May 8

Scott Winters May 8, 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:

1794 – The United States Post Office was established.

1847 – The rubber tire was patented by Robert W. Thompson. He called them “air wheels”.

1877 – At Gilmore’s Gardens in New York, NY, the first Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show opened.

1879 – George Selden applied for the first automobile patent.

1886 – Pharmacist Dr. John Styth Pemberton invented a medicinal carbonated beverage that would later be called “Coca-Cola”.

1912 – Paramount Pictures was founded.

1914 – The U.S. Congress passed a Joint Resolution that designated the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day.

1915 – H.P. Whitney’s Regret became the first filly to win the Kentucky Derby.

1919 – The first transatlantic flight took-off by a navy seaplane.

1921 – The world’s first riding lawnmower was introduced by the Ideal Power Mower Company of Lansing, MI. The mower company was sold to the Indian Motorcycle Co. in 1945.

1942 – A plant in Kalamazoo, MI turned out the first World War II amphibious cargo carrier.

1945 – President Harry Truman announced that World War II had ended in Europe. Germany unconditionally surrendered to Allied troops. The war in Europe ended and VE day was proclaimed.

1956 – Alfred E. Neuman appeared on the cover of “Mad Magazine” for the first time.

1958 – President Dwight Eisenhower ordered the National Guard out of Little Rock, AR, as Ernest Green became the first black to graduate from an Arkansas public school.

1959 – Mike and Marian Ilitch founded “Little Caesars Pizza Treat” in Garden City, MI.

1961 – New Yorkers selected a new name for their new National League baseball franchise. They chose the Mets.

1963 – The first James Bond movie, “Doctor No”, is released in the US.

1973 – Carolyn King, of Ypsilanti, MI, became the first girl to play in Little League.

1976 – The rollercoaster “The New Revolution”, the first steel coaster with a vertical loop, opened at Six Flags Magic Mountain.

1977 – County Commissioners in Parker County voted Buck Naked, Texas, out of existence. It was decided that Buck Naked’s road signs caused too many misunderstandings. Originally, residents chose the name as a joke.

1978 – New York’s “Son of Sam,” David Berkowitz, pleaded guilty to six murder charges.

1980 – The World Health Organization confirmed the eradication of smallpox.

1984 – The Soviet Union announced that they would not participate in the 1984 Summer Olympics Games in Los Angeles, CA.

1984 – Joanie (Erin Moran) and Chachi (Scott Baio) got married on the ABC television show “Happy Days”.

1986 – Reporters were told that 84,000 people had been evacuated from areas near the Chernobyl nuclear plant in Soviet Ukraine.

1997 – Larry King received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

1998 – Johnny Winter was inducted into Hollywood’s Rock Walk.

1999 – The first female cadet graduated from The Citadel military college.

2010 – Betty White hosted TV’s “Saturday Night Live”. At the age of 88, she set a record as the show’s oldest host.

2018 – The largest-ever wave was recorded in the South Hemisphere at Campbell Island by New Zealand scientists. The wave was 78 feet high.

2020 – Golf carts were once again allowed on Michigan golf courses. They had been banned due to COVID-19 restrictions.

BIRTHDAYS:

David Attenborough – 99 years old (1926) – Actor, environmentalist

Toni Tennille – 85 years old (1940) – Singer (The Captain and Tennille)

James Mitchum – 84 years old (1941) – Actor (“The Beat Generation”, “The Victors”, “Ride the Wild Surf”, “In Harm’s Way”, “Ambush Bay”, “The Invincible Six”, “The Last Movie”, “Moonrunners”)

Gary Glitter – 81 years old (1944) – Singer (“Rock and Roll Part Two”)

Phillip Bailey – 74 years old (1951) – Singer (Earth, Wind and Fire)

Chris Frantz – 74 years old (1951) – Drummer (Talking Heads)

Billy Burnette – 72 years old (1953) – Guitarist (Fleetwood Mac)

Alex Van Halen – 72 years old (1953) – Drummer (Van Halen)

David Keith – 71 years old (1954) – Actor (“An Officer and a Gentleman”, “The Lords of Discipline”, “Firestarter”,”White of the Eye”)

Eric Brittingham – 65 years old (1960) – Bass guitarist (Cinderella)

