate our 38th State and a polarizing flavor. Today we’re celebrating our 38th state, home of the fourteeners, the tallest dunes in North America and the home of the highest paved road in the US. But not everything in the Centennial State is at elevation, about 40% of the state is made up of the Eastern Plains with topography more like Kansas or Nebraska. We’re, of course, talking about Colorado; home of the Rocky Mountains, Denver (the mile high city) and the cheeseburger! Leadville, Colorado is the highest incorporated city in the US at 10151 feet above sea level, you can visit the grave of Buffalo Bill in Golden, Colorado and you can visit four National Parks in Colorado…road trip! On National Colorado Day, celebrate the State with endless things to do! Licorice is one of those foods that people either love or hate. Yes, there’s red licorice, but that’s really just cherry flavored candy shaped into a long string. The real stuff is an acquired taste. But even among black licorice fans, one kind puts this love to the test, salty licorice. Popular in Germany and Scandinavian countries, you may wonder what on Earth inspired someone to take a bitter candy and make it even more bitter. Salty licorice actually started as a cough remedy and for some reason, people liked it. Liked it so much that it’s not just found in licorice form. For the rest of us there are plenty of other flavors that don’t hang our taste buds out to dry. On National Licorice Day chew on these fun facts and leave the salty kind to the die-hards. I’m Anna Devere, and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
On this episode of Celebrate Every Day, hosts Marlo Anderson and Anna Devere launch an adventure on National Submarine Day. They also take a groovy walk down memory lane for National Eight Track Tape Day.
On this episode of Celebrate Every Day, hosts Marlo Anderson and Anna Devere dish on the upside of critters for National Farm Animals Day, and recall a brotherhood that made their mark on the darker side of American history for National Siblings Day.
On this episode of Celebrate Every Day, hosts Marlo Anderson and Anna Devere discuss the suprising past of one of the most celebrated Prime Ministers in British history on National Winston Churchill Day. They also tackle the truth behind the legendary symbol of magic and purity on National Unicorn Day.
This Flaky Pastry Is Popular Around The World.Welcome to April 8, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a popular pastry and a walk through the animal kingdom.Empanadas are a baked or fried pastry common in Spanish culture around the world. They are thought to have originated in Galicia, a region in Spain but similar foods are found in every culture. In Japan they have gyoza, the Polish have the pierogi, the British have the pasty and the Italians have the panzerotti. I guess taking tasty filling, wrapping it in yummy, flaky dough and deep frying it in oil is pretty popular no matter where you are. I’ll take one from El Salvador where the dough is made with plantains and you can get them filled with vanilla custard! Or a few from Argentina, filled with potatoes, peppers and ground chili or peas and garlic. On National Empanada Day, celebrate at breakfast, lunch and dinner and don’t forget dessert!People have been fascinated by animals for centuries with the oldest public zoo opening in Vienna in 1752. The Holy Roman Emperor himself traveled around the globe to find the exotic animals that would be displayed there. Here in the United States, the Central Park Zoo began as an accidental menagerie when a bear cub was left at the park in 1859. The bear attracted visitors and eventually more exotic animals turned up at Central Park. A formal zoo charter was granted in 1864 and even President Lincoln donated animals. With about 2,400 zoos in the United State alone, lions and tigers and bears are practically in your own backyard. On National Zoo Lovers Day, celebrate a trip around the animal kingdom in one easy stroll.I’m Anna Devere, and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
Today We Feature A Very Special Guest! Welcome to April 7, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate women empowering women and man’s other best friend. Anna: I am so excited to introduce a guest in the studio today Dr. Symonia Montgomery Johnson. Welcome! Dr. Symonia founded National Girl Me Too Day back in 2017 after she and a friend discovered something they had in common. Now we’re not gonna go there, but can I just say “Girl, me too!” What can you tell me about women empowering women Dr. Montgomery? Dr. Symonia: I think that if you teach a person to fish they eat for a lifetime. So empowering another woman gives them the authority to be empowered the rest of their lives. Anna: I am so glad that you are here in Vegas cause I can't wait to play with you. Dr. Symonia: Girl, me too! Anna: Please visit her website girlmetoo.com to find out more and follow her on Instagram @girl_metoo. Today is National Beer Day and we’re celebrating all the flavors of this favorite beverage. From hoppy to smooth, light to dark, beer is the most widely consumed alcoholic drink on the planet. But not all beers are alcoholic, the fastest growing segment of the beer market is actually non alcoholic beers which are expected to surpass 29 billion with a "b" dollars by 2026! The most expensive beer costs half a million dollars! On National Beer Day, celebrate your favorite flavor and man's other best friend. I’m Anna Devere and I’m John McClain filling in for Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
On this episode of Celebrate Every Day, hosts Anna Devere and John McClain feature the founder of National Girl Me Too Day, Dr. Symonia Montgomery Johnson. They also break down the world's most popular alcoholic drink and a few facts that may surprise you on National Beer Day.
On this episode of Celebrate Every Day, hosts John McClain and Anna Devere highlight a record breaking burrito eater on National Burrito Day and discuss how this fabric earned its stripes on National Tartan Day.
On today's episode of Celebrate Every Day, hosts John McClain and Anna Devere discover the real hero of the Star Trek series on First Contact Day, and lots of cool facts about the Corn Husker State for National Nebraska Day.
On this episode of Celebrate Every Day, hosts John McClain and Anna Devere feature the Can-Do spirit of a vehicle that helped turn the tide of WWII on Jeep 4x4 Day They also whip up a tasty super shake for National Vitamin C Day!
On this episode of Celebrate Every Day hosts John McClain and Anna Devere savor the Parisian flavor of National Chocolate Mousse Day. And learn about the notorious history of National Tweed Day.
On today's episode of Celebrate Every Day hosts Marlo Anderson and Anna Devere disover the high class origins of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for National Peanut Butter And Jelly Day, and "ferret out” a surprisingly helpful pet on National Ferret Day.
In this episode of "Celebrate Every Day" hosts Marlo Anderson and Anna Devere discuss the origins of sour dough bread, and how it came to be associated with San Francisco. They also find out some strange facts about each other!
Some Jobs Are Harder Than They Look.Welcome to February 4th, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate being under pressure and exemplary service, even in fowl play. Anna: Have you heard of a tardigrade, Marlo?Marlo: I have no idea.Anna: Also known as the water bear, they're super small animals can survive in the harshest conditions of heat and cold. They are found near volcanoes and the bottom of the ocean and it turns out they are even found in a vacuum in space. Do you know how a vacuum in space occurs?Marlo: I thought it was already a vacuum.Anna: No, a vacuum is created when the pressure inside a space is lower than the pressure outside the area. Do you know how to do this at home Marlo?Marlo: Of course not.Anna: You can do this with a syringe, by pulling back on the stopper and creating a space that is free of matter.Marlo: Oh, interesting. Why are you telling me all these useless facts, you’re making my head hurt.Anna: I’m celebrating National Create A Vacuum Day. Did it work?John: Watch out Mr. Dyson.Benjamin Franklin founded the United States Postal Service in 1775. Since then mail carriers have been getting the job done for more than two centuries, delivering letters in the trillions. This may sound easy, except that it’s not. In 2017 the normal delivery route in Rocky River, Ohio was plagued by an army of ruffians; a gang of ten wild turkeys. The mail carriers were pecked and swarmed as they tried to deliver mail and service to more than 30 homes was disrupted for several weeks. With the help of the Ohio Wildlife Division, loud noises scared off the birds and the postal workers delivered the mail once again. On National Thank A Mail Carrier Day we celebrate a job well done that happens come rain or shine or fowl play.I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Welcome to December 4, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate rolling out the fun in cookie dough and perfect pairs. Cookies have been called by many names but they all translate into one sentiment: num, num, num num. Here in the United States, National Cookie Day was first proclaimed by Sesame Street’s Cookie Monster. Of course we all know he celebrates cookies every day. Then in 1987, Matt Nader of the Blue Chip Cookie Company in San Francisco created Cookie Day and it has been celebrated on this day ever since. So here’s the desert island question: “What’s the one cookie you guys couldn’t live without? On National Cookie Day celebrate your own favorite kind that makes you say, num, num, num, num, num.There is still a great mystery around where lost socks go, and you may not appreciate your favorite pair until one goes missing. In ancient times, only the wealthy wore socks. Peasants wore a kind of foot wrap that was more or less a strip of material wound up like a bandage. This kind of sock was still used by Eastern European armies until the late 20th century. The oldest surviving pair of socks was found in Egypt and is believed to be at least 1600 years old. There is a notch in the center for wearing them with sandals, which may have been the last time this look was considered cool. The socks are on display at the Victoria and Albert museum in England and are proof that some pairs stand the test of time. On National Sock Day celebrate this small wonder by sporting your favorite pair.I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to December 3, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate beating the odds and rolling out the holiday spirit. While the game of Bingo seems pretty straightforward, the game is far more complicated than you might think. It’s estimated that there are over 500 septillion combinations of numbers that could appear on your bingo card. A septillion is a 1 with 24 zeros after it. It was Edwin S. Lowe, a salesman from New York who came up with the idea. He then hired a math professor who created 6,000 cards, each with a different non repeating combination of numbers. Bingo halls could make more money with these cards because they cut back on the number of winners. Celebrate Bingo’s Birthday Month with a game that still makes us excited to beat the odds. This is the week to roll out some dough and press it with your favorite holiday cookie cutters. Even the ancient Egyptians liked forming sweet cakes in various shapes and folks in Greece, Rome and Western Europe followed suit. By the 1500s Germans made carved wooden cookie molds and gingerbread men, women and houses popped out by the dozens. American tinsmiths of the 1700s made the cookie cutters we still love today. During National Cookie Cutter Week, roll out your own favorite tradition and watch the holiday cheer appear!I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to December 2, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate loveable mixes and deep fried comfort. In the world of dogs, some come with pedigrees and champion bloodlines that win dog shows time and again, and others are...well, mutts. Unlike their purebred cousins, mutts are what Bob Ross would call “happy little accidents.” While working dogs are bred for a specific purpose such as bird hunting or warming a lap, mutts seem to march to the beat of their own drum. And that’s the very best thing about mutts; their personalities. On National Mutt Day, celebrate the uniquely weird dogs that make the most loveable pets.Fritters are associated with comfort and come in three types: the basic dough kind, the battered meats and vegetables and the small cakes made from chopped food such as corn. Frying food in oil has been around for thousands of years and almost every culture has a tasty version. The technique of batter frying, however, was introduced by the Spanish and Portuguese in the late 16th century. This culinary inspiration spread to Japan, where it became known as tempura. Today just about anything can be frittered from beignets to squash blossoms. And of course there’s always good ole’ apple. On National Fritters Day, celebrate your favorite comfort food, no matter what language you speak.I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to December 1, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a civil rights gamechanger and giving to our furry friends. On December 1, 1955, after a long day of work, Rosa Parks boarded a bus in Montgomery, Alabama. She sat in the “colored section” but as the bus began to fill, the driver demanded that she give up her seat for other passengers. Rosa refused. She was arrested and was later found guilty of violating a city ordinance. What followed made civil rights history. Martin Luther King, Jr. and others had organized the Montgomery Bus Boycott for the day of Rosa’s trial. The boycott succeeded and lasted several months, devastating the transportation system in Montgomery. On Rosa Parks Day we honor the courage and heart of a woman that dared to change a nation. While you may not have room to adopt a pet this season, you can still be a part of a holiday tradition that brings comfort and joy to millions of shelter animals through Operation Santa Paws. This month we celebrate the spirit of giving to our four legged friends to make their stay a little bit brighter until they find their forever home. The cause encourages you to donate blankets, food, toys and money that will make animals feel secure and cared for, which is an important part of keeping them adoptable. And if you’re ready for a new family member, they can help you find that perfect pet. Look for Operation Santa Paws at your local shelters between now and December 24th to bring the holiday spirit to our furry friends. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 30, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate safety in the kitchen and online. Believe it or not, before patent #22186, home canning wasn’t safe. Thanks to John Landis Mason, a tinsmith from New Jersey, the “Improvement on Screw-Neck Bottles,” made it possible to preserve produce right at home. The Mason Jar changed the way we pickle and pack food from our garden and those bumper crops from the Farmer’s Market. They also make a cool holiday gift when you layer dry ingredients for baked goods or other treats for the DIY enthusiasts on your list. On National Mason Jar Day enjoy this versatile vessel and all the gifts it can hold for the ones you love. With so many people shopping online these days it’s important to remember that hackers are surfing the internet as well. Unfortunately, the season for deals is also big for identity theft. So while you’re getting your holiday shopping underway, pay special attention to your online security. Nothing will keep you completely safe, but there are some simple steps you can take to protect yourself. As tempting as it may be, don’t use public wifi to do your shopping and use strong passwords for your online accounts. Be sure to keep your software updated and firewalls in place. On Computer Security Day, take a few minutes to check that you’re browsing the web safely so that you have one less thing to worry about during the holidays. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 29, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate convenient ways to stay connected and the season of giving. When Neil Papworth sent the first ever text to his boss in 1992, he had no idea the impact it would have. The text was pretty simple—it said Merry Christmas—but this message changed the world. Texting has become a part of everyday life. In fact, it’s the most popular form of electronic communication in the world. Last year, 2 trillion texts were sent—and that’s only counting the United States. This form of communication makes it easy to keep in touch with friends and family, no matter where they live. And as we enter the holiday season, thank goodness for that. On Electronic Greetings Day, celebrate by reaching out to those you love. It doesn’t take a lot to lift someone’s spirits during the season of giving. Take the story of Fred Barley. When policemen found 19 year old Fred living in a tent on the campus of a Georgia University, they made plans to evict him. But when they heard that the young student had ridden 6 hours on his little brother’s bicycle with only a tent, some water and a box of cereal, they changed their tune completely. Fred had arrived early for his second semester, planning to look for a job and housing, but was clearly down on his luck. Officer Richard Carreker and his partner put Fred up in a motel and started a GoFundMe for this worthy student. To date, more than 184,000 dollars has been raised for his education. On Giving Tuesday, celebrate your own good fortune by sharing it with those around you. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 28, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate reclaiming lost bread and shopping in your PJs. You may not realize it but French toast, it's actually not French at all. The first known recipe dates all the way back to the 5th century AD. That’s when the Romans whipped up eggs and milk, dipped in bread and fried it in oil or butter. And the recipe has remained more or less the same ever since. In France the name is “pan perdu” which means lost bread. What a perfect description for the magical transformation of stale bread into a golden toasted perfection. Try it with cinnamon and whipped cream, fruit or syrup and lots of melted butter. On National French Toast Day, celebrate this breakfast favorite made anyway you please! Shopping from the convenience of your home has never been easier as we celebrate the phenomenon known as Cyber Monday. What began as a marketing gimmick in 2005 was actually a clever trend prediction by Ellen Davis and Scott Silverman of The National Retail Federation. They noticed the spike in online sales after Black Friday and figured that folks were using the faster internet at work to round out their holiday shopping. A simple press release launched the phrase and the Monday after Thanksgiving became the biggest online shopping day of the year. In recent years that has translated into more than 9 billion dollars in sales. It’s also a win-win for shoppers who enjoy the ease of purchasing from their mobile devices. On Cyber Monday keep calm and shop on. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 27, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate protein on the go and making room for one more pie. The preservation of meat by smoking or drying has been around for a very long time. Evidence of meat jerky is even found in the tombs of ancient Egypt. And this makes sense when you realize that refrigeration has only been around a relatively short while. But today we celebrate the artisanal flair of the folks who produce craft jerky with everything from elk to buffalo and even soybeans and mushrooms. Your taste buds may only be geared for the traditional beef kind originally produced by the South American tribes of the Andes. On National Craft Jerky Day prepare your palate for something savory and something more adventurous if you dare. Today we celebrate an old world treat that began in the capable kitchen of Chef Carême. In the early 19th Century Carême established many of the French cooking techniques we still use today. One of them was using gelatin to stabilize custard cream. While he wasn’t the first to make Bavarian pastry cream, he is certainly known for perfecting the recipe. Gourmet restaurants around France have been serving this pie ever since. And while Bavarian cream shows up in crepes and other desserts, it’s worthy of being the star ingredient in this decadent pie topped with sweetened whipped cream. On National Bavarian Cream Pie Day, celebrate a smooth finish to this hectic week with your own sweet reward. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 26th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate our favorite mom and pop businesses and a dessert there is always room for. You know we’ve been plugging Small Businesses all month, but today it’s time for some specific shout outs. On Small Business Saturday, celebrate the moms and pops who put the fun and goodwill back into the season of giving. Today is National Cake Day and while pie took its role in the spotlight this week, make no mistake; cake with ice cream is America’s favorite dessert. Maybe that’s why they say, “There’s always room for cake.” The word comes from the Old Norse “kaka” and because of the lack of ingredients the cakes made by the Vikings looked more like… gingerbread. Today it is easier than ever to bake light fluffy cake with a perfect crumb. It all starts with having your ingredients at room temperature which allows for plenty of little air pockets to develop in the batter as it is beaten. (Anna aside). That’s right cake baking all comes down to chemistry and with a few tricks you’ll be a master pastry chef in no time. On National Cake Day celebrate having your cake and eating it too. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 25, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate feeling “blah” and being in the black I know people are excited about shopping today, but I feel positively “meh.” The French have a word for this: blasé, meaning “to be indifferent or bored with life.” Blasé actually describes how many of us feel at this time of year. You may just need to hit pause and be unproductive for a while. So today we are giving you permission to blow off whatever is leaving you with that underwhelmed feeling. If you’re absolutely over “pumpkin spice everything” or the 20 page Christmas letter you’re supposed to read, go ahead and be blasé. On National Blasé Day, it’s okay to celebrate “doing nothing.” Shopping today is hectic, but certainly not awful, so why does it have such a bleak name? Turns out that the phrase “Black Friday” was first used in 1869, when plummeting gold prices crashed the market. It was also used by traffic police in the 1950s to describe the surge in traffic jams caused by post holiday shoppers. The silver lining explanation goes something like this. Through most of the year, retailers are losing money, which is known as “being in the red.” When Christmas shopping starts, sales go way up, and they’re “in the black.” No matter how you see it, Black Friday is a great day to find amazing deals on gifts for friends and family. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 24, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate freedom of choice and a meal that brings us together. Anna: In this season of gratitude, perhaps some of you are grateful you don’t have to cook a turkey today. Is anyone out there celebrating Turkey Free Thanksgiving? Yep that’s a thing. I know you cook turkey two ways John. John: That's right - roasting and smoking. Anna: And you probably aren’t on the hook at all for cooking a bird, eh Marlo? Marlo: I just show up. John: Come on down! Anna: But in case anyone else wants to take this off the menu it’s totally legit. Think of all the time you’ll save and wondering whether to brine or not to brine. We probably should have told you in advance this was an option. But if you find yourself with a roasting emergency, don’t call the turkey hotline, just announce that you’re proudly celebrating a Turkey Free Thanksgiving. Sarah Hale, the author of Mary Had a Little Lamb, played a key role in our celebration of Thanksgiving. In 1862, she wrote to President Lincoln, asking him to make Thanksgiving a national holiday. Though he didn’t respond for another year, Lincoln fulfilled her request in the midst of the Civil War. He declared the holiday by asking Americans to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November as a Day of Thanksgiving and Prayer. Today we carry on that tradition in many different ways but Thanksgiving Day is still an opportunity to bring family and friends together in the spirit of gratitude. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 23, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate speedy drinks rocking around the clock. The Italian word espresso means ‘quick in time.’ In the coffee houses and cafes of the late 1800s this simply meant a coffee made expressly for the person ordering it with freshly roasted and ground coffee beans. Then in 1901 it all changed. Luigi Bezzera invented the modern espresso machine which brewed a smaller, more concentrated cup even faster than other methods. With it came an intoxicating layer of creamy foam on the top known as crema. For coffee drinkers this is the holy grail of flavor. It’s the secret behind delicious coffee creations from lattes to cappuccinos. It’s also preferred by bakers for the true coffee flavor it adds to cheesecakes, ice cream and tiramisu. On National Espresso Day, espresso your own love for coffee. When Thomas Edison invented the phonograph in the late 1800s, the machines were far too expensive for most people to own. So businesses opened listening parlors, where people could pay a nickel to listen to a song, hence the name nickelodeons. Each one was equipped with 4 listening horns, which meant you could listen with friends. Eventually, the machines were designed with amplifiers and were able to play multiple records. Jukebox music is still fun today as it gives you an excuse to hang out with friends who are home for the holidays. On National Jukebox Day, drop a few coins in the machine and dance the night away. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 22, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate spicing things up and a sauce with pucker power. When you think of peppers, you probably think of spicy foods. And while that’s true, there are many varieties of pepper. Like the bell pepper, a mild version. These colorful fruits—yes, peppers are fruits—have more vitamin C than oranges and they’re chock full of vitamin A. But of course, there are spicy peppers too, like the habanero or the Carolina Reaper. If for some reason you bite into one of these fiery peppers, don’t reach for a glass of water. That’ll only make things worse. Grab a glass of milk or some ice cream to cool the heat. November is National Pepper Month, a time to test your tolerance for kicking up the heat! The cranberry relish we know and love originated in the early 1900s. When a New England lawyer purchased a cranberry bog in 1912 he had no idea of the empire he would build. He found that fresh cranberries had a short shelf life and the window for harvesting and selling them was relatively small. The canning process delivered a solution to extend their marketability and 100 years later we still enjoy this sweet tart flavor produced by the Ocean Spray company. While plenty of folks like to spice up their own recipe made from fresh cranberries, the jiggly kind that comes in a can is a perennial favorite. Celebrate National Cranberry Relish Day, with a sauce that is good any day of the year! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 21, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate stepping up our stuffing and a royal cookie. I’ve always wondered why we celebrate National Stuffing Day ahead of Thanksgiving, but I think I have the answer: it’s never too early to plan the big meal. At my house the stuffing is made with homemade rolls that I make days in advance. The smell of fresh bread is an appetizer itself, but add some onions, celery, poultry herbs and broth and it’s pretty much the favorite side dish at our house. Do you guys have a favorite recipe? On National Stuffing Day, give a new recipe a whirl and see what lands as a new tradition. Cookies usually come in the standard shapes of round or squares. But only one kind is synonymous with the human form; the gingerbread man. So how did this cute little cookie come to be? Surprisingly, we have Queen Elizabeth I to thank for that. In preparing for a certain royal banquet, she instructed her baker to decorate the gingerbread to look like the world leaders and dignitaries in attendance. This was so popular that the idea made its way to the masses and with that a tradition was born. Now that’s food for thought! On National Gingerbread Cookie Day, run, run, as fast as you can and catch one of these tasty little creations. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 20, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate all things absurd and keeping a lid on dinner. Anna: National Absurdity Day comes but once a year, but around here we like to point out odd things every day. Right guys? Marlo: Yes! Have you heard us in between takes? John: I mean it's kind of absurd that we're talking about absurdity. Marlo: Because we were just being absurd right now. It's kind of crazy! John: Like Marlo and I were just talking about if you take your shorts off and you flip them into the air with your foot and catch them it's how you can test whether or not you still have good balance. Marlo: That's correct! Except when you kick them and you shove your foot into the bed post, which is what I did two days ago. Anna: I am sorry I opened this can of worms. On National Absurdity Day go ahead and scoff at the off the wall things that make you go, “Hmmmm.” As we gather together with our families this week, we can be sure of a few things, people will eat too much and someone will stir up a family ruckus. It’s time to plan ahead, not only for Thanksgiving dinner, but also what to do before and after the feast is served. Games bring people together, which is exactly what this holiday is about. Yes, there may be some arguments, but it is better to scrap over who owns Park Place than so many other things. Puzzles can keep our heads occupied, even through the post meal brain fog. If you have something for everyone, your family dinner is bound to go smoothly. During National Game and Puzzle Week, keep things fun and light, while dinner does the heavy lifting. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 19, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate catching a bubbly buzz and some friendly competition. Here in North America more than 90 percent of us enjoy caffeine every single day. But not all of us enjoy tea or coffee. If you love the buzz of caffeinated soda you can thank a German Chemist who first isolated caffeine from coffee beans in 1819. In England, Joseph Priestly discovered how to create carbonation, which was useful for medicinal tonics that later became known as sodas. This method of infusing water with carbon dioxide is more popular than ever thanks to the addition of caffeine. On National Carbonated Beverage With Caffeine Day, we celebrate the satisfying combination that most of us could not do without. Have you ever wondered why the playing pieces for Monopoly are so random? You can thank a bunch of kids for that. The classic board game Monopoly was invented in the 1930s by Charles Darrow and based on the properties and street names of Atlantic City, New Jersey. When it came to the playing pieces, he asked his nieces for help. And they picked through metal charms from a bracelet to create the bizarre collection that includes an iron, a race car, a thimble, and a top hat. Little did they know how many people would fight over the race car over the years. On National Play Monopoly Day, you may enjoy an overly competitive game, just don’t forget the spirit of fun for which it was invented! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 18, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate cold soup and a mighty mouse. Though some like it hot, most people know the soup Vichyssoise is best served cold. Here in the States this French classic was first served at the Ritz Carlton by chef Louis Diat in the Summer of 1917. The chef was inspired to recreate the potato and leek soup of his childhood in France. But how did the French come to love cold soup anyway? Some believe that the tradition began with King Louis the XV who was so afraid of being poisoned that he had many servants taste his soup first. By the time it was approved for his consumption, the soup was cold and that is how King Louis came to prefer it. On National Vichyssoise Day we invite you to rediscover this culinary classic. We give a shout out today to the world’s most popular cartoon character: Mickey Mouse. Here are a few facts about Walt Disney’s loveable rodent, that you might not have heard. His original name was Mortimer, but Disney’s wife made him change it. His first appearance was in the 1928 silent cartoon, Steamboat Willie. Mickey didn’t speak until the following year’s animated feature The Carnival Kid, in which he worked as a food vendor. His first words were “Hot dog! Hot dog!” He was the first animated character to get a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1978. Today we celebrate the birthday of this little mouse who’s made a big impact. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Some kids find their calling early on. For young Ilan Ethan his mother’s punishment became his passion. Ilan’s Greek mother and grandmother banned the kids from the kitchen, but the plucky boy couldn’t resist sneaking into this wonderland. As a penance, his mother put him to work rolling out thin layers of phyllo dough. Little did she know, Ilan would master the technique along with the alchemy of making delicious baklava. Today he produces more than 7 different flavors inspired by global variations like Persian date and almond and Egyptian walnut and fig. For that we can thank the Ottoman Empire that held power over so many regions. Lucky for us you can order some online through Instagram @baklavaslasvegas. Or pop over to the Las Vegas Farmer’s Market on National Baklava Day. Who doesn’t love the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked bread? Today we celebrate the tradition of making it at home. This day was established in the 1980s by the The Homemade Bread Committee from Ann Arbor, Michigan. The celebration is all about family and friends slowing down, exchanging recipes, and enjoying the process of baking bread together. Maybe you already know how satisfying this tradition can be, and if not, it's time to learn some well kept secrets that have been around since the dawn of time. One thing is for sure: National Homemade Bread Day will bring joy to any home that is willing to bake bread together. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 16, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a helpful notion and food served lickity split. Dalton Stevens of South Carolina, discovered a useful way to beat insomnia. He spent his sleepless nights sewing buttons on a denim jacket for nearly three years. When he had completely covered it with 16,333 buttons, the jacket weighed over 16 pounds! Word got out and people began mailing him buttons which he used to cover shoes, doors and even a commode. In 1990 the Guinness World Records certified that “The Button King” owned the world’s largest collection: 439,900 of them without any duplicates. This hobby served Dalton well as he lived to the ripe old age of 86. On National Button Day, we celebrate these tiny treasures and the many uses they serve. Fast food has its origins in the State of Kansas. In 1921, E.W. Ingram opened a restaurant that you might have heard of...White Castle. They served the same small, square burgers as they do today. And the burgers were shaped that way so that more would fit on the grill. When White Castle opened, burgers were thought of as a food only slightly about table scraps for dogs. In order to dispel that notion, Ingram set up the kitchen so that people could see their food being prepared. His “take out” food diner began selling burgers by the sack, which is now a hallmark of fast food restaurants. On National Fast Food Day, indulge in some of your guilty pleasures, and enjoy the convenience of this “fast meal.” I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 15, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate successful cakes and a legacy of generosity. In 1950, inventor H. David Dalquist created a cake pan for a local women’s group who wanted to bake a traditional kugelhopf or ring-shaped cake. Naming the pan for the German word for bond, Dalquist added the ‘t’ to the end of “bund” and patented the pan in a stroke of foresight genius. At first the pan did not sell well, and his company, Nordic Ware, considered discontinuing it. Then in 1966 the pan was used to create the “Tunnel of Fudge” cake in a Pillsbury bake off that inspired bakers everywhere! Over 200,000 orders for the pan streamed in and over 60 million have been sold to date. On National Bundt Day celebrate the bond of baking with your own family! Giving back to the community is important and no one did that quite like Andrew Carnegie. As a child, he and his family emigrated to the United States from Scotland and he got a job as a bobbin boy at a cotton mill. Decades later, he became a railroad and steel tycoon who had amassed one of the largest fortunes of all time. Adjusting for inflation, he was worth over $350 billion. Wanting to leave the world a better place, Andrew set up pensions for his employees, gave donations that built universities, museums, and nearly 3,000 public libraries. On National Philanthropy Day, we celebrate the successful men and women who make a difference by helping others. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 14, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate all things sour and a day in your PJs. One of the oldest methods of preserving food is pickling. This process involves placing vegetables or fruits in a sealed container with brine or vinegar. The fermentation that takes place changes the flavor and texture of the food, creating pickles, though technically only pickled cucumbers are referred to as “pickles.” Everything else has the word “pickled” before its name. So why do only cucumbers get this honor? Well, for starters, it’s one of the best parts of going to a deli. No corned beef or pastrami sandwich would be complete without one. On National Pickle Day, get your pucker on anyway you please. Nothing makes us feel cozier than spending the day in our pajamas. That's why we love holidays that invite the whole family to enjoy this feeling together. But why wait for the hustle and bustle of the season when any day of the week will do. At least that's the rationale behind National Family PJ Day. A day spent in our jammies means we prioritize things like board games, brunch and extra time curled up together watching movies or reading books. This day is all the better because there are no expectations or traditions beyond hanging out together and keeping it casual. And if you're into matching jammies you might as well snap a few holiday photos so you can check that off your list. Hey, you just started a trend and you're barely out of bed! I’m Anna Devere and I’m John McClain. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 13, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate changing the world and making your mark. The World Kindness Movement began in 1997 in Tokyo, Japan and today includes over 28 countries around the globe. Projects include photo contests that capture moments of goodwill and generosity along with those that mirror the sustainable development goals outlined by the United Nations. But you don’t have to be a formal member to inspire those around you. There are far reaching consequences to simple acts of kindness that you can initiate in your everyday life. In this season of giving you can donate far more than material gifts. On World Kindness Day celebrate making a difference where you stand with acts of courage, positivity and compassion. Samuel Langhorne Clemens worked as a river pilot on the Mississippi River when he was a teen. All the while, he was writing. When the American Civil War brought trade to a halt, he went after his passion. You probably know Mr. Clemens better as Mark Twain, which is actually a nautical term that means the water is deep enough to navigate safely. Sounds like an odd pen name, but that sums up his writing style—smart, quirky, and utterly unexpected. With novels like Tom Sawyer and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, Twain established his place as one of the greatest American authors of all time. November is National Novel Writing Month, a great time to put pen to paper and start writing that book you may already have in your head. I’m Anna Devere and I’m John McClain. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 12, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the tale of two kitchens and the kitchen sink of pizzas. Two Los Angeles restaurants take the credit for inventing the French Dip sandwich, Coles and Philippes. Both feature thinly sliced beef on crusty French bread that is slathered with spicy mustard and dipped in au jus sauce. Coles claims that its French Dip appeared in 1908, when chef Jack Garlinghouse softened the bread of his sandwich for a customer with sore gums. Chef Philippe Mathieu claims he accidentally dropped the bread in a pan with meat drippings and the policeman who ordered it said he would take the sandwich anyway. The next day he returned with his friends and the sandwich became a hit. To this day the French Dipped Sandwich is the star of both menus. On National French Dip Day, celebrate with your own mouth watering version of this American classic. Sharks, halibut and yellowtail fish are not like us, but not for the obvious reason. These creatures actually like anchovies. In fact, anchovies are an important part of the diet for most fish. But putting them on a pizza, well, that’s a different thing altogether. Anchovies are not eaten fresh. Rather, they are salted in brine before they are consumed, by some people anyway. According to surveys, anchovies are the least popular pizza topping, even more disliked than broccoli or pineapple. On National Pizza With the Works Except Anchovies Day, add this topping if you feel like swimming upstream. Otherwise, there are plenty of fish in the sea who enjoy celebrating the opposite. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 11, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate ice cream bliss and our enduring love for Veterans. From the late 1800s on, states passed what were known as Blue Laws. They were intended to prohibit the sale of alcohol on Sunday. But the laws also prevented the sale of soda, which could be used as a mixer. That meant that drug stores couldn’t sell ice cream sodas. In order to keep sales up, a pharmacy in Illinois created the ice cream sundae. The origin of the name for the frozen dessert seems pretty straight forward—it was served on Sunday, so it should be called a sundae. But there’s also a story that someone with the last name Sontagg, which is German for “Sunday” invented it. No matter which version of the story you believe, enjoy your favorite ice cream creation on National Sundae Day. Veterans Day always falls on November 11th to coincide with the ending of World War I. It was originally known as Armistice Day for the treaty that was signed on the 11th day of the 11th month in the 11th hour. It is also a day dedicated to the cause of world peace. While Memorial Day commemorates all those who lost their lives in service to their country and Armed Forces Day honors those in active duty, Veterans Day encompasses all United States military veterans. It is a steadfast reminder of our admiration for those willing to pay the ultimate price to protect our freedoms. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 10th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the sweet life and the military branch that turned the tide of the Revolutionary War. These days everyone could use a little sweetness. And what is sweeter than a personal sized vanilla cake with some buttercream and sprinkles? In fact the bakery known as Sprinkles tapped a trend that has continued to this day with their Los Angeles bakery that opened in 2005. The first recipe for cupcakes appeared in 1796 in Amelia Simmons’ “American Cookery,” and little did she know that chef Candace Nelson would eventually open a cupcake ATM in 2012 with Sprinkles bakeries from coast to coast. Have you guys seen the one in the Las Vegas airport? On National Vanilla Cupcake Day it has never been easier to celebrate the sweet life. After a few defeats at the hands of British forces, George Washington had requested troops that could fight on both land and sea. On November 10, 1775, the Second Continental Congress passed a resolution to create two Battalions of Marines to serve with the Continental Army and these men changed the course of the Revolutionary War. Their first major test came when they landed on hostile shores in the Bahamas and captured New Providence Island. As a result, Captain Samuel Nicholas became the first commissioned officer in the Continental Marines and is celebrated as the Marines first commandant. On the Marine Corps Birthday we celebrate those who are always loyal to each other, their country and their traditions. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 9, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the season of gratitude and a regional favorite. Most people agree that the Thanksgiving meal is one they look forward to all year. And while the tradition of what's on the menu may vary from home to home, the secret ingredient that makes every meal delicious is gratitude. Perhaps you've noticed how counting your blessings makes everything in life appear sweeter, even when it's hard to see the silver lining. When life goes off course try keeping an attitude of gratitude. It's not an essential cooking ingredient, but it is one of life's best kept secrets. During National Gratitude Month, we invite you to watch as the things you're grateful for begin to multiply. If you’re not from Philadelphia, you’ve probably never heard of Scrapple. This regional favorite was brought to Philly by immigrants from Germany, where it was popular with rural communities. Farmers butchered their hogs, and used most of the meat for sausages or bacon, but all of the remaining parts were made into scrapple. The traditional version was made with meat only, but Americans combine it with cornmeal or buckwheat, and form it into a loaf. This is then sliced and fried, and typically served as a breakfast side dish. Today the recipe may also include beef, chicken or turkey. You will see it topped with applesauce, ketchup, maple syrup or horseradish, though not all at the same time. On National Scrapple Day, celebrate by trying something different, which may just be easier now that you know how the sausage is made. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 8, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the technology that inspires us every day. Science and technology are critical to our future. Plus they are just plain cool! That’s why STEM and STEAM education have become increasingly popular. For those of you who aren’t familiar with the terms, STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. The A was added to incorporate Art for a more well rounded curriculum. Young children are curious by nature, so introducing them to science and technology early in life can make a huge difference in their development. Even if your child doesn’t focus on a career in any of these fields, STEM and STEAM education can set them on a path towards success. On National STEM/STEAM Day, take time to inspire the little ones in your life, because they are the ones who will shape our future. What we know as the cappuccino was first served in Vienna coffee houses in the early 1800s. The coffee, when mixed with cream and sugar, took on a shade of brown that reminded baristas of a monk’s robes, specifically, those worn by the Capuchin monks. Hence, the name cappuccino. FYI, the word cappuccino means hood in Italian, and the order of monks got the name because of their hooded robes. It wasn’t until post World War II, that cappuccinos became popular worldwide. And that was due to espresso machines becoming more readily available. On National Cappuccino Day, celebrate this Italian specialty that coffee lovers worship. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 7, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a sacred fruit and coziness in the kitchen. Pomegranates have been a favorite of fruit lovers for a very long time. A big favorite. In Ancient Egypt, there are wall paintings depicting the fruit and King Tut was even buried with some so that he could enjoy pomegranates in the afterworld. This delicious fruit was a part of both Greek and Roman mythology and is even mentioned in the Torah. Buddhism considers the pomegranate a sacred fruit. It appears in the paintings of Botticelli and Raphael. So what’s all the fuss about? If you’re asking, then you’ve never had a taste. November is National Pomegranate Month, so get your hands on one of these heavenly fruits and enjoy! November is National Roasting Month and this cooking method is the best way to add coziness to your kitchen when the weather outside turns chilly. Cooking things low and slow brings out flavor in both meats and vegetables. And since it all goes together in one pan, you can quickly prepare a delicious meal and let the oven do all the work. Start with a turkey or roast, add some vegetables, herbs and spices, and your meal will be fork tender in only a few hours. The best part of roasting is the way it perfumes your kitchen. The hardy meal calls your family to the table all by itself. During National Roasting Month, celebrate the easiest way to add warmth to the heart of your meal! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 6, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the origins of our favorite snack and smooth solos. Ignacio Nacho Anaya was the host of The Victory Club in the early 1940s. When the chef of the restaurant turned up missing one night, Ignacio hurried to the kitchen to whip up something for his favorite guests and nachos have been a favorite snack ever since. Though they started with humble chips, cheese and jalapenos, today’s recipes are inspired by almost every culture and cuisine. Not only can nachos feed a crowd, they can be a meal in themselves when piled high with any kind of protein and sauce. Try your favorite leftovers with melted cheese over chips and you are sure to make your culinary mark. On National Nachos Day celebrate this lightning fast meal that is always a crowd pleaser. The song “Baker Street” by Gerry Rafferty is instantly recognizable and its all thanks to the epic saxophone solo. This classic is a pretty good rock song, but could have easily been forgotten, if not for that saxophone riff. Rafael Ravenscroft, who played the solo, was paid only about 36 dollars for his work. He came up with the music on the spot and afterwards hated his performance, which he thought was off key. Clearly no one else agreed. But don’t feel too bad for Mr. Ravenscroft. He went on to perform with Pink Floyd, ABBA, and even Daft Punk. On National Saxophone Day, we celebrate the birthday of Adolfe Sax, the inventor of the instrument that gave so many pop songs their smooth, memorable vibe. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 5, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate standing out in a crowd and our National mammal. The genetic trait that causes red hair is found in only two percent of the population, so those of us with natural red have no trouble standing out. If you have both red hair and blue eyes then you are in a 1 percent category and chances are you are also left handed. And while redheads have a reputation for being feisty and stubborn we are also natural born leaders. This may have more to do with getting picked on or singled out in life and learning quickly to defend ourselves. Which seems to have worked well for Carrot Top, Carol Burnett, Ron Howard and Lucille Ball. On National Love Your Red Hair Day celebrate this unique trait and the bonus of standing out in a crowd. You may think of the majestic bison as existing only in the Great Plains. In fact they can be found in all 50 states. This is good news if you plan to see one today while celebrating National Play Outside Day, but be careful! Weighing in at nearly 2000 pounds they are the largest land mammal in North America. You should know that they can run almost 45 miles an hour and can jump nearly six vertical feet! Here in North Dakota their thick fur comes in handy for its insulation against the cold. The animal can be covered in snow that will not melt thanks to a coat that is ten times more hairy than cattle. Bison have played a central role in the livelihood of Native Americans and because of their impact on our culture and environment they are now protected as our National Mammal. On National Bison Day, we celebrate this essential part of our Nation’s history. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 4, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a prehistoric fruit and the sweet invention born of necessity. Figs are an interesting fruit. They’ve been around about 100 million years. Fig trees were on Earth at the same time as dinosaurs. Humans began cultivating them in the Middle East as the first civilizations grew across the region. When they made their way to Greece, figs became a staple of diets. This is also true for Italy, Spain, and Northern Africa. Figs trees were planted across California by the missionary Father Junipero Serra. And today the state produces 100% of the figs consumed in the United States. And if you’re not sure how to enjoy this Mesozoic fruit, there’s always the Fig Newton. During National Fig Week, take a fresh look at the fruit that outlived dinosaurs. They say that necessity is the mother of invention and in the case of M&Ms candy, this phrase is certainly true. This candy was created in 1941, and during World War II M&Ms were exclusively sold to the military. Their small size and candy coating made them the perfect candy for military rations: they were easy to transport and the candy coating prevented the chocolate from melting. When soldiers returned home, they were hooked and wanted more, so the Mars Company made them available to the general public. Soon other companies made a knockoff version and Mars had to mark its candy coated chocolates with the trademark M that we still see today. On National Candy Day, treat yourself to something to make your day a little sweeter. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 3, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate taking your turn in the kitchen and truly great sandwiches. It’s not often that National Day celebrations go so perfectly together but today just happens to be one of them. It’s National Men Make Dinner Day and one of my favorites, National Sandwich Day. Guys, you seriously lucked out with this one, because making a delicious sandwich could not be easier. It is rumored that John Montagu, the 4th Earl of Sandwich came up with the meal as a way to keep his game of cards going without missing a beat. If you want to impress your family, make your creation a main event with something from the grill, artisanal bread and a delicious stack of fixings. Think Dagwood Bumstead style from the 1930s cartoon Blonde. And yes, there are restaurants that serve a Dagwood sandwich in honor of his mile high, kitchen sink approach. Go ahead guys give me your go to recipe for impressive sandwiches. On National Sandwich Day, celebrate the perfect answer to the age old question, what’s for dinner? I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 2, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate getting a grip and a spicy history. Okay, I’ll admit it: “I’m Stressed!” So I’m not sure why I have to celebrate National Stress Awareness Day? Why can’t this day fall on National Chocolate Day? I’m sure we’re all aware that stress is the number one indicator of how long or how short your life will be. Today it’s time to take a serious look at what’s been eating you. Like seriously! Take a walk, have a bath, call a friend, get a massage or simply take a breath. It’s that important to get a game plan for how you will outwit stress in your life. What’s your favorite way to destress Marlo? While a lot of foods fall in and out of favor, it appears that deviled eggs have a long history of success. Even the Ancient Romans liked boiled eggs with spicy sauce as the opening act of their meal. And while 13th century Spaniards began smashing the yolks as a filling, the term deviling didn’t appear until the 18th century. This is when a little heat became associated with the devil. Today, no potluck or gathering would be complete without deviled eggs. New twists on this classic hor d’oeuvre can be made by adding smoked paprika or even avocado and lime to the filling. On National Deviled Egg Day, don’t be afraid to celebrate your spicy side with a devil may care level of heat. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 1, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate home cooked meals for your pet and picking your poison. You love your pet and wanna do what’s best for them. So why not cook them a healthy meal? Whether you have a dog, cat, bird, lizard or goat try making them something special in your own kitchen. Okay, granted a goat will eat anything but if you’re up for a culinary adventure here are a few ingredients to avoid: chocolate, onions, avocados, garlic, salt, yeast dough, tomato leaves and stems, and milk-based foods. That’s a short list of course and you’ll wanna do some research. On National Cook For Your Pets Day, you may discover a whole new way to pamper those family members we love to spoil. Agatha Christie is the queen of the Whodunit. Of the nearly 80 murder mysteries she wrote, about half of them involve death by poisoning. Christie had an extensive knowledge of drugs and poisons because of her time spent working in a hospital pharmacy during World War I. She watched carefully as pharmacists and nurses administered medicine to patients, and she learned what dosages were safe, along with what could kill someone. Luckily for the world, Agatha used her knowledge for good and wrote some of the most successful novels of all time. In fact, she has only been outsold by the Bible and Shakespeare’s works. On National Authors’ Day, celebrate your favorite storyteller by cracking open a good page turner. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 31, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate magical history and all things spooky. During the Golden Age of Magic, there was only one magician more famous than Harry Houdini. Adelaide Herrmann. Her husband had a very popular magic show and when he died in 1896, she kept it going. Adelaide became wildly successful in her own right, performing for the next 25 years. Her signature trick was the bullet catch, in which someone would fire a gun at her and she would appear to catch it with her hands…or teeth. One time she even faced down a firing squad and caught all the slugs coming her way—or so the illusion would have everyone believe. On National Magic Day, celebrate the sleights-of-hand that still keep us guessing. Halloween dates back thousands of years to ancient Ireland, when folks celebrated the end of the Summer harvest. They believed that on this night, the gates between the worlds of the living and the dead would open. In order to scare off any fairies or evil spirits, people dressed in costumes. Centuries later, the custom of going door to door began, but no one shouted trick or treat. Instead people sang hymns on behalf of the dead for which they were given soul cakes. They carried hollowed out turnips with candles inside to represent the souls of the dead. Now that sounds spooky! Get your masks on, boys and ghouls, today is Halloween, the spookiest day of the year. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 30, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate culinary adventures and a season of sweets. No matter how crazy or inventive recipes from today’s top chefs seem to be, they’d have a hard time rivaling anything in the Libro de arte coquinaria. This 15th-Century cookbook was compiled by the chef of an Italian cardinal and is housed in the Library of Congress. So what makes this particular book so special? Well, for starters, it is the first known cookbook to list both ingredients and instructions. And it’s also full of wild recipes like “How to Dress a Peacock With All Its Feathers, So That When Cooked, It Appears to Be Alive and Spews Fire From Its Beak.” That’s literally the title of the recipe. Try to top that, Food Network. During National Cookbook Month, take a walk on the wild side and try a new adventure. Candy corn was invented in the 1800s and originally called Chicken Corn. At the time, most Americans were farmers and candy shaped like vegetables were all the rage. During World War II, sugar had to be rationed, so the makers of candy corn cut back production and limited sales to the Fall. Trick or treating became popular around the same time, so candy corn became synonymous with Halloween. These days you can find all kinds of varieties including pumpkin spice and caramel apple. If you’re a fan then indulge your sweet tooth on National Candy Corn Day. And if not celebrate the fact that it’s only around a short while. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 29, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the breakfast of champion thinkers and a good rap for felines. You may not think of oatmeal as the breakfast of champions, but here’s what one inventor had to say about it, “There is no doubt that some plant food, such as oatmeal, is more economical than meat, and superior to it in regard to both mechanical and mental performance…it produces an amount of good difficult to estimate.” Nikola Tesla. On National Oatmeal Day, all I have to say to that is “I’ll have what he’s having.” Do you guys eat oatmeal? A lot of attention is paid to the hard working dog and by comparison cats seem a lot lazier. But thousands of years ago, cats emerged from the wild to play a useful role as mice catchers. This led to increased crop yields and slowed down the spread of diseases. It’s no wonder that cats were revered by the ancient Egyptians and even mummified cats to do their job in the afterlife. When the Egyptian dynasty collapsed, cats found an even better job in the laps of the rich in Far Eastern India and Japan. There, Siamese and Burmese cats were seen as a luxury and not a mere farm hand. On National Cat Day we celebrate their place in our hearts as expert nappers and internet influencers. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 28, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a Freaky Friday and a chocolate lover’s dream. In 1815, a massive volcanic eruption spread ash around the entire globe. The following year was dubbed The Year Without a Summer. The skies were dreary and dark, and temperatures were far below normal. In the midst of this, a legendary novel was born. Lord Byron invited Mary Shelley and her fiance to his home in Switzerland, where the friends huddled around a fireplace and read from a book of scary stories. In this eerie setting, Byron came up with the idea that each guest should write their own ghost story to share with the group at the end of their stay. And that is how Mary’s Frankenstein was born. On National Frankenstein Friday host your own eerie happy hour or read the original classic, if you dare! People have been cultivating cacao trees for at least three thousand years, with the earliest use of the seeds dating back to 1100 BCE. These beans are intensely bitter and must be fermented to develop their flavor. Next they are dried, cleaned and roasted to produce cacao nibs which are ground into a paste. But you probably won’t enjoy the taste at this point until the mass is liquified and mixed with other things. From here chocolate takes on many forms from white to dark depending on the amount of cocoa solids and other ingredients. No matter which kind you love best, indulge your sweet side on National Chocolate Day. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 27, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate breaking an unlucky streak and a beverage that is best served cold. It appears that the myth surrounding black cats as bad luck is relatively new. This bad wrap is associated with the Puritanical view of witches and their supernatural pets. Starting in the 12th century, folks believed that a witch could transform into a black cat nine times. This is probably where their reputation for having multiple lives began too. But well before that, the ebony coated feline was a sign of good luck. From Ancient Egypt to Old England, Scotland and Japan, black cats were thought of as a symbol of good fortune. They were even given as a wedding present for hundreds of years. On National Black Cat Day, break with superstition and find yourself some good feline fortune. America’s love affair with beer started even before the United States was a country. In 1612, Dutch traders Adrian Block and Hans Christiansen established a brewery on what would become Manhattan Island. At the time, the area was called New Amsterdam and was a fur trading outpost. The winter that year was especially cold and icy, which made the workers very grumpy. To boost morale amongst their men, Block and his partner started brewing beer, which worked like a charm. While beer is consumed all over the world, here in the States we love it served icy cold. On National American Beer Day celebrate the season of chill by cracking open a cold one. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 26, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate our favorite Fall flavor and the workhorse of the Old West. There's no doubt that pumpkins are one of our favorite symbols of Fall. With pumpkin spice lattes brewing, this cheerful ingredient finds its way into everything from candles to pet shampoo. The squash is native to North America with the oldest pumpkin seeds dating back to 7000 BCE in Mexico. The word originates from the Greek pepon, which means large melon. And our fascination for these large melons grows even bigger when they reach record sizes. A man from Anoka, MN just broke the World Record with his 2,560 pound pumpkin. On National Pumpkin Day celebrate your favorite Fall symbol from the lowly latte to the Great Pumpkin himself. One of the great unsung heroes of the Old West was the mule. These animals are a hybrid of a female horse and a male donkey, and they inherited the best traits from each of their parents. Mules are athletic and intelligent. They also have greater range of vision, are more sure footed and even tempered than either the horse or donkey. All of these traits added up to one perfect animal for helping settlers expand across America. Mules could carry heavy loads, walk longer distances, and navigate rugged terrain and they were the perfect pack animal and companion for cowboys. On National Mule Day, tip your hat to the animal that helped tame the West. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 25, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate creepy dolls and greasy spoons. For Chucky fans, it’s time to get your popcorn, your beverage of choice and hit play! I’m talking of course about Chucky, the Notorious Killer Doll movies. Some people dress up as Chucky and collect his merchandise, while others read up on the behind the scene facts on the many Chucky fan pages. The creepy horror flick staple of the 1980s has a full name - Charles Lee Ray, which is a mash up of three real life and notorious killers. Can you guess who they are? On Chucky, The Notorious Killer Doll Day, test your movie trivia knowledge or stay sane like the rest of us and watch a good comedy. The name may not sound very nice, but there’s something great about a greasy spoon. I don’t mean a utensil you need to wash, I’m talking about a good old fashioned diner. Since the 1920s, diners have been an American favorite, and there’s no better place to get a quick meal, especially late at night. The best thing on the menu is probably fried, so just for today, go ahead and gobble down a plate of fries, onion rings, or fried chicken. Even the healthiest person has a soft spot for some greasy food now and again. On National Greasy Foods Day, celebrate this excuse for sidling up to the counter at your favorite local diner and taking the plunge. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 24, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the first name in lunch meat and a secret super power. Some foods owe their success to immigration. They leave behind the identity of the city or place they came from to take on a new role here in America. One of these is bologna. Beginning its life as mortadella, the beloved sausage meat came from the city of Bologna in Italy, where it was even protected in 1661 by the papacy. They created an official definition of the recipe to ensure it would be made with the right amount of lean pork, speckled with lumps of lard. Here in the United States bologna gained popularity as a cheaper food that took off during the Great Depression with the war era practice of rationing. But perhaps its greatest break came from a jingle in the 1970s. On National Bologna Day we celebrate a sandwich favorite that slipped its more serious past. Marlo: That was the BEST national day we have ever done on the show. Anna: Are you serious? Marlo: No. I’m not. Anna: Well, what was I supposed to read? Marlo: You read the right thing. Bologna is amazing. It’s my favorite food. Anna: Really? I would have never guessed that about you. Marlo: Anna. None of that is true. I’m being completely sarcastic. It’s National Sarcastic Awareness Month. So are you aware now? Anna: No. Can you explain it again? I missed that. Marlo: Okay. So sarcasm is… Anna: I’m not serious, Marlo. You can stop talking now. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 23, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate magical mother-in-laws and the official dessert of Massachusetts. We’re getting close to Halloween and if you think celebrating National Mother-In-Law Day is more than a little scary, here's something to lighten your spirits. The most magical, fictional mother-in-law award goes to … Agnes Moorhead as Endora on Bewitched. Not only did she possess witchy powers, she knew just how to wilt her son-in-law, Darren by simply refusing to call him by his real name. Durwood, Darwin, Dum Dum, What’s His Name? If you can relate then celebrate this day with caution. On the other hand if you have a gem of a Mother-In-Law you’ll probably want to thank your lucky stars. When it comes to dessert, Boston Cream Pie has a confusing name. With its delicious layers of sponge cake, pastry cream and a shiny coat of chocolate, one has to wonder why it is called a pie? At the time the dessert was created, cakes and pies were baked in the same pans. Thus, their names became interchangeable. The dessert was created by a French pastry chef at the Parker House Hotel in Boston in the late 1800s, but a newly available ingredient put this dessert on the map: baking chocolate. The glistening layers of melted chocolate probably influenced the decision to make it the official dessert of Massachusetts in 1996. On National Boston Cream Pie Day, celebrate the irresistible dessert with a confusing name. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 22, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a dash of color and rewarding our true blue friends. The human eye can see nearly 7,000,000 different shades of color. It’s one of the first things we notice when we process visual information. We tend to think of color as an objective perception, but in fact it can vary based on gender, geographic location and even the language we speak. It might be difficult to pinpoint exactly why we view color so differently, but one thing is certain: it comes down to our photoreceptors. These are located in the retina of our eye and the number of receptors can vary widely from person to person. That’s why my blue sky is not yours Marlo! On National Color Day, don’t be afraid to show your true colors. You may just change the world around you. It doesn’t take much to please our pups; an extra long walk or a special treat would do. What you may not realize is that what dogs crave most is quality time with you. Pet stores stock everything you need to pamper your pooch at just about every price point. And if you haven’t had a dog in a while, there are over 3 million shelter dogs seeking a forever home. This could be the day that you make a dog’s biggest dream come true. On National Make a Dog’s Day go the extra mile for the pets that have been by your side come rain or shine. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 21, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate an early Thanksgiving treat and our scaly neighbors. If you’re already on pumpkin spice overload you may want to save yourself for the ultimate flavor combination of the season: pumpkin cheesecake. This dessert takes the cake and can even upset all the traditional Thanksgiving standbys. What a perfect day to master your own recipe ahead of the holiday rush. By November you’ll be a cheesecake expert. The smooth combination of rich cream cheese and spiced pumpkin, topped with whipped cream, beats other pies hands down. On National Pumpkin Cheesecake Day, celebrate the creamy dessert that has us asking, Why wait to be grateful? The Mary River Turtle of Queensland, Australia definitely stands out in a crowd. First of all, it has feelers growing out of its chin. It’s also known as the Punk Rock Turtle. That’s because of the bright green moss that grows on the turtle’s head in the shape of a mohawk. Seriously. It makes them look like a Muppet. And then there’s the fact that the Mary River Turtle breathes out of its…well, you can Google that for yourself. In fact, there are over 10,000 species of reptiles to learn about, including lizards, snakes and turtles. On National Reptile Awareness Day, celebrate our scaly neighbors by discovering their weird and wacky facts online or at the zoo. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 20, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate building up our youth and delicious mashups. Stevland Morris was born prematurely on May 13, 1950, and went blind shortly after. Despite his disability, he had a passion for music. By the age of 10, Stevland had taught himself how to play piano, harmonica, drums and organ. He played during church services and his talent so impressed a fellow parishioner that the man introduced Stevland to a friend named Berry Gordy—the president of Motown records. Gordy took the boy under his wing and helped turn him into the star we know today as… Stevie Wonder. Not every kid will grow up to be famous, but they’ve got a better chance at success if you inspire them to be themselves. On National Youth Confidence Day, celebrate the kid in all of us that just needs a little encouragement. One of the South’s most famous food creations is chicken and waffles. But this delicious combination of flavors was actually born in the Harlem neighborhood of New York City. During the 1940s, the Wells Supper Club was a popular late night spot that attracted Jazz musicians after their gigs. They would come in hungry, but found that they had arrived too late for dinner, but too early for breakfast. In order to accommodate the musicians, the restaurant came up with the genius idea of serving a bit of both meals. Hence, fried chicken for dinner and waffles for breakfast. On National Chicken and Waffles Day, we celebrate this delicious combo and thank the cook who came up with the crazy idea in the first place. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 19, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a flavorful soup and smooth medicine. The rich creamy soup known as seafood bisque has been around for centuries. It most likely originated in France in the Bay of Biscay where seafood was plentiful. But that’s not exactly how bisque got its name. For that we take a clue from how it's cooked. First the seafood shells are sauteed with onions, celery and carrots then simmered in wine or broth with aromatic herbs. This makes it “bis” “cuit” or twice cooked and by the time the seafood and cream are added an unparalleled flavor has developed. On National Seafood Bisque Day make your mouth happy with this classic seafood concoction. The British Empire spanned the globe in the mid 1800s and one of its most valuable colonies was India. Though England was able to conquer much of the world with its powerful army and navy, one thing its military couldn’t fight was malaria. This disease had long been eradicated in Europe, but in India’s tropical climate, malaria was still a problem. The locals used quinine powder to prevent the disease, but the British troops stationed here did not have a taste for the bitter medicine. That is until someone mixed it with soda water and sugar creating what is now known as “tonic water.” When they added gin the famous cocktail was born. On International Gin And Tonic Day, enjoy a classic drink that is as smooth as British ingenuity. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 18, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a fashion kick and having your cake and eating it too. Although this wardrobe essential is a year-round staple, Fall is officially the season for leggings. Historically, they added a necessary layer of warmth. In the 1950’s and ‘60s they were part of our standard workout wear. Today leggings are a feat of modern engineering thanks to breathable materials, textures and designs. With so many styles from sporty to dressy, you can really kick up your style on International Legging Day. For most people chocolate symbolizes romance, for Kyra Bussanich it means war! Cupcake Wars to be exact. This four time champion of the Food Network’s popular tv show is serious about baking and winning. After a diagnosis with Crohn’s disease, Kyra decided to try a gluten free lifestyle. She attended Le Cordon Bleu patisserie program and married her love for baking with French techniques. Her long battle with food allergies ended in triumph as she became the first gluten free baker to win the Cupcake Wars heated challenge. Today her shop in Lake Oswego boasts a few of the winning flavors, such as Chocolate Caramel Ecstasy. If you can’t make it all the way to Oregon, you might take up the challenge in your own kitchen. On National Chocolate Cupcake Day, celebrate like Kyra by having your cake and eating it too. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 17, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate second chances and perfect pairs. A mulligan is a do over or a chance to hit the reset button. In golf it’s a term that means taking a second shot if things don’t go according to plan. No one is exactly sure which Mulligan gave us this term whether it was David Mulligan from Canada, John “Buddy” Mulligan from New Jersey or Thomas Mulligan from Ireland. All three were passionate about the game of golf and all three knew the value of blowing off a bad shot. It’s never too late to reframe your thinking with a fresh perspective or a brand new start, on or off the golf course. On National Mulligan Day, give yourself a break and tee up a whole new outlook. Italians had been enjoying their pasta for centuries before someone came up with the idea for a dried version of the food. This simple innovation allowed the pasta to keep longer and it soon made its way around the world on Italian ships. In the 1500s, explorers brought back tomatoes from the Americas, and you would think that’s where the pairing of red sauce and pasta got its start. But people thought tomatoes were poisonous, and it was nearly 200 years before someone incorporated them into Italian cuisine. Since then, pasta and tomato sauce have been forever linked. On National Pasta Day celebrate with your favorite pairing of pasta and sauce. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 16, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate healthy competition and a nerd with a cause. Organized sports were introduced to the world at the first Olympic Games in Ancient Greece. The first events were based on training for war and hunting—races, wrestling, jumping, and javelin throwing. This also became a way for people to hash out differences without hurting one another with weapons. Sports are cathartic and bring people together. Athletes scream and yell and try to beat their opponents, but when the game is over, they congratulate one another with a hand shake. On National Sports Day, celebrate the spirit of friendly competition! Noah Webster is best known for publishing A Compendious Dictionary of the English Language in 1806. He believed that the English spelling rules were unnecessarily complicated, and this led him to compile the American English ones. Today we take this for granted today until we run across words such as color with an extra u or center with an re ending. This task took 27 years to complete and required Webster to learn twenty six languages, including Old English, German, Greek, Latin, Italian, Spanish, French, Hebrew, Arabic, and Sanskrit. He also added American words such as skunk and squash that did not appear in British dictionaries. On National Dictionary Day we celebrate the spirit of a rebel with a wordy cause. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 15, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate love at first sight and bringing back that squeaky feeling. The television show I Love Lucy first aired on October 15, 1951 and for audiences it was love at first sight. That’s because the show featuring Lucille Ball, Dezi Arnaz, Vivian Vance, and William Frawley was a program of firsts, including the first show to be performed before a live studio audience. In four of its six seasons, I Love Lucy was the most-watched television show in the United States and to this day it still stands on TIME Magazine’s list of top 100 shows. On National I Love Lucy Day, catch up on your favorite episodes and fall in love all over again. In the mid 1800s settlers from all over Europe brought their cheese making secrets to Wisconsin. By 1922 there were more than 2,800 factories in the rich farmland of this state. Today Wisconsin produces over 2 billion pounds of cheese each year. This process starts with separating the curd from the whey, but the curds that eventually become cheddar are the gold standard for snacking. These ones contain the long proteins that squeak against our teeth. If your curds have lost that squeaky feeling, a few seconds in the microwave can bring it back. On National Cheese Curd Day fry up a batch of the freshest you can find and enjoy a true American favorite. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 14, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate favorite desserts and a delicious superfood. I don’t know about you guys, but I’m a big fan of eating dessert first! It’s kind of lifestyle choice, but it reminds me to celebrate the food that feeds my inner child. I’m not saying I do this every day but there are certain desserts that deserve top billing. Do you guys have a favorite dessert? On National Dessert Day, celebrate your own sweet tooth by having dessert first. October is Spinach Lovers Month and this makes some of us think of Popeye the sailor man. When he ate a can of spinach, he gained super strength because of all the vitamins in it. Popeye cartoons made the vegetable so popular in the 1930s that sales shot up 33%. But here’s the interesting part: The reason everyone thought spinach was such a superfood was because of a misplaced decimal. A scientific study told everyone that there were 35 milligrams of iron per serving, but it’s actually only 3.5. That doesn’t mean spinach isn’t good for you, but it does mean you’re not going to develop super strength just because you eat some. During Spinach Lovers Month grab some of this leafy green superfood just for the love of its taste! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 13, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate getting pumped up and our Nation’s fighting spirit. Today’s celebration is about pumping you up! I’m not talking about your muscles, girly man, I’m talking about that under used super organ between your ears. It’s estimated that we only use a small fraction of the true potential of our brains and if you need more motivation think about this. Everything you see in the world around you was created in someone’s head. That means the 3 pounds of gray matter you now own was responsible for taking us out of the stone age into the age of computers and rockets. So how much heavy lifting are you doing these days? On National Train Your Brain Day get cracking! Even if it's only lifting a pencil to your favorite puzzle. On this day in 1775, the Second Continental Congress formally established what would become the United States Navy. The most famous American Captain from this era was John Paul Jones. In 1779, he engaged the British 44 gun Royal Navy frigate, Serapis. With his ship burning and sinking, Jones refused to surrender and he uttered the now famous words, “I have not yet begun to fight.” And it turns out he was right! Three hours after making this declaration, the British ship surrendered to him and Jones took command. On our Navy’s Birthday, we celebrate the men and women who carry on the fighting spirit of Captain Jones. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 12, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate those who work the land and a Southern melting pot. Farmer’s Day has been celebrated since the mid 1800s and it’s easy to see why. These folks contribute to much more than just the food on our table. Their hard work affects everything from manufacturing to transportation, producing a whole host of products from leather goods to textiles and even the ethanol in our gas tanks. These days it’s more important than ever to support your local farmers. Even city slickers can do their part by purchasing from farmer’s markets and visiting restaurants that take pride in their farm to table menus. On National Farmer’s Day, celebrate the way of life that sustains us all. When we think of gumbo, the hearty stew of seasoned vegetables and seafood or meat, we immediately think of Southern cooking. For this we can thank its older West African roots that blended with Native American and European traditions to create a culinary classic. Traditional recipes call for okra, a vegetable that thickens things nicely, but you may have also heard of gumbo filé. This Choctaw spice made from dried sassafras root, also thickens the stew and was most likely used when okra was out of season. And if all else fails you can leave the cooking to an expert! On National Gumbo Day, celebrate this stew that is a true melting pot of flavors. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 11, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate crafty critters and an uncommon hero. In 1979, one of America’s smallest and weirdest celebrities made her debut, Twiggy the Waterskiing Squirrel. Chuck and Lou Ann Best rescued a baby squirrel that had fallen out of its nest. As a joke, Chuck built her a pair of Styrofoam skis and attached them to his daughter’s remote controlled boat. But Twiggy surprised everyone by taking to this sport so quickly. Word got out and soon Twiggy was making appearances on news shows around the country. For nearly 40 years, this tiny performer and her offspring have entertained audiences across the country. During Squirrel Awareness Month, celebrate these crafty little critters by giving them the right of way on the road and on the water. Many brave Americans fought in the Revolutionary War, but the colonists did not fight alone. Other European nations, who were not fond of the British, were willing to lend a helping hand. One of the most prominent was Polish General Casimir Pulaski. After being exiled from his homeland, where he fought against the Russian army, Pulaski made his way to Paris. Here Benjamin Franklin recruited him for the war against Great Britain. He became one of General Washington’s most valuable field commanders and went on to save hundreds of troops before he was fatally wounded in Savannah, Georgia. On General Pulaski Memorial Day, we celebrate the hero who stepped up for a country that wasn’t even his own. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 10, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a mysterious cake and a tempting fruit. The origins of angel food cake carries an air of mystery. The recipe came from India, but was given to an American family in 1883 by a friend. The family owned a boarding house along the Hudson River and the owner was a skilled baker who took her friend’s recipe to a whole new height. It is said that she baked one cake at a time behind closed doors to protect the secret recipe. The lighter than air results were a great success, and angel food cake became a favorite of First Lady, Lucy Webb Hayes. Today, this cake can be found almost anywhere. On National Angel Food Cake Day, celebrate the lighter than air concoction that doesn’t require a wing and a prayer. For fans of apples, this is the best time of the year. Once Autumn comes around, it’s apple picking season. On average, each American will consume about 16 pounds of apples every year, so it’s good that the trees produce as much of the delicious fruit as they do—about 840 pounds every season. That means plenty of Red Delicious, McIntosh, and Fujis for everyone. There are dozens of varieties. Actually, there are nearly 2,500 types of apples but only about 100 of them are sold commercially. October is National Apple Month, a time to celebrate this tempting fruit and all the goodies made from it. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 9, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate bold flavors and brave explorers. Hey Marlo, what do you think of when I say “Moldy Cheese?” John? Ok, so… In the case of moldy cheese beauty is definitely in the eye of the beholder. If those deep blue veins of penicillium sound more like medicine than mouth watering cheese you are not alone. Not everyone appreciates the nutty, saltiness of a well aged cheese. It’s believed that the first blue cheese known as Gorgonzola was discovered by accident in 879 AD. But who was the brave soul that saw mold on cheese and decided to try it anyway? This is proof that whatever doesn’t kill you could be delicious. On National Moldy Cheese Day savor the boldness of a Roquefort, Stilton or Brie. We all know that America was discovered in 1492, right? Not true. The Viking Leif Erikson sailed across the Atlantic and found a new continent that he named Vinland. The settlement was in today’s Newfoundland. Unlike Columbus, he and his men only stayed for a few years then moved back to Europe. For centuries, no one knew that this had even happened until archaeologists uncovered an abandoned Norse village in Canada. So it appears that it was the Vikings who were actually the first to plant their flag in North America. On National Leif Erikson Day, we celebrate this explorer who paved the way to the new world. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 8, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a long standing game and a fluffy bite of history. In 1990, a group of friends, who called themselves the Tag Brothers started a game of tag. This 30 plus years game even inspired a movie! The real life gang kept it up with a lot of work, creativity, and a little bit of craziness. In high school, they’d run up and tag someone. But as adults, they’ve upped the ante. One guy broke into a friend’s house to tag him. Another time, one of the Tag Brothers flew cross-country and hid in the trunk of his friend’s car for hours—before popping out and tagging him. And the craziest “tag” was at a funeral for someone’s father. On American Touch Tag Day celebrate the simple game that can really go the distance. The story of the Fluffernutter sandwich began with the great, great, great grandchildren of Paul Revere: Emma and Armory Curtis. In the early 1900s, Armory cooked up a sticky spread that he called Snowflake Marshmallow Creme. Other companies made similar products, but Emma created a recipe for a peanut butter and marshmallow creme sandwich that was published in the newspaper. During World War I, while meat was being rationed, the sandwich was used as a source of protein. That’s when it became known as the Liberty Sandwich. On National Fluffernutter Day, celebrate with a bite of history that is more than just a little fluff. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 7, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a happy accident and non-verbal communication. Many of us can’t get going in the morning without a caffeine fix. Luckily for coffee drinkers, Dimitris Vakondios was no exception. Dimitris was a Nestle employee in Greece who really needed his morning buzz. One fateful day he discovered there was no hot water in the office, but Dimitris would not be deterred. He mixed instant coffee with cold water and ice, then shook it up and created a new twist on an old favorite. Today this chilled coffee drink called the Frappe is familiar to anyone who loves their java cold, and people mix things up with a variety of flavors. On National Frappe Day, chill out with your favorite version of this happy accident. From eye movement, hand gestures to crossing legs, everything communicates to the people around us. While these nonverbals can help us in everyday life, there are people who make a career out of reading body language. Espionage relies heavily on observing unconscious ticks as experts look for things as simple as scrunching one's nose or licking one's lips, which are tells that can give you away. One spy was caught simply because of the way he held a bouquet of flowers! You may not need to save the world, but you can become more skilled at what someone is thinking or feeling by the way they carry themselves on National Body Language Day. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 6, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate going batty and reaching great heights. In the middle of Alice’s trip through Wonderland, she stopped for a tea party that was hosted by the Hatter. Yes, that’s right, the character’s name isn’t the Mad Hatter, though that’s how we all know him. The phrase “mad as a hatter” was popular at the time that Lewis Carrol wrote his book, and since the character was a bit crazy, the name stuck. As for the phrase itself, hat makers in the 1800s used mercury to manufacture felt hats. Prolonged exposure to this chemical led to mercury poisoning, which caused irritability, memory loss and slurred speech. Sounds like the fictional host of the tea party in Wonderland! On National Mad Hatter Day, celebrate with a spot of tea and your silliest hat. No matter how amazing their inherent skills, every athlete needs someone to help them achieve greater success. This is where a great coach can make all the difference. Michael Jordan was already one of the NBA’s most dynamic players before Phil Jackson became coach of the Chicago Bulls. Jordan was not initially a fan of his new coach, who wanted the team to spread the ball around—rather than make Jordan the focus of the game plan. But Jordan played along. And Jackson’s leadership took the team to six championships over the span of eight seasons, including 2 three-peats. On National Coaches Day, celebrate the people who help us elevate our game to a whole new level. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 5, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate getting funky and paying things forward. As a child growing up in Georgia, James Brown was so poor that his clothes were little more than rags, for which he was sometimes sent home from school. So when he became a professional musician, he dressed in extravagant outfits, becoming known for his capes, rhinestone covered jumpsuits and copious amounts of jewelry. Brown’s talent earned him the name “The Hardest Working Man in Show Business.” He was a major player in the history of Funk music, setting the standard for musicians like Earth, Wind, and Fire, Parliament Funkadelic, and even Prince. On National Get Funky Day you don’t need to be the Godfather of Soul to get your groove on. You may not be aware of how your choices add up, but doing something nice can have a far reaching ripple effect. For inspiration, consider the story of a young man from South Carolina with big dreams and humble beginnings. Though he never aspired to be a superhero, young Chadwick Boseman had a talent for acting. When that talent led him to a chance at attending Oxford University, the only obstacle was the immense tuition. Enter Denzel Washington. Though the two had never met, the benefactor paid for Chad’s tuition and his acting career began. That career ended much too soon, but left a legacy of outstanding performances. On National Do Something Nice Day celebrate the ripple effect that even a small act of kindness can create. ’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 4, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate an explosive food and a smooth drink. One of America’s most popular foods got its start in the silver mines of Mexico. Here in the 1700s, miners would roll gunpowder in pieces of paper and insert them into the rocks, as an alternative to dynamite. They called the small charges “tacos.” These same workers lunched on a meal of meat and cheese wrapped in tortillas that looked like the explosive charges. The taco came to the United States with the Mexican immigrants, who worked in mines or on railroads. But their popularity exploded when Robert L. Gomez established the National Taco Council in 1964. On National Taco Day, celebrate your favorite version with any combination of explosive flavor. During the golden age of Hollywood, vodka was popularized by celebrities, who drank cocktails at their swanky parties. However, America’s infatuation with Russian alcohol came under fire during the early years of the Cold War. In the 1950s, when countries like the US and England were staunchly anti-Russia, vodka sales dropped. But vodka’s image got some help from an unlikely source—super spy James Bond. When 007 made vodka martinis his signature cocktail, the public viewed the liquor in a different light. No longer was it simply Russian. It was now worldly and sophisticated. On National Vodka Day, celebrate the essence of smooth. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 3, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate making an entrance and embracing our inner geek. Joseph Merlin was a famous inventor who had a flair for the dramatic. When he came up with the idea for roller skates, Merlin decided to make a splash, and so he debuted his new skates at a high-society party. He rolled in dressed in full costume, playing a violin. As the hundreds of party-goers watched in amazement, Merlin zipped around the ballroom, showing off the roller skates. Unfortunately, this early design did not have brakes and he spun out of control and smashed into a mirror, breaking the violin and injuring himself. During National Roller Skating Month, play it safe at a roller rink and if you’re trying new tricks, please wear a helmet! National Techies Day encourages students of all ages to consider a career in technology. You don’t have to be a math or science wizard to take advantage of this trend. People often assume that computers and artificial intelligence are beating people out of jobs. The truth is that more people now work in the software and services industry than they did in coal mining at its peak. We now know that for every high-tech job, four more jobs are created. No matter what drives you, it's a good time to invest in learning something new about the ways that technology is affecting your area of expertise. On National Techies Day boost your IQ for tech and don't be afraid to embrace your inner geek. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 2, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a super smart business and cars with personality. Anna: Hey Marlo. What’s that all over your pants? Marlo: It’s my Halloween costume. Do you like it? Anna: Are you a donut with sprinkles? Wait, wait, that’s candy! Marlo: You’re getting warmer… Anna: Those are rolls of Smarties candy… Marlo: Warmer… Anna: You’re a Smarty Pants! Marlo: Ding, ding, ding! Anna: Well, I already knew that. Did you know that the founder of Smarties Candy, Edward Dee was a graduate of Cambridge University in England? Marlo: Yes. Did you know he named the candy Smarties to inspire people to continue their education? Anna: Yes! Did you know that his company started in 1949 is now run by his three granddaughters: Sarah, Jessica and Liz Dee? Now that’s super smart! Marlo: Did you know that we celebrate National Smarties Day on October 2nd because today is Eddie Dee’s birthday? Anna: I didn’t know that but I feel like we show team up for a trivia contest. If you’ve ever named your car then you are not alone. Movies and TV shows give top billing to everything from Herbie the Love Bug to Kit from Knight Rider and Smokey in Smokey and the Bandit. But perhaps the most loved car in today’s world is Lightning McQueen from the movie Cars. This animated feature film banks on our natural affinity to consider our car as something more human than machine. Maybe it’s been awhile since you played with matchbox cars or thought of your set of wheels as a trusty companion. But chances are good that giving your car a name will inspire you to give it some extra TLC. On National Name Your Car Day celebrate man’s other best friend and keep your engine purring. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 1, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate letting our hair down and showing off our spots. What do Audrey Hepburn, The Beatles, and Jennifer Aniston have in common? Every one of them had a major impact on pop culture. And not just for their performances, but for their hairstyles. Hepburn’s starring role in Breakfast at Tiffany’s popularized the beehive. The Beatles inspired a generation of kids to grow out their hair. And the haircut that Jennifer Aniston wore on Friends—the Rachel—was one of the hottest trends of the 1990s. It makes sense that people want to emulate what they think looks good. After all, our hair is one of the first things that people notice about us. On National Hair Day, you don’t need to be a fashion icon to make a statement. The dalmatian dog has a long history of being known as a fire pup. This goes back to the early 1700s when fire trucks were actually horse drawn carriages. Dalmations have a natural affinity with horses and were trained to run ahead of the rig to keep the roads clear. Once they arrived, fire pups both calmed the horses and watched over the valuable carriage while firefighters did their job. Dalmations were excellent companions back at the station, where they bunked with the horses and earned their keep catching mice. This breed is known for their grace under pressure and one other feature that made them easy to “spot.” Today they mostly tag along as mascots for those teaching fire safety. On National Fire Pup Day celebrate the canine wonder that symbolizes the bravery of those who do this difficult job. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 30th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate fresh breath and a Fall tradition. While chewing gum may seem like a modern invention, it’s actually been around for 9,000 years. The ancient Aztecs chewed something called chicle, although they had to follow certain rules of etiquette. Children and unmarried women could chew it in public, but everyone else had to chew it at home. Chicle became the main ingredient in chewing gum in the mid 1800s, but it wasn’t until the early 1900s that gum became popular. That’s when William Wrigley, Jr. launched an all out campaign, mailing free samples of his gum to every person in the phonebook. Apparently, this move paid off big! On National Chewing Gum Day, celebrate the freedom to chew wherever you please, though keeping it quiet is still appreciated. Wassail is an old Norse expression that literally means “be you healthy” Wassailing was an old English drinking ritual of warming cider with spices and other ingredients to ensure a good harvest of cider apples for the following year. Now that’s thinking ahead. In ancient Roman times they mulled wine in the same way. Now that sounds like a good excuse for a drinking game. There are lots of recipes for hot mulled cider that include orange peel, cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves. Now that sounds like a recipe to chase away the cold. On National Hot Mulled Cider Day, brew up your own favorite recipe and drink to your health: “Wassail!” I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 29th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate Veterans of Foreign Wars and an iconic buzz. The VFW was founded in 1914 by veterans of the Spanish American War and soldiers who had served in the Philippines. The group was created to secure benefits and medical treatments for the sick and wounded veterans. The VFW also enabled veterans to help each other transition from the battlefield to normal life. The organization’s motto is “No one does more for Veterans,” and it’s easy to see why. No one understands a soldier better than someone who has served in the military. The individual posts also play a big role in their communities through fundraising and community service. On National VFW Day find out more about the organization that honors the fallen by helping the living. When it comes to brand ambassadors, there are few more iconic than Juan Valdez. This fictional coffee farmer has been the face of the Coffee Growers of Colombia for over 6 decades. And for nearly 40 of those years, Carlos Sanchez portrayed the iconic spokesperson. The Colombian actor had actually been a coffee farmer in his youth, so he fit the role perfectly. With his wide brimmed hat and big smile, Juan Valdez became the center of a worldwide ad campaign that made the character nearly as popular as Colombian coffee itself. Sanchez retired from the role in 2006, but Juan Valdez lives on both as a spokesperson and as a chain of coffee shops. On National Coffee Day, celebrate your own favorite brand with a delicious cup of joe. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 28th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate tickling the ivories and the folks on the porch next door. Before the piano arrived on the scene, the most popular keyboard instrument was the harpsichord. It made beautiful music, but its volume could not be varied while playing. Composers and musicians wanted an instrument with the ability for more controlled expression. This led Bartolomeo Cristofori to create an instrument that allowed musicians to alter volume and tone with the force of their fingers. He called it the piano. Well, technically the original name was much longer. We’ll spare you the Italian name, but it translates to “soft and loud keyboard instrument.” September is National Piano Month and thanks to Mr. Cristofori, we can celebrate beautiful music in every genre from Classical to Rock. In the early 1970s, National Good Neighbor Day was created by Becky Mattson of Lakeside, Montana. What began as an effort to build goodwill in our communities, became a Presidential Proclamation in 1978. Jimmy Carter said: “... we are mindful that the noblest human concern is concern for others. For most of us, this sense of community is nurtured and expressed in our neighborhoods where we give each other the opportunity to share and feel part of a larger family…” On National Good Neighbor Day celebrate the spirit of friendship that has far reaching consequences. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 27th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate colorful scraps and comfort drinks. The first scarves depicted in fashion are found in ancient Egypt, where Queen Nefertiti wore a tightly woven scarf beneath her conical headdress. Military ranks were often marked with scarves of varying value from expensive silk to lowly cotton. But our love for scarves as a fashion statement can be traced to the house of Hermes in the 19th century. Making use of the beautiful patterned fabrics from China and India, Hermes designed the first ready-to-wear graphic silk scarf in 1837. When it caught the eye of Queen Victoria and became a part of her iconic look, scarves were quickly embraced in Europe and America as the essence of chic. On National Scarf Day, enjoy the big impact of a small strip of fabric. While hot chocolate has been around in one form or another for thousands of years, it’s believed that chocolate milk came from 17th century Jamaica. Sir Hans Sloane, an Irish botanist was given a post here, to serve an English Duke. While mixing with the locals, he discovered a drink made of cocoa and water that he described as nauseating. By substituting milk for the water he created a much smoother concoction that he later brought to apothecaries in Europe, where it was used as a medicine. And while chocolate milk may not be considered a health food, on National Chocolate Milk Day we remind you that some foods feed your body, while others feed your soul. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 26th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate self awareness and a breakfast that’s older than dirt. When singer songwriter Ellen Edwards began her music career she kicked up her heels with the best of them. Reaching new heights in 2020 she recorded a jazz album in the Big Apple with some of New York’s finest. But even those who soar with eagles know, sometimes you find yourself grounded with too much responsibility. That’s why Ellen wrote “Chicken Scratch.” Though her kids have all flown the coop this mother of three recently found life overwhelming and she turned to music for refuge. This time she found her flock in Nashville, TN. During National Chicken Month, you might be feeling like Ellen, with a thousand chickens on your back. Just don’t forget that it’s also Self-Care Awareness Month, and you can find your own patch of freedom far from the clucking crowds. Listen here for Ellen's song Chicken Scratch. Today we celebrate a 30,000 year old breakfast food, the pancake. That’s right, the Stone Age folks were eating pancakes. Though they are not exactly featured on the menu of any cave paintings, scientists did find pancakes in the stomach of Otzi the Iceman, who dates back 5,300 years! When Shakespeare wrote about pancakes, the tradition of Shrove Tuesday already existed. And apparently quality cakes mattered in Elizabethan England. In a quote from the play As You Like It, “...a certain knight that swore on his honor they were good pancakes…” turned out to be lying! We hope he didn’t lose his head! Whether you call them hot cakes, crepes or johnnycakes, don’t settle for anything ordinary. On National Pancake Day, I celebrate with a dash of vanilla in the batter! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 25th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate one-hit wonders and unsung heroes. By definition one-hit wonders are songs by artists that make us swoon only once before fading into obscurity. So in honor of National One-Hit Wonder Day, which songs fit that description for you? Every comic book fan knows the name, Stan Lee. But you may not be familiar with his partner, Jack Kirby. Together they created Iron Man, Thor, Hulk and the X-Men. Stan was the writer and Jack was the artist. Jack had been working in comics years before the two teamed up, creating his most famous character as World War II broke out. If you’ve ever seen Captain America punching Hitler in the face, Jack drew that. Shortly after he was drafted by the Army and assigned as a scout because he was able to quickly draw reconnaissance maps. After returning to the United States, Jack met Stan Lee and the rest is history. On National Comic Book Day, celebrate the men and women behind the heroes who may just prove that truth is more amazing than fiction. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 24th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate dramatic desserts and spooky searches. Nothing says celebration like the word jubilee. But how did this word get attached to cherries and set on fire for dessert? For that story we look to the renowned chef Auguste Escoffier. In honor of Queen Victoria’s Jubilee event, the chef combined her love of cherries with a simple syrup and warm brandy which he lit on fire for a dramatic finish. It turns out that Escoffier had a knack for making ladies feel special. He designed the dessert Peach Melba for Nellie Melba and a macaroon for Sarah Bernhardt bearing her name. On National Cherries Jubilee Day, celebrate something special with a flaming dessert that has passion written all over it! As a child Ed Warren grew up in a haunted house. His future wife, Lorraine realized that she had clairvoyant abilities. When they married, the two became world-renowned paranormal investigators, helping people with hauntings and supernatural phenomena. Among their most famous cases were Annabelle, a possessed doll and the Amityville Horror. They became so well known that Ed was even recognized by the Catholic Church as a demonologist. The Warrens’ story has inspired amateur ghost hunters around the world to seek out haunted houses, and signs of spiritual activity. You may not be a believer but on National Ghost Hunting Day, you can celebrate with your internet search that may just change your mind. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 23rd, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate presidential pooches and great American pie. When Richard Nixon ran as Eisenhower’s Vice President in 1952 he was accused of receiving money and gifts illegally. He told his critics that if they found that he’d done anything wrong he would return everything except a black and white Cocker Spaniel named Checkers. Even politicians have a soft spot for animals. Many presidents have had pets while in the White House, but there were some truly strange ones. Herbert Hoover had an opossum, Calvin Coolidge a raccoon that he walked on a leash, and Teddy Roosevelt had snakes, dogs, cats, a badger, birds, guinea pigs, and even a pony. On National Checkers Day And Dogs In Politics Day, we celebrate presidential pooches, and remember there aren’t just people living at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. While pot pies have been around since ancient Rome, today we celebrate our love of this perfect comfort food that we find truly American. Almost every culture has a recipe for savory filling baked between two flakey crusts, but some of these recipes are best left behind. For example, it may seem crazy that anyone would enjoy a dinner that included a live bird bursting out of a pie, but this Roman tradition existed up until the 16th century in England. Today we take pride in our rich heritage of hearty stews baked into flaky crust that make many Americans nostalgic. On National Great American Pot Pie Day enjoy this delicious national treasure. