Almanac of Absurdities 12/30

On this date in 1924, in Los Angeles, Astronomer Edward Hubble for the first time, publicly details observations that prove the existence of galaxies beyond our own, and radically enlarges the human perception of the universe. California’s First Freeway, the Arroyo Seco Parkway opens this date in 1940. The first NTSC Color TV, an RCA, goes on sale this date in 1954 at about $1175.00 each, just in time for the Rose Parade.

Almanac of Absurdities 12/29

1170 AD, Following possibly misunderstood orders from Henry II, armed men attack and assassinate Archbishop of Canterbury Thomas Becket. In 1966, at Abbey Road Studios in London, The Beatles begin the session that will yield “Penny Lane.” In 2003, Marja Sergina, an elderly resident of the Russian Kola Peninsula dies, and with her, dies the Akkala Sami language of the region, as she was its last speaker.

Almanac of Absurdities 12/28

Lots of beginnings today: Westminster Abbey consecrated on this day, 1065 AD. On this date in 1895, the Lumiere Brothers perform Boulevard Des Capucines in Paris, marking the first projection of moving pictures for a paying audience, and thus the birth of the Cinema. also the state of Iowa’s birthday, and the first day for San Francisco Streetcars in 1912. It’s Stan Lee’s Birthday.

Almanac of Absurdities 12/27

The odd-sounding “Flushing Remonstrance” is delivered to Colony Leader Peter Stuyvesant on this date in 1657, asking for exemptions to a general ban on pursuit of the Quaker faith in the colony of New Netherland. This becomes a precedent for the Separation of Church and State in the US Constitution. Birthdays: Louis Pasteur and Elvis’s guitarist Scotty Moore.

Almanac of Absurdities 12/26

On this day in 1982, Time Magazine makes “The Personal Computer” its first Non Human Man of the Year. No mention of this is made on Facebook or Twitter, as neither, yet, exist. Birthdays: Carol Spinney who has, for years, played “Big Bird” on Sesame Street, Convicted Producer Phil Spector and Lars Ulrich of Metallica.

Almanac of Absurdities 12/24

On this date in 1826, the so-called “Eggnog Riots” take place at West Point, after cadets smuggle whiskey into the academy. The all- night drunken disturbance eventually involves a third of the academy cadets resulting in 70 criminal implications and 19 Courtmartials. Cadet Jefferson Davis is named as “involved.” They must have smuggled in a lot. Christmas Eve, of course.

Almanac of Absurdities 12/23

On this date in 1968, 82 Sailors from the USS Pueblo are released from imprisonment in North Korea. In 1986, Dick Rutan and Jeana Yaeger land the “Voyager” at Edwards AFB, the first aircraft to fly around the world without aerial or ground refueling. Birthdays include Ron Bushy, drummer for Iron Butterfly, and former Playboy Model Holly Madison.

Almanac of Absurdities 12/22

Lots of battles on this date: 1790, Battle of Izmail, Russian Army takes Turkish Fortress; 1864, General Sherman takes Savannah Ga, and finishes “March to the Sea.” 1944, General McAuliffe replies “Nuts” to invitations to surrender to the Nazis and thus begins Battle of the Bulge in and around Bastogne, Belgium. Birthdays include Barbara Billingsley and the SR-71 Blackbird.

Almanac of Absurdities 12/21

On this date in 1620, the Mayflower Lands somewhere near Plymouth Massachusetts. The whole “Plymouth Rock” thing came up for the first time 121 years later. On this day in 1970, Elvis Presley manages to talk his way into the Oval Office for a chat with President Richard Nixon, in which he is deputized in the “War on Drugs.” Birthdays: Thomas Becket, Disney’s Snow White, and gone, but never forgotten, Frank Zappa.

Almanac of Absurdities 12/20

On this date in 1192 AD, Richard the Lionheart is captured and imprisoned by Leopold V of Austria, while on his way home from the 3rd Crusade, thus making all those Robin Hood Adventures possible in his absence. It's International Human Solidarity Day, so stay solid.

Almanac of Absurdities 12/19

On this date in 1154 ad, Henry II Plantagenent, the Great Grandson of William the Conqueror is crowned King of England in Westminster Abbey. It's not noted if his good friend (and future adversary) Thomas Becket attends. On this date in 1915, the birth of iconic French Singer Edith Piaf. Today is listed as the “Day of South-South Cooperation,” so hopefully they'll get their shit together down there.

Almanac of Absurdities 12/17

On this day in 1903, several frustrating days turn to triumph for Orville and Wilbur Wright, as their experimental flyer makes a sustained powered flight at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. Today in 1989, the first episode of “The Simpsons” is aired on fledgling Fox TV. Birthdays: Bernard Hill and Ernie Hudson.

Almanac of Absurdities 12/16

On this date in 1653, Oliver Cromwell is proclaimed Lord Protector of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland and Ireland, and thus begins the Interregnum. 1773, The Boston Tea Party, an event whose name has been degraded in recent years. 1985, Under orders attributed to John Gotti, Mobsters Paul Castellano and Thomas Bilotti are murdered. Gotti assumes leadership of the Gambino Family.

Almanac of Absurdities 12/15

On this date in 533AD, Byzantine General Belasarius beats the Vandals at the Battle of Tricameron. Don't you love it when a plan comes together? Hot Ticket: Premiere of “Gone With The Wind” at the Loew's Grand in Atlanta on this date in 1939. Birthdays: Emperor Nero, architect and famed tower creator Gustave Eiffel, and Woodstock Farm Owner Max Yasgur. Careful of the Brown Acid.

Almanac of Absurdities 12/14

On this date in 1903 at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, Orville and Wilbur Wright attempt, without success, to get their experimental flying machine to work. Don't worry, they'll be there a few days. On this day in 1911, Roald Amundson and four others are the first to reach the South Pole. Birthdays: Nostradamus born this day in 1503. Also Morey Amsterdam and Ted Raimi who played Joxer on Xena Warrior Princess.

Almanac of Absurdities 12/13

On this date in 1577, Sir Francis Drake left Plymouth England with a group of several ships carrying letters of marque signed by Elizabeth I allowing him to attack Spanish Shipping off the pacific coast of the Americas. Astronauts Eugene Cernan and Harrison Schmidt leave the last human footprints on the moon so far on this date in 1972. Birthdays: Dick Van Dyke, Jeff “Skunk” Baxter.

Almanac of Absurdities 12/12

Guglielmo Marconi receives…maybe…the first transatlantic radio signal on this date in 1901 at Signal Hill, St. John’s, Newfoundland. When told, Nicola Tesla sniffs that Marconi was using seventeen of Tesla’s Patents to do so. 1939, Battle of Tolvajärvi. Finns ice Soviets in the first major victory of the Winter War. Birthdays: Henry Wells of Wells Fargo, Frank Sinatra.

