May 3

Scott Winters May 3, 2025 1 Comment

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:

1802 – The city of Washington, DC was incorporated.

1881 – Leonidas G. Woolley received a patent for the first electric locomotive headlight.

1888 – Thomas Edison organized the Edison Phonograph Works.

1921 – West Virginia imposed the first state sales tax.

1927 – Francis E.J. Wilde of Meadowmere Park, NY, patented the electric sign flasher.

1933 – The U.S. Mint was under the direction of a woman for the first time when Nellie Ross took the position.

1937 – Margaret Mitchell won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction for her novel “Gone with the Wind”.

1944 – Wartime rationing of most grades of meats ended in the U.S.

1948 – TV’s “The CBS Evening News” debuted as a 15 minute nightly telecast. It has gone on to become the longest running network newscast.

1948 – The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that covenants prohibiting the sale of real estate to blacks and other minorities were legally unenforceable.

1952 – The Kentucky Derby was televised nationally for the first time on CBS.

1952 – Joseph Fletcher and William Benedict become the first people to land a plane at the North Pole.

1966 – The game “Twister” was featured on the “Tonight Show” with Johnny Carson.

1967 – Carl Wilson (Beach Boys) went to court on draft evasion charges.

1971 – National Public Radio broadcast for the first time.

1971 – James Earl Ray, Martin Luther King’s assassin, was caught in a jailbreak attempt.

1973 – The 108-story Sears Tower (now Willis Tower) in Chicago, IL was topped out at 1,451 feet as the world’s tallest building at the time.

1978 – Digital Equipment Corp. sent an unsolicited email to every west coast ARPANET address. It was the first SPAM email.

1986 – In NASA’s first post-Challenger launch, an unmanned Delta rocket lost power in its main engine shortly after liftoff. Safety officers destroyed it by remote control.

1986 – Dollywood (Dolly Parton’s theme park) opened in Pigeon Forge, TN.

1988 – The White House acknowledged that first lady Nancy Reagan had used astrological advice to help schedule her husband’s activities.

1991 – The final episode of TV’s “Dallas” airs on CBS television. It lasted 13 seasons in prime time.

1992 – Five days of rioting and looting ended in Los Angeles, CA. The riots, that killed 53 people, began after the acquittal of police officers in the beating of Rodney King.

1999 – Mark Manes, at age 22, was arrested for supplying a gun to Eric Harris and Dylan Kleibold, who later killed 13 people at Columbine High School in Colorado.

1999 – Hasbro released the first collection of toys for the Star Wars movie “Episode I: The Phantom Menace.”

1999 – The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed above 11,000 for the first time.

1999 – The southwestern portion of Oklahoma City, OK was destroyed by an F5 tornado that killed 45 people and injured 665. The storm caused $1 billion in damages. This tornado produced the highest wind speed every recorded at 301 +/- 20 miles per hour.

2000 – The sport of geocaching began. The first cache was placed with the coordinates from a GPS posted on Usenet.

2000 – The trial of two Libyans accused of killing 270 people in the bombing of Pan Am flight 103 (over Lockerbie) opened.

2001 – Tina Wesson, a 40 year old nurse from Tennessee, became the second “Survivor” grand prize winner, edging out Colby Donaldson for the million dollar prize. Nearly 34 million viewers tune in to the two hour live broadcast.

2002 – The movie Spider-Man, starring Tobey Maguire as Peter Parker, was released in theaters.

2006 – In Alexandria, VA, Al-Quaida conspirator Zacarias Moussaoui was given a sentence of life in prison for his role in the terrorist attack on the U.S. on September 11, 2001.

2007 – A videotape of a bombed David Hasselhoff sitting on the floor eating a hamburger, shirtless and in jeans, is aired by the TV shows “The Insider”, “Entertainment Tonight” and “Extra”.

2018 – A black bear wandered into a west side neighborhood in Grand Rapids, MI. He had climbed a tree. He was tranquilized by the DNR, and relocated to the wild near Houghton Lake, MI the same day.

2018 – Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan became the NFL’s first $30 million per season player after agreeing to $150 million contract extension.

BIRTHDAYS:

Frankie Valli – 91 years old (1934) – Singer (The Four Seasons)

Christopher Cross – 74 years old (1951) – Singer (“Ride Like the Wind”, “Sailing”, “Arthur’s Theme”)

Bruce Hall – 72 years old (1953) – Bass guitarist (REO Speedwagon)

David Ball – 66 years old (1959) – Musician (Soft Cell, “Tainted Love”)

Bobby Cannavale – 55 years old (1970) – Actor (TV’s “Third Watch”, “100 Centre Street”, “Will & Grace”, “Cold Case”, “Boardwalk Empire”, “Vinyl”)

Christina Hendricks – 50 years old (1975) – Actress (TV’s “Mad Men”)

Dulé Hill – 50 years old (1975) – Actor (TV’s “The West Wing”, “Psych”)