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 22nd, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate living history and small heroes with hairy feet. If you have made it to 100 years old, congratulations! Today we celebrate you on National Centenarian's Day. In the United States alone, there are estimated to be nearly 72,000 centenarians. The youngest of those were born after the end of World War I and the signing of the Treaty of Versailles. They represent a living history full of tales not found in books and their stories animate and compliment what we already know. On National Centenarian's Day, count yourself lucky if someone you love can share stories that bring history to life from their very own past. Do you guys know anyone that’s over 100? In the early 1930s, J.R.R. Tolkien created the greatest fantasy epic of all time. There were dragons, goblins, and wizards but at the heart of his stories were Hobbits. Bilbo and Frodo Baggins played a big part in saving Middle Earth, but neither was anything special. They were ordinary folk like you and me, who got caught up in something far bigger than themselves. These small creatures are meant to be stand-ins for the regular guy, and to be examples of how people can grow beyond their comfortable lives when they take risks. On Hobbit Day, we encourage you that “even the smallest person can change the course of history.” I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 21st, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate being spicy and the joy of music. The word ‘chai’ means ‘tea’ in Hindi, but the original drink didn’t contain tea at all. In fact the milk and sweetener in today’s recipe were added by the British during their occupation of India. Legend has it that chai was created 5000 years ago for an Indian king for medicinal purposes. Spicy ginger and black pepper stimulate digestion, cloves relieve pain, cardamom elevates your mood and cinnamon supports the lungs and heart. Sounds like a cure all to me! On National Chai Day enjoy this spicy drink that’s the perfect remedy for chilly weather! While you may not be a fan of classical music, I bet you’ve heard of Beethoven’s 9th Symphony. Ode to Joy is considered to be the composer’s greatest work. What makes this symphony so special is that it was composed when Beethoven was deaf. When the 9th Symphony debuted in 1824, he stood with the conductor in front of the orchestra with his back turned to the audience. As the performance ended, the crowd erupted into thunderous applause, and because he couldn’t hear, Beethoven had no idea that the audience liked it. Imagine his surprise as he turned around to see the standing ovation. During Classical Music Month, celebrate the oldies but goodies and find your very own ode to joy. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 20th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate glorified leftovers and playing with your food. Rice is a staple in many cuisines, but fried rice is one of the world’s most popular dishes for a reason. It's easy to elevate this side dish to a main event by adding chicken, steak or prawns. The recipe is pretty simple. Start with long grained rice, peas, carrots and onions, and add a little egg to bring it all together. If you’re making it at home you can spice it up according to your tastes. Add any protein cooked on the grill, and you just earned your Iron Chef status. On National Fried Rice Day, don't be afraid to mix things up in your own kitchen. In the 1950s, the popularity of pizza in the United States skyrocketed and so did the demand for mozzarella cheese. Baker Cheese Company in St. Cloud, Wisconsin shifted from making cheddar to mozzarella in order to cash in on the craze. The gamble paid off big when this family owned business became a major supplier of mozzarella for many pizzerias. The cheese was shipped out in large blocks or loaves, which was perfect for a business, but Baker wanted to try something different: individual servings. What we now know as string cheese was marketed to bars as a quick bite to enjoy while having a drink. But when kids got their hands on it the word was out: string cheese is fun! On National String Cheese Day, celebrate the snack that’s all about playing with your food. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 18th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate legends in the sky and paradise found. When Chuck Yeager enlisted into the United States Army he knew nothing about airplanes. He learned that the Army Air Forces were looking for pilots and the position paid far better than his own at the time. Yeager went on to become a highly decorated fighter pilot, earning the rank of Brigadier General. Most famously, he was the first person to break the speed of sound, an event he almost missed. Two days before the test flight, he broke his ribs, but rather than notifying his superiors, he taped his chest and rigged a device to help him close the plane’s hatch. The rest is legend. As we celebrate the Air Force Birthday, may we honor the men and women who follow the path carved by this flying ace, who had all the “right stuff.” When songwriter Jimmy Buffet found himself on a sailing trip gone wrong he was forced to eat only canned foods and peanut butter to survive. This state of mind caused him to daydream about soul satisfying food, the kind that can only be found in “carnivorous ways.” Apparently drinking carrot juice and soaking up rays only added to his fever and when he finally docked in Road Town on the Caribbean island of Tortolla, he ordered a cheeseburger! And thus the song Cheeseburger in Paradise was born. Lucky for us land lovers, a good burger joint is never too far away. On National Cheeseburger Day, enjoy your own corner of paradise, which is Heaven on Earth with an onion slice. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 19th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate sweet treats and scurvy sea dogs. If you’re a fan of sweet desserts then you’ll appreciate today’s celebration of butterscotch pudding. An 1848 newspaper offers the scoop on this dessert. According to “Housewife’s Corner” and Masluk Cream Co., the real recipe for “making Doncaster butterscotch is one pound of butter, one pound of sugar and a quarter of a pound of treacle, boiled together.” Treacle is a thick, molasses-like syrup that gives this pudding its caramel flavor. And if you’re in a grownup mood you can spike your pudding with bourbon or rum. On National Butterscotch Pudding Day, butter up your sweet tooth with this creamy satisfying dessert. Before Captain Jack Sparrow captured our imagination for a buccaneer life, legendary pirates owned the high seas. Many of the sources for these stories are highly unreliable and based many on fearsome legends. For the notorious Captain Blackbeard, this image worked in his favor. His terrifying reputation encouraged foes to give up without a fight. Other pirates such as Calico Jack were better known for the company they kept. Anne Bonney and Mary Read became legendary under Captain Jack’s famous black flag. Before you go yapping your mah on Talk Like A Pirate Day you might want to bone up on some of the true adventures of the real life raiders of the sea. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 17th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the flavor of Fall and an adventurous sandwich. As soon as the air turns crisp, a new season of apples is on the way. One way to celebrate the flavor of Fall is by baking up some apple dumplings. The word dumpling in German means steamed, which is why their apple dumplings are boiled or steamed. The American recipe comes from Pennsylvania and in the Amish tradition they are baked. The dough is spiked with cinnamon and sugar and reaches a golden perfection that’s reminiscent of apple pie. No one can resist this treat and the Amish even eat them for breakfast. On National Apple Dumpling Day, celebrate the season’s best fruit with this traditional treat! If you’ve read The Count Of Monte Cristo, you might think of sword fights, adventure and swashbuckling. The Monte Cristo sandwich, on the other hand, has nothing to do with adventure or revenge. Made with white bread, ham, turkey and Swiss cheese that is dipped in batter and fried in butter, the Monte Cristo became popular in the 1950s. When it picked up a side of jelly on the menu at Disneyland in the 60s, this sandwich vaulted into stardom. The combo still holds a place on menus today, although now it’s served for breakfast or lunch. On National Monte Cristo Day, find your own adventurous side as you order up one of these classics for lunch. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 16th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate fascinating fungus and a dough reinvented. The largest organism on Earth isn’t an animal. It isn’t a tree, either. Surprisingly, it’s a fungus called the honey mushroom that grows in Oregon’s Malheur National Forest. The mushroom has a system that covers nearly 2000 acres, both above and below ground. It’s also estimated to be around 8,000 years old, which makes it one of the oldest living things on the planet. For the fresher kind, folks can visit the mushroom capital of the world which is found in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. Here they produce more than one million pounds of edible mushrooms a day. This town is gearing up to celebrate National Mushroom Month with a festival that draws a crowd of 100,000! When Joe McVicker first discovered a clay that would pick up soot from wallpaper his invention had an important job. But when furnaces changed from coal to oil, this wallpaper cleaner was out of work. Joe was inspired to put the clay in the hands of some preschoolers, renaming it Play-Doh and adding some color. But when Captain Kangaroo featured the toy on his new CBS show, Play-Doh became a household name. Inducted into the Toy Hall of Fame in 1988, it’s hard to imagine a world without this creative invention. On National Play-Doh Day, celebrate the spirit of fun that still fuels our kids’ imaginations. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 15th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a seasonal topper and wagging your pasta tongue. Not so long ago people wouldn’t dare to be seen without a hat on in public. More than a fashion statement, hats have identified our status, our military rank and even our religion. Think Quaker hat or the stovepipe kind worn by President Lincoln. These days, most people love the vintage styles of a pork pie or bowler. Be bold enough to try something new and you may never have a bad hair day again! On National Felt Hat Day, sport your own style, whether you’re mad as a hatter or conservative as a cloche. Why are there so many different pasta shapes? You might think it’s silly to make a fuss over such things, but to the Italians everything has a reason. Some pastas like fettucine are flat and broad and made for holding cream sauce. Others like spaghetti are rounded in shape and perfect for tomato based sauces. And the best of both worlds is the elliptical shape of linguini, which means little tongues. For the people of Genoa, linguini is a 400 hundred year old tradition. The region also boasts its pesto and seafood. We find it’s best not to argue with tradition. On National Linguini Day, let these little tongues loose and don’t forget to clam up. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 14th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a heroic sandwich and thinking outside the box. Depending on where you live, the submarine sandwich might be called a sub, grinder or hero. But did you know that the name “hoagie” goes all the way back to World War I? During that time in Philadelphia there were a lot of Italian immigrants working the shipyards of Hog Island. Apparently, they were known for packing delicious sandwiches for lunch, which came to be known as “hoggies” after the island where they worked. The Philly accent probably explains how the name “hoggie” became “hoagie.” On National Eat A Hoagie Day, call it anything you like, a sandwich by any other name still tastes as good. If you think you’re not creative, think again. Most of us spend at least a little time each day thinking outside the box. On National Live Creative Day, it’s all about changing things up to give your conscious brain a break from trying to keep it all in check. Try tuning into a show that is halfway finished and let your mind fill in the missing plot info or back story. Or consider taking a different route along the way to doing errands. Whenever you can break up your routine, you give your brain a chance to explore some uncharted territory, before it can give you the same excuses for why you’re not an artist or musician. On National Live Creative Day, expand your perspective on what it means to be original. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 13th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate trading places and how our Nation got its uncle. National Kids Take Over The Kitchen Day is a great way to encourage young chefs while answering the dreaded question, “What’s for dinner?” Sure it might be pancakes or macaroni and cheese, but it could be a delicious change of pace. It also lets kids stretch their culinary legs, while spending some quality time together. You may want to start with something simple that matches your kiddo’s age and aptitude. By the way, it’s also National Ants On A Log Day, which is perfect for junior chefs. In no time they will graduate into more complex meals. Hey John, what did Declan make for dinner this week? Did you know that Uncle Sam is based on a real person? During the war of 1812, Samuel Wilson of Troy, New York worked in a meatpacking plant. The factory provided American troops with food for the war effort and thus their barrels and crates were stamped “U.S.” The stamping was Samuel’s job and his coworkers began joking that “U.S”. stood for “Uncle Sam.” The joke was on them, however, as the name stuck and became a symbol of our nation’s pride and strength. On Uncle Sam Day, celebrate your own patriotic spirit and be careful with nicknames that can last a lifetime. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us a Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 12th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate chocolate medicine and a real game changer. In the late 1800s milkshakes were served in pharmacies as a tonic or medicine. These sturdy eggnog type drinks were spiked with whiskey and other ingredients that were thought to be medicinal. By the 1900s, a more wholesome drink was offered with either chocolate, vanilla or strawberry syrup and none of the alcohol. Malt powder made its debut in the 1870s but both malts and milkshakes hit their stride in the 1920s. By this time ice cream and blenders were more popular and elevated the milkshake to its frothy heights! On National Chocolate Milkshake Day, it’s just fine to celebrate with whipped cream and chocolate sauce to make the medicine go down. In 2018 the film industry grossed over 41 billion dollars worldwide. Not too shabby. But it might surprise you to learn that during that same year, video games sales were over 152 billion! If you’re not quick with numbers, that’s nearly four times as much! Pretty impressive for an industry that started with a game called Pong which consisted of two lines and a dot that bounced back and forth between them. Since then, we’ve been introduced to Space Invaders, Donkey Kong, Sonic the Hedgehog and Mario Brothers. Every year the games get more elaborate and generate more revenue in an already booming market. On National Video Games Day, celebrate the pastime that is now bigger than all other forms of digital entertainment combined. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 11th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we remember the events from two decades ago and hold to the ties that bind us. Anyone who remembers 911 can recall the intense emotions of an event that united us in tragedy. As we reflect on that day from the distance of more than two decades, we pay our respects to the fallen, along with the families who were forever changed. We also remember the heroism of the first responders and countless volunteers who helped us all overcome the fear of that day. While 911 is referred to as Patriot Day, it is also known as National Day of Service and Remembrance. May we strive to find hope in our common ground and promote acts of unity no matter how small. When we think of our great Nation, the threads that tie us all together could be called Americana. Since the word was coined in 1841 it’s been used to describe anything in our culture, from folk music to food and events that strikes a chord in the hearts of people coast to coast. This word means home and that place might look different for everyone who embraces the word. What matters most is the history that keeps our roots connected. This pride of ownership in our country can hopefully soothe the gaps between us, while letting us celebrate the things that make us beautiful. September is National Americana Month and while we rediscover our own meaningful songs, stories and food, may we find respect among our nation’s most cherished traditions. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 10th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate big ideas and a dinner flashback. 20 years ago the Ewing Marion Kauffman foundation developed a big idea. They believed in the power of sharing business advice over a simple cup of coffee and from this concept 1 Million Cups was born. Today more than 160 communities meet once a week in a Town Hall style gathering to give feedback to entrepreneurs with big ideas. How does this benefit people without a chapter in their community? Just ask Edie Ramstad from Ada, Minnesota. Edie’s online business, Weave Got Maille, was floundering and a week before closing the doors on her chain maille business she decided to take a trip. Attending 1 Million Cups in a different community not only gave her some encouragement it saved her business, which today earns millions! On National Swap Ideas Day, check out what’s possible in your neck of the woods and leverage the power of a meeting of the minds. While the first aluminum tv dinner tray was added to the Smithsonian Museum in 1986, the origins of this meal are hotly contested. Maxon Food Systems manufactured the first frozen meal in 1945 for military and civilian air travel. The concept was further developed by Jack Fisher, who sold FridgiDinners to restaurants and taverns in the late 1940s. But it was Swanson and Sons, whose Thanksgiving meal was first sold in 1953 for 98 cents. Packaged in aluminum, this dinner could be baked in the oven in under 30 minutes. That’s pretty good for a meal that normally takes all day to make. And judging by the more than 10 million sold in the very first year, Americans were truly grateful. On National TV Dinner Day, celebrate this modern convenience that still holds a place at the dinner table. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 9th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a serious schnitzel and a presidential bear. Apparently there was once a brewhaa over Wiener Schnitzel. It’s still well known as an Austrian dish, where it’s made with a few strict rules. In Vienna it is made by law with veal. The name “Wiener” is German for Viennese cutlet. A schnitzel is the method of preparing any meat that is pounded thin, breaded and fried. Austrians claim that the recipe came from an Austrian Field Marshal in 1869. But the Italians have a bone to pick with this story. They insist that the recipe was borrowed from their cotoletta alla milanese, which is identical except that the veal is left on the bone. On National Wiener Schnitzel Day, settle the score with your own favorite recipe. Or head to Wienerschnitzel if you don’t have a dog in this fight. Theodore Roosevelt was an avid outdoorsman and hunter. But during his term as President, he became known for his compassionate side as well. On a hunting trip in 1902, Roosevelt’s companions lassoed a black bear and gave him an opportunity to take a shot. But the President refused to kill the defenseless animal and reportedly said, “I couldn’t be proud of myself if I shot an old, tired, worn-out bear that was tied to a tree.” News of this incident spread across the country and people admired his choice. In Brooklyn, New York a toymaker created a stuffed animal that was dubbed Teddy’s Bear. That bear became wildly popular and was soon in high demand. On National Teddy Bear Day, we celebrate this loveable toy and the softer side of the President who inspired it. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 8th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate liquid gold and awkward moments. Bees work very hard to make honey. In fact, a hive can produce up to 100 pounds of the sweet stuff each year. To put that in perspective, it takes approximately 768 bees who fly over 55,000 miles to visit 2 million flowers just to make a single pound of honey. And thank goodness that they do because not only does honey power the hive, it has tremendous health benefits for humans as well. For thousands of years honey has been used for food as well as medicine because of its antibacterial qualities. And because of its high acidity and low moisture content, it can last a long time. A really long time. If honey is sealed in an airtight container, it has an infinite shelf life. During National Honey Month, celebrate the golden goodness of this small miracle. No matter how old we get, school pictures will always remind us of our most awkward moments. Perhaps that’s why we treasure them so much. For better or worse, these photos capture the bygone eras of fashion and hairstyles we wish we could forget. No matter how confident you were back in the day, there will always be a youngster to snicker at your personal time capsule. So get brave and share them on social media today. You can also reassure your kids that they will have a peanut gallery of their own one day. On National School Picture Day enjoy the virtual trip down memory lane for better or for worse. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 7th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate learning how the sausage is made and a top down love for beer. The Latin word “salumen” means a mixture of salted meats. Salami is a generic term used to describe any encased meat product, but in Italy this typically means pork. In the same way that cheeses are named for the place in which they’re made, salami is more specifically identified by its native region. This could be Salame di Felino from Parma or Soppressata from Calabria. The sausages vary by spice and curing process, but most are tied and aged in cool dark cellars for days or months. On National Salami Day, try something truly special as you find out how the sausage is made. Americans have loved beer from the very beginning. George Washington was a huge fan of porters. Thomas Jefferson kept his home well stocked with beer. James Madison wanted to establish a national brewery and appoint a Secretary of Beer. Sadly, that idea did not come to fruition. Franklin Roosevelt continued this presidential tradition. When he came into office, FDR promised to have Prohibition repealed. And before the ban was lifted on any other alcohol, Roosevelt signed an executive order to legalize the sale of, you guessed it, beer. During National Beer Lover's Day, crack open a cold one and enjoy the drink that’s always been a favorite I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 6th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a sweet breakfast buzz and taking a virtual trip. You’ve heard the phrase “when in Rome…” but if you can’t hop a plane to Italy just now, why not mix things up with a sweet twist on breakfast? Apparently it’s perfectly acceptable in Sicily to start the day with coffee flavored gelato tucked inside fresh brioche bread. Uh, yum! Italians also make a dessert called Affogato which means “drowned” and you guessed it, a scoop of ice cream gets drowned in espresso. Coffee ice cream has been around since 1869 and it’s been on Howard Johnson’s menus, right alongside chocolate and vanilla since the 1960s. On National Coffee Ice Cream Day it’s ok to have your buzz for breakfast or dessert! One of the easiest ways to travel the world is to crack open a good book. Take a trip to Middle Earth, fight dragons and save the world from impending doom. Or hop a train at Platform Nine and Three-Quarters to enroll in a school for witches and wizards. And if romance is more your thing, get swept off your feet to the moors of Northern England. Books can take you anywhere and everywhere through the power of your imagination. And reading to your kids is a great way to introduce them to a life-long love of literature. On National Read A Book Day, celebrate by curling up for an hour or two with the perfect way to get away from it all. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 5th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate perfectly simple pies and taking a break. Whoever said, “Love is all you need” forgot about cheese, and if we are talking about pizza then cheese is definitely all you need. Dating back to ancient Greece, the simple flatbread known as pita was topped with olive oil, herbs and cheese, and it’s here that our love affair with pizza was born. Fast forward to Naples, Italy, in 1889 when a pizza with the colors of the Italian flag was made for the Queen. This Neapolitan style with cheese, sauce and a little basil was given the name Margherita in her honor. Today more than 2 billion pounds of pizza cheese are produced in the United States alone. That’s a lot of amore! On National Cheese Pizza Day, skip all those extra toppings and celebrate the good stuff! Since 1882 we have honored the folks who labored to build the backbone of our country. These roads, buildings and infrastructure have supported us ever since our nation began. And while Americans are generally considered to be hard working, this day is all about relaxing with family and friends as we recognize the unofficial end of Summer. If you are headed back to school, you still have time for one more adventure. Why not take a road trip to admire some of that original handiwork? The monuments and highways that were proudly built by our ancestors still hold breathtaking views. Whatever you get up to on Labor Day, remember the tradition of patting yourself on the back for a job well done while you kick back with those you love. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 4th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a famous paperboy and the call of the wild. When a young boy answered an ad in the New York Sun, looking for “steady men” to sell newspapers, little did he know that he would change history. On this day in 1933, 10 year old Barney Flaherty answered the call. His attitude was so sincere that the publisher hired him on the spot. From then on, the infamous shout of: “Get your papers here!” was heard on street corners around the city. The Newspaper Carrier Hall of Fame was created in 1960 to honor some of the more illustrious newspaper carriers including Martin Luther King, Jr., Warren Buffet and John Wayne. On National Newspaper Carrier Day give an extra shout out to the folks who carry on this tradition and maybe an extra tip for great service. Did you know that tiger stripes are as unique as human fingerprints? Or that otters hold hands while they sleep to keep from drifting apart in the water? The natural world is a curious place, full of fascinating animals that most of us will never see in person, unless you live close to a zoo. But thanks to filmmakers such as Sir David Attenborough, we can watch the beauty of the animal kingdom from a front row seat in our living room. His amazing documentaries capture our imagination and inspire compassion and wonder for the natural world. They also answer questions like, Which animal is more deadly, the crocodile or the hippo? It’s the hippo of course. On National Wildlife Day, celebrate the call of the wild by taking a virtual safari. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 3rd, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate poor man’s rabbit and a party on the go. We all know that nicknames have a way of sticking with us. Take the name “Welsh Rarebit” for example. This basic dish of toasted wheat bread with cheddar cheese sauce contains no actual rabbit and was originally called caws pobi in 16th Century Wales. The English dubbed the meal Welsh Rarebit towards the end of the 18th century as a nod to “poor man’s rabbit.” Apparently the Welsh didn’t mind a bit of ribbing as this traditional fare is still a pub favorite. On National Welsh Rarebit Day try a bite of something classically delicious and raise a pint to the Welsh who know how to take a joke. With Fall in the air, the season of tailgating officially begins. For most folks this coincides with football but it seems the tradition has earlier roots. Some have suggested that the spectators of the Battle of Bull Run in 1861 were the first tailgaters. They reportedly arrived with their picnic baskets and bottles of claret to watch the “opposing teams.” This only proves that you don’t need a truck or a tailgate to enjoy the tradition of sharing a meal outside before the advent of the big game. Grab the portable grill and some drinks and snacks and head to the stadium. Most people like the casual potluck feel of this gathering where the only rule is “come hungry!” And if you’re feeling fancy, go all in with face painting. On National Tailgating Day, enjoy this party on the go that’s guaranteed to draw a crowd. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 2nd, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate topping things off and showing our true colors. The image of the bowler derby immediately calls to mind British gentlemen walking around the streets of London. But this chapeau was conceived for the countryside. Edward Cook, a British politician, wanted a hat that was well suited for hunting. The traditional hats at the time were tall and would be knocked off when walking or riding through trees. Cook wanted something that fit closer to the head and the hat makers at James Lock & Co created the perfect cap—the bowler. So why is it called a bowler? Because London hat-makers Thomas and William Bowler got the credit for inventing it…even though it was Lock & Co. During Fall Hat Month, celebrate by dusting off your favorite chapeau, no matter how fancy or casual it may be. Fall is back and with it comes college football. The season can lead to heated arguments as friends and families cheer on their favorite teams. This fierce team loyalty even extends to the United States Armed Forces. The Army and Navy are usually on the same side. Except for once a year when the Army Navy matchup takes place, possibly the fiercest rivalry in college sports. These teams have gone head to head over 120 times, with the Navy winning most of them. Even sitting Presidents have attended the games between the Army Black Knights and the Navy Midshipmen, and the stands are usually full of either black, gold and gray or navy blue and gold. On National College Colors Day, celebrate your team spirit with the colors of your choice. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Da Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 1st, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate new beginnings and burnt ends. During its heyday, Route 66 offered beautiful scenery and lots of fun places to stop along the way. Chicken Boy was one of the most famous of these roadside attractions. The fried chicken restaurant boasted a giant statue of a man with a chicken’s head that welcomed visitors to the city of Los Angeles. But when a new highway system made Route 66 obsolete, many of the stops went out of business. This included the Chicken Boy, who was headed for the trash heap in 1984, when a local artist rescued him. Now installed on a rooftop, this icon is known as the Statue of Liberty of Los Angeles. On National Chicken Boy Day, celebrate this blast from the past with some wings or fried chicken and maybe a trip down Route 66. While fans of barbecue have their personal favorites when it comes to style, no one can argue that Kansas City has one of the most distinctive takes on barbecue. Yes, there are ribs and pulled pork, but Kansas City is known for its specialty, burnt ends. This morsel is cut from the tip of a smoked brisket. The outside is charred from the heat, but the inside is where the drippings collect, making for a flavorful bite sized piece of BBQ heaven. For years, it was thrown away or tossed into stew, but now it’s a prized cut of meat. You can get all heated up over who has the best sauce, but no one can deny these tidbits are delicious. On National Burnt Ends Day, celebrate the perfect bite you can really sink your teeth into. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 31st, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate cupid’s little helpers and snacks that go the distance. Before online dating sites, the art of matchmaking was devised by a few brave souls who were willing to fire cupid’s arrows. When Kat McClain got fed up with cupid’s algorithms, she turned to a professional matchmaking service to try things the old fashioned way. They matched her with Kevin Biely and the two agreed to record their first date. The difference was striking, as Kevin later revealed. He believes that it worked out so well because a lot of the criteria he had in his head were not actually consistent with what he really wanted. As for her response: a year later she said yes! On National Matchmaker Day, we celebrate the chemistry that can’t be found by a computer. When you’re craving an outdoor adventure, you want to pack light. Trail mix is the perfect snack that fuels you up without weighing you down. This convenient snack has been used for thousands of years with a variety of ingredients. Native Americans added dried buffalo to the fruit and nut mixture. Trail guide Horace Kephart was the first to add chocolate to the mix in 1910. In Australia and New Zealand they call trail mix scroggin and add orange peel and grains. The term GORP stands for good ole raisins and peanuts, which was a recipe made up by two surfer dudes. In the spirit of keeping it simple, celebrate National Trail Mix Day with any combination that keeps you going for the long haul. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 30th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate finding our happy place and dessert on a stick. Someone once said, “Happiness is a day at the beach.” That pretty much sums it up! The beach can be the very best place to get away from it all, with the smell of the salty air, the sand crunching between your toes and the sound of waves crashing into the shore. Just thinking about it makes you want to hop in the car and drive to the ocean. And if you want to avoid the crowds, taking a walk at sunset can be one of the most relaxing things you’ll ever do. Be sure to do your part and leave this paradise better than you found it. On National Beach Day, there is no better way to celebrate than by following the advice of Ralph Waldo Emerson: live in the sunshine, swim the sea, drink the wild air. There is something truly magical about toasting marshmallows. When the fire dies down and you’ve had your fill of s’mores, there’s always room for another toasted marshmallow. In fact not everyone around the world enjoys making s’mores, but toasting perfect marshmallows seems to intrigue us universally. As far back as ancient Egypt, the sap from the mallow plant has been used for this confection. But it wasn’t until the late 1940s that marshmallows got their modern shape. And thanks to the extrusion process, those perfect puffy cylinders toast up evenly on a stick. On National Toasted Marshmallow Day enjoy the sticky dessert that makes camping life sweeter. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 29th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate odds and ends and counting the ways we love lemon. It is believed that the name chop suey means “assorted pieces” and this name fits the hodgepodge of myths surrounding its creation. Though the Chinese don’t claim the dish, they are usually at the heart of its stories, which go back as far as the 1860s. A Chinese chef in San Francisco was reportedly called upon to serve something to drunken miners after hours. He had nothing fresh to offer, so he combined leftovers and served a makeshift meal. It went over so well that the customers demanded a name for this dish and he supposedly replied, “chop suey,” which means odds and ends. On National Chop Suey Day, celebrate the delicious combination of flavors that piece together our love of Chinese cuisine. The sunny yellow citrus fruit that brightens our ice tea and drinks turns out to be mighty useful around the house. Did you know that lemon juice freshens your garbage disposal and takes the stains out of your sink? Of course we know that it prevents apples from browning, but did you know it works on veggies too? Try the same trick on cauliflower or give wilted lettuce a lift by soaking it in water with the juice of a lemon. It can also brighten hair and fingernails and can be used in place of deodorant. Of course it still tastes great in lemonade, which is probably the best use of all. On National Lemon Juice Day, celebrate the multipurpose wonder of this mighty little fruit. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 28th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate cheesy shows and seeing red. If you’re a fan of Zordon or Rita Repulsa, then you know exactly what we’re celebrating today. Although this kid’s show was pieced together with old footage from a Japanese TV show, Mighty Morphin’ Power Rangers was a huge hit in 1993. Five teenagers transformed into...well Power Rangers, who then merged into a giant robot that fought monsters. Yeah, it sounds crazy, but if you grew up in the 90s, this was THE show to watch. And your neighborhood was probably full of every color of Ranger on Halloween. On National Power Rangers Day, celebrate with a walk down memory lane and watch some old episodes. The special effects are cheesy but the lessons on teamwork are priceless! Though folks enjoy wine all year long, the end of Summer begins the seasonal celebration of the varietals known as reds. Merlot, Cabernet and Pinot Noir all pair well with the richer foods we all love to indulge in during cooler weather. And the good news is that reds are actually healthier for you than whites. The rule of thumb is that dryer wines are better for you than sweeter ones. And young wines, which tend to be darker, are healthier than the older, lighter ones. Moderation in all things is the key to a healthy life, but on National Red Wine Day, have fun indulging in the drink that’s the very symbol of celebration. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 27th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate doing things “just because” and getting to the good stuff. When was the last time you did something “just because?” Have you ever stopped to think about what saying “yes” instead of “no” might do for your life? For Shonda Rhimes it all started at a family Thanksgiving dinner when her sister pointed out that she always said no to everything! When the self proclaimed introvert challenged herself to a year of saying yes instead, the results changed her life! She ended up writing a best selling book, delivering a Ted Talk and producing the Emmy award winning television show, Grey’s Anatomy. The writer producer describes the feeling of triumph that comes from doing things that scare you. On National Just Because Day, celebrate the life changing habits that may come from simply saying “Yes!” Pots of cream may not sound delicious but pot de crème deserves its own celebration. Think of it as a cousin to crème brûlée. Both are made with simple ingredients of cream, eggs and flavorings that are baked into pots or individual ramekins for a super rich and creamy flavor. Today most people think of pot de crème as a chocolate dessert though its texture is close to a vanilla custard. In the Middle Ages this creamy concoction was used to fill pies and tarts or crustade, which is how we came by the name custard. By the 17th century people realized that the cream was the best part anyway and pots of cream became a dessert on their own. On National Pots De Creme Day, celebrate getting to the good stuff with this decadent dessert! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 26th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate women’s rights and man’s best friend. On this day in 1920 the United States Congress passed the 19th Amendment to the Constitution granting women full and equal voting rights. While it may sound preposterous today, this amendment was 80 years in the making, if you take into account that the seeds of unrest were sown in the early 1800s. That’s when Lucretia Mott and Elizabeth Cady Stanton, along with Martha Wright, Mary Ann McClintock and Jane Hunt set in motion plans for the first woman's rights convention in Seneca Falls, New York after being denied access to the Anti-Slavery Convention in London. Today we celebrate National Women’s Equality Day and the one hundred years of progress we have made since the 19th Amendment was passed. Over 15,000 years ago, early humans domesticated wolves and created a friendship that has stood the test of time. Since then dogs have proven to be loyal, friendly and hardworking to boot. No other canine represents these traits better than the film star Lassie. While this collie was first played by a pedigree female, she refused to swim in the river and was replaced by a male dog named Pal. Since then, all nine Lassies have been male and all of them descendants of Pal. It turns out that male collies don’t lose their coats as often as females and are therefore more suited to their movie closeups. On National Dog Day, celebrate your own furry friends who are awfully glad that you’re in their pack. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 25th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the great outdoors and one clever apprentice. After serving in the Union Army during the Civil War, Ferdinand Hayden did geographical surveys of the Grand Canyon and what would become the Western United States. One particular region of Northwestern Wyoming caught his attention and he petitioned the government to explore and document this area. Along with photographer William Henry Jackson and painter Thomas Moran, he put together a report that was presented to Congress. It made such an impression that on March 1, 1872, President Grant established Yellowstone as the first National Park. Nearly 150 years later, Yellowstone is still one of the most visited. On National Park Service Founders Day, celebrate the folks who saw the forest for the trees and helped preserve our great outdoors. In 1904 David Evans Strickler showed more than a little enthusiasm for his job. The 23 year old apprentice enjoyed making up new kinds of sundaes, but little did he know that he would soon make history. At Tassels Pharmacy in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, David stumbled upon the winning combination of three scoops of ice cream, whipped cream, nuts and a cherry all topping off a split banana. They charged double the price for this new concoction, but the banana split was worth all 10 cents. And eventually David bought the place, renaming it Strickler’s Pharmacy. To this day the Great American Banana Split Festival happens in downtown Latrobe. On National Banana Split Day celebrate the sweet rewards for being top banana! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 24th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate Summertime’s freshest pie and a tasty debate. Summertime means the freshest crops and the most delicious fruit. In Georgia that means peaches. Sure, California grows more of them than any other state, but in Georgia they have a reputation for being the best. Maybe that’s because to this day there are no major processing operations there. The good news for bakers is that Georgia peaches are always picked fresh and arrive in grocery stores full of juicy flavor. If you’re a pie maker you will know why this prize fruit is worth all the fuss. On National Peach Pie Day celebrate with the freshest you can find, and if you live in the Empire of the South count yourself lucky! There are two kinds of people, pancake people and waffle people. Sure, pancakes are delicious, but if you leave them in syrup too long, they get soggy. On the other hand, waffles are built for that sort of thing and their deep pockets let you pile on the toppings. Cornelias Swarthout patented the waffle iron in 1869, though folks had been enjoying waffles since the 14th century. His invention, however, made waffles more readily available. By the time people tasted the Belgian kind at the 1964 New York World’s Fair, waffles found their rightful place on the breakfast table. On National Waffle Day serve them anyway you please and invite your pancake friends to enjoy the difference. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 23rd, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate challenging new heights in the kitchen and on the runway. One of the most difficult cakes for bakers to master is the sponge cake. And if you are intrigued by this challenge, here are a few tips to ensure your success. Start with sifting the cake flour which makes for a lighter batter. Cake flour is more finely milled and produces a finer crumb. For egg whites that whip to the highest heights use only the freshest eggs. And skip the fancy frostings as this cake tastes perfect with only a dusting of powdered sugar and a few berries. On National Sponge Cake Day, don’t be intimidated by this lofty queen of cakes. While the Wright Brothers took to the sky in 1903 with a combustion engine plane, it turns out that a human powered aircraft was much tougher to build. That’s why the Royal Aeronautical Society announced the Kremer Competition in 1959 with a prize of 50,000 pounds. The strict figure 8 course was tough to navigate and the prize was not awarded until August 23rd, 1977. That's when Paul MacCready’s Gossamer Condor 2 beat the Japanese Stork and a year’s worth of work paid off big! On National Ride the Wind Day visit the Smithsonian where the Gossamer Condor 2 is displayed next to the Wright Brothers Plane and the Apollo 11 moon capsule. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 22nd, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate food that takes a bow and magical dentistry. During the Three Kingdoms era of China, a general and his troops found their way home was blocked by a raging river. The river god told the general that passage would only be granted if he cut off 50 of his soldiers’ heads and threw them into the river. Instead, the general ordered his cooks to create buns that looked like heads and threw them in the river instead. And, according to legend, that is how we came to have the delicious steamed buns known as bao. This may be a strange origin story for such a cute little dumpling, but on National Bao Day, we celebrate the small bite that tames our raging appetite. No one is quite sure how fairies took an interest in children’s health in the 1920s. But when Sir Arthur Conan Doyle published photographs of two girls surrounded by fairies the fascination took flight. This phenomenon was useful for teaching kids everything from eating their vegetables to getting fresh air. Then in 1927 Esther Watkins opened a link to the supernatural with her play known as the Tooth Fairy. Since then teeth have been magically transformed into money by the mysterious fairy folk. On National Tooth Fairy Day, celebrate this age old legend that still affects our kids' imagination. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 21st, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate stylish ice cream and late bloomers. No one does style quite like the Italians and as the popularity of gelato spread across Europe, ice cream makers had to find a way to ship it more efficiently. Chefs in Italy created Neapolitan ice cream, which was one big block with multiple flavors. And in the 1800s when Italian immigrants in New York began shipping it over from Europe they called this treat spumoni, after their favorite molded ice cream treat from Naples. The classic flavors include chocolate, pistachio, and cherry. Though when vanilla is substituted for chocolate, it's just as delicious. On National Spumoni Day, try a new twist on an old favorite that helps you beat the Summer heat alla moda. If the term “over the hill” has you clamoring for a bottle of hair color, maybe you need some perspective. There are plenty of senior citizens who made a splash that launched their golden years into the stratosphere. Take the Long Island comedian who didn’t land his lucky break until his appearance on the Ed Sullivan show at age 46. While he may have gotten “no respect” in his junior years, his appearance in Caddyshack at age 59 launched an enviable career for Rodney Dangerfield. Other notable seniors, such as the figure skater and editor turned dress designer, did not even hit her stride till after age 40. Today, style maven Vera Wang is a 71 year old fashion icon. On National Senior Citizens Day, celebrate the folks who know that it’s never too late to make your mark! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 20th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate amazing mashups in the kitchen and in the lab. Few things are as sweet as the Southern favorite pecan pie, but when someone decided to add chocolate, this candy-like dessert went over the top. Pecan trees are native to the American South, and this classic pie sprung up in the region around the late 1800s. Though sugar pies with a mixture of eggs, sugar and flavorings existed throughout Europe before then, the addition of crisp pecans is a claim to fame that’s purely American. But adding a handful of chopped chocolate will likely make this Southern belle a true crowd pleaser. On National Chocolate Pecan Pie Day, celebrate the American way of taking things over the top! While some inventions are created by just one genius, radio was born from a meeting of the minds. Oddly enough, these pioneers never sat down together. In Germany, the research of Heinrich Hertz proved that electricity could be transmitted wirelessly. From Croatia, Nikola Tesla provided the Tesla coil. And the first commercially available wireless was thanks to the Italian born Marconi. His technology was first used by the military but it was a Marconi wireless that broadcast the distress signal from the Titanic. Broadcast stations began airing programs in the 1920s that featured news from around the globe, and when entertainment followed the world became synchronized by the power of sound. On National Radio Day we celebrate this invention that is truly a melting pot of genius. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 19th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate playing with our food and more than a century in the wild blue yonder. For as long as anyone can remember, parents have told their children to not play with their food. But Mr. Potato Head changed that. In the late 1940s, Mr. Potato Head—or at least parts of him—were included in cereal boxes. Kids would collect the body parts and piece them together with actual potatoes to make the character. It wasn’t until the 1960s that Hasbro began making the plastic version of the beloved character that we know today. So raise a French fry and remember our favorite spud as we celebrate National Potato Day. Later, taters! While folks have been dreaming of navigating the skies for centuries, we usually give the credit to the Wright brothers for the first controlled, powered and sustained flight. The brothers tossed a coin to see who would test their glider first. Wilbur won the toss, however, his flight at Kitty Hawk lasted only 3 and a half seconds. Orville claimed the second attempt and made history on December 17, 1903. Today we can thank many inventors from Leonardo da Vinci to George Cayley for their contribution to aviation. But it was Franklin Delano Roosevelt who chose August 19th as the official date for National Aviation Day. On this day we also celebrate Orville Wright’s birthday. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Eve Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 18th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate fussy grapes and a satisfying sizzle. Pinot noir grapes are notoriously hard to grow. Too much weather variation can ruin a crop very quickly. Plus, the grapes grow in tight, cone-like clusters, which can be a problem because the fruit is extremely thin-skinned. This growth pattern is what gives the grape—and the wine—its name. The clusters look a bit like pine cones, and the skin is dark. Pinot noir. Oenophiles know that this finicky little grape makes a complex wine that doesn’t overpower—perfect for pairing with everything from bleu cheese to roast duck. On National Pinot Noir Day, celebrate with a glass of red that’s worth all the fuss. Everyone knows that food cooked outdoors just tastes better. Maybe that’s why fajitas became a household favorite. In the early 1930s Mexican vaqueros in Southwestern Texas found a way to use throwaway cuts of meat. These hungry cowboys cooked over an open flame and transformed the ordinary into a sizzling meal. They paired the fire roasted meat with corn and flour tortillas and a regional dish was born. Fajitas took off around the globe when restaurants began serving them with peppers and onions, guacamole and salsa. No matter how you dress them up, it’s the flame licked flavor that makes them special. On National Fajita Day make your taste buds happy with the sizzle that really satisfies. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 17th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate cool cats and doing something good. Perspective is everything. Take, for example, the black cat. In Ancient Egypt, cats were considered a sign of good luck. This is because felines helped to keep rats and mice away from food in storage. But in Europe, the same animal was seen as unlucky. As you’ve no doubt heard, a black cat crossing your path is bad luck. Mythology of Greek and Norse gods of the underworld were connected to the animal. Unfortunately, this is the superstition that became the most popular. On Black Cat Appreciation Day, drop the silly stereotype and embrace the cool-looking cat for all its charm and beauty! Nonprofit organizations are the backbones of our communities. They inspire everyday folks to rise to the needs of those in their communities. Everything from reading to a child to performing surgery can be donated, thanks to organizations and capable people coming together. For those who want to lend a helping hand, but aren’t sure how, the nonprofit Do Something offers an opportunity to connect with any number of campaigns. It’s geared towards young people and allows users to select their interests and designate the amount of free time they are able to give. The good news is that no matter what your status is in life, there is likely a project that needs your help. On National Nonprofit Day celebrate your own spirit of giving with the charity of your choice. I’m Anna Devere and I’m John McClain filling in for Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 16th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the need for speed and the spirit of the islands. Roller coasters attract adrenaline junkies to amusement parks around the world. These rides are thrilling and sometimes scary. But oddly enough, they were invented to keep people away from drinking and gambling. LaMarcus Adna Thompson built the first roller coaster in Coney Island, New York and it became very popular. The cars were powered only by gravity and sometimes hit top speeds of…6 miles an hour. The ride only cost a nickel, but people would ride it multiple times. A tradition that lives on to this day. On National Roller Coaster Day, take a trip down memory lane or choose something a little more wild. When life gives you lemons, you make lemonade. And in the 1600s when sugar production was booming, life gave the West Indies lots of molasses. This byproduct mostly went to waste until it was discovered that a delicious spirit could be distilled from it. Rum was first recorded in Barbados as rumbullion or kill devil and indeed it caused quite a stir. It is said that British sailors received regular rations of the liquor from the 18th century all the way through 1970. But when England began heavily taxing the Colonies for their sugar, molasses and rum a rebellion started brewing. Today this spirit inspires party drinks with umbrellas and on National Rum Day we celebrate with one of life’s best examples of turning lemons into lemonade. I’m Anna Devere and I’m John McClain filling in for Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 15th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate kicking up our feet and a cheerful pastry. The world seems to go a million miles an hour and we all need time to ourselves to decompress. For some, it’s meditation. For others, it’s getting a massage. And for a select few, it’s putting your feet in water and letting small fish chew away at dead skin. No really. That’s a thing. Fish pedicures are perfectly safe but it’s not for the squeamish. The point is that anything you do to relax is a okay as long as it chills you out. Today, please feel free to lean back and prop up your feet while you celebrate National Relaxation Day. If you’re taking things easy on this sunny Summer day, then boy do we have the dessert for you. Bright as the sun and as “easy as pie” a lemon meringue would do nicely right about now. Though lemons grow year round and nothing brightens up a meal come rain or shine quite like lemon juice, it’s time to bake up this old fashioned shortbread crust with tangy yellow custard topped with fluffy clouds of sweet meringue. It’s rumored that Elizabeth Goodfellow first whipped up the dessert as we know it today in the 19th century, when she also founded one of the first cooking schools in America. On National Lemon Meringue Pie Day, celebrate with an all time classic that reminds us of sunshine in the clouds. I’m Anna Devere and I’m John McClain Filling in for Marlo Anderson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 14th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a frozen success and a code that changed the game. You may have heard that the Popsicle was invented by a kid. That kid was 11 year old Frank Epperson, who kept right on dreaming after the huge success of his first frozen treat. At an age when most of us are trying out a paper route, young Frank experimented with vanilla ice cream covered in a shell of orange sherbert that he eventually called the Epsicle. Ok, so naming his inventions wasn't his strong suit, but the creamsicle made with vanilla ice cream and the dreamsicle, its ice milk cousin are now a frosty phenomenon. This kid certainly got something right when he set up a patent in 1923. Today over two billion popsicles are sold every year. On National Creamsicle Day, celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit of a kid who knew how to keep on dreaming. During World War II, the United States military became frustrated as the Japanese cracked every code used by the Allies. The solution to this problem came from an unlikely source, Native American tribes. Because many native languages such as Navajo and Comanche were unwritten and spoken only by tribespeople, they became the perfect basis for a new secret code. Native speakers were sent with army divisions to transmit and decode messages from the field of battle. The code they created could not be broken and helped change the course of history. On National Code Talkers Day, we celebrate these unsung heroes of World War II and the top secret role they played. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Da Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 13th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate cute steaks and a game with a checkered past. If you’ve ever wondered, “Where’s the beef?” after being served a filet mignon, then it’s probably not the steak for you. Mignon means “cute” in French and while filet refers to the most quality cut of the tenderloin, beauty is definitely in the eye of the beholder. The French use the term filet mignon to describe pork not steak and you would have to ask for filet de boeuf in order to get a cute little steak in France. So where did this name come from? Turns out it was an American author, O. Henry who coined the term in his 1906 novel “The Four Million.” Apparently, he thought it was a more ironic way to size up a teeny, tiny steak, than asking the waiter, “Hey, where’s the beef?!” On National Filet Mignon Day, don’t get too cute with the waiter, after all this tenderloin is still delicious! In the 1830s and 40s, officials in Connecticut passed a law to ban bowling. Apparently, the excessive gambling associated with the sport made it a threat to public welfare. Bowling at the time consisted of 9 pins, which is what the state outlawed. As a way to get around this, bowlers added an extra pin, creating the 10-pin game we know today. This new version of the game caught on in New England, though it took a few innovations before bowling caught on with the rest of the country. First, the material used for bowling balls was changed from wood to rubber. Then in the 50s the automatic pinsetter changed the game forever. On National Bowling Day get out and celebrate this family sport that’s still on a roll. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 12th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate rocking the world and rocking around the clock. What do Abraham Lincoln, Walt Disney, and Thor have in common? Go ahead. Take a second to think about it. Give up? They’re all middle children. Well, not the actual Thor. It’s Chris Hemsworth—the actor who plays him. And oddly enough, so is Tom Hiddleston, who plays Loki right beside him. Middle children are often ignored while their parents lavish attention on their older and younger siblings. As a result, many of them seek attention from other sources…and that can push them onto bigger and better things. So if you’re the sibling stuck in the middle of the pecking order, National Middle Child Day is the perfect time to put your stamp on the world. If you’re still hanging on to a collection of vinyl records, you are not alone. While you may catch some grief from family and friends over these dusty old relics from the past, vinyl record sales are on the rise. The largest collection contains more than one million LPs. Fans know they are much more valuable than the CDs they replaced. For audiophiles, there is no better sound than the distinct quality of a classic vintage record, and if you’re a collector you probably know that five of the top ten most expensive vinyls ever produced came from the Beatles. The White Album alone fetched a whopping 790,000 dollars. On National Vinyl Record Day give your records a spin and celebrate a sound that still makes you rock around the clock. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 11th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate desserts and one liners that are da bomb. When something is really great, we say it’s “the bomb.” But back in the day we called a bombe dessert. This molded confection that’s layered with ice cream, fruit and nuts gets its name from its resemblance to a cannonball. These beauties showed up in the French cookbooks of the 1880s, when Europeans went over the top making food look festive. Though it’s unclear if the dome shaped dessert was meant as a threat, it has certainly been a favorite of State dinners and royal banquets for centuries. On National Raspberry Bombe Day try a festive treat that is truly the bomb! The responsibility of being President of the United States isn’t a laughing matter, but some of them have been really funny guys. Or at least able to take a joke. Even Lincoln knew how to get in a quick one-liner. When accused of being a liar, he said, "If I were two-faced, would I be wearing this one?” But few had the quick wit of Ronald Reagan. He once rode horses with Queen Elizabeth II and her horse was a bit…gassy. When the Queen apologized on behalf of her mount, Reagan supposedly replied, “Quite all right, Your Majesty. I thought it was the horse.” On National Presidential Joke Day, have some fun learning about the silly side of our Commanders in Chief. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 10th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a trying sport and a tried and true dessert. Few pastimes have inspired so much anger and frustration as golf. For something so popular, it sure makes people angry. Take, for example, Winston Churchill, who called the sport “…a game whose aim is to hit a very small ball into an even smaller hole, with weapons singularly ill-designed for the purpose.” Even pro golfers aren’t immune. PGA champion Gardner Dickinson lamented: “People say golf is like life, but don’t believe them. Golf is more complicated than that.” So why do we play? Probably because it’s often more about hanging out with friends than the game itself. During National Golf Month, have fun hitting the links and if things don’t pan out, you can always celebrate National Lazy Day instead. The next time you’re camping and spinning up stories around the fire, consider the origin of the s’more. Most believe that it was Alec Barnum that first created the treat in the late 1800s. Not much is known, however, about the entrepreneur that left a sticky trail of myths and legends. Enter Loretta Scott Crew. This leader taught hungry girl scouts how to perfectly toast a marshmallow, and her recipe for s’mores was printed in the 1927 guidebook. Today Trampling and Trailing With The Girl Scouts is still known for this treat, though everyone has their own secret for making the gooey, crispy delight. On National S’mores Day celebrate the dessert that’s become a right of passage and worthy of one more log on the fire. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 9th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate leaders who made a contribution for better or worse. When you vote for a President, the Vice President is part of the package, but originally things were quite different. In our country’s early years, the office went to whomever finished with the second most electoral votes. That was until the election of 1800, when Thomas Jefferson and Aaron Burr tied for second place. The messy outcome led to the passage of the 12th Amendment, which changed the system of voting at the time. Many of our Vice Presidents may have slipped into obscurity but on National Veep Day we celebrate the important office that can strongly affect a presidency. Julius Caesar made many important contributions to Western civilization. But he also set the world of books back by thousands of years. During his siege of Alexandria, he accidentally set fire to the world’s largest library. Another historical figure is at the opposite end of the bibliophile spectrum: Thomas Jefferson. When the United States Library of Congress was burned in 1814, thousands of books were lost, but Thomas Jefferson came to the rescue, providing 6,000 of his own to rebuild the library. And since then, it’s grown to be the largest in the world with more than 38 million volumes, not to mention all the photographs, maps, music, and special collections. On National Book Lovers Day, celebrate your own collection by cracking open a good page turner. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 8th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a well traveled bill and an overzealous fruit. Here in the United States, it’s estimated that one dollar bills exchange hands at least 110 times a year. And because they’re passed around so frequently, they have a shorter lifespan than our larger currency. A one dollar bill lasts only about 6 years, whereas a one hundred dollar bill can last up to 15 years. Most paper would tear or fade from all that use, but here in the United States we have a solution. Our notes are made from an exclusive blend of cotton and linen, which is a closely guarded secret. Due to counterfeiting, the design of larger bills has changed over the years. But the dollar has remained the same for more than fifty years. On National Dollar Day we celebrate the bill that has probably already out traveled you. Backyard vegetable gardens can be difficult to maintain. Carrots, tomatoes, beans…you never know what kind of harvest will come from weeks and months of care and cultivation. One summertime vegetable that’s easy—almost too easy—is the zucchini. This squash seems to grow no matter what the weather or quality of your soil. In fact, one plant can yield up to 10 pounds of fruit, leaving gardeners with more zucchini than is humanly possible to consume. And yes, it’s technically a fruit. If you’re overwhelmed by your zucchini harvest, enjoy National Sneak Some Zucchini Into Your Neighbor’s Porch Day and hope that they’re not celebrating too. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 7th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a moveable feast and the oldest military honor. John Montagu was obsessed with gambling. So much so that he played cards for hours on end, even forgetting at times to eat. Then one day, he devised a meal that could be eaten with one hand. He requested that a servant bring him some meat between two pieces of bread, and thus the Earl of Sandwich created the, well, the sandwich. Since then, this portable meal has become one of the most popular finger foods in the world. And with so many good choices, from a multilayered club to the humble peanut butter and jelly, we decided that you need a whole month to celebrate. During National Sandwich Month, enjoy packing your meal on the go and celebrate the Earl who started it all. Purple Heart Day honors the extraordinary men and women who are of the Military Order of The Purple Heart. George Washington first created the Badge of Merit in 1782, which was awarded to six veterans of the Revolutionary War. The modern day Purple Heart, which bears Washington’s image, was given to General Douglas MacArthur in 1944. MacArthur helped to change the requirements that limit the award to only those wounded or killed in combat. Today it is estimated that the oldest military honor has been bestowed on nearly 1.9 million people since it was created. On Purple Heart Day we thank all those who have dedicated their lives in service to our country. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 6th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate an age old condiment and the quest for perfect flavor. On this day we celebrate one of the oldest condiments in the history of the world. No, it’s not that long-forgotten bottle of ketchup in the back of your fridge. It’s mustard. The ancient Romans ground mustard seeds into a powder which they combined with vinegar to make a paste. As the Roman Empire spread across Europe, so did the love of this condiment. Households during the Middle Ages used a lot of mustard, as did 17th century England, where the modern version was created. And that’s how mustard made its way from ancient Rome to the top of that hotdog you’re about to eat. On National Mustard Day enjoy a classic flavor that never goes out of style. How far would you go to find perfect flavor? For 12 year old Scott Dunton it all began at the 1962 Seattle World’s Fair. With one sip of Triple X Root Beer, Scott tasted heaven and his quest to recreate it began. For the next three decades he chased this dream. Tracking down Mutual Flavors in California, he asked for a recipe that would taste like cream. It took a few tries, but when Scott added caramel he struck gold. The rich, smooth taste has been bottled since 1992. Today Scott’s Old Fashioned Creamy Caramel Root Beer is served at Mr. D'z Diner on Route 66 in a bottomless root beer float. On National Root Beer Float Day, celebrate one boy’s dream to serve up the Holy Grail of perfect flavor. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 5th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate beers and dogs that go the distance. When German immigrants arrived in the United States, they introduced America to lager beers, a traditional German style. So it’s ironic that lagers became popular during World War II at a time when our country hated everything German. American soldiers serving in Europe discovered the brew and loved it. Lagers had lower alcohol content than ales and came in cans, for easy transport. When the soldiers returned home, they brought their taste for the beer, as well as the tradition of drinking it from cans—something that was once frowned upon. On International Beer Day we celebrate our heritage as a cultural melting pot and the small things that never fail to bring us together! Before snowmobiles and airplanes, the best way to get around in snow country was via dog sled. This method of transportation is rare today, but once a year in Alaska, racers and their teams of dogs keep the tradition alive with a race called the Iditarod. Sleds travel from Anchorage to Nome, a journey of nearly 1,000 miles! It takes the team of 16 dogs at least a week to complete this distance. This not only commemorates the role that dogs played in the settlement of Alaska, it defines the saying “work like a dog.” On National Work Like a Dog Day, you may wanna let your pooch curl up on the couch while you do the heavy lifting. I’m Anna Devere and I’m John McClain filling in for Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 4th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate one smart cookie and a bitter beer. Ruth Wakefield ran the Toll House Inn with her husband in Whitman, Massachusetts. Ruth was a renowned baker, but she is best known for adding semisweet chocolate to her butterscotch cookie dough. This recipe became a regional favorite, and during World War II it caused a cookie craze. Soldiers from Massachusetts that were stationed overseas began to receive chocolate chip cookies in care packages from home. Soon Wakefield was inundated with requests for her cookie recipe from all around the globe. Nestle offered her a lifetime supply of chocolate in exchange for it, and to this day the Toll House recipe is printed on every bag of chocolate chips. On National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day celebrate the sweet success of one smart cookie. In the late 1700s, the British Empire spanned the globe, and one of its largest colonies was India. The Brits living there demanded goods from back home which created a significant trade route between the two countries. One of the most popular imports was beer, which didn’t age well when it was shipped to warmer climates. George Hodgson of the Bow Brewery came up with a solution. He brewed a lighter beer, called pale ale, then increased the amount of alcohol and hops in order to prevent spoilage. The downside was that the hops would lose their fruity flavor and produce a bitter taste. And so India Pale Ale was born. Some say this drink is an acquired taste, but on National IPA Day we celebrate beer that really went the distance. I’m Anna Devere and I’m John McClain filling in for Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 3rd, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate protein on the go and Summertime’s juiciest fruit. Nuts have been a healthy snack for thousands of years. The Hanging Gardens of Babylon featured pistachio trees. And the Ancient Greeks believed that hazelnuts could cure baldness. But here in America, the most popular nut is actually a legume. Thanks to the cartoon character known as Mr. Peanut, this snack has enjoyed one of the best ad campaigns of all time. In 1916 young Antonio Gentille submitted his drawing of the character for a contest run by Planters. The company paid him five dollars for his design, but later paid his college tuition, after realizing the value of this icon. Mr. Peanut still appears in Super Bowl ads and on National Grab Some Nuts Day we celebrate this healthy way to get some protein on the go. Summer wouldn’t be the same without a slice of juicy watermelon. Most of us look forward to the season when the round or oval melons can be seen stacked one on top of one another. Unless you’re in Japan. There, the watermelons are square. It’s not some weird mutation—the fruit is intentionally grown this way. When the melons are still small, they are put into square boxes made of tempered glass. As they grow, the fruit takes on the shape of the box. This makes for easier storage and display in grocery stores. But no matter how you stack it, National Watermelon Day is the perfect time to enjoy this refreshing treat. I’m Anna Devere and I’m John McClain filling in for Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 2nd, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate two old school ways to treat the kid in all of us. Any kid who’s spent a rainy afternoon cooped up in the house with a coloring book owes a debt of gratitude to Kate Greenaway. The Victorian-era artist became famous for her work with popular children’s authors of the day. In the late 1800s, she teamed up with the McLaughlin Brothers to put together a book of black and white drawings that would later be known as coloring books. They were initially meant to be used with watercolor paint, but coloring books really took off when paired with their best friend—the crayon. On National Coloring Book Day, celebrate the kid in all of us with the best way to brighten up any day. If you are a fan of the ice cream sandwich, you can thank a pushcart salesman, who invented the treat in 1899. Though his name remains a mystery, it’s believed that this inventor peddled his creation for one penny, in the Bowery neighborhood of New York City. Carts soon popped up everywhere and by 1940, ice cream sandwiches were sold in grocery stores nationwide. Today it is estimated that around 48 sandwiches are consumed every second in the United States alone, and around 50 percent of them are consumed on the Eastern Seaboard. On National Ice Cream Sandwich Day celebrate this classic treat that never goes out of style. I’m Anna Devere and I’m John McClain filling in for Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 1st, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate our gal pals and the other things that make us happy too. While these two redheads were both comedians, their age gap of 22 years made them an unlikely pair. But when Lucille Ball first saw Carol Burnett in an off-Broadway production of Once Upon A Mattress, she had to go backstage and pay her respects to this funny gal. On their very first meeting Lucy told Carol, “Kid, if you need me for anything, give me a call.” And Carol took her up on it when she invited Lucy to be on her show. CBS had given Carol a break by inviting her to do an hour long special, but only if she could land a big name star. Lucy said “yes” and it more than launched Carol’s career, the two became lifelong friends. On National Girlfriends Day celebrate the bffs who have always got your back. Abraham Lincoln said that “Folks are usually about as happy as they make up their minds to be.” What a great reminder as we turn the calendar page to discover that August is Happiness Happens Month. If you believe that happiness is an emotional habit then why not commit to changing your own outlook. They say it takes 21 days to create a new habit and 90 days to make a permanent change. Choose a “glass half full” perspective for the next three weeks and you may just find that Happiness Happens Month lasts all year. I’m Anna Devere and I’m John McClain filling in for Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to July 31st, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the extraordinary deeds of an ordinary breed and a mighty fruit. No one is really sure how the scruffy little dog named Owney came to be at a post office in Albany, NY. He just showed up one day and became a part of the team. People speculate that Owney was attracted to the smell of the leather mail bags, which he even followed onto trucks and trains! Soon he was escorting mail carriers all around the state and the country. At each new location, the workers would add a tag to his collar, marking his travels. Owney collected so many tags that the Postmaster General ordered him a custom harness to wear instead of the collar. The little mutt was given his own special memorial in the Smithsonian Institution for his service to the U.S. Postal Service. On National Mutt Day, celebrate the ordinary breeds that find a special place in our hearts. While the Aztecs knew the power of the mighty green avocado, it took a modern company to put this fruit on the map. Model Meals founded National Avocado Day in 2017 and since then we have discovered lots of reasons to celebrate. For one, avocados target insulin resistance with heart healthy fats. They also fight Alzheimers with their Omega 3 fatty acids. Another avocado superpower is preventing and repairing damage with its source of Vitamins C, E and K. Best of all avocados taste great in guacamole, sliced over a salad and topping off a burger or chicken sandwich. And if you’re not a huge fan, you can still celebrate National Avocado Day by slipping some into a smoothie. I’m Anna Devere and I’m John McClain filling in for Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to July 30th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate healthy cheesecake and a juicy Summer fruit. Family recipes often get passed down through several generations before anyone thinks to write them down. According to historical records, the Ancient Greeks invented cheesecake over 4,000 years ago. It was considered a healthy food that was a good source of energy. So much so that Olympic athletes would eat it before competitions. Cheesecake was even served as a wedding cake. But no one thought to write out the recipe until the Greek author Atheneaus did so in the year 230 CE. Though it’s not the same style of cake we know today, you can still find it online and give it a try. On National Cheesecake Day, celebrate with your own family recipe and don’t forget to share! Georgia is known as the Peachtree State, but it’s not the biggest producer of peaches in the United States. That distinction goes to California, which grows over 468,000 tons of the fruit each year. Nearly 14,000 times as much as Georgia. However, the southern state prides itself on producing the highest quality peaches anywhere. Peach County, Georgia is the unofficial peach capital of the world, and holds the world record for the biggest peach cobbler ever made. It used 75 gallons of peaches plus 150 pounds each of flour and sugar. During National Peach Month, celebrate this juicy stone fruit that’s just as good on its own as it is in cobblers and jams. I’m Anna Devere and I’m John McClain filling in for Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to July 29th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a perfect pucker and a bar food favorite. Lipstick has sparked some controversy throughout the ages, and it may surprise you to learn who was on each side of the argument. George Washington himself wore lip rouge. Winston Churchill believed that lip color boosted morale in an excellent way. On the other hand Queen Victoria thought it was impolite to color your lips and in the 1770s, British Parliament banned lipstick, calling it a devilish attempt to trick men into marriage. Some people associated lipstick with witchcraft and it could be because it contained poisonous additives. Today our lips are liberated with multiple shades from shocking red to barely pink. On National Lipstick Day, celebrate with your signature shade. Sometime in 1964, the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, NY received too many chicken wings from their supplier. Pub owner Teressa Bellissimo wasn’t sure what to do with them, until her son and his friends showed up hungry. Teressa deep fried the wings and served them with a spicy sauce, in the hopes of using up the surplus wings. The guys loved them so much that chicken wings became a staple on the Anchor Bar menu ever since. Oh…and the bleu cheese dressing and celery? Teressa claimed she didn’t have anything else to serve and added them to the plate. I don’t know about you but I’m excited that it’s National Chicken Wing Day. I’m Anna Devere and John McClain filling in for Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to July 28th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate savoring the sweet life and a Summer oasis. We can all thank the Mayans and Aztecs for bringing us drinking chocolate, but today we celebrate the sweet candy bars that most of us crave. It was a Dutch chemist who invented the process of separating cocoa butter from cacao in the early 1800s. But in 1875 when Daniel Peter added powdered milk to chocolate liquor, the milk chocolate lovers rejoiced. Here in North America a whopping 71 percent of us prefer milk chocolate over dark. Sure we know that dark chocolate counts as a health-food, but the sweeter milk chocolate has a smooth way of winning us over. Companies such as Hershey's make out either way, but on National Milk Chocolate Day we can all celebrate the sweet side of this debate. About midway between Los Angeles and Las Vegas, in the middle of the Mojave Desert, sits a small abandoned body of water called Lake Dolores. It doesn’t look like much now, but it was once home to one of America’s first water parks. Bob Byers built the area around the lake as a place for camping, then over the years added waterslides. Throughout the early ‘70s and ‘80s, Lake Dolores was one of the most popular tourist attractions in Southern California. Although many of the rides—including a stand-up waterslide—seem dangerous by today’s standards, Byer’s creation helped pave the way for more elaborate parks. On National Waterpark Day, celebrate by taking the plunge on a thrill seeker’s ride or cooling off in the lazy river. I’m Anna Devere and I’m John McClain filling in for Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to July 27th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the “essence of smooth” with a sweet dessert and a dram of class. If someone offered you a dish called “burnt cream” you’d most likely say no thanks. But say it in French and you get the much more appealing “crème brûlée.” It starts off with cream that is steeped with vanilla, sugar and egg yolks that all end up in a warm bath that is baked to perfection in the oven. With a crisp, burnt sugar shell, this creamy custard has been an elegant finish to any meal since 1691. The English claim they created this dish in the 15th century calling it Cambridge Cream. And the Spanish claim they have been serving flan as far back as the 5th century. But today we are celebrating the “essence of smooth” with National Crème Brûlée Day. Whiskeys get their distinctive flavor from the distillation process or the type of barrels in which they’re aged. In the case of Scotch whiskey the flavor comes from peat. Peat gives Scotch its unique smoky flavor and comes from the bogs and marshes around the Scottish countryside. The level of smokiness depends on the time the barley grain is exposed to peat smoke during the 30 hours it dries before being distilled. Meant to be sipped from a glass or even paired with a fine cigar, good Scotch should be savored. On National Scotch Day, celebrate by pouring yourself a dram of this sip of class. I’m Anna Devere and I’m John McClain filling in for Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to July 26th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a courtly carb and risking it all. In the 17th Century an Austrian baker presented the King of Poland with a new creation. Based on the king’s love of horses, the baker made a circular, doughy bread shaped like a stirrup, or “boogel.” Rumor has it that bagels have been a favorite in Poland ever since. And when Polish immigrants set up bakeries in New York’s Lower East Side, people in the United States started celebrating bagels with a generous schmear of cream cheese. Thanks to the Lender family, bagels rolled out across the nation with their automated process for manufacturing, freezing and shipping our favorite kosher carb. On National Bagelfest Day, stop by your local bakery or coffee shop and enjoy a breakfast fit for a king. Most of us take a leap of fate when we want to advance our careers or relationships. Alexander the Great took a risk that changed the course of Western civilization. In a major battle against the mighty Persian Empire, Alexander’s army was outnumbered nearly 5 to 1. If his troops were defeated, the Persians would spread their influence across the Mediterranean and make their culture the dominant force in the world. Against the advice of his generals, Alexander led his army straight into the Persian ranks…and somehow he came out on top. Big risks, big rewards. On National All Or Nothing Day, you may not be shaping the world, but as Yoda says, “Do or do not, there is no try.” I’m Anna Devere and I’m John McClain filling in for Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to July 25th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a dynamic duo and the ride that proves what comes around goes around. According to Greek Mythology, Aristaeus was the god of olive-growing, bee-keeping, and…most importantly…cheese-making. To add to his repertoire, he asked his uncle to teach him how to make beer and wine. And as far as teachers go, Aristaeus couldn’t ask for a better one. Because his uncle, Dionysus was also the god of wine. We can’t be sure, but this was likely the beginning of one of history’s greatest pairings: Wine and cheese. Whether it’s port and gorgonzola or chardonnay and cheddar, these two things were made for one another. On National Wine And Cheese Day, enjoy a delicious pair courtesy of the Olympians. No amusement park would be complete without a classic roller coaster or merry-go-round. But the oldest of these rides was first depicted in 500 AD during the Byzantine Empire. Baskets that carried a rider were suspended from a central pole and whirled around in a circle. The more modern carousel was inspired by the sport of jousting, but not the dangerous medieval kind. Apparently in the 12th century knights made a game of riding in a circle and tossing a glass ball filled with perfume at one another. This required great skill and horsemanship to avoid dropping the ball, which would prove a shameful and smelly defeat. On National Merry-Go-Round Day, celebrate a classic ride that’s been around the block. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to July 24th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate legends of the still and the sky. Tequila dates back to the 16th century when Cortez and his Spanish conquistadors arrived in North America. While they didn’t think much of the fermented mezcal wine, the Spanish introduced the copper still and a legendary improvement was forged. Today the production of tequila is protected by law in Mexico and must be produced in the town for which it is named in the State of Jalisco. While a few other regions can claim the same rights, all other agave based spirits are called mezcal. However you serve up National Tequila Day, be sure to celebrate responsibly. At age 10, Amelia Mary Earhart knew she wanted to fly an airplane. While women in her day were not supposed to do such things, this adventurous tomboy saved up and bought a bright yellow biplane called The Canary. From there, she blazed a trail across the sky. Charles Lindbergh was the first to complete a solo flight across the Atlantic, but Earhart was the first woman to achieve this mission four years later. Her flight was fraught with complications and after more than 14 hours she landed in Derry, Ireland. This earned her the United States Distinguished Flying Cross. Throughout her life, Earhart broke many records and her disappearance in 1937 while circumnavigating the globe remains a tragic mystery. On National Amelia Earhart Day, celebrate this pioneer who inspired the world with her love of aviation. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to July 23rd, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the spirit that won the old West and an ice cream that stands out from the crowd. Many of us have wondered what it would be like to completely reinvent ourselves. In the late 1800s, all it took was to move to the American West. Take for example John Henry Holliday. He came from a respectable family in Georgia and studied dentistry in Philadelphia. After a few years, he moved his practice to Dallas, Texas. But then John gave up dentistry and became a gambler…and a gunfighter. The legend we now know as Doc Holliday earned a reputation as a man not to be messed with, especially after joining up with the famous lawman Wyatt Earp. Cowboys became a symbol of the American West because of men like these. On National Day of the Cowboy we celebrate the spirit that helped build our Nation. The International Ice Cream Association has determined that 29 percent of us prefer vanilla over any other flavor. You may be surprised to learn that chocolate is preferred by only 9 percent. And there was a time when the two flavors were inseparable. In the Aztec culture vanilla was added to chocolate drinks for flavor. Chocolate and its counterpart were then imported to Europe, but it took until the 17th Century to separate them. An apothecary named Hugh Morgan created chocolate free treats for Queen Elizabeth I, and vanilla stood on its own at last becoming wildly popular in France. In the 1780s the American Minister in Paris took great interest in this exotic taste. This was of course Thomas Jefferson. On National Vanilla Ice Cream Day, celebrate the flavor that stands out from the crowd. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to July 22nd, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate paying your dues and taking it easy. The small town of Hamelin, Germany found itself overrun by rats. One day a man arrived in Hamelin wearing brightly colored clothes and playing a flute. He told the townspeople that he could get rid of the vermin that plagued their homes. His flute music not only hypnotized the rats, they followed him out of town. But when the man returned to collect his payment, the people refused to give him any money. So he played his flute once more, and all the town’s children followed him away. And for some strange reason the people of Hamelin celebrate this story every year with festivals and reenactments. On National Rat Catcher’s Day you can celebrate by settling any unpaid debts or maybe just try tipping the exterminator. Summertime is all about the simple life. And there’s no better way to catch some z’s than by swinging from trees in a hammock. Dating back thousands of years, the sling bed was used in Central America to protect people from dirt and bugs. European explorers of the 17th Century discovered its comfortable convenience. And naval ships used them to save space in close quarters. Today, backpackers still enjoy a good night’s sleep in this portable bed that doesn’t weigh them down. No matter where you’re headed this Summer, from the adventurous trek to a staycation in the yard, your siesta is better when you’re swinging in the breeze. On National Hammock Day, celebrate the easiest way to rock yourself to sleep. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to July 21st, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate making a difference and the good things that come in small packages. Project Harmony founded National Be Someone Day to help end child abuse and bring communities together through education and awareness. They remind us that it only takes a few seconds to make a difference in a child’s life and by taking the pledge to report what we see, the results can last a lifetime. Today there are so many worthwhile organizations that help children, and if you feel compelled to “be someone” for a child in need, check out all the great things happening in your own community. If your taste for junk food needs some inspiration it might be time for a taste bud vacation. Packaged foods in one form or another took off in the 1800s when the process became commercial. While snacks that come in cans, bottles and cellophane are not necessarily more appealing, the added sugar, salt and fat are downright addicting. Enjoy a guilt free excursion today with a virtual tour of snacks from around the globe. Our Aussie friends are celebrating National Lamington Day with sponge cake squares covered in chocolate and coconut. In Canada the favorite messy snack is poutine or French fries covered in cheese and gravy. And across the pond there are Jaffa Cakes and crepes. You may not be able to hop a plane for all your cravings, but on National Junk Food Day, you can certainly appreciate the convenience of your hometown favorites. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to July 20th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a sweet ending and a royal dog. One of the staples of Chinese takeout didn’t come from China at all, but rather from Japan. In the late 1800s, Japanese bakers began making crackers with small notes inside. Japanese immigrants to America opened up Chinese restaurants to capitalize on the growing popularity of Chinese food. They served these fortune cookies as dessert and the treats caught on. During World War II, Chinese immigrants to the United States opened more restaurants and kept the tradition of fortune cookies alive. Now, a takeout meal of General Tso’s Chicken wouldn’t be complete without a fortune. On National Fortune Cookie Day, celebrate this sweet ending to any good meal. When King George VI visited the United States in 1939, FDR hosted him at his Hyde Park estate. In the weeks prior to the event word got out that an American picnic featuring hot dogs would be served to the English King and Queen rather than a fancy state dinner. This news caused such a stir that First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt had to address it. And while the queen was heard to say, How do you eat this? as she had never had a hot dog before, the king loved them so much that he asked for seconds. On National Hot Dog Day, fire up the grill and enjoy this summertime favorite fit for a king and queen. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to July 19th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate friendly competition and cooling off. Today is National Words With Friends Day and I have a few choice words for you guys! Marlo: Don’t say french fries. John: Marlo hates fries! Anna: That is so yesterday’s news! I had my seasoned fries on a Friday and I am just glad Marlo came to his senses. Anyway this game looks really fun, it’s like a scrabble game you can play with your friends in an app form. On National Words With Friends Day enjoy a friendly spar with your favorite nerds. Some drinks are synonymous with tropical vacations, but the daiquiri is named after a small mining town in Santiago de Cuba. During the Spanish American War, workers at a mine in Daiquiri would gather to cool off at the end of a long day’s work. At a place called the Venus bar their American supervisor, Jennings Cox came up with the drink made from rum, lime juice, and sugar. But when Ernest Hemmingway first encountered the daiquiri, he ordered another without the sugar and double the rum. This drink became known as the Papa Doble. While he usually drank whiskey, Hemingway bragged that he could drink 17 daiquiris without getting a hangover. On National Daiquiri Day, celebrate responsibly with the drink that still tastes good at the end of a long, hot day. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to July 18th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a splurge from the sea and our obsession with sweet tart flavor. Caviar is a delicacy that is typically served at only the most elegant of events, being that it’s so expensive. Beluga caviar is widely considered to be the best that money can buy, but it might as well be plain old scrambled eggs when compared to almas caviar. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, this delicacy isn’t just the priciest caviar in the world, it’s the most expensive FOOD in the world. Period. 1 pound of it can cost up to $17,000! It’s produced from the eggs of the endangered albino sturgeon, which can only be found near Iran, in the southern part of the Caspian Sea. On National Caviar Day, celebrate this extravagant morsel. The history of sweet tart candies goes back to the 19th century, and it began with the process of candy making itself. Hard candy manufacturing back then relied on acid to convert cane sugar into glucose to resist crystallization. Vinegar did the trick and from then on our mouths naturally craved this sweet tart combination. Then along came the Lemonhead in 1962 which used citric acid to power our pucker and a new kind of arms race was born. Since then we have raised the bar ever higher with kids demanding a mouth punishing experience that seemed to culminate with the 1993 impact of the Mega Warhead. On National Sour Candy Day, pucker up anyway you please and leave the fear factor kind to the kids. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to July 17th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate emotional icons and a dessert that makes us cheer. Like it or not, our teenagers are influencers. That’s why a Japanese programmer created emoticons in 1990 to appeal to teens. When Apple released the first iPhone in 2007, they added the emoji keyboard to grab the attention of the Japanese market. But the picture words took off around the globe. Who knew that a simple text could become so misinterpreted out of context? Emojis to the rescue. They say a picture is worth a thousand words, and today there are over 1800 of them listed on emojipedia.org. That’s nearly 2 million ways to bridge the generation gap. On World Emoji Day celebrate the cute little characters who have taken on a life of their own! For as long as folks have been enjoying ice cream, we bet they’ve been letting out a scream. In Ancient Persia the dessert was made with snow. Hopefully no one started an avalanche by screaming from a mountain peak. The first use of ice and salt to freeze ice cream was discovered in China in 697 AD. From there the Italians made sorbet in 1642. Here in the United States, one of the first ice cream recipes can be traced to Thomas Jefferson. A copy of his handwritten instructions for old fashioned vanilla are preserved in the Library of Congress. And some shops around the country still serve his recipe to this day. In 1984 Ronald Regan declared July to be National Ice Cream Month, and on National Ice Cream Day, we celebrate the treat that always inspires a cheer. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to July 16th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate coloring outside the lines and a Southern staple. Before the invention of the printing press, books were copied by hand. This tedious work was carried out by monks, who labored day and night to replicate the pages. To break up the routine, some monks began doodling in the margins of the books. They drew everything from flowers and dragons to rabbits with swords. While the illustrations did not always come from the text, the eye catching watercolors brought the work to life. Today, illuminated manuscripts are priceless. So the next time your toddler draws in their books, remember that today’s crimes may be tomorrow’s treasures. Celebrate World Water Color Month with a blank book to doodle in. You might find a great way to beat boredom for yourself! Corn was an important part of Native American culture, but Europeans knew nothing of it until the 15th Century. When settlers of the New World learned how to prepare corn from Native Americans, they included this new ingredient in traditional recipes, creating foods like cornbread. In the Southern United States, corn was used to make two regional favorites, which are often confused with one another. The johnnycake is made with cornmeal and is prepared like a pancake. Corn fritters are made with corn kernels in the batter to form a dough patty that is fried in oil. This delicious Southern treat can be served as savory or sweet, or as a meal on its own. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to July 15th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate Triple Crown winners and super sour sweets. For a horse to win the Triple Crown, they must win 3 big races—the Belmont Stakes, the Kentucky Derby, and the Preakness. And in the 100-year history of American horse racing, only 13 horses have accomplished this feat. But none of them could compare to Secretariat. The speeds he posted for each Triple Crown race are records that stand to this day. The longest race of the series, the Belmont Stakes, is 1.5 miles. Secretariat ran it in 2 minutes, 25 seconds…an average speed of 30 mph and finished 31 lengths ahead of the next horse. On National I Love Horses Day, we celebrate all our equine friends and the special bond they share with humans. In 1922, German candy maker Hans Reigel invented gummy candy. Nearly 60 years later, gummy bears were sold in the United States and became an instant hit. By the 1980s the Trolli company was importing 40 tons of the candy a day to North America. After seeing the popularity of these sweet little bears, Trolli took the idea in a different direction with the gummi worm. The idea behind this new candy was simple, kids love candy as much as they like gross stuff. Gummi worms are not only delicious, they also gross out parents. And when you add super sour flavors, you kick up the ick factor even more. On National Gummi Worm Day, sneak some worms into your chocolate pudding. After all, the kid in all of us deserves to celebrate. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to July 14th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a classic comfort food and the spirit of class. Macaroni and cheese has become a staple food for kids everywhere. If you’re a parent, you’re probably sick of being asked to make this dish, but you gotta know you’re not alone. Kraft sells one million boxes of mac and cheese. Per day. And Canada buys almost 24% of that total. Up there, it’s referred to as Kraft Dinner and some have unofficially called it the country’s national meal. It’s also popular to put ketchup on it, but don’t give your kids any ideas. On National Mac & Cheese Day, whip up a bowl of this classic comfort food, though it may not feel different from any other day, still a celebration is a celebration, right? Everything about the orange flavored liqueur known as Grand Marnier signifies class, elegance and distinction. Made from Caribbean oranges, fine cognac and sugar, this spirit is aged to perfection for nearly 10 years. Since its debut in 1880 the process has changed very little. It first appeared at the Ritz Hotel in Paris and sailed aboard the RMS Titanic. To this day a rescued bottle is found in the Titanic Museum. It was more recently served to Queen Elizabeth II for her Golden Jubilee and today a new bottle is purchased every two seconds. On National Grand Marnier Day, celebrate the spirit that evokes class in everything from cocktails to desserts. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to July 13th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate almost everyone’s favorite veggie and their rightful place in history. Fries are pretty much everyone’s favorite vegetable, but depending on where you live they may be called something else. The recipe for French fried potatoes first appeared in an English cookbook in 1856, but some believe the name became popular during World War I. When American soldiers discovered the fried potatoes served in French speaking Belgium, the nickname took hold. Legend has it that potatoes were first fried in Belgium in 1690 during a particularly cold winter. When the river froze and people couldn’t get to their supply of fish they cooked up potato slivers instead. And today no one would argue with making fries a meal. On National French Fry Day serve them with chili or cheese, ketchup or mayo or dare to go bare with some crave worthy seasoned fries. Anna: I can’t stand the suspense. Marlo are you moving Fry Day to Friday, should we even be celebrating fries today?! John, what’s the count on that petition? John: Not sure, but enough people have done their civic duty and voted so now it’s truly up to Marlo. Anna: There’s still time to visit frydaytoFriday.com to sign up and get a coupon for free fries. They’re not closing it out till later today. Anna: How does this not make sense to you Marlo? Think of all the happy, hard working people who will be celebrating for years to come with another reason to say TGI Fryday! This is a historical moment. I hope you do the right thing. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to July 12th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate satisfying your sweet tooth and playing with your food. Pecan pie has been a Southern favorite since the 1800s, though its origins are a bit of a mystery. It all began with a simple custard of sugar, eggs, nuts, sweet milk and flour in a recipe that was published as Texas Pecan Pie. A version of this pie can be traced to Louisiana in the early 1800s but the Texas version was published in 1897 and folks began copying it ever since. Then in the 1930s the wife of an executive at Karo syrup company was said to have discovered a new use for corn syrup. She claimed to be the creator of the recipe that is now printed on every bottle of Karo syrup. It might not be an actual conspiracy but on National Pecan Pie Day go ahead and celebrate your favorite recipe that sums up the phrase, as sweet as pie. Jello has been a popular dessert with families everywhere. What you may not know is that Jello also played a part in one of the most beloved movies of all time. In the Wizard of Oz, Dorothy and friends arrive at the Emerald City and meet the Horse of a Different Color. Because all film effects were practical at the time, the horse needed to be colored for each shot. Paint wasn’t a good choice because it would hurt the animal. But then someone came up with the idea to make a paste out of Jello powder and covered the horse’s body. This safe and easy solution was perfect—except for the fact that the horse kept licking it off between takes. On Eat Your Jello Day, it’s okay to celebrate by playing with your food! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to July 11th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the gold standard of Summer fruits and a convenient Summer sip. Some people look forward to crops that are seasonal, and if you’re a fan of cherries then you’re most likely celebrating this one today. Named after Mount Rainier, this golden variety is a cross between Bing and Van cherries. Harry Fogle developed them at Washington State University in 1952 and folks have been gobbling them up ever since. The creamy yellow fruit is milder and more delicate than its bright red cousin and costs significantly more because it must be harvested by hand. About one third of the crops are also eaten by birds. But who can blame them! On National Rainier Cherry Day, celebrate the season’s gold standard with this prized Summer beauty! The granddaddy of all convenience stores got its start as an offshoot of Southland Ice Company. In 1927, the store that would become 7-Eleven opened its doors in Dallas, Texas. The idea was to sell eggs, milk, and bread, which would allow shoppers to avoid grocery stores if they only needed these food staples. By the late 1940s, the store set its hours as 7am to 11pm, giving it the name we all know today. Then in the 1960s, 7-Eleven changed its hours again—to 24-hours a day. Since then, this franchise has opened over 70,000 stores around the world, much to the delight of late-night snackers everywhere. On National 7-Eleven Day, celebrate convenience and the perfect Summer escape... the Slurpee. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to July 10th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate picture perfect pets and pineapples in paradise. When it comes to Instagram petfluencers, there are only a few animals in the same league as Nala Cat. And yes, a “petfluencer” is a real thing. With approximately 4.4 million followers, Nala Cat is the most famous feline on Instagram and possibly in the world. This adorable gray, Siamese-Persian mix with gorgeous blue eyes has captured the hearts of Social Media fans around the globe. But before she was a celebrity, Nala was a lonely kitten sitting in a shelter waiting for her forever home. On National Kitten Day celebrate your own future star, though you might want to honor their wishes for remaining purrfectly anonymous. The number one song from the 1970s is also today’s celebration drink, the pina colada. In the song, Rupert Holmes describes the story of a man who answers a lonely hearts classified ad, only to discover that his wife was the woman who placed it. The strange part is that the original lyrics began with, “If you like Humphrey Bogart and getting caught in the rain.” Holmes changed his lyrics at the last minute because he wanted to describe the woman’s longing for escape. He decided that the pina colada was the ultimate, island getaway. The other strange part is that the song is actually true except Holmes doesn’t like the drink. You don’t have to get caught in the rain to celebrate National Pina Colada Day, just pour yourself a vacation in a glass. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to July 9th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today We celebrate a classic sugar rush and cars that make our hearts beat faster. It's believed that sugar cookies originated in the mid 1700s in Nazareth, Pennsylvania when German Protestant settlers created a round, crumbly butter cookie known as the Nazareth Cookie. During the Victorian era people thought that spices would overly excite children and thus tea cookies were made purposefully plain. They evolved into the perfect medium for shaping elaborate Christmas ornaments. But starting in the 1930s, baking soda and vanilla were added and sugar cookies disappeared before they could be hung. Today both young and old enjoy a good sugar rush, and the more ornate the better! On National Sugar Cookie Day, bake up a batch of the treats that make any day a holiday. The 1933 Chicago World's Fair was billed as a Century of Progress Exposition. And one car was put to the test in a gladiator arena to demonstrate its safety: the 1934 Chrysler Airflow. This classic beauty thrilled a live audience with a stage life and death challenge. The track was watered down to create hydroplane danger. A camera crew was positioned dead center, at the end of this hazard and with their cameras rolling, the whole world watched as the hydraulic brakes and Goodyear tires pit man against machine. And with true dramatic flair, this champion stopped mere inches from the humans. On Collector Car Appreciation Day, you can view these yesteryear champions in places like Dunton Motors on Route 66.
