Wednesday 29 February 2012

March 8, 2012

Born on this date
Happy Birthday, Micky Dolenz and Linda Woodhams!

310 years ago
1702


Died on this date
William III, 51
. King of England, Scotland, and Ireland, 1689-1702 (as King of Scotland, he was known as William II). William of Orange, who ruled as joit sovereign with his wife Mary II from 1689 until her death in 1694, was a Protestant native of The Hague who invaded England in 1688 and deposed King James II, a Roman Catholic, in the "Glorious Revolution." He died of pneumonia after breaking his collarbone in a fall from his horse, and was succeeded on the throne by Queen Anne, an Anglican and the second daughter of King James II.

230 years ago
1782


Abominations
U.S. militia massacred 28 men, 29 women, and 39 children of the Lenape (Delaware) Indians at Gnadenhutten, Ohio. Two boys, one of whom had been scalped, survived to tell of the massacre.

75 years ago
1937

Died on this date
Howie Morenz, 34
. Canadian hockey player. Mr. Morenz, a native of Mitchell, Ontario, was regarded as the greatest player of his time, especially when he played centre for the Montreal Canadiens from 1923-34. A fast skater who had earned the nicknames “Clinton Comet” and “Stratford Streak” in his younger days, Mr. Morenz played for Stanley Cup championship teams with the Canadiens in 1924, 1930, and 1931. He won the Hart Trophy as the NHL’s most valuable player in 1927-28, 1930-31, and 1931-32, leading the league in scoring in the first two of those seasons. Mr. Morenz was the First All-Star Team centre in 1930-31 and 1931-32, and made the Second All-Star Team in 1932-33; he undoubtedly would have earned more all-star selections, but the NHL didn’t have official All-Star teams until 1930-31. After an injury-plagued 1933-34 season, Mr. Morenz was traded to the New York Rangers. His play declined with the Rangers, and he was traded to the Chicago Black Hawks midway through the 1935-36 season. A change in management with the Canadiens in 1936 led to the decision to reacquire Mr. Morenz in an attempt to improve the fortunes of both parties. The move worked, and Mr. Morenz scored 20 points in the first 30 games of the 1936-37 season. On January 28, 1937, he suffered a badly-broken leg early in a game at the Montreal Forum when the tip of his skate caught in the boards, and he was hit by Earl Siebert of the Black Hawks. It was expected that he would be out for the remainder of the season, and perhaps for good. In late February Mr. Morenz suffered a nervous breakdown, but appeared to be recovering when he got out of his hospital bed at 11:30 P.M. to go to the bathroom, and an embolism went to his heart and struck him down. His funeral was held three days later at the Montreal Forum; 10,000 people filled the arena, and 15,000 more stood outside. In 550 regular season NHL games, Mr. Morenz scored 273 goals, and held the career record for goals until early in his final season, when he was passed by Nels Stewart of the Montreal Maroons. The Canadiens retired Mr. Morenz’s uniform number 7, making him the first player so honoured. In 1945, Howie Morenz became a member of the first group of players to be inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame.

70 years ago
1942


On the radio
The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, starring Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce, on NBC

The title of the episode is unknown, but it was the last episode of the season, and the last broadcast for Messrs. Rathbone and Bruce on NBC. The didn't return to radio until May 7, 1943, when The New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes began running on MBS.

Born on this date
Happy Birthday, Dick Allen!


U.S. baseball player. Known as Richie Allen in his younger days, the native of Wampum, Pennsylvania was the second of three brothers who played in the major leagues, and attracted controversy wherever he played. He joined the Philadelphia Phillies in September 1963, and was the National League Rookie of the Year for 1964, batting .318 with 29 home runs and 91 runs batted in, leading the NL with 125 runs and 13 triples while playing in all 162 games at third base. Although he remained a solid hitter for the next several years—leading the NL in on-base percentage in 1966 and slugging percentage in 1967--he became unpopular with the Philadelphia fans, perhaps stemming from a pre-game fight in 1965 with veteran outfielder Frank Thomas, which resulted in Mr. Thomas being released by the team. Mr. Allen moved to first base and was traded to the St. Louis Cardinals after the 1969 season, spending just one season there and then just one season with the Los Angeles Dodgers, splitting his time among third base, first base, and left field. He joined the Chicago White Sox in 1972, where he played three seasons at first base. Mr. Allen’s first season in Chicago was the best of his career: he led the American League with 37 home runs, 113 runs batted in, 99 bases on balls, a .420 slugging percentage, and a .603 on-base percentage, and his batting percentage of .308 was second to Rod Carew’s .318. In one memorable game, Mr. Allen became the first player in several decades to hit 2 inside-the-park home runs in a single game. He was named the AL’s Most Valuable Player and The Sporting News Player of the Year for 1972. A broken leg shortened his season in 1973, but Mr. Allen signed a contract in 1974 paying him $700,000 over three years, making him the highest paid player in baseball history to that time. He was leading the AL in home runs when he told the team that he no longer felt like playing, and announced his retirement with a month remaining in the season. Despite missing that last month, Mr. Allen still led the American League with 32 home runs, and his on-base percentage of .563 topped the league as well. The White Sox traded Mr. Allen’s rights to the Atlanta Braves after that season, but he refused to play in Atlanta, and early in the season he was traded back to the Phillies, where he played first base for the next two years. Mr. Allen was dealt to the Oakland Athletics before the 1977 season, but he wore out his welcome a third of the way into the season when team owner Charlie Finley found him taking a shower during a game. Mr. Allen returned to the Athletics for spring training in 1978, but he was released after appearing in a few exhibition games, ending his career. In 15 seasons in the major leagues, Dick Allen played in 1,749 regular season games, batting .292 with 351 home runs and 1,119 runs batted in.