Melissa Gilbert – 61 years old (1964) – Actress (TV’s “Little House on the Prairie”)

Enrique Iglesias – 50 years old (1975) – Singer

Matthew Davis – 47 years old (1978) – Actor (“Legally Blonde”, “Blue Crush”, TV’s “The Vampire Diaries”, “What About Brian”)

TODAY IS:

No Socks Day: Go barefoot, dig out your sandals, or take the opportunity to stay home and let your feet relax, free of their usual prison of socks and constraining shoes.
World Ovarian Cancer Day: Research and spread awareness about ovarian cancer to help others recognize the dangers and signs early, and increase survival and recovery odds for many.
National Have a Coke Day: That effervescent beverage with the iconic red label, sparking joy and refreshment across generations with its timeless allure.
World Donkey Day: Visit a petting zoo, or simply do some research into the underappreciated, stalwart, useful and intelligent beasts of burden known as donkeys.
Free Trade Day: Dig into the benefits and disadvantages of free trade, and understand what this commonly tossed around phrase would really mean to the world economy.
Day of the Virgin of Luján: The Day of the Virgin of Luján honors Argentina’s patron saint and celebrates the deep connection between the Virgin Mary and the people. This occasion brings together millions of believers at the Basilica of Luján, creating a vibrant scene of faith and unity. Pilgrims from all corners of the country...
Iris Day: Get outside and pick some of nature’s most beautiful creations, the iris. If you can’t find any locally, think about planting some yourself, or drawing or painting them.
Make a Book Day: Make a Book Day is a vibrant celebration of creativity and storytelling. On this day, people from all walks of life are encouraged to delve into the world of bookmaking. It's a perfect opportunity for everyone, whether they're experienced writers or first-time authors, to explore their imagination and share their...
National Coconut Cream Pie Day: Creamy, dreamy, and bursting with tropical flavor, this delicious pie is the perfect dessert to transport you to a sun-soaked beach vacation.
National Amyloidosis Day: National Amyloidosis Day shines a light on a rare and often misunderstood disease. This day brings attention to amyloidosis, a condition where abnormal proteins accumulate in organs and tissues, disrupting their function. Many people, including healthcare professionals, lack awareness about this condition, which can lead to delayed diagnoses. Raising awareness...
Reward Yourself Day: Reward Yourself Day is a special occasion dedicated to celebrating personal achievements and embracing self-care. It's a moment to pause and acknowledge the progress made, no matter how small. Whether it's completing a challenging task or simply making it through a tough week, this day encourages individuals to treat themselves...
National Give Someone a Cupcake Day: Imagine surprising a friend or coworker with a sweet treat, just because. That’s the simple joy behind National Give Someone a Cupcake Day. It’s all about sharing a moment of kindness, one cupcake at a time. This little dessert carries a big message—care, thoughtfulness, and a sprinkle of fun. Whether frosted...
Truman Day: Truman Day is a state holiday in Missouri that honors Harry S. Truman, the 33rd President of the United States and the only president from Missouri. On this day, state offices close, and communities across Missouri hold various events to remember Truman's contributions to the nation. These events include educational sessions...
World Red Cross Day: Every year, people from all walks of life take a moment to recognize the quiet heroes of the world—Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers. These individuals don’t wear capes, but they show up when disaster strikes, bringing hope where it’s needed most. Whether responding to a flood, providing medical aid...
Pansexual Awareness Day: In a 2016 Harris Poll survey of 2,000 US adults commissioned by GLAAD, two percent of 18-34 year-olds self-identified as Pansexual and approximately one percent in all other age groups. It is for this demographic of people that Pansexual Awareness and Visibility Day was founded! How to Celebrate Pansexual Awareness and...
National Student Nurse Day: Student nurses take their first steps into a world where skill and compassion go hand in hand. National Student Nurse Day highlights their dedication, long hours, and commitment to learning the art of patient care. These future healthcare professionals balance rigorous studies with hands-on experience, preparing for a career that...
International Thalassaemia Day: Imagine a day when the world unites to shed light on a lesser-known genetic blood disorder. International Thalassaemia Day does just that, focusing attention on thalassaemia—a condition affecting the body's ability to produce hemoglobin, leading to anemia and other health challenges. This global event brings together patients, families, healthcare professionals...
