Nauru's Independence Day

QUOTE OF THE DAY:
"Do not dwell on the past, do not dream of the future, concentrate the mind on the present moment." Buddha


TODAY IN HISTORY:

The Explorer 1

Scotch tape by 3m

• 1930 3M begins marketing scotch tape.
• 1958 Explorer 1: The first successful launch of an American satellite into orbit.
• 1990 The first Macdonald's in the Soviet Union opens in Moscow.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT:

Rodrigo & Gabriela

Mexican duo Rodrigo & Gabriela is not very famous in Mexico but they are outstanding. Please check this NPR report and you'll be pleased.
What do you think about legalizing pot? According to this Yahoo! article, more and more people in USA agree with the idea.
Did your parents say "Till death do us part" in church? Click here to meet the longest married couple in the USA.

A water-proof phone?

Have you ever heard about Mass Hysteria? In order to learn about it, first watch this BBC video report so you get the idea. Then, read this TIME article to find out more about the mysterious illness.
On a brighter note, though, check out this CNN interview with Jennifer Lopez talking about her new job.
Have you ever dropped your cellphone in the toilet? This REUTERS video shows a product that will keep your gadgets away from humidity.
And talking about technology, what's the future of tablets? Please be sure to watch this NHK video directly from JAPAN!

Martyr's Day (India)

QUOTE OF THE DAY:
"I am prepared to die, but there is no cause for which I am prepared to kill." Gandhi


TODAY IN HISTORY:

Mohandas Gandhi

The Beatles' last concert

• 1948 Indian pacifist and leader Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi is assassinated by a Hindu extremist.
• 1969 The Beatles' last public performance, on the roof of Apple Records, is broken up by the police.
• 1982 Richard Skrenta writes the first PC virus code, called "Elk Cloner."

FOOD FOR THOUGHT:

UPS logo

First of all, I'm sure you know how to drive. Check out this NPR report featuring a driver who has NEVER had a car accident. Clean record!
Talking about jobs, this report discusses something totally different for people in London. You'll love it if you like to dance.
Reuters also features this report about female workers, although a totally different one.
Have you heard about "Baby Einstein" videos? Click here to see what Time has to say about this very popular product.
But then again you don't have to be a genius to master spelling in English, do you? According to this ABC report, all you need is a spelling lesson.
Are you in the mood for churros? Maybe you should check this CNN discussion about Chilean churros before running to the churreria.
Finally, the BBC features a really interesting report about what is called Nortec. Click here to learn about contemporary Mexican music. Really cool.

Constitution Day (Gibraltar)

QUOTE OF THE DAY:
"A fool thinks of himself to be wise, but a wise man knows himself to be a fool." William Shakespeare


TODAY IN HISTORY:

Nelson Mandela

Walt Disney

• 1920 Walt Disney starts 1st job as an artist.
• 1959 Walt Disney's "Sleeping Beauty" released.
• 1991 Nelson Mandela and Mangosuthu Buthelezi meet after 28 years.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT:

Demian Bilchir

Everybody's talking about Facebook's Timeline, but what is it exactly? Check out this NPR report that will answer all your questions.
Talking Facebook, time and again we've said that this year's motto is "Fewer faces and more books." Thus it's only fitting that we dedicate this awesome video to Peña Nieto.
Yet if you don't like books, you should check out this cool school. Yep, neither books nor pencils are required! Sign up ASAP...
Would you like to have an airplane in your garage? Take a look at this CNN report that talks about private aviation. Exciting!
Computers are great and all, but can they replace teachers? That's exactly what Time questions on this article. Do you agree?
Now Demian Bilchir is nominated for an Academy Award this year. USA Today features an interview with Bilchir... in crisp English! Actually, Reuters also has this movie review that will help you decide wether or not you want to see "A Better Life."