I'm Anna Devere, and I'm Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to July 8th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate mighty fruits and staying cool. They say good things come in small packages and this is especially true of blueberries. Not only are they a popular fruit, blueberries are one of the healthiest things you can eat. This superfood provides more antioxidants than almost any other fruit or vegetable, and has been linked to reducing cholesterol. And while you could go on and on, the fact is blueberries are just plain delicious. There’s a reason why these juicy berries get a whole month of celebration. You don’t hear people getting excited about broccoli season. During National Blueberry Month check your local farmer’s market for this super snack or better yet, find a patch and pick your own. Flavored sugar water in a plastic tube hardly sounds like a crowd pleaser. But on a hot summer day, there are few things better than a freezer pop. These frozen treats have been around since the 1960s and are a staple for kids around the world who wanna stay cool. Fla-Vor-Ice is the most popular brand, but you may also know them as Otter Pops, Freezies, or even Zooper Doopers. And if you happen to live down under you probably don’t celebrate your Zooper Doopers till December, when it’s Summertime in Australia. In fact you might even leave a few out for Santa. The rest of us are keeping it cool by celebrating National Freezer Pop Day in July I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to July 7th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a Founding Father’s favorite and the old watering hole. Thomas Jefferson was a true renaissance man. The third United States President completed the Louisiana Purchase, founded the University of Virginia, and even invented the swivel chair. But one thing you may not know is that Jefferson introduced us to macaroni and cheese. He first tasted the dish while visiting France. Once Jefferson got home, he experimented with the recipe to get it just right. Unfortunately, not everyone gave his mac and cheese a thumbs up. Perhaps it was not the best dish to serve at a State dinner, but today folks give him credit for the popularity of the dish. On National Macaroni Day we celebrate this favorite comfort food and the Founding Father who stuck a feather in his hat and called it macaroni. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, dive bars got their name because of their location. Rather than their upscale cousins, these bars were set in the cellars and basements below restaurants. They gave drinkers a place to “dive” below street level and avoid the world for a bit. Since then, the term “dive bar” has evolved to mean any local bar that doesn’t put too much effort into the ambience. They’re just places to stop, relax, have a drink and chat with friends. On National Dive Bar Day celebrate your favorite watering hole, which might be in your own basement. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to July 6th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate rolling out the good stuff and not getting fried over chicken. Before it was a delicacy, sushi was a staple food in the diets of poor fishermen. In the days before refrigeration, people discovered that they could preserve the fish by packing it in fermented rice. But unlike modern sushi, the rice was not eaten, as it was only meant to keep the fish from spoiling. Eventually, rice vinegar replaced the fermented rice. Since then, sushi has transformed into a delicacy, with many variations. But none has the unique flair of the hand roll. It uses the same ingredients as other rolls but hand rolls are not cut into pieces and they are meant to be eaten as soon as they are served. On National Hand Roll Day, try something new at your favorite sushi place and be sure to say, kanpai! People are often passionate about their favorite foods, but it’s safe to say, never quite like this. Colonel Sanders was making a name for himself in the early 1930s in Kentucky. He owned a Shell gas station and set up a cafe nearby to serve his now-famous fried chicken to drivers who passed through town. Everyone seemed to love it, except for Matt Stewart, the owner of a Standard Oil gas station in the area. Stewart began painting over advertisements for the restaurant and Sanders went to confront him, which led to a gunfight. All over fried chicken. On National Fried Chicken Day, there’s no need to lose your head over this all American favorite. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to July 5th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate making a splash and plain and simple treats. You may find it ironic that the guy who made graham crackers plain on purpose also preached against decadent desserts. Reverend Graham imagined the slightly sweetened cracker as a health food with whole wheat graham flour and added bran. The Presbyterian minister developed his cracker as part of the Graham Diet to curb sinful cravings. Little did he know that he had built the very foundation for cheesecakes and s’mores and other wicked good desserts. On National Graham Cracker Day give in to some guilty pleasures or celebrate responsibly with a simple glass of milk. In July of 1946, the United States tested a nuclear device at the Bikini Atoll in the South Pacific. The military operation caused quite a stir around the world. However, the truly explosive event from that week occurred a few days later when fashion designer Louis Réard debuted his newest creation, named after the tests—the bikini. To say that this two-piece women’s bathing suit caused a stir is a massive understatement. Several U.S. states banned women from wearing bikinis in public. Eventually, the outrage died down and today, you can find bikinis wherever there’s a beach or a pool. On National Bikini Day, chill out by feeling happy in the skin you’re in. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to July 4th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate slow cooking by day and lighting up the night. While Independence Day is celebrated across the country today, one town holds the record for the longest running parade. Since 1785, Bristol, Rhode Island has boasted this unbroken tradition, with nearly 200,000 attendees from all over the world. The festivities begin on Flag Day or June 14th with soapbox races and outdoor concerts that continue throughout the month of June. This culminates on July 4th with the parade that commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Independence. From just about anywhere today you can see spectacular displays of fireworks and attend festivals and parades in your own neighborhood. No matter how you celebrate, Independence Day is a time to cherish freedom and to honor those who sacrificed to build our great Nation. Fireworks may take center stage tonight, but most of us celebrate with a barbecue. Technically what most of us do is grilling, that is cooking meat over a fire. Barbecue is cooking meat slowly over indirect heat or in a smoker. This tradition started in the American South, where farmers would try to use every bit of meat they could from the pigs they had raised. Some of the meat, such as between the ribs, was pretty tough to eat. But they found that cooking ribs slowly over indirect heat made the meat tender and succulent. The tastiest of these come from the belly, and are called spareribs. Today while we celebrate our Nation’s birthday we also enjoy a food that is uniquely American on National Barbecued Spareribs Day. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to July 3rd, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate having the last laugh and slaying superstition. Sometimes a wisecrack can pay off big. For Chubby and Bessie Woodman it all started on July 3, 1916 in Essex, Massachusetts. The Woodmans sold groceries, fresh clams and potato chips from a small roadside stand. On this particular day, business was slow and a wise cracking fisherman suggested they fry up some clams. What started as a joke got the Woodmans thinking. Their homemade chips were already good, so they shucked a few clams, tried out different batters and the very next day they enjoyed the last laugh. The fried clams were an instant hit. And six generations later you can still visit Woodman's for this New England favorite. On National Fried Clam Day celebrate a bright idea worth more than a few clams. The Greek philosopher Pythagoras, who was also known as the father of geometry, was a strict vegetarian. He refused, however, to eat beans, which is the staple of most vegetable-based diets. The reason was based on superstition. He believed that beans, fava beans in particular, contained the souls of the dead. And he was so freaked out by beans that he wouldn’t touch them or walk through a bean field. And this was ultimately his downfall. Legend has it that Pythagoras was fleeing from soldiers when he came across a field of fava bean plants. Rather than run across to escape, he stopped in his tracks and was killed. On National Eat Your Beans Day, don’t be afraid to consume some legumes! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to July 2nd, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a special sip and doggone good bite. If you enjoy the taste of licorice, then you’re in for a treat. The anise plant is part of the carrot family and is primarily used in licorice-flavored sweets and baking. But it’s also used to make a popular Mediterranean drink known as anisette. This liqueur is known by different names depending on where you are. In Spain, it’s anís. In France, they have pastis. And the Greeks call it ouzo. Italians call it Sambuca and consider it a digestive aid, which they drink after dinner by adding a few drops to espresso. On National Anisette Day, take a tour of the exotic with a drop or two that makes any meal go down smoother. If you happen to be in Coney Island, New York this week, be sure to visit Nathans for the International Hot Dog eating contest. You will want to get there early as this event draws a crowd from around the globe. The contestants are announced by an old-time carnival barker as if they are prizefighters. And the champion to beat is Joey Chestnut. This man from Kentucky holds the record for eating 74 hotdogs in just 10 minutes. You still have two days left to train for this event, though you might not like this insider tip. Most winners have to dip them in water first in order to gobble them faster. Why not celebrate National Hot Dog Month one dog at a time, with some good old mustard and onions? I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to July 1st, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate special deliveries come rain or shine. The United States issued its first postage stamps on July 1, 1847. They were not, however, the first of their kind. In the United Kingdom, the Penny Black stamp attempted to fix a broken system. Before then, mail recipients were good at dodging payment for this service. Here in America, a letter could be mailed without prepayment until 1855. Despite new regulations, people continued to take advantage of a system that charged only 15 cents for an 11-pound package. The strangest of these was a small baby that was delivered to his grandmother who lived a few miles away. Even the stork couldn’t compete with those prices! On National U.S. Postage Stamp Day celebrate a valuable service that still delivers come rain or shine. “Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night stays these couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds.” Everyone knows this is the motto for the United States Postal Service. Except…it isn’t. The Postal Service doesn’t actually have a motto. So where did this well-known phrase come from? It was written by Herodotus around 500 BCE to describe the postal carriers of his time. When the New York City Post Office opened in 1914, one of the designers liked the quote and had it engraved into the cornerstone. Today is National Postal Worker Day, when we celebrate the men and women who make sure all our letters and packages find their way to us. Except for the bills. We don’t mind if those get lost. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to June 30th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a show that’s outta this world and a rocket that keeps us cool here on Earth. The Comet Swift-Tuttle is one of the largest extra-planetary objects in the solar system. Each year, this giant ball of ice and rock gives the people of Earth quite a show. Debris from the comet’s long tail plunges into our atmosphere at 37 miles per second and burns up. This creates spectacular meteor showers known as the Perseids, which are visible from late July through August. On nights when the moon isn’t as bright, sky watchers can see anywhere from 25-100 meteors per hour. But the Perseids aren’t the only show in town. On National Meteor Watch Day, peel yourself away from your phone or TV and look to the skies for some out of this world entertainment. Doc Abernathy and James Merrit of Kansas City, MO were supposedly on a road trip when they came up with the idea for the bomb pop. It was 1955, during the height of the Cold War, when these two were inspired by a patriotic theme. Today the red, white and blue trio of cherry, lemon and blue raspberry still appeals to the kid in all of us. If you remember scrambling for change at the sound of music from the ice cream truck turning down your street, you'll remember your first bomb pop. Some original popsicle flavors have been retired, but the bomb pop is still the best way to stay cool on any given day in Summer. On National Bomb Pop Day, celebrate staying frosty with this iconic blast from the past. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to June 29th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate capturing the moment and a breakfast favorite that inspired a shoe. In 1838, Louis Daguerre set up his camera near the Boulevard du Temple in Paris. Then he took a picture. Today we are used to instant photos. Touch the button on your phone or camera and the picture is taken. But for Daguerre, the exposure time was nearly 10 minutes. This meant that if the subject wasn’t standing perfectly still it wouldn’t appear in the frame. For this reason, the busy Paris streets look abandoned in the photo. Except for one solitary figure in the lower left-hand corner: a man getting his boots shined. And this is the very first image of a human being caught on camera. On National Camera Day, be thankful that technology can now capture the moment. The waffle iron got its start in the Low Countries of the 14th century. These early metal plates heated over an open flame pressed images such as a coat of arms into batter. Something about all those extra nooks and crannies soaking up melted butter, syrup and jam can turn ordinary pancake batter into a special occasion. And for Nike Co-Founder Bill Bowerman, his wife’s waffle iron inspired a shoe. Bill used the pattern to design a running shoe that would grip the road while remaining lightweight. The “Moon Shoe” and “Waffle Trainer” set Nike apart in the 1970s and they’ve been out in the lead ever since. On National Waffle Iron Day, cook up your own inspiration. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to June 28th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate peace of mind and tall tales. Just about everyone buys insurance in one form or another, most likely it’s for their cars or homes. But there’s one insurance company that does things a bit differently. Lloyd’s of London offers policies for things most of us wouldn’t even think to insure. For example, Bruce Springsteen insured his voice for $6 million. Keith Richards has his hands insured in case he’s no longer able to play guitar. Both Heidi Klum and David Beckham have insured their legs, though for different reasons. On National Insurance Awareness Day, take the time to review your policies and coverages. Insurance is something you think you’ll never need—until you do. Paul Bunyan first appeared in print in 1906. But it wasn’t until 1914 that a logging company advertisement made the lumberjack with the red plaid shirt and his blue ox a part of American folklore. These tall tales fueled our imagination with larger-than-life explanations. His ax carved the Grand Canyon as he dragged it behind him. The Great Lakes became watering holes for Babe the big blue ox. Today there are statues of this legendary duo that remind us of the grandeur of our own natural resources. It’s as if Paul Bunyan’s character showed us how to take in the size and splendor of our precious country. On National Paul Bunyan Day, celebrate the tall tales that help us measure the worth of our own neck of the woods. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to June 27th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate staying cool under pressure and looking cool while you’re at it. On Memorial Day weekend of 1929, Tom Carvel was driving his ice cream truck around when he got a flat tire. He pulled into the parking lot of a local shop and watched helplessly as the ice cream began to melt. Staying cool under pressure, he decided to sell the slightly melted ice cream to passersby. The softer texture was a big hit and he quickly sold out his entire stock. Carvel soon opened a permanent store to sell the new style of ice cream and the name Carvel became synonymous with sort-serve and ice cream cakes. On National Ice Cream Cake Day enjoy this perfect way to have your cake and ice cream and eat them too. Sure sunglasses are cool, but thanks to the Vision Council, most of us know they’re our first line of defense from harmful UV rays. That doesn’t mean you can’t flaunt your own personal style! If you’re going for “Risky Business chic,” why not try a pair of Ray-Ban Wayfarers like the ones worn by Tom Cruise? Fashion icon Jackie O. turned heads in her signature oversized glasses that are still popular today. And who doesn’t like the anti glare benefit of a classic pair of Aviator glasses? On National Sunglasses Day, be sure to pick a pair that offers the best protection for your peepers. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to June 26th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate our best friends in beauty and adventurous fruits. They say that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. With nearly 100 billion dollars spent each year on cosmetic and personal care products in the United States alone, that’s a market that depends heavily on how we see ourselves. Regardless of economic downturns, these self-esteem boosters are high on our list. Products like lipstick trended upwards, even while folks stood in line for food during the Great Depression. Today we celebrate our trusted friends in our quest to be our personal best: our beauticians, barbers, aestheticians and cosmetologists. They know us in our weakest moments, when we can’t face the mirror alone. And the transformation is much deeper than listening to our troubles while they whisk away our flaws. On National Beautician’s Day, we celebrate those who help us find beauty in ourselves. If you find yourself walking the beaches of Ireland or the UK, you may be in for a surprise. Yes, you’ll see all the usual things like seashells and gulls, but you may also stumble across coconuts. How did these tropical fruits come to be found in such a far off locale? As unusual as it may seem, there is a perfectly logical explanation. Coconuts fall from palm trees in the Caribbean and get caught up in the Gulf Stream. The current picks up the coconuts and takes them on a journey across the Atlantic of nearly 4,500 miles. From there they wash up on beaches, much to the surprise of residents and tourists. On National Coconut Day, enjoy the exotic taste of this adventurous island fruit. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to June 25th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate two winter holidays in the Dog Days of Summer. The Saturday after the Summer Solstice, gather your friends and family to celebrate Summersgiving! This day is designed to combine all the fun of Summer with America’s favorite Thanksgiving foods. It’s a celebration of life rooted in gratitude, to be shared with the friends that make life fun. Everyone has a favorite holiday food or tradition, and Summersgiving lets you celebrate outside under the stars. What a perfect opportunity to expand this tradition to a broader circle of family and friends. With the season in full swing, the heat is probably getting to you. Take some cool consolation that Christmas is a mere 6 months away. It may sound a bit premature to be thinking about the holiday, but this is the perfect time to start planning for Christmas, especially if you are the crafty type. Why wait til the last minute when you can get a head start on the festivities? That doesn’t mean you have to stop enjoying your summer. It means you have more time to get your ducks in a row. So hang by the pool, and know that you’re way ahead of the game today on National Leon Day. If you’re confused, don’t be. Leon is just Noel spelled backwards! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to June 24th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate furry interns and sweet “nut-things.” For those of us who work at home, every day is National Take Your Dog To Work Day. And these pups are truly lucky to be around their favorite person all day - you! There’s the added benefit of playtime, treats, and tummy rubs which can break up work nicely. But if you work in an office, consider this: dogs at work can relieve stress and increase productivity, not just for you but also for your whole team! Don’t be afraid to bring your pooch along, to celebrate the canine calming effect on National Take Your Dog to Work Day. There are lots of stories about the origin of the candy known as the praline, but they all point to the same 17th century Count. Apparently this lovesick Count asked his personal chef to create an irresistible candy that he could give out to the women he was courting. The confection, which was originally made with almonds, became very popular and was brought to the Southern United States by French immigrants in the 1800s. It was there that the candy was given a local twist, replacing almonds with pecans. The praline that we know and love in the States was born from this substitution. On National Pralines Day, celebrate your sweet tooth with this classic confectionary love note. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to June 23rd, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate being in the pink and Motown pizza. Some people have streets named after them. Others have landmarks. But not many people can say they have a color named in their honor. Madame du Pompadour, a mistress of Louis XV loved pink so much that a designer created a shade just for her. The color Rose Pompadour became very fashionable with European royalty during this time, and was used for clothing and fine china. While it may be traditionally associated with women’s fashion, pink has been gaining popularity with men nowadays. If you’re “in the pink” today, it means you are in good health, top form or condition. Though you may prefer to call it salmon, rose or fuchsia, on National Pink Day, we hope you’re feeling uplifted with good reasons to celebrate. 8x10 is the size of a photo frame. Unless you’re in Detroit. Here, an 8x10 or a 10x14 are pizza sizes. While New York and Chicago usually get all the attention, Motor City has its own spin on the Italian favorite. Their brand of pizza is similar to the Sicilian style—thick, square slices. But what sets Detroit-style pizza apart is the way it’s constructed and baked. First, the dough is shaped into the pan, then the add-ons like pepperoni are placed on top, then cheese, then pizza sauce. This seemingly mixed-up order of ingredients prevents the dough from getting soggy while it’s being cooked. If you haven’t tried this type of pizza, National Detroit-Style Pizza Day is the perfect time to give it a whirl. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to June 22nd, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate carbs fit for a king and great moments in greasy spoon history. Not much is known about the origin of eclairs, but we do know they became famous in nineteenth century France. Chef Careme is thought to be their creator, as he baked them at the Court of King Louis the 18th. The word eclair means flash of lightning, which may be a nod to its shiny frosting. Or it could be the speed at which Louis devoured his favorite pastry. Today, chocolate eclairs can be found in bakeries around the world, although they shouldn’t be confused with the Long John. This is a doughnut that’s shaped like an eclair with a cream filling and chocolate glaze. On National Chocolate Eclair Day, celebrate in courtly style, with the pastry that still goes down like lightning. It’s not often that a fried food becomes a lightning rod for controversy, but on June 10, 2007, that’s exactly what happened to onion rings. After 6 seasons, The Sopranos took its final bow. But rather than the series ending with a bang, it ended with the main character sitting in a diner, eating an onion ring. The frustration at this show’s “big finale” is understandable, but so is the moment of solace that Tony Soprano gets from this diner grub. Usually French fries get all the love, but there’s really nothing better with a burger than a crispy order of onion rings. Whether thickly battered or lightly fried, this comfort food is absolute heaven. On National Onion Rings Day, hook up your meal with the side dish that truly satisfies. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to June 21st, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate shredding the half pipe and the need to overshare. The Z-boys were a group of Los Angeles teenagers who rode the waves near the Santa Monica pier. On days when the ocean was too calm for surfing, they would go skateboarding. In the early 1970s, there was a major drought in Southern California and when pools began to dry up, the teens found a silver lining to the situation. They skated the walls of empty pools, which was the origin of skate parks and half-pipes that every skateboarder knows today. Without the Z-boys, there would never have been a Tony Hawk or X-Games and skaters everywhere owe these kids a debt of gratitude. On Go Skateboarding Day, grab your longboard and cruise the streets or get out to the skate park and start shredding. Selfies are more popular than ever, as folks can’t seem to resist sharing every aspect of their lives. There are even categories of selfies that express our favorite moments. Duck face selfies need no explanation along with selfies we take in the car. Foodie Selfies show off our good taste in meals, and Pet Selfies capture how much we look like our pets. Travel Selfies show off the places we go and Celebrity Selfies are a big boost on Social Media. If you’re looking extra glamorous or buffed out at the gym, Selfies capture that air of confidence. And perhaps most popular of all are the Bestie Selfies that feature the folks who always make us look and feel our best, no matter what we are up to. On National Selfie Day, celebrate sharing what you care about the most. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to June 20th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate great birds in history. Benjamin Franklin once said that the turkey was “a Bird of Courage… '' that would not hesitate to attack any British soldiers who dared to step foot onto their farm. This argument did not win the day when choosing our Nation’s mascot and unfortunately for the bird is loved today for very different reasons. June is National Turkey Lovers Month and while the bird was passed over as a mascot, it’s still a go to protein for meat eaters and a formidable foe on the farm. Celebrate your love for turkeys with a burger or a trip to the petting zoo depending on which camp you’re in. After the United States became a sovereign nation, with the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the Founding Fathers requested that a Presidential Seal be made. But it took nearly 6 years to find an acceptable design that Congress could agree on. It’s the one we know today, with a Bald Eagle as the focal point, and its appeal was nearly unanimous. Well, nearly. Ben Franklin thought the illustration made the eagle look like a turkey. Thankfully, Ben was outnumbered on this one and the eagle took its place as the symbol of our country. On National American Eagle Day, we celebrate the majestic bird that still inspires us to reach great heights. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to June 19th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate timeless timepieces and the guys we look up to. For hundreds of years after their invention in the 1500s, watches were carried in pockets or worn on chains around one’s neck. Wristwatches didn’t become popular with men until the early 1900s, and then only out of necessity. During World War I, soldiers wore timepieces on their wrists in order to keep both hands free to load and fire weapons. Soldiers grew so accustomed to wearing them that watches became all the rage after the Great War even for civilians. Not only were they functional, they were also viewed as quite masculine because of the connection to the military. On National Watch Day, celebrate the timepiece that keeps on ticking. Marlo, you have a watch that also keeps track of your steps, eh? Father’s Day was made for honoring the guy in your life who taught you how to fish or ride a bike. Maybe you haven’t always seen eye to eye, but just for today give your dad the celebration of his choice. Fortunately there’s something for everyone. If your dad likes to lay around on the couch and eat lasagna, you could celebrate National Garfield The Cat Day together. Or fire up the grill and cook turkey burgers for National Turkey Lovers' Day. And if your dad likes gadgets there’s always National Watch Day to inspire some new gear as a gift. No matter how you celebrate Father's Day, spending quality time together is the very best present of all. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to June 18th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate side splitting self care and relaxing hobbies. Today is about the ultimate in self care - “the splurge!” Splurging is that “certain something” that makes you feel spoiled in your own special way. It might be extra whipped cream on your latte, a great bottle of wine or a gadget that would make your life easier. But if you’re like me, splurging means ordering whatever you please from the menu. And if you happen to be in Kingman, AZ, Mr. Dz Diner is the perfect place to do just that. John, what was that thing you ordered on our last trip to Mr. Dz? I believe there’s an unwritten law that calories consumed on a road trip don’t count. So give yourself permission to celebrate the best life has to offer on National Splurge Day. Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you can expect him to disappear for hours on end. No, that’s not how the proverb goes, but anyone who has ever stood on the water’s edge with a fishing rod in hand knows it’s a great way to spend an afternoon. Sure, some people take fishing very seriously and won’t be content unless they reel in the big one. But plenty of folks are happy to patiently wait for a tug at the end of their line, while enjoying the peace of the great outdoors. Bragging about the one that got away is optional. Today is the perfect excuse to get outside and cast a line. On National Go Fishing Day, cast your cares aside too as you head on down to the old fishing hole. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to June 17th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a dessert that keeps on rolling and a mascot who keeps us laughing. The German word “strudel” literally means “swirl,” which makes sense if you think of its whirlpool shape. This flaky, fruit-filled pastry was created in 1696 and became very popular during the Habsburg Dynasty. Today apple strudel is still one of Austria’s most famous dishes, but you may not know that at one time it was also the official state pastry of Texas. That’s because German settlers brought strudel to America and won over this part of the country. While many flavors of strudel exist both savory and sweet, the apple kind has remained a favorite. This is probably because apples can be found during good times and bad, and on National Apple Strudel Day, you can count on this dessert to inspire celebration. In 1974, Ted Giannoulas was hired to dress in a chicken costume for an event at the city’s world-famous San Diego Zoo. Ted was a big fan of the Padres baseball team and worked out a deal to wear the costume during games. His intent was to be able to watch the Padres for free, but the mascot’s appearances at games became a sensation. Even when the team wasn’t playing well, people would show up to the stadium simply to see the San Diego Chicken’s antics. Dancing, chasing around players, joking with the umpires…he did it all. For nearly 50 years, the Chicken entertained audiences and became the most famous team mascot of all time. On National Mascot Day, celebrate the folks who are willing to “take one for the team” to keep fans entertained even when their teams are stinking it up on the field I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks fo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to June 16th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate profitable pastimes and candies. There was a time that if you wanted to listen to music in public, there needed to be a live band. But Jimmy Savile changed all that in 1943, when he threw the world’s first DJ dance party in Otley, England. He played jazz records at the Loyal Order of Ancient Shepherds and was the first DJ to use twin turntables, a setup DJs still use to this day. Later that decade, the first disco club opened in Paris, France, called Whiskey a Go-Go. Since then, the disc jockey has become a fixture in popular culture and is an integral part of getting pop music to the masses. June is National DJ Month, when we celebrate the folks who keep the world singing and dancing. From her desk at Vassar College, Emelyn Hartridge wrote that a classmate’s cousin had sold a pound of fudge for 40 cents. She hatched a plan to make up a batch for the Senior Auction that year and the entrepreneur spirit quickly spread. Soon other women’s colleges had developed their own recipes and by 1888 fudge fever was afoot. Young women dodged curfew and cooked up the candy over gas lamps in their dorm rooms. Fudge was seen as an indulgence, which probably fueled the rebellion. But regardless of who cooked it up first, candy stores on Mackinac Island, Michigan put this treat on the map. Today gift shops across the country carry all sorts of flavors and on National Fudge Day, it’s easy to celebrate the candy that still sells like hotcakes. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to June 15th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate deadly creatures and amazing views. The Great White Shark is one of the most deadly predators on Earth. But it looks positively tame when compared to its great great great granddaddy—the Megalodon. This prehistoric fish hunted throughout the world’s oceans until about 3.5 million years ago when it went extinct. Based on fossils, the Megalodon was about 50 feet in length, making it not just the biggest shark ever, but also one of the biggest fish ever. So big, in fact, that its name literally just means big teeth. It used to feed on whales and its open mouth measured 10 feet across—large enough to swallow a couple full grown humans whole. Luckily, people weren’t around at the time to witness this monstrosity in the flesh. On National Megalodon Day, celebrate by learning more about one of the ocean’s deadliest creatures. Have you ever noticed how being out in nature can automatically boost your mood? On Nature Photography Day why not bring that feeling home with you? Most smartphones take amazing pictures, and you don’t have to be an expert like Ansel Adams to capture the moment. Great pictures tell great stories, and this is your chance to bring your vision to life. Sharing them on Social Media can inspire others to take in their own view. We could all use a break and the natural world is a ready oasis, even if your National Geographic adventure extends only to the backyard. On Nature Photography Day, answer the call of the wild and watch your day get a little brighter. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to June 14th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate inspirational bears and distinctly American tastes. In 1950, a large and destructive wildfire tore through the mountains of south-central New Mexico. After firefighters extinguished the blaze, they found a tiny bear cub hanging on to the top of a charred tree. Rangers took him in and nursed him back to health and gave him a name—Smokey Bear. This little guy became a mascot for the United States Forest Service as well as the face of fire prevention and forest conservation. When he passed away in 1976, his remains were returned to the mountains where he’d been rescued so many years before. There’s even Smokey Bear Historical Park built in his honor. On National New Mexico Day, we celebrate the Land of Enchantment and all its citizens, even the four-legged ones. Countries around the world have their own distinct take on alcohol. Russia has vodka. Japan has sake. And here in the United States, we have bourbon. It’s widely believed that whiskey can only be considered bourbon if it comes from Kentucky. That’s not true, but there are some specific legal requirements for every alcohol that wants to be labeled bourbon. First, the grains used to produce it must be at least 51% corn. And it must also be aged in charred oak barrels. The aging process is what gives bourbon its distinctive taste. If you’re an aficionado, you already know this makes all the difference in the world. On National Bourbon Day, enjoy a glass of this distinctly American drink. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to June 13th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a persistent inventor and persistent weeds. Elias Howe patented the sewing machine in 1838, but didn’t make any money selling it. In fact, he was living in poverty until he realized that other manufacturers had been ripping him off and selling lots of sewing machines in the process. So he sued them. All of them. And he won each lawsuit, earning himself millions of dollars. But what really brought the machine to the masses was his collaboration with Isaac Singer, who had invented a sewing machine that was totally different, except for one thing. Singer licensed the needle design from Howe, who took a cut of every machine sold, and the rest is history. On National Sewing Machine Day, celebrate a revolutionary invention that’s kept us in stitches for more that 150 years! In the early 1900s, farmers in the Southeastern United States found a plant that provided an inexpensive way to combat soil erosion. It was called kudzu. It does do that, but it also kills other plants by smothering them and cutting off any nutrients. And it grows like wildfire. Kudzu can grow a whole foot in one day and in just a few decades it has covered the landscape from Florida up to New Jersey and as far west as Texas. And there doesn’t seem to be an end in sight. So when you’re in your backyard complaining about dandelions and crabgrass on National Weed Your Garden Day, remember that it could be a lot worse. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to June 12th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate floriography and tasty health food. Floriography, the process of communicating via flowers and their arrangements, was developed during the Victorian era. For example, a bouquet containing verbena is asking for your prayers. A bouquet with yellow tulips is saying that the sender loves your smile. And birdsfoot trefoil means that someone is looking for revenge. But the most timeless symbol of floriography is the red rose. It symbolizes romantic love in its purest form. Henri Matisse once said “There is nothing more difficult for a truly creative painter than to paint a rose, because before he can do so he has first to forget all the roses that were ever painted.” On National Red Rose Day, give someone you love a subtle hint with a bouquet of these classic blooms. Stopping in at a convenience store is typically about 2 things, getting gas or buying snacks. And many times, that snack is a bag of jerky. This food once served an important role in global exploration, especially in cold climates. Fur traders in Canada used jerky and other dried foods because the fresh stuff was often in short supply. Expeditions to the North and South Poles carried a type of jerky called pemmican because it weighed less and took up less space in their packs. Plus, it had good nutritional content, perfect for sustaining the explorers on their long treks. On National Jerky Day, celebrate this delicious snack that can keep you going on your local expeditions. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to June 11th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate Summer’s best veggie and a confusing cake. Americans love fresh corn and, on average, eat about six pounds per person each year. During summer cookouts, it’s arguably the most popular food other than burgers and hotdogs. But some people take their love of corn to the extreme. The National Sweet Corn Eating Championship is held each year in West Palm Beach, Florida and attracts corn aficionados from around the world. Carmen Cincotti from New Jersey holds the record for most corn on the cob eaten in a 12-minute span. In 2019, Cincotti wolfed down 61.75 ears. That’s roughly 38.5 lbs of corn, more than enough to last someone for several summers. On National Corn on the Cob Day, celebrate with some sweet corn of your own. But go slow and savor it. German chocolate cake…it’s a luscious dessert straight from Germany, right? Nope. The cake is actually named after the man who invented it: Sam German. The thing that made it stand out from traditional chocolate cakes was its use of sweet, rather than dark baking chocolate. Plus the frosting with coconut and pecans. For years, it was known as German’s Chocolate Cake, but wasn’t particularly popular until the 1950s when a newspaper in Dallas, Texas brought it to the public eye. And somewhere along the way, the apostrophe S got dropped, giving it the somewhat confusing name we know today. There’s no confusion about how delicious it is though, so go ahead splurge on National German Chocolate Cake Day, with a nice big slice. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to June 10th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate movie classics and disappearing ink. It’s estimated that since the beginning of film, there have been about 500,000 feature-length movies made. And although it fluctuates from year to year, the genre that has earned the most money worldwide is Action. The all-time highest-grossing film is Avatar, with over $2.8 billion in ticket sales. Unless you adjust for inflation. Then the top film ever is Gone With The Wind, which has grossed the equivalent of $3.75 billion since its release in 1939. You’ve got thousands of options to celebrate National Movie Night, so get that popcorn popped and pull up on the couch with one of your favorites—movies and people. Considering how quickly they disappear from desks, ballpoint pens can seem like a precious commodity. And when they were first introduced in America in 1945, they were priced as if they were. The first ballpoint pen sold in the United States, the Reynolds Rocket, was priced at $12.50, which is the equivalent of nearly$150 today. Despite the hefty price tag, the Reynolds company sold nearly 1.5 million units that year. Today, over 3.5 billion of these pens are imported into the United States annually. Safe to say that they’ve become an integral part of everyday life, even if you can never find one when you need it. On National Ballpoint Pen Day, celebrate the ordinary item we can’t seem to live without. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to June 9th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the bird that still quacks us up and Summer’s best sweet tart duo. Donald Duck was first introduced to the world in 1931 in a book called The Adventures of Mickey Mouse. In the story, he and several other animals join Mickey and Minnie for a hoedown at a local barn. The story isn’t that significant, but something in the book is—it’s the first and only time that Donald ever wore pants. Plus, the pants and matching hat were green, so maybe that just means he hadn’t yet joined the Navy. That outfit didn’t make an appearance until his first film role in 1934. Today, we celebrate the crazy, foul-tempered little duck who plays second fiddle only to Mickey, Mr. Donald Fauntleroy Duck. Yes, that’s really his middle name. Happy National Donald Duck Day! It will probably come as no surprise that rhubarb was initially produced as a medicine. The first recorded use dates back to 2700 BCE. Today we know that rhubarb is high in oleic acid, although the leaves are toxic and the stalks must be cooked before they can be eaten. It’s also a food that tastes much better when paired with sugar or sweet fruits. Strawberries to the rescue! This winning combination was first discovered in England and Germany, but we have gladly adopted its sweet, tart flavor here in the United States. On National Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Day, pucker up and celebrate a seasonal super star! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to June 8th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate polka paradise and pals who are the perfect fit. Not many people have made a career out of playing an accordion. But then again, most people aren’t Weird Al Yankovic. Since he burst onto the music scene in the early 1980s, Yankovic has been poking fun at other musicians. And while they made names for themselves with electric guitars and drums, Al did it his way—with kooky lyrics and his trusty accordion. The instrument isn’t exactly cool, but it gives a distinct sound and, as Weird Al put it: “It’s great, especially if you’re a solo accordion act. You can get a whole lot of really cool sounds out of it and basically be a one-man band.” June is National Accordion Awareness Month, a perfect time to polka or dive into Weird Al’s discography. Most of us choose our friends because they like the same things we do. But best friends aren’t necessarily our twin. Take Bella the Labrador retriever and Bubbles the elephant. This pair met at Myrtle Beach Animal Safari after Bubbles was rescued from Africa. Their unlikely friendship was featured in the movie Ace Ventura II and even a Janet Jackson Video! What makes these two so special is their love of water. They can be found splashing around, playing catch and cuddling afterwards. And while your bestie might not double as a perfect leather sofa, On National Best Friends Day, be sure to show them love for being the perfect fit in your life! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to June 7th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate feathered heroes and a frozen favorite. In Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, you can visit a museum that pays tribute to some of the lesser-known heroes of the American armed forces—the winged kind. Specifically pigeons. During World War II, over 55,000 of these winged messengers carried notes high above battlefields, delivering information that might otherwise be intercepted over radio or phone lines. The American Pigeon Museum & Library offers an in-depth look at how these birds helped shape American history, both in times of war and peace. On National Oklahoma Day, celebrate the Sooner State and all its citizens, winged or otherwise. While the most popular ice cream flavor is vanilla, it may surprise you that chocolate ice cream was invented first. The recipe for chocolate ice cream appeared in an Italian cookbook in 1692, but like most frozen treats, it came from popular drinks that were poured over ice. When the Spaniards conquered Mexico in 1519 they discovered the irresistible Mayan chocolate drink that would become the basis of the first frozen chocolate. Spanish explorer Alberto Garcia reportedly exclaimed, “In all my life I have never made a discovery so fine. This is not a taste, it’s an emotion.” On National Chocolate Ice Cream Day, celebrate the scoops that still make us swoon! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to June 6th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a toy that distracts us from life’s ups and downs and a blast from the past. Yo-yos were all the rage in the United States during the mid 1900s, but the toy has been around since ancient times. Pottery from Ancient Greece depicts children playing with yo-yos and images of the toy have been found in Egyptian art. In 18th Century France, the aristocracy found yo-yos very fashionable and royalty had them made of ivory and glass. But not all cultures thought of yo-yos as toys or fashion accessories. In the Philippines, hunters used them as weapons, hiding in trees and dropping the yo-yo onto their prey. On National Yo-Yo Day celebrate life’s ups and downs with this fun, classic toy. If you’re looking for a fun way to spend a Summer’s night with the whole family, consider the drive-in movie. While they’re not exactly new, once upon a time, these theaters looked a lot different. In Long Island, New York one of the largest drive-in theaters boasted 29 acres that could fit 2,500 cars. It also had a full-service restaurant with rooftop seating, a trolley system to take kids to the playground and indoor seating in case of bad weather. Though drive-in theaters fell out of fashion for a time, today they’re making a comeback. With better sound, digital projection, and more restaurant-like concession stands, you can celebrate National Drive-In Movie Day in futuristic comfort. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to June 5th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate potent potables and primal plant protein. If you’ve ever seen someone in a movie pick up a jug with three Xs on the label, you know that it’s moonshine. Everyone assumes that the X is just a mark invented by Hollywood, but it’s not. In fact, the marks are used as a way to track moonshine’s production. An X is added to the jug after each round of distillation. The first round produces some strong but nasty-tasting alcohol known as singling. A couple more rounds gives distillers the nearly pure alcohol we know as moonshine and that’s how it earns the three Xs. In some cases, the stuff can get to nearly 200 proof and is almost guaranteed to pack a punch. Proceed with caution as you raise a glass of legal moonshine to celebrate National Moonshine Day. It used to be that vegetarians were a bit on the outside of cookouts. Sure, there were veggie burgers, but they were made of beans or soy and most of the time they didn’t hold up on the grill. So maybe you ended up eating some... potato salad…or maybe a roll with cheese on it. But now there are options for people who avoid animal protein: plant-based burgers that taste like…well, actual meat. Thanks to the Impossible Burger and similar brands, non-meat eaters can feel more included at backyard barbecues. On National Veggie Burger Day, celebrate the plant based stuff you can really sink your teeth into. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to June 4th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the teens of the animal world and the world’s rarest cheese. Black bears are pretty cool animals, but they act like moody teenagers. These bears are introverts, choosing to spend a great deal of their lives alone. But each summer, they get social, meet up with other bears just long enough to find a mate, then retreat back to solitude. And of course they hibernate—sometimes for up to 7 months out of the year. If and when they give birth, the kids get to stick around for about a year and a half before being sent off into the world. On National Black Bear Day, celebrate these curious and surprisingly quiet creatures - just keep a safe distance! Today we celebrate an ooey, gooey comfort food - delicious cheese! This all time favorite can be found in every corner of the world, though it’s made from a variety of ingredients. One of the rarest of these is the cheese that’s made from moose milk. At the Elk House farm in Sweden, it takes three moose to produce milk at the rate of 5 liters a day between May and September. But at a price tag of $500 per pound for the finished cheese, it’s definitely worth all the trouble . Kinda makes good old cheddar seem like a bargain. If you’re up for adventure visit the Swedish farm on National Cheese Day. Or grab a slab of something a little closer to home. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to June 3rd, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate life “on repeat” and our favorite comfort food. Everyone has found themselves in a conversation with someone who talks too much. According to Greek mythology, it even happened to the goddess Hera. A nymph named Echo started talking to Hera and just. wouldn’t. stop. The goddess became so annoyed that she put a curse on Echo—from that day on, the nymph could only repeat the last word that someone else said. Over the years, it got worse and worse until Echo simply faded away into just a sound. And if you’ve ever been near a canyon, you’ve heard her. It’s National Repeat Day, and you can repeat fun things like snacking over and over. Or you can repeat what your friends say. But be careful who you do that to. Some people really don’t like it. Doughnuts are so delicious that most people like to celebrate them every day. But the very first Doughnut Day was created by The Salvation Army in 1938 to honor the women who served this comfort food to soldiers during World War I. They were known as the Salvation Army Lassies, and they bravely went to the front lines to deliver this treat and other morale boosters. Doughnuts were so prized that soldiers even used their metal helmets to heat the oil used to fry them up. This is why American Infantrymen were often called doughboys. On National Doughnut Day, celebrate the sweet treat that still serves up that comfortable feeling of home. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to June 2nd, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate taking a break and smoothing the rocky road. In the film Office Space, the main character Peter beautifully sums up office life: “Human beings were not meant to sit in little cubicles staring at computer screens all day, filling out useless forms and listening to bosses drone on about mission statements!” Amen, brother. And yet here we are. Doing exactly that. But guess what? It’s June. The weather is nice. And it’s almost the weekend. So things are looking up. Take a little extra time today for you on National Leave the Office Early Day…and catch up on life a bit before you head back to work tomorrow. Sorry but you do have to go back. Around the time of the Great Depression, ice cream makers William Dreyer and Joseph Edy decided to try something new. Up until then, ice cream came in basic flavors, but a new refrigeration technology allowed for more ingredients to get mixed in. They dubbed their creation Rocky Road, which swirled walnuts and marshmallows into chocolate ice cream. This was a nod to the difficult times people were facing, and this silver lining flavor was a huge hit. At this point we should mention that Dreyer was likely forgiven by his wife for using her sewing scissors to snip up the marshmallows in the first test batch. On National Rocky Road Day, celebrate the good things in life and the small things that make the road a little smoother. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to June 1st, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate going the distance and bridging the miles with words. Centuries before the Pony Express delivered messages across the American West, the chaskis connected cities across the Incan Empire. The difference is that the chaskis did it on foot. Using a series of relays, these messengers sprinted through what is now Peru and Chile carrying messages from one end of the empire to the other. Some days, runners could cover up to 150 miles. If that sounds impressive, consider that the chaskis were doing it in one of the highest mountain ranges in the world. On National Running Day, lace up your sneakers and get your heart racing. Presidents Thomas Jefferson and John Adams were what you might call frenemies. They were very close as they worked on the Declaration of Independence, but had a big falling out after the presidential election in 1800. For the next 12 years, they didn’t speak. But when a mutual friend died in 1813, Jefferson wrote a letter to tell Adams the bad news. Adams wrote back to say thank you and shared some of his memories. They slowly rebuilt their friendship over the next 13 years, corresponding until the day they died. And, ironically, they passed on the same day—July 4th 1826. On National Pen Pal Day, take some time to reach out to a friend or strike up a correspondence with someone new. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to May 31, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a miraculous smarm and smile power. The California Gull is an official state bird—but not of California. It seems strange, but this bird that can sometimes be seen as a nuisance to beachgoers is a hero in Utah. Back in 1848, swarms of crickets descended on the crops of new settlers in Utah. Entire farms were at risk of being wiped out—until flocks of migrating seagulls arrived. The birds swooped in and feasted on the crickets until they’d completely eliminated the invading bugs. In appreciation, the state named the California Gull as its official bird. On National Utah Day, celebrate the Beehive State who appreciates all its residents both great and small. Contrary to popular belief, it does not take fewer muscles to smile than to frown. The simple act of smiling can use up to 53 muscles, while frowning takes only 11. But the good news is that all this upward, facial exercise is actually good for your health. Psychologists say that a smile can instantly improve your mood, even if you have to force it. And smiles relax our bodies too, which is good news for our immune systems. Not to mention the ripple effect this causes for those on the receiving side. You never know how a simple smile can change someone’s entire day. On National Smile Day celebrate the exercise that not only benefits you, but also the world around you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to May 30, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we remember our fallen heroes and celebrate the spirit of the South. Of all the wars Americans have fought, none had more casualties than the Civil War—over 500,000 people in total. Memorial gatherings became a tradition each spring, with communities visiting the cemeteries to place flowers on the graves and pay respects. In 1868, General John A. Logan, declared a nationwide day of remembrance. A day “designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country…and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village and hamlet churchyard in the land.” May 30th was chosen because it didn’t coincide with the date of any particular battle. This eventually became known as Memorial Day, which we celebrate today on the final Monday of May. If you’ve ever been to the American South you have likely been offered one of two drinks. Sweet tea is consumed in this part of the country almost as much as water. But for the non teetotaler, nothing is more Southern than the mint julep. A julep is a sweet beverage that was once served to literally make the medicine go down. From there it graduated to a grownup cocktail that included water, gin, sugar, and muddled mint leaves. Today the mint julep goes hand in glove with the Kentucky Derby and is made with bourbon instead of gin. An estimated 120,000 mint juleps are served at Churchill Downs over the two day event. On National Mint Julep Day, celebrate that sweet Southern style with this refreshing Summer drink. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to May 29, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate drunken roosters and amazing trades. You may not be impressed to see “Rooster with Wine” on the menu but any culinary expert knows that a good Coq Au Vin is the hallmark of French cooking. Dating all the way back to the days of Julius Caesar, the dish from the Gaul region features a braise of chicken, cooked with wine, salt pork, mushrooms, and garlic. Marlo: “Did you say “bruised chicken?” Anna: No, braised, as in cooked in liquid. Marlo: Oh, I thought that might be something they did in ancient times. Anna: Stay out of my kitchen, Marlo. Marlo: “With pleasure” Have you ever heard the story about the guy who traded a paperclip for a house? Kyle MacDonald, a Canadian blogger played the childhood game called Bigger, Better and started with a simple paperclip. The idea of the game is that you keep trading up for something bigger and better until you reach an item you would actually like to keep. At first Kyle traded his paperclip for a fish-shaped pen. After thirteen exchanges he found himself with a movie role, which someone offered to trade for their two story farm house in Kipling, Saskatchewan! Imagine turning an office supply into a house after only fourteen transactions. On National Paperclip Day, celebrate the simple things in life that are worth more than you think! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to May 28, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate barbecue classics and popular patties. Brisket is one of the most prized cuts of barbecue meat, but it wasn’t always so popular. In fact, it was once considered to be of very poor quality. However, that changed in the early 1900s when European Jewish immigrants arrived in America and made their way to Texas. Brisket had long been a staple of Passover meals because it was kosher. And since there were so many cattle in Texas, beef brisket was easy to come by. Ranchers took note of the way their new neighbors prepared brisket and made a slight change—instead of slow-cooking the tough cut of meat in an oven, Texans began to smoke it. On National Brisket Day, celebrate with a helping of this BBQ classic. Hamburgers are one of America’s most popular foods, so it’s no surprise that dozens of people take credit for their invention. The idea for a cooked patty of ground beef originated in Hamburg, Germany, and years later someone put the patty between two slices of bread. And those are the only details anyone seems to be able to agree on. This culinary superhero doesn’t appear to suffer any setback from its lack of an agreed upon origin story, however, with places like McDonald’s selling 75 of them every second! On National Hamburger Day fire up the grill or grab your favorite takeout for a flavor that always delivers the taste of home. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to May 27, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a portable fridge and the gateway to adventure. One of the most useful inventions to come out of World War II was styrofoam, which was originally intended as a replacement for rubber. In the post-war years, styrofoam got put to a new use—portable coolers. As Americans settled into suburban life, picnics and barbecues became popular, which drove the demand for a way to keep foods and beverages cold outside the home. Companies like Coleman and Igloo capitalized on the trend and soon the portable cooler became an everyday item. On the Friday before Memorial Day, celebrate National Cooler Day by loading up this portable fridge and heading to the great outdoors. Anna: So Marlo, we’re packing a cooler and heading to Kingman, AZ today right? Marlo: I know, I'm so excited. It's gonna be great to finally time to celebrate National Road Trip Day! Anna: And we are kicking off the party from Kingman because it’s the official Gateway to Route 66. Marlo: That's right. So look for us around town if you get there. Anna: Do you have a favorite memories from when we filmed our television show there? Marlo: Oh, probably the ribs and beer and music of course. Anna: I know, I'm bringing my kids just to go to Mr. Dz Diner and have a bottomless root beer float. Marlo: That is actually my favorite thing there. John: Did you guys say "bottomless root beer float?" I'm changing my name to that. Anna: It's so good! And Desert Diamond Distillery makes these chocolate rum filled candies that I still dream about. John: I wanna check out this guy's walking tour tell me about this. Anna: Jim Hinckley is amazing, he makes history fun and they've curated a whole walk about town with historical places and his stories to go with them and the man himself will be there. John: I am excited for that. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to May 26, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate living it up in “Salsaville” and flights of fancy. June 2010 was a great time for fans of tortilla chips—specifically those who were living near Jacksonville, Texas. Bob Blumer, host of Food Network Canada’s “Glutton for Punishment” and 20 volunteers chopped up ingredients like tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and limes to create the world’s biggest bowl of salsa ever. This record-setting feat resulted in over 2,672 pounds of the delicious Mexican condiment. Once the Guinness Book of World Records verified the feat, Jacksonville mayor Robert Haberle officially changed the name of the city to “Salsaville”—for the next 24 hours, anyway. May is National Salsa Month. Celebrate with some of your favorite Mexican food or just a big bowl of chips and salsa. Though “big” is relative, I suppose. You may think of paper airplanes as kid stuff, but some people take it very seriously. Ken Blackburn set the record for the longest paper airplane flight, when his craft stayed aloft for an unbelievable 27.6 seconds. In fairness Ken is an aeronautical engineer for the Air Force, who has written a few books on the science of folding paper airplanes. No doubt his skills would make even the Wright Brothers jealous. Try your hand at a tournament if you’re feeling competitive about your own skills. Or you can just enjoy an easy pastime with the kids, who still love the simple thrill of watching something fly. Whatever you do on National Paper Airplane Day, celebrate the art of folding and flight. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to May 25, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate inspirational libations and moving to the beat of happy feet. According to Greek mythology, there were twelve gods who lived on Mount Olympus. Of the twelve, only one was part human. Dionysus held a special place for the Greeks, not only because his mother was human, but also because he created wine. This magical beverage, like Dionysus himself, could bring both joy and inspiration to those who drank it. It could, of course, also bring drama and craziness into people’s lives—which is why the ancient Greeks considered the really zealous followers of Dionysus to be dangerous. But luckily they didn’t ruin it for the rest of us. On National Wine Day, celebrate with a glass of this heavenly libation. Like so many things in American culture, tap dance is a melding of immigrant traditions. Irish step dancing, performed with clogs, and African juba dance, which involves rhythmic clapping and stomping combined to form the basis for a new form of dance. Tap dancing merged aspects of both dances, but added metal to the bottom of shoes, giving each step a musical quality. And that combination created a style of dance unlike any other. Vaudeville popularized tap, but it was made famous by Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire, who added a bit of ballroom flair to the mix. Astaire’s dance in Singin’ In the Rain may be the most memorable tap performance ever. Celebrate National Tap Dance Day by watching an old musical or by learning a few steps for yourself. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to May 24, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate amazing monuments and baffling treasure hunts. In 1906, President Theodore Roosevelt established Devil’s Tower as the first National Monument in America. This unique rock formation rises high above the Black Hills area of Wyoming and has long been part of Native American mythology. According to legend, the sides of the butte were carved up by a giant bear that was trying to claw its way to the peak, giving the rock its distinct appearance. In more recent times, Devil’s Tower featured prominently in the film Close Encounters of the Third Kind, becoming a part of pop culture as well. On National Wyoming Day, we celebrate The Equality State, the first state to grant women the right to vote—way back in 1869. Off the south shore of Nova Scotia, Canada, lies the mysterious Oak Island. In 1795, Daniel McGuiness and his friends began digging a hole and encountered what appeared to be a man-made shaft. As more of the tunnel was unearthed, a rock was discovered with a coded inscription that, when translated, read: “Forty feet below, two million pounds lie buried.” Since then, Oak Island has turned into the world’s biggest scavenger hunt, with treasure seekers looking for clues that could lead to a hidden fortune. Some have made discoveries such as parchments that, in turn, led them to other small treasures, like ancient jewelry or weapons. But after more than 2 centuries of digging, no one has found the big treasure. On National Scavenger Hunt Day, plan your own treasure quest, which is even more fun if it only takes a day! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to May 23, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the luck you are given and the kind you make for yourself. The first one-cent coin in America was minted in 1787, and was designed by Benjamin Franklin. On one side, it read “Mind Your Business” and the other “We Are One,” though we’re not sure which side counted as heads or tails. Pennies don’t have much value, but finding one on the street is still a symbol of luck. If you abide by this superstition, be sure to pick up a penny showing “heads.” And if it shows “tails” flip the coin to heads and leave it for the next person. Who knows if this is what Ben Franklin had in mind, but on National Lucky Penny Day, celebrate the choice to pick up a little luck throughout our day. Life is full of happy accidents, it’s all in how you look at things. Consider the story of salt water taffy. In 1883, David Bradley of Atlantic City, New Jersey walked into his store to find his entire supply of taffy had been covered in ocean water during a local storm. When a girl came in that morning to buy some candy, Bradley joked that he only had salt water taffy. She willingly tried a piece and found it was delicious, and then ran down the beach to tell her friends. Salt water taffy is now a mainstay at candy stores and gift shops everywhere. On National Taffy Day, celebrate the sweet solutions to any sticky situation. And thank your lucky stars for those big storms. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to May 22, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate strange instruments and strategic goofing off. The most popular instrument in the world is the guitar. It makes sense if you think about its versatility in terms of genre. But at the other end of the spectrum, you’ll find the theremin—one of the most uncommon musical instruments. Theremins are electronic and are played without touch. To make sound, the musician passes their hands through an electric field generated by the antennas, one which controls volume and the other frequency. The music it creates is pretty eerie, so you’ve likely only heard one in horror movies. Today is National Buy a Musical Instrument Day, so get out there and find something that suits your personal style, whatever that may sound like. The World Video Game Hall of Fame has honored such favorites as Pac Man, Super Mario Brothers and Halo. But one game in the Hall of Fame may surprise you, Solitaire. This game made its debut in 1990 and since then it’s been played by more than half a billion people worldwide. Solitaire is also number three on the list of most frequently used Microsoft programs. Anyone who has ever worked in an office can tell you how happy they are that Solitaire exists. Otherwise, how would we make it through conference calls? On National Solitaire Day, celebrate the game for one that helps us goof off, while still being productive at work. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to May 21, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate those who inspire us on land, sea, air and space and also in the pool. After a few defeats at the hands of British forces, George Washington requested troops that could fight on both land and sea. On November 10, 1775, the Second Continental Congress passed a resolution to create two Battalions of Marines to serve with the Continental Army and these men changed the course of the Revolutionary War. Since then, the United States military has expanded to include not just the Army, Navy, and Marines, but also the Air Force, Coast Guard, and Space Force. On National Armed Forces Day, we celebrate all the men and women who serve our country both past and present. At the age of 10, most kids are thinking about video games and homework. But not Carson Foster. At 10 years old, he was an avid swimmer and had been competing for a few years, aspiring to be like his idol—Michael Phelps. In 2012, he beat Phelp’s record for the 50 meter butterfly by a full second. Phelps was so impressed that he sent Carson a selfie holding a sign that said “Congratulations Carson!” A few years later, at age 16, Carson broke another of Phelps’ records. Watch out for Carson Foster, who may just break a few more records on the world stage. Celebrate National Learn to Swim Day by dipping your toes in the water. Who knows where this fun pastime might lead. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to May 20, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate slowing down to the speed of streaming and life in the fast lane. There was a time when if you wanted to watch a season of an entire TV series, you needed to go buy a DVD boxed set. Then in 2012, Netflix changed that forever with a show called Lilyhammer. It’s the story of a New York gangster who is living in Norway and it was the first streaming series in TV history. Nowadays, we are overwhelmed with original content from streaming services, but back then this was highly unusual. Although Lilyhammer was only a modest hit, this show paved the way for things like Bridgerton, The Marvelous Ms. Maisel, and all of the Marvel shows. On National Streaming Day, grab some snacks, curl up on the couch, and get binge-ing! During Prohibition, it became very popular in the Southern states to illegally distill the alcohol known as moonshine. Federal agents would chase down vehicles during transport and destroy the barrels, so bootleggers began to soup up the engines on their cars. With these faster cars, they could outrun the Feds. Once Prohibition ended, those really fast cars were going to waste, so people began to race the vehicles and that evolved into what we know today as NASCAR. Each year on the third Friday of May, we celebrate NASCAR Day. So get comfortable on the couch, crack open a cold one and get ready for the races. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to May 19, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate colorful alternatives and sinful desserts. Buying eggs at the grocery store is a fairly bland affair when it comes to color—everything is either brown or white. Most of the eggs we buy come from a variety of chicken known as the Leghorn. But there are plenty of other chicken breeds that lay much more colorful eggs. There’s a breed called the Cuckoo Blubber that produces blue-green colored eggs. If that’s not your hue, a Maran chicken will lay you some red eggs. But perhaps you want even more color variety. Then check out the hybrid breed called the Easter Egger. This bird lays pink, green, and blue eggs and it’s totally random. May is National Egg Month, when you can enjoy a variety of new colors and delicious recipes. No one is quite sure where the name Devil's Food Cake came from. But these light, moist chocolate cakes made quite a stir when they popped up in Indiana. One of the first recipes appeared in the 1898 edition of the Hagerstown Exponent. Right in the heart of the heartland, folks were swooning over the rich results made from boiling water and cocoa powder. Perhaps they took off because they appeared side by side with Angel Food Cake recipes and offered a tempting alternative. On National Devil’s Food Cake Day, celebrate taking a walk on the naughty side with a dessert that’s sinfully delicious. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to May 18, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the crafty cleanup and puffed up cheese. Cooking and then sharing a meal with loved ones is one of the best things in life. The cleanup afterwards…not so much. So thank goodness for socialite Josephine Cochrane. Her household staff had broken too many pieces of her good china during cleaning, so she came up with an idea for washing the dishes mechanically. Cochrane enlisted the help of George Butters to build the first practical dishwasher. Her invention debuted at the 1893 World’s Fair in Chicago, Illinois and has been a mainstay in kitchens ever since. It doesn’t matter if you use liquid or powdered detergent–or even whether you put the utensil handles up or down, on National No Dirty Dishes Day put that dishwasher to use! The word soufflé is a French word meaning to puff or to breathe. And many Americans hold their breath while making a soufflé, because frankly they can be hard to master. This is probably because there are so many ways to fail when baking one. You might whip the egg whites too much or too little. And don’t even think about opening the oven door too soon or making a loud noise while they bake. The first recipe for soufflé appeared in 1742, and this culinary masterpiece is still regarded as a worthy challenge. On National Cheese Soufflé Day, celebrate by breathing new life into an old recipe that’s sure to win over a crowd. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to May 17, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate stunning stunts and sweet substitutions. Shoshone Falls in Southern Idaho is known as the Niagara of the West, and boasts some pretty amazing views. But a little past the falls is one of the coolest attractions in the state. In 1974, Evel Knievel, the world’s most famous stuntman attempted to jump the Falls. People around the world watched on TV as he launched off the ramp on a steam-powered rocket that he called the X-2 Skycycle. Unfortunately, Knievel didn’t make it to the other side because the parachute deployed too soon and he crashed into the Snake River. If you’re in the area, check out the Evel Knievel Jump Site, and on National Idaho Day, celebrate the Gem State in all its glory. They say that necessity is the mother of invention and in the case of cherry cobbler that need was for a pudding. I’m talking about British settlers in the American colonies who were longing for a taste of their hometown favorite, suet pudding. The problem was a lack of ingredients and the rudimentary ovens which most people had in the New World. But this episode of Dessert Impossible had a very happy ending. Clever bakers opted for stewed cherries instead of suet and when topped with biscuit dough, the substitutions were quite delicious! On National Cherry Cobbler Day, celebrate the ingenious results of making due with what you have on hand. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to May 16, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate living history and a legacy of barbecue. In a country with as much history as Great Britain, you’d think the oldest thing there would be some sort of ruin. But oddly enough, there’s a tree in Somerset County that outdates just about anything else in England—even Stonehenge. The Ashbrittle Yew has been around for over 3,000 years and was very important to the Ancient Celts. There is a burial mound beneath the tree that, according to legend, is the final resting place for the heads of invading Roman soldiers. Today, the tree is still going strong in the churchyard of the St. John the Baptist parish. On National Love a Tree Day, celebrate the natural world that will probably outlive us all. When you walk through the door of Floyd & Company Real Pit Barbecue, the smell of smoke triggers your appetite. Bubba Floyd left Tennessee and headed West with his family eventually landing in Kingman, Arizona. Like all transplants, he discovered a longing for home that was satisfied by building the Red Neck’s Southern Pit BBQ trailer. Now there is a permanent home that carries the Floyd name along with “& Company,” which stands for all the folks who supported them these past 18 years. When you sample the perfectly smoked meats and sides that taste like family recipes you’ll understand why. On National Barbecue Day, follow your nose to Kingman Arizona and discover a place that feels like home. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to May 15, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate role reversal and classic cookies. If you are looking to mix things up, why not celebrate National Take Your Parents to the Playground Day? If you enjoyed the classic role reversal movie, “Freaky Friday”, where a parent and child switched roles for a day, you’ll love letting the kids take you to their place of “work” to remind you how exhausting it is to be them. Make sure you pack extra juice boxes and goldfish crackers and maybe some PB&J because going the distance with your kids takes lots of extra energy. While you might not wanna actually switch places with your kids, letting them run you around the park is a fair trade! One of the supposed biggest cookie fans in the world is a big fake. Turns out that Cookie Monster isn’t nearly the aficionado of baked goods that he pretends to be. All those chocolate chip cookies we’ve seen him chomp into over the years weren’t cookies at all—they’re rice cakes with spots painted on. Puppeteers found that rice cakes break into pieces more easily and dramatically when Cookie Monster goes into a feeding frenzy. Today the rest of us can help pick up the slack by eating our share of some classic cookies—the real kind—on National Chocolate Chip Day. But try to actually get them into your mouth. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to May 14, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate breaking records in sports and dance. In the 2016 Summer Olympics, Im Dong Hyun broke the points record in the men’s archery competition. The South Korean archer did this despite being legally blind. So how exactly does someone with impaired vision compete in a sport that normally requires such sharp eyesight? He says that the target “looks as if different color paints have been dropped in water” and he aims for the middle of the smallest drop. And by the way, the Olympic record he shattered was the one he also set in the 2012 Olympics. On National Archery Day, try a sport that looks deceptively simple. As soon as you hear the upbeat oom, pah, pah of the Chicken Dance song, you know what happens next. Everyone heads to the dance floor and spends the next few minutes dancing in unison. Since it debuted in the 1950s, this silly little song has become a mainstay at weddings and Oktoberfest celebrations. In 1996, fans of the song took things to the extreme, setting the record for world’s largest Chicken Dance. 72,000 people were all flapping their arms and shaking their tail feathers at once. On National Dance Like A Chicken Day, shake things up with an impromptu dance. Even if you’re a party of one, it’s hard not to smile when you’re pretending to be poultry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to May 13, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate good old American favorites. Americans didn’t invent frog jumping, but we know where the most celebrated contest originated. That would be Calaveras County, California back in 1849. Thanks to Mark Twain, these amphibian Olympics are still celebrated throughout the country to this day. While his story had three different names, Twain landed on The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County and his frog Dan’l Webster immortalized this curious event. For the record it’s Rosie the Ribeter who holds the title for highest jump, coming in at a whopping 21 feet, 5-¾ inches. On National Frog Jumping Day, join the fun at a local event, or take it easy on the couch with a good read that is still as American as… Apple Pie? There are few things more American than apple pie. Which is kinda funny if you look into the dessert’s history. The expression originated in the 1900s, but the first record of an apple pie recipe comes from England in 1381. The list of ingredients included, of course, apples, but also figs, raisins, pears, and saffron. All the other fruit was added because sugar was very expensive and the extra fruits sweetened the food naturally. So why do we say apple pie is American? Probably just because it’s awesome and we decided to claim it for ourselves. On National Apple Pie Day, celebrate with a slice of this delicious classic. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to May 12, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate rowdy poems and technology that has stood the test of time. Anna: There once was a man from Nantucket… Marlo: WHOA! You can’t read that on the air. Anna: I’m just reading a limerick. Marlo: Okay, but we can’t actually read a limerick. They’re simple five-line poems with a set rhyme scheme, but they are usually…um…a little off-color. Anna: How about this one? There once was a man from Madras… Marlo: Stop! We don’t want to know how that one ends. On National Limerick Day everyone can google some for themselves if they want. And maybe write some clean versions. Anna: Oh, okay. There have been so many technological advancements in the past century that sometimes it’s hard to keep track. Inventions seem to come and go, especially in the digital age. But a few devices have stood the test of time. Like the odometer. This device was invented way back in 15 BCE by the Roman engineer Vitruvius. He rigged up a chariot wheel with a feature that would drop a pebble into an attached box after the wheel had turned 400 times—which was exactly a mile. At the end of a trip, the driver could determine the distance traveled by counting the number of pebbles that had dropped into the box. Keep track of how far you’ve come today on National Odometer Day. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to May 11, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate comfort food and scary television. If you have felt the pressure of watching what you eat then, today it’s time to give in to the food you love the most. Today we give you permission to skip the calorie counting and google up your favorite comfort food. Chips, cookies, pizza, or maybe some cake. Just enjoy yourself. If anyone asks why you’re on your second bag of potato chips, tell them to lighten up. It’s National Eat What You Want Day and you’re allowed to pig out if you choose, though getting crumbs on the couch is probably too far. The next time you find yourself in the window seat of an airplane, check out the wall above the window. If you see a sticker shaped like a small, black triangle, then you’re in the best spot to view the wing flaps. It’s called William Shatner’s Seat, a reference to the famous Twilight Zone episode called Nightmare at 20,000 Feet. Shatner’s character spots a monster on the wing of his flight and watches in horror as the beast tears the wing apart. But when he alerts the crew, Shatner realizes that no one can see the monster but him. Today is National Twilight Zone Day, a perfect time to revisit this classic series. We just don’t recommend it as in-flight viewing. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to May 10, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate nutty bridges and strange finds. The Lewis and Clark Bridge spans the Columbia River, serving as an important link between Oregon and Washington. But just a few miles away in Longview, is a lesser known bridge called the Nutty Narrows. In 1963, Longview resident Amos Peters was distressed by the number of squirrels that died trying to make it across the busy street near his office. So he constructed a 60-foot suspension bridge between two trees that allowed the squirrels to pass the street safely. If you happen to be in Longview stop by and see it along with the statue erected in Mr. Peters’ honor. On National Washington Day, we celebrate the Evergreen State, the only state named after a US president. If you’re a fan of the reality tv show, Storage Wars then you know that buyers bid on the contents of abandoned storage units, sight unseen. It’s not unusual to discover hidden treasures in the trash and the net gain can be astounding. One of the strangest items ever unearthed were chicken eyeglasses. It turns out that this accessory was used in the 1940s and 50s to keep chickens from pecking their eyes out. They also made the birds appear quite stylish. If it’s been awhile since you’ve cleaned up your own room, consider the hidden treasure that could be lurking in your house and on National Clean Up Your Room Day, celebrate with a good Spring cleaning. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to May 9, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate finding your groove and losing your socks. The human voice may be the oldest musical instrument. But drums have to be a close second. The act of banging a stick against an object is a simple yet effective way to create sound. No one knows exactly who invented the drum, but the instrument has been around a very long time. The remains of drums from over 7,500 years ago have been found in China and Egypt. They were used for religious ceremonies as well as entertainment, evolving over the centuries into the drum sets we know today. Get your groove on during International Drum Month by tapping out a beat! Marlo, I have seen you do that on the steering wheel of your car! Some mysteries may never be solved. Who built Stonehenge? What goes on in Area 51? And perhaps the greatest of them all: why do so many socks disappear from the dryer? It’s completely frustrating! You do a load of laundry with all your perfectly good pairs of socks. Maybe they are plain and white, or perhaps they have a picture of your dog on them. It doesn’t matter. The great dryer mystery does not discriminate. It will consume any and all socks, but only one from each pair. We are gathered today to remember these lost items on National Lost Sock Memorial Day. We celebrate the joy they once gave us, and hope that our favorite Argyle friend will find its match in sock heaven. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to May 8, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate heartfelt connections and tropical dreams. Human mothers instinctively hold their infants to the left side of their bodies. This happens regardless of whether the mother is left or right-handed. And it’s just primal instinct. The right side of the brain, which controls emotions, is linked to the left side of the body. Obviously, the left side is also where the heart is located. A mother holding her child close to her heart means that the baby will always be able to sense the mother via her heartbeat. This helps not only to build a bond physically by regulating temperature, but also emotionally by helping to keep the baby calm. On Mother’s Day, show mom that you hold her close to your heart, just as she literally did for you. Tropical fruits were all the rage in the 1800s, as Americans and Europeans took great care to import bananas and pineapples. But people scratched their heads over how to ship coconuts. It was the French who decided to shred and dry the coconut meat for easier shipping from Ceylon, and voila, a new ingredient emerged. From here it was a short hop, skip and a jump into delicious desserts such as custards and pies. And anyone who enjoys this creamy confection, is likely to whip one up for any occasion. On National Coconut Cream Pie Day, we celebrate this exotic flavor that is now a part of our favorite recipes. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to May 7, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate short sports and thinking outside the package. Today is the Kentucky Derby, also known as “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports.” Despite the name, there have only been two winners in history who’ve finished the mile and a quarter race under the two minute mark. In 2001, Monarchos finished with a time of 1:59.97. And in 1973, the great Secretariat clocked in at 1:59.40, the fastest time ever for the Kentucky Derby. But a big Derby win does not guarantee future success. Of the winners with the fastest Derby times, only Secretariat won the Triple Crown. Mix yourself a mint julep and check out the big race this afternoon! It’s been said that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. And while that may be true, it wasn’t for Coca-Cola in the early 1900s. Its product was so popular that dozens of knockoff beverages had hit the market and were cutting into Coke’s business. They decided the best way to combat this was to create a distinctive bottle. This new design not only made it stand out in a crowd, it quickly became so recognizable that people could look at it and immediately associate it with the brand. On National Packaging Design Day, take a moment to appreciate the thought that goes into the boxes and bottles we see everyday that put those products above the rest. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Pale Blue Dot is one of the most famous photographs ever taken, though you may not recognize the subject at first glance. NASA’s Voyager I spacecraft launched in 1977 and traveled the solar system, transmitting images back to scientists on Earth and forever changing our view of our celestial neighbors. In 1990, as it was passing Neptune, Voyager turned its camera back to Earth and took a photo. This picture, taken nearly 4 billion miles away, shows Earth as a pale blue dot. The planet doesn’t look like much, but it does show just how small we are in the grand scheme of things. And it’s breathtaking. On National Space Day, we celebrate the wonder of the universe and what they teach us about life on Earth. In the midst of the Civil War, an unlikely hero emerged. This person was not a soldier or even a politician. Clara Barton, a trained nurse, was working as a patent clerk, when she decided to leave her civilian post to serve in the conflict. She attended the sick and injured troops on both sides of the front line, bringing food and medical attention wherever it was needed most. This earned Clara Barton the unofficial distinction of being an Angel of the Battlefield. She went on to found the American Red Cross and is celebrated today in both the North and the South. On National Nurses Day we celebrate the hard work and dedication of the people on our front lines today. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to May 5, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate Mexican independence and reaching for the stars. In 1862, France tried to take over Mexico. The country had defaulted on loan payments to France, and the European nation was so angry that it sent troops to Mexico to resolve things with force. Normally, the United States would have intervened, but was in the midst of civil war…and France took advantage of the situation. As the French army marched toward Mexico City, it had to pass through the town of Puebla. There, a small force of Mexican soldiers, though badly outnumbered, beat the French and sent them running back to the coast. Cinco de Mayo celebrates this victory and the fiercely independent spirit of our southern neighbor. ¡Viva México! If you were alive on this day in 1961 to watch the Freedom 7 Space capsule and its 15 minute orbit, chances are good you can still feel the excitement of that moment. Astronaut Alan Shepard is regarded as a hero today and no matter your age or how you spend your time on earth, one truth remains constant, “Space Inspires.” Today we celebrate the pioneers like Shepard and many others who were willing to risk it all and go first. We know that our kids will reach new frontiers as they stand on the shoulders of these giants. On National Astronaut Day, reach for the stars and support the programs that teach the next generation of space explorers, who already know that the sky’s the limit! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to May 4, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate fancy birds and feeling the force. Male birds tend to be more beautiful than their female companions. And there’s a reason. In the bird world, the female chooses her mate based on how he woos her—and this involves catching her eye. Take, the Costa’s Hummingbird, who puts on an elaborate aerial show in front of the lady he’s courting. Twisting and turning and doing mid-air tricks, he shows off his radiant green body in the hopes that she’ll want him. But then he has to pull off the big finale: puffing out the plumes on his head to look like a big purple dandelion. And even then, she might shrug and fly away. Suddenly, swiping right doesn’t seem like such a big deal, does it? On Bird Day celebrate the eye-catching dance rituals that you thankfully don’t have to pull off yourself. In the summer of 1980, filmgoers around the world couldn’t stop buzzing about one of the biggest plot twists ever to come out of Hollywood. The first Star Wars was a massive hit, but The Empire Strikes Back made the budding franchise legendary. And it did so with one simple phrase: “Luke, I am your father.” When Darth Vader uttered that line, it immediately became one of the most famous lines ever spoken on film. And in the 40+ years since, Star Wars has kept on making memories and inspiring audiences. Raise your lightsabers and gather your droids! It’s National Star Wars Day! May the Fourth be with you! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to May 3, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the Big Sky State and all things spooky. There are more cattle than people in Montana. By a count of nearly 3 to1. But the state has always had strange ratios when it comes to population. In the mid-1800s when a gold rush started, prospectors flocked to Montana to strike it rich. And a few lucky miners really hit the jackpot. More than a few, actually. For a time in the 1880s, Montana—specifically the area around the capital Helena—had more millionaires per capita than any other place on Earth. It’s National Montana Day, when we celebrate the aptly named Treasure State and all its natural beauty, particularly its big sky. Did you know that history’s most famous magician, Harry Houdini was also a real life ghostbuster? When he wasn’t on stage performing, he devoted his time to proving that ghosts didn’t exist. In particular, he regularly exposed psychics and spiritual mediums as frauds. Houdini once gave his wife a secret phrase that only they knew and told her he would contact her from the afterlife if such a thing were possible. Though she held many seances after his death, she never did hear from Harry the ghost. If you are naturally curious like Mulder and Scully then this is your day to explore hair raising videos. On National Paranormal Day we celebrate all things spooky and supernatural, and remind you that the truth is out there. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to May 2, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a month of pedaling and smelly food. You’ve probably seen the old-fashioned bicycle known as the penny-farthing but didn’t know it by name. This very silly looking bike has a huge front wheel, with a seat and handlebars on top, and a tiny wheel behind it. It got the name because the wheels reminded people of the penny and farthing British coins, one of which was big and the other small by comparison. The style seems wildly impractical now—which it is—but there was a time when this bike was all the rage. Because of its large wheel, it moved faster than other bikes and handled better on rough surfaces. However, if you fell…let’s just say it was not pleasant from that height. Whatever style of bicycle you prefer during National Bike Month, hop on and start pedaling! If you’re a fan of all things chocolate, then the word “truffle” brings to mind rich, decadent candy. But if you’re a connoisseur of the fungus kind then you know truffles are a culinary treat. Truffles are mushrooms that grow underground, and when they are ready for harvesting, they give off an odor that is best detected by a pig or a dog. This pungent aroma is what gives them their characteristic flavor and ridiculously high price. But buyer beware; most truffles lose this flavor after only four days! For a product that fetches up to $350 an ounce, the market can be full of counterfeits. It’s best to buy them from a reputable supplier. Or better yet, celebrate National Truffle Day by dining out at your favorite fancy restaurant. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to May 1, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate nursery rhymes and sweet success. We all grew up learning rhymes about a cat playing a fiddle and little piggies going to the market, but probably never questioned where they came from. To be honest, the origin of nursery rhymes isn’t really clear, since they were passed down by word of mouth for centuries. The first time these children’s poems were collected in print was in the book Tales of My Mother Goose way back in 1695. And over the years, that title got turned into the name of an author—the most beloved poet who never existed. If you happen to see cows jumping over the moon or find that your flatware ran off with your plates today, don’t worry! It’s just National Mother Goose Day! When life hands you lemons, you make lemonade. The first Sunday of May invites you to visit the website lemonadeday.org to find new ways to inspire young people and their lemonade stand businesses. This organization teaches them to first, set a goal, second, make a plan, third, work the plan and fourth, achieve your dream. Of course you’ll want to get a jump start on the planning so your kids can have every opportunity to succeed. What better way to learn about running a small business than by starting one? On National Lemonade Day don’t forget to kick back and sip the juicy rewards! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to April 30, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate healthy treats and a wascally wabbit. It seems there’s an oddball in every group, even when it comes to cookies. People go crazy for chocolate chip and snickerdoodle, but that’s not the case for oatmeal cookies. Some people turn up their noses at the very idea. But come on—you get to eat sweets AND something healthy at the same time. How many desserts can make that claim? On National Oatmeal Cookie Day, celebrate having your cookie and your good health too. And I would like to point out that it’s also National Raisin Day. Can’t these two factions join up? Are there really kid’s with a box of raisins celebrating in a corner when they could be hanging out with the cookie kids? Sounds like a mom made that up! What’s up, Doc? Today we celebrate one of the most famous cartoon characters - that wascally wabbit otherwise known as Bugs Bunny. Since his debut in the 1940’s cartoon “A Wild Hare,” Bugs has appeared in more films than any other animated character and even has his own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Everyone knows and loves this wise-guy rabbit with the Brooklyn accent, except of course for Daffy Duck and Elmer Fudd. These guys are off plotting revenge for being the butt of all his jokes. Or maybe they’re just jealous that they don’t have their own National Days. Cue up some Looney Tunes and grab some carrots with a side of sarcasm. It’s National Bugs Bunny Day! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to April 29, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate cool inventions and crazy trees. Zippers are something that we use almost daily but probably don’t give much thought. This essential but overlooked part of our lives was invented in 1851 by Elias Howe, the same man who invented the sewing machine. But the idea didn’t become popular until 1917 when Gideon Sundback reworked the design. At first, the zipper was used only for boots and purses, but then it caught on with the fashion industry and the rest is history. On National Zipper Day, celebrate by wearing something you haven’t worn in a while. But no buttons, please. Zip-up clothes only. While many plants and animals adapt to their environment, one of the strangest cases is the Monkey Puzzle Tree from Chile. It’s been around for over 200 million years, which speaks to its unique adaptation. Having grown up around active volcanoes, the Monkey Puzzle Tree developed fire-resistant bark. Its branches are very spiky and would cause monkeys to pause before climbing one, hence the name. Although individual trees can live up to 700 years, the species ended up on the endangered list due to logging and mining throughout the Andes Mountains. On National Arbor Day, take notice of the trees around you and all they have to offer. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to April 28, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate heroes both fictional and in real-life. Marvel Comics debuted its first superhero in October 1939. His name was the Human Torch, an android with a design flaw. Any time he is exposed to oxygen, he bursts into flame. Seems like something that should’ve been caught earlier in the design process, but what do I know? The Human Torch fought alongside Captain America in WWII, so you’d think that would get the character a lot of respect in the world of comic books. Not really. He still exists, but fans have never seemed very interested. There’s even a character in the Fantastic Four who has the same powers and name. Poor ol’ Torch. On National Superhero Day, we celebrate heroes both fictional and in real-life. BraveHearts for Kids is an organization that helps save the lives of children. It provides information, hope, guidance, and resources to families dealing with a childhood cancer crisis. They offer their services at no cost, and additionally, 100% of individual contributions go to the programs that support kids. This includes emergency fundraising and 1-on-1 mentoring. They match families with a mentor who has experienced a similar diagnosis and crisis with a child of their own. On National BraveHearts Day we remind you to show your support anyway you can and know that doing good anywhere does good everywhere. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to April 27, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the Sultan of Swat and spinning a yarn with the best of them. The word “Ruthian” is used to describe a sports feat that is so incredible, it seems almost impossible. The word is a tribute to the legendary Babe Ruth. When he joined the New York Yankees in 1920, the record for home runs in a season was 27. That season he hit 54. Over the next 14 years, he led the league in home runs 12 times. And because of his all or nothing style, he also led the league in strikeouts 5 times as well. The Sultan of Swat was honored on April 27, 1947 before a crowd of 60,000 with his very own National Day. On National Babe Ruth Day, we celebrate a true American hero, who taught us to go big or go home. The art of storytelling has been around since the dawn of time. Before we had writing, history was passed on through stories. These days you can find almost any tale online, but there is a particular joy in hearing one told firsthand. Luckily, the real McCoy still walks the streets of Kingman, AZ in storyteller Jim Hinckley. Jim has made an international name for himself with 18 books, lectures and a recorded walking tour, but he is equally happy to guide you one on one. His tagline is “Telling people where to go since 1992.” The good natured soul in a cowboy hat is literally brimming with a love for history. You may have your own resident storyteller but here at the Gateway to Route 66, Jim is up for an adventure and happy to take you with him. On National Tell A Story Day, celebrate the art of spinning a yarn with someone who knows it best. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to April 26, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate big discoveries and shaking things up. There are many one-named celebrities out there, but none as big as Sue. She’s a big deal. Literally. Sue the T. Rex is the largest and most intact fossil of the dinosaur species ever found. The discovery was made in the South Dakota Badlands in 1990 by Susan Hendrickson, who lent the T Rex her name. Sue (the dinosaur, not the person) is over 40 feet long and 13 feet tall at the hip. The fossil was in such good shape that museums got into a bidding war over it. When all was said and done, Sue the T Rex sold for over $2.5 million. On National South Dakota Day, celebrate the Mount Rushmore State from the Badlands to the Black Hills and everything in between. The West Coast of the United States is a beautiful place that has seen its fair share of earthquakes. In fact, the earthquake that rocked San Francisco in 1906 is one of the biggest on record. The state’s frequent seismic activity inspired Charles Richter to develop a way to measure them. This formula, which we know as the Richter Scale, records the magnitude of earthquakes and earth tremors. It’s roughly based on a factor of 10. In other words, a Category 4 earthquake isn’t a small increase from Category 3, it’s ten times the size. Thanks to his work, scientists are able to categorize and study the phenomenon that literally shakes things up. On National Richter Scale Day, we celebrate the guy who helps us get a grip on an otherwise rocky world. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to April 25, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate ringing up old friends and weird science. The first call ever made on a telephone lasted only a couple seconds. But the duration didn’t matter to its inventor Alexander Graham Bell, who was ecstatic that his device worked. But he would’ve positively freaked out if he witnessed the call between two Harvard University students in 2012. Eric Brewster and Avery Leonard spoke on the phone for a record-setting 46 hours, 12 minutes, and 52 seconds. So what were they talking about? Everything. It was part of an art installation and by the time the call was over, it’s safe to say they were probably ready for lots of silence. On National Telephone Day, celebrate by ringing up an old friend to catch up. We’ve all heard stories about children switched at birth, but this story takes the cake. When Lydia Fairchild, a pregnant mother of two found herself in an economic pinch, she decided to apply for government assistance. Imagine her surprise when a DNA test revealed that her children were not her own. She was so upset by the implications of fraud that she asked for a government witness to be present at the birth of her third child. Now here’s where it gets strange. An immediate test of the newborn confirmed that the child was not Lydia’s either. This case had experts so baffled until science determined that Lydia was a “chimera.” She herself had absorbed her own twin while developing in utero and it was her twin’s DNA that showed up during testing. On National DNA Day, celebrate the weird science that may only reveal one piece of the truth. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to April 24, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the pets in our hearts and pigs in a blanket. Audrey Hepburn was one of the first celebrities to go everywhere in public with her dog. Mr. Famous, her Yorkshire Terrier, was along for photo shoots and Hollywood events. This wasn’t common practice at the time and it helped make pets seem more like family. When asked why her dog was always with her, Hepburn said “I walk my dog to keep me fit. I talk to my dog, which keeps me sane.” Pet parents everywhere can likely relate. There’s nothing quite like a furry friend to make you feel better at the end of a long day. On National Pet Parents Day, we celebrate the special bond between people and their pets. If you’ve ever paid attention to the party food that disappears faster than any other snack on the buffet table, then you’ll know: it’s pigs in a blanket. Why are these tiny hotdogs wrapped in dough so darned popular? Maybe it’s because they remind us of childhood: baseball games with our dad, or the time your family went to the state fair. Or maybe it’s because there’s some magic formula that makes eating a dozen of them feel better than downing a full-sized hotdog! On National Pigs In A Blanket Day, throw yourself a party and celebrate making these piggies disappear. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to April 22, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate our natural world and the beans that everyone adores. Scientists refer to Earth’s location in our solar system as a “Goldilocks Zone.” In other words, it’s just right. Any closer or farther from the sun and the temperature on Earth wouldn’t be able to host life. No other planet we know of has this exact combination of factors that make a prime place for humans. We are living on a bonafide miracle. Clean water, breathable air, and animals of every shape and size. All perfect. National Earth Day is a time to better appreciate the natural world around us and to take steps to keep it as bright and vibrant as it can be. Lots of innovations have come about during wartime. Jet engines, duct tape, digital cameras, even candy. During the early days of the United States Civil War, William Schrafft was working on creating a new type of sweet. He wanted to make something chewy that could be easily shipped and stored. Jellied candy such as Turkish Delights had been popular for centuries but it was sticky and didn’t travel well. Then he got the idea to add a hard coating, similar to the one used on Marcona almonds. And voila, the jelly bean was born. This new candy soon became a popular treat to send to Union soldiers. And civilians were pretty excited about them too. On National Jelly Bean Day, enjoy a handful of these colorful, all American sweets. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to April 21, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate high fives and a garden for kids. If you’ve ever given someone a high five—and who hasn’t?—you can thank the Los Angeles Dodgers. On October 2, 1977, Dusty Baker hit a home run to put the Dodgers ahead of the Philadelphia Phillies in their playoff game. As he crossed home plate, his teammate Glenn Burke ran toward him with a hand in the air and slapped Baker’s raised hand. This perfect bonding moment is widely regarded as the first ever High Five. The gesture has become so ubiquitous that it now feels like second nature in a moment of celebration. On National High Five Day, celebrate by putting your hands in the air and passing on the joy to a friend. If you really want to get crazy, go for the double high five. Most of us know that kindergarten is where kids make the leap from learning at home to learning at school. This very important stage of child development was recognized by a German teacher, Friedrich Wilhelm August Frobel in 1837. He is credited with starting the first kindergarten in Blankenburg, Germany. Realizing that children learn through play and experience, his class was designed to ease the transition at this crucial stage of life. Here in the United States, the first kindergarten was opened in Watertown, Wisconsin in 1856, but it wasn’t formally adopted nationwide until 1873. On National Kindergarten Day, we celebrate those special first teachers who make a difference in the lives of our children. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to April 20, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a mysterious fruit and a cake that says Aloha. Today we celebrate one of the most popular fruits in the world. The banana. But despite how common it is, our friend the banana has been keeping plenty of secrets. First of all, they grow from bulbs not seeds. Also they are technically considered berries. And did you know that they don’t grow on trees? It turns out that banana “trees” are actually big herbs. What else are they hiding? Well, in the early 1900s, bananas became such a hot commodity that war broke out between the United States and Honduras! Thankfully we came to a peaceful resolution. On National Banana Day, we celebrate this international fruit that was once a hotbed of controversy. Pineapples have been a symbol of hospitality for centuries and for this reason they are given to guests as a present. The problem is that not everyone knows how to carve this spiky fruit. Pineapple upside down cake to the rescue! With its sweet caramelized topping and cherries peeking through the golden rings, your guests will know you thought of them and baked a perfect cake. The origins of this cake date back hundreds of years to when folks cooked in cast iron skillets. A simple way to bake was to line the skillet with fruit and pour batter over the top. When the cake is done it is inverted on a platter and the results bring an instant smile to camp chefs and home cooks alike. On National Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Day, celebrate friendship with a cake that says Aloha, no matter where you live. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to April 19, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the Peace Garden State and peace of mind for garlic lovers. When you think of places associated with Italian food, North Dakota is probably the last thing that comes to mind. But consider this: each year, Americans eat nearly 6 billion pounds of pasta. Pasta is made from durum wheat and 80% of that wheat is grown in North Dakota. According to statistics from the North Dakota Wheat Commission, the state produces enough wheat to supply each person in the United States with over 90 pounds of pasta annually. Think about that the next time you’re eating a plate of spaghetti. On National North Dakota Day, we celebrate The Peace Garden State and all its citizens, especially our very own Marlo Anderson! For date nights, it’s best to avoid eating anything with garlic in it. Unless your date involves hunting vampires. Folktales and superstitions vary around the world, but one of the things most everyone agrees on is that garlic is a good vampire deterrent. These blood suckers supposedly have heightened senses, which would explain why they would hate the smell so much. But there may be more to the legend. Garlic has medicinal properties and traditionally has been pretty easy to come by, even for the poor. So what better way to keep people from freaking out about monsters than to tell them some everyday item could keep them safe? On National Garlic Day, enjoy some of this delicious seasoning and leave monster hunting to the professionals. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to April 18, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate good advice and a box full of fun. Every family seems to have someone who likes to dispense advice to everyone else. The Friedman family of Sioux City, Iowa had two—twin girls Pauline and Esther. The world knows them better as the famous newspaper columnists Abigail Van Buren and Ann Landers, respectively. For decades, these two women published advice columns and helped Americans sort through delicate matters dealing with work, romance, and family life. When the original Abby retired, her daughter took over and continues answering readers’ letters to this day using the pseudonym. It’s National Columnists’ Day, when we celebrate the writers and reporters who entertain and inform us throughout the year. When animal crackers were first made by the Stauffer Biscuit Company in 1871, they came in barrels and had very little detail. The fun shapes caught on in America, however, and were reimagined by the Nabisco Company in 1902. The red box with a string handle became known as Barnum’s Animals after the iconic circus showman. Originally, the box was made as a Christmas ornament and to this day they are made with a handle for hanging. Barnum’s Animals remain a fan favorite and perhaps that’s because the more than 37 different animals are stamped with impressive detail. Only one of these stands out from the rest, as the only animal that’s depicted wearing pants. Who knows why the monkey is special, but on National Animal Crackers Day we celebrate this sweet box of nostalgia that still has a place in our hearts. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to April 17, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate family history and an egg roll for everyone. Ellis Island’s immigration office opened on January 1st 1892, and became the point of entry for Europeans coming into the United States. The first person to pass through its gates was Annie Moore, a 15 year old girl from Ireland. She and her two younger brothers began what would become a mass migration from Europe. Over the next 6 decades, more than 12 million immigrants entered the country through Ellis Island. This facility is no longer in service, but it is a museum that pays homage to the brave men and women who came to America in search of building better lives. We celebrate National Ellis Island Family History Day by remembering this important era of American history and by tracing our own family stories through it. Kids have been rolling eggs down hill in celebration of Easter for decades. In Washington, DC Capitol Hill was the best in town. However, the festivities were so disruptive that in 1876 Congress passed a law to keep trespassers off the property. Two years later, President Rutherford B Hayes and his wife Lucy invited all the local children to roll their eggs on the South Lawn of the White House instead, and it’s been an Easter tradition ever since. The ceremonies and circumstances have changed a bit over the years. Kids now use wooden eggs rather than the hard boiled variety, but the contest itself is the same, roll an Easter egg down the hill and have a good laugh about it with your friends. On Easter Sunday, we celebrate many things, but especially the joy we can find through celebrating together. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to April 16, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate unlikely poets and eggstraordinary breakfast. There have been many strange and eccentric poets over the centuries, but none quite like Archy the Cockroach. This little guy was the reincarnation of a nameless poet who found his way into the office of newspaper columnist Don Marquis. One night, Archy started writing poetry by jumping from key to key on the typewriter there. All of his poems are written in lowercase because he couldn’t push the shift key and the letter keys at the same time. If you’re not impressed by poetry from a bug who can write, there are literally millions of other poets to check out during National Poetry Month. Human, insect, or otherwise. It has been said that “Eggs Benedict” was named for Pope Benedict XIII, who requested the dish often. Then there’s the story of Mrs. LeGrand Benedict who couldn’t decide what to order while dining at Delmonicos in New York. The chef came up with a similar recipe and claims to have named it after her. Finally there’s Lemuel Benedict, a Wall Street Broker who ordered buttered toast, two poached eggs, bacon and hollandaise sauce. Apparently, it was such a winning combination that it went on the menu at the Waldorf hotel, which begs the question, which Benedict came first? On National Eggs Benedict Day, there’s no need to quibble. Enjoy this dish that is fit for anyone with eggstraordinary taste. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to April 15, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the ripple effect and taking a wild guess. Today marks the 110th anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic, one of the greatest tragedies in modern history. There are many stories of that fateful night, but one of the most inspiring is that of the ship’s band, led by Wallace Hartley. As the Titanic slowly submerged, the band played on, doing its best to calm the nerves of the panicked travelers. Even as their own fates became certain, the musicians kept on, leading people in a chorus of hymns. The few survivors remembered this selfless act, and when Hartley’s body was recovered, he was celebrated as a hero. Over 30,000 people paid their respects at his funeral. On National Titanic Remembrance Day, we reflect on our own ripple effect and the small acts that may also be remembered. Marlo: Hey Anna did you know that it’s National Take a Wild Guess Day? Wanna play Take A Wild Guess? The unicorn is the National Animal of which country? Anna: Okay, can you name the largest living organism on planet earth? I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to April 14, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate creative gardens and unusual life guards. One of the most beautiful and unique gardens you’ll ever see is in Fresno, California. But you’ll have to look underground to find it. In 1906, Sicilian immigrant Baldasare Forestiere began excavating a series of caves and passageways inspired by the Catacombs he’d seen in Rome as a child. Over the 40 years he worked on the complex, he planted trees and flowers as he went. Oranges, lemons, grapefruits, and more exotic trees are scattered throughout the rooms, growing thanks to skylights that provide plenty of sunshine even though some rooms are more than 25 feet under ground. On National Gardening Day, celebrate by showing off your green thumb and maybe even your creativity. Few things in the animal kingdom inspire the spirit of playfulness more than the dolphin. But what’s most amazing are the countless stories of wild dolphins saving humans in open waters. A young boy in Southern Italy was saved from drowning by a dolphin known as Filippo. A pod of dolphins circled a shark bitten surfer, until he was able to make it back to the California shore. And a group of 12 divers who found themselves surrounded by sharks in The Red Sea, were attended to by a pod of wild dolphins for 13 hours! Not only did the dolphins keep the sharks at bay, they also showed the rescue boat where each diver was until all the humans had been saved. On National Dolphin Day, we celebrate these aquatic wonders that appear to be man’s best ocean friend. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to April 13, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a presidential lunch and the world’s favorite word game. Thomas Jefferson was a true renaissance man. He wrote the Declaration of Independence. During his presidency, he doubled the size of the United States via the Louisiana Purchase. He even stocked the Library of Congress with thousands of his own books. But it’s one of his lesser-known contributions to society that still helps parents everywhere navigate the madness of feeding their kids each day. You see, Jefferson is responsible for introducing macaroni and cheese to Americans. He imported the dish from France and experimented with his own version until he got his recipe just right. It took years, but mac and cheese caught on with the public and is still around to this day, becoming a go-to for kids and those of us who are kids at heart. On National Thomas Jefferson Day celebrate with a bowl of this comfort food in honor of our 3rd President. The game of Scrabble was invented during the Great Depression by an out of work architect. For anyone who grew up on Mars, Scrabble is played with two to four players who score points by forming words from individual lettered tiles on a game board marked with a 15 by 15 grid. Since its humble beginnings, Scrabble is now played in 121 countries in 29 different languages! It was also featured as a television game show in the 1980s. The highest scoring word ever recorded in a Scrabble tournament earned a whopping 392 points. The word was spelled C A Z I Q U E S, which is a type of oriole. On National Scrabble Day, challenge someone you know to the classic board game or play online to bring out your inner word nerdiness. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to April 12, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the Centennial State and good old toasted cheese. Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado has the highest average elevation of any U.S. State, measuring in at 6,800 feet above sea level. Its capital, Denver is known as the Mile-High City, which is entirely accurate. In fact, the 13th step on the State Capitol Building has a marker to identify that it is exactly 1 mile above sea level. The thin air makes the sun feel warmer and makes alcoholic drinks feel more potent than at lower altitudes. And if you need coffee before your day skiing in the mountains, it’ll be ready much quicker because water boils faster. On National Colorado Day celebrate the Centennial State and all its natural beauty and the good old Rocky Mountain high, The invention of the grilled cheese sandwich is arguably the greatest thing since, well, sliced bread. And while folks have been toasting bread with cheese since Ancient Roman times, the American variety took off in the 1920s with the invention of the first bread slicer. Just prior to that JL Kraft and Brothers began making its processed cheese, or as the English called it, rat trap cheese. They are, of course, partial to their cheddar. But here in the States, the grilled cheese sandwich took off with these two inventions and today they’re considered classic comfort food. If you’re in the mood to be fancy, add some sliced apples, bacon or brie. But whatever you’re craving on National Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day, enjoy a crunchy, melty morsel of comfort food deliciousness, with or without the rat trap cheese. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to April 11, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate cheeky pets and amazing inventions. Pets and their owners form a special bond that others can’t truly understand. Animals often pick up mannerisms from their humans, developing very unique personalities of their own. Take, for example, Poll—President Andrew Jackson’s beloved parrot. When Jackson passed away in 1845, thousands came to pay their respects—and someone brought the parrot. And, as the minister described it: “Before the sermon…a wicked parrot…got excited and commenced swearing so loud and long as to disturb the people and had to be carried from the house.” On National Pet Day, spend some extra time with your favorite animals, just watch what you say around them. We think of the submarine as a fairly modern invention, and with good reason. The technology involved in keeping a ship underwater while providing humans with air is pretty complicated. However, the first working model of a submarine was actually created in England in 1620. Cornelis Drebbel, a Dutch engineer, built what he called a “diving boat,” a wooden vessel that could travel underwater. It used greased leather to keep air in and was propelled by oars. He showed off this invention in London and traveled along the Thames River at a depth of 15 feet. The trip only lasted about 9 miles, but considering the technology, it was wildly impressive. On National Submarine Day, we celebrate an invention that still seems amazing! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to April 10, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the animals that help us every day and our family frenemies. Today we celebrate sounders, broods, trips, and herds. In case you don’t have a dictionary handy, those are the group names of pigs, chickens, goats, and cows. Farm animals. These domesticated critters have helped to feed humans for thousands of years and are still integral to this day. Without them, we wouldn’t have milk, eggs, or most of the food staples we rely on everyday. At least on small farms, the livestock are as important as the crops. On National Farm Animals Day, celebrate your own gratitude for the farm to table critters that we couldn’t do without. Today we celebrate our best friends, who are at times our worst enemies. No matter how you remember your childhood, there are no greater allies in life than your siblings. Claudia Evart created Siblings Day in 1995 and it has been a top trending day ever since. Having lost a brother and a sister in her youth, the native New Yorker realized the important role that siblings play in our lives. In other parts of the world such as India, Spain and France there are celebrations for brothers and sisters that honor this special bond. Here in the United States, more than 80 percent of us have siblings and this day is about giving them an extra special shout out with presents, hugs or by posting childhood photos on social media. On National Siblings Day, share your favorite memories with those you love, even if they still make you crazy. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to April 9, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate great orators and magical beasts. British Prime Minister Winston Churchill was one of history’s most gifted public speakers. His strong oratory skills and sense of humor helped lead Great Britain through World War II. His voice made such an impact that Mr. Churchill was awarded The Nobel Prize in Literature in 1953 for “his mastery of historical and biographical description as well as for brilliant oratory in defending exalted human values.” Not bad for a kid who grew up with a lisp and who was extremely uncomfortable in public settings. On National Winston Churchill Day, celebrate this master of the English language by revisiting some of his most classic quotes. Like: ”The greatest lesson in life is to know that even fools are right sometimes." The unicorn appears in many natural history texts from ancient times and is generally described as a single horned goat or horse. While the descriptions vary widely, all seem to grant the beast a magical quality. All except Marco Polo. He describes a brutish beast, who prefers to wallow in the mud, with hair like a buffalo and feet like an elephant. With a large black horn in the center of its boar-like head, this creature was hardly the stuff of legend to be tamed by a maiden of purity. We have since determined that Marco Polo was describing a rhinoceros. Thankfully the mythical creature still inspires frappuccinos, slippers and bathrobes. On National Unicorn Day, celebrate your own kind of magic. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to April 8, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate hot guitars and original zoos. For his entire career, BB King played a black Gibson guitar named Lucille. But where did the name come from? In 1949, a fire broke out at the Arkansas club where King was playing. Two men were fighting and knocked over a kerosene heater, setting the club ablaze. After getting to safety, BB realized he’d left his guitar inside and ran back to get it. He found out later that the men had been fighting over a woman named Lucille and he bestowed his guitar with the name. April is International Guitar Month, so show a little love to your own guitar or listen to your favorite musician. People have been fascinated by animals for centuries with the oldest public zoo opening in Vienna in 1752. The Holy Roman Emperor himself traveled around the globe to find the exotic animals that would be displayed there. Here in the United States, the Central Park Zoo began as an accidental menagerie when a bear cub was left at the park in 1859. The bear attracted visitors and eventually more exotic animals turned up at Central Park. A formal zoo charter was granted in 1864 and even President Lincoln donated animals. With about 2,400 zoos in the United State alone, lions and tigers and bears are practically in your own backyard. On National Zoo Lovers Day, celebrate a trip around the animal kingdom in one easy stroll. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to April 7, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate big burritos and a beer lover’s dream More after the break. If you’re going to eat a burrito, it might as well be a big one. Anyone who happened to be in La Paz, Mexico in 2010 was greeted with a big burrito—the biggest one ever. This monster was made with a single flour tortilla that stretched nearly a mile and a half and weighed over 2 tons. A special machine was created to roll out the tortilla and 3,000 volunteers filled it with fish, onion, chilis, and refried beans. On National Burrito Day, pull out all the stops. If it can fit inside a tortilla, it’s fair game. Niels Bohr was born in Copenhagen, Denmark in 1885. At a young age, he developed a love for science and learning and in 1922, he won the Nobel Prize in Physics. His work paved the way for Atomic Research and many of the scientific advancements of the modern world. And after his big win, he got what some would consider an even better prize. Niels was a huge beer lover, so the Carlsberg brewing company in his hometown of Copenhagen gave him free beer. Lots of it! They gave him a house right next to the brewery, with a direct pipeline into his kitchen. In short, he had an endless supply of Carlsberg beer on tap whenever he wanted it. On National Beer Day, raise a glass to a man who got to live every beer lover’s dream. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to April 6, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate sweet success and a happy accident. When German immigrants Frederick and Louis Ruckheim first sold their caramel popcorn in Chicago, they had no idea what a huge success it would be. According to legend, one customer loved the snack so much that he exclaimed “That’s a crackerjack!” which meant it was pretty awesome. And that name stuck. The brothers called the new treat Cracker Jack and it soon became a favorite with people across the country. However, the thing that really put Cracker Jack on the map was the song “Take Me Out to the Ballgame.” It’s one thing to have people buying your product, but it’s another to have an entire stadium full of sports fans singing “buy me some peanuts and Cracker Jack.” On National Caramel Popcorn Day, enjoy this classic snack. Watching a baseball game is optional. In 1938, Dr. Plunkett, a chemist for DuPont, was working on an idea for refrigeration when he stumbled upon the formula for polytetrafluro ethylene. He and his assistant discovered that this waxy material was resistant to corrosion. This is why it was first used in the Manhattan Project to produce the atomic bomb. Later it was styled into the Happy Pan, which created a slippery surface that proved to be better than cooking oil. Today, teflon reduces friction in fabric, aerospace fuel tanks and medical devices. On National Teflon Day, we celebrate this Hall of Fame discovery that helps us give the brush off to anything sticky. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to April 5, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate awesome artifacts and inventions that help us celebrate far into the future. One of the biggest fossil discoveries in the United States was thanks to a bunch of chickens. When Nebraska farmer Henry Kariger noticed that his chickens were gathered in one spot on his farm, he went over to see what they were pecking at. It appeared to be a patch of minerals, but it turned out to be part of a mammoth fossil. And that fossil turned out to be the largest mammoth ever found intact. It was dubbed Archie and it’s on display at the University of Nebraska State Museum to this day. On National Nebraska Day celebrate the Cornhusker State and maybe have a wander over to check out Archie the mammoth. Today we celebrate something that hasn’t happened yet. According to Star Trek lore, a scientist will create the first warp drive engine in 2063 and meet aliens for the very first time. Thanks to Zephram Cochran’s invention, humans become friends with Vulcans and the far ends of the galaxy are finally within reach. Without the warp drive, Kirk would’ve never left Riverside, Iowa and Picard would still be working in his family vineyards. Celebrate First Contact Day just like Mr. Cochran—with some cheese pierogis and some classic rock. Live long and prosper! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to April 4, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate tasty nutrition and the spirit of adventure. As long as humans have sailed the seas, they’ve had to worry about things like weather and staying on course. But no one ever thought about vitamins. In past centuries, one of the biggest threats for sailors was lack of nutrition. It seems like such a simple thing now, but it wasn’t until the mid 1800s that people realized that Vitamin C could prevent scurvy. Today, it’s easy to get your fix. Grab a glass of orange juice or snack on some clementines today. You can even find cosmetics that feature this beauty supplement. On National Vitamin C Day celebrate a supplement that tastes great and keeps you from being a scurvy sailor. Few vehicles have carved out a place in American history quite like the Jeep 4x4. It replaced the horse during WWII and helped the Allies turn the tide! Jeep’s “go anywhere, do anything” ability personified the American Can Do Spirit. To our troops, the Jeep was second only to their rifle in order of importance. Maybe that’s why it still inspires record breaking feats like the pair of Jeep Wranglers that summited a volcano of more than 22,000 feet. Or the Guinness Book holder for the longest parade which included 2,420 Jeeps in Bantam, Pennsylvania. On Jeep 4x4 Day celebrate the vehicle that was made for great adventures. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to April 3, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate epic parties and film scores. When Edward Russell became head of the British Navy in 1694, he knew it was something to celebrate. And celebrate he did—by inviting 5,000 sailors and naval officers to his home for a big bash. Like really big. He drained the fountain at his estate, then filled it with a cocktail of brandy, Malaga wine, sugar, lemons, and spices. According to witnesses, bartenders paddled around the fountain in canoes to serve guests. The party lasted nearly a week, until the drinks ran out. On World Party Day, make an excuse to celebrate with your friends by throwing an impromptu soiree, but try to end at a reasonable time, will ya? It’s a school night, sailor. It’s no surprise that the main event in any movie is its visual effects. The part of the film we tend to overlook is the music score, which builds tension and sets the mood. Imagine for a moment the movie Jaws. You see the ripple in the darkened water, the swimmer struggles against their mounting fear and all the while you hear… Not quite the same, is it? On National Film Score Day celebrate those iconic notes that play a starring role and enjoy your own classic film score today. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to April 2, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate surprisingly helpful pets and everyone’s favorite mash-up. When we think of domesticated animals, dogs, horses, and cows spring to mind. But one overlooked animal helper is the ferret. Around 2,500 years ago, these furry little critters were trained to help farmers keep rodents away from grain storage. Their long, slim bodies give ferrets the ability to easily get into holes, which allows them to chase rabbits and rodents from their burrows. Incidentally, this is where we get the expression “ferret out.” Plus, ferrets are very loyal and generally quiet too, which makes them great pets. On National Ferret Day, celebrate a pet that has more than a fuzzy appeal. Peanut butter and jelly got its start in the early 1900s. While we think of it as kid stuff, it was sold in New York’s finest tea rooms. But in the 1920s the price of peanut butter fell, making it more family friendly. During World War II, peanut butter was one of the only foods that wasn’t rationed. It was the perfect packable lunch for soldiers, especially with a layer of jelly that kept them from gluing their mouths shut. The winning combination earned its stripes in 1968 when the JM Smucker Company started jarring Goober. This mashup of alternating layers is still sold around the world today. On National Peanut Butter And Jelly Day, get your mitts on an all time favorite that satisfies the kid in everyone. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to April 1, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate good gags and wild crafted dough. No one is really sure how playing pranks on April 1st each year became a tradition. One theory links it to the reign of Roman Emperor Constantine. Every year, the Emperor made one of his jesters king for the day. A jester named Kugel was dubbed king and he established what we call April Fools’ Day. The best part of that story? It was just an April Fool’s joke. Boston University professor Joseph Boskin made it up in 1983 and the Associated Press ate it up hook, line, and sinker. It’s April Fool’s Day, so try to not become the butt of a joke. We dare you to be on the offensive instead! Did you know that the world’s oldest, leavened bread gets its magic from friendly bacteria that’s wild at heart? That’s right! Sourdough’s the name, and its characteristic flavor comes from lactobacillus and un-cultured yeast. During the gold rush this food staple was so popular with prospectors it earned them the nickname The Sourdoughs. Word has it that they kept the sourdough warm by carrying it tucked inside their shirts. And because they were mostly found in San Francisco, the city still bakes up some of the tastiest loaves around. On National Sourdough Bread Day crack open a loaf of golden-crusted goodness. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to March 31st, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate PR for tators and the King of crayons. The potato was not a hit when it landed in Europe for the first time. It took some PR from physician Antoine-Augustin Parmentier to give the vegetable its due. As strange as it may sound, Parmentier leveraged his relationship with the king and queen to get potatoes into the public eye. He gifted the royal couple some potato blossoms at an event in Versailles. The queen put some in her hair and the king put one in his buttonhole. When the other nobles in attendance saw the flowers, they followed suit and soon potatoes were a hot topic of conversation. On National Tater Day, take a bite of this tasty tuber and be grateful that someone thought to plant them in the culinary hot bed of the Old World. Every kid knows the kaleidoscope of colors found in a box of Crayola crayons. The company makes dozens of hues, allowing tiny artists to decorate refrigerators around the world. Oddly enough, Emerson Moser, Crayola’s senior crayon maker, was color blind! He could see color, but couldn’t differentiate between blues and greens. When he retired from Crayola after 37 years on the job, he’d created nearly 1.5 billion crayons. His boots, which had become coated with colorful wax over the years, were donated to the Crayola Hall of Fame. On National Crayon Day, break out a box of creative color and be grateful for all the hues you can see. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to March 30th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate sharp pencils and doctors with a point. In 2007, writer Keith Eldred set out to write a novel. Specifically To Kill a Mockingbird. You’re thinking…what? That book was already written. But Eldred was trying to prove a point—he wanted to see how long he could write with one ordinary #2 pencil. He was able to rewrite the entire text to Harper Lee’s famous novel using only one. And when it got down to only a tiny nib, Keith had to splice it together with another pencil in order to hold it. He did manage to transcribe all 100,388 words. On National Pencil Day, celebrate the writing implement that can still go the distance. In ancient times, indigenous tribes believed that illness was caused by evil spirits or magic. They called on a medicine man to expel these spirits and this was the basis for healing. Hippocrates dispelled this myth and became the father of modern medicine in ancient Greece. He viewed illness as a physical, rather than a supernatural notion, and helped to move the needle forward. No pun intended. Another doctor made a significant stride on this day in 1842. Crawford Long M.D. administered the first ether anesthesia during a surgery and the patient reported feeling no pain. On National Doctors Day, we honor countless medical professionals for their contributions throughout the ages. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to March 29th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the Silver State and a Golden Cake. Nevada is well known for its casinos and tourist attractions, but it’s also home to something not nearly as lively. Ghost towns. Because of its mining history, the state has over 600 of them. One of the most interesting is Berlin, Nevada. Not only will you find the remains of a mining community, with abandoned buildings and a cemetery, but also something much much older. The remains of Ichthyosaurs, aquatic dinosaurs that lived in the oceans covering the state 225 million years ago. The fossils are on display in the museum at the state park. On National Nevada Day, we celebrate the Silver State and its long standing history. The recipe for chiffon cake was a closely guarded secret for decades. While angel food cake was already popular in the 1920s, Henry Baker believed it could be better. The insurance salesman turned caterer worked feverishly on his combination of ingredients. Then in 1927 he stumbled on the perfect method for creating a rich but airy cake. Sure that he had struck gold, Henry offered his services to the Brown Derby restaurant in Los Angeles. This place catered to the Hollywood elite and for the next 20 years, Henry’s claim to fame was being the only person to bake this proprietary recipe. Finally, in 1947 he sold it to General Mills for an undisclosed amount. On National Lemon Chiffon Cake Day celebrate a golden bite of baking history that’s too good to keep all to yourself. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to March 28th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate strange facts and spooky cakes. After Prohibition, former bootlegger George Boyington moved to Oregon to embark on a legitimate career. He opened a hotdog stand on Rockaway Beach, which became very popular with tourists. But when his entire inventory of buns was ruined in a storm, it looked as if he might go out of business. He needed a quick solution and came up with the idea of putting hotdogs on sticks, then dipping them in batter, and deep frying them. He called the new food Pronto Pups and watched with pride as his new creation sold out. On National Something on a Stick Day, we celebrate this remarkable fact: everything tastes better on a stick! In Southeastern Germany lies the world-famous Black Forest. It’s known as the setting for several Grimm fairy tales. But many more know it because of the dessert that bears its name: Black Forest Cake. Some people may dismiss it as plain old chocolate cake, but they’re missing out entirely. This chocolate cake layered with whipped cream and topped with cherries is nothing short of magical. The star of the recipe is cherry liqueur, which is distilled in the Black Forest region of Germany and gives this cake its delicious allure. Celebrate National Black Forest Cake Day with a slice of decadence, but beware of any witches who serve it up from gingerbread houses. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to March 27th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate doodles with purpose and a good old cuppa Joe. Before we can write or even draw, one of the first things we do as kids is scribble. And as adults, the idle scribbling we do when bored can give insight into our personalities. According to researchers, if you draw squares, you’re a planner. People who like round shapes are friendly and tend to avoid conflict. Flowers indicate affinity for others and stars indicate ambition. So does this mean you should hide your drawings today on National Scribble Day? Maybe it’s time to show the world what you’re made of. Ever wonder why we call coffee a cup of Joe? During World War I, Joseph Daniels, the Secretary of the Navy, banned alcohol on naval bases. Needless to say, this didn’t always sit well with the troops. Daniels thought he could make up for it by increasing rations for coffee. But morale went from bad to worse and sailors began referring sarcastically to coffee as a cup of Joseph Daniels. This was later shortened to a cup of Joe. Today isn’t just about our favorite caffeinated drink. We also celebrate the people we know and love who have the name Joe. So on National Joe Day grab your friends Joey, Joanna and Joseph and take them to lunch or maybe grab a cup of, well, Joe. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to March 26th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate going green and Irish roots. The town of Crystal City, Texas survived the Great Depression thanks to an unlikely hero—Popeye the Sailor Man. In the 1930s, Popeye cartoons became very popular, which meant that kids everywhere saw him chomping away on his favorite snack—spinach. And, as luck would have it, Crystal City was a huge producer of spinach. Moms were thrilled that their kids wanted to eat the healthy food and business boomed as spinach was added to menus across the country. To this day, the town is known as the Spinach Capital of the World and they even have a Popeye statue erected outside city hall. On National Spinach Day, celebrate the veggie that still gives us our super strength. In the mid 1800s the Potato Famine in Ireland forced people to leave their country and many of them immigrated to the United States. The Irish had a tough go of it at first, but they managed to work their way into being respected members of the community. As a huge voting block they helped certain politicians get elected. By taking on jobs as police and firefighters, they were seen doing good deeds and the Irish became respected members of society. Since then we can count 22 American Presidents, authors, inventors, and entrepreneurs that can all claim Irish roots. During Irish American Heritage Month celebrate these indomitable folks who have added a tight knit to our cultural fabric. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to March 25th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate strange new worlds and acts of bravery. To say that JRR Tolkien had an impact on popular culture is an understatement. Without The Lord of the Rings, we might never have experienced Harry Potter or played Dungeons & Dragons. Before he wrote anything about a Hobbit, Tolkien was a professor of Old English literature and a student of language. So when he created Middle Earth, he came up with an entire history for his fictional world. And wrote not one, but FIVE different languages exclusively for the books. Quite the perfection. On Tolkien Reading Day, celebrate your favorite escape into a perfectly curated world. The Medal of Honor is bestowed upon our military for extraordinary acts of service. In the case of Teddy Roosevelt it was awarded for his acts of apparent defiance during the Spanish American War. But not until many decades later. Colonel Roosevelt grew impatient as progress was stalled on a charge of the San Juan hill. He managed to convince his immediate supervisor to allow his Rough Riders to push ahead. With only four or five men, Teddy was the first American to arrive in the Spanish trenches. This brave act turned the tide of the entire battle. Roosevelt was nominated for a Medal of Honor during his life, but wasn’t awarded it until 2001, 82 years after his death. On National Medal of Honor Day we remember the more than 3500 souls who have received this award by going above and beyond the call of duty. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to March 24th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate two origin stories with happy results. Considering how long alcohol has been part of human culture, it’s surprising that the first cocktail wasn’t invented until the 1800s. Antoine Peychaud created the Sazerac in New Orleans using cognac, sugar, absinthe, and a dash of bitters. The name Sazerac comes from the brand of French cognac that was used, but these days the primary ingredient is rye whiskey. And why do we call these drinks cocktails? Supposedly, that first cocktail was served in an egg cup—or, in French, a coquetier—a word that morphed into cocktail. On National Cocktail Day, mix yourself a glass of your favorite drink. In 1930, Pat Olivier ran a hotdog stand in Philadelphia. One afternoon, he cooked up some sliced beef on his grill and made a steak sandwich. A passing cab driver asked Pat to make him one too and he loved it so much he told all his friends. Soon the steak sandwich was the talk of the town. Nearly 20 years later someone thought to add cheese. And this is where it turned into a “Hatfields and McCoys” rivalry. Geno’s and Pat’s are two restaurants located across the street from one another and each wants to take the credit. No one is sure who actually came up with it, but on National Cheesesteak Day, everyone agrees it’s a great sandwich! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to March 23rd, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate dynamic duos and our favorite snuggling companions. If you enjoy chips and dip, you can thank a tea company for the idea. In the years following World War II, the American suburbs grew rapidly, as did the demand for food and recipes for entertaining. Lipton, the British company known for its tea, marketed its onion soup mix as a way to make dip. Just add it to some sour cream and voila!—an American snack legend was born. For a while, this became known as the California Dip, but now we just know it as good ol’ chip and dip. On National Chip and Dip Day, whip up this dynamic duo, and let the celebration begin. And if you invite your friends just be sure not to double dip. Dogs and humans have shared a bond since civilization began. They have hunted together, played together and snuggled for warmth. The expression “three dog night” comes from this practical purpose: on the coldest of nights it takes 3 dogs to keep out the chill. Having a six pack of puppies may sound like a recipe for chaos, but everyone knows there’s nothing more endearing. That’s why the organization Canine Companions for Independence trains assistance dogs for people with disabilities. And the best part is, they do it free of charge. On National Puppy Day cuddle up with your favorite pup and enjoy the sloppy kisses. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to March 22nd, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate hidden attractions and dessert for breakfast. Nestled deep in the Appalachian Mountains, you’ll find the town of White Sulphur Springs, WV. If you happen to be passing through, stop at The Greenbrier resort. It’s a gorgeous place, but the real attraction is far beneath the hotel. 720 feet below, to be exact. The Greenbrier sits atop a nuclear bunker that was commissioned by President Eisenhower. It was built big enough to house the President, members of Congress, and their staff. Though its been decommissioned since the 1990s, you can still take a tour of the massive site. On National West Virginia Day, we celebrate the majestic Mountain State, a place so beautiful it’s almost Heaven. What’s the difference between French and Bavarian Crepes? It starts with the batter. The French recipe calls for resting after mixing the ingredients, which allows the gluten in the flour to relax. And if you have time to wait, then by all means kick back, drink a glass of wine and do things the Parisian way. This makes for a lighter, more tender crepe. If you don’t mind a sturdier pancake, then get on with it already. After all, if you’re adding Bavarian Cream to the pancake why wait for tenderness? On National Bavarian Crepes Day celebrate getting to the good stuff. And if this means having dessert for breakfast, even better. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to March 21st, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the voice that launched our greatest missions and the sweet signs of Spring. One of the most famous voices in the world belonged to Jack King. You may not know the name, but likely you’ve heard of him. Jack was responsible for one of the best-known countdowns in history—the launch of Apollo 11. As people everywhere watched the Saturn V rocket take off into space en route to the Moon, it was Jack King that calmly narrated the entire event. He was the voice of many NASA countdowns, but perhaps none more important than that one in 1969. On National Countdown Day, you can start a countdown of your own…easy as 123…or should we say 3-2-1. If you’ve ever had sun ripened strawberries from a roadside stand, you’ll know why we are celebrating this delicious Springtime treat. In California, strawberry season kicks off on March 21st to coincide with the Spring equinox. Splurge on a trip to the farm if you’re close enough to pick them. While many of us are still covered in a blanket of snow, new crops of bright red fruit are just popping up in California. Who doesn’t love fresh berries on pancakes or pies? Juicy strawberries with whipped cream could almost make you run around barefoot. If you’re in the mood for some California dreaming then pick up a pint on National California Strawberry Day. Summer is only a short cake away. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to March 20th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the sweet signs of Spring and pasta turf wars. In Greek mythology, Demeter was the goddess of farming, and she loved her daughter Persephone very much. So when Hades, god of the underworld, abducted Persephone, the goddess was furious and demanded that her daughter be returned. Hades agreed, but there was a problem. Pomegranate seeds. Persephone had eaten a few during her stay and eating or drinking anything in the underworld caused a person to be trapped there forever. The gods worked out an agreement where Persephone could return to the surface world. But only for half of the year. When Persephone is away, crops die and leaves fall. But when her daughter is on Earth, Demeter is happy and everything begins to grow again. It’s a little something we like to call the start of Spring. Ravioli have been around since the 14th Century. But sometime around the 1940s a ravioli was accidentally dropped into a fryer and a new sensation was born. The incident took place in an Italian American neighborhood in St. Louis, known locally as The Hill. And here’s where it gets strange. At least three restaurants claim the accident occurred in their kitchen. All of the original owners have passed away. And the only one around to produce any proof is Sicilian, Tony Lombardo. He proudly displays Lombardo’s 1930s menu that includes the toasted rav. On National Ravioli Day get the party started by frying up your own batch of toasted ravs. Just don’t get any bright ideas about claiming you invented them. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to March 19th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the great outdoors and one man’s sweet dream. For years, American backyards were very functional. They were mainly used for gardening or as workspaces. But after World War II, people had more disposable income and moved to the suburbs. Plus, there was a surplus of materials like aluminum and concrete, which meant that it was inexpensive to build pools, patios, and lawn furniture. In short, the backyard became a place for leisure and entertaining—an extension of the living space. And now that warmer weather is returning, what better time to celebrate National Backyard Day? While Milton Hershey is best known for making chocolate, he started his confectionary career with caramel. When the World’s Colombian Exposition came to Chicago, Milton became fascinated by the machinery that made German chocolate. Deciding that milk chocolate was the way of the future, he purchased the entire exhibit and shipped it to his Pennsylvania factory. The Hershey bars we still enjoy today prove that Milton was onto something and his addition of caramel only sweetened the success. On National Chocolate Caramel Day, celebrate the legacy of Milton Hersheys sweet tooth. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to March 18th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate awkward slips and sloppy sandwiches. In 2011, Real Madrid won the Copa del Rey, Spain’s national pro soccer competition. For Spanish teams, this is on par with the Big Game or World Series. So of course fans in Madrid came out in massive numbers to celebrate. As the victory parade rolled through the city, players waved and took turns showing off the trophy. Until it got to defenseman Sergio Ramos. Who dropped it. Ramos was standing on top of a bus, holding the trophy overhead. It slipped from his hands and it crashed to the ground. Which was bad enough, but then the bus ran over it. Oops. On National Awkward Moments Day, embrace the unintended faux pas of life and be grateful that tens of millions aren’t watching you do it. A version of the sloppy joe was served at a greasy spoon diner in Sioux City, Iowa in the 1920s. They called it the steamed hamburger, which was ground beef served loose on a bun with grilled onions, pickles, ketchup and mustard. But it was a Key West bar that named this loose meat sandwich. For this we can thank none other than Ernest Hemingway, who encouraged the bar owner to rename the place after Joe, a sloppy Havana bar keeper. Joe’s place in Cuba also served a loose meat sandwich, but the American owner knew a good name when she saw it. Today more than 50,000 sandwiches are sold each year at the Sloppy Joe’s bar in Key West, Florida. Of course you can always whip one up at home on National Sloppy Joe Day. No shoes, no shirt, no problem. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to March 17th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the tale of corned beef and an Irish tradition for everyone. Corned beef is a St Patrick’s Day tradition, but why is the dish associated with Ireland? When the British ran out of land to raise cattle, the Irish started beef production as a way to make money. And the Emerald Isle became known for corned beef because of laws known as the Cattle Acts, which prohibited the export of livestock to England. This dropped the price of beef for the Irish, who finally got to taste what they’d been exporting for so long. Plus, the tax on salt was so low in Ireland that they could produce corned beef for a fraction of what others could. So why call it “corned” beef? Because the large salt crystals that were used to cure the meat were nearly the size of corn kernels. On National Corned Beef And Cabbage Day, celebrate with a delicious bite of history. Harry Truman was the first United States President to attend the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in New York City. But the parade itself has been celebrated annually since before the United States was a country. Held in 1762, the first St. Paddy’s Day parade was composed of homesick Irish immigrants living in the New York colonies. It has taken place every year since then to the delight of millions of revelers, Irish or otherwise. This time honored tradition of marching down 5th Avenue draws visitors to the Big Apple from around the globe. While things may be different in your neck of the woods, don’t miss your chance to drink green beer, while singing Danny Boy a little too loud. On St Patrick’s Day everyone enjoys being Irish. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to March 16th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate irresistible vegetables and bears. In the early 1900s, millions of Italians immigrated to the United States. And with them came the demand for foods from their homeland. One of the most popular items was the artichoke, which wasn’t easy to grow in America and had to be imported. Ciro Terranova, a New York City gangster, started a racket in which he’d force importers to sell him artichokes at a fraction of the cost. Then the Artichoke King—as he became known—would turn around and sell them to restaurants at a much higher cost. Terranova became such a problem that the mayor of New York had to outright ban the sale of artichokes until the cops could crack down. Which only made the vegetable more popular. On National Artichoke Hearts Day, we celebrate a delicacy that’s so good it’s practically criminal. National Panda Day celebrates one of the world’s most beloved bears. And if you’ve ever seen one in person, count yourself lucky. These guys like to keep to themselves. Pandas can only produce cubs every few years, so the odds are not exactly in their favor. But conservation groups take their job seriously, and research over the last three decades has revealed that by preserving bamboo forests, pandas stand a fighting chance. Contrary to the popular kung fu cartoons, pandas graze on bamboo leaves and not on steamed dumplings. They are very shy and it’s recommended that you whisper around them when visiting the zoo. On National Panda Day share your love for these rare bears that inspire people around the world. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to March 15th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate peculiar attractions and a day off for your noggin. Some things really are in the last place you’d expect to find them. Like the Garden of Eden. It’s smack dab in the middle of Kansas. Okay, it’s not the actual Garden. But… should you find yourself in Lucas, Kansas, you’ll find one of the largest—and strangest—art installations in the United States. Built in 1907 by S.P. Dinsmoor, the Garden of Eden is a series of sculptures depicting scenes from American history and the Bible. It’s an oddity and would probably have been knocked down after Dinsmoor’s passing. But people were so weirded out by the place that no one ever did. Today is National Kansas Day, when we celebrate the Sunflower State and its peculiar attractions. No one is right 100 percent of the time. Today, we pause to consider just how much we don’t know. It’s also a good day to scroll on by those social media posts that you would normally be tempted to correct. What comes around goes around and you may just get the same treatment from someone else. Besides, it’s a burden in life to be a know-it-all. So just for today, consider learning something new from the perspective of a novice. Did you know that the Canary Islands were named after dogs and not birds? Or that only three countries in the world don’t use the metric system? Of course one of them is the United States. Put your hand down smarty pants. On National Everything You Think Is Wrong Day, give your noggin the day off. You can go back to knowing everything tomorrow. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to March 14th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate endless possibilities in snacks and numbers. The origins of the potato chip are hotly contested. Some say it was George Crum, a chef that tried to appease a customer who kept sending back his “thick and soggy” potatoes. This 1853 tale claims that the customer was none other than Cornelius Vanderbilt. The story was later debunked, but one thing is more sure, Crum’s “Saratoga Chips” spread like wildfire. Today potato chips are one of the world’s most popular snacks. Around 11.2 million pounds of them are eaten on the Sunday of The Big Game alone. No matter how you flavor them, from barbecue to Cajun squirrel (yes that’s an actual flavor) anyone who cashes in on making them is no doubt “in the chips.” On National Potato Chip Day, celebrate by munching on your own favorite flavor! The number Pi is calculated by dividing the circumference of a circle by its diameter. Sounds easy, right? Not really. The approximate value of Pi is 3.14, but if you were to keep calculating the decimals, you’d be working a long time. Like forever. In 2021, a supercomputer attempted to calculate Pi and made it to 62.8 trillion digits before running out of memory. Seems like the phrase “easy as pie” is a reference to the baked version, not the numerical one. If you’re a real Poindexter, you could spend National Pi Day doing math, or you can celebrate along with us over a piece of, well…pie. A la mode optional. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to March 13th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate stolen beauty and a simple way to keep out the cold. The one-of-a-kind blue gem known as the Hope Diamond was discovered by Jean-Baptiste Tavernier in the 1600s. Well, not so much “discovered” as “stolen from a Hindu temple.” And the price of this theft was a curse. Tavernier sold the stone to French king Louis XIV and walked away a rich man. However, shortly after selling the Hope Diamond, Tavernier was eaten by wolves. And, according to legend, every subsequent owner of the diamond has also met with tragedy or an untimely death. Royalty, jewelers, even the man who delivered it to its present home—the Smithsonian Institution. The Hope Diamond is on display, but safely under lock and key. On National Jewel Day, celebrate beauty from a distance or spring for your own gem and avoid the curse of bad karma. Farmington, Maine is bitterly cold, especially if you are outside ice skating in winter. For 15 year old Chester Greenwood the sting was particularly bad because of his extra large ears. In order to protect them, he asked his grandmother to sew tufts of fur between two loops of wire and voila, the first earmuffs were fashioned. Though it wouldn’t be the last invention for young Greenwood, it would become his legacy. For nearly 60 years, earmuffs were manufactured in the town of Farmington and to this day there is a parade in honor of Chester Greenwood. On National Earmuff Day celebrate the mother of invention and her big eared grandson. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to March 12th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate rare flowers and adventurous girls. The Titan Arum is one of the rarest flowers on earth. It’s also the largest, with blossoms growing up to several feet tall. And seeing the flower is both a blessing and a curse. Blooms only appear every 7 to 9 years, so if you catch this amazing sight consider yourself lucky. But get ready to pinch your nose because the flower smells like something rotting. Specifically, a body decaying…which gives the flower its more well known name—the Corpse Flower. Why on earth would something so beautiful smell so bad? Self-preservation. This odor attracts lots of insects, which allows for greater pollination. On National Plant a Flower Day, plant something pretty that hopefully smells nice too. Young Juliette Gordon Low was full of adventure. She rode elephants in India, climbed the Great Pyramid in Egypt and even went trout fishing with Rudyard Kipling. When she was grown, she organized the first Girl Scout meeting in 1912 with18 girls. Today that organization is a 3.7 million strong organization. Their motto is simple: Be Prepared and Do A Good Turn Daily. The Girl Scout program today builds courage, confidence and character in its young women, along with financial literacy with its cookie sales. Notable alumni include Lucille Ball, Sandra Day O’Connor, Sally Ride and Jackie Joyner-Kersee. On National Girl Scout Day, we celebrate the adventurous spirit of one young girl who has made a difference to millions. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to March 11th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the circle of life and the seeds of wisdom planted by one man. The Ancient Egyptians developed a system of mummification because they believed very strongly in the afterlife. According to their traditions, the spirit left the body after death. But it would come back shortly thereafter. So bodies had to be well preserved in order to give the spirit a place to come back to. Egyptians also placed their dearly departed in peaceful positions to appeal both to loved ones and the returning spirit. Several of these techniques are still used today, though they have evolved quite a bit over the years. On National Funeral Director & Mortician Recognition Day, we celebrate the people who help us complete the circle of life in a way that honors everyone. There’s a theory that the apple was spread across Europe by bears. But here in the United States we give credit to a hero that is a folklore legend. For anyone who has ever eaten an apple from the orchard in Ashland County, Ohio, the story of Johnny Appleseed is all too real. In the years following the American Revolution, John Chapman was seen walking for miles from his Massachusetts home, planting apple seeds and tending orchards in states. He was welcome everywhere for his wisdom and pay it forward attitude. Though it’s not actually known if he traveled with a pot on his head, his legacy of kindness can be sampled from a tree that stands to this day. On National Johnny Appleseed Day, take a bite of American folklore and spread kindness wherever you go. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to March 10th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate cool lunches and heroic plumbers. In grade school, lunchboxes were such a status symbol. Who cared about the PB&J and apple inside? Star Wars and superhero branding didn’t make the food actually taste better, but it certainly felt that way. And if you’re lucky enough to own a certain collectible lunchbox, almost everything would seem better. A 1954 Superman lunchbox, featuring the Man of Steel battling a giant robot is worth a whopping $13,000. That would buy a lot of sandwiches for you and all your friends. On National Pack Your Lunch Day, celebrate by making your own meal to take to work or school. It’s bound to be healthier and certainly less expensive than eating out. Cool lunch boxes are optional. If your name is Mario get ready to kick up your feet, this day has your name all over it. But just a heads up, the one we are celebrating has a brother named Luigi, and he has earned the day off for all his heroic feats. Jumping over barrels, stomping on killer turtles, racing go karts over rainbow highways. There’s not much this brave little plumber hasn’t done. Since his first appearance in Donkey Kong way back in 1981, Mario has become the most popular character in video game history. Today celebrates anyone named Mario, but this video game icon is the most famous of the bunch. On National Mario Day, dust off an old copy of Super Mario Brothers and spend a few hours saving the world from Bowser and his evil Koopa Troopers. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to March 9th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a woman who has done it all and a forecast for cloudy with a chance for meatballs. In 1959, the world was introduced to one of the biggest fashion icons ever. Her name is Barbara Millicent Roberts, though you probably know her as Barbie. Since making her debut, she’s become one of the most popular toys ever—Mattel claims that a Barbie is sold every 3 seconds. And she’s always out in front of fashion trends, with nearly a billion different outfits over the years. On top of that, she’s held over 150 different jobs, including doctor, astronaut, and pilot. Heck, she even ran for president once. On National Barbie Day, we celebrate an icon who’s seen and done it all. National Meatball Day is a purely American celebration of a thoroughly American food. That’s right, you won’t find meatballs on the menu when you’re traveling through Italy, where they are called polpettes. But you will find them practically everywhere else. Even IKEA is known for their tasty Swedish meatballs and no you don’t have to assemble them yourself. More than one billion meatballs are served at the 430 stores every year. It is believed that the first meatballs were made in Persia and caught on as a convenient way to quickly cook up almost any type of meat. Celebrate National Meatball Day with your favorite pasta and sauce or make this world traveler the main event. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to March 8th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a magical state and women who make history. In downtown Portland, you’ll find the smallest park in the world—a patch of land only 2 feet across. The land was once intended for a street light, but the light was never installed. The empty site caught the eye of journalist Dick Fagan, who wrote a column and dubbed the place Mill Ends Park. It features a tiny swimming pool, statues, and a mini Ferris wheel. Mill Ends is also home to the only leprechaun colony outside of Ireland. Unfortunately, the leprechauns are invisible. On National Oregon Day, we celebrate the Beaver State and all its weird and wonderful sights, from Crater Lake to leprechauns. Not all women are famous for both beauty and brains but Austrian born, Heddy Lamar possessed both. While Hollywood honored her film career with a star on the Walk of Fame in 1960, she was also known for her work as an inventor. At the start of World War II Heddy and composer George Antheil developed a radio guidance system that armed Allied torpedoes with anti jamming capability. The principles of their work were eventually used in creating GPS and Bluetooth technology, and Lamar was later inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame in 2014. On International Women’s Day, we honor women around the world who make their mark by making history right where they stand. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to March 7th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate breakfast favorites piled high or in a bowl. If you enjoy flapjacks for breakfast, be sure to check your surroundings before ordering some. Here in the United States, a flapjack is another name for a pancake. The word is simply a regional name. But if you are in England, make sure to choose your words carefully. Over there, a pancake is very similar to our version. However, a flapjack is an entirely different thing. British flapjacks are baked in an oven and made from a mixture of oats, sugar, butter, and syrup. They’re closer to what we call granola bars. On National Flapjack Day, enjoy a stack with melted butter and syrup or any regional favorite of your own. If your mother ever dragged you along to the grocery store, then a trip down the cereal aisle made it all worthwhile. But the brightly colored boxes promising a toy inside did not start out that exciting at all. And while Kellogg's Corn Flakes were the first to put a prize inside the box in 1909, they were originally designed to be boring. Dr. John Harvey Kellogg believed that a bland diet would curb our sinful human nature. The cereal later took a ride aboard Apollo 11, where it was formed into cubes to be eaten without milk. Few other cereals have traveled this distance, though some have enough sugar to rocket your kids to the moon and back. On National Cereal Day, celebrate your inner child with a bowl full of crunchy goodness. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to March 6th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate teeth specialists and flash frozen inspiration. There was a time that if you needed a haircut and had a toothache, you would go to the same place. A barbershop. Barbers weren’t proper dentists—they didn’t provide any preventive services or teeth cleaning. But they did perform tooth extractions if someone was in pain. They used something called a dental key, which was an early version of forceps. This practice started in the Middle Ages and didn’t end until the 1800s, when dentists and barbers became two separate things. And thank goodness for that. On National Dentist's Day, we celebrate the people who keep us smiling and the fact that we can get our hair cut without worrying about Novocaine. Not everyone who goes ice fishing comes up with a million dollar idea, but Clarence Birdseye II discovered something about the fish he caught in the minus forty degree weather of Newfoundland. The year was 1915 and young Clarence noticed that flash frozen fish were much better than the kind that were mushy when thawed. He developed a patent for this technology, without any idea that frozen food would eventually become a staple. And while his company Birdseye Seafood went bankrupt in 1924 for lack of interest in his product, he continued to refine the revolutionary process until he sold his company and patent in 1929 for $22 million. On National Frozen Food Day we celebrate the flash of genius that keeps our freezers stocked. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to March 5th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate finger painting with our food and tipsy medicine. Anyone who’s ever munched on Cheese Doodles has experienced the struggle of cleaning orange powder from their hands. It gets everywhere. In 1992, artist Sandy Skoglund took that experience to another level. Her surreal art installation The Cocktail Party re-creates a traditional get together with mannequins dressed in suits and cocktail dresses. What makes the sculpture unique is that every single surface is covered in the neon orange of Cheese Doodles. Celebrate National Cheese Doodle Day with a bowl of these classic snacks and try to keep the mess to a minimum. This isn’t an art gallery. Absinthe is one of the strongest liqueurs you can buy, sometimes going as high as 160 proof. Over the years it has gained a bad reputation because of one of its ingredients: wormwood. This herb with the gross sounding name supposedly causes hallucinations or madness, but wormwood is used for very different reasons in Chinese medicine. In the 1900s, Chinese soldiers discovered that drinks containing an extract from the plant could help fight off malaria. Today we don’t recommend drinking absinthe as medicine, but if being tipsy is your idea of celebrating, then by all means, try a glass on National Absinthe Day. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to March 4th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the kids who ride our coattails and the geeks who make our hearts beat faster. John Adams played an integral role in the birth of America. And all the while, his son John Quincy observed him and took mental notes. As a child, he watched the Battle of Bunker Hill. By the age of 14, he was already involved in politics, serving as secretary to the American ambassador to Russia. A couple years later, he joined his father in Paris to aid the men working out the Treaty of Paris, which formally ended the American Revolution. Over the next few decades, he served as an ambassador, then a Senator, and eventually became the 6th president of the United States. Although he wasn’t a very popular Commander in Chief, his parents were very proud of their son. On National Sons Day, remember that the kid following your footsteps today, will likely be leading others tomorrow. Not all band geeks are fit for the football field, but one trombone player proved his metal. In the 1982 Cal versus Stanford football game in which the Golden Bears scored a touchdown in the last four seconds, band geek Gary Tyrell first met Kevin Moen in a mighty collision. Believing that the game was over, the Stanford Marching Band had taken to the field in celebration, but Moen was too caught up in winning the game to avoid tackling Tyrell. Gary appeared on the Tonight Show, saying that he thought he would be famous for his talent as a musician, not for being knocked down on the football field. Fortunately the two became friends for life. On Marching Music Day we celebrate the geeks who make our hearts beat faster in the drum lines, drill squads and color guards. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to March 3rd, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate upscale cold cuts and the song we all know by heart. Bologna isn’t exactly fancy, but this lunchtime staple has very distinguished origins. The lunch meat known as Mortadella was created in Bologna, Italy and became a food coveted by nobility and peasants alike. Its popularity grew so much that people began making counterfeit versions. This became such a problem that in the 1600s a law was passed that made counterfeiting mortadella punishable by death. Talk about taking your lunch seriously. But make no mistake: Mortadella is a far superior product. Think of it as gourmet bologna. Celebrate National Cold Cuts Day with a sandwich made of fresh cut deli meats. Just make sure you ask for the real stuff. Of all the major battles waged during the War of 1812, Fort McHenry alone was bombarded by the British navy for nearly 25 hours straight. We can only imagine that the sound was deafening. On the quiet morning that followed, the sight of our tattered flag still flying in the smoke filled sky symbolizes our relief. It is this scene that inspired Francis Scott Key to write the poem “The Defense of Fort M’Henry,” which was later set to music. Though The Star Spangled Banner was first adopted for use by the United States Navy in 1889, it was not until March 3, 1931 that a congressional resolution made it our official anthem. On National Anthem Day, we celebrate the symbol of freedom that we all know by heart. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to March 2nd, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate valuable relics and Seussing it up. In 2010, Mary Shanesy got a call from the contractors working on her house, telling her they’d found something strange. She braced herself for the worst, but instead got a pleasant, albeit an unusual surprise. Behind one of the walls, contractors had uncovered a stash of alcohol from 1919—cases of gin, Scotch, brandy, rum, and wine. It appeared to be put there shortly before Prohibition went into effect. Probably by a family trying to stockpile the good stuff before it wasn’t available anymore. So what happened to all that hooch? It’s in a museum. Most of it, anyway. It’s National Old Stuff Day, a time to find new beginnings and get rid of old stuff. Unless it’s something really cool. Theodor Geisel was born on this day in 1904. He wrote and illustrated more than 60 books under the pen name Dr. Seuss. During World War II he even went to war using political cartoons that denounced the tyrants of the day. But he is best loved for his mark on childrens’ literature and today we honor him with a poem of our own. From the biggest of big to the smallest of small, books open worlds to every and all. With stories of zazzles and hooplahs and rats, dragons and castles and ponies and cats. Pages of whats its, who dance with their snoodles. And swim with their frogs and their dizzles and poodles! Whatever you want, just read something today to celebrate National Dr. Seuss Day! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to March 1st, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a city build by sinners and saints and good old monkey butter. “Pig’s Eye” Parrant arrived in Minnesota in the 1830s, selling whiskey to settlers and soldiers at Fort Snelling. This man with a “dubious reputation" set up shop nearby at Fountain Cave, using the spring water for distilling alcohol. After Pig Eye built a saloon to peddle his wares, people began coming to the area and soon it grew into a proper town. For years, this place was referred to as Pig’s Eye. That is until the Catholic Church moved in and built a house of worship. The new pastor wasn’t thrilled with a town named after such a scoundrel and proposed that it be renamed after St. Paul. On National Minnesota Day, we celebrate the North Star State and its capital city, founded by Pig Eye and named after a Saint. Many of the folks who fought during World War II have passed away, but the great war passed on some unexpected food staples that live on to this day. While food items such as hamburgers, cream and butter were in short supply during the war, one item was never rationed: good old peanut butter. Known by soldiers as monkey butter this wasn’t the smooth, creamy type that some of us prefer. To sweeten their sandwiches and keep them from sticking to the roof of their mouths, soldiers added jam. The PB and J became popular with the kids back home, and peace time brought up a new generation of monkey butter fans. On National Peanut Butter Lover’s Day celebrate this lunchtime staple with a tall glass of milk. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to February 28, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate towers of flowers and tales about teeth. The small Dutch town of Zundert is home to the largest floral parade in the world. It began in 1936 to celebrate the birthday of the Queen and has grown into a huge annual festival. Like the Parade of Roses in Pasadena, California, it showcases the beauty of its local blooms. But the floats are designed using dahlias rather than roses. And Zundert floats don’t depict sweet scenes of butterflies and teddy bears. In 2016, the winning design was a giant orange dragon that breathed actual fire from its mouth. These floats are made with hundreds of thousands of flowers and can tower over 3 stories tall and 6 stories long, nearly twice the size of their American cousins. On National Floral Design Day, we celebrate the artistry of flower arrangement in all shapes and sizes. There are many customs around the world that revolve around children losing teeth. In parts of Asia, children make a wish on each tooth that falls out. In France, young children are told that a mouse sneaks into homes, then collects baby teeth from children in exchange for money. The tradition originated from a 17th century fairy tale about a mouse who hid under an evil king’s pillow, then took all of his teeth while he slept. And of course here in the United States, kids who lose their baby teeth get a visit from the Tooth Fairy. We’re not sure what the going rate is for teeth, but on National Tooth Fairy Day, kids are hoping for the most, so nudge your fairy to the ATM machine. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to February 27, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate crazy origin stories and loveable predators. The world knows about the Mexican liqueur Kahlua mainly because of a Canadian bartender. In 1977, Peter Fich created a shot called the B-52. This mixture of Kahlua, Bailey’s, and triple sec became so popular that the demand for the coffee-flavored liqueur skyrocketed. But why did Fich give the shot that name? He named the shot after his favorite band. The B-52s. And the band had named themselves after a beehive-style hairdo called the B-52... Which had been named after the B-52 bomber used by the United States Air Force. Is anything NOT named B-52? Jeez. Celebrate National Kahlua Day with a cocktail made from this classic coffee-flavored drink. The Arctic Circle is home to the largest four legged predator on earth. Polar bears are beautiful, but make no mistake they are built for hunting. With super powers such as traction on the ice and the ability to smell their prey from over 20 miles away, most other animals don’t stand a chance. And polar bears are not afraid to take a dip to catch their favorite prey, the arctic seal. They are perfectly camouflaged with a beautiful white coat that is actually made up of translucent hairs. The fur only appears white because it reflects the color of snow. On National Polar Bear Day celebrate this amazing predator by learning more cool facts. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to February 26, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate time honored tales and a practical nut. “Once upon a time…” This is probably one of the best-known openings to stories ever. We’ve all heard it since we were small children each time we read a fairy tale. And what comes after that is always something to inspire the imagination. Giants, wicked stepmothers, talking animals. And of course princesses and heroes. Fairy tales were passed down as oral stories for generations until the Brothers Grimm came along and collected them in a book. On National Tell a Fairy Tale Day, share one of these beloved stories with the kids in your life or entertain the kid in yourself with some fascinating fiction. When it comes to nuts, some are just plain addictive. Take pistachios for instance. The global consumption for just one year can reach over one and half billion pounds. Because they are easily cracked from their shells, most people eat pistachios by the dozens. And that means piles of leftover shells when you are done snacking. But did you know there are plenty of ways to recycle them? Some people use them as kindling to start a fire. Others line the bottom of potted plants with shells for better drainage. Salted pistachio shells can make a border for outdoor plants, because the salt keeps snails and slugs away. And the nuts themselves are full of nutrients for healthy snacking. With all this good news National Pistachio Day is the perfect time to get cracking. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to February 25, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate skipping the straw and avoiding the heat in the kitchen. One of the biggest man-made structures on the planet wasn’t created on purpose. Out in the middle of the Pacific Ocean is an object known as the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. It covers an area twice the size of Texas and is comprised mostly of plastic bottles and bags. But one of the other big contributors is the plastic straw. These everyday items not only contribute to pollution, but also kill fish and other sea animals who eat them. On National Skip the Straw Day, try using a paper or reusable straw. Maybe even try drinking without one. It’s a small change that can make a big difference. Marlo, I know that you have taken up that challenge for life. Boston and New York have a rivalry that dates back centuries. One State was colonized by the religious Puritans, the other by The New Amsterdam Company. Boston became a center of education. New York was built around banks. And, of course, the Yankees and the Red Sox. This rivalry extends into the world of soup as well. New England clam chowder is a rich, cream based soup made with potatoes, onions, and pork fat. The Manhattan version is tomato based. They are equally delicious, but don’t tell that to any New Englanders. The region is so against the Manhattan recipe that someone once introduced a bill in the Maine legislature to ban the use of tomatoes in chowder. On National Clam Chowder Day, enjoy a delicious bowl of this seafood favorite, but watch out for the hot controversy. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to February 24, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate daredevil chips and mixing up the chili. One of the best parts of eating at a Mexican restaurant is gorging on chips and salsa before the meal arrives. But sometimes, one tortilla chip is more than enough. For the past few years, a company called Paqui has been daring customers to eat one of their chips. Just one. The catch is that this one tortilla chip is spicier than almost any other food. To be specific, it’s 8,000 times hotter than a jalapeño pepper. The single black chip comes in a coffin-shaped box with a giant skull on it. We are in no way recommending that you try this, but be sure to check out videos of the One Chip Challenge on YouTube. And celebrate National Tortilla Chip Day with some mild mannered chips and dip while you watch videos of the brave, crazy people who think they can handle spicy food. Ever have chili with cinnamon? If not, you’ve probably never been to Cincinnati and experienced their take on the dish. Cincinnati chili isn’t as thick as the traditional stuff and it’s usually served as a sauce on other foods. The most popular way to eat it is over spaghetti. And when ordering, there’s a system for doing so—called “ways.” If you know the lexicon, it’s easy. Two way means spaghetti topped with chili, which is the basic version. And if you order a five-way chili, you’ll get the same thing, but with the addition of beans, chopped onions, and cheese. Sounds weird, but if you’re in Cincinnati on National Chili Day, give it a whirl. It’s surprisingly good. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to February 23, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate strange things under foot and our favorite waste not want not bread. In the 1980s in Philadelphia, pedestrians who looked down at the sidewalk found some very strange art. At random points around town, someone had put tiles on the ground reading TOYNBEE IDEA IN MOVIE 2001 RESURRECT DEAD ON PLANET JUPITER. Identical tiles appeared in New York, Chicago, Boston, and other major cities. They’re called Toynbee Tiles and no one has ever figured out who’s doing it. Or even why. The message is likely a reference to the British philosopher Arnold Toynbee. He theorized that dead particles could be brought back to life. But who knows? The next time you find yourself walking in a big city, take a moment to notice what might be under your feet. On National Tile Day, you could just be part of this strange mystery. If you have ever turned overripe bananas into delicious banana bread then you already know the virtue of the saying, waste not want not. But before the 1930s most desserts made with bananas only used slices of the fruit in perfect condition. The Great Depression changed all of that. During a time when food was scarce, no one would dream of tossing out fruit, even if it was past its prime. The real hero was a newly discovered ingredient which did most of the heavy lifting: baking soda. By the 1930s, cookbooks made use of baking soda in all kinds of quick bread recipes and ripe bananas played a starring role! On National Banana Bread Day, bake up a tradition that’s still good to the last crumb. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to February 22nd, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate Gold Fever and celebration in a glass. California as we know it might not exist if it weren’t for James Wilson Marshall. In 1848, he was building a sawmill near Sacramento for his employer, John Sutter. Here he spotted something shiny in the river. It turned out to be gold. Although the men tried to keep the find to themselves, news got out and soon people were coming from all over the country to strike it rich. In the span of a year, the population of the area increased from 1,000 to over 100,000. Because of this gold rush, California suddenly became much more important to the United States and became the 31st state in 1849. On National California Day, celebrate the Golden State, its natural beauty, and the accidental discovery that made it what it is today. When Mariano Martinez began serving frozen margaritas at his restaurant in the 1970s, most people loved the new version of this drink. But his bartenders complained that it took too much time and preparation to make them. Martinez found a solution at a 7-Eleven convenience store. He noticed the Slurpee machine and thought it could easily make a large batch of margaritas. Using a soft serve ice cream machine, he began experimenting with recipes to get the consistency of the margaritas just right. Eventually, he found the perfect mixture of tequila, simple syrup, and water. And voila! A new twist on an old favorite was born. On National Margarita Day enjoy your favorite version of this perfect celebration drink. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to February 21st, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate going grain free and the humble beginnings of a National monument. Grains have been a staple of diets since the dawn of civilization. So if you’re one of the millions of Americans who have a grain allergy or intolerance, you may find meal time a bit challenging. But it doesn’t have to be. These days, there are plenty of options in grocery stores and restaurants for people living a grain-free life. On National Grain-Free Day, try sharing some of these dishes with friends and family. They might not be keen on the idea, but something like cauliflower pizza crust may just surprise them. It sounds weird, and it’s not the real thing, but it’s really really good and it might just pave the way for more adventures in the kitchen. In 1885, Charles Rushmore was hiking through the Black Hills of South Dakota. He was checking on gold mines for his employer, when he passed by one of the big peaks. Looking up, he asked his guide if the peak had a name and the guide jokingly said, “It never had any but it has now. We’ll call the thing Rushmore”. Today the mountain is an awe inspiring monument to some of the greatest presidents in United States history. Washington reminds us of the country’s founding. Jefferson symbolizes its growth. Theodore Roosevelt represents the conservation of its natural beauty. And Lincoln, the preservation of its union, no matter the cost. On Presidents Day, we celebrate the contribution of the folks who built the United States from the ground up. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to February 20th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate laws about dessert and a legacy of leadership. If you have dinner in Kansas and opt for dessert, watch out for what you choose. It’s perfectly acceptable to eat cherry pie, but if you decide that you want it à la mode, you’re going to find yourself in some trouble. For some reason, there’s a law in Kansas that makes it illegal to eat cherry pie with a scoop of ice cream on top. Nobody seems to be sure what prompted this law to become necessary, but luckily it’s not enforced. Kansas also has a law banning the hunting of whales, so clearly someone way back when was having a bit of fun passing legislation. On National Cherry Pie Day, celebrate with a slice of this classic American dessert. Except where prohibited by law. John C. Maxwell defined leadership as this: “Leadership is influence; nothing more, nothing less.” Maxwell is an American author, speaker and pastor who has literally written the book on leadership. Several books in fact. This world influencer truly understands that, at its heart, leadership is about service. His people based messages define his values and carry far beyond the written and spoken word. Clearly Maxwell has led by example and hopes to inspire leaders far into the future. He encourages us to create an environment of affirmation for both young and old. We honor him on National Leadership Day, as he celebrates his 75th birthday. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to February 19th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate animals that inspire nobility and lash envy. Arabian horses were the first breed of horse ever domesticated. About 5,000 years ago, the Bedouin people broke wild horses and used them for transportation in the deserts of the Middle East. Because of generations of being raised in such harsh conditions, Arabian horses are renowned for their endurance. Though this beautiful and regal animal can have many different color coats, its skin underneath is black, which is another evolution from living in the desert—the dark skin helps to protect the horse from overheating. On National Arabian Horse Day, we celebrate this noble steed and the ways it continues to inspire us. When it comes to thick, beautiful eyelashes, one animal stands head and shoulders above the rest. It turns out that giraffes have special lashes that are perfect for protecting their peepers. In the natural world, lashes that are too long can cause evaporation. Eyelashes that are too short don’t protect from dust and wind. And thick lashes make it hard to see. But giraffes have just the right “Goldilocks effect.” They have several rows of thick eyelashes that filter out sunlight and dust, which is very important when you’re standing around in the bright African plains. Their lashes are essentially built in sunglasses. On National Lash Day we celebrate the beauty and function of eyelashes, and try not to have lash envy for animals who don’t worry about losing their sunglasses. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to February 18th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the ancient origins of wine and batteries. People have enjoyed alcohol throughout history. But its discovery was likely a happy accident. Fermentation occurs naturally with grapes because yeast is on their skin. Because this happened without having to do anything to the crushed fruit, ancient people viewed the process as something magical, created by the gods. Fermentation occurred with grain and other fruits, but folks found that it worked best with grapes. Once they understood the fermentation process, winemaking became more elaborate and created a tradition that continues to this day. Oenophiles rejoice! It’s National Drink Wine Day. Pour yourself a glass of this heavenly alcohol. Have you ever noticed that smoke alarm batteries go dead in the middle of the night? This happens because batteries slow down when it’s cold, setting off that annoying sound. As convenient as they are, batteries are far from perfect. But there are reasons to celebrate these portable power sources by seeing just how far they have come! A two thousand year old battery was discovered in a Baghdad museum. This ancient wonder combined a ceramic pot, a copper coil and a rod of iron. Great minds are still making improvements and today smart batteries are even able to detect when they need changing. Maybe in the future they can wake themselves up in the middle of the night so you can spend National Battery Day recharging yourself! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to February 17th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate pastimes that are for the birds and one kind moment in history. Birdwatching can be fun, but you have to be very patient. Why not make the birds come to you, courtesy of a bird feeder? There are few things more relaxing than sitting at your kitchen window, coffee in hand, watching birds in your tree only a few feet away. One of the best ways to attract a good variety of birds is to use different types of seed and different feeders. Set them at different heights, and you’re almost guaranteed to have a parade of feathered friends. During National Bird Feeding Month, get your feeders set up, pull up a chair, and wait for the inevitable arrival of birds. And probably squirrels. Mark Twain once said that, “Kindness is a language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see.” It can even melt the stony heart of your enemies. On a cold morning in December, 1914 the Western Front of World War I took a pause for Christmas. Though it was only 5 months into the war, and it would not be repeated again, it is perhaps one of the finest examples of chivalry during wartime. Soldiers on either side of enemy lines greeted each other in their native tongue. They sang Carols to one another in plain sight and even exchanged gifts of cigarettes and plum puddings. It was Pope Benedict the XV who suggested this hiatus, but it was the hearts of men who made it happen. On National Random Acts Of Kindness Day we invite you to witness miracles for yourself, both great and small that come from leading with your heart. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to February 16th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate shaking the tree and rescuing a grouch. 80% of the world’s almonds come from California. As of 2020, the state was harvesting 3.1 billion pounds of the nuts annually. Unlike other nuts, almonds aren’t picked. Instead, the trees are shaken so that the almond fruit falls to the ground. Yes, almond fruit. What we call an almond is technically the pit of a fruit. As for shaking, there are special machines for this called—well, shakers. They clamp onto each almond tree and begin to shake until all the fruit are off. After harvesting, the pits are removed, and viola! Almonds. On National Almond Day…celebrate with a handful of this healthy and delicious snack and be glad you don’t have to shake the tree yourself. One of the world’s more loveable grouches is Oscar from Sesame Street. Everyone in the neighborhood does their best to bring Oscar around. And even though he stays in his stinky “trash can mood,” once in a while we see him have a heart. Jim Henson based this character on a grumpy waiter he encountered in a restaurant called Oscar’s Salt of The Sea. Caroll Spinney performed Oscar’s voice based on a cranky New York taxi driver. We all meet a grouch at some point in life and there’s one trick that works more often than not: doing something nice. On National Do A Grouch A Favor Day try this method with your favorite grouch. Just don’t let them know which day you are celebrating. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to February 15th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate getting serious about dairy and a smooth candy king. Wisconsin is one of the biggest dairy producers in the United States, each year generating over 30 billion pounds of milk-related foods. So it shouldn’t come as a surprise that the state takes butter very seriously. In fact, Wisconsin outlawed the sale of margarine for decades. During World War II, sales of margarine were allowed because of milk rationing. But it wasn’t allowed to be yellow in order to avoid confusing it with real butter. It took until 1967 before the state allowed the sale of yellow margarine. Even today there are Wisconsin laws intended to make the difference clear. On National Wisconsin Day, we toast the Badger State and all its natural beauty. But make sure it’s butter on that toast, my friend. Or else. If you’ve ever played the board game Candy Land you will know there is no gumdrop king in the Gumdrop Mountains. But there was one in real life. Percy Truesdell was posthumously named the Gumdrop King for his improvement of the candy. Percy worked in the chemistry labs of Ohio State State University and it was here that he made a discovery. By adding the perfect amount of starch to the recipe, the once solid glob of sugar became a smooth, chewy confection. The original flavors of clove, allspice, cinnamon and spearmint are not as popular today but they do go nicely on gingerbread houses. Most people still prefer cherry, grape, orange and lemon and thanks to the Gumdrop King we can celebrate National Gumdrop Day without breaking our teeth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to February 14th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate reaching new heights and what the birds teach us about love. The past few decades have seen an odd trend taking place. Cities trying to outdo one another with giant Ferris wheels. On New Year’s Eve 1999, the London Eye was unveiled and stood at a height of 443 feet. A few years later, China built one that was 525 feet tall. Then Singapore outdid them. That was the tallest Ferris wheel in the world until The High Roller in Las Vegas opened for business. It looks over the Strip from 550 feet up in the sky. But last year, Dubai raised the bar to ridiculous heights with a Ferris Wheel that towers over the city at a height of 820 FEET. On National Ferris Wheel Day, celebrate your own corner of the sky. Valentine’s Day has not always been about romance. For that we can thank the Medieval English author Geoffrey Chaucer. In his poem Parliament of Fowls, he tells the tale of a group of birds who come together each Valentine’s Day to find a mate. Three male eagles compete with one another to see which can claim a female’s love. This popularized the idea of the holiday being about love and romance. And the tradition lives on to this day. Spoiler alert, in the poem, none of the eagles gets the girl, so don’t feel bad if you haven’t found your true love just yet. Celebrate Valentine's Day with the one you love, even if it’s yourself. After all, this love thing can really be for the birds. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to February 13th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate our favorite snacks. The 1893 World’s Fair in Chicago unveiled many amazing things to its visitors. Advancements in transportation, weaponry, and wonders from around the world. But one its most enduring legacies is the popularizing of snack food. Fairgoers were given a box of Cracker Jack upon entry. As much as people loved it, the molasses, popcorn, and peanut snack was too gooey for mass production. A few years later, the formula was perfected and Cracker Jack became a huge hit. Soon after came a host of other foods trying to capitalize on the trend of munching between meals. February is National Snack Food Month, so tear open a bag of chips or go old school with a box of Cracker Jack. Cheese lovers might not care that their favorite snack is actually named for the place that it’s made but today we give thanks to the village of Cheddar in Somerset, England. In the U.K. cheddar cheese accounts for more than half of the multi billion dollar cheese market. And here in the United States, cheddar is just behind mozzarella in popularity. So how did this “cheddar love” migrate across the pond? Enter Peter McIntosh, who brought his talent for cheese making to Tillamook County, Oregon in 1894. His superior skills earned him the title of the Cheese King of the Coast, and today there are more cows than people in Tillamook County. On National Cheddar Day savor the flavor that’s treasured on both sides of the pond. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to February 12th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate how far movies have come and a Presidential birthday treat. Before there were movie theaters, there were Kinetoscopes. These cabinet-like devices looked a little like arcade games. For a quarter—which was a pretty steep price in 1894—people could watch a movie. By themselves, anyway. Kinetoscopes showed short films via a peephole and only one person could watch at a time. The films were very basic—usually nothing more than people dancing or a horse running. But to a world that had never seen a moving image before, the Kinetoscope was nothing short of magical. Over a century later, we can celebrate Global Movie Day from the couch as we stream our favorite films—with or without someone else. Everyone knows that the birthday boy or girl gets to choose their favorite dessert on their special day. Most of us like cakes or pies for the occasion, but one American president loved plum pudding. While this dessert hails from England, Abraham Lincoln liked it so much that the recipe can still be found in White House Historical cookbooks. The steamed pudding does not call for plums, however, but is made instead from apples, dates, raisins, nutmeg and cinnamon. Thanks to Charles Dickens, most people think of it as a Christmas dessert. Back in the day people dimmed the lights to serve plum pudding and children played a game called snap dragon as they tried to snatch raisins from the flaming dessert. On National Plum Pudding Day we honor the birthday boy’s choice and give a nod to Mr. Lincoln. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to February 11th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate unusual pairs and the ways they change the world. What do you get when you combine a West Coast rapper and one of the most famous homemakers in the world? One of the oddest celebrity friendships ever—that’s what. When Martha Stewart had Snoop Dogg as a guest on her show back in 2008, the two immediately hit it off over a bowl of mashed potatoes. Ever since, the pair have been great friends. They frequently appear on TV together and make one another laugh. As Snoop put it, their friendship is "a natural combination of love, peace, and harmony.” It’s National Make a Friend Day, so why not take a chance and talk with someone new today. You might end up with a new friend. Stranger things have happened. With inventions ranging from the radio to remote control, Nicola Tesla is one of the most important minds of the modern era. When testing his creations, he sometimes got a hand from Mark Twain. Tesla had long been a fan, and when the two met, they immediately became friends. Twain would often stop by Tesla’s laboratory to see what his friend was working on. During his visits, he helped with electrical testing, had X-rays shot at his head, and stood on something dubbed the earthquake machine to find its effects on the human body. Twain was so fond of the inventor that he based the main character in A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court on him. On National Inventors’ Day, we celebrate the men and women who bring new ideas to life and those who cheer them on. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to February 10th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate shaddocks and bumbershoots. Have you ever eaten a shaddock fruit? Or had shaddock juice with breakfast? If you have no idea what we’re talking about, grapefruits used to be known as shaddock fruits. Hundreds of years ago, the British sea captain Philip Shaddock is said to have planted the first grapefruit seeds in Barbados. Actually, they were pomelo seeds, which is a fruit very similar to the grapefruit. The citrus fruit we know today came from a hybrid of the pomelo and a native orange tree. February is National Grapefruit Month, and you can celebrate with a nice cold glass of healthy shaddock, uh…grapefruit…juice. The umbrella is something that people don’t typically think about until they need one. Then it’s suddenly the most important thing in the world. And in 19th Century British fashion, it was. No self respecting gentleman would dare to venture out without an umbrella. But it wasn’t enough to have this accessory, EVERYONE had one. The way to stand out in the crowd was by customizing the handle. Some were made of ivory or gold. Others had flashlights, watches, or compartments for tobacco and cigars. And, of course, the occasional sword. This made the umbrellas very coveted items and some came equipped with locks or alarms. That makes sense given that they were a veritable Swiss Army knife in their day. Today we celebrate National Umbrella Day by being prepared with a tool that is still best at keeping us dry. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to February 9th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate Italian royal taste and kosher fun for everyone. You may not recognize the name Raffaele Esposito, but he holds a special place in history as the father of the modern pizza. Esposito had already earned a reputation as a pizza maker in Naples, Italy, when King Umberto and Queen Margarita made their visit in 1889, and the Queen wanted only the best. Enter Raffaele Esposito. He brought her several choices, but her favorite was topped with mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil. It was not only delicious, it reminded her of the Italian flag. From then on, that style of pizza was known as the Margherita. On National Pizza Day, celebrate with your favorite toppings and make your own royal pie. Some things are just meant to go together, peanut butter and jelly, shoes and socks and today’s celebration: bagels and lox. While lox have been around for thousands of years, bagels were not invented until the 1700s. So how did they come to be a pair? Turns out that it all started in America in the 1930s with the demand for eggs benedict. Because this dish could not be considered kosher, the Jewish community in New York came up with the perfect alternative: a toasted bagel topped with lox and a schmear. This pairing became so closely linked, that when bagel workers went on strike in the 1950s the sales of lox dropped by fifty percent! Today it’s easy to have your shmear and eat it too on National Bagel And Lox Day. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to February 8th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the Hawkeye State and the ripple effect of an English Boy Scout. If you’re into competitive cycling, the Tour de France is your brass ring. However, if you love cycling but aren’t really the competitive sort, the RAGBRAI might be for you. RAGBRAI or Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa, isn’t so much a race as it is a festival on wheels. Founded in 1973, this celebration is an eight-day journey across Iowa. People come from around the world to bike together with friends and to make new ones along the way. The RAGRAI is the oldest and longest bicycle touring event in the world and if you find yourself in Iowa in late July, find a bike and get rolling. On National Iowa Day, celebrate the Hawkeye State and all it has to offer. On a foggy day in London William Dickson Boyce, an American newspaperman became lost. He was assisted by a Boy Scout who brought him safely to his destination. When Mr. Boyce offered payment to the scout, the boy refused it saying that a good deed needs no reward. But Boyce did indeed pay it forward by organizing similar youth groups into one organization. He founded the Boy Scouts of America program on this day in 1910. Since then the Scouting Program has produced many United States Presidents, 181 astronauts and millions of merit badges that echo that London boy’s good deed. On National Boy Scouts Day, celebrate the ripple effect of those who help others at all times. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to February 7th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate strange elements and pasta love letters. Hydrogen is the most common element in the universe. Here on Earth, it appears almost everywhere in some form or another. You can find it in the air, water, and in the Earth’s crust. But what is the rarest element? That would be Astatine. It’s a highly radioactive element with a half-life of only 8 hours. Only trace amounts of Astatine have ever been found naturally. Most of the time, it’s only been observed in labs, as a by-product of nuclear experimentation. But as radioactive as the element is, it disappears so quickly that it poses very little threat to humans. On National Periodic Table Day, discover some of the strange and mysterious elements that form the world around us. And no Marlo, aspartame is not an element. In 1908, Alfredo Di Lelio’s wife was pregnant with their first child and was having trouble eating. He made her pasta with butter and fresh parmesan cheese. She loved it so much that she added it to the menu of their small restaurant. In 1927, Mary Pickford and Douglas Fairbanks, two of the hottest stars in Hollywood, were on their honeymoon in Rome. They went to dinner at Alfredo’s restaurant and fell in love with this simple pasta dish. When they returned to America, they spread the word to their friends and the recipe became famous worldwide. As a thank you for introducing them to this marvelous food, the Hollywood stars sent Alfredo a solid gold fork and spoon engraved with the words: “To Alfredo the King of the noodles”. On National Fettuccine Alfredo Day, you don’t need to be famous or eat with expensive flatware to enjoy this delicious Italian meal. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to February 6th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate by saying no to the fork and frozen freedom of choice. Fans of Asian cuisine may have noticed that chopsticks from Korea are different from chopsticks found in other Asian countries. Rather than bamboo or wood, Korean chopsticks are made from metal. According to one legend, this began around the year 500 AD when the royal family switched from wood to silver utensils. If their food had been poisoned, the silver would change color and alert them to the danger. Metal chopsticks then became commonplace in homes across the entire country, though most people used steel rather than silver. Metal is perfect for picking up meat from Korean BBQ grills and is much easier to clean. Celebrate National Chopsticks Day with takeout from your favorite Asian restaurant and say no to the fork. Frozen yogurt brings out the DIY artist in all of us. Ever since the 1970s, soft serve machines have allowed us to build our own sundaes and to celebrate freedom of choice. For some it’s a splurge, with combinations that feel like a healthy version of our favorite desserts. And that’s okay too because somewhere under all those gummi worms and cookie crumbs there are plenty of vitamins and probiotics in the frozen yogurt itself. For Supreme Court Justice Elena Kagan it’s a feather in her cap to have added a fro-yo machine to the Supreme Court cafeteria. For this feat she has been named the Frozen Yogurt Justice and on National Frozen Yogurt Day, we say, “Let Freedom Ring!” I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to February 5th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate predicting the unpredictable and a hall pass for your inner child. Until the 1860s, if people wanted to know what the weather would be, they had to rely on looking at the skies or using “weather wisdom”—a knowledge of patterns they’d gained over the years. This method was very popular with sailors and farmers, who paid special attention to wind and temperature changes. It was inexact, but necessary. Then came British admiral Robert FitzRoy, who established the Meteorological Department of the Board of Trade. The Met, as it was known, would collect data on wind speed and storm conditions around the British coast, then deliver them via telegraph from one port to another. This system warned sailors and fishermen of bad weather and saved many lives. On National Weatherperson’s Day, we celebrate the people who give us a heads up on weather conditions and also something to gripe about when the predictions are off. Anna: Hey Marlo, ever had ice cream for breakfast? Marlo: Is that a thing? Anna: It is at my house. I consider Ben & Jerry’s Chunky Monkey a breakfast combo of banana ice cream, walnuts and chocolate. What flavor would you eat for breakfast? Marlo: On Ice Cream For Breakfast Day, celebrate your inner child who has had enough of the healthy stuff. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to February 4th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate sticky mascots and outstanding service. Bubblegum had been around for years when Bazooka gum was first introduced to the market. The thing that made this gum unique was its mascot, Bazooka Joe. He wasn’t just a smiling cartoon on the packaging, Joe was an integral part of the product. Upon opening the wrapper for a piece of Bazooka bubblegum, people were greeted by a small piece of paper folded around the gum. On it was a cartoon, featuring Bazooka Joe. And a fortune. From 1953 until 2012, over 1500 cartoons featuring the eyepatch-wearing mascot were created and are now considered collectors items. On Bubble Gum Day, it’s easy to celebrate with your favorite brand: unwrap a piece, get chewing, and pop some bubbles! Benjamin Franklin founded the United States Postal Service in 1775. Since then mail carriers have been delivering mail for more than two centuries. We may take this service for granted or complain when it doesn’t work in our favor, but postal workers have successfully delivered letters in the trillions. And sometimes this happens in mysterious ways. Take the story of Susan Heifetz, who received not one but three letters that had been lost since 1969. A birthday card from her mother, a letter from a boyfriend sent overseas to Vietnam and another card from her brother, all arrived within one week of each other 45 years later. On National Thank A Mail Carrier Day we celebrate those who get the job done come rain or shine. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to February 3rd, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate vegetables for dessert and an odd twist of fate. Carrot cake is one of those foods that seems odd on paper. Why on earth make a dessert out of something otherwise seen as healthy? Well, for starters, carrots actually have a pretty high sugar content for a vegetable. In Medieval Europe and the Middle East, sweets were not readily available. Sugar was not the everyday item that we have today, so people needed to get creative. They’d boil the carrots, mash them up, add flour and butter, then serve the dish as a pudding. Eventually, that evolved into a cake. On National Carrot Cake Day, celebrate the chance to eat your vegetables and get dessert at the same time. On this day 63 years ago, a plane crash claimed 3 of music’s brightest young stars. The Winter Dance Party tour was traveling across the Midwest, with Buddy Holly as one of the headliners. After several shows, he had grown tired of the long, cold drives via tour bus and chartered a plane for the next leg of the trip. Holly intended to travel with his 2 bandmates, Tommy Allsup and Waylon Jennings. But neither traveled with him that fateful night. Before they parted ways, Holly teased Jennings and told him, “I hope your bus freezes up again.” Jennings replied, “Well, I hope your plane crashes.” Waylon Jennings was haunted by this comment for years. On National Day The Music Died Day, we celebrate Buddy Holly, Richie Valens, and The Big Bopper and those who dance with us through this thing called life. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to February 2nd, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate weather predicting rodents and striking potato gold. Today is the midway between the start of winter and the spring equinox. It used to be a pagan celebration of the coming of warmer weather. Christians in Europe adopted aspects of this celebration to create Candlemas. One of the traditions associated with Candlemas was the belief that a sunny day meant another 40 days of cold and snow. Germans put their own spin on this tradition, declaring that Candlemas would be considered sunny only if a badger saw its shadow. When German immigrants came to America, they swapped out the badger for a lovable groundhog and—voila!—Groundhog Day was born. Hopefully today is cloudy and Punxatawney Phil will let us know that Spring is about to be sprung! The brothers Nephi and Golden Grigg were farmers barely scraping by during the Great Depression. They made a bold decision to mortgage their home to purchase the frozen foods plant they had rented along the Oregon Idaho border. The Food Company now known as Ore-Ida began producing frozen corn, but Nephi knew the big money was in French fries. The problem was that the equipment used to cut the fries left an abundance of irregular potato bits, which were at first used to feed cattle. Nephi didn’t like throwing away profits and soon devised a way to pack the peelings into tater tots. By 1964 Ore-Ida turned an annual profit of $31 million. On National Tater Tot Day take a tasty bite of the American dream. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to February 1st, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate unbeatable spirit and the Lone Star State. The 2003 movie Seabiscuit, based on the novel by Laura Hillenbrand features the intersections of three men and a horse and epitomizes the spirit of “getting up when life knocks you down.” Based on the true story of Red Pollard, a bruised and broken jockey, Tom Smith a down on his luck Wild West showman and horse trainer and Charles Howard a pioneer car manufacturer stricken by the death of his son, this story delivers on inspiration. The men rally around a horse, who is their equal as a long shot because he was trained to lose but born to win. If you haven’t read the book or seen the movie in a while it’s an amazing pick me up! At a time when the Great Depression, Hitler and Mussolini made the headlines, this long shot team reminds us of American courage to bet against the odds. On National Get Up Day celebrate the things in your life that remind you to do the same. Austin, Texas, is home to the state capitol, beautiful parks, and a vibrant music scene. But if you want to see something a little out of the ordinary, take a trip over to the Congress Avenue Bridge. There, you’ll find the largest urban colony of bats in the world—nearly 1.5 million of the nocturnal creatures. Each evening at sundown, the bats take to the sky in a swirling cloud that temporarily blocks out the night sky. Don’t worry. They don’t care about people and ignore spectators in favor of insects. It’s a spectacular sight that would make the people of Gotham City jealous. On National Texas Day, we celebrate the Lone Star State, where everything is bigger. Even its oddities. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to January 31st, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate life in reverse and popping your stress. Doing things in reverse is usually best done slowly. But not always. Take, for example, Pal Onnen of Hastings, Minnesota. She set a record by spelling 56 random words backwards in a minute. Or Aaron Yoder who can run a mile backwards in under 6 minutes. And then there’s Daniel Abt, a professional driver who got an Audi RS 3 up to the speed of 130 miles per hour in reverse. Though we don’t suggest trying that at home. On National Backward Day celebrate by doing things like starting your day with dinner and ending it with breakfast. Or maybe put your clothes on backward. But leave the record setting to the pros. Anyone who’s ever held a piece of bubble wrap can hardly resist the urge to start popping it. But we all know it was made for wrapping things and not as a toy, right? Actually, that’s not true. When Alfred Fielding and his business partner invented what we know today as bubble wrap, they were creating 3 dimensional, plastic wallpaper. But when that idea didn’t work out, they began marketing their invention as a way to protect items during a move. The new strategy paid off big time when IBM became their first client, buying bubble wrap to ship their latest computer. After scientists unwrapped the new computers, we can only assume that they celebrated by popping the bubbles. On National Bubble Wrap Day, pop open your own celebration of this innovation that doubles as a stress reliever. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to January 30th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate influential tea totalers and fancy crescent rolls. The English love tea. In fact they built a global trade empire around it. But the beverage was actually introduced to the country by someone from Portugal. Tea had already been brought from China to Europe, but the Brits didn’t really care for it—they were using it as medicine. Then Catherine of Braganza of Portugal married England’s Charles II and moved to the British Isles. She drank tea every day, something that soon caught on with the rest of the nobility. Word spread about the queen’s habits and soon drinking tea became all the rage with the people of England. How is that for an influencer?! January is National Hot Tea Month, a great time to warm up with a delicious hot cuppa. You probably think croissants were invented by a Frenchman, but surprisingly the baker who came up with these light, buttery rolls was an Austrian in Paris. In the early 1800s August Zang took an existing bread recipe and added layers of butter to the dough through a process called lamination. This involves folding and pressing butter into the dough over and over again and the crisp, flaky results are well worth it! His Viennese bakery put the crescent shaped pastry on the map. On National Croissant Day, celebrate by visiting your own local bake shop and be sure to thank them by exclaiming, “Viva la croissant!” I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to January 29th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate puzzling pastimes and corny adventures. Putting together a puzzle is a fun way to spend a quiet day indoors. Of course, depending on the number of pieces, it can get frustrating. 100 pieces? Piece of cake. 500 pieces? A bit of a challenge. 1000 pieces? Now we’re getting a little crazy. But, let’s put things into perspective. According to Guinness, the most pieces ever used in a single puzzle is 551,232. It took 1,600 students in Vietnam around 17 hours to put it together. When completed, it measured over 48 x 76 ft. and depicted a lotus flower with 6 petals. No word whether there were any pieces missing. On National Puzzle Day, cozy up with your beautiful challenge. We Americans love our crunchy snacks. Thanks to Elmer Doolin, this includes corn chips and a household name that began on a road trip. In 1932, he was traveling through San Antonio, TX where he discovered a local favorite called friotes. Doolin bought the recipe from a man who wanted to quit the corn chip business. Little did he know it would be the best 100 dollars he ever spent. Doolin perfected them in his mothers kitchen and started selling the chips from the back of his Model T. But sales really took off when his mom Daisy came up with a recipe campaign called Cooking with Fritos. This led to a partnership with Herman Lay and today Fritos are a corn chip legend. On National Corn Chip Day enjoy your favorite chips with salsa and cheese or even a recipe from the Daisy Doolin kitchen! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to January 28th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the buzz on kazoos and our inner Big Wig. Today we celebrate a uniquely American instrument that was first known as the Down South Submarine. We know it better as the kazoo. This musical oddity was invented in the 1840s by a man named Alabama Vest and the German watchmaker Thaddeus von Clegg. The kazoo has created some buzz over the years, but it’s mainly been treated as a toy rather than a legitimate instrument. That said, it has been featured in blues and jazz music, though it’s rarely taken the spotlight. Still the kazoo has had its place in the sun. In fact, it has its very own museum in Beaufort, South Carolina. If you happen to be in the area, swing by the Kazoobie Kazoo Factory to celebrate National Kazoo Day. Anna: Hey, Marlo, why are you wearing that ridiculous wig? Marlo: What are you talking about? This is my natural hair, I’m just styling it differently. Anna: I know you’re a redhead but that looks a bit like bozo the clown. Marlo: It’s National Big Wig Day, Anna. In honor of the Look Good Feel Better Campaign, folks across the country host a party to raise money for cancer patients who could use a boost with locks of their own. Anna: I’ve heard about that! People get their inner Big Wig on and take on the role of philanthropist. There are charity events around the country that raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for the cancer charity of their choice. Marlo: I think I’m rocking the bozo look by the way. Anna: It is Have Fun At Work Day too! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to January 27th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the gift of life and having your cake and eating it too. Every 2 seconds someone in the United States needs a blood transfusion. That means over 41,000 donations are required each day to meet that need. You may already be aware that there are 4 blood types: O, A, B, and AB, but actually there are 8 if you consider that each has a positive and negative rH factor. O type blood can be used for anyone who needs it. AB blood types can receive blood of any type, but they are extremely rare. What does that mean for you? Plenty, if you’re in need of a transfusion. But even if you’re not up on your A, B and Os you can still give the gift of life during National Blood Donor Month. Chocolate lovers like to go over the top and chocolate cake is no exception. There is a chocolate cake recipe from a chef in Dubai that calls for cocoa beans from Italy, organic flour from the UK, vanilla from Uganda and 23 carat gold leaf and dust. The Golden Phoenix, as it’s known, is served on a Marie Antoinette dessert trolley, and comes at a price tag of over one thousand dollars. Luckily the kind that Duncan Hines makes is more accessible and some would argue, equally delicious. Ever since a doctor and a chocolate maker teamed up to grind cocoa beans on a stone mill, the once exclusive ingredient can now be found everywhere. On National Chocolate Cake Day you don’t have to be royalty to have your cake and eat it too. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to January 26th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate love for our partners in life and our own libraries. Frida Kahlo was smitten from the moment she set eyes on the mural La Creación in Mexico City. Not only with the art, but also with the man painting it—the famous artist Diego Rivera. It was about 15 years before they were formally introduced and they fell in love and married. Their relationship was rocky, with many ups and downs. However, their impact on one another’s art was enormous. Individually, they became two of the greatest artists of the 20th Century, but it was their mutual love for one another that fueled their creativity. On National Spouses Day, celebrate the partners who stick with you through thick and thin. Because, as Frida put it: “You deserve someone who takes away the lies and brings you hope, coffee, and poetry." In the early 1500s, Leonardo da Vinci kept a notebook to jot down his observations of the world around him. Among other things, he discusses why fossils of fish can be found in mountains and why the moon shines so brightly. It’s full of random notes and illustrations, and is written in Da Vinci’s famous backwards writing, which can only be read when viewed in a mirror. This simple 18 page book, known as the Codex Lester, was bought and sold several times over the years and became one of the most expensive books in the world. In 1994, Bill Gates bought it for just under 31 million dollars. While the books on our shelf may not be as valuable, we all have our favorites. On Library Shelfie Day, share your own love of books by taking a selfie in front of your prized editions. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to January 25th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the Sunshine State and a delicious cold weather cure. According to legend, the Fountain of Youth would grant anyone who drank from it the gift of long life. This story had existed for hundreds of years, but no one knew where it was. When the Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon heard rumors from natives in the Caribbean, he set sail to find it. Heading north in search of this miraculous fountain, he came upon land and went ashore. He named the land after the Spanish Easter celebration—The Feast of Flowers, or Pascua Florida. Though he never did find it, you can visit the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park in St Augustine, Florida. It won’t actually grant you eternal youth, but you will get to explore the oldest city in America. On National Florida Day, we celebrate the Sunshine State and all the natural beauty it has to offer. On a cold, wet day in 1942, weary travelers to the small Shannon Airport in Southern Ireland found their way to a restaurant run by Joe Sheridan. To warm his guests, Joe served them hot coffee spiked with whiskey and topped with a pillow of whipped cream. One of these guests was travel writer Stanton Delaplane who brought the idea of Irish Coffee to the owners of the Buena Vista Cafe in California in 1952. Intrigued by his story they tried to recreate the flavor, but concluded that it required a pilgrimage of their own to Joe’s restaurant. Their efforts were rewarded with the secret to floating the whipped cream on top and the authentic flavor has been enjoyed Stateside ever since. On National Irish Coffee Day, celebrate the folks who went the distance to bring us this cold weather cure. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to January 24th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate honeyed words and spreadable gold. When comic book legend Stan Lee opened his mail one day in 1963 he got what can be called an enthusiastic letter from a fan. It read: “Fantastic Four #17 was greater than great. Even now I sit in awe of it. It was stupendous! It will live forever as one of the greatest of ALL comics.” The compliment most certainly made him smile, but so did many other fan letters. So what made this one so special? Well, it was written by a boy named George R. R. Martin, who later created Game of Thrones. So what was Stan’s reply to this glowing compliment? “We might want to quit while we’re ahead. Thanks for your kind words, George.” On National Compliment Day, take a moment to send kind words to someone who deserves them. And by all means, be gracious if one gets sent your way. Peanut butter lovers will eat the spread straight from the jar, but it wasn’t quite as yummy at first. In the early 20th century, inventors saw the paste as a protein solution for patients who couldn’t chew meat. The noble efforts of Marcus Edson, Dr. Kellogg and Dr. Straub advanced the cause, but it was Joseph Rosefield who brought peanut butter to the masses. This food chemist from California struck gold when he developed the process for stabilizing peanut butter into a smooth, creamy concoction. He licensed the technology to a company that made Peter Pan peanut butter, but grabbed up his own share of the market with Skippy brand in 1932. On National Peanut Butter Day, celebrate this addictive spread with your choice of chunky or smooth. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to January 23rd, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate winding words and the taste of home. After the fall of the Roman Empire, civilizations across Europe took many different paths. So did writing. All books were handwritten in Latin, but depending on the region, the script could look much different. Scribes each put their own spin on letters and sometimes a letter like S would be big and loopy, and another it could be tiny. As a result, writing in one area of Europe looked wildly different from writing in another. When the Holy Roman Empire came to power, Charlemagne made it a point to standardize writing across Europe. He commissioned an English scholar to create a standardized font known as Carolingian miniscule. This form of writing was the first to make use of upper and lower case letters, as well as rules for spacing and punctuation. On National Handwriting Day, we celebrate twists and turns of scripts around the globe. If you’re from England this means the savory kind with some kind of stewed meat and spices, but in America pie is dessert. And it’s not just one of those “driving on the wrong side of the street” differences. When Mark Twain wrote A Tramp Abroad after traveling through Europe, he made a list of all the foods he would eat upon returning to his home in America: apple pie, peach pie, pumpkin pie, and squash pie. And to drive the point home, his recipe for English pie went as follows: “Construct a bullet proof dough, fill with stewed dried apples aggravated with cloves, then solder on the lid and set in a safe place till it petrifies. Serve cold at breakfast and invite your enemy.” Things have certainly improved since 1880, but one thing is sure, on National Pie Day folks still celebrate with their own flavor of home. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to January 22nd, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate having fun with our kids the brownie’s blonde cousin. Charles Swindoll said that each day of our lives we make deposits in the memory banks of our children. Today is the day to make that investment count by letting our kids know how much we love them. Celebration of Life Day is about appreciating the Now, whether it’s a walk in the park together, coloring or reading a book. And if you wanna score extra brownie points, why not let them choose the activity? Kids grow up much faster than we can imagine. And while your children may be racing towards adulthood, they are never too old to appreciate your attention and encouragement. This day is for everyone who loves a youngster, be they parents, grandparents, or uncles and aunts. It’s a gentle reminder that the best thing you can give your children is time. If you believe that brownies have all the fun, then make room on your plate for the “blondie.” It turns out that the first brownies didn’t have cocoa at all but got their color from molasses. It’s believed that these dessert bars originated in Sandusky, Ohio at least 10 years before their chocolate cousins. When chocolate became the norm in the early 1900s they told the bars apart by calling the original the blondie. This name appeared in recipe books of the 1940s and called for light brown sugar instead of molasses. Blondies have all the caramel sweetness of a chocolate chip cookie with the soft fudgy texture of a bar. On National Blonde Brownie Day add a scoop of ice cream, some toffee and nuts for the ultimate sweet tooth celebration. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to January 21st, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate crafty critters and packable snacks. Each Fall, squirrels gather nuts and then bury them for safekeeping. Because of scavengers, squirrels can’t hide their stash all in one place and use a technique called “scatter hoarding.” A few nuts get buried here, a few there, and before you know it, the treasure is spread out over hundreds of places. Sometimes they even dig fake holes to throw off other animals from finding the real stuff. And, contrary to popular belief, squirrels are really quite good at recovering their hidden nuts. Through a combination of smell and memory, these furry little creatures can locate nearly 3/4 of everything they buried. And, yes, if they find another squirrel’s hoard, they’re not above stealing. On Squirrel Appreciation Day, celebrate these crafty backyard critters. It’s a gorgeous day and you’ve decided to summit a challenging peak. After hours of pushing ahead through blisters and muscle cramps your senses are rewarded with a breathtaking view. In that moment it was worth all the energy you spent but the only problem is - you’re spent! Granola bars to the rescue. Hikers and sports enthusiasts know that these packable snacks are filled with whole grains, fruit, nuts and seeds, that offer a burst of energy without all the junk found in candy bars. If we’re being honest, there are plenty of granola bars that don’t pass for health food and if it matters to you, then check the labels. But if your active lifestyle requires meals on the go, then celebrate convenience on National Granola Bar Day and take in some gorgeous new heights. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to January 20th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate cheese glorious cheese and the staying power of those who spin records. If you’re a cheese lover then you won’t be surprised to learn there are 18 other cheese related holidays. But this one has your name all over it. For people who don’t understand all the fuss, here’s a clue. Science has determined that dairy proteins contain opiate particles that trigger our bodies to want more. Advertisers know that people are either “cheese enhancers,” people who prefer just a sprinkle and people who are salivating just thinking about it. These “cravers” are gob-smacked by ads for stuffed crust pizza, grilled cheese sandwiches with extra cheddar and lasagna piled high with melting mozzarella. Marlo, I think I hear your stomach growling. On National Cheese Lover's Day it’s okay to get carried away in your cheesy obsession. When Thomas Edison patented the phonograph in 1877, he had no idea of the impact it would have on the world. He intended the phonograph to be a device for recording voice messages. As we know, it also became a way to bring recorded music to the world. Nearly 60 years later, Walter Winchell first used the term "disc jockey” and those who played records over the airwaves changed music history. The 1950s saw the advent of celebrity DJs, whose music choices influenced what the world listened to. But even as our listening devices have changed, DJs have managed to stay in the game. Two turntables and a microphone have become an iconic platform for reaching a global audience. However they bring tunes to the world, we celebrate the power of music in their hands on National Disc Jockey Day. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to January 19th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate versatile snacks and superfoods. In the world of science, the term quark refers to a subatomic particle. Recently, the word has also been adopted as the name of a popular European cheese. Quark cheese is similar in taste to cottage cheese, however, it doesn’t have curds. Instead, it’s smooth and creamy, most commonly used in German cheesecake. Quark often finds its way into breakfast foods like crepes and oatmeal. And it can be substituted for ricotta in lasagna and manicotti. So as you can tell, quark is pretty versatile. You’ve probably come across it in the grocery store and didn’t even know it, since in the United States it’s often referred to as pot cheese or farmer’s cheese. It’s World Quark Day, a great time to try this delicious cheese with a funny name. Early Spanish explorers were fascinated by the small white flower that would burst from a heated kernel of corn. It wasn’t until the late 1800s, however, that popcorn really took off. That’s when Candy store owner, Charles Cretors, developed a steam machine for popping corn. He sold the snack from horse drawn wagons throughout the streets of Chicago. Around this time a new confection known as Cracker Jacks was also popping up. The 1908 anthem Take Me Out To The Ballgame knocked Cracker Jacks into the stratosphere. Then in 1938, Glen Dickson took a gamble on the expensive corn popping machines by installing them in his movie theatres, and popcorn became a home run snack. This January 19th marks the 9th anniversary of National Day Calendar’s website and we credit National Popcorn Day for fueling our curiosity. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to January 18th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate silly old bears and ZIP codes that float. Author A.A. Milne brought the adorable, honey loving bear, Winnie the Pooh to life in his 1926 book series. The stories were inspired by a black bear named Winnie who lived at the London Zoo. The author’s son, Christopher Robin, would visit the bear often and named his own teddy bear after her. That’s right, the original Winnie was a female. These tender stories featured friendship and characters that resonated with folks all over the world. And because they were written in the time between two world wars, their innocence became a prized touchstone. Today the books have been translated into more than 50 languages! On National Winnie the Pooh Day we celebrate Milne’s birthday and his classic legacy of gentle adventures in the Hundred Acre Woods. There are 41,692 ZIP Codes in the United States. But 48222 is one-of-a-kind. This is the only floating ZIP Code. It belongs to the J.W. Westcott II, a mail ship based out of Detroit. Founded in 1874 by John Ward Westcott, this company delivers mail to ships as they pass Detroit. The crews of freighters radio the Westcott Company, which then checks for mail and then sails out to deliver the mail. Westcott operates 24/7, 365 except when the Great Lakes freeze over. On National Michigan Day, we celebrate the Great Lake State. And if you don’t like it, talk to the hand. I’m Anna Devere and I’m John McClain. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to January 17th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate class acts and visionary dreamers. On December 31, 2021, actress, comedian, and producer Betty Marion White Ludden passed away at the age of 99. Born on January 17, 1922, Betty’s talent was so legendary that in 2018, Guinness World Records named her the female entertainer with the longest career. She first appeared in a 1939 radio broadcast at the age of 17, and for the next 82 years she never stopped. Her grace and charisma touched the world, while her endearing wit was featured in countless television shows and movies, including The Mary Tyler Moore Show, The Golden Girls and Hot in Cleveland. This year National Day Calendar created National Classy Day in her honor. We hope that her light never goes out and that many more follow in her footsteps. Martin Luther King was once called the apostle of nonviolence by President Johnson, for his use of civil disobedience throughout his legendary service. As a clergyman, activist and leader of the civil rights movement Dr. King is perhaps best known for his “I Have A Dream” speech. Hundreds of streets throughout our country still bear the name of this Nobel Peace Prize winner. But Dr. King knew that the honor of that title belonged to many. For this reason he chose to share the prize money with several organizations including the Gandhi Society for Human Rights. For as he said, “we must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools.” On Martin Luther King Jr. Day we honor the unifying spirit of a man whose voice still echoes that dream today. I’m Anna Devere and I’m John McClain. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to January 16th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate deep thoughts and a bite of cookie history. According to some philosophers, there is no such thing as nothing. With the very idea of thinking of the concept of nothingness, you’re proving that it doesn’t exist. That may sound like a big concept, but I think we can all relate. In the middle of our hectic lives, there’s almost no time for nothing. But the truth is we need to take a step back and relax— and basically, do nothing. Turn off your phone, stay away from social media, take a nap. Embrace the nothingness. It’s not often that you can get away with it, but on National Nothing Day, you’ve got the perfect excuse. When someone asks you what you’re doing, feel free to tell them to buzz off because you’re busy doing nothing. Which is actually something. Kinda. 19th Century physicians believed that most illnesses were caused by digestive problems. The remedy they most often prescribed was a small biscuit or cookie. So when Charles Roser invented a machine to fold fig jam into dough, the Kennedy Baking Company saw an opportunity. Based in Cambridge, Massachusetts they were already naming cookies after nearby cities. When they purchased the recipe for Roser’s fig cookie in 1891 they had a few choices for the name. One was Shrewsbury. And thank goodness they had the sense to choose Newton, Massachusetts instead. And that is how Fig Newtons got their name. No offense to Shrewsbury—the Fig Shrewsbury just doesn’t have quite the same ring to it. On National Fig Newton Day, pour yourself a glass of milk and enjoy this bite of cookie history. I’m Anna Devere and I’m John McClain. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to January 15th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate causing a stir and carbs with a checkered past. It’s said that on this day in 1797, John Hetherington—a London hat maker—stepped out into the street wearing his latest creation. A top hat. And to say it made an impression is an understatement. According to reports, Mr. Hetherington “appeared on the public highway wearing upon his head what he called a silk hat (which was of a shiny lustre and calculated to frighten timid people)”… Officers of the Crown stated that several women fainted at the unusual sight, while children screamed, dogs yelped and a boy was thrown down by the crowd…and had his right arm broken.” Mr. Hetherington was brought up on charges of inciting a riot and fined 500 Pounds. On National Hat Day, put on your favorite hat and step out in something that makes an impression on the folks around you. The recipe for making bagels was once a closely guarded secret. Jewish immigrants in New York City had brought this baked good to America in the early 1900s. They formed a union to keep their tradition to themselves and to keep jobs within their community. Only the sons of members were offered membership, and meetings were conducted only in Yiddish. As crazy as it may sound today, this bagel union was extremely powerful. But they only made bagels, you’re thinking. Well, when workers went on strike in the 1950s, all but 2 bagel bakeries in Manhattan had to close, leading to what was called a Bagel Famine. And the sales of lox dropped by over 50%. On National Bagel Day, we celebrate our love for chewy, delicious bagels and the fact that you can find them almost anywhere today. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to January 14th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a well traveled meat and the man who made all the difference just by rolling out of bed. Pastrami, in its original form, was created by the Ottoman Turks. Their version was a salt-cured, spiced beef or lamb called pastirma. Because of its jerky-like texture it traveled easily and traders brought it to Eastern Europe. It became popular in Romania, where goose became the preferred meat rather than beef and it was called pastramă. When immigrants came to New York City, the recipe was switched back to beef brisket because that meat was cheaper and more readily available. The recipe was also changed to use a weaker salt brine, making for a softer cut of meat. No one’s entirely sure why the name changed to pastrami, but it’s probably because it rhymed with “salami,” which made it easier to order. On National Hot Pastrami Sandwich Day, order up one of these well traveled subs. We nearly missed the official founding of our nation because people couldn’t show up on time. The United States colonies signed the Treaty of Paris to end the war with England on September 3, 1783. They were then given 6 months to ratify the agreement and send it back to England to make it official. However, the ocean voyage took about 2 months, so the Continental Congress needed to vote on the treaty by January at the latest. Although delegates were called to meet in November, not enough of them showed up. If Richard Beresford of South Carolina hadn’t left his sickbed to vote, the whole war could have been for nothing. On Ratification Day we celebrate one of America’s lesser-known holidays and one man who made all the difference. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to January 13th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate sticky stories and a man who topped the charts. We see them every day, but have you ever paid attention to the stickers on many fruits and vegetables? These are known as PLUs, or "price look up" labels, and they’re the same everywhere around the world. So if you buy a banana in Germany the code on it will be identical to one you buy in Minnesota. These stickers also have a story to tell: If a fruit has been grown with pesticides, the 4-digit code starts with a 3 or 4. If it’s GMO, the code is 5 digits and starts with an 8. And if the produce is organic, there’s a 5-digit code that starts with a 9. A lot of info for such a small item, right? And here’s a tip for celebrating National Sticker Day, if you can’t remove that sticker from your apple, use a piece of tape to get it off more easily. One of the greatest songwriters in American history was born on July 4th, 1826, which seems only fitting. Over a century before Elvis Presley or The Beatles were topping the charts, Stephen Foster was making his indelible mark on American culture. While his name may not be instantly recognizable, his songs certainly are. In 1847, the song Oh Susanna became his first big hit and catapulted him to fame. It became even more popular when the miners in the California gold rush adopted it as an anthem. Later, songs like Camptown Races, Beautiful Dreamer, and My Old Kentucky Home cemented his place in the pantheon of American music. On Stephen Foster Memorial Day, we celebrate the man who created hits that have stood the test of time. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to January 12th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate historical healthcare and chickens with “kick.” Because of its busy port Philadelphia was one of the fastest-growing cities in the American Colonies. As the population grew, so did the need for medical care. Enter Benjamin Franklin. In addition to all of his inventions and political influence, Franklin helped create America’s first public hospital along with the first hospital pharmacy. At the time, medicine was shipped in from Great Britain, so when the War of Independence began, drugs were in short supply. As a result, the role of the pharmacist became much more important. They found homeopathic remedies for their patients, which helped shape the future of medicine in the United States. On National Pharmacist Day we celebrate the men and women who continue to shape our healthcare system. Country Captain is a chicken curry dish with a long association to the American South. But just when did this marriage of exotic spices and humble chicken take place? We know that Britain’s longtime presence in India gave them a taste for curry’s spicy mix of cumin, coriander, ginger garlic and turmeric. Country Captain was served aboard British trading ships, with the word “country” referring to things indigenous to India. This food sailed west to the ports of Charleston and Savannah and eventually became a favorite of Franklin D. Roosevelt and General George Patton. It was even added to the United States Army’s Field Ration Menu because Patton loved it so much. On National Curried Chicken Day we celebrate the culinary union that has lasted for ages. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to January 11th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate natural wonders and changing things up. Arkansas is known for many things, but it has a valuable surprise up its sleeve. The Natural State is home to the only active diamond mine in the country; the Crater of Diamonds, near Murfreesboro. Most of the gemstones mined from this location are colored brown or yellow. But there have been a few whoppers found over the years. In 1924, miners unearthed the largest diamond ever found in North America: the Uncle Sam Diamond, a 40.23-carat white gem. Then in 1997, Shirley Strawn discovered a 3.03-carat stone that is certified as flawless and is considered one of the only perfect diamonds in the world. It’s displayed at the visitor center at the Crater of Diamonds State Park and you may want to check it out on National Arkansas Day. January is National Hobby Month and if you’ve never thought of hobbies as part of your selfcare routine why not start today? This is your chance to explore what brings you a little bit of joy each day. Austin Kleon, the author of Steal Like An Artist says that hobbies are something creative that’s just for you; “something that gives but doesn’t take.” With this in mind, it’s time to try something new. Whether it’s painting, photography, exercising or crafting, making fun activities part of your daily routine will boost your mood and your overall well being. And that’s good for those around you too! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to January 10th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate cutting costs and savory soup. If you believe in the old adage that “a penny saved is a penny earned” then listen up! Did you know that tuning up your heating system can save from three to ten percent on your energy bill? And that’s not all. Tips such as carpooling, taking shorter showers and using energy efficient light bulbs can make a huge difference to your bottom line. On National Cut Your Energy Costs Day, celebrate the little things that add up to big savings! Some say that the secret to delicious soup is letting the ingredients simmer for a long time. But how about a recipe that's been simmering for 45 years? On a busy street in Bangkok, one soup pot has been tended by three generations of cooks, who stir and add ingredients to it every single day. The flavor of this Beef Noodle soup is incomparable and those who have tried it are devoted fans. About 150 pounds of beef are used to make the soup each day. And each night a portion of it is placed in a separate pot to simmer while the main 5 foot pot is washed. Not all recipes take 45 years, and we bet that Mom’s chicken noodle tastes just as good to you. During National Soup Month simmer up your own favorite recipe for a bowl of warm comfort. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to January 9th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate shocking effects and reaching great heights. Did you ever rub your feet on the carpet and then zap someone? Then you already know the magic of static electricity! When the positive and negative charges of an atom are out of balance and have nowhere to go they build up and stay static in one place, until they are released. A spark of static electricity can measure thousands of volts, but has very little current and only lasts for a short period of time. Lightening is a powerful and dangerous example of static electricity and while it has the power to knock over trees it’s also relatively harmless. About 70 percent of people struck by lightning survive. On National Static Electricity Day celebrate this force of nature that’s useful in photocopiers and printers and also good for annoying your friends The first manned balloon flight in America took place on January 9, 1793. Jean Pierre Blanchard, ascended to a height of nearly 6,000 feet in a hydrogen filled balloon and then made a successful landing in New Jersey. Almost 200 years later, another aeronaut made a spectacular, but less famous flight in California. Larry Walters attached 42 weather balloons to an aluminum lawn chair, pumped them full of helium and sailed off into the air. Unfortunately, he had not planned his flight very carefully and soon found himself 16,000 feet above the ground. Walters stayed there for nearly 2 hours before he got cold and descended by popping balloons with a pellet gun. On National Balloon Ascension Day, celebrate by taking a balloon ride but please leave the piloting to the professionals. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to January 8th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate curious keys and Anglophile treats. If you’ve ever looked at the top row of your keyboard, then you’ve noticed the made-up word QWERTY. How exactly did QWERTY come to be and not something more intuitive like alphabetizing the letters? Turns out that it was because the design was proprietary. The Remington company began producing typewriters based on the design of Christopher Latham Sholes, who had come up with the QWERTY arrangement. When the Remington company sold the typewriters, they also held trainings on how to use them. Similar to what Microsoft or Apple does today. This keyboard arrangement has been around so long that everyone just accepts it as normal. By the way, the word “typewriter” can be typed using only the top row of your keyboard. It’s World Typing Day and whether you’re a speed-typist or prefer the hunt-and-peck method keyboards show no favorites. Fans of English toffee may be surprised to learn that the treat they’ve enjoyed all these years isn’t toffee at all. Hang on, let me explain. Most of the English toffee we eat in America is actually buttercrunch. So what’s the difference? It’s all about the ingredients. Toffee in England uses brown sugar in its recipe, but the buttercrunch we make in the United States is made with white sugar. Also, we often add nuts and other flavorings, while our British friends do not. Then why do we call this treat English toffee? Maybe it’s because it just sounds more posh. No matter which recipe you prefer, on National English Toffee Day celebrate the sweet, buttery crunch found on both sides of the pond. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to January 7th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate delicious imports and wobbly heads. You may think of tempura as a Japanese dish, but the art of batter frying first came to Japan from Portugese missionaries. In the mid 16th century Nagasaki, Japan was a closed-port to most of the world, but the Portugese were allowed to bring in Catholicism and with it, a food that they made during lent. The name tempura actually comes from the Latin quattuor anni tempora or Days of Ember when no red meat was eaten. And with fresh veggies, prawns and fish in a delicious light batter, apparently no one was missing it. The dish caught on with street vendors called yatai, and it soon became a foodie favorite. On National Tempura Day we celebrate this culinary technique that covers everything from ice cream to squid. Bobbleheads have been around since the 18th Century. They were brought to Europe from China, where they were known as temple nodders or nodding head figures. But the bobbleheads we treasure today, first became popular in the 1960s, when sports teams began depicting their mascots and famous players. Some of the earliest were Mickey Mantle and Willie Mays. Then in 1964, the first modern bobbleheads that didn’t depict an athlete were made of the Beatles, and they are still some of the most sought after by collectors today. The National Bobblehead Hall of Fame Museum houses the world’s largest collection and if you happen to be in Milwaukee you can drop in to see the exhibits. You could even celebrate with a custom made figure of yourself as long as you don’t let it go to your head on National Bobblehead Day. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to January 6th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate staying cozy and the age of technology. If you think you’re cold this winter, try living in Antarctica. In winter, the wind chills can plunge to minus 76°F. One of the only animals who can survive in this climate is the Emperor Penguin and they do it by cuddling together. Their system is simple; one penguin stands in place, surrounded by its friends who protect it from the cold wind. Then, that penguin steps out and another takes its turn in the warm center of the circle. They keep rotating until everyone gets a chance to be nice and cozy. On National Cuddle Up Day snuggle up with someone you love, and be glad it doesn’t take a village to stay warm. Everything from the invention of the wheel to your smartphone can be considered technology. History is shaped by these gadgets and achievements, and no matter how far into the future you daydream, if you can imagine it, someone will create it. But there are still some who consider technology dangerous. Everything from railroads to cars to electricity were protested and derided back in their day. Anna: Marlo, where are you right now? Marlo: I am broadcasting from CES. On National Technology Day we celebrate the wonders that advance our world and keep us a buzz with food for thought. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to January 5th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate an exotic species and sweet inventions. The Hooded Pitohui is a colorful songbird that lives in the forests of New Guinea. The bird’s black and orange coloring is reminiscent of its cousin the oriole. But there’s something about the Pitohui other than its coloring that makes this bird stand out in the crowd—it’s poisonous. There are many toxic species of reptiles and fish in the world, but there are only a handful of birds who fit this description. This Pitohui’s poison was discovered when a scientist accidentally cut his finger on the bird’s claw. When he licked the cut, his mouth started to go numb too. Luckily, the poison wasn’t deadly, but it is for predators and that’s exactly why these birds evolved this way. On National Bird Day, we celebrate our feathered friends from a safe distance. The first recipes for whipped cream date back to 1549 when they used a willow branch to beat the cream into “snow milk.” This technique lasted for the next few centuries until a clothing salesman from St. Louis changed all of that. During WWII when cream was rationed, Aaron “Bunny” Lapin began pedaling Sta-Whip, a substitute made of light cream and vegetable oil. Then in 1946 Crown Cork and Seal Company made the first seamless aerosol canister. Lapin used the technology, changed the name to Reddi-wip and with an army of milkmen to deliver it, he made a fortune in only a few short years. On National Whipped Cream Day celebrate Bunny Lapin’s birthday with a little extra on the top. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to January 4th, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the “Show Me” State and random facts that could pay off bigtime! The Mississippi River divides the United States roughly into half and crossing over it serves as the gateway to the western part of the country. To mark the crossing point, the city of St. Louis, Missouri, held a contest to find the best design for a landmark. Nearly 200 architects from around the world submitted entries, and the city chose the submission from Eero Saarinen. Eero was the son of a famous architect who had designed buildings across Finland and the United States. And this is likely how the selection committee accidentally addressed the winning telegram to Eero’s father Eliel. This caused some minor embarrassment during the celebration when the gaff was discovered but the Gateway Arch remains a proud landmark. On National Missouri Day, we celebrate the Show Me State and all its impressive sights. Marlo: Hey Anna, what 1987 song holds the record for most MTV Video Music Awards with 9? Anna: Hmmm, I have to think about that. Marlo: If you’ve ever attended quiz night at a local pub, you know how exciting trivia can be. The answers to questions like these might even hold the key to cash and prizes. In the early days of television, trivia was all the rage. Quiz shows were so popular that when news broke about cheating on the shows, it became national news and Congress held hearings to get to the bottom of things. And if you’re still chewing on that first question, the answer is…. Anna: Wait, wait, don’t tell me…It’s Sledgehammer! Marlo: That’s right! On National Trivia Day, celebrate your inner know-it-all by sharing this, or any other random facts. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to January 3rd, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the sweet life and blowing off holiday steam. If life is a bowl full of cherries, why not have yours dipped in chocolate? Folks in the 1700s knew what a perfect mid-winter pick me up this candy could be. In England they included kirsch or cherry liqueur. Here in the United States the treat evolved into a sweet liquid center surrounded by milk or dark chocolate. Even the National Confectioners Association has been known to recognize National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day as an annual event. But if this candy is a bit too much for your sweet tooth try any combination of cherries and chocolate in cookies, bars or cake. One of the best-selling foods during the holiday season is fruitcake. It’s also one of the most disliked and chances are good, this eyesore is still staring you in the face. The people of Manitou Springs, Colorado have a solution. For the last 20 years they’ve hosted an event that gives folks a chance to work out their seasonal frustrations by hurling this leftover into the sky. That’s right, people come from near and far to beat up on fruitcakes by flinging them either by hand, cannon, or giant slingshot. There are even competitions to see who can propel them the farthest. The price of admission to this event is a non-perishable food item which is donated to charity. On National Fruitcake Toss Day, celebrate your own way of disposing with this leftover, but please launch responsibly. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to January 2nd, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a feast for everyone and a voyage of the imagination. In the mid 16th Century Swedish folks gathered around a Brannvinsbord, where they enjoyed a pre-dinner array of schnapps or shots of alcohol. This evolved into the smorgasbord or casual offering of appetizers and snacks before a more formal dinner. When the Swedes rolled out this food showcase at the 1939 New York World’s Fair it was an instant hit. Although the English speaking crowd preferred the term “buffet” which was the French word for the sideboard serving table in a dining room. I can just imagine how that went down. After a few rounds of schnapps everyone sounds like the Swedish chef. On National Buffet Day, head to the feeding table where there’s something for everyone. Jules Verne is famous for books like Twenty Thousand Leagues Under The Sea and Journey to the Center of the Earth. He’s also known as the Father of Science Fiction. And his novels weren’t only exciting for his time, they also imagined technology that didn’t yet exist. Things like helicopters, submarines, space travel, and even videoconferencing! Though he probably didn’t foresee us having business meetings in our jammies. As a rule, science fiction blends technology with imagination, but Verne almost seems like a time traveler with the accuracy of his predictions. They say art imitates life, but in the case of Jules Verne, maybe it’s the other way around. On National Science Fiction Day celebrate with your own voyage of the imagination. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
If you’re looking for a “hair of the dog” that bit you during last night’s reveling, consider the Bloody Mary. It’s become a brunch staple, but how did this drink get such a gruesome name? Many people assume it’s because of Mary Tudor, Henry VIII’s first daughter. But the widely accepted story is that a Paris bartender in the 1920s created a cocktail of tomato juice and vodka. One of the patrons loved the drink and suggested the name "Bloody Mary” because it reminded him of a Chicago bar called Bucket of Blood Club, and a girl named Mary who worked there. Strange way to pay tribute to someone you have a crush on, but maybe there is more to that story. On National Bloody Mary Day celebrate with this classic drink that helps repair the most ghoulish hangover. New Year’s Day is one of the most recognized holidays around the world. Though it has been celebrated for thousands of years, the exact beginning of a new year has gone through many changes. In ancient Rome, the calendar started with Martius or March and only had ten months. January and February were added later and the twelve month Julian calendar was eventually adopted. In ancient Babylon, new year’s resolutions were about paying back debts and returning borrowed stuff. If that is on your list it’s a great start. As the new year begins may we follow the advice of author C.S. Lewis who said, “You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.” We hope you’ll join us as we find new reasons to celebrate together. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to December 31, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate memorable wines and forgettable songs. Nothing says celebration like a good champagne, and while the genuine article comes only from the Champagne region of France, there are plenty of good bubbly wines from California and Italy. Prices vary widely, and if you’ve ever wondered why bottles of Dom Peringnon fetch up to $50,000 a bottle, it’s because Dom only produces wine during years when the grapes have reached top quality. That means that since they opened in 1921 they have only produced 36 vintages. If splurging at that price point is not your thing, just pop open a bottle of your favorite sparkling beverage. On National Champagne Day we toast to your health and good fortune and hope you’ll remember to always drink responsibly. Tonight, we bid farewell to 2021 and at the stroke of midnight, we’ll all attempt to sing a song that few of us understand. Auld Lang Syne is sometimes referred to as “the most famous song that nobody knows,” and that’s not only because people have been drinking before they sing it. Written by Robert Burns, the phrase is Scottish and roughly translates to “days gone by.” Somewhere along the way, it was set to music and became a traditional Scottish song. So how did it come to be associated with New Year’s Eve? For that we can thank the famous bandleader Guy Lombardo. Beginning in the 1920s, he played the song on his New Years Eve radio show, and for the next 30 New Years after that. We thank you for joining us during 2021 and on New Year’s Eve we welcome all the new opportunities to Celebrate Every Day! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to December 30, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the power of pork and other ordinary ingredients. If you’ve ever made a volcano at home then you already know the magic of bicarbonate of soda. In 2017 the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry decided to make the world’s largest baking soda volcano to best the record of an elementary school in the U.K. OMSI’s volcano was constructed from pipes, tarps and scaffolding that was filled with 66 gallons of vinegar, along with 50 gallons of baking soda mixed with water. 3,000 people witnessed the event at the site with another 72,000 viewers watching the livestream. You may be planning your own epic celebration of New’s Years Eve, but on National Bicarbonate of Soda Day, remember that baking soda also makes a good hangover cure. Most people think that the phrase “bringing home the bacon” refers to a paycheck, although actual bacon is worth cheering for as well. But it turns out that the saying goes back to 12th century England, when married men would swear an oath that they had not argued with their spouse for a whole year and a day. Upon taking this oath they were rewarded with a side of bacon. The phrase then referred to men who were seen as exemplary citizens and husbands. Another story says that the phrase came about in 1906, when boxer Joe Gans got a telegram from his mother before fighting for the world lightweight championship. Her message was simply to “bring home the bacon,” which he did, though not literally. On Bacon Day we pay tribute to a food that receives a hero's welcome, no matter who brings it home. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to December 29, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate making the most of the final countdown and a National soup for the soul. It’s hard to believe that it’s already time to say goodbye to 2021. Most of us look forward to the end of the year, with the promise of a new year just around the corner. But before we break out the party hats and noisemakers, there are still a few things that need our attention. Are there business purchases or donations that can be made that will impact your tax returns? Have you set up your health plans for next year? And did you make use of all the benefits you had for 2021? If there’s still money in a Flex Spending account, now’s the time to purchase that cool new pair of glasses or get your teeth checked. The clock is literally ticking, so let’s make the most of it on Tick Tock Day. Philadelphia Pepper Pot has been nicknamed the “soup that won the war.” During the brutal winter of 1777 the Continental Army had dug in at Valley Forge and George Washington asked the army’s chef to prepare a meal that would both warm the troops and boost their morale. The chef rounded up some peppercorns, small bits of meat and other ingredients and the rest of course is history. Today you can find recipes online that mimic this one pot wonder and though you may have better ingredients on hand than the chefs at Valley Forge, peppercorns are the humble seasoning that brings it all together. On National Pepper Pot Day, we celebrate the simple things that keep the home fires burning. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to December 28, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the humble beginnings of some of our favorite pastimes. When you watch the Academy Awards, are you tempted to go grab some popcorn as they announce the winners in the Short Film category? Then perhaps you'll be interested to know that we owe a huge thanks to a short film called “Workers Leaving the Lumiere Factory,” which made its debut in 1895 at the Grand Cafe in Paris. The movie was only a few minutes long and showed workers going home at the end of their shift. The 33 people in the audience that day became the first ever to view a motion picture in a theater and right then and there, our fascination for the movies was born. On National Short Film Day, we celebrate this one small clip and the giant leap forward for the movie making industry. A standard pack of cards may be used for playing a variety of games, some of which are played for money. It’s said that the game of poker, which originated in Louisiana, is a derivative of the game of dominos which dates back a few thousand years. What’s common to both games is the art of bluffing. Even the best poker players in the world only have a 5 percent advantage over other players and thus bluffing is what makes the game more interesting. The earliest games like Texas Hold’em were played for gold nuggets and while it's hard to calculate the winnings of those hands, the most lucrative tournament in modern times was won by Antonio Esfandari who took home a record $18.35 million. On National Card Playing Day you may wanna bone up on the skill of bluffing. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to December 27, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate being nutty as a fruitcake and starting something new. The holiday cheer may be fading fast but one treat is still alive and celebrating: the fruitcake. That’s because they are built to last. In the early 1700s these dense cakes were baked during harvest time and loaded with nuts and fruits. But they were saved until the following year to ensure the next season’s bounty. Fruitcakes also had quite a reputation for being sinfully rich. Queen Victoria was said to have waited a whole year after receiving one for her birthday before eating it, just to show proper restraint and dignity. But if your fruitcake has become a holiday joke, that gets re-gifted only to get tossed, perhaps you haven’t tasted a truly delicious one. On National Fruitcake Day, make a pledge to find a good recipe for next year. Marlo: While this month is nearly gone, it’s never too late to start something new. In case you didn’t know it, Anna it’s Learn a Foreign Language Month. Anna: How are you going to learn a new language in only four days, Marlo? Marlo: I didn’t say I was going for fluency. Just starting a new habit is what matters. John: Tim Ferriss, the entrepreneur actually has a blog post about how if you learn the 100 most used words in any language you can achieve functional fluency very quickly. Anna: I think I could do that! Marlo: I could do that too. Anna: You've got three days. Go! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to December 26th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the flavor of the season and etiquette for everyone. Peppermint sticks have been around for at least 200 years, but the red and white striped candy cane that we all associate with Christmas did not actually appear until 1900. Many folklore tales describe the symbolism behind this iconic treat which was made by hand until 1921. That’s when Brasher O. Westerfield invented a machine that turned out the 5” peppermint canes. And that’s a good thing as these days we produce more than a billion every year. Today you can find candy canes in almost any flavor, though peppermint is still the perennial favorite. On National Candy Cane Day, we invite you to savor the flavor of the season. One day in 1934, Henry Ford opened his mail and got a big surprise, a thank you note from one of America’s most infamous bank robbers. Clyde Barrow wrote to thank Ford for putting out such a quality car. Or as he put it, “For sustained speed and freedom from trouble, the Ford has got every other car beat… It don’t hurt anything to tell you what a fine car you got in the V8.” Today is a good day to surprise your family and friends with letters of your own. Thank them for their holiday gifts or their general love and support. And since handwritten messages are becoming a lost art, surprise them even more by putting pen to paper. On National Thank You Note Day, show people that you care enough to go the extra mile to acknowledge their generosity. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to December 25, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the windy road of Christmas and the most punderful time of the year. While Christmas enjoys popularity throughout the world today, its traditions have fluctuated widely. In medieval times, the birth of Jesus Christ was a solemn observance with very little feasting or singing. The Renaissance gave rise to the gift giving, decorating and caroling we enjoy today. The traditions of tree trimming and mistletoe came from the ancient celebration of Yule, which was adopted into Roman customs along with Christianity. For this reason, early puritans banned Christmas for nearly 20 years in America. The true spirit of this holiday is alive today because of our universal love for celebration. No matter how you keep this tradition, today we wish all you a very merry Christmas. Marlo: It’s also A’phabet Day! Anna: You mean “Alphabet”. Marlo: No. A’phabet. It’s the word “alphabet,” but with no L. Get it? Noel. Like Christmas. Anna: That’s right it’s bad pun day isn’t it? I remember this from last year. Marlo: Yep. Today, while you’re enjoying the festivities, see how many puns you can slip into conversations. Anna: I wish I could just enjoy the day without puns. Marlo: Is that why you have resting Grinch Face? Anna: Hey! Marlo: Yule be sorry if you don’t attend my Christmas party this year. Anna: You’re being a jerk, Marlo. Marlo: It takes one to snow one. Anna: But wait there’s myrrh. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to December 24, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate clearing up the mystery behind two holiday favorites. You may be scratching your head as to how eggnog its name and which came first, the egg or the nog? It turns out that alcohol was once served in carved wooden mugs called noggins. In the middle ages a drink known as posset was made with milk, spices, and alcohol and served as a cold remedy. From there the trail gets foggy with some adding eggs to the recipe and others calling it egg flip for the way it got poured between two pitchers. Because rum was known as grog here in the States, one bartender dubbed it “egg and grog.” Confusing, we know, but one thing is sure, National Eggnog Day celebrates the delicious flavor that’s been a holiday favorite much longer than pumpkin spice. T’was the night before Christmas, and all through the house… You know the rest. Most of us do. Clement Moore’s classic poem is one of the best-known literary works in American history. When he wrote it in 1822, he used the title “A Visit from St. Nicholas.” He shared the story with a friend who liked it so much that they sent it to a newspaper for publication, without Moore’s permission, and without his name attached. The poem became a huge success, though no one knew Moore had written it. He was reluctant to claim the piece until his children urged him to do so, and in 1844 he finally included it in a book of poetry. On Christmas Eve, we celebrate with a quote from Moore’s poem: “Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night!” I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to December 23, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a festivus for the rest of us and festive recycling. Reader’s Digest author Daniel O’Keefe created a new holiday tradition of “Airing Family Grievances” that was first celebrated in 1966. Today we celebrate this “Festivus for the rest of us,” largely due to the popularity of a Seinfeld episode that was written by O’Keefe’s son. The tv version takes family tension to comedy extremes. Characters roast each other at the dinner table and wrestle around an aluminum pole to display their “feats of strength.” What makes this bit of pop culture so delicious is that it’s all too familiar. No matter how you celebrate the holidays you’re sure to reach the point of screeching “SERENITY NOW!” Ironically Festivus is celebrated on December 23rd in honor of Daniel O’Keefe’s first date with his future wife, which is a kismet miracle in itself. It’s the time of year to get presents you don’t want from friends and relatives. Everyone’s been there. Opening a gift in front of your grandmother and having to pretend you love it…Meh. But you could always just re-gift, right? While it’s not considered polite, thousands of people pass along their unloved presents each year. So what’s the proper etiquette in this situation? According to Emily Post, there’s really only one “polite” way to re-gift. If you get two of the same gift, you can pass it along to a friend. But that seems boring. Celebrate National Re-Gifting Day by giving a friend a gift that someone else gave to you and think of it as the ultimate in recycling. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to December 22, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a dynamic duo and a happy retirement for the old jalopy. If you’re already burnt out on holiday goodies why not try something healthy and delicious by celebrating National Date Nut Bread Day? Dates have been cultivated since ancient times from Mesopotamia to prehistoric Egypt, and are prized for their sticky, caramel sweetness. But they also provide protein, fiber and minerals. Nuts add a super-charged nutritional crunch and this combination has been used in quick bread recipes since the first one appeared in 1939. Back then it was served as a tea time treat but today this dynamic duo practically passes for health food! On National Date Nut Bread Day, celebrate a warm from the oven goodie with cream cheese frosting and kick the fruitcake to the curb. More charitable donations are made in December than in any other month. Yes, it’s probably because people need a tax deduction, but it also comes at a time of the year when some folks need help the most. Even if money is tight, you can still make a difference by donating an old or unused vehicle during National Car Donation Month. The car doesn’t even have to run and the charities make it as simple as possible for you to donate. And if you don’t have a car to give away, you can still help to raise awareness of this charitable act. Spread the word on Social Media. And if your neighbor still doesn’t take the hint, you can etch “Donate Me” in the dirt on the windshield of his old jalopy. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to December 21, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate vacation sweet spots and turning your holiday frown upside down. If you want to catch the sunrise before anyone else in the United States, pack your bags and head to Maine. Specifically the West Quoddy Head Lighthouse. This building was constructed in 1858 and is at the easternmost point of the country. That means it sees the first rays of the sun each day. And it’s hard to miss, even though Maine is home to more than 60 lighthouses. The West Quoddy Head lighthouse is white with big red stripes, looking like a gigantic candy cane that guides ships into port. It’s a pretty sweet spot to check out if you ever visit the state they call Vacationland USA. On National Maine Day, celebrate the people and culture of the Pine Tree State. The word humbug dates back to the 1750s when it was used to describe anything false or deceptive. Charles Dickens assigned this phrase to Ebenezer Scrooge, who scoffed at anyone who would find good cheer in a world full of poverty and misery. While it took some ghostly visitations to turn Scrooge around, perhaps it’s wise to take stock of our own frustrations. It’s okay to admit that the holiday season is stressful. If the hustle and bustle is filling you with humbug it’s probably best to make time for yourself. And if that’s not enough, try ditching all the stuff that makes you crabby and focus on what brings you joy! On Humbug Day, celebrate your own transformation into all things bright and beautiful. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to December 20, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate festive drinks and songs that stick. If you’re a fan of sangria then you already know how festive this drink can be. Pour some red or white wine into a pitcher with fruits and some seasonal spices and you’ll see why the Spanish welcome this libation all year round. It is said that sangria originated in early Greek and Roman times when safe drinking water was not always available. Today true sangria is bottled in Spain and Portugal but every culture seems to make it their own with simple variations. At the 1964 World’s Fair, Americans added an extra shot of brandy. On National Sangria Day, celebrate by adding some warmth and cheer to your wintertime festivities! In 1939, the department store Montgomery Wards wanted to create their own Christmas character. They had been giving away coloring books as a promotion each year, but decided that designing their own would save money. One of their admen—Robert L. May—was asked to create a character and write a children’s book about it. He was inspired by his daughter’s love for reindeer and had an epiphany while staring out the window at the fog. The Christmas icon he came up with was…Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, which was eventually made into a song and the rest is Yuletide history. This tune is one of the most popular Christmas carols to this day. On Go Caroling Day, celebrate your own favorite repertoire of songs and don’t forget the most famous reindeer of all. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to December 19, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate gifts that keep on giving and candies that go the distance. Anna: Hey Marlo, you’re a numbers guy. If someone gave you all the gifts from the song The Twelve Days of Christmas, do you know how many total gifts would you end up with? Marlo: Y’know, I’ve never even thought of that. Anna: You would have 364 items in total, which are mostly bird related. Marlo: Yeah, there’s no re-gifting those. Anna: The best part would be the 12 pear trees (with partridges, of course). But before you buy someone a pear tree, you’d better check for what variety they prefer because there are a lot! Can you guess how many? Marlo: Marlo guesses Anna: Get this…There are 3,000 different kinds of pears in the world. Which is perfect because that means you have plenty to choose from during National Pear Month. In 1949, Bill and Dorothy Harmsen founded Jolly Rancher in Golden, Colorado. They chose the name because it sounded friendly and had a bit of western flair. It was also a nod to the Jolly Farmer, a drugstore in their hometown of Minneapolis. Originally, the Harmsens sold ice cream, chocolate, and candy, but because ice cream sales plummeted during the winter months, they focused their business on producing hard candies. The first flavors were grape, apple, and fire stix, but their most popular flavor—cherry—didn’t come along till years later. Today, Jolly Rancher produces the most popular hard candy of all time proving that a little perseverance can pay off big! On National Hard Candy Day, savor the long lasting sweetness of a candy that sticks with you. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to December 18, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we honor our heroes and celebrate amazing pairs. In 1992 a wreath company in Harrington, Maine found themselves with a surplus of holiday wreaths and their founder, Morrill Worcester decided to donate them to Arlington cemetery, a place he had visited as a boy. As he laid the extra wreaths upon the grave sites, he thought of his own life and the success he owed to those fallen heroes. Today, the nonprofit group Wreaths Across America follows in his footsteps with their donation to more than 2,100 cemeteries. By partnering with thousands of schools, and scouting groups they remember, honor and teach the importance of the sacrifice of our veterans on National Wreaths Across America Day. Twins are fascinating, from their ability to finish each other’s sentences to the striking similarities they share even if they are separated at birth. This genetic anomaly can prove useful, like when a toddler needs a rest from acting on the set of Full House, or when selling Doublemint gum. But did you know that it's also helpful for getting us to mars? Astronaut Scott Kelly spent over a year in space and scientists were able to study the effects this had on his body by comparing the results to his twin brother Mark who stayed back on earth. Turns out that Scott grew a few inches taller and furthered the research for the two year voyage to mars. On National Twin Day keep your eyes open for these wunderkind and all the amazing things they do. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to December 17, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the tradition of poor taste and nature’s sweet bounty. While many traditions uphold the beauty and magic of Christmas some are just plain weird. Behold, the ugly Christmas sweater! No one is 100 percent sure how this became a holiday thing, but tacky sweaters can trace their popularity back to 1980s TV comedies. It started on the Cosby Show and became a running joke that sitcom dads wore sweaters that looked like abstract art. Then in 2002, the city of Vancouver threw an ugly Christmas sweater party that was such a hit, it became an annual event. Each year, the proceeds from this fashion eyesore are donated to the Make A Wish foundation and that’s a truly beautiful thing! On National Ugly Christmas Sweater Day show your holiday spirit with something fun and hideous. This day was made for pancakes, French toast and biscuits as we pour on the sweetness of National Maple Syrup Day. During cold weather, maple trees store starch in their trunks that is converted to sugar in the Spring. The sap from red, black and sugar maples is collected and processed by heating to evaporate most of the water, which produces a concentrated syrup. About 40 gallons of sap are needed for one gallon of the finished product. Thankfully, the trees that produce this sap can live up to 100 years, though they must be at least 45 years old before they can be tapped. Talk about a late bloomer! On National Maple Syrup Day we celebrate nature’s bounty with our Canadian neighbors who produce most of the maple syrup we enjoy today. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to December 16, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate saving your sanity and cocoa mania. Sometimes being popular is a hazard of the job! But it's hard to argue with success when you’re found in over 150 countries. I’m talking of course about Barbie. More than a billion Barbie dolls have been sold around the world thanks to extensive advertising and decades of popularity. Add to that her 36 movies, bigger and better dream houses every year, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah… there’s bound to be a backlash. But, Barbie shares the spotlight with another annoying figure; the giant purple T-Rex, Barney. If you’re a parent, this paleolithic lounge lizard is ringing in your ears almost every day which is enough to drive anyone to the brink. On Barbie and Barney Backlash Day we’re giving everyone a time out. Go to your corners and think about it before you do something you’ll regret. The Aztecs considered cocoa beans more precious than gold and even used them as currency. But Europeans were still in the dark about cocoa mania until the Spanish came to the New World in the 16th century. Once chocolate reached the Spanish court, the secret was out. Adding sugar and spices made it all the more addicting. Chocolate houses that catered to the wealthy became all the rage. But thanks to Coenraad Johannes van Houten the Dutch process made cocoa more accessible to the masses. Today, just about anything can be made more delicious by covering it in chocolate from nuts and cookies to potato chips and popcorn. On National Chocolate Covered Anything Day go ahead and splurge as you celebrate cocoa mania. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to December 15, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate impossible jobs and inalienable rights. Have you heard the expression; “It’s like herding cats?” This refers to a job that’s so tedious it requires the patience of a saint: Kindergarten teacher, wildlife photographer, sound engineer. Marlo, did you let a cat in the studio? Because John can totally add that in later. If you find that nothing stays where you put it or your team is off in left field when you’re in the right, you’re not alone. If this sounds a lot like your job, feel free to celebrate Cat Herders Day, by taking the day off. The first 10 amendments to the US Constitution are more commonly known as the Bill of Rights. Congress created 14 official copies of the original document, one for the federal government and one for each of the original 13 states. It turns out the copies were a good precaution, as somehow four of them went missing. North Carolina’s copy of the Bill of Rights was stolen by a Union soldier during the Civil War and was missing for almost 140 years before the FBI tracked it down. Two other copies have been found over the years. One is housed in the Library of Congress, and the other is kept at the New York Public Library. Thankfully these rights are inalienable and while the paper version may go missing, on Bill of Rights Day we celebrate the permanence of this most important document. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to December 14, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate an inspiring State and monkeying around. When the crew of the Apollo 11 touched down on the Moon, Americans looked on with a sense of awe—and immense pride. And probably no one more so than the people of Alabama. Scientists and engineers in the Cotton State developed rockets for the space program using technology acquired from Germany after World War II. The rockets were designed in Alabama, but also built with steel manufactured in the state. If not for the Saturn rockets produced there, American astronauts wouldn’t have been able to get into orbit and eventually onto the moon. On National Alabama Day, celebrate the people and culture of the Cotton State…or the Yellowhammer state. They have two nicknames. Why not? They deserve it. On May 28th, 1959, two of the greatest heroes of space travel returned to Earth after a 15 minute space flight. It may not sound like much, but it was the first time astronauts were able to survive a return trip from space. And did I mention that the astronauts were both monkeys? One was named Able, and the other was Miss Baker. These brave little primates paved the way for space exploration by helping scientists to understand the physical stress of spaceflight. Unfortunately, Able passed away only a few days later, but Miss Baker lived another 25 years. When she passed away in 1984, over 300 people attended her funeral, paying tribute to her part in the history of spaceflight. On Monkey Day, we celebrate the primates who took the first steps to make mankind’s giant leap possible. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to December 13, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the convenience of cocoa and fancy fiddles. Thousands of years ago the process of making hot chocolate was long and tedious. Aztecs roasted the fruit of the cacao tree and ground it with water, chilies and even corn. They didn’t understand the health benefits, but they knew it packed a punch, and soldiers drank several cups before battle. The recipe changed over the years but the tradition carried on and hot cocoa was even given to troops during the Revolutionary War as medicine and wages. Thanks to a Dutch chemist who separated out the cocoa butter, the powder could be mixed for a handy, packable drink. On National Cocoa Day, celebrate this instant cold weather fix with some whipped cream or marshmallows. The violins and violas we play today are a legacy of Mongolian nomads. These horsemen from Inner Asia with their two string, upright instruments are considered to be the world’s first fiddlers. On the other end of the spectrum comes the gold standard of violins, the Stradivarius. Antonio Stradivari crafted about 1,100 stringed instruments during his lifetime. Today, they are rare and extremely valuable. In 2011, a Stradivarius nicknamed Lady Blunt was purchased for nearly $16 million. Another, nicknamed “the Messiah,” is so priceless that no one’s even allowed to play it. On National Violin Day, celebrate in grand style or bust out the fiddle and give a nod to the original. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to December 12, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the humble beginnings of two holiday favorites. The first gingerbread was often used in religious ceremonies thanks to the Armenian monk, Gregory of Nicopolis. In 992 AD, he taught French Christians the art of molding his favorite food into the figures of saints. But when the Brothers Grimm told the tale of Hansel and Gretel and their fateful visit to a gingerbread house, German guilds began crafting the sturdy dough into candy-covered cottages. Do you think that some stories are invented to scare kids into keeping their mitts off the treats? Cause that is one scary story. On Gingerbread House Day build your own festive villages and celebrate the sweet, spicy scent of this holiday tradition. The cheerful red plant that we associate with the holidays got its start in 16th century Mexico. One legend tells the story of a poor girl who wanted to bring the Christ child a gift. The girl gathered weeds by the side of the road and by the time she presented them, the bouquet had transformed into bright red stars. American botanist Joel Roberts Poinsett sent the first cuttings of the plant from Mexico to the United States in 1825. But it was a California farmer who made their magic bloom. Paul Ecke discovered a technique that made the seedlings grow in branches. In the early 1920s he began selling the plants at a simple roadside stand. On National Poinsettia Day we celebrate this beautiful symbol of the season and its humble beginnings. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to December 11, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate one of our favorite ways to beat the odds and the little things that keep us connected. This month recognizes the birthday of one of America’s favorite games: Bingo. While it seems pretty straight forward, the game is far more complicated than you might think. It’s estimated that there are over 500 septillion combinations of numbers that could appear on your bingo card. A septillion is a 1 with 24 zeros after it. No wonder people get so excited when they win! It was Edwin S. Lowe, a salesman from New York who came up with the idea. He then hired a math professor who created 6,000 cards, each with a different non repeating combination of numbers. Bingo halls could make more money with these cards because they cut back on the number of winners. Celebrate Bingo’s Birthday Month with a game that still makes us excited to beat the odds. In 1997, the Nokia 6110 phone introduced a simple arcade game called Snake, which is considered by many to be the first mobile app. Almost 20 years later the iPhone was released and with it, users could access nearly 500 apps. Today iPhone users can choose from almost 1.8 million of them and Android users have about 2.5 million. From navigation to learning and even performing surgery, apps have transformed our everyday lives. While they have come a long way from that first game of Snake, apps are still used to entertain us and keep us in touch with family and friends. On National App Day, celebrate the convenience of your favorite apps by sharing them with those you love. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to December 10, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate with a toast to Summer and those who change the world. If you are already chasing the midwinter blues, raise your spirits with a light Summer beer: the lager. Lagers are distinguished from other beers by their cold-conditioning process. They are made with “bottom-fermenting” yeast that can develop at colder temperatures. Before the advent of refrigeration, brewers perfected this process in cellars dug into the ground that were filled with ice. The delicious results are often described as “crisp” and “refreshing.” With so many choices from pale, amber or dark to several craft varieties, you will likely add lager to your list of favorite things. On National Lager Day, grab your friends and celebrate the midwinter season with the taste of Summer. At the age of 17, Alfred Nobel spoke five languages fluently. This was only the beginning of the young man’s accomplishments. Through the course of his life, Nobel amassed a fortune from his 87 businesses and 355 patents worldwide, including the patent for dynamite. In his third and last will, Nobel stated that the money should be given away to those who had done their best to benefit mankind. Each annual prize would recognize the fields of physics, chemistry, medicine, literature, and peace. Though it took nearly five years after his passing, the Nobel Committee has awarded these prizes every year since 1901. On Nobel Prize Day, we celebrate the generosity of Alfred Nobel and those who continue to make the world a better place. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to December 9, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the success of the underdog. Traditional clowns wore white makeup, with red noses and cheeks, and pointy hats. During the Great Depression, a clown named Emmett Kelly changed that image. People were down on their luck and while they wanted to be entertained, the usual clown shtick didn’t seem relatable. That’s when Kelly’s clown character, Weary Willie became a reflection of the times. Instead of the typical costume, Weary Willie looked more like a hobo. He wore a frown, had whiskers, and his clothes were torn and dirty. This underdog became iconic because people could see something of themselves in him. On Weary Willie Day, celebrate a clown who was a man of the people. Unless you’re afraid of clowns, in which case, forget we said anything. Pastry dough dates back to the ancient Mediterranean when it was rolled paper thin and baked into baklava. The Crusaders brought it to Europe where it became a versatile base for pies and pasties. But the variety of pastries we enjoy today is thanks to a French chef who mastered the technique of crafting dough into the sublime. Chef Careme grew up poor, but his career took off at age 15 when his larger than life creations reached the table of Napoleon Bonaparte. From there he served the royalty of Europe with his cream puffs, danish, quiches and tarts, and became one of the very first celebrity chefs. On National Pastry Day we celebrate this rich dessert and the kid who shaped his future with it. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to December 8, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate dessert on the go and glitches in time. They say that necessity is the mother of invention and that appears to be the case for our favorite combination of cookie and cake: the brownie. Legend has it that Bertha Palmer wanted a special dessert that would fit neatly into a boxed lunch for her socialite friends attending the Chicago World’s Fair of 1893. Bertha’s husband owned the Palmer House hotel and one of the chefs there devised the perfect cake-like dessert that could be eaten by hand. Apparently, dessert on the go was a hit as this same recipe is served by the Parker House hotel to this day. On National Brownie Day splurge on your own chocolate fix with or without utensils. On Pretend To Be A Time Traveler Day we invite you to slip through the space time continuum with your own imaginary voyage. This celebration began with a blog post in 2007, inviting participants to create a character from the future or past and to dress as that character for an entire day. Of course staying in character means those around you will scratch their head and wonder if you've gone mad, but you can let them in on the game by choosing a recognizable source. Books, shows and movies such as Doctor Who, Outlander, The Terminator or Groundhog Day will at least give your audience a clue as to what you're up to. And if you just don't care what others think, feel free to stay fully immersed in your own strange world. Live long and prosper. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to December 7, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a state that stays cozy and remember the day that will live in infamy. There are plenty of things you can see during a typical Chicago winter. Ice skating at Maggie Daley Park…People walking on Lake Michigan…Train tracks being set on fire. Seriously. Chicago winters can get very cold. Cold enough to affect the operation of the city’s L Train. Sub-freezing temperatures cause the metal rails to contract, which pulls them apart at their connection. Chicago Transit Authority workers light the tracks ablaze to monitor the flames. This may sound crazy, but this simple act keeps the train system running throughout the winter months. On National Illinois Day, celebrate by visiting the Prairie State which has plenty to offer even when the weather outside is frightful. On this day in 1941 more than 3,500 Americans lost their lives or were wounded when the Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service attacked the Naval Station Pearl Harbor near Honolulu, Hawaii. The ambush was designed to destroy our U.S. Pacific Fleet. Up until this time the United States had remained neutral but on November 8th President Roosevelt announced the beginning of our military involvement in World War II. Today, the USS Arizona lies beneath the surface of gentle waves. As a tribute to their lost comrades more than 44 survivors of the attack have chosen to have their ashes laid to rest on this sacred site. On National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day we display our nation’s flag at half mast until sunset and remember the day that will live in infamy. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to December 6, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate shortwave miracles and the spirit of old St. Nick. In 1945, Percy Spencer, a self taught engineer from Howland, Maine was working on an active radar set when he noticed something strange. A chocolate bar in his pocket had started to melt. The idea for dielectric cooking with a shortwave transmitter had already been demonstrated by Westinghouse at the 1933 Chicago World’s Fair, but Spencer picked a winner when he tried his hand at cooking popcorn with this method. Raytheon filed a United States patent for Spencer’s microwave cooking process and by 1947 the first commercially available microwave oven was built. The British used this technology to reanimate cryogenically frozen hamsters, but on National Microwave Oven Day, we recommend celebrating with something delicious like popcorn. Saint Nicholas, the real life inspiration for Santa Claus, was born around 280 AD in what is known today as Turkey. His parents died when Nicholas was very young, leaving him with a large inheritance, but out of tragedy his generous spirit was born. Nicholas used the money to help those less fortunate than himself. As an adult, he became a bishop and was known for his generosity and kindness, especially toward children and the poor, and even after he passed away, his legend grew. Children who left their shoes out by the fire would awake to find money or candy inside and this inspired the tradition of leaving out stockings for Santa. On St. Nicholas Day, start the fun early by surprising your family with a gift in their shoes. Just make sure it’s not something sharp or uncomfortable! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to December 5, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate hidden warriors and the rebel spirit. Anna: Whenever we see a ninja… Marlo: Um…you don’t actually see ninjas unless they want to be seen. That’s kinda the point. Anna: Okay. Well, when we envision what a ninja looks like, it’s typically a person dressed all in black, carrying a sword and throwing stars. But that’s not true. While they did carry those weapons, ninjas did not wear black. It turns out that the most effective color for a ninja to wear is actually navy blue. Because at night, black clothing will stand out more than blue. If you don’t believe us, just check with the Ninja Museum in Igaryu, Japan. Now have one more trip to add to your bucket list, Marlo. On International Ninja Day, celebrate the history of these silent warriors and hope that we don’t end up on their bad side. Because if we do, we’ll never see them coming. The controversial 18th Amendment banning the production, transport and sale of alcohol sparked a revolution of speakeasy style. In the early 1800s, groups such as the Prohibition Party and the Anti Saloon League believed that drinking was the root of all evil. They pushed to eradicate it altogether and by 1919 the 18th Amendment was ratified. But this didn’t ban folks from drinking, and enforcing the law became expensive during the Roaring Twenties. The terms gangster and moonshine reached their peak. Though the experiment had good intentions, National Repeal Day has been celebrated since December 5th, 1933 when the 21st Amendment was ratified and Prohibition officially ended. Even Al Capone celebrated from his prison cell. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to December 4, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate rolling out the fun in cookie dough and games of chance. Cookies first appeared in Persia in the 7th century and made their way to Europe through Spain in the 14th century. They later traveled to the United States with Dutch settlers. In the Netherlands they were called koekies or little cakes. Apparently, cookies made good travel companions and a sturdy kind were called jumbles in the early days. Also known as biscuits throughout Europe, the treat became popular in the street markets all the way to the high courts. Today we celebrate National Cookie Day thanks to a Sesame Street Monster, who sums up their deliciousness with a universal phrase, "num, num, num, num, num." At least I think that's universal. Dice have been around for thousands of years. A game of backgammon, discovered at an archeological site in Iran, is thought to be 5000 years old! But it was Sir William of Tyre who invented a dice game called “Hazard,” in the 12th Century AD. He named it after a castle he’d seen while serving in the Middle East during the Crusades. The game became extremely popular in 17th Century France. Because it required nothing other than dice, Hazard could be played just about anywhere—in taverns, on tables and even on the street. People would crouch down near the ground to play, so the French started calling it crapaud which means toad. This name was later shortened to the game we know today as craps. On National Dice Day roll out some fun of your own, with or without the gambling. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to December 3, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate tie trivia and rolling out the holiday spirit. Croatian soldiers who served in the French army during the reign of Louis XIV wore scarves called Cravats. The name is derived from the French word for “Croatian” and soon came to refer to any kind of a neckerchief worn by a man. After the Battle of Steenkerque in 1692, this sort of neckwear was called a steinkirk. As men’s clothing evolved in the 19th and 20th centuries, this fashion accessory became known as the necktie. The term cravat is still used. It refers to a scarf worn with a dress suit, which is folded in front with the ends tucked inside the coat. And if that snazzy tie you bought for Dad’s gift doesn’t wow him, you can always dazzle him with your tie trivia during National Tie Month. Nothing puts the joy in your holiday season like baking homemade cookies. This is the week to roll out some dough and press it with your favorite cookie cutters. Even the ancient Egyptians liked forming sweet cakes in various shapes and folks in Greece, Rome and Western Europe followed suit. By the 1500s Germans made carved wooden cookie molds and gingerbread men, women and houses popped out by the dozens. American tinsmiths of the 1700s made the cookie cutters we still love today. People trimmed their trees with the elaborate creations but when we started adding vanilla and baking soda in the 1930s, cookies became irresistible. During National Cookie Cutter Week, roll out your own favorite tradition and watch the holiday cheer appear! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to December 2, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate loveable mixes and deep fried comfort. In the world of dogs, some come with pedigrees and champion bloodlines that win dog shows time and again, and others are...well, mutts. Unlike their purebred cousins, mutts are what Bob Ross would call “happy little accidents.” I have to give a shout out today to my adorable Cheezer. She was a mix of Chihuahua and miniature Schnauzer and if you’ve ever met a pure bred of either of those breeds you might be tempted to give them a wide berth on the dog path. But Blanca was the best of all worlds with her crazy dreadlock hair and a sweet personality. And that’s the very best thing about mutts; their personalities. On National Mutt Day, celebrate the uniquely weird dogs that make the most loveable pets. Today we celebrate all things fried with National Fritters Day. Fritters are synonymous with comfort and come in three types: the basic dough kind, the battered meats and vegetables and the small cakes made from chopped food such as corn. Frying food in oil has been around for thousands of years and almost every culture has a tasty version.. The technique of batter frying, however, was introduced by the Spanish and Portuguese in the late 16th century. This culinary inspiration spread to Japan, where it became known as tempura. Today just about anything can be frittered from beignets to squash blossoms. And of course there’s always good ole’ apple. On National Fritters Day, celebrate your favorite comfort food, no matter what language you speak. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to December 1, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a civil rights gamechanger and giving to our furry friends. While some states honor the birthday of this civil right hero, others celebrate the day of her arrest. On December 1, 1955, after a long day of work, Rosa Parks boarded a bus in Montgomery, Alabama. She sat in the “colored section” but as the bus began to fill, the driver demanded that she give up her seat for other passengers. Rosa refused. She was arrested and was later found guilty of violating a city ordinance. What followed made civil rights history. Martin Luther King, Jr. and others had organized the Montgomery Bus Boycott for the day of Rosa’s trial. The boycott succeeded and lasted several months, devastating the transportation system in Montgomery. On Rosa Parks Day we honor the courage and heart of a woman that dared to change a nation. While you may not have room to adopt a pet this season, you can still be a part of a holiday tradition that brings comfort and joy to millions of shelter animals through Operation Santa Paws. This month we celebrate the spirit of giving to our four legged friends to make their stay a little bit brighter until they find their forever home. The cause encourages you to donate blankets, food, toys and money that will make animals feel secure and cared for, which is an important part of keeping them adoptable. And if you’re ready for a new family member, they can help you find that perfect pet. Look for Operation Santa Paws at your local shelters between now and December 24th to bring the holiday spirit to our furry friends. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 30, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate amazing flights and the spirit of giving. Mississippi is best known as the birthplace of Elvis Presley and The Blues. But it’s also known as the setting for one of the world’s greatest feats of aviation. In 1935, two brothers from Meridian, Mississippi—Al and Fred Key—took off in a single-engine plane from the local airport. They wanted to see how long they could stay in the air before having to land. Their aircraft, called the Ole Miss, circled the area and refueled from another plane via a special nozzle they had invented. When it was all said and done, the brothers had been flying for just over 27 days and had traveled 52,320 miles--which at the time was a world record. It’s National Mississippi Day, and we celebrate The Flying Keys and all of the fine folks in the Magnolia State. If you’re already stressed out from a weekend of holiday shopping, today is the perfect time to hit pause. On the first Tuesday after Thanksgiving, folks celebrate Giving Tuesday also known as the National Day of Giving. It doesn’t take a lot to lift someone’s spirits. Take the story of Matthew Flores. Matthew was a 12 year old boy who just wanted something to read. He could not even afford a bus pass to the library, let alone books of his own. Matthew asked his mail carrier, Ron Lynch, for any extra junk mail he could read and the postal worker put the story on FaceBook. 3,500 books later Matthew has his own personal library, which he now shares with those in need. On Giving Tuesday, celebrate your own good fortune by sharing it with those around you. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 29, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate convenient ways to stay connected and shopping with ease. When Neil Papworth sent the first ever text to his boss in 1992, he had no idea the impact it would have. The text was pretty simple—it said Merry Christmas—but this message changed the world. Texting has become a part of everyday life. In fact, it’s the most popular form of electronic communication in the world. Last year, 2 trillion texts were sent—and that’s only counting the United States. This form of communication makes it easy to keep in touch with friends and family, no matter where they live. And as we enter the holiday season, thank goodness for that. On Electronic Greetings Day, celebrate by reaching out to those you love. Shopping from the convenience of your living room has never been easier as we celebrate the phenomenon known as Cyber Monday. What began as a marketing gimmick in 2005 was actually a clever trend prediction by Ellen Davis and Scott Silverman of The National Retail Federation. They noticed the spike in online sales after Black Friday and figured that folks were using the faster internet at work to round out their holiday shopping. A simple press release launched the phrase and the Monday after Thanksgiving became the biggest online shopping day of the year. In 2019 that translated into more than 9 billion dollars in sales. It’s also a win-win for shoppers who enjoy the ease of purchasing from their mobile devices. On Cyber Monday keep calm and shop on. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 28, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the Festival of Lights and reclaiming lost bread. This evening kicks off Chanukah, the Jewish festival of lights. During the time of Alexander the Great, Jewish culture began to blend with Greek culture in a mostly peaceful relationship. That is until Antiochus IV desecrated the Jewish Holy Temple. When the Israelites rededicated the Second Temple in Jerusalem, there was only enough oil to keep the lamps lit for one night, but instead, the oil lasted for 8. Chanukah celebrates this miracle with 8 nights of observance. In the evening, families light the menorah, adding one candle each night until all 9 candles are glowing on the last day. They exchange gifts, and share foods that commemorate this event. On the first day of Chanukah, we share in the spirit of miracles and embrace the ones we love. Today we celebrate a favorite breakfast food that goes by many names. Best known as French toast, it's actually not French at all. The first known recipe dates all the way back to the 5th century AD. That’s when the Romans whipped up eggs and milk, dipped in bread and fried it in oil or butter. And the recipe has remained more or less the same ever since. It was later called “poor knights” in Germany and “eggy bread” in England. And in France the name is “pain perdu” which means lost bread. What a perfect description for the magical transformation of stale bread into a golden toasted perfection. Try it with cinnamon and whipped cream, fruit or syrup and lots of melted butter. On National French Toast Day, celebrate this breakfast favorite with any name you please! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 27, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate protein on the go and supporting the small guys. The preservation of meat by smoking or drying has been around for a very long time. Evidence of meat jerky is even found in the tombs of ancient Egypt. And this makes sense when you realize that refrigeration has only been around a relatively short while. But today we celebrate the artisanal flair of the folks who produce craft jerky with everything from elk to buffalo and even soybeans and mushrooms. Your taste buds may only be geared for the traditional beef kind originally produced by the South American tribes of the Andes. On National Craft Jerky Day prepare your palate for something savory and something more adventurous if you dare. Small Business Saturday reminds us of the prime shopping opportunities right in our own backyards. These places offer lots of gift-giving possibilities with hands-on service and quality, thoughtful gifts. Small businesses feed our communities. They keep our main streets thriving and employ nearly half of the American workforce. You’ll feel good knowing that your holiday shopping puts food on the tables of the folks you know. And plenty of the people on your list prefer handmade items anyway! Don’t hesitate to browse a small business website as well as the traditional brick and mortar kind. You may be surprised to discover just what you’ve been looking for. On Small Business Saturday, celebrate the moms and pops who put the fun and goodwill back into the season of giving. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 26, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate expensive cakes and being in the black Yesterday on Thanksgiving, pie got its time in the spotlight. But most people prefer cake. Like the man from the United Arab Emirates who purchased a custom-made cake for his daughter’s birthday. And it was expensive. Very expensive. The cake cost—you may want to sit down for this one—$75 million. Debbie Wingham, a British designer, created a replica of a fashion show, complete with a runway, models, and audience. The cake was about 2 meters long and took 1,100 hours to complete. Premium ingredients, gemstones, and handmade outfits for the tiny figures drove the price into the stratosphere. On National Cake Day, celebrate with a cheaper version that lets you have your cake and eat it too! Brace yourself for the start of the Christmas shopping season. Here comes Black Friday! Shopping today is hectic, but certainly not awful, so why does it have such a bleak name? Turns out that the phrase Black Friday was first used in 1869, when plummeting gold prices crashed the market. It was also used by traffic police in the 1950s to describe the surge in traffic jams caused by post holiday shoppers. The silver lining explanation goes something like this. Through most of the year, retailers are losing money, which is known as “being in the red.” When Christmas shopping starts, sales go way up, and they’re “in the black.” No matter how you see it, Black Friday is a great day to find amazing deals on gifts for friends and family. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 25, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a perfect dessert and a meal that brings us together. Parfait literally means “perfect” in French. The dessert has a lot to live up to with a name like that. But it does. And then some. Layers of ice cream, fruit, syrups, and whipped cream? It sounds like a fancy version of a sundae, but really…What’s not to like? It’s dessert heaven. To paraphrase Donkey from Shrek: Nobody has ever been asked if they want some parfait and said “Heck no, I don't like parfait.” Parfait's may be the most delicious thing on the whole planet! But seriously, grab yourself a glass and start layering the toppings. It’s just good enough that you may wanna start every day by celebrating National Parfait Day. Sarah Hale is not someone most of us know by name, but she contributed two significant things to American culture. First, she was the author of the classic nursery rhyme Mary Had a Little Lamb. Second, and more importantly, she played a key role in our celebration of Thanksgiving. In 1862, she wrote to President Lincoln, asking him to make Thanksgiving a national holiday. Though he didn't respond for another year, in the midst of the Civil War, Lincoln fulfilled her request. He declared the holiday, asking Americans to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November as a Day of Thanksgiving and Prayer. Today we carry on that tradition in many different ways but Thanksgiving Day is still an opportunity to bring family and friends together in the spirit of gratitude. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 24, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate new found hobbies and rocking around the clock. As a teen, Samuel Langhorne Clemens worked as a river pilot on the Mississippi River. All the while, he was writing. When the American Civil War brought trade to a halt, he went after his passion. You probably know Mr. Clemens better as Mark Twain, which is actually a nautical term that means the water is deep enough to navigate safely. Sounds like an odd pen name, but that sums up his writing style—smart, quirky, and utterly unexpected. With novels like Tom Sawyer and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, Twain established his place as one of the greatest American authors of all time. November is National Novel Writing Month, a great time to put pen to paper and start writing that book you may already have in your head. When Thomas Edison invented the phonograph in the late 1800s, the machines were far too expensive for most people to own. So businesses opened listening parlors, where people could pay a nickel to listen to a song. These machines came to be known as nickelodeons. The cool thing about them was that you could listen with friends as each nickelodeon was equipped with 4 listening horns. Eventually, these machines were able to play multiple records and were designed with amplifiers. The enduring appeal of the jukebox is that music is fun, but when you share it with friends who are home for the holidays it could become your new favorite tradition. On National Jukebox Day, drop a few coins in the machine and dance the night away. There's always tomorrow for cooking the turkey. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 23, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate toxic nuts and intoxicating drinks. When it comes to nuts, cashews are in a class of their own. You’ll find them in any can of mixed nuts, but they’re not exactly like the others. Their unique half moon shape makes them stand out from peanuts, walnuts, and almonds. And unlike pistachios, you’ll never see cashews in a shell. That’s because cashew shells are highly toxic to humans and can cause rashes similar to poison ivy. It makes you wonder what unlucky person first tried to eat one. Cashews are found deep inside a fruit called a cashew apple and once they are removed from this covering, they’re not only edible, they are delicious. On National Cashew Day celebrate this nut that stands out from the rest. The Italian word espresso means ‘quick in time.’ In the coffee houses and cafes of the late 1800s this simply meant a coffee made expressly for the person ordering it with freshly roasted and ground coffee beans. Then in 1901 it all changed. Luigi Bezzera invented the modern espresso machine which brewed a smaller, more concentrated cup even faster than other methods. With it came an intoxicating layer of creamy foam on the top known as crema. For coffee drinkers this is the holy grail of flavor. It’s the secret behind delicious coffee creations from lattes to cappuccinos. It’s also preferred by bakers for the true coffee flavor it adds to cheesecakes, ice cream and tiramisu. On National Espresso Day, espresso your own love for coffee made “quick in time." I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 22, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate spicing things up and a sauce with pucker power. When you think of peppers, you probably think of spicy foods. And while that’s true, there are many varieties of pepper. Like the bell pepper, a mild version. These colorful fruits—yes, peppers are fruits—have more vitamin C than oranges and they’re chock full of vitamin A. Also, red, green, and yellow peppers…they’re all the same thing. Their colors indicate different levels of ripeness. But of course, there are spicy peppers too, like the habanero or the Carolina Reaper. If for some reason you bite into one of these fiery peppers, don’t reach for a glass of water. That’ll only make things worse. Grab a glass of milk or some ice cream to cool the heat. November is National Pepper Month, a time to test your tolerance for kicking up the heat! While cranberry relish is a staple on the Thanksgiving table, we can be fairly certain it wasn’t part of the first Thanksgiving meal. The cranberry relish we know and love originated in the early 1900s. Marcus Urann, a New England lawyer, bought a cranberry bog in 1912 and later formed the company Ocean Spray. He found that fresh cranberries had a short shelf life and the window for harvesting and selling them was relatively small. The canning process delivered a solution to extend their marketability and 100 years later we still enjoy this sweet tart flavor. While plenty of folks like to spice up their own recipe from fresh cranberries, the jiggly kind that comes in a can is a perennial favorite. On National Cranberry Relish Day, sauce it up anyway you please. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 21, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the one that almost got away and being a good neighbor. Cookies are delicious, but they’re usually pretty standard when it comes to shape. Most are round. Some are square. But there’s only one that almost exclusively comes in human form—the gingerbread man. So how did this cute little cookie come to be? Surprisingly, we have Queen Elizabeth I to thank for this sweet creation. When she had a royal banquet, she instructed her baker to decorate the gingerbread to look like the world leaders and dignitaries in attendance. This was so popular that the idea made its way to the masses and—voila—a tradition was born. Now that’s food for thought! On National Gingerbread Cookie Day, run, run, as fast as you can and catch one of these tasty little guys. Get ready for Canadian Olympic pride with National Red Mitten Day! Hudson’s Bay Company founded this day in 2017 to encourage support for Canadian athletes by wearing their red mittens. To date this iconic trend has raised tens of millions of dollars for the Canadian Olympic Foundation thanks to the generous donation from each mitten sale by the Hudson’s Bay Company. The fundraiser began in 2010 when Canada hosted the Winter Olympics in Vancouver. That year Canada received a record number of medals and a new symbol for Canadian Olympic pride was born. Why invest in our competitor’s athletes you ask? Because cheering on our neighbors with cheery, red mittens is just good sportsmanship. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 20, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate kids and the games for kids at heart. While not everyone becomes a parent, most of us have some effect on the children around us and today we focus on some important things to remember about early childhood development. From the time they are born babies spend 60 percent of their energy on brain development. In fact the human brain grows so quickly that if the rest of a newborn's body grew at that rate it would weigh 170 pounds after only one month. And while most parents understand their role as their child's first teacher, it's also important to see the bigger picture. Because all caregivers affect the development of a child it's important to remember that it takes a village. On National Child’s Day we honor our children and celebrate those who make a difference to them every day. As we gather together with our families next week, we can be sure of a few things, we will eat too much and someone will stir up a family ruckus. It’s time to plan ahead, not only for Thanksgiving dinner, but also for what to do before and after the feast is served. Games bring people together, which is exactly what this holiday is about. Yes, there may be some arguments, but it’s better to scrap over who owns Park Place than so many other things. Puzzles can keep the brain occupied, even through a carb induced fog. If you have something for everyone on hand your dinner is bound to go smoothly. Even with a house full of kids at heart. Next week is National Games and Puzzles Week, an easy and fun way to keep things light, while dinner does the heavy lifting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 19, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate catching a bubbly buzz and some friendly competition. Here in North America more than 90 percent of us enjoy caffeine every single day. But not all of us enjoy tea or coffee. The rest of us can thank a German Chemist who first isolated caffeine from coffee beans in 1819. Man-made carbonation was first discovered by Joseph Priestly in an English brewery and folks began using it for medicinal tonics that later became known as sodas. Today this method of infusing water with carbon dioxide is more popular than ever thanks to the addition of caffeine. On National Carbonated Beverage With Caffeine Day, we celebrate the satisfying combination that most of us could not do without. Have you ever wondered why the playing pieces for Monopoly are so random? You can thank a bunch of kids for that. The classic board game Monopoly was invented in the 1930s by Charles Darrow and based on the properties and street names of Atlantic City, New Jersey. When it came to the playing pieces, he asked his nieces for help. And they picked through metal charms from a bracelet to create the bizarre collection that includes an iron, a race car, a thimble, and a top hat. Little did they know how many people would fight over the race car over the years. On National Play Monopoly Day, you may enjoy an overly competitive game, just don’t forget the spirit of fun for which it was invented! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 18, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we remember a celebrity host and a mighty mouse. Just over a year ago we lost one of our most beloved game show hosts: Alex Trebek. While he is best known for his 30 plus years hosting Jeopardy, this was not his first show. Canadian born Trebek began his American career with a show called the Wizard of Odds. Sadly, the odds were not in his favor when he began his battle with stage 4 pancreatic cancer. Anyone facing the 8 percent survival rate knows, this disease is about time. That time is often measured in months and while the odds haven’t changed in more than 40 years, today there is a reason to celebrate. The folks at PancOne are dedicated to research that gives patients more time through something called personalized medicine. Marlo: What is an organoid? John: Yeah, what is an organoid? Anna: Visit PancOne.org to find out more and do your part by donating to this groundbreaking research. On World Pancreatic Cancer Day we come together to find a cure. It’s about time! Marlo: I miss Alex Trebek, I’ve already donated. Anna: Me too. I miss Ruth Bader Ginsberg. John: What’s that website again? Anna: PancOne.org. We give a shout out today to the world’s most popular cartoon character: Mickey Mouse. Here are a few facts about Walt Disney’s loveable rodent, that you might not have heard. His original name was Mortimer, but Disney’s wife made him change it. His first appearance was in the 1928 silent cartoon, Steamboat Willie. Mickey didn’t speak until the following year’s animated feature The Carnival Kid, in which he worked as a food vendor. His first words were “Hot dog! Hot dog!” He was the first animated character to get a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1978. Today we celebrate the birthday of this little mouse who’s made a big impact. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Not many foods can be both light and rich at the same time, but baklava holds that distinction. For those of you who’ve never tried baklava, you’re missing out—It’s sheets of phyllo dough layered with honey, sugar, cinnamon, and pistachios. Oh, and butter. Lots of butter. This heavenly dessert got its start way back in the Assyrian Empire around 8th Century BC, when it was made with unleavened bread instead of phyllo. The version we know was invented during the Ottoman Empire and made its way to Greece, the country it’s most associated with. It’s easy to see why this traditional sweet has become such a popular dish around the world. On National Baklava Day, give this old favorite a whirl. Who doesn’t love the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked bread? Today we celebrate the tradition of making it at home. This day was established in the 1980s by the The Homemade Bread Committee from Ann Arbor, Michigan. The celebration is all about family and friends slowing down, exchanging recipes, and enjoying the process of baking bread together. Perhaps you’ve already learned how satisfying this tradition can be, and if not, it's time to find an expert and learn those well kept secrets that have been around since the dawn of time. One thing is for sure: National Homemade Bread Day will bring joy to any home willing to break bread together. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 16, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the Hoosier State and food served lickity split. Indiana is famous for many things: basketball, the Indy 500, and being the birthplace of the Jackson 5. But its lesser known claim to fame is an enormous supply of limestone. In fact Indiana is known as the limestone capital of the world. The Empire State Building was constructed using stone from Indiana. So was the Pentagon. And the United States Treasury. And Rockefeller Center. In fact, more than a dozen state capitol buildings wouldn’t exist without limestone mined by the good people of Indiana. It’s National Indiana Day and today we celebrate the Hoosier State and its hand in helping to literally lay the foundation for America. Fast food has its origins in the State of Kansas. In 1921, E.W. Ingram opened a restaurant that you might have heard of...White Castle. They served the same small, square burgers as they do today. And the burgers were shaped that way so that more would fit on the grill. When White Castle opened, burgers were thought of as a food only slightly about table scraps for dogs. In order to dispel that notion, Ingram set up the kitchen so that people could see their food being prepared. His “take out” food diner began selling burgers by the sack, which is now a hallmark of fast food restaurants. On National Fast Food Day, indulge in some of your guilty pleasures, and enjoy the convenience of this “fast meal.” I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 15, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate traditional cakes and a legacy of generosity. The inventor H. David Dalquist was the first to cast the aluminum pan known as the bundt. In 1950 he created the pan in his Minnesota based Nordic Ware company for a local women’s group who wanted to bake a traditional kugelhopf or ring-shaped cake. Naming the pan for the German word for bond, Dalquist added the ‘t’ to the end of “bund” and patented the pan in a stroke of foresight genius. At first the pan did not sell well, and Nordic Ware considered discontinuing it. Then in 1966 the pan was used to create the “Tunnel of Fudge” cake in a Pillsbury bake off that inspired bakers everywhere! Over 200,000 orders for the pan streamed in and over 60 million have been sold to date. On National Bundt Day celebrate the bond of baking with your own family! Giving back to the community is important and no one did that quite like Andrew Carnegie. As a child, he and his family emigrated to the United States from Scotland and he got a job as a bobbin boy at a cotton mill. Decades later, he became a railroad and steel tycoon who had amassed one of the largest fortunes of all time. Adjusting for inflation, he was worth over $350 billion. Wanting to leave the world a better place, Andrew set up pensions for his employees, gave donations that built universities, museums, and nearly 3,000 public libraries. On National Philanthropy Day, we celebrate the successful men and women who make a difference by helping others. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 14, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate all things sour and a day in your PJs. One of the oldest methods of preserving food is pickling. This process involves placing vegetables or fruits in a sealed container with brine or vinegar. The fermentation that takes place changes the flavor and texture of the food, creating pickles, though technically only pickled cucumbers are referred to as “pickles.” Everything else has the word “pickled” before its name. So why do only cucumbers get this honor? Well, for starters, it’s one of the best parts of going to a deli. No corned beef or pastrami sandwich would be complete without one. On National Pickle Day, get your pucker on anyway you please. Nothing makes us feel cozier than spending the day in our pajamas. That's why we love holidays that invite the whole family to enjoy this feeling together. But why wait for the hustle and bustle of the season when any day of the week will do. At least that's the rationale behind National Family PJ Day. A day spent in our jammies means we prioritize things like board games, brunch and extra time curled up together watching movies or reading books. This day is all the better because there are no expectations or traditions beyond hanging out together and keeping it casual. And if you're into matching jammies you might as well snap a few holiday photos so you can check that off your list. Hey, you just started a trend and you're barely out of bed! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 13, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate changing the world with empathy and compassion. The World Kindness Movement began in 1997 in Tokyo, Japan and today includes over 28 countries around the globe. Projects include photo contests that capture moments of goodwill and generosity along with those that mirror the sustainable development goals outlined by the United Nations. But you don’t have to be a formal member to inspire those around you. There are far reaching consequences to simple acts of kindness that you can initiate in your everyday life. In this season of giving you can donate far more than material gifts. On World Kindness Day celebrate making a difference where you stand with acts of courage, positivity and compassion. Every year, children fill mail boxes with hundreds of thousands of letters addressed to Santa. Since Santa is pretty busy getting things ready for Christmas Eve, the United States Postal Service created a way to send responses to these kids: Operation Santa. While most letters ask for gifts, some ask for help for the kids or their families. Operation Santa passes these letters along to charities and organizations that send gifts in Santa's place. During Dear Santa Letter Week, spend time helping your kids write their own wish lists. And if you're able to help your local charities, rest assured that the folks at Operation Santa will be helping to make a child's wishes come true. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 12, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the kitchen sink of pizzas and a good old American throw down. Sharks, halibut, yellowtail. They’re not like us. But not for the obvious reason. These creatures actually like anchovies. In fact, anchovies are an important part of the diet for most fish. But putting them on a pizza…well, that’s a different thing altogether. Anchovies are not eaten fresh. Rather, they’re salted in brine and then eaten. By some people anyway. According to surveys, anchovies are the least popular pizza topping—even more disliked than broccoli or pineapple. It’s National Pizza With the Works Except Anchovies Day, so when you order pizza, chances are good that the pizzeria won’t even have the option of adding these salty little fish. And thank goodness. How do you guys weigh in on anchovies? The French Dip sandwich is not actually French but its origins represent a good old American throw down. Two Los Angeles restaurants take the credit for inventing the sandwich, Coles and Philippe's. Both feature thinly sliced beef on crusty French bread that is slathered with spicy mustard and dipped in au jus sauce. And that's where the stories become different. Coles claims that its French Dip appeared in 1908, when a sympathetic chef gave his customer with sore gums a side of meat juice to soften the bread of his sandwich. The much more palatable story comes from Philippe's, where the sandwich was accidentally dropped in a pan with meat drippings. The lucky customer raved of its intense flavor, and a new favorite was born. On National French Dip Day, celebrate with your own mouth watering version of this American classic. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 11, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate ice cream bliss and our enduring love for Veterans. From the late 1800s on, states passed what were known as Blue Laws. They were intended to prohibit the sale of alcohol on Sunday. But the laws also prevented the sale of soda, which could be used as a mixer. That meant that drug stores couldn’t sell ice cream sodas. In order to keep sales up, a pharmacy in Illinois created the ice cream sundae. The origin of the name for the frozen dessert seems pretty straight forward—it was served on Sunday, so it should be called a sundae. But there’s also a story that someone with the last name Sontagg, which is German for “Sunday” invented it. Whatever the origin, let’s all thank our lucky stars that someone did it and enjoy some ice cream today on National Sundae Day. Veterans Day always falls on November 11th to coincide with the ending of World War I. It was originally known as Armistice Day for the treaty that was signed on the 11th day of the 11th month in the 11th hour. It has also been approved to be a day dedicated to the cause of world peace. While Memorial Day commemorates all those who lost their lives in service to their country and Armed Forces Day honors those in active duty, Veterans Day encompasses all United States military veterans. It does not change according to where it falls on the day of the week. Veterans Day is a reminder of our admiration for those willing to pay the ultimate price in protection of our freedoms. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 10, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a sacred fruit and a tradition of loyalty. Pomegranates have been a favorite of fruit lovers for a very long time. A big favorite. In Ancient Egypt, there are wall paintings depicting the fruit and King Tut was even buried with some so that he could enjoy pomegranates in the afterworld. This delicious fruit was a part of both Greek and Roman mythology and is even mentioned in the Torah. Buddhism considers the pomegranate a sacred fruit. It appears in the paintings of Botticelli and Raphael. So what’s all the fuss about? If you’re asking, then you’ve never had a taste. November is National Pomegranate Month, so get your hands on one of these heavenly fruits and enjoy! After a few defeats at the hands of British forces, George Washington had requested troops that could fight on both land and sea. On November 10, 1775, the Second Continental Congress passed a resolution to create two Battalions of Marines to serve with the Continental Army and these men changed the course of the Revolutionary War. Their first major test came when they landed on hostile shores in the Bahamas and captured New Providence Island. As a result, Captain Samuel Nicholas became the first commissioned officer in the Continental Marines and is celebrated as the Marine’s first commandant. On the Marine Corps Birthday we celebrate those who are always loyal to each other, their country and their traditions. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 9, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate spooky adventures in the swamp and in the kitchen. If you visit Louisiana and you’re the adventurous type, you may want to take a trip to Manchac Swamp. Located about 30 minutes from New Orleans, the swamp is a beautiful but sometimes frightening area. And we aren’t talking about the gators. It’s rumored to be haunted by the ghost of Marie Brown. Brown once lived in a nearby town and was a voodoo priestess. But no one paid much attention to her and she felt ignored. Rumor has it that she sat on her porch singing “One day I’m going to die and take the whole town with me.” Then a hurricane hit in 1915, and she disappeared…along with much of the town. It’s National Louisiana Day and there’s plenty to explore in the Pelican State other than New Orleans. Which is still awesome, by the way. If you’re not from Philadelphia, you’ve likely never heard of Scrapple. This regional favorite was brought to Philly by German immigrants where it was popular with rural communities. Farmers butchered their hogs, and used most of the meat for sausages or bacon, but all of the remaining parts were made into scrapple. The traditional version was made only with meat, but American immigrants combined it with cornmeal or buckwheat, and formed it into a loaf. The loaf is sliced and fried, and typically served as a breakfast side dish. Today the recipe may also include beef, chicken or turkey. You might see it topped with applesauce, ketchup, maple syrup or horseradish, though not all at the same time. On National Scrapple Day, celebrate by trying something different. Go on, I dare you! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 8, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the technology that inspires us every day. What we know as the cappuccino was first served in Vienna coffee houses in the early 1800s. The coffee, when mixed with cream and sugar, took on a shade of brown that reminded the baristas of a monk’s robes. Specifically, the shade of brown worn by the Capuchin monks. Hence, the name cappuccino. FYI, the word cappuccino means hood in Italian, and the order of monks got the name because of their hooded robes. It wasn’t until post-World War II, that cappuccinos became popular worldwide. And that was due to espresso machines becoming more readily available. On National Cappuccino Day, celebrate this morning ritual that makes things much more tolerable. Boy that’s true. I feel more like a capuchin monkey than a monk before I get my coffee! Science and technology are critical to our future. Plus they are just plain cool! That’s why STEM and STEAM education have become increasingly popular. For those of you who aren’t familiar with the terms, STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. The A was added to incorporate Art for a more well rounded curriculum. Young children are curious by nature, so introducing them to science and technology early in life can make a huge difference in their development. Even if your child doesn’t focus on a career in any of these fields, STEM and STEAM education can set them on a path towards success. On National STEM/STEAM Day, take time to inspire the little ones in your life, because they are the ones who will shape our future. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 7, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate sleeping in and coziness in the kitchen. During World War I, President Woodrow Wilson enacted Daylight Saving Time as a way to conserve energy. After the war, Congress repealed the Act due to its unpopularity. And that would have been the end of Daylight Saving Time, but New York City and Chicago kept using the system. So did the areas surrounding those cities. But other areas chose their own times, which made a real mess of things—at one point, Iowa had 23 different time zones! So in 1966, Congress passed the Uniform Time Act and everyone was forced to be on the same page. Today is the Daylight Saving Time Ends. Turn back your clocks an hour and enjoy the extra hour of sleep. If cooking the Thanksgiving meal is already stressing you out, one thing should ease your mind, roasting the turkey is the easiest part. And if you’re still not convinced, we are giving you all month to practice. November is National Roasting Month. This low and slow cooking method brings out flavor in both meats and vegetables. Since it all goes together in one pan, you can quickly prepare a delicious meal and let the oven do all the work. Start with meat or veggies and add simple herbs and spices. Some salt and a layer of tinfoil and your meal will be fork tender in only a few hours. The best part of roasting is the way the tantalizing meal calls your family to the table all by itself. During National Roasting Month, celebrate this easy way to add coziness to your menu! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 6, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate smooth solos and our national beast. The song “Baker Street” by Gerry Rafferty is instantly recognizable and it’s all thanks to the epic saxophone solo. This classic is a pretty good rock song, but could easily have been forgotten if not for that sax riff. Rafael Ravenscroft, who played the solo, was paid only about $36 for his work. He came up with the music on the spot and afterwards hated his performance, which he thought was off-key. Clearly no one else agreed. But don’t feel too bad for Mr. Ravenscroft. He went on to perform with Pink Floyd, ABBA, and even Daft Punk. It’s National Saxophone Day, when we celebrate the birthday of Adolfe Sax, the inventor of the instrument that gave so many pop songs smooth, memorable vibes. The majestic bison can weigh in at nearly 2000 pounds making it the largest land mammal in North America. According to Native American legend, there was a great famine long ago and the chief of the Lakota tribe sent out scouts to hunt for food. They encountered the White Bison Calf Woman, who taught them religious rituals and told them that when she returned, harmony would be restored to the world. As she left, herds of bison surrounded the camps and the animal became an important part of tribal culture. Though the bison was nearly extinct by the late 1800s, today it can be found in all 50 states. In 2016, it was declared America’s National Mammal and on National Bison Day we celebrate this essential part of our Nation's history. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 5, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a bonus donut day and standing out in a crowd. In America alone, more than 10 billion donuts are produced each year. That is roughly 30 donuts for each person in the country. But as common as this delicious bakery item may be, the last name Donut is just as rare. Really. There are really people with that last name. At last count, there were only about 10 in the United States. But it has nothing to do with the food. The name has been around since the 11th Century and some Donuts were even members of royalty. No word on how they became a favorite of the commoner, but if you think about it, who doesn’t love a donut? On National Donut Day, celebrate the perfect excuse to buy a dozen for breakfast…or lunch…or a snack. Sharing is optional. The genetic trait that causes red hair is found in only two percent of the population, so those of us with natural red have no trouble standing out. If you have both red hair and blue eyes then you are in a 1 percent category and chances are you are also left handed. And while redheads have a reputation for being feisty and stubborn we are also natural born leaders. This may have more to do with getting picked on or singled out in life and learning quickly to defend ourselves. Which seems to have worked well for Carrot Top, Carol Burnett, Ron Howard and Lucille Ball. On National Love Your Red Hair Day celebrate this unique trait and the bonus of standing out in a crowd. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 4, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a prehistoric fruit and the sweet invention born of necessity. Figs are an interesting fruit. They’ve been around a long time. Like a really long time—about 100 million years ago. Fig trees were on Earth at the same time as dinosaurs. Humans began cultivating them in the Middle East as the first civilizations grew across the region. When they made their way to Greece, figs became a staple of diets. This is also true for Italy, Spain, and Northern Africa. Figs trees were planted across California by the missionary Father Junipero Serra. And today the state produces 100% of the figs consumed in the United States. And if you’re not sure how to enjoy this Mesozoic fruit, there’s always the Fig Newton. During National Fig Week, take a fresh look at the fruit that outlived dinosaurs. They say that necessity is the mother of invention and in the case of M&Ms candy, this phrase is certainly true. This candy was created in 1941, and during World War II M&Ms were exclusively sold to the military. Their small size and candy coating made them the perfect candy for military rations: they were easy to transport and the candy coating prevented the chocolate from melting. When soldiers returned home, they were hooked and wanted more, so the Mars Company made them available to the general public. Soon other companies made a knockoff version and Mars had to mark its candy coated chocolates with the trademark M that we still see today. On National Candy Day, treat yourself to something to make your day a little sweeter. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 3, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate star-struck sandwiches and a trick for beating stress. If you’re famous, it’s a rare honor for a restaurant to name a sandwich after you. Especially if the sandwich is good. For example: the Leonardo DiCaprio sandwich from Lioni’s in New York is roast beef, sun dried tomatoes, fried eggplants and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. The Adam Sandler sandwich from The Stage Deli is salmon, lettuce, sturgeon, onion and tomato. And of course, the Elvis Presley is made from peanut butter, banana and bacon after his favorite combination. Be a star in your own kitchen on National Sandwich Day and celebrate with your favorite fixings. We have all heard of the dangers of giving in to stress, but perhaps the biggest danger of all is not being aware of these stressors in the first place. The first Wednesday of November is National Stress Awareness Day, and if you haven’t checked in with yourself in a while, it’s time. The good news is that there are lots of ways to change things for the better, beginning with developing an attitude of gratitude. Don’t wait for Thanksgiving to count your blessings. When life goes off course, this simple habit can change how you tackle even the toughest of circumstances. As Aesop said, “Gratitude turns what we have into enough.” During National Gratitude Month, celebrate the silver linings and watch as the things you are grateful for begin to multiply. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 2, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate outrageous tax laws and a spicy history. During the late 1800s, Peter the Great imposed a beard tax on his citizens. That’s right! Men were charged an annual fee if they chose to grow out their whiskers. This meant that peasants were charged every time they entered cities. Those who paid the tax were allowed to keep their chin hair, but most men shaved to avoid the tax. As a result, extravagant mustaches became all the rage and were often paired with excessive sideburns. If you notice the men in your life sporting mustaches this month, it’s because November is Movember, a time to raise awareness for men’s health. Today the only money changing hands today is for charity, not taxes. While a lot of foods fall in and out of favor, it appears that deviled eggs have a long history of success. Even the Ancient Romans liked boiled eggs with spicy sauce as the opening act of their meal. And while 13th century Spaniards began smashing the yolks as a filling, the term “deviling” didn’t appear until the 18th century. This is when a little heat became associated with the devil. Call it reverse psychology, or great marketing but somehow a little paprika became a walk on the dark side. Today, no potluck or gathering would be complete without deviled eggs. New twists on this classic h'ordeuvre can be made by adding wasabi or southwestern spices. On National Deviled Egg Day, celebrate your spicy side any way you please. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to November 1, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate trade secrets and the stories they inspire. Agatha Christie is the queen of the Whodunit. Of the nearly 80 murder mysteries she wrote, about half of them involve death by poisoning. Christie had an extensive knowledge of drugs and poisons because of her time spent working in a hospital pharmacy during World War I. She watched carefully as pharmacists and nurses administered medicine to patients, and she learned what dosages were safe, along with what could kill someone. Luckily for the world, Agatha used her knowledge for good and wrote some of the most successful novels of all time. In fact, she’s only been outsold by the Bible and Shakespeare’s works. On National Author’s Day, celebrate from favorite storytellers by cracking open a good page turner. Cinnamon warms everything from Fall drinks to French toast. But long ago the spice was a rare commodity that cost nearly 50 months wages for a mere pound. The Egyptians used cinnamon to embalm their mummies, and burned it like incense in their tombs. The origins of cinnamon were kept a secret due to a spice trade monopoly. Europeans were told that the bark came from the banks of the Nile river, and had to be collected in fishing nets. But perhaps the strangest of all stories claimed that giant cinnamon birds harvested the bark to line their nests, built on high cliffs. Today it’s no secret that most cinnamon comes from Indonesia. On National Cinnamon Day, enjoy something delicious and be glad it didn’t come from a giant bird’s nest. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 31, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate magical history and all things spooky. During the Golden Age of Magic, there was only one magician more famous than Harry Houdini. Adelaide Herrmann. Her husband had a very popular magic show and when he died in 1896, she kept it going. Adelaide became wildly successful in her own right, performing for the next 25 years. Her signature trick was the bullet catch, in which someone would fire a gun at her and she would appear to catch it with her hands…or teeth. One time she even faced down a firing squad and caught all the slugs coming her way—or so the illusion would have everyone believe. On National Magic Day, celebrate the sleights-of-hand that still keep us guessing. Halloween dates back thousands of years to ancient Ireland, when folks celebrated the end of the Summer harvest. They believed that on this night, the gates between the worlds of the living and the dead would open. In order to scare off any fairies or evil spirits, people dressed in costumes. Centuries later, the custom of “souling” began. This involved going door to door in costume, singing hymns and reciting prayers on behalf of the dead. In return, they were given soul-cakes, something like a fruit muffin. And just where did the idea for jack o’ lanterns come from? Well, it turns out that those costumed singers carried around hollowed out turnips with candles inside to represent the souls of the dead. Get your masks on, boys and ghouls, it’s Halloween, the spookiest day of the year. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 30, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate spooky endings and sweet beginnings. If you hear a knock at your door this time of year, you can expect to see kids in costumes asking for candy. It is, after all, a Halloween tradition. But people living in Sweden or Finland don’t get visits from Trick or Treaters in October. Instead, this celebration takes place during the week leading up to Easter. Children dress up as witches and go door to door asking for sweets. Why? Well, this tradition comes from an idea very similar to Halloween. If there are monsters and ghosts lurking around, the best thing to do is blend in. Some people really know how to stretch out the season of costume wearing. And when it’s this much fun, why not celebrate the last Saturday of October with National Trick or Treat Day? Not everyone is a fan of candy corn, which was invented in the 1800s and originally called Chicken Corn. At the time, most Americans were farmers and candy shaped like vegetables were all the rage. What made candy corn stand out were its bright Fall colors. During World War II, sugar had to be rationed, so the makers of candy corn cut back production and limited sales to the Fall. Trick or treating became popular around the same time, so candy corn became synonymous with Halloween. These days you can find all kinds of varieties including a full candy corn Thanksgiving dinner. Yes, there is turkey flavored candy corn. If you’re a fan then indulge your sweet tooth on National Candy Corn Day. And if not celebrate the fact that it's only around a short while. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 29, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a freaky Friday and a good start to the day In 1815, a massive volcanic eruption in Indonesia spread ash around the entire globe. The following year was dubbed The Year Without a Summer. The skies were dreary and dark, and temperatures were far below normal. In the midst of this, a legendary novel was born. Lord Byron invited Mary Shelley and her fiance to his home in Switzerland, where the friends huddled around a fireplace and read from a book of scary stories. In this eerie setting, Byron came up with the idea that each guest should write their own ghost story to share with the group at the end of their stay. And that is how Mary’s Frankenstein was born. On National Frankenstein Friday host your own eerie happy hour or read the original classic, if you dare! Samuel Johnson, creator of the first proper English dictionary, was no fan of oatmeal. In his definition, he called it “A grain, which in England is generally given to horses, but in Scotland supports the people.” His friend James Boswell, a Scotsman, replied “Aye, and that’s why England has such fine horses, and Scotland such fine people.” If you’re one of these fine people, you know how good oatmeal can be. It may not be the most exciting breakfast food, but it is perfect for chilly mornings. Add some fruit, honey, or syrup, and you’ve got a tasty and healthy start to your day. On National Oatmeal Day, celebrate with a bowl of the good stuff, or even a batch of oatmeal cookies. And if you’ve got a horse, feel free to share the love. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 28, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a tempting fruit and a chocolate lover’s dream. For fans of apples, this is the best time of the year. Once Autumn comes around, it’s apple picking season. On average, each American will consume about 16 pounds of apples every year, so it’s good that the trees produce as much of the delicious fruit as they do—about 840 pounds every season. That means plenty of Red Delicious, McIntosh, and Fujis for everyone. There are dozens of varieties. Actually, there are nearly 2,500 types of apples but only about 100 of them are sold commercially. October is National Apple Month, a time to celebrate this tempting fruit and all the goodies made from it. Chocolate lovers probably celebrate this day, every day. And a few fans are even setting world records. Turns out that sculptors use the confection as a medium for sweet, artistic wonders, creating everything from giant pandas to statues and cathedrals. But according to the Guinness Book of World Records the largest chocolate sculpture is the Casa do Chocolate. This realistic house was made by a team in Brazil in 2018. The design includes a stove, kitchen utensils, furniture and a typewriter all made from more than 23,000 pounds of chocolate. I’m still trying to figure out how you keep your fingers clean while using a chocolate typewriter? On National Chocolate Day, celebrate the sweet dreams that fuel our imagination. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 27, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate chilly beverages and breaking a bad wrap. America’s love affair with beer started even before the United States was a country. In 1612, Dutch traders Adrian Block and Hans Christiansen established a brewery on what would become Manhattan Island. At the time, the area was called New Amsterdam and was a fur trading outpost. The winter that year was especially cold and icy, which made the workers very grumpy. To boost morale amongst their men, Block and his partner started brewing beer, which worked like a charm. While beer is consumed all over the world here in the States we love it icy cold and if the weather is already frosty where you live, chances are you still enjoy a cold one. On National American Beer Day celebrate the season of chill by cracking open your favorite brew. It appears that the myth surrounding black cats as bad luck is relatively new. This bad wrap is associated with the Puritanical view of witches and their supernatural pets. Starting in the 12th century, folks believed that a witch could transform into a black cat nine times. This is probably where their reputation for having multiple lives began too. But well before that, the ebony coated feline was a sign of good luck. From Ancient Egypt to Old England, Scotland and Japan, black cats were thought of as a symbol of good fortune. They were even given as a wedding present for hundreds of years. On National Black Cat Day, break with superstition and find yourself some good feline fortune. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 26, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the Southern hospitality of our feathered friends and the workhorse of the Old West. If you find yourself in Memphis, Tennessee, it’s likely because you are there to visit Graceland. But once you’re done exploring Elvis Presley’s mansion, head downtown to the Peabody Hotel. Here you’ll find one of the most unique traditions in the country. Each day, there’s a duck parade at the Peabody. The hotel literally rolls out the red carpet and leads a procession of ducks through the lobby. As the web-footed celebrities pass by onlookers, they get into the elevator and go to their “Duck Palace” on the roof. It’s National Tennessee Day, when we celebrate the Volunteer State and all its citizens. Feathered and otherwise. One of the great unsung heroes of the Old West wasn’t even a person. It was the mule. These animals are a hybrid of a female horse and a male donkey, and they inherited the best traits from each of their parents. Mules are athletic and intelligent. They also have greater range of vision and are more sure footed than either the horse or donkey. Plus they are more even tempered. All of these traits added up to one perfect animal for helping settlers expand across America. Mules could carry heavy loads, walk longer distances, and navigate rugged terrain and they were the perfect pack animal and companion for cowboys. On National Mule Day, tip your hat to the animal that helped tame the West, and did so without any complaints. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 25, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate creepy dolls and greasy spoons. For those of you who aren’t Chucky fans, you have a pass. All others, get your popcorn and beverage of choice and hit play! I’m talking of course about Chucky, the Notorious Killer Doll movies. Some who celebrate, dress up as Chucky and collect his merchandise, while others read up on the behind the scene facts on the many Chucky fan pages. The creepy horror flick staple of the 1980s has a full name - Charles Lee Ray, which is a mash up of three real life and notorious killers. Can you guess who they are? On Chucky, The Notorious Killer Doll Day, test your movie trivia knowledge or stay sane like the rest of us and watch a good comedy. The name may not sound very nice, but there’s something great about a greasy spoon. I don’t mean a utensil you need to wash, I’m talking about a good old fashioned diner. Since the 1920s, diners have been an American favorite, and there’s no better place to get a quick meal, especially a late-night one. And what’s the best thing on the menu? It’s a matter of taste, but whatever it is, it’s probably fried. Yes, we try to avoid fried foods most of the time, but every so often, it’s great to live a little and gobble down a plate of fries, onion rings, or fried chicken. Even the healthiest person has a soft spot for some greasy food now and again. On National Greasy Food Day, celebrate this excuse for sidling up to the counter at your favorite local diner. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 24, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate magical mother-in-laws and the first name in lunch meat. Okay, we’re getting close to Halloween and if you think celebrating National Mother-In-Law Day is more than a little scary, here's something to lighten your spirits. The most magical, fictional mother-in-law award goes to … Agnes Moorhead as Endora on Bewitched. Not only did she possess witchy powers, she knew just how to wilt her son in law, Darren by simply refusing to call him by his real name. Durwood, Darwin, Dum Dum, What’s his name… Rumor has it that she hung out with Atilla the Hun, so this mother-in-law could be brutal. If you can relate then celebrate this day with caution. Best to avoid being turned into a toad. On the other hand if you have a gem of a Mother-In-Law you’ll probably want to thank your lucky stars. Some foods leave behind the identity of the city or place they came from to take on a new role here in America. Bologna is one of these food immigrants. Beginning its life as mortadella, the beloved sausage meat came from the city of Bologna in Italy. Here, the papacy protected the recipe in 1661, to ensure it would be made with the right amount of lean pork, speckled with lumps of lard. In the United States bologna took off as a cheaper food during the Great Depression, with the war era war practice of rationing. But perhaps its greatest break came from a jingle in the 1970s. On National Bologna Day we celebrate the success of this immigrant whose first name has remained unchanged for almost 400 years. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 23, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a confusing dessert and a talk show legend. You may be confused when you order Boston Cream Pie and end up with a piece of cake. Hardly anyone is disappointed, however, by the buttery layers of sponge cake, paired with pastry cream and a shiny coat of chocolate. At the time the dessert was created, cakes and pies were baked in the same pans. Thus, their names became interchangeable. This cake was the invention of a French pastry chef at the Parker House Hotel in Boston in the late 1800s. What landed it on the map was the accessibility of a new ingredient: baking chocolate. Just about anything topped with melted chocolate was bound to be a hit! It became the official dessert of Massachusetts in 1996. On National Boston Cream Pie Day, celebrate the sweet dilemma of the dessert with an identity crisis. Today there are many choices for watching TV late into the night. But for decades, the only show on air after the late news was The Tonight Show. It was so popular that a standup comedian’s appearance on the show could make or break their career. If host Johnny Carson asked a comedian to sit on the couch to talk… Well, that was being anointed for greatness. Some of the comics who were chosen include Jerry Seinfeld, Ellen Degeneres, and Eddie Murphy. So it’s safe to say that Mr. Carson knew what he was doing. On National TV Talk Show Host Day we celebrate an entertainer and a comedy kingmaker. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 22, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate rewarding our true blue friends and a dash of color. There are lots of days that celebrate our furry friends but this one celebrates the most loyal. For the dogs who have stood by our side through thick and thin today is all about them. It doesn't take much to please our pups: an extra long walk or a special treat would do. What you may not realize is that what dogs crave most is quality time with you. Pet stores stock everything you need to pamper your pooch at just about every price point. And if you haven’t had a dog in a while, there are nearly 3.3 million shelter dogs seeking a forever home. This could be the day that you make a dog's biggest dream come true. On National Make a Dog’s Day go the extra mile for the pets that have been by your side come rain or shine. The human eye can see nearly 7,000,000 different shades of color. It’s one of the first things we notice when we process visual information. As humans we have a primal response to different colors. For example, purple is rare in nature, so when we see it, the color registers as something special. That’s why we use it for royalty and elegant things. Green reminds us of nature and peaceful, soothing things. Red is the color of courage, love and strength. My favorite color is yellow, which most people associate with happiness and celebration. On National Color Day, don’t be afraid to show your true colors. You may just change the world around you. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 21, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate our scaly neighbors and an early Thanksgiving treat. The Mary River Turtle of Queensland, Australia definitely stands out in a crowd. First of all, it has feelers growing out of its chin. It’s also known as the Punk Rock Turtle. That’s because of the bright green moss that grows on the turtle’s head in the shape of a mohawk. Seriously. It makes them look like Muppets. And then there’s the fact that the Mary River Turtle breathes out of its…well, you can Google that for yourself. In fact, there are over 10,000 species of reptiles to learn about, including lizards, snakes and turtles. On National Reptile Awareness Day, celebrate our scaly neighbors by discovering their weird and wacky facts online or at the zoo. If you’re already on pumpkin spice overload you may want to save yourself for the ultimate flavor combination of the season: pumpkin cheesecake. This dessert takes the cake and can even upset all the traditional Thanksgiving standbys. What a perfect day to master your own recipe ahead of the holiday rush. By November you’ll be a cheesecake expert. Even if the pumpkin spice madness has already peaked, folks will be drawn like moths to a flame to your heavenly creation! The smooth combination of rich cream cheese and spiced pumpkin, topped with whipped cream, beats other pies hands down. On National Pumpkin Cheesecake Day, celebrate the creamy dessert that has us asking, Why wait to be grateful? I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 20, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate delicious mashups and building up our youth. One of the South’s most famous food creations is chicken and waffles. But this delicious combination of flavors was actually born in the Harlem neighborhood of New York City. During the 1940s, the Wells Supper Club was a popular late-night spot and attracted Jazz musicians after their gigs. They’d come in hungry, but found that they’d arrived too late for dinner, but too early for breakfast. In order to accommodate the musicians, the restaurant came up with the genius idea of serving a bit of both meals. Hence, fried chicken for dinner and waffles for breakfast. On National Chicken and Waffles Day, we celebrate this delicious combo and thank the cook who came up with the crazy idea in the first place. Stevland Morris was born prematurely on May 13, 1950, and went blind shortly after. Despite his disability, he had a passion for music. By the age of 10, Stevland had taught himself how to play piano, harmonica, drums and organ. He played during church services and his talent so impressed a fellow parishioner that the man introduced Stevland to a friend named Berry Gordy—the president of Motown records. Gordy took the boy under his wing and helped turn him into the star we know today as… Stevie Wonder. Not every kid will grow up to be famous, but they’ve got a better chance at success if you inspire them to be themselves. On National Youth Confidence Day, celebrate the kid in all of us that just needs a little encouragement. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 19, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a state with a big impact and smooth medicine. Kentucky is known for many things—horses, bluegrass, and bourbon whiskey. It also has a unique city named Middlesboro, which makes a claim no other city in the United States can. It’s built in a meteorite crater. About 300 million years ago, a meteor crashed to Earth in this area and left a hole 3 miles across. In 1868, the town of Middlesboro was established. It grew up around the iron and coal mines nearby. But no one had any idea about the extraterrestrial land formation until geologists recognized it in 1962. On National Kentucky Day, celebrate the state, whose impact is out of this world. The British Empire spanned the globe in the mid 1800s and one of its most valuable colonies was India. Though England was able to conquer much of the world with its powerful army and navy, one thing its military couldn’t fight was malaria. This disease had long been eradicated in Europe, but in India’s tropical climate, malaria was still a problem. The locals used quinine powder to prevent the disease, but the British troops stationed here did not have a taste for the bitter medicine. That is until someone mixed it with soda water and sugar creating what is now known as “tonic water.” When they added gin the famous cocktail was born. On International Gin And Tonic Day, enjoy a classic drink that is as smooth as British ingenuity. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 18, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate getting a kick out of fashion and great moments in beard history. Although it’s a year-round staple, when the temperature drops down in the Fall it’s officially legging season. Once a necessity that provided an added layer of warmth, leggings are now part of an iconic style that’s both comfortable and fashionable. Leggings truly set a trend in the 1950’s and ‘60 as a standard workout and wardrobe essential. Over time, breathable materials, textures and designs ushered in the undeniable era of leggings. Modern leggings are a feat of engineering designed to enhance your workout and your dressy side. On International Legging Day, kick up your style with this fashion essential. At one time Alexander the Great controlled the largest Empire in the world. Legend has it that he also started a custom that lives on to this day. Men shaving their faces. In 331 BC, Alexander lost a key battle against the Persian army. He witnessed the soldiers grabbing his men by their beards, to hold them in place, while stabbing them with a spear. Before they fought the Persian army again, Alexander ordered his troops to shave their beards. They won the next battle and Alexander went on to become one of the most powerful rulers in history. You may find yourself grumbling as you’re shaving for work today, but on National No Beard Day, celebrate the fact that nicking yourself with a razor isn’t as bad as getting poked with a spear. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 17, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate second chances and noodling around. A mulligan is a do over or a chance to hit the reset button. In golf it’s a term that means taking a second shot if things don’t go according to plan. No one is exactly sure which Mulligan gave us this term whether it was David Mulligan from Canada, John “Buddy” Mulligan from New Jersey or Thomas Mulligan from Ireland. All three were passionate about the game of golf and all three knew the value of blowing off a bad shot. It’s never too late to reframe your thinking with a fresh perspective or a brand new start, on or off the golf course. On National Mulligan Day, give yourself a break and tee up a whole new outlook. Italians had been enjoying their pasta for centuries before someone came up with the idea for a dried version of the food. This simple innovation allowed the pasta to keep longer and it soon made its way around the world on Italian ships. In the 1500s, explorers brought back tomatoes from the Americas, and you would think that’s where the pairing of red sauce and pasta got its start. But people thought tomatoes were poisonous, and it was nearly 200 years before someone incorporated them into Italian cuisine. Since then, pasta and tomato sauce have been forever linked. On National Pasta Day celebrate with a plate of spaghetti and meatballs. Or ravioli. Or baked ziti. There are so many kinds of pasta and sauce, you just can’t lose. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 16, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate sweet rewards and healthy competition. National Sweetest Day encourages everyone to be generous even in the smallest ways. From its inception as Candy Day in 1916, this day reminds us that even small tokens improve the lives of those around us. And if you’re so inclined you can spread this sweetness around during the rest of the month, as it’s also National Dessert Month and National Caramel Month. Everyone can use an extra dose of sweetness right about now, whether it’s a drizzle of caramel or a small card or phone call. On National Sweetest Day, take care of all those who need extra attention. Organized sports were introduced to the world at the first Olympic Games in Ancient Greece. The first events were based on training for war and hunting—races, wrestling, jumping, and javelin throwing. And that’s a good thing. Because it became a way for people to prove who was better and hash out differences without hurting one another with weapons. Sports are cathartic and bring people together. You can see it at most amateur and professional sporting events: Athletes scream and yell and try to beat their opponents, but when the game is over, they congratulate one another. They laugh. They shake hands and hug. Because in the end we’re all human and that’s what counts. On National Sports Day, celebrate the spirit of friendly competition! I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 15, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate love at first sight and bringing back that squeaky feeling. If your life ever feels like an episode of Job Switching, where Lucy has to beat the conveyor belt of candy by hiding them in her mouth, chances are you’ve already fallen in love with Lucy. This iconic tv show first aired on October 15, 1951 and for audiences it was love at first sight. That’s because the show featuring Lucille Ball, Desi Arnaz, Vivian Vance, and William Frawley was a program of firsts, including the first show to be performed before a live studio audience. In four of its six seasons, I Love Lucy was the most-watched television show in the United States and to this day it still stands on TIME Magazine’s list of top 100 shows. On National I Love Lucy Day, catch up on your favorite episodes and fall in love all over again. In the mid 1800s settlers from all over Europe brought their cheese making secrets to Wisconsin. By 1922 there were more than 2,800 factories in the rich farmland of this state. Today Wisconsin produces over 2 billion pounds of cheese each year. This process starts with separating the curd from the whey, but the curds that eventually become cheddar are the gold standard for snacking. These ones contain the long proteins that squeak against our teeth. If your curds have lost that squeaky feeling, a few seconds in the microwave can bring it back. On National Cheese Curd Day fry up a batch of the freshest you can find and enjoy a true American favorite. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 14, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate rich desserts and crafty critters. According to the Guiness Book of World Records, the most expensive dessert in the world is the Frrrozen Haute Chocolate ice cream sundae from the restaurant Serendipity 3. This frozen dessert is made with a blend of the priceless cocoas and 23 karat gold flakes. It’s served in a goblet lined with edible gold. But wait, there’s more! If you order this confection, you get to keep the goblet, the diamond tennis bracelet wrapped around its base and the gold spoon. And all for the low, low price of $25,000! In case you were wondering, the previous record for most expensive dessert was a mere $1,000. Kinda looks like a bargain, now. On National Dessert Day go ahead and pull out all the stops. In 1979, one of America’s smallest and weirdest celebrities made her debut, Twiggy the Waterskiing Squirrel. Chuck and Lou Ann Best rescued a baby squirrel that had fallen out of its nest and the little animal soon became part of the family. As a joke, Chuck built her a pair of Styrofoam skis and attached them to his daughter’s remote controlled boat. But Twiggy surprised everyone by taking to this sport so quickly. Word got out and soon Twiggy was making appearances on news shows around the country. For nearly 40 years, this tiny performer and her offspring have entertained audiences across the country. During Squirrel Awareness Month, celebrate these crafty little critters by giving them the right of way on the road and on the water. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 13, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate digging up history and our Nation’s fighting spirit. In 1676, a giant leg bone was unearthed in England. Scientists didn’t know what it was, or where it came from, but they examined it and decided that it had come from—a giant. They were partially right. While they were envisioning a human-like, fairytale giant, it was actually from a giant lizard that would later come to be known as a dinosaur. Specifically, a Megalosaurus. But no one realized that until nearly 150 years later, when scientist Richard Owen pieced it all together. Today we use fossils to better understand the history of our planet and the evolution of life on it. On National Fossil Day, dig up some cool facts on these links to the past that teach us from the dust. On this day in 1775, the Second Continental Congress formally established what would become the United States Navy. The most famous American Captain from this era was John Paul Jones. In 1779, he engaged the British 44 gun Royal Navy frigate, Serapis. With his ship burning and sinking, Jones refused to surrender and he uttered the now famous words, “I have not yet begun to fight.” And it turns out he was right! Three hours after making this declaration, the British ship surrendered to him and Jones took command. On our Navy’s Birthday, we celebrate the men and women who carry on the fighting spirit of Captain Jones. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 12, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a Southern melting pot and those who work the land. When we think of gumbo, the hearty stew of seasoned vegetables and seafood or meat, we immediately think of Southern cooking. For this we can thank it’s older West African roots that blended with Native American and European traditions to create a culinary classic. Traditional recipes call for okra, a vegetable that thickens things nicely, but you may have also heard of gumbo filé. This Choctaw spice made from dried sassafras root, also thickens the stew and was most likely used when okra was out of season. And if all else fails you can tighten things up with a good old fashioned roux. Or leave the cooking to an expert! On National Gumbo Day, celebrate this “melting stew” that warms us during chilly seasons. Farmer’s Day has been celebrated since the mid 1800s and it’s easy to see why. These folks contribute to much more than just the food on our table. From early on, people who worked the land set the bar for hard work and their products have affected many industries from manufacturing to transportation. For proof, you can look at a whole host of products from leather goods to textiles and even the ethanol in our gas tanks. These days it’s more important than ever to support your local farmers. Even city slickers can do their part by purchasing from markets and visiting restaurants that take pride in their farm to table menus. On National Farmer’s Day, celebrate the way of life that sustains us all. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 11, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate kicking butt and an uncommon hero. If you’re running low on motivation these days, you’re not alone. Most of us think that successful people have some extra luck, but the truth is, they’re just people who pushed past the failure. Milton Hershey worked in a candy factory, but when he tried to make it on his own he failed – three times, before returning to the family farm. That didn’t stop him from perfecting the recipe for milk chocolate. Ben Franklin dropped out of elementary school. Stephen King’s first novel was rejected 30 times. And no one took Michael Jordan’s dream seriously as a kid because he was short! If you’re feeling like a failure these days, you’re in some very good company! On National Kick Butt Day, get past the excuses and go kick some butt! Many brave Americans fought in the Revolutionary War, but the colonists did not fight alone. Other European nations, who were not fond of the British, were willing to lend a helping hand. One of the most prominent was Polish General Casimir Pulaski. After being exiled from his homeland, where he fought against the Russian army, Pulaski made his way to Paris. Here Benjamin Franklin recruited him for the war against Great Britain. He became one of General Washington’s most valuable field commanders and went on to win key battles for the Continental Army. Pulaski saved hundreds of troops before he was fatally wounded in Savannah, Georgia. On General Pulaski Memorial Day, we celebrate the hero who stepped up for a country that wasn’t even his own. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 10, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a walk in the park and the food of angels. How close is your closest park? You may not be aware of it, but on October 10, 2017 the Trust for Public Land launched the 10-Minute Walk Campaign. This movement calls on mayors across the country to ensure that people who live in cities have access to a quality park within a 10 minute walk of their home. Today nearly 300 mayors have taken on the challenge. On National Walk To A Park Day, we challenge you to get outside and find out how they’re doing in your neck of the woods. Bonus points if you discover Fall leaves, changing skies and a reason to wear your favorite sweater. It’s probably no accident that it’s also World Mental Health Day. The origin of angel food cake carries an air of mystery. The recipe came from India, but was given to an American family in 1883 by a friend. The family owned a boarding house along the Hudson River and the owner was a skilled baker who took her friend’s recipe to a whole new height. It is said that she baked one cake at a time behind closed doors to protect the secret recipe. The lighter than air results were a great success, and angel food cake became a favorite of First Lady, Lucy Webb Hayes. Today, this cake can be found almost anywhere. On National Angel Food Cake Day, celebrate the lighter than air concoction that doesn’t require a wing and a prayer. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 9, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a soft spot for wool and a warm spot in the Cold War. In 1974, the sci-fi classic Doctor Who cast a new actor in the lead role. Costume designer James Acheson was given the task of creating a unique look for the Doctor. He thought the costume should have a scarf and he asked his friend Begonia Pope to knit one. Acheson dropped off several balls of yarn and went on his way. Begonia began knitting, and because she wasn’t sure how long the scarf should be, she didn’t stop until every last inch of yarn had been used. The result was a ridiculously long scarf that was about 18 feet long. This colorful accessory became the trademark look for Tom Baker’s incarnation of Doctor Who. On I Love Yarn Day, express your own textile taste and don’t be afraid to go over the top! During the Cold War, the Soviet Union seemed invincible at the game of chess. For decades, every single World Championship was won by a Soviet player. When an American named Bobby Fischer made it to the championships in 1972, the whole world was watching to see what would happen. Fischer lost the first two matches to the reigning champ Boris Spassky and it looked as if the Soviet streak would continue. Then Fischer staged one of the greatest comebacks in the history of competitive chess. His performance was so impressive that the crowd broke out into applause after his win. Even Spassky gave Fischer a standing ovation. On National Chess Day, celebrate the ultimate game of strategy that can still bring the world together. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 8, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a long standing game and a fluffy bite of history.
In 1990, a group of friends, who called themselves the Tag Brothers started a game of tag. And it’s still going 30 years later. They’ve kept it up with a lot of work, creativity, and a little bit of craziness. In high school, they’d run up and tag someone. But as adults, they’ve upped the ante. One guy broke into a friend’s house to tag him. Another time, one of the Tag Brothers flew cross-country and hid in the trunk of his friend’s car for hours—before popping out and tagging him. And the craziest “tag” was at a funeral for someone’s father. On American Touch Tag Day celebrate the simple game that can really go the distance.
The story of the Fluffernutter sandwich began with the great, great, great grandchildren of Paul Revere: Armory and Emma Curtis. In the early 1900s, Armory cooked up a sticky spread that he called Snowflake Marshmallow Creme. Other companies made similar products, but Emma added a flash of marketing genius. She created a recipe for a peanut butter and marshmallow creme sandwich that was published in the newspaper. During World War I, while meat was being rationed, the sandwich was used as a source of protein. That’s when it became known as the Liberty Sandwich. On National Fluffernutter Day, celebrate with a bite of history that is more than just a little fluff.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 7, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a happy accident and the big impact of short waves.
Many of us can’t get going in the morning without a cup of joe. Luckily for coffee drinkers, Dimitris Vakondios was no exception. Dimitris was a Nestle employee in Greece who really needed a caffeine fix one morning. Unfortunately, there was no hot water in the office on that fateful day. But Dimitris would not be deterred. He mixed instant coffee with cold water and ice, then shook it up and created a new twist on an old favorite. Today this chilled coffee drink called the Frappe is familiar to anyone who loves their java cold, although many people mix things up with a variety of flavors. On National Frappe Day, chill out with your favorite version of this happy accident.
On this day in 2014, the Nobel Prize in Physics was awarded to the inventors of blue light emitting diodes. Apparently, the shorter wavelength of the color blue was the trickiest one to reproduce. With it came the invention of the white LED light. Today we take for granted the brightness of this bulb, which appeals to our eyes and saves energy. Though you may not be aware of the difference, your senses are naturally drawn to the color consistency and comforting high quality of the LED light. Beyond their ability to attract us like a moth to a flame, the longer lasting bulbs are a clear winner. On National LED Light Day, celebrate the big impact of small waves.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 6, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate reaching new heights and going a little batty.
No matter how transcendent their skills, every athlete needs someone to help them achieve greater success. This is where a great coach can make all the difference. Michael Jordan was already one of the NBA’s most dynamic players before Phil Jackson became coach of the Chicago Bulls. Jordan was not initially a fan of his new coach, who wanted the team to spread the ball around—rather than make Jordan the focus of the game plan. But Jordan played along. And Jackson’s leadership took the team to six championships over the span of eight seasons, including 2 three-peats. On National Coaches Day, celebrate the people who help us elevate our game to a whole new level.
In the middle of Alice’s trip through Wonderland, she stopped for a tea party that was hosted by the Hatter. Yes, that’s right, the character’s name isn’t the Mad Hatter, though that’s how we all know him. The phrase “mad as a hatter” was popular at the time that Lewis Carrol wrote his book, and since the character was a bit crazy, the name stuck. As for the phrase itself, hat makers in the 1800s used mercury to manufacture felt hats. Prolonged exposure to this chemical led to mercury poisoning, which caused irritability, memory loss and slurred speech. Sounds like the fictional host of the tea party in Wonderland! On National Mad Hatter Day, celebrate with a spot of tea and your silliest hat.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 5, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate getting funky and paying things forward.
As a child growing up in Georgia, James Brown was so poor that his clothes were little more than rags. Sometimes he was sent home from school for being too dirty. So when he became a professional musician, this shaped his image. He dressed in extravagant outfits—becoming known for wearing capes, jumpsuits covered in rhinestones, and copious amounts of jewelry. This caught everyone’s attention, but it was his talent that earned him the name “The Hardest Working Man in Show Business.” Brown was a major player in the history of Funk music, setting the standard for musicians like Earth, Wind, and Fire, Parliament Funkadelic, and even Prince. It’s National Get Funky Day and while you don’t need to be the Godfather of Soul, you can play some music and get your groove on.
Aaron Collins was only 30 years old when he came up with his last wish. In life, he loved to give waiters and waitresses a big tip, and when he passed away just a few weeks after his 30th birthday, his brother Seth carried out Aaron’s last request. Sarah Ward was serving pizza to the Collins family at Puccini’s Restaurant in Lexington, KY when Seth handed her a $500 tip wrapped with Aaron’s name. Sarah immediately offered to share it with the entire staff. Even better, she pledged to tell Aaron’s story for the rest of her life. Since then more than $30,000 has been donated to continue the cause, now known as "Aaron's Last Wish.” Wait staff in all 50 states have received $500 tips. On National Do Something Nice Day celebrate the ripple effect with your own act of kindness.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 4, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a smooth drink and an explosive food.
During the golden age of Hollywood, vodka was popularized by celebrities, who drank cocktails at their swanky parties. However, America’s infatuation with the Russian alcohol came under fire during the early years of the Cold War. In the 1950s, when countries like the US and England were staunchly anti-Russia, vodka sales dropped. Vodka makers like Smirnoff scrambled to save their public image. And they got some help from an unlikely source—super spy James Bond. When 007 made vodka martinis his signature cocktail, the public began to view the liquor in a different light. No longer was it simply Russian. It was now worldly and sophisticated. On National Vodka Day, celebrate the essence of smooth.
One of America’s most popular foods got its start in the silver mines of Mexico. Here in the 1700s, miners would roll gunpowder in pieces of paper and insert them into the rocks, as an alternative to dynamite. They called the small charges “tacos.” When these same workers brought their lunches of meat and cheese rolled in tortillas, they referred to them by the same name as the explosive charges. The taco came to the United States with the Mexican immigrants, who worked in mines or on railroads. But their popularity exploded when Robert L. Gomez established the National Taco Council in 1964. On National Taco Day, celebrate with your favorite spicy flavor, which is not nearly as explosive as it was in the beginning.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 3, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate making an entrance and embracing our inner geek.
Joseph Merlin was a famous inventor who had a flair for the dramatic. When unveiling one of his new inventions, he preferred to do so in front of an audience. When he came up with the idea for roller skates, Merlin decided to make a splash, and so he debuted his new skates at a high-society party. He rolled in dressed in full costume, playing a violin. As the hundreds of party-goers watched in amazement, Merlin zipped around the ballroom, showing off the roller skates. Unfortunately, this early design did not have brakes and he spun out of control and smashed into a mirror, breaking the violin and injuring himself. During National Roller Skating Month, play it safe at a roller rink and if you’re trying new tricks, please wear a helmet!
National Techies Day encourages students of all ages to consider a career in technology. You don’t have to be a math or science wizard to take advantage of this trend. People often assume that computers and artificial intelligence are beating people out of jobs. The truth is that more people now work in the software and services industry than they did in coal mining at its peak. We now know that for every high-tech job, four more jobs are created. That's a lot of economic boost driven by one industry. No matter what drives you, it's a good time to invest in learning something new about the ways that technology is affecting your area of expertise. On National Techies Day boost your IQ for tech and don't be afraid to embrace your inner geek.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 2, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate culinary adventures and man’s best mechanical friend.
No matter how crazy or inventive recipes from today’s top chefs seem to be, they’d have a hard time rivaling anything in the Libro de arte coquinaria. This 15th-Century cookbook was compiled by the chef of an Italian cardinal and is housed in the Library of Congress. So what makes this particular book so special? Well, for starters, it is the first known cookbook to list both ingredients and instructions. And it’s also full of wild recipes like “How to Dress a Peacock With All Its Feathers, So That When Cooked, It Appears to Be Alive and Spews Fire From Its Beak.” That’s literally the title of the recipe. Try to top that, Food Network. During National Cookbook Month, take a walk on the wild side and try a new adventure.
If you’ve ever named your car then you are not alone. Movies and TV shows give top billing to everything from Herbie the Love Bug to Kit from Knight Rider and Smokey in Smokey and the Bandit. But perhaps the most loved car in today’s world is Lightning McQueen from the movie Cars. This animated feature film banks on our natural affinity to consider our car as something more human than machine. Maybe it’s been awhile since you played with matchbox cars or thought of your set of wheels as a trusty companion. But chances are good that giving your car a name will inspire you to give it some extra TLC. On National Name Your Car Day celebrate man’s other best friend and keep your engine purring.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to October 1, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate letting our hair down and showing off our spots.
What do Audrey Hepburn, The Beatles, and Jennifer Aniston have in common? Every one of them had a major impact on pop culture. And not just for their performances, but for their hairstyles. Hepburn’s starring role in Breakfast at Tiffany’s popularized the beehive. The Beatles inspired a generation of kids to grow out their hair. And the haircut that Jennifer Aniston wore on Friends—the Rachel—was one of the hottest trends of the 1990s. It makes sense that people want to emulate what they think looks good. After all, our hair is one of the first things that people notice about us. On National Hair Day, you don’t need to be a fashion icon to make a statement. Let your hair down and be grateful for what you’ve got.
Dalmatian dogs have a long history of being known as a fire pup. This goes back to the early 1700s when fire trucks were actually horse drawn carriages. Dalmatians have a natural affinity with horses and were trained to run ahead of the rig to keep the roads clear. Once they arrived, fire pups both calmed the horses and watched over the valuable carriage while firefighters did their job. Dalmatians were excellent companions back at the station, where they bunked with the horses and earned their keep catching mice. This breed is known for their grace under pressure and one other feature that made them easy to “spot.” Today they mostly tag along as mascots for those teaching fire safety. On National Fire Pup Day celebrate the canine wonder that symbolizes the bravery of those who do this difficult job.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 30th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a Fall ritual and an old school way of freshening your breath.
Wassail is an old Norse expression that literally means “be you healthy” Wassailing was an old English drinking ritual of warming cider with spices and other ingredients to ensure a good harvest of cider apples for the following year. Now that’s thinking ahead! In ancient Roman times they mulled wine in the same way. Now that sounds like a good excuse for a drinking game! There are lots of recipes for hot mulled cider that include orange peel, cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves. Now that sounds like a recipe to chase away the cold! On Hot Mulled Cider Day, brew up your own favorite recipe and drink to your health: “Wassail!”
While chewing gum may seem like a modern invention, it’s actually been around for 9,000 years. The ancient Aztecs chewed something called chicle, although they had to follow certain rules of etiquette. Children and unmarried women could chew it in public, but everyone else had to chew it at home. Chicle became the main ingredient in chewing gum in the mid 1800s, but it wasn’t until the early 1900s that gum became popular. That’s when William Wrigley, Jr. launched an all out campaign, mailing free samples of his gum to every person in the phonebook. Apparently, this move paid off big! On National Chewing Gum Day, celebrate the freedom to chew wherever you please, though keeping it quiet is still appreciated.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 29th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate Veterans of Foreign Wars and an iconic buzz.
The VFW was founded in 1914 by veterans of the Spanish American War and soldiers who had served in the Philippines. The group was created to secure benefits and medical treatments for the sick and wounded veterans. At the time, soldiers returning home from duty had no Veterans Administration care or pensions. The VFW also enabled veterans to help each other transition from the battlefield to normal life. The organization’s motto is “No one does more for Veterans,” and it’s easy to see why. No one understands a soldier better than someone who has served in the military. The individual posts also play a big role in their communities through fundraising and community service. On VFW Day find out more about the organization that honors the fallen by helping the living.
When it comes to brand ambassadors, there are few more iconic than Juan Valdez. This fictional coffee farmer has been the face of the Coffee Growers of Colombia for over 6 decades. And for nearly 40 of those years, Carlos Sanchez portrayed the iconic spokesperson. The Colombian actor had actually been a coffee farmer in his youth, so he fit the role perfectly. With his wide brimmed hat and big smile, Juan Valdez became the center of a worldwide ad campaign that made the character nearly as popular as Colombian coffee itself. Sanchez retired from the role in 2006, but Juan Valdez lives on both as a spokesperson and as a chain of coffee shops. On National Coffee Day, celebrate your own favorite brand with a delicious cup of joe.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 28th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the folks on the porch next door and putting ourselves first.
In the early 1970s, National Good Neighbor Day was created by Becky Mattson of Lakeside, Montana. What began as an effort to build goodwill in our communities, became a Presidential Proclamation in 1978. Jimmy Carter said: “As our Nation struggles to build friendship among the peoples of this world, we are mindful that the noblest human concern is concern for others. For most of us, this sense of community is nurtured and expressed in our neighborhoods where we give each other the opportunity to share and feel part of a larger family… On National Good Neighbor Day celebrate the spirit of friendship that has far reaching consequences.
While the month of September is nearly gone, there is still time to celebrate creating an important habit: taking better care of ourselves. This is not about being selfish. It’s a matter of making our own health and wellness a priority. Self care can be as simple as pausing for a breath when we are feeling stressed to taking a more luxurious break when we need one. Gandhi once advised us to “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” Remember that kindness begins with treating yourself kindly. During Self-Care Awareness Month celebrate the impact you make on those around you simply by treating yourself a little better.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 27th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the little things that comfort the body and soul. More after the break from Anna Devere.
Scarves are a wonderful way to brighten up the gloom of fall and winter as they cozy up to our necks and keep us warm. The first scarves depicted in fashion are found in ancient Egypt, where Queen Nefertiti wore a tightly woven scarf beneath her conical headdress. Military ranks were often marked with scarves of varying value from expensive silk to lowly cotton. But our love for scarves as a fashion statement can be traced to the house of Hermes in the 19th century. Making use of the beautiful patterned fabrics from China and India, Hermes designed the first ready-to-wear graphic silk scarf in 1837. When it caught the eye of Queen Victoria and became a part of her iconic look, scarves were quickly embraced in Europe and America as the essence of chic. On National Scarf Day, enjoy the big impact of a small strip of fabric.
While hot chocolate has been around in one form or another for thousands of years, it’s believed that chocolate milk came from 17th century Jamaica. Sir Hans Sloane, an Irish botanist was given a post here, to serve an English Duke. While mixing with the locals, he discovered a drink made of cocoa and water that he described as nauseating. By substituting milk for the water he created a much smoother concoction that he later brought to apothecaries in Europe, where it was used as a medicine. And while chocolate milk may not be considered a health food, on National Chocolate Milk Day we remind you that some foods feed your body, while others feed your soul.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 26th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate tickling the ivories and an ancient breakfast.
Before the piano arrived on the scene, the most popular keyboard instrument was the harpsichord. It made beautiful music, but its volume could not be varied while playing. Composers and musicians wanted an instrument with the ability for more controlled expression. This led Bartolomeo Cristofori to create an instrument that allowed musicians to alter volume and tone with the force of their fingers. He called it the piano. Well, technically he didn’t name it the “piano.” The original name was much longer. We’ll spare you the Italian name, but it translates to “soft and loud keyboard instrument.” September is National Piano Month and thanks to Mr. Cristofori, we can celebrate beautiful music in every genre from Classical to Rock.
Today we celebrate a 30,000 year old breakfast food, the pancake. That’s right, the Stone Age folks were eating pancakes. Scientists even found pancakes in the stomach of Otzi the Iceman, who dates back 5,300 years! You would think after all this time we would be tired of this food, but pancakes are still loved around the world today. Most cultures have some variation, although not all of them are for breakfast. You have probably heard of hot cakes or johnnycakes, which are also called crepes, latkes and blinis. You get the picture. Even Shakespeare wrote about pancakes. On National Pancake Day, celebrate with a short stack or piled mile high. Everyone loves a flapjack!
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 25th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate spooky searches and unsung heroes.
As a child Ed Warren grew up in a haunted house. His future wife, Lorraine realized that she had clairvoyant abilities. When they married, the two became world-renowned paranormal investigators, helping people with hauntings and supernatural phenomena. Among their most famous cases were Annabelle, a possessed doll and the Amityville Horror. They became so well known that Ed was even recognized by the Catholic Church as a demonologist. The Warrens’ story has inspired amateur ghost hunters around the world to seek out haunted houses, and signs of spiritual activity. You may not be a believer but on National Ghost Hunting Day, you can celebrate with your internet search that may just change your mind.
Every comic book fan knows the name, Stan Lee. But you may not be familiar with his partner, Jack Kirby. Together they created Iron Man, Thor, Hulk and the X-Men. Stan was the writer and Jack was the artist. Jack had been working in comics years before the two teamed up, creating his most famous character as World War II broke out. If you’ve ever seen Captain America punching Hitler in the face, Jack drew that. Shortly after he was drafted by the Army and assigned as a scout because he was able to quickly draw reconnaissance maps. After returning to the United States, Jack met Stan Lee and the rest is history. On National Comic Book Day, celebrate the men and women behind the heroes who may just prove that truth is more amazing than fiction.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 24th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate perfect punctuation and dramatic desserts.
Anna: To my parents, Ayn Rand and God!!!! Marlo: Why are you yelling? Anna: I’m just reading the script! Marlo: Maybe you should dial down the exclamation points. Anna: Haha. Hilarious, Marlo. Well, today is National Punctuation Day and that first sentence opens up a big debate about using the Oxford comma. Marlo: Okay, I’m in on that debate. I don’t use the last comma in a series before the word “and.” Anna: Yeah! Neither do I, but defenders of the Oxford comma will site this sentence as an argument that the last comma before “and” is needed; “To my parents, Ayn Rand, and God,” so that the reader knows I am dedicating this to three separate people and not to my parents who happen to be Ayn Rand and God. Marlo: Okay, that’s way too nerdy for me. John: Without question. Anna: Ugh!!!!
Nothing says celebration like the word jubilee. But how did this word get attached to cherries and set on fire for dessert? For that story we look to the renowned chef Auguste Escoffier. In honor of Queen Victoria’s Jubilee event, the chef combined her love of cherries with a simple syrup and warm brandy which he lit on fire for a dramatic finish. It turns out that Escoffier had a knack for making ladies feel special. He designed the dessert Peach Melba for Nellie Melba and a macaroon for Sarah Bernhardt bearing her name. On National Cherries Jubilee Day, celebrate something special with a flaming dessert that has passion written all over it!
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 23rd, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate presidential pooches and great American pie.
When Richard Nixon ran as Eisenhower’s Vice President in 1952 he was accused of receiving money and gifts illegally. He told his critics that if they found that he’d done anything wrong he would return everything except a black and white Cocker Spaniel named Checkers. Even politicians have a soft spot for animals. Many presidents have had pets while in the White House, but there were some truly strange ones. Herbert Hoover had an opossum, Calvin Coolidge a raccoon that he walked on a leash, and Teddy Roosevelt had snakes, dogs, cats, a badger, birds, guinea pigs, and even a pony. On National Checkers Day And Dogs In Politics Day, we celebrate presidential pooches, and remember there aren’t just people living at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.
While pot pies have been around since ancient Rome, today we celebrate our love of this perfect comfort food that we find truly American. Almost every culture has a recipe for savory filling baked between two flakey crusts, but some of these recipes are best left behind. For example, it may seem crazy that anyone would enjoy a dinner that included a live bird bursting out of a pie, but this Roman tradition existed up until the 16th century in England. This is probably the reason why we beat a hasty retreat to the New World. Today we take pride in our rich heritage of hearty stews baked into flaky crust that make many Americans nostalgic. On National Great American Pot Pie Day enjoy this delicious national treasure.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 22nd, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate living history and small heroes with hairy feet.
If you have made it to 100 years old, congratulations! Today we celebrate you on National Centenarian's Day. In the United States alone, there are estimated to be nearly 72,000 centenarians. The youngest of those were born after the end of World War I and the signing of the Treaty of Versailles. They represent a living history full of tales not found in books and their stories animate and compliment what we already know. One of my dearest friends lived to be 104 and her stories about living through WWII still stick with me to this day. On National Centenarian's Day, count yourself lucky if someone you love can share stories that bring history to life from their very own past.
In the early 1930s, J.R.R. Tolkien created the greatest fantasy epic of all time. There were dragons, goblins, and wizards but at the heart of his stories were Hobbits. Bilbo and Frodo Baggins played a big part in saving Middle Earth, but neither was anything special. They were ordinary folk like you and me, who got caught up in something far bigger than themselves. These small creatures are meant to be stand-ins for the regular guy, and to be examples of how people can grow beyond their comfortable lives when they take risks. On Hobbit Day, you may not slay a dragon, but you can step outside your comfort zone to make a difference. And there's still time in the day for “second breakfast.”
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 21st, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate being spicy and the geeks who’ve got our backs.
If you're a fan of chai tea, then you may have been drinking it all year long, but for those who celebrate the change in seasons, chai is the perfect spicy pick me up for cooler weather. The word ‘chai’ means ‘tea’ in Hindi, but the original drink didn’t contain tea at all. In fact the milk and sweetener in today’s recipe were added by the British during their occupation of India. Legend has it that chai was created 5000 years ago for an Indian king for medicinal purposes. Spicy ginger and black pepper stimulate digestion, cloves relieve pain, cardamom elevates your mood and cinnamon supports the lungs and heart. Sounds like a cure all to me! On National Chai Day enjoy this delicious drink with added benefits worth celebrating!
Now more than ever the world is held together by information technology. If IT makes you crazy as a business owner, then rejoice in the fact that IT professionals can tackle the heavy lifting. From desktops to laptops no one untangles your tech issues like an IT professional. And while you may not have hung out in high school, you're going to want a nerd in your corner when your server goes down. End-users can celebrate too, as that quality experience you enjoy is no accident. It's likely the evolution of a whole host of geeks, who work hard to create and maintain our virtual experiences. On National IT Professional Day, celebrate the unsung heroes who keep the digital world safe and humming.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 20th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate playing with your food and glorified leftovers.
In the 1950s, the popularity of pizza in the U.S. skyrocketed and so did the demand for mozzarella cheese. Baker Cheese Company in St. Cloud, Wisconsin shifted from making cheddar to mozzarella in order to cash in on the craze. The gamble paid off big when this family owned business became a major supplier of mozzarella for many pizzerias. The cheese was shipped out in large blocks or loaves, which was perfect for a business, but Baker wanted to try something different: individual servings. What we now know as string cheese was marketed to bars as a quick bite to enjoy while having a drink. But when kids got their hands on it the word was out: string cheese is fun! On National String Cheese Day, celebrate the snack that’s all about playing with your food.
Rice is a staple in many cuisines, but fried rice is one of the world’s most popular dishes for a reason. It's easy to elevate this side dish to a main event by adding chicken, steak or prawns. The recipe calls for leftover rice, and clearly this is a bonus for restaurants, who might have plenty of that on hand. But for home cooks the recipe is pretty simple. Start with long grained rice, peas, carrots and onions, and add a little egg to bring it all together. The best part of making it at home is that you can spice it up according to your tastes. Add any protein cooked on the grill, and you just earned your Iron Chef status. On National Fried Rice Day, don't be afraid to mix things up in your own kitchen.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 19th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate scurvy sea dogs and cutting a rug.
Ahoy, me hearties! Batten down the hatches for one of the best days of the year. It’s Talk Like A Pirate Day, when you can unleash your inner buccaneer and pretend you’re a wiley old sea dog. Why say, “okay” when you can say “Aye Aye” instead? And why let Johnny Depp have all the fun? Some places offer discounts when you dress like a pirate and order like one too. But steer clear of any landlubbers who can’t take a joke, because clearly you’ve been waiting all year for this day.
Square dancing evolved from traditional European social dances, with most of the terms it uses coming from French. Why French? Because after the Revolutionary War, Americans embraced anything that wasn’t British. Social dances in Europe followed memorized steps, but American dances were less formal. Because no one wanted to learn a whole dance routine, one of square dancing’s most distinguishing features was born. A caller leads everyone through the dance steps so that dancers only need to be good listeners in order to have a good time. During National Square Dance Month it’s a great time to Do-Si Do and Promenade into a whole new hobby.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 18th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate legends in the sky and on the ground.
When Chuck Yeager enlisted into the United States Army he knew nothing about airplanes, and had little interest in finding out more. He learned that the Army Air Forces were looking for pilots and the position paid far better than his own at the time. Yeager applied for and got the job, then went on to become a highly decorated fighter pilot, earning the rank of Brigadier General. Most famously, he was the first person to break the speed of sound. But the event almost didn’t include Yeager. Two days before the test flight, he broke his ribs, but rather than notifying his superiors, he taped his chest and rigged a device to help him close the plane’s hatch. The rest is legend. As we celebrate the Air Force Birthday, may we honor the men and women who follow the path carved by this flying ace, who had all the “right stuff.”
Some foods are just plain perfect. And when that happens, everyone wants to take credit for inventing them. In the case of the cheeseburger we aren’t looking to settle that score, but here are some honorable mentions. In 1926, Lionel Sternberger was working at his dad’s restaurant, The Rite Spot in Pasadena, CA, when he dropped a slice of cheese on a sizzling burger. He claims to have been the first. But Gus Belt of the Steak n’ Shake and Louis Ballast of the Humpty Dumpty Drive-In both filed for a trademark on the word ‘cheeseburger’ in 1935. And the winner was Louis Ballast from Denver, Colorado. On National Cheeseburger Day, everyone’s a winner, especially if they serve it up with grilled onions.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 17th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the flavor of Fall and the rise of a swashbuckling sandwich.
As soon as the air turns crisp, we look forward to a new season of apples. To savor the season, we celebrate the flavor of Fall with apple dumplings. There are many variations from Bavaria to England, and while they all include apples and some kind of dough, the key difference is how they are cooked. The word dumpling in German means steamed, which is why their apple dumplings are boiled or steamed. The American recipe comes from Pennsylvania and in the Amish tradition they are baked. The dough is spiked with cinnamon and sugar and reaches a golden perfection that’s reminiscent of apple pie. No one can resist this treat and the Amish even eat them for breakfast. On National Apple Dumpling Day, celebrate the sweetness of the season’s best fruit!
If you’ve read The Count Of Monte Cristo, you might think of sword fights, adventure and swashbuckling. The Monte Cristo sandwich, on the other hand, has nothing to do with adventure or revenge. Made with white bread, ham, turkey and Swiss cheese that is dipped in batter and fried in butter, the Monte Cristo became popular in the 1950s. When it picked up a side of jelly on the menu at Disneyland in the 60s, this sandwich vaulted into stardom. The combo still holds a place on menus today, although now it’s served for breakfast or lunch. And I am personally am excited it's National Monte Cristo Day.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 16th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate an all American fruit and dough reinvented.
If you’re a fan of tropical fruits then you’ll know that their origins lie in faraway lands. Which is why it may surprise you to learn that pawpaw originated here in the United States. This fruit is often confused with papaya, though their color, taste and texture are quite different. The pawpaw has been called a Kentucky Banana or Hillbilly Mango, which gives you a hint at its tropical flavor. It was reportedly a favorite of George Washington and part of the Monticello garden cultivated by Jefferson himself. During the Corps of Discovery, Lewis and Clark wrote in their journals that they were quite fond of the pawpaw. At one point during their expedition in 1806, they relied on this food when other provisions ran low. On National Pawpaw Day, celebrate a tropical fruit with all American roots.
Fun is in the eye of the beholder. Take wallpaper cleaner for example. When Joe McVicker first invented his clay, it was useful for picking up soot. But when the fuel in our furnaces changed from coal to oil, wallpaper cleaner was no longer needed. That’s when Joe saw a new life for his compound and in the hands of some preschoolers, an idea took shape. The toy showed promise when he renamed it Play- Doh and added some color, but it took a certain captain to move it up the ranks. When Captain Kangaroo featured Play-Doh on his new CBS show, the clay became a household name. Inducted into the Toy Hall of Fame in 1988, it’s hard to imagine a world without this creative invention. On National Play-Doh Day, celebrate the spirit of fun that still fuels our kids’ imaginations.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 15th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a seasonal topper and wagging your pasta tongue.
As Summertime turns to Fall, most of us swap out our closets for cold weather clothes. If you are among the fashion forward, this means pulling out your felt hats. Not so long ago people wouldn’t dare to be seen without a hat on in public. More than a fashion statement, hats have identified our status, our military rank and even our religion. Think Quaker hat or the stovepipe kind worn by President Lincoln. These days, most people love the vintage styles of a pork pie or bowler. Be bold enough to try something new and you may never have a bad hair day again! On National Felt Hat Day, sport your own style, whether you’re mad as a hatter or conservative as a cloche.
Why are there so many different pasta shapes? You might think it’s silly to make a fuss over such things, but to the Italians everything has a reason. Some pastas like fettucine are flat and broad and made for holding cream sauce. Others like spaghetti are rounded in shape and perfect for tomato based sauces. And the best of both worlds is the elliptical shape of linguine, which means “little tongues.” For the people of Genoa, linguini is a 400 hundred year old tradition. The region also boasts it’s pesto and seafood. We find it’s best not to argue with tradition. On National Linguine Day, let these little tongues loose and don’t forget to clam up.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 14th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a classic snack and a hero by another name.
Back to school means packing school lunch and every parent knows that peanut butter is “brain food.” But PB&Js don’t always make the grade and that’s when it’s time for a good old standby: Ants On A Log. Celery sticks are sturdy and when they’re loaded with peanut butter and studded with raisins, this fun and healthy treat can beat any snack attack. The kid-friendly recipe has been around since the 1950s, so feel free to give it an update with your own variation of nut butter and dried fruit. Kids love them and parents know that the extra protein will help get them back in the swing of things. On National Ants On A Log Day, celebrate back to school with a crunchy bite that keeps kids going even when their minds wander off the trail.
Most foods are known by just one name, but the submarine sandwich varies widely by region. Depending on where you live, you may call it a sub, grinder or hero. But did you know that the name “hoagie” goes all the way back to World War I? During that time in Philadelphia there were a lot of Italian immigrants working the shipyards of Hog Island. Apparently, they were known for packing delicious sandwiches for lunch, which came to be known as “hoggies” after the island where they worked. The Philly accent probably explains how the name “hoggie” became “hoagie,” but a sandwich by any other name still tastes as good. On National Eat A Hoagie Day, feel free to call it anything you like, depending on where you live.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 14th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a classic snack and a hero by another name.
Back to school means packing school lunch and every parent knows that peanut butter is “brain food.” But PB&Js don’t always make the grade and that’s when it’s time for a good old standby: Ants On A Log. Celery sticks are sturdy and when they’re loaded with peanut butter and studded with raisins, this fun and healthy treat can beat any snack attack. The kid-friendly recipe has been around since the 1950s, so feel free to give it an update with your own variation of nut butter and dried fruit. Kids love them and parents know that the extra protein will help get them back in the swing of things. On National Ants On A Log Day, celebrate back to school with a crunchy bite that keeps kids going even when their minds wander off the trail.
Most foods are known by just one name, but the submarine sandwich varies widely by region. Depending on where you live, you may call it a sub, grinder or hero. But did you know that the name “hoagie” goes all the way back to World War I? During that time in Philadelphia there were a lot of Italian immigrants working the shipyards of Hog Island. Apparently, they were known for packing delicious sandwiches for lunch, which came to be known as “hoggies” after the island where they worked. The Philly accent probably explains how the name “hoggie” became “hoagie,” but a sandwich by any other name still tastes as good. On National Eat A Hoagie Day, feel free to call it anything you like, depending on where you live.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 13th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate trading places and how our nation got its uncle.
If you remember the movie Freaky Friday then you already know this cautionary tale for parents and kids: the grass is not always greener. If parents could step into the life of their children they would discover that it’s not all it’s cracked up to be, and vice versa. Why not meet in the middle by celebrating National Kids Take Over The Kitchen Day? It’s a great way to encourage young chefs while answering the dreaded question, “What’s for dinner?” Sure it might be pancakes or macaroni and cheese, but it could be a delicious change of pace. It also lets kids stretch their legs a little, while spending some quality time together. Just be sure to agree on who has to do the dishes, because that’s where things could get a little freaky.
When we hear the name Uncle Sam we immediately picture the serious man in the star spangled hat, all decked out in red, white and blue. Did you know that Uncle Sam is based on a real person? During the war of 1812, Samuel Wilson of Troy, New York worked in a meatpacking plant. The factory provided American troops with food for the war effort and thus their barrels and crates were stamped “U.S.” The stamping was Samuel’s job and his coworkers began joking that “U.S”. stood for “Uncle Sam.” The joke was on them, however, as the name stuck and became a symbol of our nation’s pride and strength. On Uncle Sam Day, celebrate your own patriotic spirit and be careful with nicknames that can last a lifetime.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 12th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate chocolate medicine and a real game changer.
In the late 1800s milkshakes were served in pharmacies as a tonic or medicine. These sturdy eggnog type drinks were spiked with whiskey and other ingredients that were thought to be medicinal. By the 1900s, a more wholesome drink was offered with either chocolate, vanilla or strawberry syrup and none of the alcohol. Malt powder made its debut in the 1870s but both malts and milkshakes hit their stride in the 1920s. By this time ice cream and blenders were more popular and elevated the milkshake to its frothy heights! Today we’re back to serving shakes as a health food with added protein powder and superfoods. On National Chocolate Milkshake Day, it’s just fine to celebrate with whipped cream and chocolate sauce to make the medicine go down.
In 2018 the film industry grossed over 41 billion dollars worldwide. Not too shabby. But it might surprise you to learn that during that same year, video games sales were over 152 billion! If you’re not quick with numbers, that’s nearly four times as much! Pretty impressive for an industry that started with a game called Pong which consisted of two lines and a dot that bounced back and forth between them. Since then, we’ve been introduced to Space Invaders, Donkey Kong, Sonic the Hedgehog and Mario Brothers. Every year the games get more elaborate and generate more revenue in an already booming market. On National Video Games Day, celebrate the pastime that is now bigger than all other forms of digital entertainment combined.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 11th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we remember the events from two decades ago that affected us all in some way.
Sometimes events can bring us together in the spirit of hope. Anyone who remembers 911 can recall the intense emotions of an event that united us in tragedy. As we reflect on that day from a distance now, we pay our respects to the fallen, along with the families who were forever changed. We also remember the heroism of the first responders and countless volunteers who helped us all overcome the fear of that day. While 911 is referred to as Patriot Day, it is also known as National Day of Service and Remembrance. May we strive to find hope in our common ground and promote acts of unity no matter how small.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 10th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the joy of music and a dinner flashback.
While you may not be a fan of classical music, I bet you’ve heard of Beethoven’s 9th Symphony. Ode to Joy is considered to be the composer’s greatest work. What makes this symphony so special is that it was composed when Beethoven was deaf. When the 9th Symphony debuted in 1824, he stood with the conductor in front of the orchestra with his back turned to the audience. As the performance ended, the crowd erupted into thunderous applause, and because he couldn’t hear, Beethoven had no idea that the audience liked it. Imagine his surprise as he turned around to see the standing ovation. During Classical Music Month, celebrate the oldies but goodies and find your very own ode to joy.
While the first aluminum tv dinner tray was added to the Smithsonian Museum in 1986, the origins of this meal are hotly contested. Maxon Food Systems manufactured the first frozen meal in 1945 for military and civilian air travel. The concept was further developed by Jack Fisher, who sold FridgiDinners to restaurants and taverns in the late 1940s. But the winner, winner chicken dinner goes to Swanson and Sons, whose Thanksgiving meal was first sold in 1953 for 98 cents. This dinner could be baked in the oven in under 30 minutes, which is pretty good for a meal that normally takes all day to make. And judging by the more than 10 million sold in the very first year, Americans were truly grateful. On National TV Dinner Day, celebrate this modern convenience that still holds a place at the dinner table.
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Welcome to September 9th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a serious schnitzel and a presidential bear.
If the name Wienerschnitzel makes you think of hotdogs, you’re not alone. But true Wiener Schnitzel is an Austrian dish that comes with a few strict rules. In Vienna this dish is made with veal by law and the name “Wiener” is German for Viennese cutlet. A schnitzel is the method of preparing any meat that is pounded thin, breaded and fried. Austrians claim that the recipe came from an Austrian Field Marshal in 1869. But the Italians have a bone to pick with this story. They insist that the recipe was borrowed from their cotoletta alla milanese, which is identical except that the veal is left on the bone. On National Wiener Schnitzel Day, settle the score with your own favorite recipe. Or head to Wienerschnitzel if you don’t have a dog in this fight.
Even before Theodore Roosevelt became President, he was an avid outdoorsman and hunter. But during his term, he became known for his compassionate side as well. On a hunting trip in 1902, Roosevelt’s companions lassoed a black bear and gave him an opportunity to take a shot. But the President refused to kill the defenseless animal and reportedly said, “I couldn’t be proud of myself if I shot an old, tired, worn-out bear that was tied to a tree.” News of this incident spread across the country and people admired his choice. In Brooklyn, New York a toymaker created a stuffed animal that was dubbed Teddy’s Bear. That bear became wildly popular and was soon in high demand. On National Teddy Bear Day, we celebrate this loveable toy and the softer side of the President who inspired it.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 8th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate fascinating fungus and the 27th letter.
The largest organism on Earth isn’t an animal. It isn’t a tree, either. Surprisingly, it’s a fungus called the honey mushroom that grows in Oregon’s Malheur National Forest. The mushroom has a system that covers nearly 2000 acres, both above and below ground. It’s also estimated to be around 8,000 years old, which makes it one of the oldest living things on the planet. For the fresher kind, folks can visit the mushroom capital of the world which is found in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. Here they produce more than one million pounds of edible mushrooms a day. This town is gearing up to celebrate National Mushroom Month with a festival that draws a crowd of 100,000. So if you happen to be near Chester County drop by for a portobello burger.
Every kid learns to recite their ABCs, but did you know that two hundred years ago there was a 27th letter? It appeared at the end, just after ‘z’ and though it’s not clear why this letter got the boot, the ampersand still holds a special place. It’s called a ligature, which is a fancy word for combining two letters. In this case the ‘e’ and the ‘t’ came together to represent the Latin word ‘et,’ which means ‘and.’ The symbol has been around for nearly 2000 years since the Latin shorthand system was created for Cicero. Today the ampersand gets special attention in logos and is the most often used special character in passwords. On National Ampersand Day celebrate this letter that left the alphabet song for its own starring role in language history.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 7th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate learning how the sausage is made and a top down love for beer.
While American cuisine boasts an array of international flavors, today we celebrate an Italian favorite. The Latin word “salumen” means a mixture of salted meats. Salami is a generic term used to describe any encased meat product, but in Italy this typically means pork. In the same way that cheeses are named for the place in which they’re made, salami is more specifically identified by its native region. This could be Salami di Felino from Parma or Soppressata from Calabria. The sausages vary by spice and curing process, but most are tied and aged in cool dark cellars for days or months. On National Salami Day, try something truly special as you find out how the sausage is made.
Americans have loved beer from the beginning. George Washington was a huge fan of porters. Thomas Jefferson kept his home well stocked with beer. James Madison wanted to establish a national brewery and appoint a Secretary of Beer. Sadly, that idea did not come to fruition. Franklin Roosevelt continued this presidential tradition. When he came into office, FDR promised to have Prohibition repealed. And before the ban was lifted on any other alcohol, Roosevelt signed an executive order to legalize the sale of—you guessed it—beer. During National Beer Lover’s Day, crack open a cold one and enjoy the drink that’s a favorite of world leaders and regular Joes alike.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 6th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate taking a virtual trip and a job well done.
One of the easiest ways to travel the world is to crack open a good book. Take a trip to Middle Earth, fight dragons and save the world from impending doom. Or hop a train at Platform Nine and Three-Quarters to enroll in a school for witches and wizards. And if romance is more your thing, get swept off your feet to the moors of Northern England. Books can take you anywhere and everywhere through the power of your imagination. And reading to your kids is a great way to introduce them to a life-long love of literature. On National Read A Book Day, celebrate by curling up for an hour or two with the perfect way to get away from it all.
Since 1882 we have honored the folks who labored to build the backbone of our country. These roads, buildings and infrastructure have supported us ever since our nation began. And while Americans are generally considered to be hard working, this day is all about relaxing with family and friends as we recognize the official end of Summer. If you’re headed back to school, you still have time for one more adventure. Why not take a road trip to admire some of that original handiwork? The monuments and highways that were proudly built by our ancestors still hold breathtaking views. Whatever you get up to on Labor Day, remember the tradition of patting yourself on the back for a job well done while you kick back with those you love.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 5th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate small miracles and the simply sublime.
Bees work very hard to make honey. In fact, a hive can produce up to 100 pounds of the sweet stuff each year. To put that in perspective, it takes approximately 768 bees who fly over 55,000 miles to visit 2 million flowers just to make a single pound of honey. And thank goodness that they do because not only does honey power the hive, it has tremendous health benefits for humans as well. For thousands of years honey has been used for food as well as medicine because of its antibacterial qualities. And because of its high acidity and low moisture content, it can last a long time. A really long time. If honey is sealed in an airtight container, it has an infinite shelf life. During National Honey Month, celebrate the golden goodness of this small miracle.
Whoever said, “Love is all you need” forgot about cheese, and if we are talking about pizza then cheese is definitely all you need. Dating back to ancient Greece, the simple flatbread known as pita was topped with olive oil, herbs and cheese, and it’s here that our love affair with pizza was born. Fast forward to Naples, Italy, in 1889 when a pizza with the colors of the Italian flag was made for the Queen. This Neapolitan style with cheese, sauce and a little basil was given the name Margherita in her honor. Today more than 2 billion pounds of pizza cheese are produced in the United States alone. That’s a lot of amore! On National Cheese Pizza Day, skip all those extra toppings and celebrate the good stuff!
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 4th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the call of the wild and one kid who changed the newspaper industry.
Did you know that tiger stripes are as unique as human fingerprints? Or that otters hold hands while they sleep to keep from drifting apart in the water? The natural world is a curious place, full of fascinating animals that most of us will never see in person, unless you live close to a zoo. But thanks to filmmakers such as Sir David Attenborough, we can watch the beauty of the animal kingdom from a front row seat in our living room. His amazing documentaries capture our imagination and plant wonder and compassion in our hearts for the natural world. They also answer questions like, “Which animal is more deadly, the crocodile or the hippo?” It’s the hippo of course. On National Wildlife Day, celebrate the call of the wild by taking a virtual safari.
When a young boy answered an ad in the New York Sun, looking for “steady men” to sell newspapers, little did he know that he would change history. On this day in 1933, 10 year old Barney Flaherty answered the call as a “steady man.” His attitude was so sincere that the newspaper’s publisher hired him on the spot. From then on, the infamous shout of: “Get your papers here!” was heard on street corners around the city. In 1960, The Newspaper Carrier Hall of Fame was created. It honors some of the more illustrious newspaper carriers including Martin Luther King, Jr., Warren Buffet and John Wayne. On National Newspaper Carrier Day give an extra shout out to the folks who carry on this tradition and an extra tip for great service.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 3rd, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate poor man’s rabbit and team spirit.
We all know that nicknames have a way of sticking with us. Take the name “Welsh Rarebit” for example. This basic dish of toasted bread with cheese sauce contains no actual rabbit and was originally called caws pobi in 16th Century Wales. The countrymen loved it so much that a joke sprang up at the time. It was said that God asked St. Peter to get rid of the Welsh from heaven as they were causing too much trouble. St. Peter stepped outside and yelled “caws pobi!” and the Welshmen all came out at once. The English dubbed this dish Welsh Rarebit towards the end of the 18th century as a nod to “poor man’s rabbit.” On National Welsh Rarebit Day try a bite of something classically delicious and raise a pint to the Welsh who don’t mind a bit of ribbing.
Fall is back and with it comes college football. The season can lead to heated arguments as friends and families cheer on their favorite teams. This fierce team loyalty even extends to the US Armed Forces. Army and Navy are usually on the same side. Except for once a year when the Army-Navy matchup takes place—possibly the fiercest rivalry in college sports. These teams have gone head to head 121 times, with the Navy winning 61 of them. Even sitting Presidents have attended the games between the Army Black Knights and the Navy Midshipmen, and the stands are usually full of either black, gold and gray or navy blue and gold. On National College Colors Day, celebrate your team spirit with the colors of your choice.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 2nd, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate topping things off and the heart strings that tie us all together.
The image of the bowler derby immediately calls to mind British gentlemen walking around London with an umbrella at their side. But this chapeau was conceived for the countryside. Edward Cook, a British politician, wanted a hat that was well suited for hunting. The traditional hats at the time were tall and would be knocked off when walking or riding through trees. Cook wanted something that fit closer to the head and the hat makers at James Lock & Co created the perfect cap—the bowler. So why is it called a bowler? Because London hat-makers Thomas and William Bowler got the credit for inventing it…even though it was Lock & Co. During Fall Hat Month, celebrate by dusting off your favorite chapeau, no matter how fancy or casual it may be.
When we think of our great Nation, the threads that tie us all together could be called Americana. Since the word was coined in 1841 it’s been used to describe anything in our culture, from folk music to food and events that strikes a chord in the hearts of people coast to coast. This word means home and that place might look different for everyone who embraces the word. What matters most is the history that keeps our roots connected. This pride of ownership in our country can hopefully soothe the gaps between us, while letting us celebrate the things that make us beautiful. September is National Americana Month and while we rediscover our own meaningful songs, stories and food, may we find respect among our nation’s most cherished traditions.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to September 1st, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate burnt ends and new beginnings.
While fans of barbecue have their personal favorite when it comes to style, Kansas City has one of the most distinctive takes on barbecue. Yes, there are ribs and pulled pork, but Kansas City is known for its burnt ends. This favorite is a cut from the tip of a smoked brisket. The outside is charred from the heat, but the inside is where the drippings collect, making for a flavorful bite-sized piece of BBQ heaven. For years, it was thrown away or tossed into stew, but now it’s a prized cut of meat. You can get all heated up over who has the best sauce, but no one can deny these tidbits are delicious. On National Burnt Ends Day, celebrate the perfect bite you can really sink your teeth into.
During its heyday, Route 66 offered beautiful scenery and lots of fun places to stop along the way. Chicken Boy was one of the most famous of these roadside attractions. The fried chicken restaurant boasted a giant statue of a man with a chicken’s head that welcomed visitors to the city of Los Angeles. But when a new highway system made Route 66 obsolete, many of the stops went out of business. This included the Chicken Boy, who was headed for the trash heap in 1984, when a local artist rescued him. Now installed on a rooftop, this icon is known as the Statue of Liberty of Los Angeles. On National Chicken Boy Day, celebrate this blast from the past with some wings or fried chicken and maybe a trip down Route 66.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 31st, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate cupid’s little helpers and snacks that go the distance.
Before online dating sites, the art of matchmaking was devised by a few brave souls who were willing to fire cupid’s arrows. The comic and tragic results of the professional matchmaker are portrayed by Will Smith in the movie Hitch, though occasionally, things work out smoothly. When Kat McClain got fed up with cupid’s algorithms, she turned to a professional matchmaking service to try things the old fashioned way. They matched her with Kevin Biely and the two agreed to record their first date. The difference was striking, as Kevin later revealed. He believes that it worked out so well because a lot of the criteria he had in his head were not actually consistent with what he really wanted. As for her response: a year later she said yes! On National Matchmaker Day, we celebrate the chemistry that can’t be found by a computer.
When you’re craving an outdoor adventure, you want to pack light. Trail mix is the perfect snack that fuels you up without weighing you down. This convenient snack has been used for thousands of years with a variety of ingredients. Native Americans added dried buffalo to the fruit and nut mixture. Trail guide Horace Kephart was the first to add chocolate to the mix in 1910. In Australia and New Zealand they call trail mix scroggin and add orange peel and grains. The term GORP stands for good ole raisins and peanuts, which was a recipe made up by two surfer dudes. In the spirit of keeping it simple, celebrate National Trail Mix Day with any combination that keeps you going for the long haul.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 30th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate finding our happy place and dessert on a stick.
Someone once said, “Happiness is a day at the beach.” That pretty much sums it up! The beach can be the very best place to get away from it all, with the smell of the salty air, the sand crunching between your toes and the sound of waves crashing into the shore. Just thinking about it makes you want to hop in the car and drive to the ocean. And if you want to avoid the crowds, taking a walk at sunset can be one of the most relaxing things you’ll ever do. Be sure to do your part and leave this paradise better than you found it. On National Beach Day, there is no better way to celebrate than by following the advice of Ralph Waldo Emerson: live in the sunshine, swim the sea, drink the wild air.
There is something truly magical about toasting marshmallows. When the fire dies down and you’ve had your fill of s’mores, there’s always room for another toasted marshmallow. In fact not everyone around the world enjoys making s’mores, but toasting perfect marshmallows seems to intrigue us universally. As far back as ancient Egypt, the sap from the mallow plant has been used for this confection. But it wasn’t until the late 1940s that marshmallows got their modern shape. And thanks to the extrusion process, those perfect puffy cylinders toast up evenly on a stick. On National Toasted Marshmallow Day enjoy the sticky dessert that makes camping life sweeter.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 29th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate odds and ends and all the ways we love lemon.
Alan Davidson calls the origin of chop suey a prime example of culinary mythology. It is believed that the name means “assorted pieces” and this name fits the hodge podge of myths surrounding its creation. Though the Chinese don’t claim the dish, they are usually at the heart of its stories, which go back as far as the 1860s. A Chinese chef in San Francisco was reportedly called upon to serve something to drunken miners after hours. He had nothing fresh to offer, so he combined leftovers and served a makeshift meal. It went over so well that the customers demanded a name for this dish and he supposedly replied, “chop suey,” which means odds and ends. On National Chop Suey Day, celebrate the delicious combination of flavors that piece together our love of Chinese cuisine.
The sunny yellow citrus fruit that brightens our ice tea and drinks turns out to be mighty useful around the house. Did you know that lemon juice freshens your garbage disposal and takes the stains out of your sink? Of course we know that it prevents apples from browning, but did you know it works on veggies too? Try the same trick on cauliflower or give wilted lettuce a lift by soaking it in water with the juice of a lemon. It can also brighten hair and fingernails and can be used in place of deodorant. Of course it still tastes great in lemonade, which is probably the best use of all. On National Lemon Juice Day, celebrate the multipurpose wonder of this mighty little fruit.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 28th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate cheesy shows and seeing red.
If you’re a fan of Zordon or Rita Repulsa, then you know exactly what we’re celebrating today. Although this kid’s show was pieced together with old footage from a Japanese TV show, Mighty Morphin’ Power Rangers was a huge hit in 1993. Five teenagers transformed into...well, Power Rangers, who then merged into a giant robot that fought monsters. Yeah, it sounds crazy, but if you grew up in the 90s, this was THE show to watch. And your neighborhood was probably full of every color of Ranger on Halloween. On National Power Ranger Day, celebrate with a walk down memory lane and watch some old episodes. The special effects are cheesy but the lessons on teamwork are priceless!
Though folks enjoy wine all year long, the end of Summer begins the seasonal celebration of the varietals known as reds. Merlot, Cabernet and Pinot Noir all pair well with the richer foods we all love to indulge in during cooler weather. And the good news is that reds are actually healthier for you than whites. The rule of thumb is that dryer wines are better for you than sweeter ones. And young wines, which tend to be darker, are healthier than the older, lighter ones. Moderation in all things is the key to a healthy life, but on National Red Wine Day, have fun indulging in the drink that’s the very symbol of celebration.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 27th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate getting to the good stuff and doing things “just because.”
Pots of cream may not sound delicious but pots de creme deserves its own celebration. Think of it as a cousin to crème brûlée. Both are made with simple ingredients of cream, eggs and flavorings, which are baked into pots or individual ramekins for a super rich and creamy flavor. Today most people think of pots de creme as a chocolate dessert though its texture is close to a vanilla custard. Interestingly, the French have no word for custard which has been around since the Middle Ages. In those days it was used to fill pies and tarts or “crustade,” and the name became attached to its original use. By the 17th century people realized that the cream was the best part anyway and pots of cream became a dessert on their own. On National Pots De Creme Day, celebrate getting to the good stuff with this decadent dessert!
When was the last time you did something “just because?” Have you ever stopped to think about what saying “yes” instead of “no” might do for your life? For Shonda Rhimes it all started at a family Thanksgiving dinner when her sister pointed out that she always said no to everything! When the self proclaimed introvert challenged herself to a year of saying yes instead, the results changed her life! She ended up writing a best selling book, delivering a TED Talk and producing the Emmy award winning television show, "Grey’s Anatomy." The writer producer describes the feeling of triumph that comes from doing things that scare you. On National Just Because Day, celebrate the life changing habits that may come from simply saying “Yes!”
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 26th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate women’s rights and man’s best friend.
On this day in 1920 the United States Congress passed the 19th Amendment to the Constitution granting women full and equal voting rights. While it may sound preposterous to our young women today, this amendment was 80 years in the making, if you take into account that the seeds of unrest were sown in the early 1800s. That’s when Lucretia Mott and Elizabeth Cady Stanton, along with Martha Wright, Mary Ann McClintock and Jane Hunt set in motion plans for the first woman's rights convention in Seneca Falls, New York after being denied access to the Anti-Slavery Convention in London. Today we celebrate National Women’s Equality Day and the one hundred years of progress we have made since the 19th Amendment was passed.
Over 15,000 years ago, early humans domesticated wolves and created a friendship that has stood the test of time. Since then dogs have proven to be loyal, friendly and hardworking to boot. No other canine represents these traits better than the film star Lassie. While this collie was first played by a pedigree female, she refused to swim in the river and was replaced by a male dog named Pal. Since then, all nine Lassies have been male and all of them descendants of Pal. It turns out that male collies don’t lose their coats as often as females and are therefore more suited to their movie closeups. On National Dog Day, celebrate your own furry friends who are awfully glad that you’re in their pack.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 25th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the great outdoors and one successful apprentice.
After serving in the Union Army during the Civil War, Ferdinand Hayden did geographical surveys of the Grand Canyon and what would become the Western United States. One particular region of Northwestern Wyoming caught his attention and he petitioned the government to explore and document this area. Along with photographer William Henry Jackson and painter Thomas Moran, he put together a report that was presented to Congress. It made such an impression that on March 1, 1872, President Grant established Yellowstone as the first National Park. Nearly 150 years later, Yellowstone is still one of the most visited. On National Park Service Founders Day, celebrate the folks who saw the forest for the trees and helped preserve our great outdoors.
In 1904 David Evans Strickler showed more than a little enthusiasm for his job. The 23 year old apprentice enjoyed making up new kinds of sundaes, but little did he know that he would soon make history. At Tassels Pharmacy in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, David stumbled upon the winning combination of three scoops of ice cream, whipped cream, nuts and a cherry all topping off a split banana. They charged double the price for this new concoction, but the banana split was worth all 10 cents. And eventually David bought the place, renaming it Strickler’s Pharmacy. To this day the Great American Banana Split Festival happens in downtown Latrobe. On National Banana Split Day celebrate the sweet rewards for being top banana!
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 24th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a tasty debate and Summertime’s freshest pie.
There are two kinds of people: pancake people and waffle people. Sure pancakes are delicious, but if you like to pile on the toppings, waffles are just built better for the job. It was likely this feature that encouraged Cornelias Swarthout to patent the waffle iron in 1869. Though this tasty breakfast has been around since the 14th Century, the invention made waffles more readily available. And when folks tasted the Belgian kind at the 1964 New York World’s Fair, they found even more ways to enjoy the deep pockets filled with toppings and sauces. On National Waffle Day, serve them anyway you please and invite your pancake friends to enjoy the difference!
Summertime means the freshest crops and the most delicious fruit. In Georgia that means peaches. Sure, California grows more of them than any other state, but in Georgia they have a reputation for being the best. Maybe that’s because to this day there are no major processing operations there. The good news for bakers is that Georgia peaches are always picked fresh and arrive in grocery stores full of juicy flavor. If you’re a pie maker you will know why this prize fruit is worth all the fuss. Making a perfect crust is only half the battle, and if you find tree ripened fruit, you’re on your way to a prize winning pie. On National Peach Pie Day celebrate with the freshest you can find, and if you live in the Empire of the South count yourself lucky!
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 23rd, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate challenging new heights in the kitchen and on the runway.
If you enjoy a good baking challenge, set your sights on the airy rise of a perfect sponge cake. One of the most difficult cakes for bakers to master, sponge cake makes the perfect backdrop for berries and cream or even a simple dusting of powdered sugar. And if you are intrigued by this challenge, here are a few tips to ensure your success. Start with sifting the cake flour which makes for a lighter batter. Cake flour is more finely milled and produces a finer crumb. For egg whites that whip to the highest heights use only the freshest eggs. And finally, be sure to add a measure of fun, which is best had by with a friend. On National Sponge Cake Day, don’t be intimidated by this lofty queen of cakes.
For as long as we have been watching birds fly, humankind has wanted to join them. The Wright Brothers achieved this in 1903 with a combustion engine plane, but it turns out that a human powered aircraft was much tougher to build. To create some incentive, the Royal Aeronautical Society announced the Kremer Competition in 1959 with a prize of 50,000 pounds. But the strict figure 8 course was tough to navigate and the prize was not awarded until August 23rd, 1977. That's when Paul MacCready’s Gossamer Condor 2 beat the Japanese Stork and a year’s worth of work paid off big! On National Ride the Wind Day visit the Smithsonian where the Gossamer Condor 2 is displayed next to the Wright Brothers Plane and the Apollo 11 moon capsule.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 22nd, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate food that takes a bow and magical dentistry.
During the Three Kingdoms era of China, a general and his troops found their way home was blocked by a raging river. The river god told the general that passage would only be granted if he cut off 50 of his soldiers’ heads and threw them into the river. Instead, the general ordered his cooks to create buns that looked like heads and threw them in the river instead. And, according to legend, that is how we came to have the delicious steamed buns known as bao. This may be a strange origin story for such a cute little dumpling, but on National Bao Day, we celebrate the small bite that tames our raging appetite.
No one is quite sure how fairies took an interest in children’s health in the 1920s. But when Sir Arthur Conan Doyle published photographs of two girls surrounded by fairies the fascination took flight. This phenomenon was useful for teaching kids everything from eating veggies to getting fresh air. Then in 1927 Esther Watkins opened a link to the supernatural with her play known as the Tooth Fairy. Since then teeth have been magically transformed into money by the mysterious fairy folk. On National Tooth Fairy Day, celebrate this age old legend that still affects our kids' imagination.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 21st, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate an industrious insect and dessert Italian style.
If you think the humble honey bee is just another bug, think again! While they seem to be aimlessly buzzing from flower to flower, they’re actually performing a valuable task. It’s estimated that over one third of our United States food production depends on bees pollinating crops. Farmers spend millions of dollars renting beehives that help this process. Without honey bees, many fruits and vegetables would disappear from our grocery stores. And these insects contribute around 24 billion dollars to agriculture every year, which is some pretty heavy lifting for a tiny little insect. Think about that the next time you’re tempted to swat one away from your drink. On World Honey Bee Day celebrate our busy friends that are hard at work keeping us fed.
No one does style quite like the Italians. When their delicious gelato became popular across Europe, ice cream makers had to find a way to ship it. Neapolitan ice cream was created in one big block, which seemed to do the trick. When Italian immigrants came to New York, they brought this treat over as spumoni, named after their favorite ice cream from Naples. This molded dessert marries chocolate, pistachio and cherry flavors, though vanilla is sometimes substituted for chocolate. The best part is that this creamy concoction has fewer calories than regular ice cream. On National Spumoni Day, celebrate this frozen twist that beats the heat Italian style.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 20th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate amazing mashups in the kitchen and in the lab.
Few things are as sweet as the Southern favorite pecan pie, but when someone decided to add chocolate, this candy-like dessert went over the top. Pecan trees are native to the American South, and this classic pie sprung up in the region around the late 1800s. Though sugar pies with a mixture of eggs, sugar and flavorings existed throughout Europe before then, the addition of crisp pecans is a claim to fame that’s purely American. The only other variation that puts this dessert on the map is a shot of bourbon whiskey. But for sheer decadent appeal a handful of chopped chocolate will likely make this Southern belle a true crowd pleaser. On National Chocolate Pecan Pie Day, celebrate the American way of taking things over the top!