White Lotus Day: White Lotus Day invites reflection. Theosophists gather to honor Helena Blavatsky, a key figure in their movement. The white lotus, rising pure from muddy waters, symbolizes the soul's journey toward enlightenment. This flower, central to the day's theme, represents purity and spiritual growth. The observance encourages contemplation on these ideals. The...
Victory Day: Victory Day stands as a powerful reminder of a significant moment in history. On this day, people honor the triumphs and sacrifices that shaped the world as we know it. It's a day that brings communities together, celebrating unity and peace. Whether through parades, speeches, or moments of reflection, the...
National Nurse’s Week: Give a big thank-you to the hard-working, often under-paid medical professionals who keep hospitals, rehab centers, nursing homes and hospice care running.
Children’s Book Week : Spark the joy of exploration in young minds through tales that open doors to realms of endless fascination and growth.
National Lawyer Well-Being Week: Lawyers have high-stress jobs, and yet are often the punchline of jokes. Join the Task Force on Lawyer Well-Being to see how you can support these crucial workers.
Teacher Appreciation Week : The unsung champions shaping tomorrow, deserve our gratitude for guiding and inspiring young minds on their incredible learning journeys.
Dog Anxiety Awareness Week: Dog Anxiety Awareness Week spotlights a common but often overlooked issue affecting our canine companions. This special week encourages dog owners to recognize and address the signs of anxiety in their pets, promoting a happier, healthier life for them! How to Celebrate Dog Anxiety Awareness Week Be a Detective for the...
National Pet Week: National Pet Week is a celebration of the special connection we share with our pets. It's a time to honor the animals that fill our lives with joy, whether they're loyal dogs, playful cats, or even fish or birds. Throughout this week, pet owners are encouraged to consider ways to...
Public Service Recognition Week: Public Service Recognition Week celebrates the dedicated work of public servants across the United States. These individuals include federal, state, county, local, and tribal government employees. They play vital roles in our daily lives, from delivering mail and teaching children to ensuring public safety and managing resources. This week is...
Screen-Free Week: Have you ever tried turning off your screens for a whole week? Imagine a week without your phone, computer, or TV. This is what Screen-Free Week is all about. It happens every year during the first week of May. During this time, people across the globe power down their devices...
Deaf Awareness Week: Deaf Awareness Week is the one week when society can really make an effort to raise public awareness of the issues that can affect deaf people and their culture. Society and its development are entwined with the growth of deaf communities and deaf education this week. It’s when we can...
National Tourism Week: Embark on journeys that unfold stories, connecting cultures, creating memories, and weaving the tapestry of global exploration.
Dying Matters Awareness Week: Dying Matters Awareness Week is a vibrant annual event in the UK. This week encourages open conversations about death, dying, and bereavement. It invites communities to break the silence around these often-taboo subjects to foster a more supportive environment for everyone facing these realities. How to Observe Dying Matters Week Host a...
Time Of Remembrance And Reconciliation: The Time of Remembrance and Reconciliation begins with a simple idea—remembering those who never returned from war. Behind every loss is a face, a voice, a life cut short. This day invites us to slow down and think about those people. Not as soldiers in a history book, but as someone’s...
National Wildflower Week : The opportunities for enjoying and celebrating National Wildflower Week are probably as vast and fascinating as the number of wildflower species there are in the world. And since there are at least 20,000 species of wildflowers in the US alone, that’s definitely a lot to celebrate! How to Celebrate National...
National Correctional Officer’s Week: National Correctional Officer's Week is a dedicated time to recognize the essential work correctional officers do every day. These officers play a critical role in maintaining safety and order in our nation's prisons and jails. Their work often goes unnoticed by the public, but it is vital for the security...
Drinking Water Week: Water is an essential resource that supports every aspect of our lives. Drinking Water Week highlights its importance, emphasizing how clean water is vital for health and community growth. This celebration educates the public on how water reaches our taps and the rigorous processes ensuring its safety. Communities celebrate this week...
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...
Air Quality Awareness Week: Without air, life on Earth would cease to exist! Clean air is necessary not only for humans and other animals, but also for plants and entire ecosystems to survive and thrive. When the quality of the air is compromised, it can affect the health of everyone – leading to health...