Army Day (Armenia)

QUOTE OF THE DAY:
"A man should look for what is, not for what he thinks should be." Albert Einstein


TODAY IN HISTORY:

The Space Shuttle Challenger

Mexico's & Spain's Flags

• 1836 Spain recognizes independence of Mexico.
• 1935 Iceland becomes 1st country to legalize abortion.
• 1986 Space Shuttle Challenger explodes 73 seconds after lift-off.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT:

An M&M character

We have mentioned chocolate, but how about M&M's? And more importantly, what does "M&M" mean, anyway? Find the answer on this sweet link prepared by the Yahoo! crew.
Sure everybody has a sweet tooth in Mexico, but what's the relationship between Mexicans and obesity? Follow this link and be informed.
Today we are discussing two technological items. First, this report that links Google to privacy, or rather the lack of it. Second, this Time article discusses Facebook's TimeLine.
Which do you think the largest city of the world is? Mexico City? Well, click this link to find the answer.
Finally, let's talk about music. The NPR has a nice music review about the newest Latin artists right here. 
Have fun!

International Holocaust Remembrance Day

QUOTE OF THE DAY:
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." Benjamin Franklin


TODAY IN HISTORY:

Thomas A. Edison

Gate at Auschwitz

• 1886 Thomas Alva Edison patents the electric incandescent lamp.
• 1945 Russia liberates Auschwitz & Birkenau concentration camps in Poland.
• 1996 Germany celebrates its 1st Holocaust Remembrance Day.  

FOOD FOR THOUGHT:
As you've already noticed above, today is Holocaust Remembrance Day. It turns out that, according to this AP report, one of the survivors died today.
The CNN features an interview with Logan Nuñez, a 9-year-old hero. Follow this link to find out why I'm calling him a hero.
Are you an introvert or an extrovert? Time magazine discusses the topic on this article. You will also find a link to an introvert/extrovert quiz. I do recommend you take it!
Earlier this week we mentioned famous actress Demi Moore. Listen to the actual 911 call that USA Today has published recently.

A "Thelma & Louise" scene

What do you think about women and vehicles? You'll be absolutely surprised after you check out this NPR report talking about ladies and car-shopping.
Have you ever thought of sending your toys to space? Well, according to this BBC video, 2 guys managed to do just that -webcam included!
Finally, what's the dark side of cyber space? This Reuters report has answers and questions about the dangers of connectivity.
Have a relaxing weekend...

Australia Day

QUOTE OF THE DAY:
"I am a slow walker, but I never walk back." Abraham Lincoln


TODAY IN HISTORY:

The 1886 Benz Motorwagen

The Lewinsky affair

• 1862 Abraham Lincoln issues General War order # 1, calling for a Union offensive.
• 1886 Karl Benz patents 1st auto with burning motor.
• 1998 President Bill Clinton says, "I didn't have sexual relations with that woman."

FOOD FOR THOUGHT:

Demi Moore

Whatever happened to Demi Moore? Everyone's talking about the actress but you can always check out this report on HLN, which is a CNN affiliate.
And talking about addiction, Time has this report about college students playing a dangerous game. Have you seen your friends playing like this?
Let's move onto technology. First desktops, then laptops, and now netbooks. What's next? This BBC article holds the answer to your curiosity!
What is the role of Spanish Language in American politics? Find out on this NPR page.
Finally, we mentioned Steve Jobs a couple of days ago. Today, find out what Bill Gates is doing with his money on this CNN article. Compare him with Slim and you'll see the difference!

St Paul's Day

QUOTE OF THE DAY:
Perseverance is failing 19 times and succeeding the 20th. Julie Andrews


TODAY IN HISTORY:

Sharon Marie Tate

The original We Are The World

• 1915 Transcontinental telephone service inaugurated (Alexander Graham Bell in New York calls Thomas Watson in San Francisco).
• 1971 Charles Manson & 3 women followers are convicted for murdering director Roman Polanski's wife, Sharon M. Tate.
• 1985 "We are the World" is recorded.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT:
We start today with  this interesting Bill Gates interview where he mentions Steve Jobs. Yep, you read correctly, Steve Jobs.
Then we have a CNN article which tells you how to organize your life by organizing your mind. Very useful, indeed.

The wicked annoying orange

Because we are in the realm of technology and information, I'm sure you are aware of and annoyed by the Annoying Orange. USA Today has this not quite as annoying video about the man behind the talking fruit.
Moving on, we have another interview, this time with Calderon... in English. I mean, for real TIME magazine asks 10 questions to Mexico's president. Can you understand him?
And finally, which is the largest drug cartel in Mexico? Find the answer right here. You'll be totally surprised!

