April 24

Scott Winters April 24, 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:

1833 – A patent was granted for first soda fountain.

1889 – The Edison General Electric Company was organized.

1897 – William Price became the first to be named White House news reporter.

1941 – Detroit Tank sent their first unit to the U.S. Army. By the end of World War II, the plant had built 22,000 tanks.

1953 – Winston Churchill was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II.

1959 – Air Force Captain John S. Lappo, of Muskegon, MI, flew a state of the art Boeing B-47 jet underneath the Mackinac Bridge.

1961 – Sandy Koufax, of the Los Angeles Dodgers, struck out 18 batters becoming the first major-league pitcher to do so on two different occasions.

1961 – President John F. Kennedy accepted “sole responsibility” following Bay of Pigs invasion of Cuba.

1962 – MIT sent a TV signal by satellite for the first time.

1973 – Albert Sabin reported that herpes viruses were factors in nine kinds of cancer.

1981 – IBM introduced the first personal computer.

1990 – The Space Shuttle Discovery blasted off from Cape Canaveral, FL. It was carrying the $1.5 billion Hubble Space Telescope.

1996 – Margot Kidder was placed in a psychiatric ward after being found dirty, dazed, and fearful in a stranger’s backyard in Glendale, CA.

1998 – ABC confirmed that it was canceling “Ellen”, the first TV series to feature an openly gay lead character.

2005 – Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger was inaugurated as the 265th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church taking the name Pope Benedict XVI.

2007 – Sheryl Crow called for a ban on using too much toilet paper in order to help the environment. The singer suggested using “only one square per restroom visit, except, of course, on those pesky occasions where two or three could be required”.

2018 – Streaming music services overtook worldwide sales of CDs and vinyl records for the first time.

BIRTHDAYS:

Shirley MacLaine – 91 years old (1934) – Actress (“Terms of Endearment”, “The Turning Point”, “Irma la Douce”, “The Apartment”, “Some Came Running”, “Bernie”, “Being There”, “Valentine’s Day”, “Coco Chanel”, “Bewitched”, “Rumor Has It”, TV’s “Shirley’s World”, “Downton Abbey”)

Barbra Streisand – 83 years old (1942) – Singer, actress (“Funny Girl”, “Meet the Fockers”)

Richard Sterban – 82 years old (1943) – Singer (The Oak Ridge Boys)

Doug Clifford – 80 years old (1945) – Drummer (Creedence Clearwater Revival)

Bob Lunn – 80 years old (1945) – Golfer

Eric Bogosian – 72 years old (1953) – Actor (“Talk Radio”, “Wonderland”)

Jack Blades – 71 years old (1954) – Bass guitarist (Night Ranger, Damn Yankees)

Michael O’Keefe – 70 years old (1955) – Actor (“Caddyshack”, “The Great Santini”)

Boris Williams – 68 years old (1957) – Drummer (The Cure)

Glenn Morshower – 66 years old (1959) – Actor (TV’s “24”)

Billy Gould – 62 years old (1963) – Bass guitarist (Faith No More)

Cedric the Entertainer – 61 years old (1964) – Actor, comedian (“The Honeymooners”, “Be Cool”, “Man of the House”, the “Barbershop” movies, TV’s “Steve Harvey Show”)

Djimon Hounsou – 61 years old (1964) – Actor (“Blood Diamond”, “In America”, “Beauty Shop”, “Gladiator”, “Amistad”)

Omar Vizquel – 58 years old (1967) – Baseball player, coach (Detroit Tigers 2014-2017)

Melinda Clarke – 56 years old (1969) – Actress (TV’s “The OC”)

Brian Marshall – 52 years old (1973) – Bass guitarist (Creed)

Derek Luke – 51 years old (1974) – Actor (“Antwone Fisher”, “Biker Boyz”, “Glory Road”)

Eric Balfour – 48 years old (1977) – Actor (TV’s “Six Feet Under”, “24”)

Rebecca Mader – 48 years old (1977) – Actress (TV’s “All My Children”, “Lost”, “Justice”)

Danny Gokey – 45 years old (1980) – Singer (3rd place finished on TV’s “The American Idol: Season 8”)

Austin Nichols – 45 years old (1980) – Actor (TV’s “One Tree Hill”, movies “The Day After Tomorrow”, “Wimbledon”). Born in Ann Arbor, MI.

Kelly Clarkson – 43 years old (1982) – Singer (Finished first in the first season of TV’s “American Idol”)

TODAY IS:

Help Animals Day: Supporting vulnerable creatures, lending a hand to those in need, creating a haven for the voiceless and defenseless.
International Girls in ICT Day: International Girls in ICT Day highlights the need for more young women and girls in the information and communication technology (ICT) sector. This global initiative encourages girls to pursue careers in technology, aiming to bridge the gender gap in this field. How to Celebrate International Girls in ICT Day Celebrating International...
New Kids on the Block Day: If you were born in Generation X or early Millennials, you probably remember the excitement around New Kids on the Block! This iconic boy band dominated the music scene with their catchy hits and energetic performances. Their influence was so significant that they even had a special day dedicated to celebrating...
National Pig in a Blanket Day: Sausage or hot dog, wrapped in dough, cooked to perfect, this popular finger food can be found everywhere from weddings to children’s birthday parties.
National Teach Your Children to Save Day: Teaching your kid how to handle money could be the difference between a stressful and difficult life, and a comfortable one. Take some time to set them up.
World Day For Animals In Laboratories: In a year, there is one day—the World Day for Animals in Laboratories—when due tribute is paid and action is initiated on behalf of the millions of animals used for testing and experiments in laboratories across the world. That day should raise awareness, reflect on the ethical implications of animal...
Scream Day: Self care is important, but it doesn’t always mean good-smelling candles, bubble baths, and meditation. Sometimes you just need the catharsis of a good scream.
National Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day: Offices, clinics, studios, and stores open their doors to curious young eyes on a special day each year. National Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day brings kids into the real world of jobs—not just to observe, but to imagine. They see how adults solve problems, meet deadlines, and...
Firefly Day: Though it only had one season, Firefly quickly grew a cult following of geeks and sci-fi lovers. The iconic space opera has remained popular for over 20 years.
National Bucket List Day: Everyone has dreams—big or small—that they hope to experience one day. National Bucket List Day is a reminder to stop waiting and start doing. It’s about more than just grand adventures or far-off travels. Even small goals, like trying a new hobby or reconnecting with an old friend, count. This...
International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace: The International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace is a significant day celebrated worldwide to mark the commitment to the principles of peaceful conflict resolution and the importance of multilateral decision-making and diplomacy. How to Celebrate Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace Day Celebrating the International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy...
Love Your Thighs Day: They move you, lift you, and take you where you need to go, so toss your insecurities aside and appreciate the power, utility, and beauty of your thighs.
The First Day of Summer in Iceland: The First Day of Summer in Iceland is a national celebration that brings excitement despite the often chilly weather. This unique holiday marks the beginning of brighter days after the long, dark winter. While the weather might still feel wintry, Icelanders embrace the occasion with enthusiasm. The day is filled with...
Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day: Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day is a solemn occasion dedicated to remembering the tragic events that took place over a century ago. On this day, communities around the world honor the memory of those who lost their lives. It’s a time of reflection and acknowledgment of the suffering endured by countless...
Every Kid Healthy Week: Nurturing vibrant habits, fostering active play, and embracing wholesome choices, helping children discover the joy of balanced living.
Lesbian Visibility Week: To build awareness, create safe and healthy work environments, ‘normalize’ relationships, and allow lesbian voices to be heard, Lesbian Visibility Week provides various opportunities to build a society of inclusion. This event works to promote LGBTQIA women along with non-binary people in every field, from every generation, to every country...
Animal Cruelty / Human Violence Awareness Week: Animal Cruelty/Human Violence Awareness Week is observed annually to shed light on the undeniable connection between abusing animals and harming humans. This observance week creates awareness of the need to understand the intersectional nature of these issues and for societal change to end the cruelty. It also promotes education about...
Make Mine Chocolate: "Make Mine Chocolate" is a lively campaign urging people to think twice before giving live rabbits as Easter gifts. The campaign encourages people to opt for chocolate bunnies instead. This approach helps spread the message of responsible pet ownership while offering a sweet alternative that won't end up in shelters...
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...
American Camp Week: American Camp Week, celebrated annually from April 24 to April 30, sparks excitement among camp enthusiasts across the United States. This week highlights the joys and benefits of camping, a beloved outdoor activity that has long been a part of American culture. It's a time when both kids and adults...
National Princess Week: When you think of a princess, images of elegance, courage, and kindness come to mind. National Princess Week celebrates these traits, inviting everyone to embrace their inner royalty. This special week, started by Julie Andrews, Disney, and Target, is a chance to enjoy the magic and charm associated with princesses...
Gathering of Nations (Pow Wow): The Gathering of Nations (Pow Wow) in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is an event like no other. Thousands of dancers, drummers, musicians, and artisans from over 500 tribes across the U.S. and Canada come together to celebrate their heritage. The event features stunning dance and music performances, with participants proudly displaying...
National Pediatric Transplant Week: Each year, thousands of children across the world benefit from the life-saving medical intervention that comes through organ donation. But the list of those in need of organ donors is long and these younger patients often have to wait for a great deal of time for matches because of complex...
Administrative Professionals Week: In offices around the globe, desks become stages of gratitude during Administrative Professionals Week. Teams come together, celebrating those who keep the gears turning. Imagine the scene: colorful bouquets and heartfelt notes replace reports and spreadsheets. Managers pause meetings to say "thank you," acknowledging the often unseen dedication of their...
National Volunteer Week : Contributing time and effort, volunteering fosters positive change, enriching lives, and creating a ripple of goodwill in communities.
National Sky Awareness Week: Humans go through life each day looking at the buildings, cars, computer screens, and other people around them, but it seems like a rare event that they will spend time being aware of the sky. National Sky Awareness Week seeks to remind people of all ages that there is something interesting...
National Park Week: Say hello to beautiful plants, native wildlife, natural landscapes, and unique terrains because it’s time to celebrate and enjoy National Park Week! History of National Park Week The first National Park Week was celebrated in 1991 when it was declared by US President George H.W. Bush to honor the 75th anniversary...
Coin Week: Begin or grow your coin collection, learn about how countries’ mints reflect their history, or join a coin club or even local competition during Coin Week.