Almanac of Absurdities 12/11

Heavy Royal Events Day: 1282, Death of “Llywelyn The Last”, the last Native Prince of Wales. 1792, King Louis XVI is tried for Treason. He goes to the Guillotine on January 21. 1936, King Edward VIII abdicates after 325 days on the throne in order to marry American Divorcee Wallis Simpson. He ended up being Governor of the Bahamas, with the woman he loved. Works for me.

Almanac of Absurdities 12/10

On this day in 1684, Isaac Newton’s paper, “On the Motion of Bodies in an Orbit,” is presented to the Royal Society by fellow astronomer Edmund Halley. Yes, he was the Halley in Halley’s Comet. In 1868, the first gas-lamp traffic lights are installed near the Palace of Westminster in London. Birthdays: Grand Ol’ Opry, Mighty Mouse, Emily Dickinson, and Kyu Sakamoto, singer of the 1963 hit “Sukyaki.”

Almanac of Absurdities 12/9

In 1531, Peasant Juan Diego has a vision of the Virgin Mary near Mexico City. The spot becomes the most visited Catholic Pilgrimage Destination in the world. In 1965, the Kecksburg UFO incident: An unexplained fireball seen from Michigan to Pennsylvania. NASA subsequently admits that it did examine “An Object.” Birthdays: YMCA, John Birch Society, John Malkovich.

Almanac of Absurdities 12/8

On this date in 1660, Margaret Hughes appears on an English Public Stage, the first actRESS ever to do so, in a production of Othello. Of course, she plays Desdemona.
In 1980, Musician and Peace Activist John Lennon is Assassinated outside his home in New York City. A Dreamer; But not the only one.

Almanac of Absurdities 12/7

1941, Imperial Japanese Navy executes surprise attack on the Pacific Fleet, anchored at Pearl Harbor Hawaii. Simultaneously a brilliant tactical move by the Japanese but a fatal strategic one, as the enraged US Public is instantaneously united against the Axis. Nuclear Ass Kicking to follow. 1999, The RIAA sues Napster. Birthdays: Department Store Founder Richard Sears, Tom Waits, Rube Goldberg.

Almanac of Absurdities 12/6

On this date in 1240, A Mongol Horde under the command of Batu Khan invades the Russias. This day in 1969, Hell’s Angels Members, hired as security guards at a Rolling Stones’ concert in Altamont California, kill 18 year old Merideth Hunter near the stage. Hunter had allegedly drawn a gun after an altercation with the Angels in the early part of the concert. Dave Brubeck’s Birthday. The Master is 90, and still plays.

Almanac of Absudities 12/5

On this date in 1933, Utah, of all states, ratifies the 21st Amendment to the US Constitution and effectively ends Prohibition. Utah. Seriously. In 1941, General Georgy Zhukov launches a massive counter attack against the Nazis in the Battle of Moscow. Many historians say this is the day Hitler lost the war. Birthdays: Walt Disney, Little Richard.

Almanac of Absurdities 12/4

On this date in 1875, Former New York Politician “Boss” Tweed escapes prison and flees to Cuba, then Spain. In 1971, Someone attending a Frank Zappa concert in Montreaux Switzerland fires a flare gun and sets fire to the Casino, which burns down, (inspiring “Smoke on the Water,” but you knew that.) Wink Martindale’s birthday.

Almanac of Absurdities 12/3

On this date in 1976, Bob Marley survives an Assassination Attempt, but plays with the Wailers two days later. 1979, Eleven concert goers are killed in a rush for seats at a concert by The Who in Cincinnati. Birthdays: General George McClellan, Kim Dae Jung, and Ozzy Osbourne.

Almanac of Absurdities 12/2

On this date in 1804, Napoleon Bonaparte crowns himself the Emperor of France, even though Pope Pius VII came all the way from Rome to do it for him. Oddly Enough, on this day in 1908, Emperor Pu Yi ascends the throne of China. He’s shorter than Napoleon, but then He’s only two years old. Birthdays: Circus Owner Charles Ringling, and Britney Spears.

Almanac of Absurdities for 12/1

On this day in 1955, Rosa Parks refuses to give up her seat to a white man while riding on a Mobile Alabama City Bus. She’s arrested, but that’s not the end. In 1960, musicians Pete Best and Paul McCartney are deported from Hamburg Germany after setting fire to a condom in the ladies room of a Reeperbahn theatre. Birthdays: Richard Pryor, Bette Midler, and Billy Paul who did “Me and Mrs. Jones”

Almanac of Absurdities 11/30

On this date in 1957, a Meteorite crashes through the roof of a house in Sylacauga Alabama, and strikes Ann Elizabeth Hodges on the side while she snoozes on the couch. She is bruised by the impact, and is the only person on record to have been struck by an object from space. Wedding Anniversary for Lucy and Desi. Birthday for the actress who played “Apollonia” in the Godfather, Simonetta Stefanelli. She’s 56 today.

Almanac of Absurdities for 11/29

On this day in 1877, Thomas Edison demonstrates his Phonograph for the first time, and starts the record business, yet another of Edison’s crimes. 1890, first Army-Navy Football Game. Navy creams Army 24-zip. Birthdays: Christian Doppler of the Doppler Effect, Peter Bergman of the Firesign Theatre, and Denny Doherty of the Mamas and the Papas.

Almanac of Absurdities for 11/28

Big Steam day: On this date in 1814, The Times of London is printed for the first time on Steam Powered automatic presses, making newspapers available to a mass audience, and changing society as a result. 1843, the UK and France (briefly) recognize Hawaii as an independent kingdom. The US does not. Lots of birthdays: Randy Newman, Jon Stewart, Alfonso Cuaron, Paul Shaffer.

Almanac of Absurdities 11/27

On this date in 1895, Alfred Nobel, Inventor of Dynamite, signs his last will and testament, which gives his vast estate to the establishment of prizes for noble endeavors.
In 1924, the first Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade in Manhattan. 1934, the Feds finally kill Baby-Face Nelson in a running gun battle car chase through Barrington Illinois. It’s Bruce Lee’s Birthday. Also Jimi Hendrix. That’s gotta mean something.

Almanac of Absurdities 11/26

On this date in 1977, the audio for Southern British Television is jammed for six minutes by a voice claiming to be “Vrillon”, representative of the Ashtar Galactic Command, orders the human race to “destroy all weapons of evil,” and warning us we have little time to learn to live in peace. Some argue it might not have actually been a hoax, but are shouted down. Birthdays: Bat Masterson, Tina Turner.

Almanac of Absurdities 11/24

Charles Darwin publishes “On the Origin of the Species” on this date in 1859. In 1963 Dazed and Grieving Americans watch Jack Ruby shoot Lee Harvey Oswald to death live on TV. In 1971, a man calling himself D. B. Cooper parachutes out of a Northwest Orient Airliner with $200K in ransom money. Some of the money was found in the woods, but he never was. Forry Ackerman’s Birthday, if you’re hip to that.

