Taking Hay
The phrase "making hay" comes from the longer expression "making hay while the sun shines." This saying originates from the agricultural practice of haymaking, which involves cutting grass and then drying it to create hay, primarily used as animal feed. Since this process is heavily dependent on sunny weather to dry the grass effectively, farmers must take advantage of the sunny days to make their hay. Thus, the phrase metaphorically means to take advantage of favorable conditions or opportunities while they last.
This expression has been in use since at least the 16th century. One of the earliest recorded uses is in John Heywood's collection of proverbs in 1546, indicating its long-standing usage in the English language. Over time, "making hay" has come to be commonly understood as seizing the moment or not wasting a good opportunity.
Ground Patrol
The first civilian air control tower was established at Croydon Airport in London, England, in 1920. Croydon Airport served as London's primary airport during the interwar period. The control tower was a pioneering development in air traffic control and was designed to manage the safe and orderly flow of air traffic on the ground and in the surrounding airspace. This initiative marked a significant step in the evolution of air travel, setting precedents for the control towers that are now standard at airports worldwide.
Growing Click
Neon light signs were invented by Georges Claude, a French engineer, chemist, and inventor, who first introduced them in 1910. He presented the neon lamp to the public at the Paris Motor Show in December of that year. Georges Claude was able to develop neon lighting by applying electrical discharge to sealed tubes of neon gas, resulting in a bright, glowing light that could be used in advertising and signage. His invention revolutionized outdoor advertising and led to the iconic neon signs that became synonymous with nighttime cityscapes around the world.
I Shadow
Queen Charlotte was the wife of King George III of the United Kingdom and is best known for being the queen consort from 1761 until her husband's death in 1820. Born Sophia Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz on May 19, 1744, she became queen at the age of 17 immediately following her marriage to King George III.
Charlotte and George III had 15 children, and her marriage was notably stable and happy compared to other royal unions of the time. Queen Charlotte had interests in the arts, botany, and education, which influenced British culture significantly. Kew Gardens flourished under her patronage as she helped expand and develop its exotic plant collection. She is also recognized for her support of charities and the establishment of orphanages.
Her legacy is also notable in the realm of healthcare, as The Queen Charlotte's and Chelsea Hospital, founded in 1739 in London, was named in her honor, recognizing her interest in maternity care and her patronage of the arts and education.
Historically, there has been significant interest in her ancestry, with some historians and scholars suggesting that she had African ancestry through the Portuguese royal family, which could make her the first queen of mixed heritage in British history. However, this claim remains debated among scholars.
Morning Brew
As of 2023, the top 10 most popular dog breeds in the United States, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC), are:
1. **Labrador Retriever** - Known for its friendly and outgoing nature, the Labrador Retriever has been the most popular dog breed for several years.
2. **French Bulldog** - With its distinctive bat-like ears, the French Bulldog is small but robust and has a particularly easy-going temperament.
3. **Golden Retriever** - Famous for its friendly and tolerant attitude, Golden Retrievers are reliable, friendly, trustworthy, and well-suited to families.
4. **German Shepherd** - Known for its courage and devotion, the German Shepherd is a versatile breed, excelling at most anything it's trained to do.
5. **Poodle** - Highly intelligent and energetic, Poodles are available in three sizes (standard, miniature, and toy) and excel in obedience training.
6. **Bulldog** - Known for its loose, wrinkly skin and distinctive pushed-in nose, the Bulldog is a gentle and affectionate family companion.
7. **Beagle** - Small, compact, and hardy, Beagles are active companions for kids and adults alike.
8. **Rottweiler** - As a robust working breed, Rottweilers are known for being loyal, confident guardians.
9. **Yorkshire Terrier** - These small, toy-sized terriers are known for their long, luxurious coats and confident personalities.
10. **Dachshund** - Famous for their long, low silhouette, Dachshunds are curious and lively with a keen sense of smell.
These rankings can vary from year to year based on new registrations with the AKC.
Grand prix
Princess Grace of Monaco presented the trophy to the champion of the Monaco Grand Prix in 1964. The winner that year was Graham Hill, who was a five-time winner of the event.
Jackie Stewart, another legendary Formula One driver, was presented the Monaco Grand Prix trophy by Princess Grace of Monaco in 1971.
Toxic Tulips
Tulips are the second most prevalent flower cultivated in the Netherlands, favored due to the ideal growing conditions provided by the long, cool springs and moist, well-drained soils of the region (Mordor Intel).
Each year, the tulip season kicks off with National Tulip Day in January, where Dutch growers create a temporary display of over 200,000 tulips at Dam Square in Amsterdam to celebrate the start of the season, which generally lasts until April. This event marks the beginning of a period during which the tulip fields across the country bloom in a spectacular display of color, attracting visitors from around the world (Mordor Intel) (Tulip Festival Amsterdam).
In 2023, the Keukenhof Gardens, one of the most famous tulip and flower parks in the Netherlands, was a prime location for tulip viewing. The park is known for its vast and diverse displays, and despite some variability in weather, the tulips there bloomed profusely throughout the season. The park also hosts events like the Flower Parade, adding to its attractiveness as a visitor destination during the tulip season (Tulip Festival Amsterdam) (Endless Wonder).
Moreover, the Dutch tulip industry is not just about beauty and tourism; it's also a significant economic activity. The sector has been investing in technology and infrastructure to enhance efficiency and sustainability. For instance, Royal FloraHolland, a major cooperative in the Dutch flower market, has implemented advanced logistics solutions to improve the supply chain from growers to buyers (Mordor Intel).
A Mustang is Born
Ford Motor Co. unveiled its new Mustang model at the New York World's Fair on This Day in 1964. The Mustang, championed by Ford Division general manager Lee Iacocca, had a suggested retail price of $2,368. It was a great success, selling over one million cars in its first 18 months.
Tax Weather
On July 1, 1862, President Lincoln signed the second revenue measure of the Civil War into law. This law levied internal taxes and established a permanent internal tax system. In its first year, 1863, the Office of the Commissioner of Internal Revenue collected $39.1 million.
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Beginning in the early 1870s, railroad construction in the United States increased dramatically. Prior to 1871, approximately 45,000 miles of track had been laid. Between 1871 and 1900, another 170,000 miles were added to the nation's growing railroad system. Much of the growth can be attributed to the building of the transcontinental railroads. In 1862, Congress passed the Pacific Railway Act, which authorized the construction of a transcontinental railroad. The first such railroad was completed on May 10, 1869. By 1900, four additional transcontinental railroads connected the eastern states with the Pacific Coast.
U.S. Grant
April 13 - Ely Parker becomes the first Native American appointed to a cabinet position as Commissioner of Indian Affairs.
The Citroen DS is a beautiful car regarded as a technical masterpiece, and it has won praise for its sculpted exterior. The DS's self-levelling suspension, power steering, and unique clutch and brake feel (compared to cars of the time) helped the car achieve its status as a technical wonder and a mechanic's nightmare. Italian sculptor Flaminio Bertoni styled the car's exterior, and it became an instant classic.
