Welcome to September 16th, where the leaves are turning, the coffee is getting pumpkin-spiced, and history is a grab-bag of weirdness. Today, we’ll take a joyful romp through the past, ponder some random questions, and maybe even help you plan for the weekend. So, grab your beverage of choice, and let’s dive into this delightful concoction of absurdity and wisdom.
1. General Motors Founded (1908): Start Your Engines, People
On this day in 1908, General Motors was founded by William C. Durant. Now, before you yawn and think, “What’s so special about a car company?” just remember: without GM, we might still be riding around on horses, or worse — segways. Imagine a world where your morning commute involves an awkward balancing act, and you’ll suddenly appreciate that car in your driveway a whole lot more.
Random thought: Cars today have come a long way since the early GM models. We’ve got backup cameras, Bluetooth, and even self-driving cars now. But do you know what we still don’t have? Cupholders that can hold a Big Gulp without spilling. Priorities, GM. Priorities.
2. Mexico Celebrates Independence (1810): Viva la Fiesta!
Happy Mexican Independence Day! On this day in 1810, the priest Miguel Hidalgo rang the church bell and called for Mexico’s independence from Spain, sparking a revolution. It’s a major holiday in Mexico, so if you hear fireworks today or see people partying with colorful flags, now you know why.
To celebrate, why not treat yourself to some tacos or a margarita? (Preferably both. You’ve earned it.) Just make sure not to confuse Cinco de Mayo with this holiday — it’s not the same thing, and you don’t want to be that person at the party.
3. The First Use of Penicillin (1940): A Moldy Miracle
Let’s give a shoutout to penicillin, first used successfully on this day in 1940. Sir Alexander Fleming discovered it in 1928, but it wasn’t until September 16, 1940, that it saved its first human life. Penicillin was essentially the Superman of antibiotics — except it didn’t wear a cape (though maybe it should have). Without it, we’d still be treating infections with leeches, and no one wants that.
Next time you get prescribed antibiotics, take a moment to silently thank the mold that started it all. Isn’t it amazing how something so gross could save millions of lives? That’s the ultimate glow-up.
4. National Guacamole Day: Avocado Fans Unite!
Let’s talk about National Guacamole Day because, frankly, any holiday that involves mashed avocados is a holiday worth celebrating. Whether you’re a fan of chunky guac, smooth guac, or “hold the cilantro” guac (I’m watching you, cilantro haters), this is your day to indulge.
Random thought: Why are avocados so temperamental? They’re either rock-hard or overripe mush. For a brief, shining moment, they’re perfect—and then they’re gone. Maybe avocados are teaching us a life lesson in patience and timing… or maybe they’re just drama queens in fruit form.
5. First Radio Station in Grand Rapids (1924): That was 100 years ago!
On September 16th, 1924, WEBK signed on the air to becomes the first radio station in Grand Rapids, MI. The station would later change its call letters to WOOD Radio. I wonder if Andy Rent remembers what that first day was like?! (I’m kidding Andy! You are the best!)
Quote of the Day
Today’s pearl of wisdom comes from Albert Einstein:
“Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I’m not sure about the universe.”Feel free to ponder this quote the next time you see someone parallel parking across two spots, or when your printer jams for no reason whatsoever. Einstein was onto something.
Final Random Thought: Why is it that no matter how many pairs of scissors you own, when you need one, it’s never around? You could have ten pairs scattered across the house, but when it’s gift-wrapping season or you’re trying to open a stubborn bag of chips, it’s like they’ve gone into hiding. Are scissors secretly part of an underground network of runaway office supplies? Do they hang out with your lost pens and all those missing socks? We may never know.
That’s it for September 16th, folks! Whether you’re indulging in some guacamole, celebrating Mexican independence, or simply wondering why avocados can’t get their act together, make sure to enjoy the day.
If you have any comments on the above stories, please leave your remarks below…