Almanac of Absurdities 11/23

On this day in 534 BC, Thespis of Icaria becomes the first actor to portray a character onstage. How they got this exact date, I have no idea, were there stone ticket stubs or what? In 1910, Johan Ander is the last person to be executed in Sweden. Guillotine. Birthdays: Holy Roman Emperor Otto I, The Great, Mughal Emperor Akbar the Great, and Dr. Who, first broadcast on the BBC on this day in 1963.

Almanac of Absurdities for 11/22

47 years ago, John F. Kennedy was shot while riding in a motorcade in Dallas Texas, and his injuries proved fatal shortly thereafter. I was waiting to get into the cafeteria at Blanche Reynolds Elementary School in Ventura when I heard, how about you? In 1975, Juan Carlos is declared King of Spain following the death of Generalissimo Francisco Franco who remains dead to this day. If you don’t get it you’re too young.

Almanac of Absurdities 11/21

On this date in 1922, Rebecca Felton of Georgia was sworn in as a United States Senator. Her service ended the next day. She was the first woman Senator, The shortest-serving Senator in US history, and at nearly 88 years old, the oldest Freshman Senator ever. She is, to this date, the only woman to have served as Senator from the state of Georgia. She was a fervent white supremacist, and advocate of lynching.

Almanac of Absurdities 11/20/10, my 100th Post.

On this date in 1407, John the Fearless, Duke of Burgundy agrees to a truce with Louis, Duke of Orleans. John, Duke of Barry, mediates. Three days later, Burgundy sends fifteen big guys in masks to kill Orleans. Nice. Wedding Anniversary for Elizabeth Windsor and Phillip Mountbatten, well-off, elderly couple with troublesome children. Birthdays: Joe Biden, Joe Walsh, and Microsoft Windows.

Almanac of Absurdities 11/19

In 1863, A cold day at the Graveyard in Gettysburg Pennsylvania, as dignitaries commemorate its opening. Abraham Lincoln gives a short speech which is remembered ever after for its eloquence and deep reverence for The United States of America. In 1930, Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow rob their very first bank. Birthdays: Ted Turner, Allison Janney.

Almanac of Absurdities 11/18

On this date in 1307, Legend has it that Swiss Patriot William Tell shot an apple off his son’s head. The music that goes with that wasn’t composed for another 522 years. In 1928, the first sound-and-picture synchronized cartoon “Steamboat Willie” is released from the studios of Walt Disney and Ub Iwerks, making this Mickey Mouse’s Birthday.

Almanac of Absurdities 11/17

"It is the Lord's doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes." On this date in 1558, Mary I of England dies, allowing her 25-Year-Old half sister, Elizabeth Tudor to ascend the throne, beginning the justly-fabled Elizabethan Era. Oddly enough, on this same date in 1950, 15 year old Tenzin Gyatso is enthroned as the Dalai Lama of Tibet, a position he still holds in exile. Peter Cook’s Birthday.

Almanac of Absurdities 11/16

On this date in 1532, the army of Spanish Conquistador Francisco Pizarro captures Inca Emperor Atahualpa. They use him as a puppet to aid their looting of the culture, and eventually garrote him, essentially bringing the great Incan Empire to an end. Oddly enough this is World Kindness Week. Birthdays: Voice Actor Daws Butler, Burgess Merideth and LSD.

Almanac of Absurdities 11/15

On this date in 1864, Union General William Sherman burns Atlanta and begins the notorious “March to the Sea.” In 1959, four members of the “Clutter” family are murdered in their home in Holcomb Kansas, the subject of Truman Capote’s “In Cold Blood” Birthdays: Georgia O’Keefe, Petula Clark, and the National Broadcasting Company, NBC.

Almanac of Absurdities 11/14

On this date in 1957, authorities raid the Apalachin Meeting of over 100 top Mafiosi from the US, Canada and Italy. 60 are arrested, many escape through the woods wearing very expensive Italian shoes. In 1991, a disgruntled ex-Postal Employee in Royal Oak Michigan kills four and wounds several others before committing suicide, and giving the English Language the phrase “Going Postal”. Happy Birthday to the BBC

Almanac of Absurdities 11/13/10

On this date in 1002 AD, the St. Brice’s Day Massacre: King Aethelred II orders the execution of all Danes in England. 1942, Battle of Guadalcanal, a naval battle that effectively ended Japanese advancement in the war, described by President Roosevelt as the “turning point” of WWII in the Pacific Theatre. Birthdays: Robert Lewis Stevenson, Whoopi Goldberg and the AK-47 assault rifle.

Almanac of Absurdities 11/12

On this date in 1933, at Loch Ness in Scotland, Hugh Gray takes a photo of what he believes is some kind of sea monster. In 1941, German Troops outside Moscow shiver in 14 degree temperatures, as Soviet Defenders attack them on Skis. Maybe this invasion wasn’t such a good idea after all. Birthdays: Charlie Manson, Booker T (of the MG’s) and Neil Young.

Almanac of Absurdities for 11/11/10

Today is Armistice Day, marking the end of WWI on this day in 1918. Veterans Day. On this day in 1930, a patent was issued for a highly efficient refrigeration system with no moving parts that can be operated with any heat source. The patent was issued to Leo Szilard and his partner, Albert Einstein. The patent for the “Einstein Refrigerator” is apparently owned by Electrolux of Sweden, but only a few prototypes were ever made.

Almanac of Absurdities 11/10/10

On this date in 1898, the only recorded example of a violent municipal overthrow in US History occurs in Wilmington North Carolina. Heavily Armed White Supremacists with a wagon-mounted Gatling Gun took over the community by force and instituted its own chosen city government, at the cost of anywhere from 6 to 100 lives…all black. The Governor, and President William McKinley were well aware, but did nothing.

Almanac of Absurdities for 11/9

On this date in 1888, Mary Kelly’s body was found in Whitechapel, the final victim of the killer who came to be known as Jack The Ripper. No more is heard from him. On this date in 1967, the first issue of Rolling Stone Magazine is published, with John Lennon on the cover, dressed as Gripweed from “How I Won the War.” It’s Young Readers’ Day.

Alamanc of Absurdities for 11/8/10

On this date in 1942, the environment of “Casablanca” came to an end with Operation Torch. 400 French Patriots fighting their own countrymen, the Vichy controlled XIX Army Corps, take Algiers after a 15 hour battle, beginning the recapture of French North Africa from the Nazis. M. Ferrari no doubt raises the price of Cognac and Absinthe at the Blue Parrot. It’s Bonnie Raitt’s Birthday

Almanac of Absurdities for 11/7

On this date in 1907, 24 year old Jesus Garcia Corona drove a burning locomotive pulling a trainload of dynamite at top speed and managed to get the train six kilometers from the mining town Nacozari in Mexico, before it exploded. Jesus kicked out the fireman, who lived, but stayed aboard and was killed. We should all take a moment to be thankful for Brave Sons of Bitches when they unexpectedly appear.