While some inventions are created by just one genius, radio was born from a meeting of the minds. Oddly enough, these pioneers never sat down together. In Germany, the research of Heinrich Hertz proved that electricity could be transmitted wirelessly. From Croatia, Nikola Tesla provided the Tesla coil. And the first commercially available wireless was thanks to the Italian born Marconi. His technology was first used by the military but it was a Marconi wireless that broadcast the distress signal from the Titanic. Broadcast stations began airing programs in the 1920s that featured news from around the globe, and when entertainment followed the world became synchronized by the power of sound. On National Radio Day we celebrate this invention that is truly a melting pot of genius.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 19th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate playing with our food and more than a century in the wild blue yonder.
For as long as anyone can remember, parents have told their children to not play with their food. But Mr. Potato Head changed that. In the late 1940s, Mr. Potato Head—or at least parts of him—were included in cereal boxes. Kids would collect the body parts and piece them together with actual potatoes to make the character. It wasn’t until the 1960s that Hasbro began making the plastic version of the beloved character that we know today. So raise a French fry and remember our favorite spud as we celebrate National Potato Day. Later, taters!
While folks have been dreaming of navigating the skies for centuries, we usually give the credit to the Wright brothers for the first controlled, powered and sustained flight. The brothers tossed a coin to see who would test their glider first. Wilbur won the toss, however, his flight at Kitty Hawk lasted only 3 and a half seconds. Orville claimed the second attempt and made history on December 17, 1903. Today we can thank many inventors from Leonardo da Vinci to George Cayley for their contribution to aviation. But it was Franklin Delano Roosevelt who chose August 19th as the official date for National Aviation Day. On this day we also celebrate Orville Wright’s birthday.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 18th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate fussy grapes and a satisfying sizzle.
Pinot noir grapes are notoriously hard to grow. Too much weather variation can ruin a crop very quickly. Plus, the grapes grow in tight, cone-like clusters, which can be a problem because the fruit is extremely thin-skinned. This growth pattern is what gives the grape—and the wine—its name. The clusters look a bit like pine cones, and the skin is dark. Pinot noir. Oenophiles know that this finicky little grape makes a complex wine that doesn’t overpower—perfect for pairing with everything from bleu cheese to roast duck. On National Pinot Noir Day, celebrate with a glass of red that’s worth all the fuss.
It’s a long held belief that food cooked outdoors just tastes better. Maybe that’s why the sizzle of fajitas became a household favorite. It began in the early 1930s when Mexican vaqueros in Southwestern Texas found a way to use throwaway cuts of meat. These hungry cowboys cooked over an open flame and transformed the ordinary into a tantalizing meal. They paired the fire roasted meat with corn and flour tortillas and a regional dish was born. Fajitas took off around the globe when restaurants began serving them with peppers and onions, guacamole and salsa. No matter how you dress them up, it’s the flame licked flavor that makes them special. On National Fajita Day make your taste buds happy with the sizzle that really satisfies.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 17th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate cool cats and doing something good.
Perspective is everything. Take, for example, the black cat. In Ancient Egypt, cats were considered a sign of good luck. This is because felines helped to keep rats and mice away from food in storage. But in Europe, the same animal was seen as unlucky. As you’ve no doubt heard, a black cat crossing your path is bad luck. Mythology of Greek and Norse gods of the underworld were connected to the animal. Unfortunately, this is the superstition that became the most popular. On Black Cat Appreciation Day, drop the silly stereotype and embrace the cool-looking cat for all its charm and beauty!
Nonprofit organizations are the backbones of our communities. They inspire everyday folks to rise to the needs of those in their communities. Everything from reading to a child to performing surgery can be donated, thanks to organizations and capable people coming together. For those who want to lend a helping hand, but aren’t sure how, the nonprofit Do Something offers an opportunity to connect with any number of campaigns. It’s geared towards young people and allows users to select their interests and designate the amount of free time they are able to give. The good news is that no matter what your status is in life, there is likely a project that needs your help. On National Nonprofit Day celebrate your own spirit of giving with the charity of your choice.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 16th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the need for speed and the spirit of the islands.
Roller coasters attract adrenaline junkies to amusement parks around the world. These rides are thrilling and sometimes scary. But oddly enough, they were invented to keep people away from drinking and gambling. LaMarcus Adna Thompson built the first roller coaster in Coney Island, New York and it became very popular. The cars were powered only by gravity and sometimes hit top speeds of…6 miles an hour. The ride only cost a nickel, but people would ride it multiple times. A tradition that lives on to this day. On National Roller Coaster Day, take a trip down memory lane or choose something a little more wild.
When life gives you lemons, you make lemonade. And in the 1600s when sugar production was booming, life gave the West Indies lots of molasses. This byproduct mostly went to waste until it was discovered that a delicious spirit could be distilled from it. Rum was first recorded in Barbados as rumbullion or kill devil and indeed it caused quite a stir. It is said that British sailors received regular rations of the liquor from the 18th century all the way through 1970. But when England began heavily taxing the Colonies for their sugar, molasses and rum a rebellion started brewing. Today this spirit inspires party drinks with umbrellas and on National Rum Day we celebrate with one of life’s best examples of turning lemons into lemonade.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 15th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate kicking up our feet and a cheerful pastry.
The world seems to go a million miles an hour and we all need time to ourselves to decompress. For some, it’s meditation. For others, it’s getting a massage. And for a select few, it’s putting your feet in water and letting small fish chew away at dead skin. No really. That’s a thing. Fish pedicures are perfectly safe but it’s not for the squeamish. The point is that anything you do to relax is A okay as long as it chills you out. Today, please feel free to lean back and prop up your feet while you celebrate National Relaxation Day.
If you’re taking things easy on this sunny Summer day, then boy do we have the dessert for you. Bright as the sun and as “easy as pie” a lemon meringue would do nicely right about now. Though lemons grow year round and nothing brightens up a meal come rain or shine quite like lemon juice, it’s time to bake up this old fashioned shortbread crust with tangy yellow custard topped with fluffy clouds of sweet meringue. It’s rumored that Elizabeth Goodfellow first whipped up the dessert as we know it today in the 19th century, when she also founded one of the first cooking schools in America. On National Lemon Meringue Pie Day, celebrate with an all time classic that reminds us of sunshine in the clouds.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 14th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a game with a checkered past and a code that changed the game.
In the 1830s and 40s, officials in Connecticut passed a law to ban bowling. Apparently, the excessive gambling associated with the sport made it a threat to public welfare. Bowling at the time consisted of 9 pins, which is what the state outlawed. As a way to get around this, bowlers added an extra pin, creating the 10-pin game we know today. This new version of the game caught on inNew England, though it took a few innovations before bowling caught on with the rest of the country. First, the material used for bowling balls was changed from wood to rubber. Then in the 50s the automatic pinsetter changed the game forever. On National Bowling Day get out and celebrate this family sport that’s still on a roll.
During World War II, the United States military became frustrated as the Japanese cracked every code used by the Allies. The solution to this problem came from an unlikely source, Native American tribes. Because many native languages such as Navajo and Comanche were unwritten and spoken only by tribespeople, they became the perfect basis for a new secret code. Native speakers were sent with army divisions to transmit and decode messages from the field of battle. The code they created could not be broken and helped change the course of history. On National Code Talkers Day, we celebrate these unsung heroes of World War II and the top secret role they played.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 13th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate left handed compliments and celebrity Southpaws.
If you’ve ever wondered, “Where’s the beef?” after being served a filet mignon, then it’s probably not the steak for you. Mignon means “cute” in French and while filet refers to the most quality cut of the tenderloin, beauty is definitely in the eye of the beholder. The French use the term filet mignon to describe pork not steak and you would have to ask for filet de boeuf in order to get a cute little steak in France. So where did this name come from? Turns out it was an American author, O. Henry who coined the term in his 1906 novel “The Four Million.” Apparently, he thought it was a more ironic way to size up a teeny, tiny steak, than asking the waiter, “Hey, where’s the beef?!” On National Filet Mignon Day, don’t get too cute with the waiter, after all this tenderloin is still delicious!
In ancient times being left handed was associated with witchcraft. Joan of Arc was supposedly burned at the stake for being left handed. The word sinister actually means “on the left” and for some reason this association has been around awhile. But fear not. Being a Southpaw actually has its advantages. In baseball, left handed batters are one step closer to first base. This automatically makes them more valuable players. Eight of our United States Presidents have been left handed. So were Einstein, Mark Twain, Beethoven and Bill Gates. With only ten percent of the population being left handed, chances are good that being a lefty means you’re in good company. On International Left Handers Day celebrate the difference that could make all the difference.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 12th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate rocking the world and rocking around the clock.
What do Abraham Lincoln, Walt Disney, and Thor have in common? Go ahead. Take a second to think about it. Give up? They’re all middle children. Well, not the actual Thor. It’s Chris Hemsworth—the actor who plays him. And oddly enough, so is Tom Hiddleston, who plays Loki right beside him. Middle children are often ignored while their parents lavish attention on their older and younger siblings. As a result, many of them seek attention from other sources…and that can push them onto bigger and better things. So if you’re the sibling stuck in the middle of the pecking order, National Middle Child Day is the perfect time to put your stamp on the world.
If you’re still hanging on to a collection of vinyl records, you are not alone. While you may catch some grief from family and friends over these dusty old relics from the past, vinyl record sales are on the rise. The largest collection contains more than one million LPs. Fans know they are much more valuable than the CDs they replaced. For audiophiles, there is no better sound than the distinct quality of a classic vintage record, and if you’re a collector you probably know that five of the top ten most expensive vinyls ever produced came from the Beatles. The White Album alone fetched a whopping 790,000 dollars. On National Vinyl Record Day give your records a spin and celebrate a sound that still makes you rock around the clock.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 11th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate desserts of mass destruction and the Commanders in Chief who are not afraid to bomb.
When something is really great, we say it’s the bomb. But back in the day we called a bombe dessert. This molded confection that’s layered with ice cream, fruit and nuts gets its name from its resemblance to a cannonball. These beauties showed up in the French cookbooks of the 1880s, when Europeans went over the top making food look festive. Though it’s unclear if the dome shaped dessert was meant as a threat, it has certainly been a favorite of State dinners and royal banquets for centuries. On National Raspberry Bombe Day try a festive treat that is truly the bomb!
The responsibility of being President of the United States isn’t a laughing matter, but some of them have been really funny guys. Or at least able to take a joke. Even Lincoln knew how to get in a quick one-liner. When accused of being a liar, he said, "If I were two-faced, would I be wearing this one?” But few had the quick wit of Ronald Reagan. He once rode horses with Queen Elizabeth II and her horse was a bit…gassy. When the Queen apologized on behalf of her mount, Reagan supposedly replied, “Quite all right, Your Majesty. I thought it was the horse.” On National Presidential Joke Day, have some fun learning about the silly side of our Commanders in Chief.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 10th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a trying sport and tried and true dessert.
Few pastimes have inspired so much anger and frustration as golf. For something so popular, it sure makes people angry. Take, for example, Winston Churchill, who called the sport “…a game whose aim is to hit a very small ball into an even smaller hole, with weapons singularly ill-designed for the purpose.” Even pro golfers aren’t immune. PGA champion Gardner Dickinson lamented: “People say golf is like life, but don’t believe them. Golf is more complicated than that.” So why do we play? Probably because it’s often more about hanging out with friends than the game itself. During National Golf Month, have fun hitting the links and if things don’t pan out, you can always celebrate National Lazy Day instead.
The next time you’re camping and spinning up stories around the fire, consider the origin of the s’more. Most believe that it was Alec Barnum that first created the treat in the late 1800s. Not much is known, however, about the entrepreneur that left a sticky trail of myths and legends. Enter Loretta Scott Crew. This leader taught hungry girl scouts how to perfectly toast a marshmallow, and her recipe for s’mores was printed in the 1927 guidebook. Today Trampling and Trailing With The Girl Scouts is still known for this treat, though everyone has their own secret for making the gooey, crispy delight. On National S’mores Day celebrate the dessert that’s become a right of passage and worthy of one more log on the fire.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 9th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate leaders who make a contribution for better or worse.
Julius Caesar made many important contributions to Western civilization. But he also set the world of books back by thousands of years. During his siege of Alexandria, he accidentally set fire to the world’s largest library. Another historical figure is at the opposite end of the bibliophile spectrum: Thomas Jefferson. When the United States Library of Congress was burned in 1814, thousands of books were lost, but Thomas Jefferson came to the rescue, providing 6,000 of his own to rebuild the library. And since then, it’s grown to be the largest in the world with more than 38 million volumes, not to mention all the photographs, maps, music, and special collections. On National Book Lovers Day, celebrate your own collection by cracking open a good page turner.
Daniel Tompkins, George Dallas, Hannibal Hamlin. You may have never heard of these men, but at one time they each held the office of Vice President of the United States. In modern times, when you vote for a President, the Veep is part of the package, but originally things were quite different. In our country’s early years, the office went to whomever finished with the second most electoral votes. That was until the election of 1800, when Thomas Jefferson and Aaron Burr tied for second place. The messy outcome led to the passage of the 12th Amendment, which changed the system of voting at the time. Many of our Vice Presidents may have slipped into obscurity but on National Veep Day we celebrate the important office that can strongly affect a presidency.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 8th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate an overzealous fruit and well traveled bill.
Backyard vegetable gardens can be difficult to maintain. Carrots, tomatoes, beans…you never know what kind of harvest will come from weeks and months of care and cultivation. One summertime vegetable that’s easy—almost too easy—is the zucchini. This squash seems to grow no matter what the weather or quality of your soil. In fact, one plant can yield up to 10 pounds of fruit, leaving gardeners with more zucchini than is humanly possible to consume. And yes, it’s technically a fruit. If you’re overwhelmed by your zucchini harvest, enjoy National Sneak Some Zucchini Into Your Neighbor’s Porch Day and hope that they’re not celebrating too.
Here in the United States, it’s estimated that one dollar bills exchange hands at least 110 times a year. And because they’re passed around so frequently, they have a shorter lifespan than our larger currency. A one dollar bill lasts only about 6 years, whereas a one hundred dollar bill can last up to 15 years. Most paper would tear or fade from all that use, but here in the United States we have a solution. Our notes are made from an exclusive blend of cotton and linen, which is a closely guarded secret. Due to counterfeiting, the design of larger bills has changed over the years. But the dollar has remained the same for more than fifty years. It may not get much attention but on National Dollar Day we celebrate the bill that has probably already out traveled you.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 7th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate an age-old condiment and the oldest military honor.
On this day we celebrate one of the oldest condiments in the history of the world. No, it’s not that long-forgotten bottle of ketchup in the back of your fridge. It’s mustard. The ancient Romans ground mustard seeds into a powder which they combined with vinegar to make a paste. They discovered that this flavor combo was delicious on all sorts of foods. As the Roman Empire spread across Europe, so did the love of this condiment. Households during the Middle Ages used a lot of mustard, as did 17th century England, where the modern version was created. And that’s how mustard made its way from ancient Rome to the top of that hotdog you’re about to eat. On National Mustard Day enjoy a classic flavor that never goes out of style.
Purple Heart Day honors the extraordinary men and women who are of the Military Order of The Purple Heart. George Washington first created the Badge of Merit in 1782, which was awarded to six veterans of the Revolutionary War. The modern day Purple Heart, which bears Washington’s image, was given to General Douglas MacArthur in 1944. MacArthur helped to change the requirements that limit the award to only those wounded or killed in combat. Today it is estimated that the oldest military honor has been bestowed on nearly 1.9 million people since it was created. On Purple Heart Day we thank all those who have dedicated their lives in service to our country.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 6th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the beer melting pot and frosty dreams.
When German immigrants arrived in the United States, they introduced America to lager beers, a traditional German style. So it’s ironic that lagers became popular during World War II at a time when our country hated everything German. American soldiers serving in Europe discovered the brew and loved it. Lagers had lower alcohol content than ales and came in cans, for easy transport. When the soldiers returned home, they brought their taste for the beer, as well as the tradition of drinking it from cans—something that was once frowned upon. On International Beer Day we celebrate our heritage as a cultural melting pot and the small things that never fail to bring us together!
Staying frosty during the Summer heat is a challenge. Especially when it tends to stay hot well into the evening. It was on such a night, in 1893, that Frank Wisner found himself gazing at the snow capped peaks of Cow Mountain in Colorado. He noticed that they looked just like ice cream floating in soda. The vision turned to inspiration and the next day he scooped creamy vanilla into ice cold root beer. This first creation was dubbed the Black Cow after the mountain peaks, but we know them today as a root beer float. For that we can thank Wisner’s kids whose favorite drink was Myers Avenue Red Root Beer. Any other flavor combo wouldn’t be the same. On National Root Beer Float Day celebrate the soda fountain classic inspired by nature.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 5th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate dogs and beers that go the distance.
Before snowmobiles and airplanes, the best way to get around in snow country was via dog sled. This method of transportation is rare today, but once a year in Alaska, racers and their teams of dogs keep the tradition alive with a race called the Iditarod. Sleds travel from Anchorage to Nome, a journey of nearly 1,000 miles! It takes the team of 16 dogs at least a week to complete this distance. This not only commemorates the role that dogs played in the settlement of Alaska, it defines the saying “work like a dog.” On National Work Like a Dog Day, you may wanna let your pooch curl up on the couch while you do the heavy lifting.
In the late 1700s, the British Empire spanned the globe, and one of its largest colonies was India. The Brits living there demanded goods from back home which created a significant trade route between the two countries. One of the most popular imports was beer, which didn’t age well when it was shipped to warmer climates. George Hodgson of the Bow Brewery came up with a solution. He brewed a lighter beer, called pale ale, then increased the amount of alcohol and hops in order to prevent spoilage. The downside was that the hops would lose their fruity flavor and produce a bitter taste. And so India Pale Ale was born. Some say this drink is an acquired taste, but on National IPA Day we celebrate beer that really went the distance.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 4th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a portable meal and one smart cookie.
John Montagu was obsessed with gambling. So much so that he played cards for hours on end, even forgetting at times to eat. Then one day, he devised a meal that could be eaten with one hand. He requested that a servant bring him some meat between two pieces of bread, and thus the Earl of Sandwich created the, well, the sandwich. Since then, this portable meal has become one of the most popular finger foods in the world. And with so many good choices, from a multilayered club to the humble peanut butter and jelly, we decided that you need a whole month to celebrate. During National Sandwich Month, enjoy packing your fun on the go. Though you may not be as obsessed as the Earl who started it all.
Ruth Wakefield and her husband Kenneth ran the Toll House Inn in Whitman, Massachusetts. Ruth was a renowned baker, but is best known for adding semisweet chocolate to her butterscotch cookie dough. This recipe became a regional favorite, but during World War II it caused a cookie craze. Soldiers from Massachusetts that were stationed overseas began to receive chocolate chip cookies in care packages from home. Soon Wakefield was inundated with requests for her recipe from all around the globe. Nestle offered her a lifetime supply of chocolate in exchange for it, and to this day the Toll House recipe is printed on every bag of chocolate chips. On National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day celebrate the sweet success of one smart cookie.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 3rd, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate Summertime favorites and protein on the go.
Summer wouldn’t be the same without a slice of juicy watermelon. Most of us look forward to the season when the round or oval melons can be seen stacked one on top of one another. Unless you’re in Japan. There, the watermelons are square. It’s not some weird mutation—the fruit is intentionally grown this way. When the melons are still small, they are put into square boxes made of tempered glass. As they grow, the fruit takes on the shape of the box. This makes for easier storage and display in grocery stores. But no matter how you stack it, National Watermelon Day is the perfect time to enjoy this refreshing treat.
Nuts have been a healthy snack for thousands of years. The Hanging Gardens of Babylon featured pistachio trees. And the Ancient Greeks believed that hazelnuts could cure baldness. But here in America, the most popular nut is actually a legume. And thanks to the cartoon version known as Mr. Peanut, this snack has enjoyed one of the best ad campaigns of all time. In 1916 young Antonio Gentille submitted his drawing of the character for a contest run by Planters. The company paid him five dollars for his design, but later paid his college tuition, after realizing the value of this icon. Mr. Peanut still appears in Super Bowl ads and on National Grab Some Nuts Day we celebrate this healthy way to get some protein on the go.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 2nd, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate two old school ways to treat the kid in all of us.
Any kid who’s spent a rainy afternoon cooped up in the house with a coloring book owes a debt of gratitude to Kate Greenaway. The Victorian-era artist became famous for her work with popular children’s authors of the day. Her whimsical illustrations of Victorian life, famous nursery rhymes, and fairy tales made her a favorite of both kids and parents. In the late 1800s, she teamed up with the McLoughlin Brothers to put together a book of black and white drawings that would later be known as coloring books. They were initially meant to be used with watercolor paint, but coloring books really took off when paired with their best friend—the crayon. On National Coloring Book Day, celebrate the kid in all of us with the best way to brighten up any day.
If you are a fan of the ice cream sandwich, you can thank a pushcart salesman, who invented the treat in 1899. Though his name remains a mystery, it’s believed that this inventor peddled his creation for one penny, in the Bowery neighborhood of New York City. Carts soon popped up everywhere and by 1940, ice cream sandwiches were sold in grocery stores nationwide. Today it is estimated that around 48 sandwiches are consumed every second in the United States alone, and around 50 percent of them are consumed on the Eastern Seaboard. On National Ice Cream Sandwich Day celebrate this classic treat that never goes out of style.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to August 1st, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we remember that there’s no time like the present to celebrate our friends.
When Harry Houdini met Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, each man was at the height of their careers. One was the world’s most famous magician and the other the creator of the wildly popular Sherlock Holmes. They immediately took to one another and became good friends. Doyle and Houdini would write back and forth often, and their families even went on vacation together. However, the two began arguing over something trivial—ghosts and the supernatural—and had a falling out. When Houdini died, Doyle realized how much he missed his friend and greatly regretted their estrangement. On National Friendship Day, take time to let the people in your life know how much they mean to you and look past all the ghosts in your closet.
While these two redheads were both comedians, their age gap of 22 years made them an unlikely pair. But when Lucille Ball first saw Carol Burnett in an off-Broadway production of Once Upon A Mattress, she had to go backstage and pay her respects to this funny gal. On their very first meeting Lucy told Carol, “Kid, if you need me for anything, give me a call.” And Carol took her up on it when she invited Lucy to be on her show. CBS had given Carol a break by inviting her to do an hour long special, but only if she could land a big name star. Lucy said “yes” and it more than launched Carol’s career, the two became lifelong friends. On National Girlfriends Day celebrate the bffs who have always got your back.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to July 31st, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the extraordinary deeds of an ordinary breed and a mighty fruit.
Nobody’s really sure how Owney, a scruffy little dog, came to be at a post office in Albany, NY. But one day he just started showing up and became a part of the team. People speculate that Owney was attracted to the smell of the leather mail bags, which he would follow around, including onto trucks and trains! Soon he was escorting mail carriers all around the state and the country. At each new location, the workers would add a tag to his collar, marking his travels. Owney collected so many tags that the Postmaster General ordered him a custom harness to wear instead of the collar. He became so important to the US Postal Service that the little mutt was given his own special memorial in the Smithsonian Institution. On National Mutt Day, celebrate the ordinary breads that find a special place in our hearts.
While the Aztecs knew the power of the mighty green avocado, it took a modern company to put this fruit on the map. Model Meals founded National Avocado Day in 2017 and since then we have discovered lots of reasons to celebrate. For one, avocados target insulin resistance with heart healthy fats. They also fight Alzheimer's with their Omega 3 fatty acids. Another avocado superpower is preventing and repairing damage with its source of Vitamins C, E and K. Best of all avocados taste great in guacamole, sliced over a salad and topping off a burger or chicken sandwich. And if you’re not a huge fan, you can still celebrate National Avocado Day by slipping some into a smoothie.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to July 30th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate healthy cheesecake and getting gnarly.
Family recipes often get passed down through several generations before anyone thinks to write them down. According to historical records, the Ancient Greeks invented cheesecake over 4,000 years ago. It was considered a healthy food that was a good source of energy. So much so that Olympic athletes would eat it before competitions. Cheesecake was even served as a wedding cake. But no one thought to write out the recipe until the Greek author Atheneaus did so in the year 230 CE. Though it’s not the same style of cake we know today, you can still find it online and give it a try. On National Cheesecake Day, celebrate with your own family recipe and don’t forget to share!
If you’ve been craving some adventure in your life then National Get Gnarly Day is your day to break free. The way surfers chase after perfect waves, getting gnarly is all about doing something over the top that sets your heart on fire. If you need some inspiration, look no further than Hulda Crooks. Born in 1896, Hulda decided to take up mountain climbing at age 54. She was already an avid runner, but never considered hiking or climbing, until her husband passed away and her own struggle with pneumonia left her feeling weak. That didn’t keep her from scaling Mount Whitney at age 66. Another 23 ascents gave her the title of Grandma Whitney. Then at age 91, Hulda climbed Mount Fuji in Japan! On National Get Gnarly Day, get out of your head and get into your heart!
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to July 29th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a perfect pucker and a bar food favorite.
If you love to get attention for your perfect pucker then you’re in good company. Though lipstick has sparked some controversy throughout the ages, there are some famous folks who approved of it. George Washington himself wore lip rouge. Winston Churchill believed that lip color boosted morale in an excellent way. On the other hand Queen Victoria thought it was impolite to color your lips and in the 1770s, British Parliament banned lipstick, calling it a devilish attempt to trick men into marriage. Some people associated lipstick with witchcraft and it could be because it contained poisonous additives. Today our lips are liberated with multiple shades from shocking red to barely pink. On National Lipstick Day, celebrate with your signature shade.
In 1964, the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, NY, changed the world of bar food forever. When the pub received too many chicken wings from their supplier, Teressa Bellissimo wasn’t sure what to do with them. Her son came in with friends, who got hungry as they were having some beers. Teressa deep fried the wings and served them with a spicy sauce, in the hopes of using up the surplus of wings. The men loved them and chicken wings became a staple on the menu at Anchor Bar. And they’ve served them at the restaurant ever since. Oh…and the bleu cheese dressing and celery? Teressa claimed she didn’t have anything else to serve and added them to the plate. I’m so excited, it’s National Chicken Wing Day.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to July 28th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a Summer oasis and savoring the sweet life. About midway between Los Angeles and Las Vegas, in the middle of the Mojave Desert, sits a small abandoned body of water called Lake Dolores. It doesn’t look like much now, but it was once home to one of America’s first water parks. Bob Byers built the area around the lake as a place for camping, then over the years added waterslides. Throughout the early ‘70s and ‘80s, Lake Dolores was one of the most popular tourist attractions in Southern California. Although many of the rides—including a stand-up waterslide—seem dangerous by today’s standards, Byer’s creation helped pave the way for more elaborate parks. On National Waterpark Day, celebrate by taking the plunge on a thrill seeker’s ride or cooling off in the lazy river.
We can all thank the Mayans and Aztecs for bringing us drinking chocolate, but today we celebrate the sweet candy bars that most of us crave. It was a Dutch chemist who invented the process of separating cocoa butter from cacao in the early 1800s. But in 1875 when Daniel Peter added powdered milk to chocolate liquor, the milk chocolate lovers rejoiced. Here in North America a whopping 71 percent of us prefer milk chocolate over dark. Sure we know that dark chocolate counts as a health-food, but the sweeter milk chocolate has a smooth way of winning us over. Companies such as Hershey's make out either way, but on National Milk Chocolate Day we can all celebrate the sweet side of this debate.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to July 27th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the “essence of smooth” with a sweet dessert and a dram of class.
If someone offered you a dish called “burnt cream” you’d most likely say, "No thanks!" But say it in French and you get the much more appealing “crème brûlée .” It starts off with cream that is steeped with vanilla, sugar and egg yolks that all end up in a warm bath that is baked to perfection in the oven. With a crisp, burnt sugar shell, this creamy custard has been an elegant finish to any meal since 1691. The English claim they created this dish in the 15th century calling it Cambridge Cream. And the Spanish claim they have been serving flan as far back as the 5th century. But today we are celebrating the “essence of smooth” with National Crème Brûlée Day.
Whiskeys get their distinctive flavor from the distillation process or the type of barrels in which they’re aged. In the case of Scotch whiskey the flavor comes from peat. Peat gives Scotch its unique smoky flavor and comes from the bogs and marshes around the Scottish countryside. The level of smokiness depends on the time the barley grain is exposed to peat smoke during the 30 hours it dries before being distilled. Meant to be sipped from a glass or even paired with a fine cigar, good Scotch should be savored. On National Scotch Day, celebrate by pouring yourself a dram of this sip of class.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
These Pioneers Carved A Path Across Through The Sky And The Old West.
Welcome to July 24th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the spirit that won the old West and our place in the sky.
Many of us have wondered what it would be like to completely reinvent ourselves. In the late 1800s, all it took was to move to the American West. Take for example John Henry Holliday. He came from a respectable family in Georgia and studied dentistry in Philadelphia. After a few years, he moved his practice to Dallas, Texas. But then John gave up dentistry and became a gambler…and a gunfighter. The legend we now know as Doc Holliday earned a reputation as a man not to be messed with, especially after joining up with the famous lawman Wyatt Earp. Cowboys became a symbol of the American West because of men like these. On National Day of the Cowboy we celebrate the spirit that helped build our Nation.
At age 10, Amelia Mary Earhart knew she wanted to fly an airplane. While women in her day were not supposed to do such things, this adventurous tomboy saved up and bought a bright yellow biplane called The Canary. From there, she blazed a trail across the sky. Charles Lindbergh was the first to complete a solo flight across the Atlantic, but Earhart was the first woman to achieve this mission four years later. Her flight was fraught with complications and after more than 14 hours she landed in Derry, Ireland. This earned her the United States Distinguished Flying Cross. Throughout her life, Earhart broke many records and her disappearance in 1937 while circumnavigating the globe remains a tragic mystery. On National Amelia Earhart Day, celebrate this pioneer who inspired the world with her love of aviation.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
This Town Holds The Record For Longest Running July 4th Parade.
Welcome to July 4th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate slow cooking by day and lighting up the night.
Fireworks may own this particular evening, but the day is all about barbecue, though technically what most of us do is grilling, that is cooking meat over a fire. Barbecue is cooking meat slowly over indirect heat or in a smoker. This tradition started in the American South, where farmers would try to use every bit of meat they could from the pigs they had raised. Some of the meat, such as between the ribs, was pretty tough to eat. But they found that cooking ribs slowly over indirect heat made the meat tender and succulent. The tastiest of these come from the belly, and are called spareribs. Today while we celebrate our Nation’s birthday we also enjoy a food that is uniquely American on National Barbecued Spareribs Day.
While Independence Day is celebrated across the country today, one town holds the record for the longest running parade. Since 1785, Bristol, Rhode Island has boasted this unbroken tradition, with nearly 200,000 attendees from all over the world. The festivities begin on Flag Day or June 14th with soapbox races and outdoor concerts that continue throughout the month of June. This culminates on July 4th with the parade that commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Independence. From just about anywhere today you can see spectacular displays of fireworks and attend festivals and parades in your own neighborhood. No matter how you celebrate, Independence Day is a time to cherish freedom and to honor those who sacrificed to build our great Nation.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Brian Reinbold. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
Some Call Them Pancakes. Others Call Them Flapjacks. But If You Order Them In The UK, You Might Be Surprised At What You Get.
Welcome to March 7, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the many names for breakfast.
Americans speak the same language as folks over in England, but there are a lot of differences. Especially when it comes to what we call things. Here, you take an elevator to travel between floors. But in the UK, you take a lift. And of course, what we call cookies, they call biscuits. Today we celebrate one of our favorite breakfast foods—one that’ll cause some confusion if you’re overseas. In the United States, if you order flapjacks, you’re going to get a stack of pancakes, likely smothered in delicious butter and maple syrup. If you do the same across the Atlantic, or maybe even in parts of Canada, you’ll end up being served a…granola bar? Travelers beware. It’s National Flapjack Day and wherever you are, enjoy your favorite breakfast.
Cereal appeals to the kid in all of us. You may find it curious that all the brightly colored boxes promising a toy inside did not start out that exciting at all. And while Kellogg’s Corn Flakes were the first cereal to provide a prize inside the box in 1909, they were originally designed to be boring. Dr. John Harvey Kellogg believed that a bland diet would curb our sinful human nature and Corn Flakes were his first line of defense. The cereal later took a ride aboard Apollo 11, where they were formed into cubes to be eaten without milk. Few other cereals have such an illustrious history, though some have enough sugar to rocket your kids to the moon and back. On National Cereal Day, celebrate your inner child with a bowl full of crunchy goodness.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
What's Your Favorite Snack Food?
Welcome to February 22nd, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate healthy snacks and a frozen twist.
If I say snack, you say? It’s National Snack Food Month and before you go hog wild on all the stuff you gave up for New Year’s consider this: healthy snacking is a good way to lose weight. Smaller servings of nutrient rich food can keep your metabolism stoked all day. So keep some heart healthy nuts with you. Or load up your lunch box with fresh veggies and fruit. Hard boiled eggs and beef jerky are great for protein on the go. Oh I give up. Grab some yummy snacks and enjoy them with a margarita. That’s right folks it’s also National Margarita Day!
When Mariano Martinez began serving frozen margaritas at his restaurant in the 1970s, he found that people loved this new version of the drink, but his bartenders did not. There was too much time and preparation involved in making one. Martinez found a solution at a 7-Eleven convenience store. He noticed the Slurpee machine and thought it would be a great way to make a large batch of margaritas. Using a soft serve ice cream machine he began experimenting with recipes to get the consistency of the margaritas just right. Eventually, he found the perfect mixture of tequila, simple syrup, and water. And voila! A new twist on an old favorite was born. Celebrate National Margarita Day with some chips, salsa, and this frozen favorite.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
Do You Speak Your Pet's Language? If Not, Find Out What You're Missing!
Welcome to February 20th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate talking with the animals and a slice of history.
These days you probably don’t need a reminder to love your pet. The furry, feathery or scaly creatures that chew up our furniture and make messes on the floor hold a special place in our hearts. You may even think you’re good at spoiling them, but have you ever considered learning their language? I’m not talking about a Dr. Doolittle course, but love languages are universal. These include physical touch, quality time, words of affirmation, gifts and service. Chances are that your pets are giving you clues as to which of these they prefer the most. Once you understand all of their messages you can probably avoid the cold shoulder or an accident on the rug. On National Love Your Pet Day celebrate the best friend in your life who already knows the way to your heart.
Pies have been around for thousands of years, but most were savory, filled with meats and cheeses. But pie really took off in the 1500s, when someone started making them sweet by baking in fruit. According to legend, the first person to be served a cherry pie was Queen Elizabeth I. There’s even some versions of the story that say she came up with the idea and baked it herself. We can’t confirm that, but we can say confidently that cherry pie is more than worthy of all the praise. While it’s only the 5th most popular pie in the States, its American roots are as storied as its British counterpart. George Washington reportedly cut down his dad’s cherry tree just to bake one, for goodness’ sake! Celebrate National Cherry Pie Day with a delicious slice of history.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
What's Your Favorite Ice Cream For Breakfast? It's Okay, We Know You've Tried It.
Welcome to February 6th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a kid’s dream come true and saying no to the fork.
Anna: Did you ever have ice cream for breakfast?
Marlo: Mmmmm maybe.
Anna: It’s okay to admit it Marlo. Today is Ice Cream For Breakfast Day and I will confess I have tried this before and love it! It all started when I made a bowl of oatmeal and didn’t have any milk to pour over it. I had some premium vanilla ice cream in the freezer and tried a scoop on the hot oatmeal and yep, you guessed it - perfect substitute. After that I found ice cream flavors that just sound like breakfast, like Chunky Monkey, which is banana ice cream, walnuts and chocolate. That sounds like breakfast, hey? What ice cream would you eat for breakfast?
Marlo: Ummmm, vanilla.
Anna: Oh, that’s right you only like vanilla ice cream. Okay, well sneak some onto your oatmeal if you wanna play it safe.
Fans of Asian cuisine may have noticed that chopsticks from Korea are different from chopsticks found in other Asian countries. Rather than bamboo or wood, Korean chopsticks are made from metal. According to one legend, this began around the year 500 AD when the royal family switched from wood to silver utensils. If their food had been poisoned, the silver would change color and alert them to the danger. Metal chopsticks then became commonplace in homes across the entire country, though most people used steel rather than silver. Metal is perfect for picking up meat from Korean BBQ grills and is much easier to clean. Celebrate National Chopstick Day with takeout from your favorite Asian restaurant and say no to the fork.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
Would You Be Willing To Do Your Job In The Face Of A Hurricane?
Welcome to February 5th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate respect for impossible jobs and illustrious contributions.
Meteorologists don’t get much respect. Most of the time when people watch the weather report, they want to know if they’re going to need an umbrella or a warm coat. And then they’ll spend the rest of the day complaining about how the meteorologist got it wrong. But one weatherperson has a different reputation. When Jim Cantore of the Weather Channel comes to report in your town, batten down the hatches. Starting with Hurricane Andrew in 1992, he’s reported on over 100 hurricanes. Jim stands out in the wind and rain as long as conditions permit in order to give viewers an accurate account of what’s happening with any given storm. On National Weatherperson’s Day, we celebrate the men and women all across the world who give us a heads up on what’s overhead. And if they get it wrong, you’ll have something to talk about at the water cooler.
James West was born in 1931 in Prince Edward County, Virginia. As a boy, he loved taking things apart and after an accident involving a radio, he discovered a curiosity for electricity. This led West to obtaining a degree in physics and a position with Bell Laboratories as an inventor. By 1968 his inexpensive, highly sensitive compact microphone was in mass production and the technology is still used in 90 percent of today’s microphones as well as telephones and tape recorders. James West was inducted into the Inventors Hall of Fame in 1999 and today holds over 250 patents for his inventions. He is 89 years old and is currently a professor at Johns Hopkins University. During Black History Month we celebrate the men and women who continue to inspire us with their amazing achievements.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
Are You A Glass Half Full Person? This Is Your Lucky Day!
Welcome to February 4th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate unbeatable optimism and a job well done.
When it comes to looking on the bright side, some people seem plum crazy. Take Joe Namath, the young hotshot Quarterback for the New York Jets. In 1969, his team was about to play the heavily favored Baltimore Colts for the NFL championship. In the week leading up to the game, Namath was giving an interview and someone shouted out “The Colts are going to kick your butts.” Without hesitation, Joe shot back “Hey, I got news for you. We’re going to win Sunday, I’ll guarantee you.” His own head coach couldn’t believe what he’d just heard and scolded Namath for shooting off his big mouth. But Namath turned out to be right, leading his team to the championship and one of the biggest upsets in sports history. On Optimist Day, we celebrate the dreamers, the believers, and those who never say quit, no matter what the odds.
Benjamin Franklin once said, “Well done is better than well said.” When it comes to the United States Postal Service, which Franklin founded in 1775, mail carriers have been getting the job done for more than two centuries. We may take this service for granted or complain when it doesn’t work in our favor, but postal workers have successfully delivered letters in the trillions. And sometimes this happens in mysterious ways. Take the story of Susan Heifetz, who received not one but three letters lost since 1969. A birthday card from her mother, a letter from a boyfriend sent overseas to Vietnam and another card from her brother, arrived within one week of each other 45 years later. On National Thank A Mail Carrier Day we celebrate a job well done that happens most often come rain or shine.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
If Someone Tells You That You Play Like A Girl, Take It As A Compliment!
Welcome to February 3rd, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate playing like a girl and bid good-bye to Miss American Pie.
When Sarah Fuller wears the slogan “Play Like A Girl” on her football helmet she goes the distance to prove what it means. Fuller made history last December when she became the first woman to score points as a kicker in a “Power Five” college football game. The Power conferences are the five that feature 65 of the best football programs in the country. Women have scored points in football games in smaller conferences but never in the Power Five. Sarah has overcome injuries and made comebacks but is most proud of being a role model. The slogan “Play Like a Girl,” honors the organization that encourages girls to play sports and study science, technology, engineering and math. On National Girls and Women in Sports Day we think that says it all!
63 years ago, a plane crash claimed the lives of three of music’s brightest young stars. The Winter Dance Party tour was traveling across the Midwest, with Buddy Holly as one of the headliners. After several shows, he had grown tired of the long, cold drives via tour bus and chartered a plane for the next leg of the trip. Holly intended to travel with his 2 bandmates, Tommy Allsup and Waylon Jennings. But neither traveled with him that fateful night. Before they parted ways, Holly teased Jennings and told him, “I hope your bus freezes up again.” Jennings replied, “Well, I hope your plane crashes.” Waylon Jennings was haunted by this comment for years. On National The Day The Music Died Day, we celebrate the music of Buddy Holly, Richie Valens, and The Big Bopper and those who dance with us through this thing called life.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
How Do You Like To Serve Up Tots?
Welcome to February 2nd, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate tasty tots and a prophetic rodent.
The story of the golden, crispy nuggets of potatoes made from the cast off bits of French fries begins with two brothers in 1934. Nephi and Golden Grigg were farmers barely scraping by during the Great Depression. They made a bold decision to mortgage their home to purchase the frozen foods plant they had rented along the Oregon Idaho border. The Food Company now known as Ore-Ida began producing frozen corn, but Nephi knew the big money was in French fries. The problem was that the equipment used to cut the fries left an abundance of irregular potato bits, which were at first used to feed cattle. Nephi didn’t like throwing away profits and soon devised a way to pack the peelings into tater tots. By 1964 Ore-Ida turned an annual profit of $31 million. On National Tater Tot Day take a tasty bite of the American dream.
The most famous resident of Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, is a groundhog named Phil. For over 130 years, he’s made a public appearance on February 2nd to give us a weather forecast. When Phil speaks we all listen. But only the current president of the Groundhog Club can actually understand Phil’s secret language. Groundhogese. And Phil’s predictions are always 100 percent accurate. If his divination skills seem off, it’s because the president translated incorrectly. After the forecast is shared with the world, Phil goes home to his wife Phyllis at the Punxsutawney Town Library, where he waits for next year’s festivities. That's a pretty good gig if you ask me! On National Groundhog Day celebrate this prophetical rodent and his winter forecast or cuddle up and watch the classic Bill Murray film.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
Some Purchases Seem Like A Bargain. Others Cause Great Debates. And When They Are Really Crazy, They Inspire A Dessert!
Welcome to February 1st, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate cold blooded creatures and desserts born in a hotbed of controversy.
President Theodore Roosevelt was a lover of the natural world. When he visited Arizona in 1913, he made it a point to visit the Hopi Indian tribe in order to witness their sacred Snake Dance, something outsiders rarely get to see. This ceremony, which has been performed for centuries, is the tribe’s way of showing respect to nature in the hope of receiving ample rainfall in the coming season. The dance involves gathering snakes, both venomous and non-venomous, bathing them and draping them over men. As the men dance around, chanting, more snakes are put on their bodies. Roosevelt was awed by the ceremony and as tough as he was, he was taken aback by the site. On National Serpent Day, we celebrate these reptiles who often get a bum rap. Although we strongly recommend viewing them at a safe distance.
In 1867 there was a hot debate over the purchase of Alaska from Russia for a cool 7 million. When Secretary of State William Seward agreed to the price and Alaska became a United States territory, some referred to it as Seward’s Folly. That’s when chef Charles Ranhofer, of Delmonico’s Restaurant in New York City, whipped up a dessert to capitalize on the heated controversy. His frozen hard ice cream on a base of sponge cake covered in toasted meringue was called Alaska Florida, for its drastic temperature contrast. It also came at a whopping price that would equal about 40 dollars today. This strategy worked and his dessert is still on Delmonico’s menu. On National Baked Alaska Day, we enjoy a sweet bite of Seward’s success.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day.
Have You Ever Had Dessert For Breakfast? That's Just The Beginning Of Celebrating This Day!
Welcome to January 31st, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate our heart’s desire and backwards thinking.
Anna: If you are a person that leads with your heart, today is your day to fill it with art.
Marlo: Hey that sounds like poetry!
Anna: That’s right! Everything that touches our senses from poetry to painting, music to dance and films can be considered art and even some other things that may surprise you. Have you ever heard of anamorphosis art?
Marlo: Anna who?
Anna: Anamorphosis is a technique for drawing a picture that can only be viewed from a certain angle. Leonard da Vinci did drawings that could only be seen in the reflection of a mirror and today artists play around with sidewalk art that mimics incredible 3D vistas.
Marlo: I like making art out of my 3D printer.
Anna: That counts, Marlo. Whatever inspires your heart.
Urban legends say that if you play certain records backwards you’ll hear scary messages. But not everything that goes in reverse is a bad thing. On National Backward Day consider having dessert for breakfast. Wear your clothes backwards or write from right to left. Experts agree that mixing things up leads to creativity and innovative thinking. It certainly worked for Leonardo da Vinci, who even wrote his letters backwards. Some say he did this to hide controversial ideas about science from the Church. Others say it prevented his best ideas from being stolen. And perhaps the most practical reason is that it kept him from smudging the ink as he wrote. Whatever your reasons for trying things in reverse, on National Backward Day don’t forget to use your blinkers.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Did You Know That Tea Is The Number One Drink In The World After Water?
Welcome to January 30th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate elevated bread and a happy accident.
You probably think croissants were invented by a Frenchman, but surprisingly the baker who came up with these light, buttery rolls was an Austrian in Paris. In the early 1800s August Zang took an existing bread recipe and added layers of butter to the dough through a process called lamination. This involves folding and pressing butter into the dough over and over again and the crisp, flaky results are well worth it! His Boulangerie Viennoise put the crescent shaped wonder on the map, and on National Croissant Day we still say, “Viva la croissant!”
If something falls into your drink, you dump it out and get a new drink, right? Chinese Emperor Shennong didn’t think so. Legend tells that as the Emperor was sitting under a tree, some leaves fell into his cup of hot water. During his time, there was a decree that people must boil their water before drinking it. Being an herbalist himself, the Emperor decided to drink the happy accident and this is believed to be the origin of tea. Even more popular than coffee, tea is the second most consumed drink in the world after water. Globally, over three million tons of tea are produced each year. Today we enjoy the great variety of this soothing drink and all its healthy side effects. During National Hot Tea Month enjoy all the benefits of curling up to relax with a piping hot cuppa.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Are Chips A Go To Ingredient In Your Recipes?
Welcome to January 29th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate Big Wigs and getting our snack on.
Anna: Hey, Marlo, why are you wearing that ridiculous wig?
Marlo: What are you talking about? This is my natural hair, I’m just styling it differently.
Anna: And is purple your natural color?
Marlo: It’s National Big Wig Day, Anna. In honor of the Look Good Feel Better Campaign, folks across the country host a party to raise money for cancer patients who could use a boost with locks of their own.
Anna: I’ve heard about that! People get their inner Big Wig on and take on the role of philanthropist. There are charity events around the country that raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for the cancer charity of their choice.
Marlo: I think I’m rocking purple hair by the way.
Anna: I think so too, Marlo.
We Americans love our crunchy snacks. Thanks to Elmer Doolin, this includes corn chips and a household name that began on a road trip. In 1932, Elmer was traveling through San Antonio, TX where he discovered a local favorite called friotes. He found a man who wanted to quit the corn chip business and when Elmer bought the recipe for only 100 dollars, he had no idea what a bargain it was. Doolin perfected them in his mothers kitchen and started selling the chips from the back of his Model T. But sales really took off when his mom created a recipe campaign called cooking with Fritos. This led to a partnership with Herman Lay and Fritos are now a corn chip legend. On National Corn Chip Day enjoy your favorite chips with salsa and cheese or even a recipe from the Daisy Doolin kitchen!
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
How Do You Have Fun At Work?
Welcome to January 28th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate fun at work and humming along.
Anna: You know what job sounds amazing to me? Food critic. Can you imagine taking a tour of the very best restaurants and eating to your heart’s content?
Marlo: Are you thinking about a career change?
Anna: No, no. I’m just realizing that it’s National Have Fun at Work Day and thinking that must be pretty easy when you have a job like that. Like how about movie critic? How fun would that be?
Marlo: We have fun at work don’t we?
Anna: Oh, yeah, yeah. I’m not complaining. You guys are a blast. But what about spa critic. Traveling to exotic places and getting all those relaxing services. Ahhh.
Marlo: I’m sensing a pattern here.
John: I think she’s trying to tell us something, Marlo.
Anna: Shhhh, I’m having fun at work…
In 1924 the jazz band The Mound City Blue Blowers had a big hit with their song Arkansas Blues. The lead singer William Red McKenzie, had a cool onstage personality, charming audiences wherever he performed. But the instruments he and the rest of the band played were a bit unconventional. There was a banjo, a comb, a kazoo, a suitcase, and a broom. It’s not often that a kazoo steals the spotlight from the rest of the band. Dick Slevin, the kazoo player, even had kazoo solos on a few of their records. Nowadays, this overlooked instrument has become nothing more than a kids’ toy, but for a few years back in the early days of Jazz, the kazoo was the toast of the town. On National Kazoo Day, break out one of these instruments and see what all the buzz was about.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Who Makes The Best Chocolate Cake?
Welcome to January 27th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate photogenic book shelves and a chocolate cake for everyone.
Lovers of chocolate like to go over the top and chocolate cake is no exception. There is a chocolate cake recipe from a chef in Dubai that calls for cocoa beans from Italy, organic flour from the UK, vanilla from Uganda and 23 carats gold leaf and dust. The Golden Phoenix, as it’s known, is served on a Marie Antoinette dessert trolley, whatever that is and comes at a price tag of over $1,000.00. Luckily the kind that Duncan Hines makes is more accessible and some would argue, equally delicious. I’m not trying to start an uprising here, but the point is this; you can’t go too far wrong with chocolate and cake. Ever since a doctor and a chocolate maker teamed up to grind cocoa beans in a stone mill the once exclusive ingredient became available to bakers everywhere. On National Chocolate Cake Day you don’t have to be royalty to have your cake and eat it too.
In the early 1500s, Leonardo da Vinci kept a notebook to jot down his observations about the world around him. Among other things, he discusses why fossils of fish can be found in mountains and why the moon shines so brightly. It’s full of random notes and illustrations, and it’s written in Da Vinci’s famous backwards writing. It can only be read when viewed in a mirror. This simple 18 page book, known as the Codex Lester, was bought and sold several times over the years and became one of the most expensive books in the world. In 1994, Bill Gates bought it for just under 31 million dollars. While the books on our shelf may not be nearly as valuable, we all have our favorites. On Library Shelfie Day, share your own love of books by taking a selfie in front of your prized editions.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
What Is Your Secret To A Successful Marriage?
Welcome to January 26th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate going the distance and the drinking of the green.
Ralph and Dorothy Kohler got married in their teens and people told them it would never last. But the couple proved them wrong. Really wrong. In 2020, they celebrated their 85th wedding anniversary, making them the record holders for longest marriage in US history. So what’s their secret? As far as marriage goes, they simply love one another’s company. They also take time to learn about the things that make the other happy. Ralph loved skeet shooting and taught Dorothy how to do it. She took to his hobby so well that she became national champion of trap shooting in the 1950s. And when it comes to arguments, they say that it’s best to just agree with the other person, let them think they won and walk away. On National Spouses Day, celebrate the person in your life who’s signed on to be your partner through thick and thin…even if you think their hobbies are weird.
If you made some resolutions to be healthier this year, celebrate the small steps that make it even easier by going for the green. Green juice has never been tastier and one convenient bottle can hold the nutritional value of several servings of fruits and veggies. While juice has been around for thousands of years, the crazes of the last century have produced some amazing results. Norman Walker, who invented the first modern juicer in the 1930s lived to be 99 years old. Jack LaLanne who drank juice faithfully lived to be 96. And evidence suggests that it’s never too late to turn over a new leaf, especially if your juice contains more green veggies than fruit. Give yourself the green light to make small healthy changes that are easy to stick with on National Green Juice Day!
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Welcome to January 25th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate annoying opposites and that satisfying snap!
Marlo: Good morning. I’m Anna Devere.
Anna: And I’m Marlo Anderson.
John: And I’m confused. What are you two talking about?
Marlo: It’s Opposite Day, so we’re switching everything around.
John: Okay. Got it. Can we take that from the top, Marlo?
Anna: Sure. Let’s do it.
John: Anna…
Marlo: Yes?
John: [sighs] Just go back to the beginning. Start whenever you’re ready.
[silence]
John: I said you can start.
Anna: Today that means stop.
John: Okay. I get it. It’s National Opposite Day. Bye, everyone.
Anna and Marlo: Hello!
Anyone who’s ever held a piece of bubble wrap can hardly resist the urge to start popping it. We all know it was made for wrapping things and not as a toy, right? Actually, that’s not true. When Alfred Fielding and his business partner invented what we know today as bubble wrap, they were creating 3 dimensional, plastic wallpaper. But when that idea didn’t work out, they began marketing their invention as a way to protect items during a move. The new strategy paid off big time when IBM became their first client, buying bubble wrap to ship their latest computer. After scientists unwrapped the new computers, we can only assume that they began popping the bubbles. On National Bubble Wrap Day, we celebrate an innovation in packaging that doubles as a fun stress reliever.
I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
What's Your Favorite Peanut Butter: Chunky Or Smooth? Or How About Diamond Studded?
Welcome to January 24th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate inventions that are cracking and diamonds in the roughs.
While beer drinkers enjoy both draft and bottled varieties, Beer Can Appreciation Day recognizes the innovation that brought beer in cans to market in 1935. The Krueger Brewing Company of Richmond, VA took a chance on the technology of the American Can Company and began selling beer just weeks before the repeal of Prohibition. Weighing in at 4 ounces, the hefty steel cans were opened with a church key. Since then pull tabs and stay tabs both revolutionized the beer drinker’s experience. On Beer Can Appreciation Day enjoy the crisp sound of cracking open your favorite brew.
In 2014, a group of scientists in Germany ran some experiments to help them better understand the Earth’s mantle, the layer between the crust and the core. They discovered that intense pressure will pull oxygen out of carbon dioxide, which can create diamonds. You’re probably thinking, “Who cares about this science mumbo jumbo?” Well, they tested this on a lot of different everyday objects and there was only one that created a diamond. Peanut butter. Now don’t get too excited. It’s not as if you’re going to open a jar of Skippy and find a tennis bracelet, but maybe you can feel a bit more sophisticated when you bite into that Peanut Butter and Jelly at lunch. On National Peanut Butter Day enjoy this diamond in the rough that’s also delicious on toast.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
What Is Your Favorite Kind Of Pie?
Welcome to January 23rd, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate handy work and hometown flavor.
Before the invention of the printing press, the only way to get a copy of a book was to duplicate it by hand. During the Middle Ages, monks worked for hours at a time to reproduce the Bible, history books, and countless other volumes that might have been lost over time. Rooms called Scriptoriums were set up with rows and rows of desks, where they worked in a production line to complete text after text. This massive undertaking undoubtedly caused more than its fair share of cramped hands. So think of that the next time you gripe about taking meeting notes by hand. On National Handwriting Day, we celebrate the lost art of writing longhand and how it might have saved Western learning.
Our feelings about pie are tied to the places we call home. If you’re from England this means the savory kind with some kind of stewed meat and spices, but in America pie is dessert. And it’s not just one of those “driving on the wrong side of the street” differences. When Mark Twain wrote A Tramp Abroad after traveling through Europe, he made a list of all the foods he would eat upon returning to his home in America: apple pie, peach pie, pumpkin pie, and squash pie. And to drive the point home, his recipe for English pie went as follows: “Construct a bullet proof dough, fill with stewed dried apples aggravated with cloves, then solder on the lid and set in a safe place till it petrifies. Serve cold at breakfast and invite your enemy.” Things have certainly improved since 1880, but one thing is sure, on National Pie Day folks will celebrate with their own flavor of home.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
There's No Time Like The Present To Have Fun With Your Kids!
Welcome to January 22nd, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate natural blondes and having fun with our kids.
If you believe that brownies have all the fun, then make room on your plate for the “blondie.” It turns out that the first brownies didn’t have cocoa at all but got their color from molasses. When chocolate became the norm in the early 1900s they told these bars apart by calling the original the blondie. Confusing, we know, but today you can spot a blondie by its light brown sugar color. It has all the caramel sweetness of a chocolate chip cookie with the soft fudgy texture of a bar. On National Blonde Brownie Day add a scoop of ice cream, some toffee and nuts for the ultimate sweet tooth satisfaction.
Charles Swindoll said that each day of our lives we make deposits in the memory banks of our children. Today is the day to make that investment count by letting our kids know how much we love them. Celebration of Life Day is about appreciating the now, whether it’s a walk in the park together, coloring or reading a book. And if you wanna score extra brownie points, why not let them choose the activity? Kids grow up much faster than we can imagine. And while your children may be racing towards adulthood, they are never too old to appreciate your attention and encouragement. This day is for everyone who loves a youngster, be they parents, grandparents, or uncles and aunts. It’s a gentle reminder that the best thing you can give your children is time.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Have You Heard Of Squirrel Girl? Don't Underestimate the Power Of The Squirrel.
Welcome to January 21st, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the small and mighty that help us win the day.
Because of all the Marvel movies and TV shows, you probably think that you know your superheroes pretty well. But here’s one I bet you haven’t heard of: Squirrel Girl. Seriously…she’s a real character. Doreen Green is just your ordinary teenage girl other than the fact that she has a long furry tail, buck teeth, and can communicate with squirrels. Surprisingly, she and her squirrel sidekick Tippy Toe are more than a match for most supervillains. She once saved Iron Man from the powerful Doctor Doom by summoning hordes of squirrels to swarm over the bad guy. On Squirrel Appreciation Day, celebrate these fuzzy little acrobats and the amazing powers they hold.
It’s a gorgeous day and you’ve decided to summit a challenging peak. After hours of pushing ahead through blisters and muscle cramps your senses are rewarded with a breathtaking view. In that moment it was worth all the energy you spent but the only problem is - you’re spent! Granola bars to the rescue. Hikers and sports enthusiasts know that these easy to pack snacks are filled with whole grains, fruit, nuts and seeds, that offer a burst of energy without all the junk found in candy bars. If we’re being honest, there are plenty of granola bars that don’t pass for health food and if it matters to you, then check the labels. But if your active lifestyle requires meals on the go, then celebrate convenience on National Granola Bar Day and take in some gorgeous new heights.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Who Is Your Favorite DJ?
Welcome to January 20th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate iconic radio voices and lovers of cheese.
On July 4th, 1970, a syndicated radio show made its debut with little fanfare. Appearing on only 7 stations, the show spotlighted the best-selling songs of each week. It wasn’t expected to do well, however, because radio was focusing on rock albums at the time. But the show became a huge success and its host, Casey Kasem, became a star. If you grew up in the 1980s then Kasem’s name will remind you of “Long-Distance Dedications.” But you’ve probably heard him somewhere else too. Casey provided the voice for Shaggy in the Scooby-Doo cartoon, which oddly enough, started in 1969, the year before his radio show hit the airwaves. On National Disc Jockey Day, we celebrate the iconic voices that share music with the world.
If you’re a cheese lover then you won’t be surprised to learn there are 18 other cheese related holidays. But this one has your name all over it. For people who don’t understand all the fuss, here’s a clue. Science has determined that dairy proteins contain opiate particles that trigger our bodies to want more. Advertisers know that people are either “cheese enhancers,” people who prefer just a sprinkle and people who are salivating just thinking about it. These “cravers” are gobsmacked by ads for stuffed crust pizza, grilled cheese sandwiches oozing with extra cheddar and lasagna piled high with melting mozzarella. I’m not saying which one I am, but my stomach may or may not have just growled. On National Cheese Lover's Day it’s okay to get carried away in your cheesy obsession.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Can You Imagine The Movies Without Popcorn? Believe It Or Not One Guy Took A Big Chance To Put Popcorn Machines In His Theatres.
Welcome to January 19th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate food that cooks itself and a snack with celebrity status.
In 1800s Lithuania, Jewish families would put food in pots each Friday before sundown, then take them to the bakeries in town. Because the Sabbath prohibited actively cooking anything, Jewish people used the ovens, which were still hot, to slowly cook the food for them overnight. And on Saturday morning, they’d have a fully prepared stew. This old idea was brought into the modern era in 1971 when Rival produced the crock pot. In the first year of its release, the company logged $2 million in sales. By 1975, that number rose to almost $95 million. Since then, it’s become a fixture in households around the world. During National Slow Cooker Month, enjoy the convenience of a hot home-cooked meal that’s ready for you when you get home.
Early Spanish explorers were fascinated by the small white flower that would burst from a heated kernel of corn, but it wasn’t until the late 1800s that popcorn took off. That’s when Candy store owner, Charles Cretors, developed a steam machine for popping corn. He sold the snack from horse drawn wagons in the streets of Chicago, and around this time a new confection was popping up. The 1908 anthem Take Me Out To The Ballgame knocked Cracker Jacks into the stratosphere. Then in 1938, Glen Dickson decided to take a gamble on installing the expensive machine in his movie theatres, and popcorn became a home run. National Day Calendar and National Popcorn Day will forever be linked as January 19th also marks our 8th anniversary of bringing you the National Days.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Did You Know That This Nobel Peace Prize Winner Shared His Prize Money With Other Organizations?
Welcome to January 18th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate having a way with words and a dream that lives on today.
You may not immediately recognize the name Peter Mark Roget, but chances are you’ve read his book. Or at least parts of it. In 1852, he published his Thesaurus of English Words and Phrases, which is still in use today. Over the years, Roget’s publication has been a lifesaver for writers trying to avoid overusing the same words. And oddly enough, the word “thesaurus” is derived from the Greek word for “treasure.” Others have published thesauri over the years, but on National Thesaurus Day we celebrate the original—Mr. Roget’s book. Wait. Maybe that should say volume. Or does tome sound better? Text. Definitely text.
Martin Luther King Jr. was once called the apostle of nonviolence by President Johnson, for his commitment to using civil disobedience throughout his legendary service. As a clergyman, activist and leader of the civil rights movement, Dr. King is perhaps best known for his “I Have A Dream.” Hundreds of streets throughout our country still bear the name of this Nobel Peace Prize winner. King chose to share that prize money with several organizations including the Gandhi Society for Human Rights. For as he said in his most famous speech, “We cannot walk alone.” On Martin Luther King Jr. Day we honor the unifying spirit of a man whose voice still echoes that dream today.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Do You Know Where The Phrase "Real McCoy" Comes From? Hint: It Has To Do With Bootlegging.
Welcome to January 17th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a better batter and unmasking the real McCoy.
Hot buttered rum has been around since long before the American Revolution but with rum being one fifth of the colony’s economy at the time, this was the drink of choice. It is said that people were miserly with offering their tea, but almost every social occasion included breaking out the rum, and many of the early Colonists had a favorite recipe for spicing things up. But when tiki bar owner Trader Vic pointed out how off putting it was to see globs of butter on his customers’ upper lip he offered a solution. His drink included a recipe for a batter of whipped butter, sugar with spices that melted pleasingly in the hot drink. On National Hot Buttered Rum Day enjoy a bit of better batter in your buttered rum. And if you can’t say this fast five times you know you’ve had too much.
Before Prohibition, Bill McCoy used to build yachts for people like the Carnegies and Vanderbilts. But once alcohol became illegal, he moved into another business. Smuggling. He built himself a ship with a motor fast enough to outrun the Coast Guard and with plenty of storage for carrying liquor into the United States. It even had a hidden machine gun just in case he needed to get out of trouble. A lot of the alcohol being served at the time was homemade and not very good. But if you were lucky enough to get your hands on some of the genuine alcohol that Bill smuggled in, then you knew you had the Real McCoy. Which is where we got the phrase. National Bootlegger’s Day is celebrated on the day that Prohibition went into effect. It’s also the birthday of legendary bootlegger, Al Capone.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Welcome to January 16th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate philosophy and a food that helps us slow down.
According to some philosophers, there is no such thing as nothing. With the very idea of thinking of the concept of nothingness, you’re proving that it doesn’t exist. That may sound like a big concept, but I think we can all relate. In the midst of our hectic lives, there’s almost no time for nothing. But the truth is we need to take a step back and relax— and basically, do nothing. Turn off your phone, stay away from social media, take a nap. Embrace the nothingness. It’s not often that you can get away with it, but on National Nothing Day, you’ve got the perfect excuse. When someone asks you what you’re doing, feel free to tell them to buzz off because you’re busy doing nothing. Which is actually something. Kinda.
Some say that the secret to delicious soup is letting the ingredients simmer for a long time. But how about a recipe that's been simmering for 45 years? On a busy street in Bangkok, one soup pot has been tended by three generations of cooks, who stir and add ingredients to it every single day. The flavor of this Beef Noodle soup is incomparable and those who have tried it are devoted fans. About 150 pounds of beef are used to make the soup each day. And each night a portion of it is placed in a separate pot to simmer while the main 5 foot pot is washed. Not all recipes take 45 years, and we bet that Mom’s chicken noodle tastes just as good to you. During National Soup Month simmer up your own favorite recipe for a bowl of warm comfort.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Welcome to January 15th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate carb fever and "mad hattery. "
The recipe for making bagels was once a closely guarded secret. Jewish immigrants in New York City had brought this baked good to America in the early 1900s. They formed a union to keep their tradition to themselves and to keep jobs within their community. Only the sons of members were offered membership, and meetings were conducted only in Yiddish. As crazy as it may sound today, this bagel union was extremely powerful. But they only made bagels, you’re thinking. Well, when workers went on strike in the 1950s, all but 2 bagel bakeries in Manhattan had to close, leading to what was called a Bagel Famine. And the sales of lox dropped by over 50%. On National Bagel Day, we celebrate the love for chewy delicious bagels and the fact that you can find them almost anywhere today.
Hats have been worn throughout the ages and while they are practical for warmth and protection, sometimes they define an event. Think Kentucky Derby. It is said that the hats people wear are as important as the race itself, and for this we can thank Col Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr. When he founded the event in 1875, Clark wanted to minimize the dangerous and immoral reputation of the racetrack. The story goes that he loaded up a wagon full of high society women, who went door to door telling their friends, “We’re going to have a picnic at the racetrack.” And it worked! The wealthy class poured into the stadium in their finest, as a place to see and be seen. On National Hat Day, sport your own chapeau and enjoy getting noticed for your personal style.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Did You Know That We Nearly Missed The Deadline To Bring The American Revolution To A Close?
Welcome to January 14th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate stories in the nick of time and poseable pets.
The official founding of the United States nearly didn’t happen because people couldn’t show up on time. The United States colonies signed the Treaty of Paris to end the war with England on September 3, 1783. They were then given 6 months to ratify the agreement and send it back to England to make it official. However, the ocean voyage took about 2 months, so the Continental Congress needed to vote on the treaty by January at the latest. Even though they were supposed to be there in November, not enough delegates showed up. If Richard Beresford of South Carolina hadn’t left his sickbed to show up to vote, the whole war could have been for nothing. National Ratification Day is a time to celebrate one of America’s lesser-known holidays and one man who knew how to be fashionably late.
Part of the fun of owning a pet is dressing them up now again. For maximum fun, we recommend a few tips to make sure your pets shine. First and foremost, their happiness counts. If your pet is having a major meltdown, it's time to call it quits. Not every species enjoys wearing tutus and tiaras, no matter how adorable it seems. Choose outfits that are comfortable as well as cute. If your cat isn’t ready for the catwalk they will definitely let you know. On National Dress Up Your Pet Day make your photo shoot fun for everyone and they’re bound to steal the show.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Did You Know That Chicken Curry Has An Alias?
Welcome to January 12th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate exotic birds and playing with your food.
Country Captain is a chicken curry dish with a long association to the American South. But just when did this marriage of exotic spices and humble chicken take place? We know that Britain’s longtime presence in India gave them a taste for curry’s spicy mix of cumin, coriander, ginger garlic and turmeric. Country Captain was served aboard British trading ships, with the word “country” referring to things indigenous to India. This food sailed west to the ports of Charleston and Savannah and eventually became a favorite of Franklin D. Roosevelt and General George Patton. It was even added to the United States Army’s Field Ration Menu because Patton loved it so much. On National Curry Chicken Day we celebrate
the happy union that lasted for ages.
During the Middle Ages, marzipan made its way from the Middle East to Europe, where it was sold in pharmacies. Doctors even recommended it for treating physical and mental ailments. Marzipan became a favorite amongst the royalty, who couldn’t resist this candylike cure. What made it so appealing was that the paste made from almonds, sugar and water was easy to mold and could be used for decorating desserts. Today marzipan is baked into breads and shaped into everything from fruits and flowers to animals. If you received a marzipan pig on New Year’s Day, count yourself lucky for this omen of good fortune. On National Marzipan Day we celebrate the treat that lets you play with your food.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
What New Hobby Have You Wanted To Try? This Is Your Lucky Month!
Welcome to January 11th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate cleaning up and having more fun.
Anna: Marlo, what’s going on with your desk?
Marlo: What are you talking about?
Anna: I mean, there are so many papers and tchatchkes that I can’t even see the desktop. Do you really need that many Star Trek bobbleheads?
Marlo: Yes I do. And I’m offended that you even have to ask.
Anna: Ok what about all these business cards?
Marlo: Don’t touch that stack!
Anna: You really need to clear this off. No wonder you couldn’t find our meeting notes the other day.
Marlo: I have a system.
Anna: Ok, well, it’s National Clean Off Your Desk Day, so it’s a great time to start fresh and come up with a new system.
Marlo: Fine.
Anna: This newspaper is from 2006.
Marlo: I have a system!
They say it takes at least 66 days to form a new habit, and if your resolve is already fading, have no fear. You may just need a better goal. January is National Hobby Month and if your goals have been about denial, why not try some permission instead. That’s right! Permission granted to explore what brings you a little bit of joy each day. If you’ve never thought about hobbies as self care, consider this, indulging in something you love to do isn’t just for your own good, it’s good for those around you too. With this in mind, it’s time to try something new. Whether it’s painting, photography, exercising or crafting, making fun activities part of your daily routine will boost your mood and your overall well being. And that’s a goal you’re bound to keep.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
This Dish Was Named For The Richest Man Of His Time.
Welcome to January 10th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the best day of the week and shelling out the green.
National Sunday Supper Day invites you to celebrate the great tradition of breaking bread together. Sundays are usually lazy days, especially in winter, so why not make the most of it? Take time for “slow food” that gives you room to catch up on what’s been going on during the week. The menu is not as important as spending time together, even if it’s to laugh about the shows you’ve been bingeing lately. And if you’ve reached the bottom of the barrel on tv entertainment, there are plenty of good stories from the family archives. You may even find more intrigue and better plotlines. On National Sunday Supper Day start a new family tradition that may just become a way of life.
What’s in a name? When it comes to oysters, this dish was named for the richest man of the day, John D. Rockefeller. The New Orleans restaurant, Antoine's began serving Oysters Rockefeller in 1889 and the recipe became a well guarded secret. Other chefs could only guess at what made it so delicious, with garlic, butter and breadcrumbs being common ingredients. The mystery remains in what made it green? Some say it’s parsley or spinach, which was a nod to Rockefeller’s wealth. While the restaurant doesn’t give away their recipe, they do keep track of the number of orders they’ve served, which to date is more than three and a half million. On National Oysters Rockefeller Day you don’t have to shell out a lot of clams to get that authentic, Antoine’s taste.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Did You Know That Lightening is Basically Static Electricity?
Welcome to January 9th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate shocking effects and reaching new heights.
Marlo, did you ever rub your feet on the carpet and then zap someone? Then you already know the magic of static electricity! When the positive and negative charges of an atom are out of balance and have nowhere to go they build up and stay static in one place, until they are released. A spark of static electricity can measure thousands of volts, but has very little current and only lasts for a short period of time. Lightening is a powerful and dangerous example of static electricity and while it has the power to knock over trees it’s also relatively harmless. About 70 percent of people struck by lightning survive. On National Static Electricity Day celebrate this force of nature that’s useful in photocopiers and printers and also good for annoying your friends.
The first manned balloon flight in America took place on January 9, 1793. Jean Pierre Blanchard, ascended to a height of nearly 6,000 feet in a hydrogen filled balloon and then made a successful landing in New Jersey. Almost 200 years later, another aeronaut made a spectacular, but less famous flight in California. Larry Walters attached 42 weather balloons to an aluminum lawn chair, pumped them full of helium and sailed off into the air. Unfortunately, he had not planned out his flight and soon found himself 16,000 feet above the ground. He stayed there for nearly 2 hours before he got cold and descended by popping balloons with a pellet gun. As we celebrate National Balloon Ascension Day, take a balloon ride and soar among the clouds, but please leave the flying to the professionals.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Welcome to January 8th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the frothy side of life and a break from tradition.
We all need a well deserved break now again and a tub filled with bubbles may be just the thing. But did you know the man behind Mr. Bubble was a well known workaholic? Harold Schafer from Stanton, North Dakota spent his early days trying just about everything for work from candling eggs, to shoveling snow but found his niche in sales. In 1942 he started the Gold Seal Company in his basement where he typed his own labels for floor wax. With a modest profit he continued to develop products that eventually landed national attention, including Mr. Bubble in 1961. It’s still the number one brand of bath products today, though Mr. Schafer threw in the towel in 1986 and spent the rest of his days as a beloved philanthropist. On National Bubble Bath Day, enjoy a break from the every day grind.
Fans of English toffee may be surprised to learn that the treat they’ve enjoyed all these years isn’t toffee at all. Hang on, let me explain. Most of the English toffee we eat in America is actually buttercrunch. So what’s the difference? It’s all about the ingredients. Toffee in England uses brown sugar in its recipe, but the buttercrunch we make in the United States is made with white sugar. Also, we often add nuts and other flavorings, while our British friends do not. Then why do we call this treat English toffee? Maybe it’s because it just sounds more posh. No matter which recipe you prefer, on National English Toffee Day celebrate the sweet, buttery crunch found on both sides of the pond.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Do You Know Which Bobbleheads Collectors Go Crazy For?
Welcome to January 7th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the origins of a Japanese foodie favorite and famous noggins.
You may think of tempura as a Japanese dish, but the art of batter frying first came to Japan from Portuguese missionaries. In the mid 16th century Nagasaki, Japan was a closed-port to most of the world, but the Portuguese were allowed to bring in Catholicism and with it, a food made during lent. The name tempura actually comes from the Latin quattuor anni tempora or Days of Ember when no red meat was eaten. And with fresh veggies, prawns and fish in a delicious light batter, apparently no one was missing it. The dish caught on with street vendors called yatai, and it soon became a foodie favorite. On National Tempura Day we celebrate this culinary technique that covers everything from ice cream to squid.
Bobbleheads have been around since the 18th Century. They were brought to Europe from China, where they were known as temple nodders or nodding head figures. But the bobbleheads we treasure today, first became popular in the 1960s, when sports teams began depicting their mascots and famous players. Some of the earliest were Mickey Mantle and Willie Mays. Then in 1964, the first modern bobbleheads that didn’t depict an athlete were made of the Beatles, and they’re still some of the most sought after by collectors today. Now you can find a bobblehead of just about anyone famous. On National Bobblehead Day, you can even get a custom one made of yourself, as long as you don’t let it go to your head.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Did You Know That Most Of The Technology We Enjoy Today Had It's Critics? Yep, Even Trains, Planes and Automobiles Were Not To Be Trusted!
Welcome to January 6th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate staying cozy and talking tech.
If you think you’re cold this winter, try living in Antarctica. In winter, the wind chills can plunge to minus 76°F. One of the only animals who can survive in this climate is the Emperor Penguin and they do it by cuddling together. Their system is simple; one penguin stands in place, surrounded by its friends who protect it from the cold wind. Then, that penguin steps out and another takes its turn in the warm center of the circle. They keep rotating until everyone gets a chance to be nice and cozy. On National Cuddle Up Day snuggle up with someone you love, and be glad it doesn’t take a village to stay warm.
Everything from the invention of the wheel to your smartphone can be considered technology. History is shaped by these gadgets and achievements, and no matter how far into the future you daydream, if you can imagine it, someone will create it. I myself have ridden in flying cars, toyed around with drones and seen countless apps that make everyday life better. But there are still some who consider technology dangerous. When you put this in context, it’s not uncommon for people to be skeptical of new inventions. Everything from railroads to cars to electricity were protested and derided back in their day. On National Technology Day we celebrate the wonders that advance our world and keep us a buzz with food for thought.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Do You Know The Screenwriter Who Wrote Your Favorite Movie?
Welcome to January 5th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate sweet success and the wizards of words.
The first recipes for whipped cream date back to 1549 when they were already calling it “snow milk.” These early chefs were likely whipped after an hour of beating the cream with a willow branch, a technique that lasted for the next few centuries, until a clothing salesman from St. Louis changed all of that. During WWII when cream was rationed, Aaron “Bunny” Lapin began pedaling Sta-Whip, a substitute made of light cream and vegetable oil. Then in 1946 Crown Cork and Seal Company made the first seamless aerosol canister and Lapin put Sta-Whip on the map. With a shiny, red lithographed can, a new product name and an army of milkmen to deliver it, Reddi-wip made Lapin a fortune in only a few short years. On National Whipped Cream Day pile on a little extra and sing happy birthday to Bunny Lapin, if you’re so inclined.
Alfred Hitchcock once said, “To make a good film, you need three things, the script, the script, and the script.” Without stories, we wouldn’t have TV or movies. Even if a book is used as the basis for a film, a screenwriter still needs to adapt the storyline so it works on the big screen. And unless you sit through the credits, you probably won’t know who wrote the screenplays for your favorite blockbusters. This is your chance to start noticing these architects of every great story and juicy role. On National Screenwriters Day take time to find out who is responsible for making your favorite shows especially entertaining.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
What's Your Favorite Way To Top Spaghetti?
Welcome to January 4th, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate noodling around and nerding out. More after the break.
On top of spaghetti all covered with cheese was first sung by folk singer Tom Glazer in 1963, but on National Spaghetti Day, we invite you to pick the sauce or optional meatballs, as this day is all about the noodles! The long, thin cylindrical pasta gets its name from the Italian word spaghetto, or the diminutive of spago, meaning “thin string” or “twine.” But it’s not Italy’s favorite pasta as you might think. That distinction goes to Americans who hold the world record for largest bowl of spaghetti: a California swimming pool filled with 13,000 pounds. Enough spaghetti is sold each year in the United States to circle the globe 9 times. And while we make up folk songs and ways to play with our food, on National Spaghetti Day we are also slurping it up with pleasure.
Who was the only unmarried president of the United States? The answer in a bit. If you’ve ever attended quiz night at a local pub, you know how exciting trivia can be. There’s a thrill that comes from knowing that a seemingly useless piece of information holds the key to winning a game. Even in the early days of television, trivia was all the rage. Quiz shows were so popular that when news broke about cheating on the shows, it became national news and Congress held hearings to get to the bottom of things. And now for the answer to today’s trivia question: James Buchanan, our 16th president. Not only was he unmarried, he’s also the only president to have been born in Pennsylvania. Celebrate National Trivia Day being a know-it-all by sharing this, or any other random facts.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Are You Ready To Launch Certain Holiday Leftovers?
Welcome to January 3rd, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a final fling and the last straw.
One of the best-selling foods during the holiday season is fruitcake. It’s also one of the most disliked and chances are good, this eyesore is still staring you in the face. The people of Manitou Springs, Colorado have a solution. For the last 20 years they’ve hosted an event that gives folks a chance to work out their seasonal frustrations by hurling this leftover into the sky. That’s right, people come from near and far to beat up on fruitcakes by flinging them either by hand, cannon, or giant slingshot. There areeven competitions to see who can propel them the farthest. The price of admission to this event is a non perishable food item which is donated to charity. Don’t worry, Aunt Ethel will understand if you launch her gift skyward on National Fruitcake Toss Day.
You’ve heard the expression, that’s the last straw! But what about the first? The very first straws were used by ancient Sumerians for drinking beer. And because the beer barrels were too large to pass around, these long, communal drinking straws had to go the distance. The next ones were made from rye grass, which made beverages taste, well, grassy! Thanks to Marvin Stone, the paper straw replaced this kind, and folks began sipping in a more appealing way. We celebrate National Drinking Straw Day on January 3rd because that’s when Marvin received his patent in 1888. But with more than 500 million plastic straws going to waste each day, some people celebrate with new and improved ways to do their part. If you see plastic as the last straw for the environment, try paper ones or reusable straws made of metal, glass or bamboo.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
What Is Your Favorite Sci-Fi Story?
Welcome to January 2nd, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate keeping your options open and brave new worlds.
Still not decided on your New Year’s resolutions? Hmmmm. it’s National Buffet Day! Not too many of those open right now. Oh, oh, oh! It’s National Cream Puff Day! I’m not actually hungry after the year 2020. Ok ok! It’s also National Personal Trainer Awareness Day and while I’m aware that I probably need some extra help sticking to a fitness goal, how in the world are people working out with one these days? Believe it or not there are some pretty affordable trainers online that make your resolutions not only possible, but doable from your own home gym. If the thought of transforming your body in privacy is appealing to you, check out your local sports club for this great option!
Jules Verne is famous for books like 20 Thousand Leagues Under The Sea and Journey to the Center of the Earth. He’s also known as the Father of Science Fiction. And his novels weren’t only exciting for his time, they also imagined technology that didn’t yet exist. Things like helicopters, submarines, space travel, and even videoconferencing! Though he probably didn’t foresee coworkers forgetting to mute themselves during a call. As a rule, science fiction blends technology with imagination, but Verne almost seems like a time traveler with the accuracy of his predictions. They say art imitates life, but in the case of Jules Verne, maybe it’s the other way around. Celebrate National Science Fiction Day with some classic sci fi books or movies and your own voyage of the imagination.
National Fruitcake Toss DayIf you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Did You Know That The New Year Used To Begin On March 1st?
Welcome to January 1st, 2021 on the National Day Calendar. Today we enjoy the sound of silence and a whole new year with reasons to celebrate.
Both as a member of The Beatles and as a solo artist, John Lennon created some of the most popular songs of the 20th Century. He also recorded one of the most obscure. On his album Unfinished Music No. 2, there’s a track titled “Two Minutes of Silence.” Here’s an excerpt: It’s exactly what it says—silent. While Lennon took it to the extreme, there is a whole genre of what’s known as Silent Recordings—tracks that are nothing but white noise or ambient sound. They’re meant to to help us refocus and enjoy the quiet moments of life. During National Silent Record Week, take some time to meditate after the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. Simply be present and enjoy a break from noise.
New Year's Day is one of the most recognized holidays around the world. Celebrated for thousands of years, the exact beginning of a new year has gone through many changes. In ancient Rome, the calendar started with Martius or March and only had ten months. January and February were added later and the twelve month Julian calendar was eventually adopted. In ancient Babylon, new year’s resolutions were about paying back debts and returning borrowed stuff and if that’s on your list, it’s a great start. As the new year begins may we follow the advice of author Tom Peters who said, “Celebrate what you want to see more of.”
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Do You Know The Lyrics To The Most Famous Song That Nobody Knows?
Welcome to December 31st, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate forgettable songs and great wines.
Tonight, we bid farewell to 2020 and at the stroke of midnight, we’ll all attempt to sing a song that few of us understand. Auld Lang Syne is sometimes referred to as “the most famous song that nobody knows,” and that’s not only because people have been drinking before they sing it. Written by Robert Burns, the phrase is Scottish and roughly translates to “days gone by.” Somewhere along the way, it was set to music and became a traditional Scottish song. So how’d it get to be associated with New Year’s Eve? For that we can thank the famous bandleader Guy Lombardo. Beginning in the 1920s, he played the song on his New Years Eve radio show, and the next 30 New Years after that. We made it! It’s New Year’s Eve. Don't let the door hit you on the way out, 2020!
Nothing says celebration like a good champagne, and while the genuine article comes only from the Champagne region of France, there are plenty of good bubbly wines from California and Italy. Prices vary widely, and if you’ve ever wondered why bottles of Dom Peringnon fetch up to $50,000 a bottle, it’s because Dom only produces wine during years when the grapes have reached top quality. That means that since they opened in 1921 they have only produced 36 vintages. If splurging at that price point is not your thing, just pop open a bottle of your favorite sparkling beverage and remember to always drink responsibly. On National Champagne Day we toast to your health and good fortune and welcome all the new opportunities to Celebrate Every Day!
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Back In The Day, Bringing Home The Bacon Was A Big Deal! Find Out Why It's Still Pretty Good.
Welcome to December 30th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the power of pork and other ordinary ingredients.
If you’ve ever made a volcano at home then you already know the magic of baking soda. Today we pay homage to this versatile chemical that puffs up cakes and polishes pans, eliminates odors in pantries and armpits. Marlo, what are you making? Are you whipping up a cake? On National Bicarbonate of Soda Day, we celebrate this powerful powder that freshens both our pets and our plants and anywhere else our pH needs neutralizing. Was that supposed to be a volcano, Marlo? Why is it red and green? Marlo: I guess you’re not supposed to use a fruitcake as a base. Anna: Baking soda also makes a good cleanser.
Most people think that the phrase “bringing home the bacon” refers to a paycheck, although actual bacon is worth cheering for as well. But it turns out that the saying goes back to 12th century England, when married men would swear before God that they had not argued with their spouse for a whole year and a day. Upon taking this oath they were rewarded with a side of bacon. The phrase then referred to men who were seen as exemplary citizens and husbands. Another story says that the phrase came about in 1906, when boxer Joe Gans got a telegram from his mother before fighting for the world lightweight championship. Her message was simply to “bring home the bacon,” which he did, though not literally. On Bacon Day we pay tribute to a food that receives a hero's welcome, no matter who brings it home.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
What's Left On Your List Of Things To Do?
Welcome to December 29th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate ticking clocks and heroes in plain sight.
Are you already watching the countdown clock to put an end to this year? Most of us are grateful that we’re rapidly approaching the end of 2020. But before we break out the party hats and noisemakers, there are still a few things that need our attention. Are there business purchases or donations that can be made that will impact our tax returns? Have we set up our health plans for next year? And did we make use of all the benefits we had for 2020? If there’s still money in a Flex Spending account, now’s the time to purchase that cool new pair of glasses or get our teeth checked. The clock is literally ticking, so let’s make the most of Tick Tock Day.
We all know a superhero when we see one. Clark Kent, Peter Parker, Bruce Wayne and Tony Stark may be hiding in plain sight, but the minute they don their disguises, we know that help is on its way. But how many real live heroes surround us every day? They don’t have to leap tall buildings in order to make an extraordinary contribution. How many times has your life been affected by a teacher, doctor, first responder or mentor? It may be someone in your family or a distant relative whose choices still echo in your life today. Heroism is in the eye of the beholder, but on National Hero Day, take time to acknowledge the people who have made a difference to you.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Do You Know What The Highest Payout For A Single Poker Tournament Was? Makes You Wanna Practice Your Bluffing!
Welcome to December 28th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the illustrious beginnings of our favorite pastimes.
A standard pack of cards may be used for playing a variety of games, some of which are played for money. It’s said that the game of poker, which originated in Louisiana is a derivative of the game of dominos which dates back a few thousand years. What’s common to both games is the art of bluffing. Even the best poker players in the world only have a 5 percent advantage over other players and thus bluffing is what makes the game most interesting. The earliest games like Texas Hold’em were played for gold nuggets or dust and while it's hard to calculate the winnings of those hands, the most lucrative tournament in modern times was won by Antonio Esfandari who took home a record $18.35 million. On National Card Playing Day you may wanna bone up on your bluffing.
We all love cheering on our favorite movies at the award shows. But how often have you paid attention to the category of short films? When you watch the Academy Awards, are you tempted to go grab some popcorn as they announce the winners in this category? Then perhaps you'll be interested to know that we owe a huge thanks to a short film called “Workers Leaving the Lumiere Factory,” which made its debut in 1895 at the Grand Cafe in Paris. The movie was only a few minutes long and showed workers going home at the end of their shift. The 10 people in the audience that day became the first ever to view a motion picture in a theater and the rest, as they say, is history. On National Short Film Day, we celebrate this one small clip and the giant leap forward for the movie making industry.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Do You Have A Few Unwanted Items Lying Around After The Holidays? One Of Them May Be A Tax Donation.
Welcome to December 27th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate gaudy cakes and a new life for old jalopies.
More charitable donations are made in December than in any other month. Yes, it’s probably because people need a tax deduction, but it also comes at a time of the year when some folks need help the most. Even if money is tight, you can still make a difference by donating an old or unused vehicle during National Car Donation Month. The car doesn’t even have to run and the charities make it as simple as possible for you to donate. And if you don’t have a car to give away, you can still help to raise awareness of this charitable act. Spread the word on Facebook and Instagram. And if your neighbor still doesn’t take the hint, you can etch “Donate Me” in the dirt on the windshield of his old jalopy.
This time of year our love for goodies may be fading, but one treat is still alive and celebrating, the fruitcake. That’s because they are built to last. In the early 1700s these dense cakes were baked during harvest time and loaded with nuts and fruits. But they were saved until the following year as a ritual for ensuring the next season’s bounty. Fruitcakes also had quite a reputation for being sinfully rich. Queen Victoria was said to have waited a whole year after receiving one for her birthday before eating it, just to show proper restraint and dignity. But if your fruitcake has become a holiday joke, that gets re-gifted only to get tossed, perhaps you haven’t tasted a truly delicious one. On National Fruitcake Day, make a pledge to find a good recipe next year. That way when it's the first thing you eat, people will think you’re as nutty as a fruitcake.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Did You Know That Even Bank Robbers Send Thank You Notes?
Welcome to December 26th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the flavor of the season and etiquette for everyone.
Peppermint sticks have been around for at least 200 years, but the red and white striped candy cane that we all associate with Christmas did not actually appear until 1900 and until 1921 they were all made by hand. That’s when Brasher O. Westerfield invented a machine that turned out these 5” peppermint canes. And that’s a good thing these days as we produce more than a billion every year. The Guinness World Record for the longest candy cane is 51 feet! Many folklore tales describe the symbolism behind this iconic treat, but on National Candy Cane Day, we invite you to savor the flavor and meaning of your choice.
One day in 1934, Henry Ford opened his mail and got a big surprise, a thank you note from one of America’s most infamous bank robbers. Clyde Barrow wrote to thank Ford for putting out such a quality car. Or as he put it, “For sustained speed and freedom from trouble, the Ford has got every other car beat… It don’t hurt anything to tell you what a fine car you got in the V8.” Today is a good day to surprise your family and friends with letters of your own. Thank them for their holiday gifts or their general love and support. And since handwritten messages are becoming a lost art, surprise them even more by putting pen to paper. On National Thank You Note Day, show people that you care enough to go the extra mile to acknowledge their generosity.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
How Many Christmas Puns Do You Know?
Welcome to December 25th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate holiday puns and the twists and turns of Christmas. More after the break.
Marlo: Happy A’phabet Day!
Anna: It’s pronounced “Alphabet”.
Marlo: No. A’phabet. It’s the word “alphabet,” but with no L. Get it? Noel. Like Christmas.
Anna: Ah. So it’s bad pun day?
Marlo: Yep. Today, while you’re enjoying the festivities, see how many puns you can slip into conversations.
Anna: I want to enjoy the day, not listen to puns, Marlo.
Marlo: Anna, did you know I bought my son a refrigerator for Christmas? I can’t wait to see his face light up when he opens it.
Anna: Ugh.
Marlo: Yule be sorry if you don’t attend my Christmas party this year.
Anna: You’re being a jerk, Marlo.
Marlo: It takes one to snow one.
Anna: You’re sleigh’n it.
While Christmas enjoys popularity throughout the world today, its traditions have fluctuated widely. In medieval times, the birth of Jesus Christ was a solemn observance with very little feasting or singing. The Renaissance gave rise to the gift giving, decorating and caroling we enjoy today. The traditions of tree trimming and mistletoe came from the ancient celebration of Yule, which was adopted into Roman customs along with Christianity. For this reason, early puritans banned Christmas for nearly 20 years in America. The true spirit of this holiday is alive today because of our universal love for celebration. No matter how you keep this tradition, today we wish all you a very merry Christmas.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Do You Know Who Wrote The Night Before Christmas?
Welcome to December 24th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate clearing up literary history and fogging up a holiday favorite.
