April 17

Scott Winters April 17, 2025 0 Comments

A quick look at Today in History, check out some Celebrity Birthdays, and find out what Days of the Year to celebrate.

TODAY IN HISTORY:

1629 – Horses were first imported into the colonies by the American Massachusetts Bay Colony.

1704 – John Campbell published what would eventually become the first successful American newspaper. It was known as the Boston “News-Letter.”

1810 – Pineapple cheese was patented by Lewis M. Norton.

1861 – Virginia became the eighth state to secede from the Union.

1865 – Mary Surratt was arrested as a conspirator in the President Abraham Lincoln assassination.

1907 – The Ellis Island immigration center processed 11,747 people…more than on any other day.

1917 – A bill in Congress to establish Daylight Saving Time was defeated. It was passed a couple of months later.

1937 – “Daffy Duck” made his debut in a “Porky Pig” cartoon titled “Duck Hunt”.

1941 – Igor Sikorsky accomplished the first successful helicopter lift-off from water near Stratford, CT.

1941 – The office of Price Administration was established in the U.S. to handle rationing.

1947 – Jackie Robinson (Brooklyn Dodgers) performed a bunt for his first major league hit.

1961 – About 1,400 U.S.-supported Cuban exiles invaded Cuba at the Bay of Pigs in an attempt to overthrow Fidel Castro. It was an unsuccessful attack.

1964 – Jerrie Mock became first woman to fly an airplane solo around the world.

1964 – The FBI lab reported that it could not determine the lyrics to “Louie Louie.”

1964 – The Ford Motor Company unveiled its new Mustang model. Base price was $2,368.

1967 – “The Joey Bishop Show” debuted on ABC-TV.

1967 – The U.S. Supreme Court barred Muhammad Ali’s request to be blocked from induction into the U.S. Army.

1969 – In Los Angeles, CA, Sirhan Sirhan was convicted of assassinating Senator Robert F. Kennedy.

1970 – Apollo 13 returned to Earth safely after an on-board accident with an oxygen tank.

1973 – George Lucas began writing the treatment for “The Star Wars”.

1973 – Federal Express (later shortened to just FedEx) began operations when 14 planes carrying 186 packages took off from Memphis (TN) International Airport, headed to 25 U.S. cities.

1980 – Lansing, MI police arrested three adult sisters. They had been running around naked after smearing mustard on their bodies. They said they were looking for the Garden of Eden.

1985 – The U.S. Postal Service unveiled its new 22-cent, “LOVE” stamp.

1993 – A federal jury in Los Angeles, CA, convicted two former police officers of violating the civil rights of beaten motorist Rodney King. Two other officers were acquitted.

1996 – Erik and Lyle Menendez were sentenced to life in prison without parole for killing their parents.

2002 – The television show “Ally McBeal” went off the air after five seasons.

2011 – The TV show “Game of Thrones” debuted on HBO.

2014 – NASA’s Kepler space telescope confirmed the discovery of the first Earth-size planet in the habitable zone of another star.

2021 – The funeral of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, took place at St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle.

BIRTHDAYS:

Dennis Hextall – 82 a old (1943) – Hockey player (Detroit Red Wings 1975-1979)

Jan Hammer – 77 a old (1948) – Composer, musician (TV’s “Miami Vice” Theme)

Pedro Garcia – 75 a old (1950) – Baseball player (Detroit Tigers 1976)

Michael Sembello – 71 a old (1954) – Composer, musician (“Maniac” from “Flashdance”)

Teri Austin – 68 a old (1957) – Actress (TV’s “Knots Landing”)

Nick Hornby – 68 a old (1957) – Novelist (“High Fidelity”, “About a Boy”, “Fever Pitch”, screenplay “An Education”)

Sean Bean – 66 a old (1959) – Actor (“Goldeneye”, “The Lord of the Rings” series)

Boomer Esiason – 64 a old (1961) – Football player, TV commentator

Lela Rochon – 61 a old (1964) – Actress (“Why Do Fools Fall in Love”, “Waiting to Exhale”)

William Mapother – 60 a old (1965) – Actor (TV’s “Lost)