60 years ago
1952


Hit parade
#1 singles in the U.S.A. (Billboard): Cry--Johnnie Ray and the Four Lads (Best Seller--10th week at #1, Disc Jockey--9th week at #1, Juke Box--7th week at #1)

U.S.A. Top 10 (Cash Box)
1 Cry--Johnnie Ray and the Four Lads (6th week at #1)
2 Tell Me Why--The Four Aces
--Eddie Fisher
3 Slow Poke--Pee Wee King and his Golden West Cowboys
--Arthur Godfrey
--Helen O'Connell
4 The Little White Cloud that Cried--Johnnie Ray and the Four Lads
5 Any Time--Eddie Fisher
6 Bermuda--The Bell Sisters
7 Wheel of Fortune--Kay Starr
--Bobby Wayne
--Eddie Wilcox Orchestra with Sunny Gale
8 Tiger Rag--Les Paul and Mary Ford
9 Please, Mr. Sun--Johnnie Ray
10 Blue Tango--Leroy Anderson and his "Pops" Concert Orchestra

Singles entering the chart were You Weren't There by Nat "King" Cole (#35); Silver and Gold by Pee Wee King and his Band (#42); and You Brought Me Love by the Four Aces (#44). You Brought Me Love was the B-side (or maybe the A-side) of Perfidia, which charted at #29.

50 years ago
1962


Hit parade
#1 single in the U.K. (Record Retailer): Rock-A-Hula Baby/Can't Help Falling in Love--Elvis Presley (3rd week at #1)

On television tonight
The Untouchables, starring Robert Stack, on ABC
Tonight's episode: The Stryker Brothers

40 years ago
1972


Terrorism
No one was injured when a bomb exploded aboard a Trans World Airlines Boeing 707 jet at Las Vegas International Airport.

Baseball
The San Francisco Giants scored 5 runs in the first 2 innings and held on to defeat the Chicago Cubs 10-8 in their first spring training game of 1972, before 4,396 fans at Scottsdale Stadium in Scottsdale, Arizona, the spring training home of the Cubs. Don Carrithers started on the mound for San Francisco and allowed 1 run in 3 innings to get the win over Chicago ace Ferguson Jenkins, who pitched the first 2 innings. Carmen Fanzone of the Cubs hit the game's only home run, a solo blast in the bottom of the 8th inning.



30 years ago
1982


Hit parade
#1 single in Australia (Kent Music Report): Tainted Love--Soft Cell (3rd week at #1)

Personal
This blogger won a prize in a trivia contest on CFRN radio in Edmonton.

War
Deputy U.S. Secretary of State Walter Stoessel told the Senate Foreign Relations Committee that the U.S.S.R. had killed at least 3,000 people in Afghanistan with poison gas and other chemical weapons. Mr. Stoessel asserted that his information came from Afghan army defectors who had been trained in chemical warfare by the Soviet Union as well as refugees in Pakistan who claimed to be victims of chemical attacks. According to Mr. Stoessel, the Soviets had used irritants, incapacitants, nerve agents, photogene oxime, and perhaps mycotoxins, mustard, lewisite, and toxic smoke. Mr. Stoessel reported that approximately three million Afghans had fled their country in recent months, mainly to neighbouring Pakistan, and that thousands more were being held as political prisoners in Afghanistan. He also told of reports of torture and summary executions.