T’was the night before Christmas, and all through the house… You know the rest. Most of us do. Clement Moore’s classic poem is one of the best-known literary works in American history. When he wrote it in 1822, he used the title “A Visit from St. Nicholas.” He shared it with a friend who was visiting and the friend liked it so much that they sent it to a newspaper for publication…without Moore’s permission…and without his name attached. The poem became a huge success, though no one knew Moore had written it until he included it in a book of poetry in 1844. He was known for his scholarly works, so he was reluctant to attach his name to the piece until his children urged him to do so. It’s Christmas Eve and, to quote Moore’s poem: “Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night!”
With the stockings all hung by the chimney with care, folks are free to unwind with a glass or two of eggnog. You may be scratching your head as to how this drink got its name and which came first, the egg or the nog? It turns out that alcohol was once served in carved wooden mugs called noggins. In the middle ages a drink known as posset was made with milk, spices, and alcohol and served as a cold remedy. From there the trail gets foggy with some adding eggs to the recipe and others calling it egg flip for the way it got poured between two pitchers. Because rum was known as grog here in the States, one bartender dubbed it “egg and grog.” Confusing, we know, but one thing is sure, National Eggnog Day celebrates the delicious flavor that’s been a holiday favorite much longer than pumpkin spice.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Has The Word "Humbug" Crossed Your Mind Lately?
Welcome to December 21st, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate beating cabin fever and a change of heart.
The first crossword puzzle was published in 1913 in the New York World Newspaper. Created by Arthur Wynne from Liverpool, this amusement using riddles and clues is still enjoyed by millions today. Hey, Marlo what’s a five letter word for feud? And an eight letter word for ice globe? If you need some help fighting feeling cabin fever, spend the shorter, winter days with a pastime that’s been around for more than a century on Crossword Puzzle Day.
The word humbug dates back to the 1750s when it was used to describe anything false or deceptive. Charles Dickens assigned this phrase to Ebenezer Scrooge, who scoffed at anyone who would find good cheer in a world full of poverty and misery. We all know that ghosts turned his attitude around, but perhaps it’s wise to acknowledge our frustrations, just for a moment. The holiday season can be as stressful as it is joyful, and we may find ourselves at our wits end in the midst of all the preparations. No one wants to be Ebenezer Scrooge, but sometimes we need to step back from the hustle and bustle to take time for ourselves. On Humbug Day, give yourself room to pause and reflect about what makes you crabby and what actually brings you joy. You may be surprised by your own transformation into all things bright and beautiful.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
What Is The Most Popular Hard Candy Of All Time?
Welcome to December 19th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a candy that goes the distance and a tradition that honors our heroes.
In 1949, Bill and Dorothy Harmsen founded Jolly Rancher in Golden, Colorado. They chose the name because it sounded friendly and had a bit of western flair to it. Originally, the Harmsens sold ice cream, chocolate, and candy, but because ice cream sales plummeted during the winter months, they focused their business on producing hard candies. The first flavors were grape, apple, and fire stix, but their most popular flavor—cherry—didn’t come along till years later. Today, Jolly Rancher produces the most popular hard candy of all time proving that a little perseverance can pay off big! On National Hard Candy Day, savor the long lasting sweetness of a candy that sticks with you.
In 1992 a wreath company in Harrington, Maine found themselves with a surplus of holiday wreaths and their founder, Morrill Worcester decided to donate them to Arlington cemetery, a place he had visited as a boy. As he laid the extra wreaths upon the grave sites, he thought of his own life and the success he owed to those fallen heroes. Today, the nonprofit group Wreaths Across America follows in his footsteps with their donation to more than 2,100 cemeteries. By partnering with thousands of schools, and scouting groups they remember, honor and teach the importance of the sacrifice of our veterans on National Wreaths Across America Day.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Are You A Twin? If So, Your Super Powers Could Be Useful!
Welcome to December 18th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate amazing pairs and one of kind eyesores.
Twins are endlessly fascinating, from their ability to finish each other’s sentences to the striking similarities they share even if they are separated at birth. This genetic anomaly can prove useful, like when a toddler needs a rest from acting on the set of Full House ( Olsen Twins), or putting two minds together to form a magical mischief business (Weasley Twins) ding, ding, ding. But did you know that it's also useful for getting us to mars? Astronaut Scott Kelly spent over a year in space and scientists were able to study the effects of space travel on his body by comparing them to his twin brother Mark who stayed back on earth. Turns out that Scott grew a few inches taller and furthered the research for the two year voyage to mars. On National Twin Day keep your eyes open for these wunderkind and all the amazing things they do.
While many traditions uphold the beauty and magic of Christmas some are just plain weird. Behold, the ugly Christmas sweater! No one is 100 percent sure how this became a holiday thing, but tacky sweaters can trace their popularity back to 1980s TV comedies. It started on the Cosby Show and became a running joke that sitcom dads wore sweaters that looked like abstract art. Then in 2002, the city of Vancouver threw an ugly Christmas sweater party that was such a hit, it became an annual event. Each year, the proceeds from this fashion eyesore are donated to the Make A Wish foundation and that’s a truly beautiful thing! On National Ugly Christmas Sweater Day show your holiday spirit with something fun and hideous, proving once again that beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Not All Maple Trees Produce Syrup. Turns Out There's An Age Limit!
Welcome to December 17th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate gifts that keep on giving and late bloomers.
Anna: Hey Marlo, if someone gave you all the gifts from the song The Twelve Days of Christmas, how many total gifts would you end up with?
Marlo: Y’know, I’ve never even thought of that.
Anna: You would have 364 items in total. So you’d better hope you have room for 42 swans-a-swimming.
Marlo: I’d be more worried about the drummers. My neighbors would hate me.
Anna: Yeah, there’s no regifting those! The best part would be the 12 pear trees (with partridges, of course). But before you buy someone a pear tree, you’d better check for what variety they prefer because there are a lot!
Marlo: How many? I’d guess maybe a hundred.
Anna: Get this…There are 3,000 different kinds of pears in the world. Which is perfect because that means you have plenty to choose from during National Pear Month.
This day was made for pancakes, French toast and biscuits as we pour on the sweetness of National Maple Syrup Day. During cold weather, maple trees store starch in their trunks that is converted to sugar in the Spring. The sap from red, black and sugar maples is collected and processed by heating to evaporate most of the water, which produces a concentrated syrup. About 40 gallons of sap are needed for one gallon of the finished product. Thankfully, the trees that produce this sap can live up to 100 years, though they must be at least 45 years old before they can be tapped. Talk about a late bloomer! On National Maple Syrup Day we celebrate nature’s bounty with our Canadian neighbors who produce most of the maple syrup we enjoy today.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Does Chocolate Make Everything Taste Better?
Welcome to December 16th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a well timed time out and the secret to making food amazing!
Sometimes being popular is a hazard of the job! But it's hard to argue with success when you’re found in over 150 countries.I’m talking of course about Barbie. More than a billion Barbie dolls have been sold around the world thanks to extensive advertising and decades of popularity. Add to that her 36 movies, bigger and better dream houses every year, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah… there’s bound to be a backlash. But, Barbie shares the spotlight with another annoying figure; the giant purple T-Rex, Barney. If you’re a parent, this paleolithic Elvis is ringing in your ears almost every day and while it’s great for teaching kids the finer points of fair play, Barney is likely driving you to the brink. On Barbie and Barney Backlash Day we’re giving everyone a time out. Go to your corners and think about it before you Frankenstein these characters into some kind of nightmare from Toy Story.
Central and South Americans cultivated cocoa as far back as 1200 BCE. The Aztecs loved it so much that during the height of their empire, they used cocoa beans as currency. Europeans were still in the dark until the 16th century when they came to the New World. But once the secret got out, they fell in love with the treat as well. And it seems that the world has been making up for lost time ever since, eating as much chocolate as possible. That’s especially true this time of the year, when everywhere you look, there are goodies to eat: popcorn, cookies, nuts and cake. And the best of them are covered in chocolate. ‘Tis the season, as they say, for putting our diets on hold as we celebrate National Chocolate Covered Anything Day.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Does Your Job Description Include Herding Cats?
Welcome to December 15th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate inalienable rights and impossible jobs.
Many jobs are essential and require a particular set of skills. But some jobs require the patience of a saint: Kindergarten Teacher, wildlife photographer, sound engineer. These jobs and many more are often referred to as “herding cats” mainly because the things you’re responsible for have a tendency to wander off. Sorry, John. You’re not alone if you find that nothing stays where you put it or your team seems to be in left field while you’re in the right. If this sounds vaguely familiar then kick up your feet today and give yourself a well deserved day off on Cat Herders Day.
The first 10 amendments to the US Constitution are more commonly known as the Bill of Rights. Congress created 14 official copies of the original document, one for the federal government and one for each of the original 13 states. It turns out the copies were a good precaution as somehow four of them went missing. North Carolina’s copy of the Bill of Rights was stolen by a Union soldier during the Civil War and was missing for almost 140 years before the FBI tracked it down. Two other copies have been found over the years: one is housed in the Library of Congress, and the other is kept at the New York Public Library. Thankfully these rights are inalienable and while the paper version may go missing, on Bill of Rights Day we celebrate the permanence of this most important document.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Did Monkeys Pave The Way For Space Exploration?
Welcome to December 14th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate monkeying around and things that make you go “mmmm.”
If I say fish stew, you say... but if I say bouillabaisse you say- Buyah. That’s because the French have a knack for taking a handful of garden variety ingredients (think snails) and turning them into culinary delights. Bouillabaisse was a soup created by the fisherman of Marseille who wanted a one pot meal at the end of a long day of work. Rather than using the more expensive fish in their haul, they gathered up the bonier fish and shellfish left over in the net, added garlic, wine and fennel and voila - a classic that even Julia Child tried to imitate. On National Bouillabaisse Day cook up your own favorite fish and remember that one man’s “eww” is another man’s “mmmmm.”
On May 28th, 1959, two of the greatest heroes of space travel returned to Earth after a 15 minute space flight. It may not sound like much, but it was the first time astronauts were able to survive a return trip from space. And did I mention that the astronauts were both monkeys? One was named Able, and the other was Miss Baker. These brave little primates paved the way for space exploration by helping scientists to understand the physical stress of spaceflight. Unfortunately, Able passed away only a few days later, but Miss Baker lived another 25 years. When she passed away in 1984, over 300 people attended her funeral, paying tribute to her part in the history of spaceflight. On Monkey Day, we celebrate this species and the few that made the leap forward for all mankind possible.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Do You Know What The Most Expensive Violins Sell For?
Welcome to December 13th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate illustrious instruments and a quick fix for the chill of winter.
During his lifetime, Antonio Stradivari crafted about 1,100 stringed instruments and his violins became the gold standard among musicians and composers. It’s estimated that about 500 of these rare instruments still exist and they are extremely valuable. In 2011, a Stradivarius nicknamed Lady Blunt was purchased for nearly $16 million. Another, nicknamed “the Messiah,” is in pristine condition and is so priceless that no one’s even allowed to play it. It’s locked in a climate-controlled case in the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford, England. My own violin is moldering in its grave because I accidentally stepped on, thus ending my career. On National Violin Day, enjoy some beautiful violin music played by an expert.
On National Hot Cocoa Day we celebrate the convenience of a beverage made with cocoa powder, sugar, hot water or milk and perhaps some whipped cream or marshmallows. Thousands of years ago this process took much longer when the Aztecs roasted the fruit of the cacao tree and ground it with water, chilies and even corn. They didn’t understand the health benefits, but they knew it packed a punch, and soldiers drank several cups before battle. The recipe changed over the years but the tradition carried on and hot chocolate was even given to troops during the Revolutionary War as medicine and wages. Thanks to a Dutch chemist who separated out the cocoa butter, the powder could be mixed for a handy, packable drink. On National Hot Cocoa Day, celebrate the instant pleasure of a long standing tradition.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Do You Know Which Weed Was Found At The Side Of A Road And First Sold At A Roadside Stand?
Welcome to December 12th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate cheerful weeds and yummy houses.
The cheerful red plant that we associate with the holidays got its start in 16th century Mexico. Its legend tells the story of a poor girl who wanted to give the Christ child a gift. When she began to worry that she had nothing to give, an angel appeared and reassured her that any gift given with love would do. The girl gathered a bunch of weeds by the side of the road and by the time she presented them, the bouquet had transformed into bright red stars. American botanist, Joel Roberts Poinsett sent the first poinsettia cuttings from Mexico to the United States in 1825, but it was a California farmer who made their magic bloom. Paul Ecke discovered a technique that made the seedling branch and he began selling the plants at a roadside stand in the early 1920s. On National Poinsettia Day we celebrate a beautiful symbol of the season that is still given in love.
Marlo: Run, run as fast as you can. You can’t catch me…
Anna: I’m the Gingerbread Man! I love that story.
Marlo: Me too. And with the holidays coming up so quickly, there will be lots of gingerbread-flavored things to eat.
Anna: Gingerbread is always a good thing…unless your name is Hansel or Gretel.
Marlo: Yeah, that didn’t work out so well for them, did it?
Anna: But they did have the right idea. Gingerbread houses are fun to make—and delicious.
Marlo: We should make one for Gingerbread House Day.
Anna: That’s an awesome idea! Do you think we can hold off eating it until Christmas?
Marlo: Let’s be honest—we’ll probably eat the whole thing this week.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Did You Know The First App Was a Video Game Called Snake?
Welcome to December 11th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the little things that connect us to the world and our inner child.
National Noodle Ring Day celebrates the round shaped pasta that kids love to eat. This time of year, noodle rings make their way into craft projects too, proving that it's okay to play with your food. Grownups can celebrate with a casserole dish made from pasta, breadcrumbs, cheese, eggs and seasonings that is formed into a ring shaped pan. Like a noodle ring snowflake, no two celebrations are alike, but noodle rings bring the fun for everyone!
In 1997, the Nokia 6110 phone introduced a simple arcade game called Snake, which is considered by many to be the first mobile app. Almost 20 years later the iPhone was released and with it users could access nearly 500 apps. Today iPhone users can choose from almost 1.8 million of them and Android users have about 2.5 million. From navigation to learning and even performing surgery, apps have transformed our everyday lives. While they have come a long way from that first game of Snake, apps are still used to entertain us and keep us in touch with family and friends. On National App Day, celebrate the convenience of your favorite apps by sharing them with those you love.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Welcome to December 10th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a youthful game changer and the festival of lights.
Born on December 10th, 1851 Melvil Dewey created the most widely used library organizational tool that is still in use today. Since it was adopted in 1876, the Dewey Decimal Classification System or DDC has been revised and expanded but still resembles the categories and numerical arrangements designed by 21 year old Melvil. Apparently Dewey was a fan of simplified spelling and even dropped letters from his first and last name. Thankfully he did that after inventing his library system, as the D-U-I system would not likely stick today. On Dewey Decimal System Day we honor the ingenuity of a young man whose influence can still be found in 135 countries around the world.
This evening kicks off Chanukah, the Jewish festival of lights. During the time of Alexander the Great, Jewish culture began to blend with Greek culture in a mostly peaceful relationship. That is until Antiochus IV desecrated the Jewish Holy Temple. When the Israelites rededicated the Second Temple in Jerusalem, there was only enough oil to keep the lamps lit for one night, but instead, the oil lasted for 8. Chanukah celebrates this miracle with 8 nights of observance. In the evening, families light the menorah, adding one candle each night until all 9 candles are glowing on the last day. They exchange gifts, and share foods that commemorate this event. On the first day of Chanukah, we share in the spirit of miracles and embrace the ones we love.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
If Time Travel Was An Option, Where Would You Go?
Welcome to December 8th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate dessert on the go and glitches in time.
They say that necessity is the mother of invention and that appears to be the case for our favorite combination of cookie and cake: the brownie. Legend has it that Bertha Palmer wanted a special dessert that would fit neatly into a boxed lunch for her socialite friends attending the Chicago World’s Fair of 1893. Bertha’s husband owned the Palmer House hotel and one of the chefs there devised the perfect cake-like dessert that could be eaten by hand. Apparently, dessert on the go was a hit as this same recipe is served by the Parker House hotel to this day. On National Brownie Day splurge on your own chocolate fix with or without utensils.
Anna: Marlo you look different today. Why is your hair white? And why are you wearing a silver tracksuit?
Marlo: I’m not the Marlo you know. I’m future Marlo.
Anna: Okay…
Marlo: Really. I’m from 20 years in the future. I have something important to tell you.
Anna: Is this a joke?
Marlo: No! Anna, listen to me. John is going to come in with a cup of coffee and spill it on the board. It’ll set off a chain of events that will cause robots to rise up and take over the world.
Anna: Oh no! Ok, well I’ll go stop him!
Marlo: I’m just kidding. I’m not from the future. Today is Pretend To Be A Time Traveler Day.
Anna: Thank goodness. You had me scared.
John: Hey guys, I need to take a minute here. I spilled my coffee.
Marlo and Anna: NOOO!!
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
How Do You Remember The Day That Will Live In Infamy?
Welcome to December 7, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we are brought together by traditions both bitter and sweet.
On December 7, 1941 more than 3,500 Americans lost their lives or were wounded when the Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service attacked the Naval Station Pearl Harbor near Honolulu, Hawaii. The ambush was designed to destroy our U.S. Pacific Fleet, although the United States had remained neutral until this stage of World War II. On November 8th President Roosevelt announced the beginning of our military involvement and within hours Canada joined us on the side of the Allies. On National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day we display our nation’s flag at half mast until sunset and listen to survivors share their stories of those first American casualties.
Today we celebrate a popular sweet that goes by many different names. In the Netherlands, it’s known as “sugar spider.” The French call it “papa’s beard.” In Australia, it’s referred to as fairy floss. But here in the US, we call it cotton candy. This treat was invented in 1897 by William Morrison and John C. Wharton, who unveiled their creation a few years later at the 1904 World’s Fair. Since then, you can’t go to a fair or an amusement park without seeing children eating cotton candy. The inventors made a lot of money on the treat at the time, selling nearly 68,000 boxes for 25 cents a piece. But William Morrison undoubtedly made even more money than his partner because Morrison was…a dentist. Pretty sneaky, sir. On National Cotton Candy Day, treat your inner child to a taste of summers past. Just be sure to brush your teeth afterwards.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Do You Know The Real Life Inspiration For Santa Claus?
Welcome to December 6th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the spirit of giving in public or in secret.
National Pawnbrokers Day honors the ancient practice of lending money in exchange for property or goods used as security. The history of pawnbroking began thousands of years ago in Ancient Greece, Rome and China. This valuable service took on a charitable nature when the Pawn Broker’s Association renamed the celebration Musical Instrument Gift Day. Inspired by the Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation, pawnbrokers across the country now make generous donations of musical instruments to organizations in need.
Saint Nicholas, the real life inspiration for Santa Claus, was born around the year 280 AD in what is now known as Turkey. His parents died when Nicholas was very young, leaving him with a large inheritance. Rather than spend it all on himself, Nicholas used the money to help those less fortunate than him. As an adult, he became a bishop and was known for his generosity and kindness, especially toward children and the poor. After his death, his legend grew. Children who left their shoes out by the fire would awake to find money or candy inside and this inspired the tradition of leaving out stockings for Santa. On St. Nicholas Day, surprise your family with this extra day of sneaky present giving. Though if you dry your shoes by a fire, you may wanna avoid filling them with chocolates.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Some Folks Call Him A Man Of Mystery. Can You Guess Which One Of Us Is Closest To Being A Ninja?
Welcome to December 5th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the rebel spirit and our own international man of mystery.
The controversial 18th Amendment banning the production, transport and sale of alcohol sparked a revolution of speak
easy style. In the early 1800s, groups such as the Prohibition Party and the Anti Saloon League began preaching moderation in the consumption of alcohol. Those who believed that drinking was the root of all evil pushed to eradicate it altogether and by 1919 the 18th Amendment was ratified. But this didn’t ban folks from drinking, and enforcing the law became expensive during the Roaring Twenties. The terms gangster and moonshine reached their peak. Though the experiment had good intentions, National Repeal Day has been celebrated since December 5th, 1933 when the 21st Amendment was ratified and Prohibition officially ended. Even Al Capone celebrated from his prison cell.
Anna: Today we also celebrate…Marlo, where are you? John, have you seen him?
John: He was there…and then he just vanished.
Marlo: Hi guys.
Anna: Whoa! Where did you come from?
Marlo: I’ve been honing my ninja moves. I can stalk like a cat.
Anna: Why are you doing that?
Marlo: It’s International Ninja Day and I thought I’d show off my new skills.
Anna: Well, you have to warn people if you’re going to…Okay. Did he just disappear again?
John: Yes. I hope this isn’t something he plans on doing all the time.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
What's Your Favorite Holiday Cookie?
Welcome to December 4th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the spirit of fun that translates in any language.
Sir William of Tyre invented a dice game called “Hazard,” in the 12th Century AD. He named it after a castle he’d seen while serving in the Middle East during the Crusades. The game became extremely popular in 17th Century France and because it required nothing other than dice, Hazard could be played just about anywhere—in taverns, on tables and even on the street. Because people would crouch down near the ground to play, the French began to call it “crapaud,” which means toad. This name was later shortened to the game we know today as: craps. On National Dice Day roll out some fun of your own, with or without the gamble.
Cookies first appeared in Persia in the 7th century and made their way to Europe through Spain in the 14th century. They later traveled to the United States with Dutch settlers. In the Netherlands they were called koekies or little cakes. Apparently, cookies made good travel companions and a sturdy kind were called jumbles in the early days. Also known as biscuits throughout Europe, the treat became popular in the street markets all the way to the high courts. Today we celebrate National Cookie Day thanks to a Sesame Street Monster, who sums up their deliciousness with a universal phrase, "Num, num, num, num, num!" At least I think that's universal.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Wanna Feel Festive Without Spending A Lot Of Dough? Time To Bust Out The Cookie Cutters!
Welcome to December 3rd, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate making spirits bright by rolling out the dough and giving to our furry friends.
Nothing sparks your holiday season like baking homemade cookies and this is the week to roll out some dough and press it with your favorite cookie cutters. Even the ancient Egyptians liked forming sweet cakes in various shapes and folks followed suit in Greece, Rome and Western Europe. By the 1500s Germans made elaborate wooden cookie molds and gingerbread men, women and houses popped out by the dozens. But American tin smiths of the 1700s made the cookie cutters we still love today. During National Cookie Cutter Week roll out your own favorite tradition and watch the holiday cheer appear!
While you may not have room to adopt a pet this season, you can still be a part of a holiday tradition that brings comfort and joy to millions of shelter animals through Operation Santa Paws. This month we celebrate the spirit of giving to our four legged friends to make their stay a little bit brighter until they find their forever home. The organization accepts blankets, food, toys and money that will make animals feel secure and cared for, which is an important part of keeping them adoptable. And if you’re ready for a new family member, they can help you find that perfect pet. Look for Operation Santa Paws between now and December 24th to bring the holiday spirit to our furry friends.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Have You Ever Noticed What Most Mutts Have In Common?
Welcome to December 2nd, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate loveable mixes and deep fried comfort.
In the world of dogs, some come with pedigrees and champion bloodlines that win dog shows time and again, and others are...well, mutts. Unlike their purebred cousins, mutts are what Bob Ross would call “happy accidents.” Like the strange Beagle / Doberman hybrid that lived next door to Chris. Can you imagine a short legged Beagle with a long pointy Doberman snout? I’m talking about the dog, not Chris, but apparently it was cute and loveable. And that’s the best thing about mutts is their personalities. On National Mutt Day, celebrate the uniquely weird dogs that make some of the best pets.
While you may just now feel unstuffed from Thanksgiving, there is still room to celebrate all things fried with National Fritters Day. Fritters come in three types, from a basic dough, to battered vegetables and meats and finally the small cakes of chopped food such as corn. Just about anything can be frittered from flowers to fruit and almost every culture has a tasty version. Frying food in oil has been around for thousands of years, but the technique of batter frying was introduced by the Spanish and Portuguese in the late 16th century. This culinary inspiration spread to Japan, where it became known as tempura. Throughout the world from French beignets to Indian pakoras, fritters are synonymous with comfort. No matter what language you speak, on National Fritters Day your tummy will find room for this extra bit of joy.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Have You Heard Of The Highest Slam Dunk?
Welcome to December 1st, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate trick shots and the power of giving.
The Harlem Globetrotters basketball team practically wrote the book on trick shots, making near-impossible baskets in every way imaginable. And when it comes to slam dunks, there’s nobody better than Globetrotter Hammer Harrison. In 2019, he successfully completed the highest slam dunk ever. Now, you’re probably thinking—yeah, yeah—I’ve seen plenty of slam dunks before. Trust us when we say you haven’t. Harrison skydived from a plane that was 13,000 feet in the air and, as he floated in on his parachute, he slammed home a dunk just before landing. Take that, Lebron! On World Trick Shot Day, you may not have access to a plane, but we bet that you can still drive your opponent crazy in your own game of HORSE.
Every year on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving we celebrate the National Day of Giving. Known on social media as #GivingTuesday this day celebrates the spirit of expressing our gratitude with action. Perhaps the blur of hunting for deals on Black Friday and Cyber Monday has already given you a mental workout. Today we invite you to pause for a moment to consider your own good fortune. It's a gift that may not seem obvious at first, as we all feel consumed by our own needs and struggles. But the act of giving always holds the key to finding a silver lining and on National Giving Tuesday no act of kindness or charity is too small to count for those who are truly in need.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
How Will You Spend Cyber Monday?Check Our Computer Security Day Link For More Tips On How To Shop Worry Free!
Welcome to November 30th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate safety as we shop from the comfort of our homes.
Because so many people are online today looking for good deals, hackers are surfing the internet as well. It’s as big a day for deals as it is for identity theft. So while you’re getting your holiday shopping underway, pay special attention to your online security. Nothing will keep you completely safe, but there are some simple, common sense steps that you can take to protect yourself. As tempting as it may be, don’t use public wi-fi to do your shopping and use strong passwords for your online accounts. We get it—buying gifts online is much more convenient and makes life much easier, but you might as well be safe about it. On Computer Security Day, take a few minutes to check that you’re browsing the web safely so that you have one less thing to worry about during the holidays.
Shopping from the convenience of your living room has never been easier as we celebrate the phenomenon known as Cyber Monday. What began as a marketing gimmick in 2005 was actually a clever trend prediction by Ellen Davis and Scott Silverman of The National Retail Federation. They noticed the spike in online sales after Black Friday and figured that folks were using the faster internet at work to round out their holiday shopping. A simple press release launched the phrase and the Monday after Thanksgiving became the biggest online shopping day of the year. In 2019 that translated into more than 9 billion dollars in sales. It’s also a win win for shoppers who enjoy the ease of purchasing from their mobile devices. On Cyber Monday keep calm and shop on from anywhere you please.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
How Do You Stay In Touch With The Ones You Love?
Welcome to November 29th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the power of connecting to our loved ones.
Once upon a time, if people wanted to speak with someone who lived far away, they had to call them on the phone or even (gasp) write them a letter! Oh the horror! Connecting with people today is much easier. Whether it’s an email, a text, or even a post on social media, we can stay in touch with friends and family with little more than the click of a mouse. Electronic communication has made our world a little smaller and friends that live in Europe are just as accessible as friends who live down the street. So whether it’s a heartfelt email or a silly cat meme that you found online, let’s all take time on Electronic Greetings Day to reach out to someone and share a smile.
Perhaps your holidays look a little different these days and while you may not be gathering in quite the same way, it has never been more important to preserve your family traditions. During Family Stories Month we invite you to gather your shared memories and perhaps even offer to organize them for everyone to enjoy. This can be as simple as a group email inviting family members to share their favorite holiday customs or stories. You may be surprised at the different ways people remember the same events. Offering photos or questions will get the ball rolling and you may want to include a story of your own to get the party started. No matter how you celebrate this year, remind your family of what matters most; preserving the stories that bring you together across the decades and miles.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
What's Your Favorite Recipe For French Toast?
Welcome to November 28th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate supporting the small guys and a second life for stale bread.
In 2010, American Express launched Small Business Saturday as a way to help drive sales for retailers who don’t get much attention the rest of the year. There are around 30 million small businesses in the US and 1 in 5 are family owned. Yes, many of these shops fuel local economies, but they also offer amazing products that you can’t find anywhere else. Personalized, handmade jewelry, socks with your dogs picture on them. Or maybe something zany—like a painting of a dinosaur with Jeff Goldblum’s face? Small businesses have got you. And shopping at small businesses makes a big impact. On Small Business Saturday, don’t forget that supporting the little guy can help all of us.
Today we celebrate a breakfast food with as many variations as it has names. While we know it best as French toast, it's actually not French at all. The first known recipe goes all the way back to the 5th century AD when the Romans whipped up eggs and milk, dipped in bread and fried it in oil or butter. It was later called “poor knights” in Germany and “eggy bread” in England. And in France the name “pan perdu” is a perfect description for the magical transformation of stale or lost bread into golden toasted perfection. Today we serve it with cinnamon and whipped cream, syrup or fruit and no matter what you call it, National French Toast Day invites you to enjoy this breakfast favorite!
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Some Call It Craft Jerky And Others Call It... Well, You Decide.
Welcome to November 27th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate heaven on earth for shoppers and meat lovers.
Congratulations! You made it through Thanksgiving with your family. Now brace yourself for the start of the Christmas shopping season. Here comes Black Friday! It’s a great day to find amazing deals on gifts for friends and family. Shopping today is hectic, but certainly not awful, so why does it have such a bleak name? Through most of the year, retailers operate making small profits or losing money, which is known as “being in the red.” But when Christmas shopping starts, sales go way up, and they begin to turn bigger profits, which means “being in the black.” Hence, Black Friday. I don’t know about you Marlo, but I’m holding out for online shopping.
The preservation of meat by smoking or drying has been around for a very long time. Evidence of meat jerky is even found in the tombs of ancient Egypt. And this makes sense when you realize that refrigeration has only been around a relatively short while. But today we celebrate the artisanal flair of the folks who produce craft jerky with everything from elk to earthworms and even soybeans and mushrooms. If your mouth suddenly stopped watering, it's okay. Your taste buds may only be geared for the traditional beef kind originally produced by the South American tribes of the Andes. On National Craft Jerky Day prepare your palate for something savory and something more adventurous if you dare.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Did You Know That There Was No Pie At The First Thanksgiving? That's As Good A Reason As Any To Say: Let Them Eat Cake!
Welcome to November 26th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we give thanks for a favorite dessert and a meal that brings us together.
Today is National Cake Day and make no mistake, cake and ice cream is America’s favorite dessert. Who can say if we invent reasons to serve it or if there is an unwritten law about special occasions that says “you gotta have a cake.” The word comes from the Old Norse “kaka” and because of the lack of ingredients the cakes made by the Vikings looked more like gingerbread. Hmm. We know you’re saving all your room for pie today, but my family loves a cake that I serve that has layers of pumpkin and whipped cream and pecans. So like I said, no matter what the occasion: there’s a cake for that.
Sarah Hale is not someone most of us know by name, but she contributed two significant things to American culture. First, she was the author of the classic nursery rhyme Mary Had a Little Lamb. Second, and more importantly, she played a key role in our celebration of Thanksgiving. In 1862, she wrote to President Lincoln, asking him to make Thanksgiving a national holiday. Though he didn't respond for another year, in the midst of the Civil War, Lincoln fulfilled her request. He declared the holiday, asking Americans to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November as a Day of Thanksgiving and Prayer. We carry on that tradition today in many different ways but Thanksgiving Day is still an opportunity to bring family and friends together in the spirit of gratitude.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Welcome to November 25th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate two ways to chase the blues away.
While today is National Blase Day, we know how to turn that frown upside down with a dessert known as the parfait. If things are less than perfect have no fear; the French word for “perfect” inspired this creamy layered dessert that can be made with just about anything from ice cream to pudding to fruit with sauce. Grab a beautiful glass and start layering the toppings and watch your bad mood disappear. Of course if you wake up this way you may want to start celebrating National Parfait Day at breakfast.
When Thomas Edison invented the phonograph in the late 1800s, the machines were far too expensive for most people to own. So businesses opened listening parlors, where people could pay a nickel to listen to a song. These machines came to be known as nickelodeons. The cool thing about them was that you could listen with friends as each nickelodeon was equipped with 4 listening horns. Eventually, these machines were able to play multiple records and were designed with amplifiers. The enduring appeal of the jukebox is that music is fun, but when you share it with friends who are home for the holidays it could become your new favorite tradition. On National Jukebox Day, drop a few coins in the machine and dance the night away. There's always tomorrow for cooking the turkey.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Superfoods Come In All Packages. Are You A Fan Of Sour Or Salty?
Welcome to November 24th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate nutritional powerhouses from the Mediterranean.
If you’re in France and someone offers you a grenade, don’t panic. That’s what the French call pomegranates. And while this fruit isn’t explosive, it is bursting with flavor and antioxidants. Pomegranates are native to the Middle East and became a favorite of the Ancient Greeks, who viewed them as a food of the gods. That’s why they appear in statues, stories, and even on coins from that era. In modern Greece people give pomegranates to friends and family as housewarming gifts. During National Pomegranate Month check out this powerhouse fruit that packs a potent punch.
While the Stinson Seafood plant in Prospect Harbor, Maine, closed its doors in 2010 after 135 year of producing the nation’s most sardines, this nutritious little fish is still being celebrated. They were once found in abundance around the island of Sardinia in the Mediterranean Sea. Today they are still found in cans packed in oil, tomato sauce, or mustard. Because sardines are at the bottom of the food chain they tend to be free of the contaminants such as mercury that are found in larger fish. Full of Omega 3 fatty acids and other important nutrients, this silvery fellow packs a nutritious punch. And while they may be swimming upstream in terms of popularity, on National Sardines Day we celebrate this tiny fish that’s ready to make a comeback.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
There's One Nut You'll Never See In A Shell, And We Wonder Who Took The First Bite Of This "Apple!?"
Welcome to November 23rd, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate intoxicating drinks and toxic nuts.
The word espresso in Italian means ‘quick in time.’ In the coffee houses and cafes of the late 1800s this simply meant a coffee expressly made for the person ordering it with freshly roasted and ground coffee beans. Then in 1901 it all changed. Luigi Bezzera invented the modern espresso machine which brewed a smaller, more concentrated cup even faster than other methods and with it an intoxicating layer of creamy foam on the top. Known as crema, it’s the holy grail of flavor. It’s the secret behind delicious coffee creations from lattes to macchiatos to cappuccinos. It’s the very reason I roll out of bed every morning, knowing that a small corner of perfection awaits me in the kitchen. On National Espresso Day, espresso your own love for coffee and gratitude for papa Luigi.
When it comes to nuts, cashews are in a class of their own. You’ll find them in any can of mixed nuts, but they’re not exactly like the others. Their unique half moon shape makes them stand out from peanuts, walnuts, and almonds. And unlike pistachios, you’ll never see cashews in a shell. That’s because cashew shells are highly toxic to humans and can cause rashes similar to poison ivy. It makes you wonder what unlucky person first tried to eat one. Cashews are found deep inside a fruit called a cashew apple and once they are removed from this covering, they’re not only edible, they are delicious. On National Cashew Day celebrate this nut that stands out from the rest.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
What's Your Favorite Cranberry Relish? It's Good To Have Everyone's Favorite On Hand.
Welcome to November 22nd, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate holiday traditions that please us all.
While cranberry relish is a staple on the Thanksgiving table today, we can be fairly certain it wasn’t part of the first Thanksgiving meal. The colonists had run out of sugar at that time and for anyone who’s tried this ruby red berry unadorned, your pucker face says it all. The cranberry relish we know and love originated in the New England States in the early 1900s, and thanks to a lawyer, Marcus Urann who bought a cranberry bog in 1912 and later formed the company Ocean Spray we eventually had the cranberry relish I know and love: the jiggly kind that comes in a can. My brother loves to make the fresh kind with jalapenos or horseradish or whatever foodie thing is new that year. But if I can’t see those lines from the can on that perfect round of sweet tart cranberry gelatin, it’s not Thanksgiving. On National Cranberry Relish Day, sauce it up anyway you please, just remember to have something for everyone.
As we gather together with our families this week, we can be sure of a few things: we will eat too much and someone will stir up a family rukus. Plan ahead; not only for Thanksgiving dinner, but also for what to do before and after the feast is served. Games bring people together, which is exactly what this holiday is about. Yes, there may be some arguments, but it’s better to argue over who owns Park Place than so many other things. This is National Game and Puzzle Week, an easy and fun way to keep things light, while dinner does the heavy lifting.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
To Stuff Or Not To Stuff The Bird? That Is The Question.
Welcome to November 21st, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a satisfying side dish and pride in our neighbors.
Few things sum up the savory, Thanksgiving meal like a delicious turkey with stuffing. And the good news for those who prefer to ditch the bird is that this side-dish doesn’t have to be stuffed to be stuffing. Though technically, it’s called dressing when you do. On National Stuffing Day pause to consider the nostalgic appeal of those humble crusts of bread, onions, celery and herbs. And if you’re looking for a new family favorite there are endless varieties to discover that include seasonal vegetables, dried fruits, grains and nuts.
Get ready for Canadian Olympic pride with National Red Mitten Day! Hudson’s Bay company founded this day in 2017 to encourage support for Canadian athletes by wearing their red mittens. To date this iconic trend has raised more than 32 million dollars for the Canadian Olympic Foundation thanks to the generous donation from each mitten sale by the Hudson’s Bay company. The fundraiser began in 2010 when Canada hosted the Winter Olympics in Vancouver. That year Canada received a record number of medals and a new symbol for Canadian Olympic pride was born. Why invest in our competitors athletes you ask? Because cheering on our neighbors with cheery, red mittens is just good sportsmanship.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
This Day Makes Absolutely No Sense At All! So What Will You Get Up To?
Welcome to November 20th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate. ..
We celebrate the ridiculous, zany and off the wall things that folks are apt to get up to with National Absurdity Day. Our history proves time and again that we love to do things that make absolutely no sense at all. If you’ve been craving an excuse to cut loose, this day is your ticket to ride the crazy train. Please use responsibly. That’ll put marzipan in your pipe plate, bingo?
Today we celebrate the miracle known to parents everywhere as our children. While not everyone becomes a parent, most of us have some effect on the children around us and today we focus on some important things to remember about early child development. From the time they are born babies spend 60 percent of their energy on brain development. In fact the human brain grows so quickly that if the rest of a newborn's body grew at that rate it would weigh 170 pounds after only one month. And while most parents understand their role as their child's first teacher, it's also important to see the bigger picture. Because all caregivers affect the development of a child and social interactions enhance the speed and accuracy of learning at all ages, it's important to remember that it takes a village. On National Child’s Day we honor our children and celebrate those who make a difference to them every day.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
What's Your Favorite Monopoly Game Piece?
Welcome to November 19th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate getting our “buzz” on with some friendly competition and some light hearted bubbles. More after the break.
Have you ever wondered why the playing pieces for Monopoly are so random? You can thank a bunch of kids for that. The classic board game Monopoly was invented in the 1930s by Charles Darrow and based on the properties and street names of Atlantic City, New Jersey. When it came to the playing pieces, he asked his nieces for help. And they picked through metal charms from a bracelet to create the bizarre collection that includes an iron, a race car, a thimble, and a top hat. Little would they know how many people would fight over the race car over the years. On National Play Monopoly Day, you may enjoy an overly competitive game, just don’t forget the spirit of fun!
Here in North America more than 90 percent of us enjoy caffeine every single day. But not all of us enjoy tea or coffee. The rest of us can thank a German Chemist who first isolated caffeine from coffee beans in 1819. Man made carbonation was first discovered by Joseph Priestly in an English brewery and folks began using it for medicinal tonics that later became known as sodas. Today this method of infusing water with carbon dioxide is more popular than ever thanks to the addition of caffeine. On National Carbonated Beverage With Caffeine Day, we celebrate the satisfying combination that most of us could not do without.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Before He Became A Cartoon Icon, This Mouse Was In Silent Movies. Do You Know What His First Line Was?
Welcome to November 18th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a mighty mouse and a cold classic. More after the break.
Today we give a shout out to the world’s most popular cartoon character: Mickey Mouse. Almost everyone knows Walt Disney’s loveable rodent, but here are a few facts about Mickey that you might not have heard: His original name was Mortimer, but Disney’s wife made him change it. His first appearance was in the 1928 silent cartoon, Steamboat Willie. Mickey didn’t speak until the following year’s animated feature The Carnival Kid, in which he worked as a food vendor. His first words were “Hot dog! Hot dog!” He was the first animated character to get a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1978. Today we celebrate the birthday of this little mouse who’s made a big impact
Though some like it hot, most people know the soup Vichyssoise is best served cold. Here in the States this French classic was first served at the Ritz Carlton by chef Louis Diat in the Summer of 1917. The chef was inspired to recreate the potato and leek soup of his childhood in France. But how did the French come to love cold soup anyway? Some believe that the tradition began with King Louis the XV who was so afraid of being poisoned that he had many servants taste his soup first. By the time it was approved for his consumption, the soup was cold and that is how King Louis came to prefer it. On National Vichyssoise Day we invite you to rediscover this culinary classic.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
What's The Secret To Baking Bread At Home? Perhaps It's Time You Learned.
Welcome to November 17th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate classic comfort foods from around the globe.
Not many foods can be both light and rich at the same time, but baklava holds that distinction. Baklava is made of sheets of phyllo dough layered with honey, sugar, cinnamon, and pistachios. Oh, and butter. Lots of butter. This heavenly dessert got its start way back in the Assyrian Empire around 8th Century BC, when it was made with unleavened bread instead of phyllo. The version we know of was invented during the Ottoman Empire and made its way to Greece, the country it’s most associated with. On National Baklava Day, celebrate this classic rich dessert that’s a sweet bite of history.
Who doesn’t love the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked bread? Today we celebrate the tradition of making it at home. This day was established in the 1980s by the The Homemade Bread Committee from Ann Arbor, Michigan. The celebration is all about family and friends slowing down, exchanging recipes, and enjoying the process of baking and breaking bread together. Perhaps you’ve already learned how satisfying this tradition can be, and if not, it's time to find an expert and learn those well kept secrets that have been around since the dawn of time. One thing is for sure: National Homemade Bread Day will bring joy to any home willing to fire up the oven.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
What's Your Favorite Fast Food Meal?
Welcome to November 16th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate food that’s served fast and a hobby that fills up more than time.
Fast food has its origins in Kansas. In 1921, E.W. Ingram opened a restaurant that you might have heard of—White Castle. They served the same small square burgers as they do today. And the burgers were shaped that way so that more would fit on the grill. When White Castle opened, burgers were thought of as a food only slightly about table scraps for dogs. In order to dispel that notion, Ingram set up the kitchen so that people could see their food being prepared. His “take out” food began selling burgers by the sack, which is now a hallmark of fast food restaurants. On National Fast Food Day, indulge in some of your guilty pleasures, and enjoy the convenience of this “fast meal.”
If you remember Mom or Grandma saving buttons from old clothes, then perhaps you’ll appreciate the charm of this organized hobby. But for Dalton Stevens of South Carolina, buttons became a way to beat insomnia. Dalton spent his sleepless nights sewing buttons on a denim jacket for nearly three years. When he had completely covered it with 16,333 buttons, the jacket weighed over 16 pounds! Word got out and people began mailing him buttons which he used to cover shoes, doors and even a commode. In 1990 the Guinness World Records certified that “The Button King” owned the world’s largest collection: 439,900 of them without any duplicates. On National Button Day, we celebrate these tiny treasures and the many uses they serve.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
This Pan Was Made By Request And Later Rose To Fame With A Famous Bake Off!
Welcome to November 15th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate traditional cakes and gifted givers.
H. David Dalquist was the first inventor to cast the aluminum pan known as the bundt. In 1950 he created the pan in his Minnesota based Nordic Ware company for a local women’s group who wanted to bake a traditional kugelhopf or ring-shaped cake. Naming the pan for the German word for bond, Dalquist added the ‘t’ to the end of “bund” and patented the pan in a stroke of foresight genius. In 1966 the pan was used to create the “Tunnel of Fudge” cake in a Pillsbury bake off that inspired bakers everywhere! Over 200,000 orders for the pan streamed in and over 60 million have been sold to date. On National Bundt Day celebrate the bond of baking with your own family!
Giving back to the community is important and no one did that quite like Andrew Carnegie. As a child, he and his family emigrated to the United States from Scotland and he got a job as a bobbin boy at a cotton mill. Decades later, he became a railroad and steel tycoon who had amassed one of the largest fortunes of all time. Adjusting for inflation, he was worth over $350 billion. Wanting to leave the world a better place, Andrew set up pensions for his employees, gave donations that built universities, museums, and nearly 3,000 public libraries. On National Philanthropy Day, we celebrate the successful men and women who make a difference by helping others.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Who Makes The Best Pickles?
Welcome to November 14th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate pucker power and a day in your PJs.
One of the oldest methods of preserving food is pickling. This process involves placing vegetables or fruits in a sealed container with brine or vinegar. The fermentation that takes place changes the flavor and texture of the food, creating pickles, though technically only pickled cucumbers are referred to as “pickles.” Everything else has the word “pickled” before its name. So why do only cucumbers get this honor? Well, for starters, it’s one of the best parts of going to a deli. No corned beef or pastrami sandwich would be complete without one. On National Pickle Day, get your pucker on anyway you please.
Nothing makes us feel cozier than spending the day in our pajamas. That's why we love holidays that invite the whole family to enjoy this feeling together. But why wait for the hustle and bustle of the season when any day of the week will do. At least that's the rationale behind National Family PJ Day. A day spent in our jammies means we prioritize things like board games, brunch and extra time curled up together watching movies or reading books. This day is all the better because there are no expectations or traditions beyond hanging out together and keeping it casual. And if you're into matching jammies you might as well snap a few holiday photos so you can check that off your list. Hey, you just started a trend and you're barely out of bed!
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Did You Know That Santa Has Real Helpers? Find Out What Happens To All Those Letters.
Welcome to November 13th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate changing the world with empathy and compassion.
The World Kindness Movement began in 1997 in Tokyo, Japan and today includes over 28 countries around the globe. Projects include photo contests that capture moments of goodwill and generosity along with those that mirror the sustainable development goals outlined by the United Nations. But you don’t have to be a formal member to inspire those around you. There are far reaching consequences to simple acts of kindness that you can initiate in your everyday life. On World Kindness Day celebrate making a difference where you stand and having the courage to inspire, engage and influence others with positivity and compassion.
Every year, children fill mail boxes with hundreds of thousands of letters addressed to Santa. Since Santa is pretty busy getting things ready for Christmas Eve, the United States Postal Service created a way to send responses to these kids: Operation Santa. While most letters ask for gifts, some ask for help for the kids or their families. Operation Santa passes these letters along to charities and organizations that send gifts in Santa's place. During Dear Santa Letter Week, spend time helping your kids write their own wish lists. And if you're able to help your local charities, rest assured that the folks at Operation Santa will be helping to make a child's wishes come true.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Are You Ready For An American Throw Down? Who Makes The Best French Dip Sandwich?
Welcome to November 12th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate comfort food for the body and soul.
Some of the most inspiring stories come from everyday people just like us. That’s what inspired motivational speakers Jack Canfield and Mark Victor Hanson to write the book Chicken Soup for the Soul, a collection of true stories they’d heard from people who’d attended their talks. The book was such a success that they published one after another. Their recipe for success was simple: stories about overcoming obstacles are more impactful coming from the people with real experiences. On National Chicken Soup for the Soul Day, nourish yourself with something that enriches your heart or share your story with someone in need.
The French Dip sandwich is not actually French but its origins present a good old American throw down. Two Los Angeles restaurants take the credit for inventing the sandwich: Coles and Philippes. Both feature thinly sliced beef on crusty French bread that is slathered with spicy mustard and dipped in au jus sauce. And that's where the stories become different. Coles claims its French Dip appeared in 1908 when a sympathetic chef who gave his customer with sore gums a side of meat juice to soften the bread of his sandwich. The much more palatable story comes from Philippes where the sandwich was apparently dropped in a pan with meat drippings and the lucky customer raved of its intense flavor. If this friendly competition makes your mouth water, celebrate National French Dip Day any way you please.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
What's Your Favorite Sundae?
Welcome to November 11th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate ice cream bliss and our enduring love for Veterans.
When food critics list the best ice cream sundaes in America, one nearly always gets mentioned: the Bumpity Bliss sundae at Sanders Fine Chocolates in Rochester, Michigan. The base of this one-of-a-kind dessert is a Bumpy Cake—chocolate cake with two “bumps” of vanilla buttercream placed on top, then covered with fudge frosting. The cake is then topped with ice cream and hot fudge—chocolatey heaven. And lest you think that Sanders is a one-trick pony, they also invented the ice cream float back in the early 1900s. On National Sundae Day celebrate in style with a banana split, classic hot fudge, or something more adventurous.
Veterans Day always falls on November 11th to coincide with the ending of World War I. Originally known as Armistice Day for the treaty that was signed on the 11th day of the 11th month in the 11th hour, this day has also been approved to be a day dedicated to the cause of world peace. While Memorial Day commemorates all those who lost their lives in service to their country and Armed Forces Day honors those in active duty, Veterans Day encompasses all United States military veterans and does not change according to where it falls on the day of the week. It’s a reminder of our admiration for those willing to pay the ultimate price in protection of our freedom.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Have You Heard Of The Special Cake Cutting Ceremony For The Marine Corps Birthday?
Welcome to November 10th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the sweet life and the military branch that turned the tide of the Revolutionary War.
These days everyone could use a little sweetness. And what is sweeter than a personal sized vanilla cake with some buttercream and sprinkles? In fact the bakery known as Sprinkles tapped a trend that has continued to this day with their Los Angeles bakery that opened in 2005. The first recipe for cupcakes appeared in 1796 in Amelia Simmons’ “American Cookery,” and little did she know that chef Candace Nelson would eventually open a cupcake ATM in 2012 and 31 Sprinkles bakeries from coast to coast. On National Vanilla Cupcake Day it has never been easier to celebrate the sweet life.
After a few defeats at the hands of British forces, George Washington had requested troops that could fight on both land and sea. On November 10, 1775, the Second Continental Congress passed a resolution to create two Battalions of Marines to serve with the Continental Army and these men changed the course of the Revolutionary War. Their first major test came when they landed on hostile shores in the Bahamas and captured New Providence Island. As a result, Captain Samuel Nicholas became the first commissioned officer in the Continental Marines and is celebrated as the Marines first commandant. On the Marine Corps Birthday we celebrate those who are always loyal to each other, their country and their traditions.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Have You Ever Tried Scrapple For Breakfast? If Not Today Is The Day To Try Something New!
Welcome to November 9th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate adventures in the kitchen.
If you’re not from Philadelphia, you’ve likely never heard of Scrapple. This regional favorite was brought to Philly by German immigrants where it was popular with rural communities. Farmers butchered their hogs, and used most of the meat for sausages or bacon, but all of the remaining pig parts were made into scrapple. The traditional version was made only with meat, but American immigrants combined it with cornmeal or buckwheat, and formed it into a loaf. The loaf is sliced and fried, and typically served as a breakfast side dish. It’s National Scrapple Day, so why not try something different for breakfast. Go on, I dare you!
If cooking the Thanksgiving Meal is already stressing you out, one thing should ease your mind: roasting the turkey is the easiest part. And if you're still not convinced, we are giving you all month to practice as November is National Roasting Month. This low and slow cooking method brings out flavor in meats and even vegetables and since it all goes together in one pan, you can prepare a delicious meal fast and let the oven do all the work. Start with meat or veggies and some simple seasonings such as parsley, sage, rosemary and thyme. Add salt and a layer of tin foil and your meal will be fork tender in only a few hours. The best part of roasting is the way your kitchen smells and the hardy meals will call your family to the table all on their own. During National Roasting Month try this easy way to add coziness to your kitchen.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
What Puts The Steam In Your Day? If You're A Grownup It's Likely This Espresso Drink. But For The Kid In All Of Us Technology Really Revs Things Up!
Welcome to November 8th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate technology and all the ways it inspires us every day!
It’s not hard to imagine that the cappuccino we enjoy virtually everywhere today developed first in Italy. The espresso drink made with steamed milk and topped with milk froth first appeared in Italian coffee houses in the early 1900s. What may surprise you is that before then they were called kapuziner after the Capuchin monks who wore beige hooded robes that resemble the drink. The Viennese kapuziner was made with whipped cream and cinnamon or chocolate shavings and appeared as early as the 1700s. I owe a personal debt of gratitude to whoever decided to mix coffee with cream and on National Cappuccino Day I’m celebrating the genius who made it possible to make them in my own kitchen!
Science and technology are critical to our future. That’s why STEM and STEAM education have become increasingly popular. For those of you who don't know the terms, STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. The A was added to incorporate Art for a more well rounded curriculum. Young children are curious by nature, so introducing them to science and technology early in life can make a huge difference in their development. Even if your child doesn't focus on a career in any of these fields, STEM and STEAM education can set them on a path towards success. On National STEM/STEAM Day, take time to inspire the little people in your life because they are the ones who will shape our future.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
It's Time To Head Outside and Play. And If You Happen To See Our National Mammal, Speak Softly!
Welcome to November 7th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate playing outside and a national mammal.
Hey Marlo, It’s National Play Outside Day and you’re actually here in Vegas. Does that mean you’re gonna go take a hike? Okay, I know you don’t like to be tracked down on the weekends, but no matter where you live, there’s no excuse to stay inside on the first Saturday of November. Come rain or shine there are plenty of outdoor activities that are great for dusting off those mental cobwebs and taking a break from screen time. Get outside, breathe some fresh air and if you throw in some playtime with family even better. If we were in your neck of the woods we may even spot the other thing we are celebrating today, eh Marlo?
The majestic bison can weigh in at nearly 2000 pounds making it the largest land mammal in North America. According to Native American legend, there was a great famine long ago and the chief of the Lakota tribe sent out scouts to hunt for food. They encountered the White Bison Calf Woman, who taught them religious rituals and told them that when she returned, harmony would be restored to the world. As she left, herds of bison surrounded the camps and the animal became an important part of tribal culture. Though the bison was nearly extinct by the late 1800s, today it can be found in all 50 states. In 2016, it was declared America’s National Mammal and on National Bison Day we celebrate this essential part of our nation's history.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
What Goes On Your Perfect Stack Of Nachos?
Welcome to November 6th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the true colors of sports fandom and the origin of a perfect snack.
When it comes to sports uniforms clothes really do make the person. Try to imagine your favorite athlete in their rival team’s uniform. Probably gets you a little hot under the collar, right? Jerseys are a huge part of sports fandom, where people put their allegiances on display for the world to see and let their opponents know where they stand…even if it’s all in good fun. Although… Michigan fans would rather be covered in ants than be seen wearing ANYTHING with the words Ohio State on it. If you’ve got a favorite player, National Jersey Friday is the day to celebrate by wearing their number and letting the world see your true colors.
Ignacio Nacho Anaya was the host of The Victory Club in the early 1940s. When the chef of the restaurant turned up missing one night, Ignacio hurried to the kitchen to whip up something for his favorite guests and nachos have been a favorite snack ever since. Though they started with humble chips, cheese and jalapenos, today’s recipes are inspired by almost every culture and cuisine. Not only can nachos feed a crowd, they can be a meal in themselves when piled high with any kind of protein and sauce. Try your favorite leftovers with melted cheese over chips and you are sure to make your culinary mark. On National Nachos Day celebrate this lightning fast meal that is always a crowd pleaser.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Have You Noticed There's More Than One Doughnut Day? And Given That They Bring Folks Together, A Little Extra Celebration Seems Just Fine!
Welcome to November 5th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a bonus doughnut day and a recessive gene worth celebrating.
Hey Marlo, I know you didn’t plan this but today is another National Doughnut Day. And I’m not gonna look a gift carb in the mouth. Apparently people around the world love their doughnuts. Take the folks at the Jewish Life Centre in Johannesburg, South Africa, who landed in the Guinness Book of World records for tallest stack of donuts. As part of their 2018 Hanukkah celebration, they created a pyramid-shaped tower of a whopping 3,100 doughnuts, which involved a team of structural engineers, an architect and a crew of volunteers who worked in shifts for nearly 8 hours! The doughnuts were given to soup kitchens and homeless shelters throughout the city. Doughnuts always seem to inspire the spirit of giving. Yeah, I think we need two days of celebrating that.
For the record I also did not create National Love Your Red Hair Day. The genetic trait that causes red hair is found in only two percent of the population, so those of us with natural red have no trouble standing out. If you have both red hair and blue eyes then you are in a 1 percent category and chances are you are also left handed. And while redheads have a reputation for being feisty and stubborn we are also natural born leaders. This may have more to do with getting picked on or singled out in life and learning quickly to defend ourselves. Which seems to have worked well for Prince Harry, Carol Burnett, Ron Howard and Lucille Ball. On National Love Your Red Hair Day celebrate this unique trait and the bonus of standing out in a crowd.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
What Is Your Favorite Way To Unwind and Relax?
Welcome to November 4th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate taking a breath and a candy that went to war.
Okay, I’ll admit it: “I’m Stressed!” And maybe it’s no accident that National Stress Awareness Day falls on the Wednesday after election Tuesday. No matter how you voted yesterday, the lead up to this week has been stressful and because stress is the number one indicator of how long or how short your life will be, it’s time to take a serious look at what’s been eating you. Like seriously! Today is the day to take a walk, have a bath, call a friend, get a massage or simply take a breath. It’s that important to get a game plan for how you will outwit stress in your life.
They say that necessity is the mother of invention and in the case of M&Ms candy, this phrase is certainly true. It turns out that the best selling candy in the world was created in 1941 and during World War II, M&Ms were exclusively sold to the military. Their small size and candy coating made them the perfect candy for military rations: they were easy to transport and the candy coating prevented the chocolate from melting. When soldiers returned home, they were hooked and wanted more, so the Mars Company made them available to the general public. Soon other companies made a knockoff version and Mars had to mark its candy coated chocolates with the trademark M that we still see today. On National Candy Day, treat yourself to something to make your day a little sweeter.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
If You Had A Sandwich Named After You, What Would Be On It?
Welcome to November 3rd, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate star-struck sandwiches and the magic of gratitude.
If you’re famous, it’s a rare honor for a restaurant to name a sandwich after you. Especially if the sandwich is good. For example: The Leonardo DiCaprio sandwich from Lioni’s in New York is: Roast beef, American Cheese, mozzarella, bruschetta, stuffed peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, fried eggplant, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. The Adam Sandler sandwich from The Stage deli is: salmon, lettuce, sturgeon, onion, and tomato. And, of course, the Elvis Presley: Peanut butter, banana, and bacon. Ok Marlo, if you had a sandwich what would it be? Marlo: Sharp cheddar cheese, slices of apple and raisins. Anna: that sounds delicious! If you’re a star in your own kitchen celebrate National Sandwich Day with your own celebrity creation.
Most people agree that the Thanksgiving meal is one they look forward to all year. And while the tradition of what's on the menu may vary from home to home, the secret ingredient that makes every meal delicious is gratitude. Perhaps you've noticed how counting your blessings makes everything in life appear sweeter, even when it's hard to see the silver lining. When life goes off course try keeping an attitude of gratitude. It's not an essential cooking ingredient, but it is one of life's best kept secrets. During National Gratitude Month, we invite you to watch as the things you're grateful for begin to multiply.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
If You Think Taxes Are Outrageous Today, Be Glad There Is No Tax On Beards. Find Out What Started The Mustache Rage.
Welcome to November 2nd, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate kicking things up a notch and going over the top with our “mo’s”.
While lots of foods fall in and out of favor it appears that deviled eggs have a long history of success. Even the Ancient Romans liked boiled eggs with spicy sauce as the opening act of their meal. And while the 13th century Spaniards began smashing the yolks as a filling, the term “deviling” didn’t appear until the 18th century. This is when a little heat became associated with the devil. I’m not sure if this was reverse psychology or someone’s version of a double dog dare, but a little paprika is hardly a walk on the dark side. Today, folks bring this classic hors d'oeuvre back in vogue by adding wasabi or southwestern zest and a general devil may care attitude with heat level. On National Deviled Egg Day celebrate by kicking up the spice any way you like it.
During the late 1800s, Peter the Great imposed a beard tax on his citizens. That's right! Men were charged an annual fee if they chose to grow out their whiskers. This meant that peasants were charged every time they entered cities. Those who paid were allowed to keep their chin hair, but most men shaved to avoid the tax. As a result, extravagant mustaches became all the rage and were often paired with excessive sideburns. If you notice the men in your life sporting mustaches this month, it's because November is Movember, a time to raise awareness for men's health issues. And the only money changing hands is for charity, not for taxes.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Did You Know That Cinnamon Comes From Giant Birds?! Okay, So It's A Good Day For Some Creative Storytelling!
Welcome to November 1st, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the power of stories and those who use them for good or otherwise.
Agatha Christie is the queen of the Whodunnit. Of the nearly 80 murder mysteries she wrote, about half involve death by poisoning. Christie had an extensive knowledge of drugs and poisons because of her time spent working in a hospital pharmacy during World War I. She watched carefully as pharmacists and nurses administered medicine to patients, and she learned what dosages were safe, as well as what could kill someone. Luckily for the world, she used her knowledge for good and wrote some of the most successful novels ever. In fact, she’s only been outsold by The Bible and Shakespeare’s works. On National Author’s Day celebrate by reading one of your favorite works or maybe something new from an up-and-coming writer.
Cinnamon warms up everything from fall drinks to French toast. But a long time ago the spice was a rare commodity that cost nearly 50 months wages for a mere pound. The Egyptians used it to embalm their mummies, and burned it like incense in their tombs. The origins of cinnamon were kept a secret to protect the spice traders monopoly. They even told a story of giant cinnamon birds that harvested the bark to line their nests. This story lasted until around 1310 BCE. Today it's no secret that most cinnamon comes from Indonesia and you don't have to be royalty to enjoy its warm, festive flavor. On National Cinnamon Day enjoy something delicious and be glad it didn't come from a giant birds nest.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Halloween Has Been Around For Thousands of Years. Do You Know The Origins Of Wearing Costumes And Carving Jack-O-Lanterns?
Welcome to October 31, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate all things spooky and opportunity knocking.
Halloween dates back thousands of years to ancient Ireland, when pagans celebrated the end of the summer harvest. They believed that on this night, October 31st, the gates opened between the worlds of the living and the dead. In order to scare off any fairies or evil spirits, people dressed in costumes. Centuries later, the custom of “souling” began, which involved people going door to door in costume, singing hymns and reciting prayers on behalf of the dead. In return, they were given soul-cakes, something like a fruit muffin. So that accounts for costumes and trick or treating, but do you know where the idea for jack o’ lanterns came from? Well, it turns out that those costumed singers carried around hollowed out turnips with candles inside to represent the souls of the dead. Somehow, that makes it feel creepier than the trapped soul thing. Get your masks on, boys and ghouls, today is Halloween, the spookiest day of the year.
Marlo: Knock Knock Anna: Who’s there?
Marlo: Boo? Anna: Boo Hoo?
Marlo: Don’t cry I have 10 more knock knock jokes.
Anna: Oh Marlo are you just trying to lighten the mood. I know you’re easily scared.
Marlo: Actually, it’s National Knock-Knock Jokes Day.
Marlo: Knock Knock Anna: Who’s there?
Marlo: Bee Anna: Bee who?
Marlo: Be-ware there’s a full moon this Halloween.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Mary Shelley Created Her Classic Monster Thanks To A Summer Of Gloom. Do You Know What Natural Disaster Caused The Year Without A Summer?
Welcome to October 30, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate gloomy beginnings and sweet endings. More after the break.
In 1815, a massive volcanic eruption in Indonesia spread ash around the entire globe. The following year was dubbed The Year Without a Summer. The skies were dreary and dark, and temperatures were far below normal. And in the midst of this, a legendary novel was born. Lord Byron invited Mary Shelley and her fiancee to his home in Switzerland, where the friends huddled around a fireplace and read from a book of scary stories. In this eerie setting, Byron came up with the idea that each guest should write their own ghost story to share with the group at the end of their stay. And that is how Mary’s Frankenstein was born. On National Frankenstein Friday host your own eerie happy hour or read the original classic, if you dare!
Not everyone is a fan of candy corn, which was invented in the 1800s and originally called Chicken Corn. At the time, most Americans were farmers and candy shaped like vegetables were all the rage. What made candy corn stand out were its bright Fall colors. During World War II, sugar had to be rationed, so the makers of candy corn cut back production and limited sales to the Fall. Trick or treating became popular around the same time, so candy corn became synonymous with Halloween. If you’re a fan then indulge your sweet tooth on National Candy Corn Day. And if not celebrate the fact that it's only around a short while.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Da
It's Hard To Believe That Cats Ever Had Jobs, But Today We Celebrate Their Role As Expert Nappers!
Welcome to October 29, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a good start to the day and the pets who know how to stretch out a siesta.
Samuel Johnson, creator of the first proper English dictionary, was no fan of oatmeal. In his definition, he called it “A grain which in England is generally given to horses, but in Scotland supports the people.” His friend James Boswell, a Scotsman, replied “Aye, and that’s why England has such fine horses, and Scotland such fine people.” If you’re one of these fine people, you know how good oatmeal can be. It may not be the most exciting breakfast food, but it is perfect for chilly mornings. Add some fruit, honey, or syrup, and you’ve got a tasty and healthy start to your day. On National Oatmeal Day, celebrate with a bowl of the good stuff, or even a batch of oatmeal cookies. And if you’ve got a horse, feel free to share the love.
A lot of attention is paid to the hard working dog and by comparison cats seem a lot lazier, unless you take into account their role as influencers in funny hats on the internet. But thousands of years ago cats emerged from the wild to play a useful role as mice catchers, stemming the spread of disease and helping yield better crops. The Egyptians revered cats for their priceless role and even mummified cats to do their job in the afterlife, but when the Egyptian dynasty collapsed, cats found an even better job in the laps of the rich in Far Eastern India and Japan. This is where the breeding of Siamese and Burmese cats began and with it the notion that cats were a luxury and not a mere farm hand. On National Cat Day we celebrate their place in our hearts as expert nappers.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Sweet Dreams Are Made Of This. What Is The Record For Largest Chocolate Sculpture?
Welcome to October 28, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate chocolate dreams and remarkable rodents.
Anyone who loves chocolate is probably celebrating this treat everyday, but National Chocolate Day is an excuse to take it over the top. And a few fans are even setting world records. Turns out that sculptors use the confection as a medium for sweet artistic wonders creating everything from giant pandas to statues and cathedrals. But according to the Guinness Book of World Records the largest chocolate sculpture is the Casa do Chocolate made by a team in Brazil in 2018. The house is realistic in design and includes a stove, kitchen utensils, furniture and a typewriter all made from more than 23,000 pounds of chocolate. Now that sounds like a chocolate lovers dream!
In 1979, one of America’s smallest—and weirdest—celebrities made her debut: Twiggy the Waterskiing Squirrel. Chuck and Lou Ann Best rescued a baby squirrel that had fallen out of its nest and about a year later, the little animal had become part of the family. As a joke, Chuck built a tiny pair of Styrofoam water-skis for Twiggy and attached them to his daughter’s remote controlled boat. Word got out about the squirrel’s talent and soon Twiggy was making appearances on news shows around the country. For nearly 40 years, this tiny performer and her offspring have toured the US, entertaining crowds and teaching kids the importance of water safety. October is National Squirrel Awareness Month and while you may not have the patience to teach one to ski, you can certainly give them the right of way on the road.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Black Cats Were Symbols Of Good Luck For Thousands Of Years. Find Out How Their Lucky Streak Was Broken.
Welcome to October 27, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate making good on a bad wrap and the season of “chill”.
It appears that the myth surrounding black cats as bringers of doom and bad luck is relatively new and associated with the Puritanical view of witches and their supernatural pets. Starting in the 12 century, folks began to perpetuate the idea that a witch could transform into a black cat nine times and thus their reputation for multiple lives began too. But well before that the ebony coated feline was a sign of good luck from Ancient Egypt to Old England, Scotland and Japan where black cats enjoyed a good luck status for thousands of years.
Hey, Anna didn’t you adopt a black cat recently?
I did! And my life has never been luckier!
Aren’t you practicing bloodletting too?
Well she is a shoulder cat, so it took her awhile to get the knack of sticking the landing without scratching up my neck.
She’s adorable! On National Black Cat Day break your streak with superstition and find some feline good fortune for yourself.
America’s love affair with beer started even before the United States was a country. In 1612, Dutch traders Adrian Block and Hans Christiansen established a brewery on what would become Manhattan Island. At the time, the area was called New Amsterdam and was a fur trading outpost. The winter that year was especially cold and icy, which made the workers very grumpy. To boost morale amongst their men, Block and his partner started brewing beer, which worked like a charm. While beer is consumed all over the world here in the States we love it icy cold and if the weather is already frosty where you live, chances are you still enjoy a cold one. On National American Beer Day celebrate the season of chill by cracking open your favorite brew.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Have You Picked Up Your Halloween Pumpkin Yet? Find Out Who Holds The Record For The Largest Pumpkin Grown Here In The U.S.
Welcome to October 26, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the workhorse of the Old West and a sure sign it's Fall.
One of the great unsung heroes of the Old West wasn’t even a person—it’s the mule. These animals are a hybrid of a female horse and a male donkey, and they inherited the best traits from each of their parents. They’re athletic and intelligent, but also have greater range of vision and surer footing than either the horse or donkey—plus, they’re more even-tempered too. Combining all these traits into one created the perfect animal to help settlers expand across America. Mules could carry heavy loads, walk longer distances, and navigate rugged mountain terrain and they were the perfect pack animal and companion for cowboys. On National Mule Day, tip your hat to an animal that helped tame the West…and did it without any complaints.
There's no doubt that pumpkins find their place on our radar as symbols of Fall and our love of the season. How quickly we embrace leaving warm weather behind with pumpkin spice lattes brewing and the ingredient that finds its way into everything from candles to pet shampoo. This squash is native to North America with the oldest pumpkin seeds dating back to 7000 BC in Mexico. The word pumpkin originates from the word pepon, which means large melon in Greek. And our fascination for these large melons grows even bigger when they reach record sizes. The current record holder here in the States is Steve Gedden with his 2,528 pound pumpkin that garnered him 6,000 dollars in prize money. On National Pumpkin Day celebrate your favorite recipe or product that has you dreaming of a visit from Great Pumpkin himself.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Is Your Mother-In-Law Magical Or Just Plain Spooky?
Welcome to October 25, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate magical mother-in-laws and greasy spoons.
Okay, we’re getting close to Halloween and if you think celebrating National Mother-In-Law Day is more than a little scary here's something to lighten your spirits. The most magical, fictional mother-in-law award goes to... Agnes Moorhead as Endora on Bewitched. Not only did she possess witchy powers, she knew just how to wilt her son in law, Darren by simply refusing to call him by his real name. Durwood, Darwin, Dum Dum, What’s his name… Rumor has it that she hung out with Atilla the Hun, so her mother-in-law wit was well sharpened. If you can relate then celebrate this day any way you see fit. Best to avoid being turned into a toad. On the other hand if you have a gem of a Mother-In-Law you’ll probably want to count your lucky stars.
The name may not sound very nice, but there’s something great about a greasy spoon. I don’t mean a utensil you need to wash—I’m talking about a good old fashioned diner. Since the 1920s, diners have been an American favorite, and there’s no better place to get a quick meal—especially a late-night one. And what’s the best thing on the menu? It’s a matter of taste, but whatever it is, it’s probably fried. Yes, we try to avoid fried foods most of the time, but every so often, it’s great to live a little and gobble down a plate of fries, onion rings, or fried chicken. Even the healthiest person has a soft spot for some greasy food now and again. On National Greasy Food Day, celebrate this excuse for sidling up to the counter at your favorite local diner and taking the plunge.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m John McClain. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Did You Know That The Recipe For Bologna Was Protected By The Papacy?
Welcome to October 24, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the first name in lunch meat and a guest host’s super power.
Some foods owe their success to immigration, leaving behind the identity of the city or place they came from to take on a new role here in America. One of these is bologna. Beginning its life as mortadella, the beloved sausage meat from the Italian city of Bologna was even protected in 1661 by the papacy. They created an official definition of the recipe to ensure it would be made with the right amount of lean pork specked with lumps of lard. Here in the United States bologna gained popularity as a cheaper food that took off during the Great Depression and the war rationing eras. It also held up to the inventions associated with processed foods and packaging. But perhaps its greatest break came from a jingle in the 1970s. On National Bologna Day we celebrate the success of this immigrant whose first name has remained unchanged for almost 400 years.
Chris: That was the BEST national day we have ever done on the show.
Anna: Are you serious?
Chris: No. I’m not.
Anna: Well, what was I supposed to read?
Chris: You read the right thing. Bologna is amazing. It’s my favorite food.
Anna: Really? I would have never guessed that about you.
Chris: Anna. None of that is true. I’m being completely sarcastic. It’s National Sarcastic Awareness Month. So are you aware now?
Anna: No. Can you explain it again? I missed that.
Chris: Okay. So sarcasm is…
Anna: I’m not serious, Chris. You can stop talking now.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Guess Who Has A Birthday Today?
Welcome to October 23, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate mistaken dessert identities and the birthday of a famous host.
When it comes to dessert no one is complaining about identity theft when they order Boston Cream Pie. That's because the delicious layers of buttery sponge cake sandwiched with pastry cream and topped with a shiny coat of chocolate could hardly be considered a crime. Created by a French pastry chef at the Parker House Hotel in Boston in the late 1800s this dessert became the official dessert of Massachusetts in 1996. At the time it was created, cakes and pies were baked in the same pans and thus their names became interchangeable. What landed this creation on the map was the accessibility of a new ingredient: baking chocolate, which proves that just about anything topped with glistening layers of melted chocolate is bound to be a hit! On National Boston Cream Pie Day celebrate the sweet dilemma of this identity crisis.
Johnny Carson was host of the Tonight Show for 30 years straight and became a national icon. But the record for most years as a late-night host is held by his protegé, David Letterman, who hosted his talk shows for 33 years. Letterman made his debut on February 1, 1982, as host of Late Night on NBC. His first guest was Bill Murray. A little over 10 years later, he moved his show to CBS and entertained audiences with wacky skits like Stupid Human Tricks and the Late Show Monkey Cam. He recorded his final episode on May 20, 2015. And his last guest was… Bill Murray, who popped out of a cake and bade his friend farewell. A fitting bookend to a long and storied career. We celebrate National TV Talk Show Host Day, on October 23rd because it’s Carson’s birthday. Anna: It’s also the birthday of my favorite show host: Marlo Anderson.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
What Is The Best Way To Spoil Your Pooch?
Welcome to October 22, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a pop of color and rewarding our true blue friends.
The human eye can see nearly 7,000,000 different shades of color. It’s one of the first things we notice when we process visual information and as humans we have a primal response to different colors. For example, purple is rare in nature, so when we see it, the color registers as something special. That’s why we use it for royalty and elegant things. Green reminds us of nature and peaceful, soothing things. White is technically the absence of color, so it reminds us of simplicity, which is why companies like Apple use it for their products to feel sleek and easy to use. On National Color Day, don’t be afraid to show your true colors. You may just change the world around you.
There are lots of days that celebrate our furry friends but this one is all about the most loyal. For the dogs who have stood by our side through thick and thin today is all about them. It doesn't take much to please our pups: an extra long walk or a special treat would do, and what dogs crave most is quality time with their owners. Pet stores stock everything you need to pamper your pooch at just about every price point. And if you haven’t had a dog in a while, there are nearly 3.3 million shelter dogs seeking a forever home. This could be the day that you make a dog's biggest dream come true. On National Make a Dog’s Day go the extra mile for the pets that have been by your side come rain or shine.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Was Pasta Really Served to Marco Polo By Kublai Khan? No Matter How You Spin It, Italians Still Love Their Pasta To This Day!
Welcome to October 21, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate an early thanksgiving and the discovery of a perfect carb.
If you are a fan of all things pumpkin, congratulations! You have arrived at the best time of the year. But if you’re already on pumpkin spice overload you may want to save yourself for the ultimate flavor combination the season has to offer: pumpkin cheesecake. This beauty can even upset all the dessert standbys on theThanksgiving table. What a perfect day to perfect your own recipe ahead of the holiday rush. By November you’ll be a cheesecake expert and even if the pumpkin spice madness has already peaked, folks will be drawn like moths to a flame to your heavenly creation!
The smooth richness of cream cheese marries with creamy, spiced pumpkin, topped with just sweetened whipped cream. Oh I am so glad that National Pumpkin Cheesecake Day arrived today! Why wait to be grateful?
Marco…Polo!
Legend has it that when the famous explorer Marco Polo visited China in the late 13th Century, he was served pasta by Kublai Khan. He loved the dish so much that he brought it back to Italy when he returned home. Great story, but it’s probably false. The truth remains, however, that Italians love their pasta. In fact they eat an average of 75 pounds of pasta per person every year. The second largest consumer may surprise you; sitting just across the Mediterranean - Tunisia. People around the world love pasta so much that it’s only fitting to celebrate for an entire month. So for National Pasta Month we all say Buon appetito!
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks fACor joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Is There Really More Than One Way To Say The Word "Caramel?" How In The World Did This Turn Into A Sticky Situation?!
Welcome to October 20, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate sweet rewards and the power of building up our youth.
I’ve got a surprise for you Marlo. I know you have been super healthy lately, but are you aware that it’s National Caramel Month? For those who don’t know this is Marlo’s favorite flavor. And it’s absolutely amazing on popcorn, his favorite food. In fact what doesn’t taste better with a drizzle of buttery caramel? That’s why it’s a good idea to have some on hand for a sweet flourish over your latte or a fantastic finish to your desserts. Did we mention it’s also National Dessert Month? Everyone could use an extra dose of sweetness right about now. So stock up and celebrate with National Caramel Month.
Stevland Judkins Morris was born on May 13, 1950, and went blind shortly after because of his premature birth. Despite his disability, he had a passion for music and by the age of 10 he had taught himself how to play the harmonica, piano, organ, and drums. Stevland played during church services and his talent impressed one fellow parishioner so much that the man introduced him to a friend named Berry Gordy—the president of Motown records. Gordy took the boy under his wing and helped turn him into the star we know today as… Stevie Wonder. Sometimes all it takes to make a difference in a child’s life is a little encouragement. Not every kid will grow up to be famous, but they’ve got a better chance at success if you inspire them to be themselves. On National Youth Confidence Day, it’s a good day to be the adult you needed when you were a kid.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
"These Are A Few Of My Favorite Things," Said The Co-Host Of The National Daily.
Welcome to October 19, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the classically smooth and delicious.
If you are tuned into the foodie world at all then you will appreciate the term “mouth feel.” That’s anything that pleases the mouth beyond merely the taste buds and today we are celebrating something I find truly special: seafood bisque. This rich, creamy mouth pleasing soup has been around for centuries and probably originated in France in the Bay of Biscay where seafood was plentiful. But that’s not exactly how bisque got its name. For that we take a clue from how it's cooked. First the seafood shells are sauteed with onions, celery and carrots then simmered in wine or broth with aromatic herbs. This makes it “bis” “cuit” for twice cooked flavor and by the time the seafood and cream are added an unparalleled flavor has developed. On National Seafood Bisque Day make your mouth happy with this classic seafood concoction.
The British Empire spanned the globe in the mid 1800s and one of its most valuable colonies was in India. England was able to conquer so much of the world because of its powerful army and navy. But one thing its military couldn’t fight was malaria. The disease had long been eradicated in Europe, but in India’s tropical climate, malaria was still a health concern. The Brits stationed in India learned that quinine powder could help treat and prevent the disease. However, the taste was so bitter that no one wanted to take it. Then someone had the idea to mix it with soda water and sugar to make it more palatable, creating what became known as “tonic water.” Soon, colonists began mixing this tonic with a British favorite—gin—and the famous cocktail was born. On International Gin and Tonic Day, enjoy a classic libation that still goes down as smooth as British ingenuity.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Who Knew That Shaving Your Beard Could Save Your Life?
Welcome to October 18, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a special dessert and bracing your face to conquer the world.
Hey Marlo, guess what today is? National Chocolate Cup Cake Day? Right. What a perfect celebration food! Who wouldn’t love a delicious, bite sized chocolate cake? With or without frosting these gooey morsels can satisfy any chocolate lover who might be celebrating, oh, I don’t know a special occasion… Yep! 100 percent agree. Cupcakes have been around since the late 18th century when they were baked in individual ramekins or small coffee and tea cups and called patty cakes or fairy cakes. On National Chocolate Cupcake Day bake up a batch for your own celebration, even if it's a party of one. Happy Birthday, Anna. Oh you remembered!
Alexander the Great is considered one of the most powerful rulers in human history. But legend has it that he also helped to popularize a custom that lives on to this day—men shaving their faces. In 331 B.C., Alexander lost a key battle in which he witnessed Persian soldiers grabbing his men by their beards and holding them in place in order to stab the men with spears. Before they fought the Persian army again, he ordered his troops to shave their beards. His army won the next battle and he went on to conquer the Persian Empire and control the largest empire in the world. You may find yourself grumbling as you’re shaving and getting ready for work today on National No Beard Day. But just think—nicking yourself with that razor isn’t as bad as getting poked with a spear.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
Have You Ever Wished For A Do-Over In Life? Today Is Your Lucky Day!
Welcome to October 17, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate second chances and a superfood do over.
A mulligan is a do over or chance to hit the reset button. In golf it’s a term that means taking a second shot if things don’t go according to plan. No one is exactly sure which Mulligan gave us this term whether it was David Mulligan from Canada, John “Buddy” Mulligan from New Jersey or Thomas Mulligan from Ireland. All three were passionate about the game of golf and all three knew the value of blowing off a bad shot. If you feel like taking a mulligan from this entire year, start today. It’s never too late to reframe your thinking with a fresh perspective and the good news is this: there are still a few months to explore doing just that. On National Mulligan Day tee up a new outlook and give yourself a well-deserved break.
October is Spinach Lovers Month and when I think of spinach, I think of Popeye. When he ate a can of spinach, he practically turned into a superhero because of all the vitamins in it. Popeye cartoons made the vegetable so popular in the 1930s that sales shot up 33%. But here’s the interesting part: The reason everyone thought spinach was such a superfood was because of a misplaced decimal. A scientific study told everyone that there were 35 milligrams of iron per serving, but it’s actually only 3.5. That doesn’t mean spinach isn’t good for you, but it does mean you’re not going to develop super strength just because you eat some. I guess that scientists needed a mulligan too.
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
This Rebel Of Words Took 27 Years To Complete His Best Known Work. But He Didn't Stop There!
Welcome to October 16, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate rebels with a cause and a healthy expression of our competitive spirit.
American Noah Webster is best known for publishing A Compendious Dictionary of the English Language in 1806. His belief that the English spelling rules were unnecessarily complicated, led him to compile the American English spellings, which we take for granted today until we run across words such as “color” with an extra ‘u’ or center with an ‘re’ ending. This task took 27 years to complete and required Webster to learn twenty-six languages, including Old English, German, Greek, Latin, Italian, Spanish, French, Hebrew, Arabic, and Sanskrit. He also added American words such as “skunk” and “squash” that did not appear in British dictionaries. And he argued with the great minds of the day about the idea of climate change and his fierce opposition to slavery. On National Dictionary Day we celebrate the spirit of going against the grain with an original rebel of words.
Organized sports were introduced to the world at the first Olympic Games in Ancient Greece. The first events were based on training for war and hunting—races, wrestling, jumping, and javelin throwing. And that’s a good thing. Because it became a way for people to prove who was better and hash out differences without hurting one another with weapons. Sports are cathartic and bring people together. You can see it at most amateur and professional sporting events: Athletes scream and yell and try to beat their opponents, but when the game is over, they congratulate one another. They laugh. They shake hands and hug. Because in the end we’re all human and that’s what counts. On National Sports Day, celebrate the spirit of friendly competition!
If you’d like to know more, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com. I’m Anna Devere and I’m Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day!
After A Long Day Of Fighting Crime What Tastes Better Than Shwarma?
Welcome to October 15, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate food that’s fit for a superhero and love at first sight. More after the break from guest host, Chris Cecot.
At the end of The Avengers, after the heroes had defeated Loki and his army in the Battle of New York, they were pretty beaten up. They’d saved the world, but they were exhausted and hungry. So Tony Stark took the team out to lunch—to get shawarma. He didn’t know what it was, but he wanted some. Shawarma is a Turkish dish made from thinly sliced meats stacked on vertical spits. Then the seasoned meats slowly rotate next to a heat source. The layers keep the meat tender and juicy and they’re shaved off for each serving and served on a pita with hummus, tahini, pickles, and vegetables. Sometimes the meat is lamb, sometimes it’s chicken, but it’s always delicious. National Shawarma Day is a perfect time to get yourself one of these scrumptious Middle Eastern favorites. Hey—if it’s good enough for Earth’s Mightiest Heroes, it’s good enough for you.
If your life ever feels like an episode of Job Switching, where Lucy has to beat the conveyor belt of candy by hiding them in her mouth, then chances are you've already fallen in love with Lucy. This iconic television show first aired on October 15th, 1951 and audiences were in love at first sight. That’s because the show featuring Lucille Ball, Desi Arnaz, Vivian Vance, and William Frawley was a program of firsts, including the first to be performed before a live studio audience. In four of its six seasons, I Love Lucy was the most-watched TV show in the United States and to this day it still lands on TIME Magazine's list of top 100 shows. On National I Love Lucy Day, catch up on your favorite episodes and be grateful you don't have to learn the lesson of Job Switching.
If you would like to Celebrate Every Day with us, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com.
What Is The Strangest Fossil Ever Named? Today We Dig Up A Few Along With The Most Expensive Dessert.
Welcome to October 14, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate weird names and wild desserts.
The discovery of fossils is an ongoing treasure hunt and their discovery both inspires and informs us. They often reveal missing links between our modern world and life on earth billions of years ago. The best way to preserve this link is by naming them something that will stick in our minds instead of boring old Latin names that get left on a shelf. Here are some of the more memorable. The fossil of a 15 million year old snake with giant teeth: Montypythonoides riversleighensis. And how about the extinct moth named Carmenelectra shechisme. Okay that guy was just dreaming. On National Fossil Day dig up some cool facts of your own about the weird science that continues to teach us from the dust.
According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the most expensive dessert in the world is The Frrrozen Haute Chocolate ice cream sundae from the restaurant Serendipity 3. This frozen dessert is made with a blend of the 14 priciest cocoas and 23-karat gold flakes. It's served in a goblet lined with edible gold. But wait—there's more! If you order this confection, you get to keep the goblet, the tennis bracelet that's wrapped around the base, and the gold spoon! And all for the low, low—I mean ridiculous price of $25,000! In case you're wondering, the previous record for the most expensive dessert was a mere $1,000. Talk about inflation! On National Dessert Day treat yourself to something delicious and don't be afraid to go over the top!
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How Do You Get Your Brain In Shape?
Welcome to October 13, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate getting pumped and the birthday of a fighting spirit!
Today’s celebration is about pumping you up! No, I’m not talking about your muscles girly man, I’m talking about that under used super organ between your ears. It’s estimated that we only use a small fraction of the true potential of our brains and if you need more motivation think about this. Everything you see in the world around you was created in someone’s head. That means the 3 pounds of gray matter you now own was responsible for taking us out of the stone age into the age of computers and rockets. So how much heavy lifting are you doing these days? On National Train Your Brain Day get cracking! Even if it's only lifting a pencil to your favorite puzzle.
On October 13th, 1775, the Second Continental Congress formally established what became the United States Navy. The most famous of the American captains from that era, or any era, was John Paul Jones. In 1779, he engaged the 44-gun Royal Navy frigate Serapis. His ship was burning and sinking, but Jones refused to surrender to the British and uttered one of the most famous quotes ever: “I have not yet begun to fight.” And, it turns out, he hadn't. Three hours after he made this declaration, the British ship surrendered to him and Jones took command. Today is the Navy's Birthday and we celebrate the men and women who carry on Captain Jones’s fighting spirit to this day.
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Have You Been Waiting All Year To Kick Some Butt? This Day Was Made Just For You!
Welcome to October 12, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate kicking butt in our homes and in the field.
If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines of life not achieving much of anything these days you’re not alone. Maybe it’s time for good pep talk and whether you need more focus or self confidence consider this day your wakeup call. Start writing that novel. Call that client you’ve been avoiding. Get off the couch and get to the gym. You’re never going to reach that goal until you start moving toward it! As the saying goes: The only place ‘success’ comes before ‘work’ is in the dictionary. On National Kick Butt Day, do just that. Hey folks, this is your butt calling, time to kick me into high gear.
Farmer’s Day has been celebrated since the mid 1800s and it's easy to see why. These folks contribute to more than just the food on our table. From early on in history, farmers set the example for hard work and their products affect many industries from manufacturing to transportation. For proof you can look to a host of products from leather goods to textiles and even ethanol in our gas tanks. These days it's more important than ever to support your local farmers by purchasing from markets and visiting restaurants that take pride in their farm to table menus. On National Farmer’s Day, take time to appreciate a way of life that sustains us all.
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Do You Still Have A Pair Of Roller Skates? If So You Could Be Skating Through The Whole Month!
Welcome to October 11, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate brave exits and entrances.
Many brave Americans fought in the Revolutionary War, but the colonists didn’t fight alone. Other European nations who were not fond of the British were willing to lend a helping hand. One of the most prominent was Polish General Casimir Pulaski. After being exiled from his homeland where he had fought against the invading Russian army, Pulaski made his way to Paris, where he met Benjamin Franklin, who recruited him for the war against Great Britain. In America, he became one of George Washington’s most valuable field commanders, winning key battles for the Continental Army. While trying to liberate Savannah, Georgia, he was fatally wounded, but not before saving hundreds of troops. On General Pulaski Memorial Day, we celebrate this brave hero who sacrificed his life to help start a country that wasn’t even his own.
In the mid 1700s, when inventor John Joseph Merlin rolled his way into a lavish London party wearing his newly invented roller skates, he literally crashed the party. Sustaining only minor injuries, this guy really knew how to make an entrance. Since then roller skates have become a favorite pastime as we cruise to our favorite tunes in roller rinks and glide down sidewalks with the wind in our hair. And while roller blades have taken their design place, nothing can compare to a brand new pair of roller skates and skate parties under the disco ball. On National Roller Skating Month enjoy living the dream that John Joseph Merlin could only imagine.
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Can A Competitive Pastime Inspire World Peace? At The Height Of The Cold War This Moment Will Certainly Be Remembered For It's Unifying Spirit!
Welcome to October 10, 2020 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate moments of heaven on earth and world peace.
Miracles by their very nature are mysterious and so is the origin of the angel food cake. It is believed that in 1883 a recipe from India was gifted to a family that operated a quiet, picturesque boarding house along the Hudson River. The owner was a skilled cake maker who took her friend’s recipe and perfected it in secret, often baking only one cake at a time behind closed doors. The lighter than air results became the favorite dessert of First Lady Lucy Webb Hayes, who was delighted by this curious confection from the East. On National Angel Food Cake, enjoy the not so illusive cake which can be purchased in almost any store. Though if you’re baking one at home, you may want to pray for a miracle.
During the Cold War, the Soviet Union seemed to be invincible…at the game of chess. For decades, every single world championship was won by a Soviet player. When an American named Bobby Fischer made it to the championships in 1972, the whole world was watching to see what would happen. Fischer lost the first two matches to the reigning champ Boris Spassky and it looked like the streak would continue for the Soviets. Then Fischer staged one of the greatest comebacks in the history of competitive chess. His performance was so impressive that the crowd broke out into applause after his win. Even Spassky stood up and applauded. On National Chess Day, celebrate the ultimate game of strategy that can bring the world together.
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