Henry Ian Cusick – 58 a old (1967) – Actor (TV’s “Lost”, “Scandal”, “The 100”)

Kimberly Elise – 58 a old (1967) – Actress (“The Great Debaters”, “Pride”, “Diary of a Mad Black Woman”, “John Q”, “Beloved”, “Set It Off”, TV’s “Close to Home”)

Marquis Grissom – 58 a old (1967) – Baseball player

Liz Phair – 58 a old (1967) – Singer, songwriter

Redman – 55 a old (1970) – Rapper, actor (“How High”, “Seed of Chucky”)

Jennifer Anne Garner – 53 a old (1972) – Actress (“Daredevil”, “Electra”, “Alias”, “Draft Day”, “Dallas Buyers Club”, “The Odd Life of Timothy Green”, “Juno”, “13 Going on 30”, “The Kingdom”, “Catch and Release”)

Victoria Beckham – 51 a old (1974) – Singer (Posh Spice of the Spice Girls)

Rooney Mara – 40 a old (1985) – Actress (“Pan”, “Her”, “Side Effects”, “The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo”, “The Social Network”)

TODAY IS:

World Hemophilia Day: For some 400,000 people, simple papercuts, nicks, and scrapes can actually be dangerous or even life-threatening due to a blood disorder known as hemophilia.
National Ford Mustang Day: Look for an event or showcase near you to admire Ford Mustangs throughout the ages, and learn about the history of this popular every-mans sports car.
International Bat Appreciation Day: Bats can eat as many as 1,000 mosquitoes a day. Help preserve these crucial creatures by donating to a conservation, volunteering, or spreading awareness.
Malbec Day: Malbec Day is a celebration dedicated to one of Argentina’s most beloved wines. This day brings wine lovers together to toWorld ast the Malbec grape, which has become a symbol of Argentine winemaking. Originating from France, Malbec found its true home in Argentina’s sun-kissed vineyards. Over time, it has grown into...
International Haiku Poetry Day: Write your own Haiku. Take in other poet’s works. Let Haikus move you.
Herbalist Day: Every year at this time, Herbalist Day lights up our calendars, shining a spotlight on the age-old practice of herbalism. This special day honors those skilled in the art of healing with plants. Herbalists tap into the natural properties of herbs to promote health and well-being, making their craft an invaluable...
Nothing Like A Dame Day: Pull out some brash old films or recordings, visit the theater, or dress up to pay tribute to the bright ladies of the theater on Nothing Like a Dame Day.
No Limits for Deaf Children Day: No Limits for Deaf Children Day celebrates the strength and dreams of deaf children. It highlights their abilities and encourages everyone to support their growth. The day reminds us that, with the right support, deaf children can achieve anything. It also brings attention to the challenges they face, such as...
Teen Literature Day: Teen books open doors to new worlds, spark imagination, and make young readers feel seen. Celebrate Teen Literature Day honors those powerful stories written just for them. Whether it’s a thrilling mystery, a heartwarming friendship, or a bold adventure, teen lit gives voice to real struggles and bold dreams. These...
National Kickball Day: Revisit your childhood by gathering some friends, family, or co-workers and getting together a fun, light-hearted game of kickball. It’s not just for kids!
International Day of Mastering Conversations That Matter: International Day of Mastering Conversations That Matter celebrates the art of talking well and listening deeply. It focuses on making every word count in daily life. People learn to speak with clarity and kindness. It invites heartfelt talks that build trust and spark new possibilities. It encourages us to lift...
National Clean Out Your Medicine Cabinet Day: Tidying up the medicine stash ensures safety, preventing mishaps and creating a healthier environment at home.
National Cheeseball Day: Usually a mix of rich cheeses and creams, tasty spices, and a coating of almonds, the Cheeseball makes a perfect party dip, with a little extra flair.
Blah Blah Blah Day: Whether yourself or another talking, use Blah Blah Blah day to really focus on those things you have otherwise been tuning out, ignoring, and avoiding.
National Crawfish Day: Nothing says Southern tradition quite like a good crawfish boil. National Crawfish Day is all about celebrating these little freshwater creatures, packed with flavor and loved by many. Whether piled high on a plate or simmering in a spicy pot, crawfish bring people together. Their bright red shells, tender meat...
National Ellis Island Family History Day: A gateway to American dreams, it welcomed millions, symbolizing hope, resilience, and the immigrant experience in the U.S.
2A Day: 2A Day, celebrated on April 17 each year, is a significant occasion that honors the Second Amendment to the United States Constitution. This day recognizes the right of Americans to own and carry firearms, a principle enshrined in the nation's foundational documents. Deborah Lane first established it in 2019, marking...
Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival: The Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival springs to life in the Californian desert's heart. Under the blazing sun, festival-goers in vibrant outfits converge, excitement palpable in the air. Stages tower against the backdrop of palm trees and mountains, awaiting the electrifying performances of artists from across the globe. The...
Edinburgh Science Festival: The Edinburgh Science Festival transforms the Scottish capital into a hub buzzing with scientific discovery and innovation for two weeks every year. This event is among Europe's largest science festivals. The event for science lovers offers a unique blend of education, entertainment, and exploration for the thousands who attend it. History...
National Dog Bite Prevention Week: It is hard to think something as loyal as a dog could ever harm someone. But even the sweetest pup may react when afraid or stressed. National Dog Bite Prevention Week brings this truth into focus. It reminds people that bites often come from everyday situations—startling a dog, grabbing its toy...
Money Smart Week: Being smart with money isn't just about saving; it's also about making informed decisions and enjoying the process. Money Smart Week offers the perfect opportunity to dive into financial literacy and reconsider financial habits. In its essence, Money Smart Week is a lively event held annually to boost financial literacy...
Discover National Parks Fortnight: Discover National Parks Fortnight invites everyone to join in on an adventure - exploring the stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity of national parks. This fantastic outdoor-themed event spans two weeks each year. This period is the ideal opportunity to reconnect with the great outdoors and appreciate the environmental treasures within...
Global Youth Service Days: Global Youth Service Day gathers young people worldwide to roll up their sleeves and help their communities. It brings together schools, youth groups, and nonprofits to tackle local challenges. Young volunteers work on clean-ups, build things, pack food, or support neighbors in need. This event shows how loud youth voices...
FOP Awareness Month: Raising awareness for a rare condition, efforts unite to support those facing the challenges of Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva.
Week of the Young Child: The Week of the Young Child celebrates children and the adults who help them grow. It brings energy into classrooms, homes, and neighborhoods with joyful activities that spark learning. One day might focus on music, while another encourages building, cooking, or storytelling. Each moment invites kids to move, create, and...
National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week: From 9-1-1 emergency call operators and alarm systems to answering other non-emergency forms of communication such as texts, emails and social media contacts, public safety telecommunicators have a lot on the line every day when they show up for work! As technology rapidly advances and evolves, so do the opportunities for...
Global Days of Action on Military Spending: The Global Days of Action on Military Spending is a lively global campaign that invites people everywhere to rethink how public funds are used. It urges governments to shift resources from arms to real security, like health, education, and clean energy. When new military spending data arrives, advocates use the moment...
National Green Week: National Green Week is an exciting initiative that brings attention to the importance of environmental sustainability. Schools and organizations across the country use this week to engage students in activities that promote greener living. The event aims to inspire young minds to adopt eco-friendly habits that can make a lasting...
Hate Week: Hate Week acts as a mass event in George Orwell’s novel 1984. Citizens gather for parades, rallies, and propaganda shows. Party speakers whip crowds into fierce emotion. They scream slogans and chant new songs. That energy binds them together. It channels collective anger toward whichever enemy the state targets. A sudden...
Cartagena Film Festival: The Cartagena Film Festival shines as a vibrant celebration of cinema. It attracts filmmakers and movie lovers from all corners of the world and transforms Cartagena into a lively hub where stories come alive on screen. Films from various genres and countries are showcased, offering a diverse mix that keeps...
International Dark Sky Week: Recognizing that the prolific use of lighting has brought some severe problems to the modern world, International Dark Sky Week seeks to bring health and healing back to the world! How to Celebrate International Dark Sky Week Experience the Dark Night Sky One of the most ideal things to do during International...