Farrah Franklin – 44 years old (1981) – Singer (Destiny’s Child)

Cheryl Burke – 41 years old (1984) – Dancer (TV’s “Dancing with the Stars”)

Mary Lambert – 36 years old (1989) – Singer, songwriter

TODAY IS:

Wordsmith Day: Wordsmith Day honors the magic and impact of well-crafted words! This special day recognizes those who masterfully manipulate language—authors, poets, editors, and other writers—celebrating their ability to weave words into compelling stories and impactful messages. How to Celebrate Wordsmith Day The celebration acknowledges the profound impact that writers can have on our thoughts...
Kentucky Derby: The Kentucky Derby holds a title that it truly deserves: "The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports." But, despite what you might think, the 1.5-mile race isn’t limited to the horse racing crowd. Rather, this race is an emblem of tradition. It holds a special place in American sporting culture...
Free Comic Book Day: Dive into a new world, or revisit an old favorite by supporting your local comic book store and the people who create such magnificent worlds and characters.
National Paranormal Day: Put on your favorite paranormal flick or show, listen to a paranormal podcast, or read stories of real-life paranormal activity—but maybe leave the lights on.
International Astronomy Day: Visit a museum or planetarium, chart the stars, or see how many constellations you can find to celebrate the vast and wonderful beauty of space and astronomy.
International Wild Koala Day: International Wild Koala Day shines a light on koalas' plight and the critical need to preserve their habitats. This awareness campaign emphasizes the unique place koalas hold in Australia's wildlife. The day inspires everyone, from individuals to organizations, to engage in conservation efforts. How to Celebrate International Wild Koala Day Support Koala Conservation...
National Homebrew Day: A delightful way to create unique and delicious craft beers. From sweet and fruity to hoppy and bold, the possibilities are endless.
Beer Pong Day: Gather your friends, set up the table and get ready for an epic game of beer pong. Perfect your aim, master your bounce shots and don't forget to stock up on cups, balls and beer, it's gonna be a wild ride!
National Fitness Day: Get ready to lace up your sneakers! National Fitness Day falls on the first Saturday of May, so it is a time to get active. This day sparks excitement for everyone, from avid gym-goers to those just starting their fitness journeys. It's all about celebrating the joy and benefits of...
Sun Day: Embracing warmth and radiance, basking in the vibrant glow that uplifts spirits and infuses joy into everyday moments.
AAPI Women’s Equal Pay Day: AAPI Women's Equal Pay Day is an important day that sheds light on the wage disparities faced by Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander women. On this day, we highlight that these women, on average, earn only 80 cents for every dollar paid to white, non-Hispanic men. This gap becomes...
Print Day in May: Crafting art through unique print techniques, artists carve stories onto paper, a canvas of creativity and expression.
Write a Review Day: Be a hero to businesses and shoppers alike! Sharing your thoughts and experiences can guide others to the best products and services.
World Naked Gardening Day: Truly get back to nature by getting your hands dirty and spending time in your garden, entirely in the nude. Don’t forget the sunscreen, or your skin may suffer.
National Garden Meditation Day: Meditation and nature can both boost your mood, improve your focus and memory, and calm your emotions, so join them together by practicing meditation in a garden.
Join Hands Day: Help organize or join an event to benefit your community on Join Hands Day, a day dedicated to coming together with others to make things better.
World Labyrinth Day: Explore the intricate beauty of labyrinths, revealing pathways that invite contemplation, offering a unique journey within oneself.
Wildfire Community Preparedness Day: Wildfires can devastate communities, cities, and entire regions, so donate to relief efforts, and learn how to prevent and respond to wildfires.
National Two Different Colored Shoes Day: Walk your own walk and show your individuality by wearing two different colored shoes, an exercise to get you to reject limiting social norms and enjoying life.
National Chocolate Custard Day: Indulge in this rich and decadent dessert made with velvety smooth chocolate and a creamy texture that will leave you wanting more.
National Textiles Day: Weaving threads into art, intricate patterns tell stories of craftsmanship, connecting heritage and innovation seamlessly.
Bereaved Mother’s Day: Bereaved Mother’s Day gently holds space for mothers who carry loss in their hearts. It honors women whose children have died—whether in the womb, in infancy, childhood, or later. These mothers are often left out of the larger story, their grief tucked away in silence. On this day, that silence softens...
Start Seeing Monarchs Day: Monarch butterflies are fascinating, majestic creatures filled with grace and beauty given by nature. These black and orange migratory creatures can be found in prairies and grasslands, lighting upon various flowers to sip their nectar. National Start Seeing Monarchs Day brings attention to the threat these butterflies have to their habitat...
National Public Radio Day: Tuning the dial to a familiar voice can feel like catching up with an old friend. That’s the magic of National Public Radio Day. It celebrates the stations that bring people news, ideas, and stories without asking for anything in return. Listeners often trust these voices to explain the world...