Almanac of Absurditied 11/6

On this date in 1935, Edwin Armstrong presented a paper to the Institute of Radio Engineers outlining a broadcast scheme that would eliminate disturbances in signal by using Frequency Modulation. FM. In other words…No Static At All, cue Steely Dan. Birthday of Suleiman the Magnificent, John Philip Sousa, Glenn Frey of the Eagles and of Plutonium, first synthesized at Hanford on this date in 1944.

Almanac of Absurdities 11/5/10

It's Guy Fawkes Day, memorializing the failure of “The Gunpowder Plot” in 1605. Remember? Fifth of November? On this day in 1862, Abraham Lincoln removes General George McClellan as commander of the Union Army for the second time...and this time he sticks with it. Birthdays: Actress Natalie Shaefer, Roy Rogers & Art Garfunkel, and it's Sadie Hawkins Day.

Almanac of Absurdities for 11/4

On this day in 1922, British Egyptologist Howard Carter found the long-lost entrance to the tomb of Pharaoh Tutankhamen, a minor Pharaoh. Carter waited nearly a month for his sponsor, Lord Carnarvon, to arrive from England before opening it on the 26th, and finding a historic horde, and some say, triggering an ancient curse. It's Walter Cronkite's Birthday as well as that of Delbert McClinton who taught John Lennon how to play the harmonica.

Almanac of Absurdities for November 3

November 3 is the birthday of Scottish Chemist Daniel Rutherford, who, in 1772, isolated nitrogen out of the atmosphere, although he initially referred to the substance as “Phlogisticated Air.” Also the birthdays for Voice actor Jim Cummings, Lulu, and former-Comedian turned Right-Wing-Talking-Head Dennis Miller. It's World Communications Week.

Almanac of Absurdities 11/2/10

The Great Oulu Fire took place on this date in 1882 in Oulu, Finland. Started in the basement at the corner of Kirkkokatu and Pakkahuoneenkatu under a Pharmacy, where naturally, they stored Gasoline. I can only guess that the fire department was blocked by gigantic street signs, but the whole town went up in flames. It’s ELECTION DAY, GO VOTE. OTHERWISE CRAZY PEOPLE RUN THINGS.

Almanac of Absurdities 11/1

Opening Day! This day in 1604 marked the very first performance of William Shakespeare's Othello before an audience...and the same day in 1611 saw the first public showing of “The Tempest.” Dia De Los Muertos, Lyle Lovett's Birthday, and it's the first day of International Drum Month.

Almanac of Absurdities for 10/31

Harry Houdini (Born Erich Weiss) died on this day in 1926 of Gangrene and Peritonitis resulting from a burst appendix. He had been the worlds greatest escape artist, a magician, early filmmaker and a daring pioneer aviator. He was 52. Birthdays for Dale Evans, David Ogden Stiers, Jane Pauley and Kinky Friedman. And, needless to say, it's Halloween.

Almanac of Absurdities 10/30

H.G. Wells' “War of the Worlds” broadcast took place on this date in the year 1938. General panic is alleged, but historians differ on how many people really fell for it. On this date in 1945, Branch Rickey and Happy Chandler spring their conspiracy and announce the signing of Jackie Robinson, the first african-american professional major league baseball player, to the Brooklyn Dodgers. Birthdays: Grace Slick of the Jefferson Airplane, Cash Cab's Ben Bailey.

Almanac of Absurdities for 10/29/10

On this date in 1618, Writer, Adventurer, Explorer and Courtier Sir Walter Ralegh (yes, I spelled it right) gets “Alleged Conspirator” and “Corpse” added to his list of accomplishments when he is beheaded on accusations that he plotted against James I. Black Tuesday Stock Market Crash on this day in 1929. Animator Ralph Bakshi's Birthday.

Almanac of Absurdities 10/28

On this date in 1628, the Seige of La Rochelle ends with the surrender of the Hugenots. In 1919, the US Congress passes the Volsted Act, beginning Prohibition a few weeks later. Didn't turn out to be a very good idea, but many people seemed to have missed that lesson. Birthdays include Jonas Salk, Bill Gates and Wayne Fontana of the Mindbenders. National Chocolates Day.

Almanac of Absurdities for 10/27

October 27 is Navy Day, and it falls in the middle of International Magic Week, and National Massage Therapy Week. Big day for starting cities: Amsterdam was founded on this day in 1275 and Philadelphia on this day in 1682. The New York Subway opened on this day in 1904. Theodore Roosevelt's Birthday, as well as that of John Cleese.

Almanac of Absurdities 10/26/10

Today in 1881, Wyatt, Morgan and Virgil Earp, joined by Cardsharp, Gunslinger and sometime Dentist John Henry “Doc” Holliday Faced off with Ike Clanton and “The Cowboys” at the OK Corral in Tombstone Arizona, part of what came to be known as the Cochise County War. Birthdays: C.W. “Charlie” Post, of the Post Cereal Empire, Pat Sajak, Bootsy Collins, Cary Elwes.

Almanac of Absurdities 10/25

On this date in 1415, The Battle of Agincourt....Henry V's vastly outnumbered army defeats France: “Gentlemen in England now a-bed; Shall think themselves accursed they were not here; And hold their manhoods cheap whiles any speaks; That fought with us upon Saint Crispin's day." Birthdays: Billy Barty, Jon Anderson of “Yes.”

Almanac of Absurdities for 10/24

On this day in 1926, J. Gordon Whitehead asked Harry Houdini if it were true that he could take any blow to the upper body without injury. The magician, who was already suffering from Appendicitis and fever, absently answered yes, at which time Whitehead struck him several times in the abdomen. Despite the injury, Houdini finished his performance at the Garrick Theatre in Detroit Michigan that day. He died on October 31st of Peritonitis due to ruptured appendix.

Almanac of Absurdities for Oct 23

On this date in 1911, in the Turco-Italian war, a clever Italian aviator hopped in his plane and flew over to the enemy lines just to see what the Turks might be doing. It was the first use of a fixed-wing aircraft in warfare. Within a couple of weeks, they thought up aerial bombing, and tried that. It's Weird Al Yankovic's Birthday, and National Mother-In-Law Day.

Almanac of Absurdities for 10/22/10

Thanks to calculations and hints from the book of Daniel, The Millerite Sect decided that this day...in 1844...was to have been the date of the Second Coming of Christ. The Millerite Sect called the day "The Great Anticipation" as they gave away all their possessions and prepared for the rapture. The Millerites called the 23rd "The Great Disappointment" for obvious reasons. Curly Howard's Birthday.