Unification Day (Romania)

QUOTE OF THE DAY:

"Trust should be the basis for all our moral training." Robert Baden-Powell

TODAY IN HISTORY:

Robert Baden Powell

Steve Jobs and the Macintosh

• 1908 General Robert Baden-Powell starts scouts.
• 1984 Apple Computer Inc unveils the Macintosh personal computer.
• 1989 1st reported case of AIDS transmitted by heterosexual oral sex.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT:

Stephanie Sigman "Miss Bala"

First, I'd like to share something amusing with you. Click this link to understand the connection between classical music and portable technology.

Talking about music, you should listen to First Aid Kit, a Swedish band singing in English. Follow this link for the interview.

Now on to Mexico. The BBC features this video about the Tarahumara people protesting in Mexico City. Also in Mexico, check out this CNN report about Marisol Valles Garcia, the youngest female chief cop in Mexican territory.

The story mentioned in the above report might be reflected in Mexican director Guillermo Naranjo's latest movie, "Miss Bala." Click this link for a Reuters interview with Naranjo and Diego Luna.

Bounty Day (Pitcairn Island)

QUOTE OF THE DAY:
"Whoever is happy will make others happy." Anne Frank


TODAY IN HISTORY:

Rock 'N' Roll Hall of Fame Logo

The Pentateuch

• 0638 Start of Islamic calendar.
• 1492 "Pentateuch" (Jewish holy book) 1st printed.
• 1986 1st induction of Rock 'N' Roll of fame (Chuck Berry, James Brown, Ray Charles, Domino, Everly Bros, B Holly, J L Lewis & Elvis Presley).

FOOD FOR THOUGHT:

Coffee beans

Who said kids can't escape kidnapping? Watch this Yahoo! report and meet the heroic 9-year-old girl who fought for her freedom.
How about a cup of coffee? Believe it or not, this ABC report links coffee with low risk of diabetes, so take a look if there's a history of diabetes in your family.
And if you suffer depression, you should really check this NPR  report. You will also see a script, but pay close attention...
Now talking about heroines, meet Felicity Aston through this link, the first woman to ski solo across Antarctica. And for a good laugh, you gotta watch this!

Reunion Day (Ukraine)

QUOTE OF THE DAY:
"A coward is incapable of exhibiting love; it's the prerogative of the brave." Mahatma Gandhi


TODAY IN HISTORY:

Madeleine Albright

Apollo 5

• 1939 Uranium atom 1st split, Columbia University.
• 1968 Apollo 5 launched to Moon; unmanned lunar module tests made.
• 1997 Madeleine Albright is confirmed by the US Senate as the first female Secretary of State in US history.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT:

Are you a Dragon? The Year of the Dragon has just begun! That's right, according to this CNN report, the Chinese are celebrating the beginning of a new era, the era of the Dragon.
Health is no laughing matter, but this CNN report links laughing and health; highly recommended if you feel all stressed out.
Do you remember Mitt Romney? This weekend, NPR has uploaded this audio report about the Republican candidate.
Finally, what's your opinion on Facebook? USA Today discusses online safety and freedom on this article.

National Hug Day (US)

QUOTE OF THE DAY:
"We are just enthusiastic about what we do." Steve Jobs


TODAY IN HISTORY:

The Bee Gees

Time magazine cover

• 1908 NYC regulation makes it illegal for women to smoke in public.
• 1978 Bee Gees' "Saturday Night Fever" album goes # 1 for 24 weeks.
• 1998 Pope John Paul II visits Cuba.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT:

First of all, an update on the SOPA and PIPA issue. We have an interesting article right here that follows up on the piracy issue. And we also have an interview on NPR that summarizes the topic for you. GOOD NEWS! Both SOPA and PIPA bills have been postponed according to this CNN news update. You must check it out...
Moving on to something happy, 2012 is the year of the Maya. CNN has prepared this excellent report that will make you proud of being Mexican.