25 years ago
1987


Hit parade
#1 single in New Zealand (RIANZ): Funkytown--Pseudo Echo

#1 single in France: On se retrouvera--Francis Lalanne (2nd week at #1)

20 years ago
1992


Hit parade
#1 single in New Zealand (RIANZ): Remember the Time--Michael Jackson (2nd week at #1)

#1 single in Austria (Ö3): Justified & Ancient--The KLF (featuring Tammy Wynette) (4th week at #1)

#1 single in Switzerland: Das Boot--U 96

Politics and government
Former California Governor Jerry Brown won the Nevada caucus vote for the 1992 Democratic party nomination for President of the United States.

Thursday 23 February 2012

March 7, 2012

Born on this date
Happy Birthday, Carolyn Jagger!

70 years ago
1942


Hit parade
#1 single in the U.S.A. (Billboard): Moonlight Cocktail--Glenn Miller and his Orchestra (2nd week at #1)

60 years ago
1952


On television tonight
Tales of Tomorrow, on ABC
Tonight's episode: Bound Together, starring Dario Barrie, Nina Foch, and Russell Hardie

50 years ago
1962


At the movies
The Premature Burial, directed by Roger Corman, and starring Ray Milland, Hazel Court, Richard Ney, and Heather Angel, opened in theatres.



Space
The United States launched OSO 1, a satellite whose mission was to study ultraviolet, X-ray, and gamma radiation.

Diplomacy
U.S. President John F. Kennedy wrote Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev to suggest the two nations co-operate in the exploration of space. Mr. Khrushchev agreed to the proposal on March 21.

40 years ago
1972


Politics and government
U.S. Senator Edmund Muskie (Maine) won the New Hampshire primary for the Democratic party nomination for President of the United States, taking 46.4% of the vote. U.S. Senator George McGovern (South Dakota) finished second with 37% of the vote. In the Republican primary, President Richard Nixon obtained 68% of the vote to 20% for Rep. Paul McCloskey (California), a critic of Mr. Nixon’s Vietnam policy, and 11% for Rep. John Ashbrook (Ohio), a conservative critic of Nixon administration policy.

30 years ago
1982


Politics and government
General Angel Anibal Guevara was elected to replace General Romeo Lucas Garcia as President of Guatemala in July 1982. The election was marred by allegations of fraud.

25 years ago
1987


Hit parade
#1 single in Italy: Si può dare di più--Gianni Morandi, Enrico Ruggeri, Umberto Tozzi (4th week at #1)

#1 single in Spain (PROMUSICAE): The Final Countdown--Europe (6th week at #1)

#1 single in Flanders (Ultratop 50): Reet Petite--Jackie Wilson (4th week at #1)

#1 single in the Netherlands (De Nederlandse Top 40): I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me)--George Michael and Aretha Franklin (2nd week at #1)

#1 single in Ireland (IRMA): Stand by Me--Ben E. King (2nd week at #1)

#1 single in the U.K. (New Musical Express): Stand by Me--Ben E. King (2nd week at #1)

#1 single in the U.K. (BMRB): Stand by Me--Ben E. King (3rd week at #1)

#1 single in the U.S.A. (Billboard): Livin' on a Prayer--Bon Jovi (4th week at #1)

U.S.A. Top 10 (Cash Box)
1 Livin' on a Prayer--Bon Jovi (4th week at #1)
2 Jacob's Ladder--Huey Lewis and the News
3 Open Your Heart--Madonna
4 Will You Still Love Me?--Chicago
5 (You Gotta) Fight for Your Right (To Party!)--Beastie Boys
6 You Got it All--The Jets
7 Somewhere Out There--Linda Ronstadt and James Ingram
8 Big Time--Peter Gabriel
9 Respect Yourself--Bruce Willis
10 Mandolin Rain--Bruce Hornsby and the Range

Singles entering the chart included Sign 'o' the Times by Prince (#49); Can'tcha Say (You Still Believe in Me)/Still in Love by Boston (#68); (I Just) Died in Your Arms by Cutting Crew (#73); Looking for a New Love by Jody Watley (#76); The Right Thing by Simply Red (#85); and Meet me Half Way by Kenny Loggins (#87).

Canada’s Top 10 (RPM)
1 Touch Me (I Want Your Body)--Samantha Fox (2nd week at #1)
2 At this Moment--Billy Vera and the Beaters
3 Keep Your Hands to Yourself--Georgia Satellites
4 Livin' on a Prayer--Bon Jovi
5 Shake You Down--Gregory Abbott
6 C'est la Vie--Robbie Nevil
7 Will You Still Love Me?--Chicago
8 Respect Yourself--Bruce Willis
9 Walk Like an Egyptian--Bangles
10 Ballerina Girl--Lionel Richie

Singles entering the chart included Come Go with Me by Expose (#88); I'm an Adult Now by The Pursuit of Happiness (#93); Love and Compassion by Parachute Club (#94); and French Kissin' by Debbie Harry (#98).