Almanac of Absurdities 10/21/10

One of the greatest and most influential battles in world history occurred on this date in 1600. The Battle of Sekigahara ends in victory for forces led by Tokugawa Ieyasu, and the Shogunate he established continued to rule Japan until the mid-19th Century. If you read “Shogun,” this was the real Toranaga. Wedding anniversary for Juan and Evita Peron, married in 1945. Ursula Le Guin's Birthday if you're hip to that.

Almanac of Absurdities for 10/20/10

On this date in 1947, the House Un-American Activities Committee began its investigation into Commies in Hollywood, ruining countless lives and creative careers. Birthdays for Bela Lugosi, Joyce Brothers, Mickey Mantle and Iain McMillan who took the picture that became the cover of “Abbey Road.” National Freedom of Speech week too.

Almanac of Absurdities for Oct 19, 2010

On this day in 202 BC, the battle re-enacted in “Gladiator” actually took place-The battle of Zama, in which Roman Legions under the leadership of Scipio Africanus defeated the invading armies of Hannibal. No one there looks like Russel Crowe. King John of England dies on this day in 1216, succeeded by his 9-year old son Henry III. Birthdays for John Lithgow, Divine, and It's National Hagfish Day.

Almanac of Absurdities for 10/15/10

On this date in 1888, George Lusk of the Whitechapel Vigilance Committee receives a letter “From Hell” purportedly from Jack The Ripper, which closes with “Catch me if you can.” Apparently he couldn't. 1969, the anti-Vietnam War Moratorium is held with 2 million people across the country...including 17-year-old yours truly...demonstrating against the conflict. Birthdays: Friedrich Nietzsche, Tito Jackson.

Almanac of Absurdities for 10/14

A day laden with history: 1066, battle of Hastings goes in favor of the Normans, King Harold II killed, long live William the Conqueror. 1586 Mary Queen of Scots goes on trial for her life. 1867, end of the final Shogunate Government of Japan. 1947, Chuck Yaeger flies the X-1 “Glamorous Glennis” over Muroc Air Station, and breaks the sound barrier for the first time. 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis Begins. 1982, Ronald Reagan declares “War on Drugs”.

Almanac of Absurdities for 10/13

On this date in 1307, French King “Phillip the Fair” carried out the event that would make Friday the 13th infamous throughout history. Under his orders hundreds of Knights Templar were arrested and brought to torture, many confessing to heresy and unspeakable crimes. You know, like you do when you're being tortured. It was, oddly enough, Jacques DeMolay's Birthday.

Almanac of Absurdities for 10/12

It's National Free Thought day. Most people still can't afford it. On 1823, Charles MacIntosh sells his first raincoat. The HitchHiker's Guide to the Galaxy was first published on this day in 1979. Birthdays for Sam Moore of “Sam and Dave”, Aleister Crowley, and Art Clokey, creator of “Gumby.”

Almanac of Absurdities for 10/11

Theodore Roosevelt became the first American President to fly in an airplane on this date in 1910. It was a four minute flight in...or on...a Wright Brothers flyer piloted by the intrepid Arch Hoxey. Birthdays of Eleanor Roosevelt, Elmore Leonard and Darryl Hall of Hall and Oates. It's National Face Your Fears day, and perhaps not co-incidentally, it's National Coming Out Day.

Almanac of Absurdities for 10/9/10

“When I Cannot Sing My Heart, I Can Only Speak My Mind.” On this date in 1940, in the middle of an Air Raid, John Winston Lennon was born at Liverpool Maternity Hospital on Oxford Street, Liverpool, to Julia and Alfred Lennon. He was named for his Paternal Grandfather John “Jack” Lennon, and for Winston Churchill. The rest you know. Imagine.

Almanac of Absurdities for 10/8

On this day in 1806, British Military Forces lay seige to Boulogne in France for the first time using Sir William Congreve's “Rockets”. On this day in 1967 Che Guevara and his men are captured by Bolivian Army Regulars. He was executed the next day, a blow to La Revolution, but a boon to the T-Shirt Industry. Playing on the radio that day back in the US: “Daydream Believer” and “Heard It Through the Grapevine.” Frank Herbert's birthday in 1920 if you're hip to that.

Almanac of Absurdities for 10/7

On this day in 1542, Juan Rodriguqez Cabrillo, exploring the west coast of the North American Continent discovers a large coastal island that he calls “San Salvador” even though the natives who live there call it Pimu. 58 years later it'll be discovered again. Then they'll call it Santa Catalina Island. Battle of Lepanto in 1571 on this day. Birthdays for John Mellencamp and Yo-Yo Ma.

Almanac of Absurdities for October 6

It's the Earl of Southampton's Birthday, Sir Henry Wriothesly was born on this day in 1573. Oddly enough, it's also Mad Hatter day. On this day in 1889, Thomas Edison showed his first Motion Picture. Although credited with the invention of the first motion picture system, the Melies Brothers of France may well have beaten him to it. Edison's desire to claim the invention as exclusively his own led him later to hire thugs to break up motion picture productions using cameras that were not of his own manufacture. Indeed a group of New York based filmmakers finally fled the East Coast to avoid the problem...and settled out in a little California town named Hollywood.

Almanac of Absurdities 10/5/10

A lot of Debuts for English Entertainments today: On this day in 1962, the first James Bond Movie, Dr. No is released. A year later to the day, in 1963, came the release of the Beatles first single, “Love Me Do”. On this day in 1969, the first episode of Monty Python's Flying Circus is broadcast on the BBC. Birthdays for Larry Fine of the Three Stooges, Steve Miller and Clive Barker.

Alamanac of Absurdities 10/4/10

On this day in 1582, Pope Gregory XIII institutes the “Gregorian” Calendar, and in Italy, Portugal, Poland and Spain, October the 4th is followed by October 15, which cut way back on Halloween Preparations. On this day in 1957, the Russians scared the beejezus out of the US by Launching a small electronic beeping ball into orbit. Sputnik kicks off the Space Race. Birthdays for Rutherford B. Hayes and Anne Rice.

Almanac of Absurdities 10/2/10

Scots edged out the Norwegians in the Battle of Largs, 1263 AD. Peanuts comic strip debuts in 1950, first broadcast of the “Twilight Zone”in 1959. Birthdays of, Richard III, Groucho Marx, Bud Abbott Donna Karan and two celebrities best known for one-word names: Sting and Gandhi.

Almanac of Absurdities 10/1/10

On this date in 1843, the three-penny paper “News of the World” was first published in London. Due to its low price and its content, mostly news of Scandal, Vice Prosecutions, brothels, streetwalkers, and 'immoral' women.” it became the biggest selling newspaper in England. Now owned by Rupert Murdoch, it stays very close to its original ideals to this day. It's Julie Andrews Birthday.