Herb Day: Herb Day celebrates the small but mighty plants that grow in gardens, pots, and windowsills around the world. These green gems bring flavor to food, comfort to the body, and calm to the mind! How to Celebrate Herb Day Herb Day offers the perfect chance to reconnect with nature, explore fresh...
National Montana Day: National Montana Day is all about celebrating the beauty and spirit of Big Sky Country. Towering mountains stretch across the land, rolling prairies seem to go on forever, and clear rivers carve their way through it all. This wild, open space calls to adventurers, dreamers, and anyone who feels at...
National EOD Day: Not many people think about the experts who deal with hidden explosives. These experts are called Explosive Ordnance Disposal, or EOD, technicians. They step forward when others step back. Their job is to find and safely remove deadly devices. It could be anything from roadside bombs to old military shells...
National Anxiety Disorders Screening Day: Imagine waking up and feeling like your heart is racing, your thoughts are spiraling, and even simple tasks seem overwhelming. For many, this is a daily reality. National Anxiety Disorders Screening Day shines a light on these experiences, offering a moment to pause and consider mental well-being. It's a day...
International Pilates Day: Pilates is a form of exercise that focuses on controlled movements to strengthen the core, improve posture, and enhance flexibility. It emphasizes mindful movement and breathing, making it accessible to people of all fitness levels. Practicing Pilates can lead to better balance, increased muscle tone, and a sense of well-being. It's...
International Drone Day: International Drone Day is a global event that celebrates the growing role of drones in our lives. People from different backgrounds come together to fly drones, share experiences, and learn about the technology. They share stories, fly their devices, and explore the endless possibilities drones offer. From capturing stunning aerial...
Childhood Stroke Awareness Day : Most people don’t expect a child to have a stroke, but it can happen, even in babies. Childhood Stroke Awareness Day raises attention to this often-overlooked health issue. A stroke in kids looks different from one in adults, which makes it harder to spot. Quick action matters. Every second counts...
World Ankylosing Spondylitis Day: Ankylosing spondylitis—also known as AS—is a long-term condition that mainly targets the spine, causing pain and stiffness. It can also affect the hips, shoulders, and even the eyes. This condition doesn’t just bring physical discomfort—it can slowly change how someone walks, sleeps, and lives. While the symptoms may come and go...
National Play Outside Day: Imagine a day when families, friends, and neighbors step away from screens and head outdoors together. National Play Outside Day encourages everyone, regardless of age, to embrace the joys of outdoor activities. Whether it's playing catch in the backyard, exploring a local park, or simply enjoying the fresh air, this...
National Bombshells’ Day: Confidence looks different on everyone, and National Bombshells' Day leans into that truth. This upbeat day invites women to feel good about themselves, inside and out. It’s about honoring beauty in all forms—loud or quiet, bold or calm. There's no mold to fit, no standard to chase. Whether someone rocks...
National Specially-abled Pets Day: National Specially-Abled Pets Day shines a light on animals with disabilities who refuse to let challenges slow them down. Some may be blind, deaf, or missing a limb, yet they still run, play, and love just as deeply. This day celebrates their strength and the joy they bring to the...
National Raspberry Popover Day: National Raspberry Popover Day is all about the joy of warm, golden pastries bursting with sweet, juicy raspberries. Fresh from the oven, these delicate treats puff up like little clouds, their crisp edges giving way to a soft, airy center. Each bite is a perfect mix of tart berries and...
National SAN Architect Day: National SAN Architect Day celebrates the unsung heroes who manage our data storage systems. These professionals, known as Storage Area Network (SAN) architects, ensure the smooth operation of data systems. They work behind the scenes, maintaining data integrity and security. Their role is crucial for both large corporations and small...
National Scrapbook Day: Capturing moments through pictures, creative designs, and memorabilia — a great way to cherish and share memories with loved ones.
National Lumpy Rug Day: Take stock of your home décor and see if you can’t smooth out the lumps in your rugs. Or, try taking them to an expert or updating your home with new ones.
World Press Freedom Day : World Press Freedom Day casts a spotlight on the daunting challenges journalists face worldwide. It underscores the pressing need for free journalism as a cornerstone of democracy. Journalists often navigate threats, suppression, and physical harm to report the truth. This day emphasizes the essential nature of their work in shedding light...
National Physical Education and Sport Week: National Physical Education and Sport Week kicks off a lively month dedicated to fitness and sports. It's a period that highlights the crucial roles health and physical education play in developing lifelong healthy habits! How to Celebrate National Physical Education and Sport Week Celebrating National Physical Education and Sport Week is...
Tracky Dack Day: Tracky Dack Day is a funny name for a serious cause. This annual event, run by TLC for Kids, encourages people to wear their favorite track pants (aka 'tracky dacks'!) to support children in hospitals! The name brings a smile, but the mission is profound. It raises awareness and funds...