Armed Forces Day (Mali)

QUOTE OF THE DAY:
"Information on the internet must be as free as in the newspapers." Omar Bongo


TODAY IN HISTORY:

USS Nautilus

Jewish youngsters

• 1939 Hitler declares to German parliament to exterminate all European Jews ("final solution").
• 1955 1st atomic submarine, USS Nautilus, launched at Grotton, Conn.
• 1986 1st federal holiday honoring Martin Luther King Jr.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT:

Today I'm glad to tell you that one of my students has asked me to post something about SOPA. First of all, I found this CNN video called "Explain SOPA to me." Then, I also found this BBC report about the owners of MegaUpload. Also, USAToday has this report that discusses the website.
And to change the topic, I'm sure you know Katy Perry. Well, I would like you to listen to what NPR has to say by clicking this link. 
Enjoy your weekend!

Edgar Allan Poe's Day

QUOTE OF THE DAY:
"Education is the key to unlock the golden door of freedom." George Washington Carver


TODAY IN HISTORY:

A German Zeppelin

Neon sign

• 1915 1st German Zeppelin attack over Great Britain - 4 die.
• 1915 Neon tube sign patented by George Claude.
• 1955 "Scrabble" debuts on world board game market.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT:

Cocoa beans

Ah, the Italians... You can either love'em or hate'em as you can clearly discover on this Yahoo! report via Reuters.
Do you like chocolate? I know you do! Next time you are in the mood for a chocolate bar, think about this CNN report that links the chocolate industry to child slavery...
What's the connection between the iPad and education? What's Apple doing about learning? Follow this link to get the answer.

Revolution Day (Tunisia)

QUOTE OF THE DAY:
"Let no man pull you low enough to hate him." Martin Luther King

1st UFO sighting on camera

TODAY IN HISTORY:

Pink Floyd The Wall

• 1644 1st UFO sighting in the USA, by perplexed pilgrims in Boston.
• 1980 Pink Floyd's album "The Wall" hit # 1.
• 1993 Martin Luther King Jr. holiday observed in all 50 states for 1st time.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT:

The Mexican hat

Everybody on the internet is talking about Calderon's anti-drug war. Today the BBC shows this report about the situation... in Temixco! Can you imagine? 
But not everything about Mexico is negative. Take for example this CNN report about the best hats in the world. What number is Mexico?
Do you enjoy traveling? How about trains? Click this link and meet Sanjam Chawla, an Indian woman who works as the tour manager for the Golden Chariot.

National Day (Minorca)

QUOTE OF THE DAY:
"Success is getting what you want. Happiness is wanting what you get." Date Carnegie


TODAY IN HISTORY:

Captain Cook

Auschwitz prisoners evacuated

• 1773 Captain James Cook becomes 1st to cross Antarctic Circle.
• 1821 Mexico permits Moses Austin and 300 US families to settle in Texas.
• 1945 Auschwitz concentration camp begins evacuation by the Nazi.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT:

Mitt Romney

Have you heard about Mitt Romney? Well, he is one of the Republican candidates to run for president later this year. It turns out that this guy has Mexican roots, according to this CNN video. So if he beats Obama, he'll be the first Hispanic US president.
How about Wikipedia? The website is going to shut down tomorrow all day. Why? Well, listen to this BBC interview in order to find out.
Talking about listening, did you know that you can hear the sounds of the sea? Seriously! Click this link and enjoy!

Flag Day (Israel)

QUOTE OF THE DAY:
"Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom." Aristotle


TODAY IN HISTORY:

John Lennon

Superman

• 1920 The 18th amendment, prohibition, goes into effect; repealed in 1933.
• 1939 Comic strip "Superman" debuts.
• 1981 John Lennon releases "Woman" in the UK 

FOOD FOR THOUGHT:

Ted Williams

If you have been following this blog, you may remember Ted Williams, the homeless man with a golden voice. It turns out that Time has this update about the lucky man.
There are two stories that refer back to last weekend. First, it was the Golden Globe awards ceremony, which you can find right here. As expected, Maryl Streep won an award for best actress, so that means you've got to see her as Margaret Thatcher in Iron Lady.
Second, there's a follow up to the Concordia cruise ship right here. The report include some graphs that help you grasp the size of the boat, and yes, the Titanic is mentioned there.