Almanac of Absurdities for Sept. 30 2010

On this day in 1791, Mozart’s last opera “The Magic Flute” opens in Vienna. In 1888 on this day, Prostitutes Elizabeth Stride and Catherine Eddowes are found dead in London’s Whitechapel District, the work of Jack The Ripper. In 1955, 24 year old actor James Dean, driving a Porsche 550 Spyder, fatally collides with a car driven by a Cal Poly student near Paso Robles, CA.

Almanac of Absurdities for September 29, 2010

On this date in the year 1650, Henry Robinson opened his “Office of Addresses and Encounters” on Threadneedle Street in London. It is the first documented ‘dating service’ found in history. On this day in 1966, Chevrolet introduced its answer to the Ford Mustang. They almost called it the “Panther” but finally settled on “Camaro.”

Almanac of Absurdities for 9/28/10

On this date in 1066, French armies under the command of William of Normandy invade the British Isles, and the Norman Conquest begins. William becomes the first Plantagenent King. It’s the birthday of the ACTUAL Nicolas Flamel, the French Alchemist was born in 1330. Also birthdays of Confucius and Hilary Duff.

Almanac of Absurdities for 9/27/10

On this day in 1905, a Scientific Journal published a paper by one Albert Einstein, called "Does the Inertia of a Body Depend Upon Its Energy Content?" introducing the fateful equation E=MC squared. Most people still have no idea what it means, but they all agree it’s very important. We can all agree that it being Don Cornelius’ birthday is important too. Peace, Love, Soul.

Almanac of Absurdities, 9/26/10

On this day in 1580, Captain Sir Francis Drake completed his circumnavigation of the world, the first by English Ships. Jack LaLanne is 96 years old today and in better shape than me, and probably you. T.S Eliot, George Gershwin and Brian Ferry of Roxy Music all have birthdays today as well.

Almanac of Absurdities for September 25th 2010

On this day in 1789 the US Congress ratified the first amendments to the US Constitution-The Bill Of Rights. An important day. Also on this day in 1513, Spanish Explorer Vasco Nunez de Balboa “Discovered” the Pacific Ocean, a place where already, millions of people were living-up till then-free of European Colonial Influence. Mark Hamill’s & Shel Silverstein’s Birthday.

Almanac of Absurdities for 9/24/10

On this day in 1957, President Dwight D. Eisenhower sent the 101st Airborne into Little Rock Arkansas to enforce his order to desegregate the schools, an act of moral courage and strength for which he is too rarely credited. Birthdays for Sir Arthur Guinness...yes THAT Guinness...F. Scott Fitzgerald, Jim Henson, Kevin Sorbo and the Honda Motor Company. And apparently it's National Punctuation Day.

Almanac of Absurdities September 23, 2010

On this date in 1889, the Nintendo Koppai company was founded in japan by Fusajiro Yamauchi to market the card game Hanafuda. The name was later shortened to simply Nintendo. On this date in 1952, Richard Nixon gave the iconic “Checker's Speech”, which was delivered from the stage of the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood. (I didn't know that either) Birthdays for Augustus Caesar, Kublai Khan and Julio Iglesias.

Almanac of Absurdities for 9/22/10

Autumnal Equinox. Also American Business Women's Day. Birthdays for Des Moines Iowa, The National Geographic Magazine, and Nigerian Afropop Star King Sunny Ade. And in 1896, on this date, Queen Victoria passed her grandfather to become the Longest Reigning British Monarch.

Almanac of Absurdities for 9/21/10

On this day in 1780, Benedict Arnold gave the British the plans to West Point in an act of treason that makes his name synonymous with betrayal. On this date in 1792, France became a Republic, “The Hobbit” was published on this day in 1937, and on this day in 1942, the B-29 Superfortress made its maiden flight. Animation Giant Chuck Jones' Birthday, as well as Bill Murray.

Almanac of Absurdities 9/20/10

Astronomer Galileo Galilei is tried before the Catholic Congregation of the Doctrine of the Faith (AKA The Inquisition) for the crime of suggesting the Earth rotates around the Sun on this day in 1633. NZ Actor Michael Hurst’s birthday if you’re hip to that. It’s Pollution Prevention Week.

Almanac of Absurdities for 9/18/10

On this day in 1932, actress Millicent “Peg” Entwhistle ensured her status of Hollywood Legend forever by leaping to her death from the “H” on the Hollywood Sign. She’d just learned that her RKO Film “Thirteen Women” had been savaged by the critics and that her part was to be heavily edited out of the film. Birthdays for Greta Garbo and June Foray, voice of Rocky the Flying Squirrel.

Almanac of Absurdities for 9/17/2010

On this day in 1862, the bloodiest battle of the Civil War, as General George McClellan stops General Robert E. Lee’s northward advance in the battle of Antietam. Manfred Van Richtofen shoots down his first enemy plane near France in 1916…later they’ll call him the Red Baron. Birthdays for Fee Waybill of “The Tubes” and Cassandra Peterson…Elvira to you.

Almanac of Absurdities for September 16, 2010

“Operation Countenence” came to its conclusion on this day in 1941. Soviet and British Forces, working together, quietly overthrow the government of Persia in order to keep its vast oil reserves from falling into the hands of the Nazis. In the process, they tossed out the Monarch and replace him with his pliable 22-year-old son…later known as the Shah of Iran. Birthdays for Henry V of England and Allan Funt.

Almanac of Absurdities for 9/15/10

St. Ludmila of Bohemia was murdered at the order of her Daughter-In-Law on this day in the year 921AD. She was the Grandmother of Good King Wenceslaus, for those of you who may have been confused. On this date in 1975, David Bowie’s “Fame” (with backing vocals by Dr. Winston O’Boogie) was number one on the billboard charts. National Felt Hat Day

Almanac of Absurdities for 9/14/10

On this date in 1927, famed dancer Isadora Duncan perished when her trademark long scarf got caught on the wheel of her convertible and strangled her...something that all convertible owners think about to this very day. It's Walter Koenig's Birthday: Mr. Checkov, and the sinister Mr. Bester from the PsyCorps is a remarkable 74, and Wendy Thomas was born on this date in 1961. Her father named a chain of Hamburger Stands after her...Wendy's.

Almanac of Absurdities for September 13, 2010

British troops failed to take Baltimore today in 1814. The incident inspired Francis Scott Key to write a war-celebrating poem which was later set to an old English Drinking song and became our national anthem. Great Birthdays today: William Cecil, Lord Burleigh in 1520, Milton Hershey, the Chocolate Guy, Roald Dahl, and both Zak Starkey and Stella McCartney.

Almanac of Aburdities for Sept 12

On this date in 1857, the sidewheel Steamship SS Central America went down in the Atlantic off the coast of the Carolinas with about 425 still on board, as well as a cargo of Thirty Thousand pounds of Gold from California. Thirty Nine insurance companies sued the divers who found the wreck in 1987, but salvage got to keep 92% of the profits in the end. It's Barry White's Birthday, baby, baby, oh baby...

Almanac of Absurdities Sept 11, 2010

The almanac of absurdities is not needed on September 11. You know what happened. We'll be back tomorrow.

Almanac of Absurdities for September 10, 2010

On this day in 1930, Alphonse Capone, in an act worthy of a corporate emperor, took his former rivals into his operation, creating a Vice, Alcohol and Gambling syndicate that controlled Chicago. On this day in 1977, a Tunisian immigrant convicted of murder in France became the last man to die by Guillotine. “War-What is it good for?” by Edwin Starr was the number one song on this day in 1970.

Almanac of Absurdities 9/9/10

The first computer “bug” was identified on this day in 1947, when engineers working on the Harvard University Mark II Computer discovered a dead moth in an important relay. Birthdays for Leo Tolstoy, Captain Bligh, and Jay Ward, creator of Rocky and Bullwinkle. And there's still a couple of days left to celebrate National Waffle Week.

Almanac of Absurdities for 9/8/10

On this date in 1966, Some network executives at NBC cringed at the sight of a new series making its debut on the Prime Time Schedule. Sold to them as “Wagon Train to the Stars”, the new series was called “Star Trek” and the first episode was about a shape changing salt vampire. It ran two and a half seasons, and never went away. Birthdays for Richard the Lionheart, Sid Caesar, Peter Sellars and Patsy Cline.

Almanac of Absurdities for 9/7

A day of considerable significance for those of us who do Renaissance Faires: On this day in 1533, Little Elizabeth Tudor was born to King Henry VIII and Queen Anne Boleyn. The joy of the event was somewhat muted, as the couple were hoping for a boy. Having been born on that day, Elizabeth was, astrologically speaking, born under the sign of Virgo. Yup. Keith Moon died on this day in 1978.

Almanac of Absurdities for 9/6

On this date in 1939, the Royal Air Force got into its first air battle of the Second World War. Unfortunately they had the epic battle without bothering to find any enemy aircraft and accidentally shot down two of their own. It's Labor Day, of course, Jane Curtin's Birthday, And Television Producer Quinn Martin died on this day in 1987.

Almanac of Absurdities for 9/5/10

On this day in 1661, King Louis XIV’s crooked Financial Minister Nicolas Fouquet was arrested by none other than the head of the King’s Musketeers, a fellow known as D’Artagnan. Walt Disney releases his first cartoon, “Trolley Troubles” starring Oswald The Rabbit, distributed by Universal. Later, Oswald was stolen by Universal, so Disney came up with Mickey Mouse instead.

Almanac of Absurdities for September 4, 2010

On this day in 1781, 44 Spanish Settlers marked the founding of The Village of Our Lady, the Queen of the Angels of Porziuncola, but half of them left in the 7th Inning. They later shortened the name of the village to “Los Angeles”. Appropriately enough, the Ford Motor Company introduced it’s revolutionary new Auto Line “Edsel” on this day in 1957. Robert Dudley, 1st Earl of Leicester, died on this day in 1588.

Almanac of Absurdities for 9/3/2010

On this day in 1189, Henry II’s Bloodthirsty son Richard (The Lionheart) was crowned king of England. Mostly he was famous for being gone, which caused problems at home. The Great Fire of London was ravaging the city on this day in 1666. King Charles II joined ordinary citizens on bucket brigades fighting the flames. Why aren’t there more movies about King Charles? He dressed nice, too.

Almanac of Absurdities for 9/2/10

Just letting you know that you are quietly celebrating National Piano Month as you read this, as well as coolly dismissing National Enthusiasm Week. WWII Vets will remember with a sigh of relief that this is VJ Day. It’s Victor Spinetti’s birthday, (if you know who he is, extra points) and Keanu Reeve’s birthday …whoah.

Almanac of Absurdities for 9/1/2010

Le Voyage dans la lune, (A Trip to the Moon) a 14 minute long silent film by Georges & Gaston Melies is released in Paris on this day in 1902. It is the first Science Fiction movie. French Speaking, fin de siecle protogeeks, wearing black, camp out at the box office, smoking clove cigarettes and drinking Absinthe. Actually I made that part up. Its birthdays for Edgar Rice Burroughs and Lily Tomlin.

Almanac of Absurdities 8/31/2010

Big Time Crime day: In the early morning hours of this day in 1888 Mary Ann Nichols, a 43 year old Whitechapel Prostitute, was found gruesomely murdered, the first victim of the killer who came to be called Jack the Ripper. On this date in 1948, actor Robert Mitchum was busted in a Hollywood Drug Raid. He ended up doing 60 Days for Conspiracy to Possess Marijuana. Van Morrison’s Birthday.

Almanac of Absurdities for August 30

Queen Cleopatra of Egypt commits suicide rather than come under the authority of Octavian…after her attempt to seduce him, reportedly, failed. That was 30 BC. In 1918 Vladimir Lenin was shot and wounded after a speech. On this day in 1963, the “Hot Line” was installed between the White House and the Kremlin. It’s National Holistic Pet Day, whatever that means.

Almanac of Absurdities 8/29/10

On this day in 1966, at Candlestick Park in San Francisco, the Beatles wrapped up their final tour, and performed their final formal concert. There was that stand on top of the building in 1968, but that only kind of counts. A lot of good directors were born today: Preston Sturges, Richard Attenborough, and William Friedkin, and coincidentally director Joel Schumacher was born today too. Also Michael Jackson’s birthday.

Almanac of Absurdities for 8/28

Cool Birthdays today: George Villiers, 1st Duke of Buckingham, Marvel Comics Genius Jack Kirby, Leo Tolstoy and Jack Black. Martin Luther King held his 200-thousand person Rally in Washington DC and delivered the “I Have a Dream” speech on this day in 1963, and in 1898 on this day Caleb Bradham came up with a new name for his soft drink product: “Pepsi-Cola.”

Almanac of Absurdities 8/27/10

Today appears to be National Oil & Gas Industry Appreciation Day. I'm sure each of us will mark this important observance in our hearts in our own way, I know I will. It's Paul Rubens Birthday, and if you know that he's Pee Wee Herman, SCREAM REAL LOUD. And it's Tuesday Weld's birthday...even though it appears to be a Friday in this particular case.

Almanac of Absurdities for Aug 26, 2010

In a time of employment troubles for talented people, It's worthy to note that on this day in 1498, Michelangelo got a job. He was commissioned to carve the Pieta by a wealthy French Bishop. It's Albert Sabin's Birthday. He created the oral version of Salk's Polio Vaccine, and saved a generation of baby boomers from the heartbreaking disease. It's Women's Equality day. Most men would be lucky to be equal to most women

Almanac of Absurdities for 8/25/10

It's National Kiss and Make Up day. Look, just do it. Grow up.

Almanac of Absurdities for August 24, 2010

Sleepy resort towns Pompeii and Herculaneum are abruptly buried in volcanic ash on this day in the year 79 AD when Mt. Vesuvius erupted on a nice summer day. It's Orson Scott Card's Birthday, if you're hip to that, also Rupert Grint's Birthday, (Good young actor whose name would have been changed in old Hollywood.) as well as Kenny Baker,'s birthday, he was the actor inside R2-D2. National Waffle Day too.

Almanac of Absurdities 8/23/10

The US Premiere for the Beatles Color feature “Help” was held in New York City on this date in 1965. Birthdays: Martin Sheen, Barbara Eden, Shelly Long and Keith Moon. Pitcher Vida Blue was on the cover of Time on this day in 1971...at the same time CBS was pinning ratings hopes on “The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour.” and the first One Way Street was established in london on this date in the year 1617

Almanac of Absurdities 8/22

Almanac of Absurdities 8/22/10, Reportedly Austria sent Unmanned Balloons against Venice on this day in 1849, marking the first attempted air raid. In 1902, Theodore Roosevelt became the first President to ride in an automobile on this day. Might have been a Cadillac, they'd been in business exactly one year on that day. Birthdays for Composer Claude Debussy, and Ray Bradbury. No, don't sing it.

The Almanac of Absurdities for August 21, 2010

Fats Waller recorded “Ain't Misbehavin'” on this day in 1938. On this day in 1945, Manhattan Project Scientist Harry K. Daghlian dropped a Tungsten Carbide Brick on to a sphere of Plutonium, the so-called “Demon Core” and instantly received a fatal dose of radiation, (not instantly fatal, poor man) the first known fatality due directly to a Nuclear Weapon. Birthday of the Legendary and Beloved animator Friz Freleng.

Almanac of Absurdities for August 20, 2010

A Byzantine Aristocrat and Admiral by the absolutely remarkable name of Constantine Lips died on this day in the year 917 at the Battle of Acheloos, another remarkable name. Constantine Lips was never in a history test I took in high school, I would have remembered. Bulgaria beat the Byzantines, incidentally. Li'l Stevie Wonder's Fingertips Part Two was number one on this date in 1963.

Almanac of Absurdities for August 19, 2010

It's National Medical Dosimetrist day, which I think brings a few cc's more attention to an important area. Historically a big day for Witch Trials: The famed Samlesbury Witch trial began on this date in 1612, and the Salem Witch Trial began 80 years later to the day. Coincidence? Of course it is. It's Orville Wright's Birthday and it's also Aviation Day. Coincidence? I think Not!

The Almanac of Absurdities for August 18, 2010

The 19th Amendment was ratified on this date in 1920, giving American Women Citizens the Vote. It’s composer Antonio Salieri’s birthday, not to mention Martin Mull, Roman Polanski and Robert Redford. The Sundance Kid is 73, Imagine. It’s also Bad Poetry Day, but as far as I’m concerned, every day is bad poetry day.

Almanac of Absurdities for August 17, 2010

On this date in 1579, one Duke Francois Van Anjou arrived for his ill fated visit to London in an attempt to Woo Queen Elizabeth I. There are lots of after-the-fact stories about what went wrong…I’m not sure she actually caught him wearing a dress…but one way or another, it didn’t take. Birthdays include Mae West, Davy Crockett and Robert DiNiro. It’s National Thrift Shop Day.

Almanac of Absurdities for August 16, 2010

On this date in 1962, Brian Epstein was sent to fire Pete Best, so that Ringo Starr could take over the drums on the eve of the Beatles' phenomenal success. Bela Lugosi died on this day in 1956, throwing the production of “Plan Nine from Outer Space” into even more chaos. And it's the anniversary of Elvis Presley's death in 1977. And it's Director Jim Cameron's Birthday.

The Almanac of Absurdities for August 15 2010

On this day in 1969, Richie Havens came out on a makeshift stage in front of a sea of people and kicked off Woodstock: Mud, Sex, The Jefferson Airplane and Brown Acid. Today in 1911, Proctor and Gamble introduced a product called Crisco, and all that that implies. In 1939, the premiere was held for “The Wizard of Oz”. And It’s T.E. Lawrence’s birthday. Yes, Lawrence of Arabia. Quarter moon tomorrow.

2010 Almanac of Absurdities for August 14

We’ve got lots of amazing birthday people today…David Crosby is 66, Steve Martin is 62, and James Horner, the guy who wrote that pennywhistle tune for “Titanic” that everybody got pretty tired of, and scored a vast number of other films is 54. The number one song this week in 1965 was “I Got You Babe” by Sonny and Cher. Let them say your hair’s too long. I don’t care, with you I can’t go wrong.

Almanac Entry for August 13, 2010

The Great Proletariat Revolution in China and all that entailed, began on this day in 1966, during which time in the United States, The Lovin’ Spoonful single “Summer in the City” hit number one. Backa my neck getting’ dirty and gritty! Birthdays today: Alfred Hitchcock, and Fidel Castro. And we are lucky enough that this is the Only Friday the 13th in the entire year 2010.

The Almanac of Absurdities for August 12, 2010.

Ian Fleming, creator of James Bond died of a heart atack on this day in 1964. He’d had his first about a year earlier right after he lost exclusive rights to Thunderball in a lawsuit. On this date in 1898, the Sovereign nation of Hawaii lowered its flag and accepted its fate as a territory of the United States of America. IBM's first personal computer, Model 5150 went on sale at just over 3 Thousand dollars with an 8088 chip and 64k of Ram on this date in 1981.

For August 11

The Almanac of Absurdities for August 11, 2010. This day, in the year 3114 BC was day one of the famed Aztec Calendar. The last day, apparently, is about two years off. Thelonius Monk's birthday today. Also Roy Scheider's. On this date in the year 897 history records the death of a certain Wilfred the Hairy, Count of Barcelona, gone but not quite forgotten.

The Almanac of Absurdities for August 10, 2010: This is the birthday of British Physicist Henry Cavendish, born in 1731. This early physicist, emblematic of the age of reason, discovered Hydrogen. Good thing, too, because since then we've discovered there's lots of it out there. Also the birthday of David Lee Roth, and the first day of Elvis Week. On this day in 1889 A patent was issued for the first Screw Cap.

The Almanac of Absurdities for August 9, 2010

The Almanac of Absurdities for August 9, 2010.  Today is International Day for Indigenous Peoples so stay right there for that, and we're cruising along in Psoriasis Awareness Month.  Jessie Owens became the first American in history to win four Olympic Gold Medals on this day in 1936.  And Robert Shaw, who almost killed James Bond (in From Russia With Love) and made Jaws unforgettable was born on this day in 1927. New Moon Tonight.