20 years ago
1992


Hit parade
#1 single in Australia (ARIA): Saltwater--Julian Lennon

#1 single in Japan (Oricon Singles Chart): Kanashimi hayuki no yoni--Shogo Hamada (4th week at #1)

#1 single in Italy (FIMI): Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me--George Michael/Elton John (8th week at #1)

#1 single in Spain (PROMUSICAE): Smells Like Teen Spirit--Nirvana

#1 single in Flanders (Ultratop 50): Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me--George Michael/Elton John (6th week at #1)

#1 single in France (SNEP): Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me--George Michael/Elton John (3rd week at #1)

#1 single in the Netherlands (De Nederlandse Top 40): I Can't Dance--Genesis

#1 single in the U.K. (Chart Information Network): Stay--Shakespears Sister (3rd week at #1)

#1 single in the U.S.A. (Billboard): To Be with You--Mr. Big (2nd week at #1)

U.S.A. Top 10 (Cash Box)
1 To Be with You--Mr. Big (3rd week at #1)
2 Remember the Time--Michael Jackson
3 Missing You Now--Michael Bolton featuring Kenny G
4 Good for Me--Amy Grant
5 I Love Your Smile--Shanice
6 I'll Get By--Eddie Money
7 Vibeology--Paula Abdul
8 Until Your Love Comes Back Around--RTZ
9 I Can't Dance--Genesis
10 I'm Too Sexy--Right Said Fred

Singles entering the chart included Come as You Are by Nirvana (#81); Caribbean Blue by Enya (#85); and The Real Thing by Kenny Loggins (#91).

Canada's Top 10 (RPM)
1 To Be with You--Mr. Big
2 Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me-George Michael/Elton John
3 I Can't Dance--Genesis
4 Remember the Time--Michael Jackson
5 No Regrets--Tom Cochrane
6 Good for Me--Amy Grant
7 I'm Too Sexy--Right Said Fred
8 Tears in Heaven--Eric Clapton
9 Mysterious Ways--U2
10 Hazard--Richard Marx

Singles entering the chart included You're All that Matters to Me by Curtis Stigers (#67); Way of the World by Tina Turner (#90); All Woman by Lisa Stansfield (#91); and Don't Turn Around by Neil Diamond (#96).

March 6, 2012

100 years ago
1912


Popular culture
Oreo cookies went on sale for the first time.

50 years ago
1962


On television tonight
Alfred Hitchcock Presents, on NBC
Tonight's episode: The Big Score, starring Rafael Campos, Evans Evans, and Tom Gilleran

30 years ago
1982


Hit parade
#1 single in the U.K.: The Lion Sleeps Tonight--Tight Fit

#1 single in the U.S.A.: (Billboard): Centerfold--J. Geils Band (5th week at #1)

U.S.A. Top 10 (Cash Box)
1 Centerfold--J. Geils Band (6th week at #1)
2 Open Arms--Journey
3 Shake it Up--The Cars
4 That Girl--Stevie Wonder
5 I Can't Go for That (No Can Do)--Daryl Hall & John Oates
6 I Love Rock 'N' Roll--Joan Jett and the Blackhearts
7 Physical--Olivia Newton-John
8 Mirror, Mirror--Diana Ross
9 Sweet Dreams--Air Supply
10 We Got the Beat--Go-Go's

Singles entering the chart were Don't Talk to Strangers by Rick Springfield (#56); I've Never Been to Me by Charlene (#85); Making Love by Roberta Flack (#86); Don't You Want Me by the Human League (#87); and Shanghai Breezes by John Denver (#88).

Canada’s Top 10 (RPM)
1 Tainted Love--Soft Cell (2nd week at #1)
2 Centerfold--J. Geils Band
3 I Can't Go for That (No Can Do)--Daryl Hall & John Oates
4 Our Lips are Sealed--Go-Go's
5 Physical--Olivia Newton-John
6 Tonight I'm Yours--Rod Stewart
7 Letting Go--Straight Lines
8 Open Arms--Journey
9 Let's Get it Up--AC/DC
10 Johnny are You Queer?--Josie Cotton

Singles entering the chart were Don't You Want Me by the Human League (#41); Pac-Man Fever by Buckner & Garcia (#47); What Kind of Love is This by Streetheart (#49); and Joan of Arc by Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark (#50).

Died on this date
Ayn Rand, 77
. Russian-born U.S. philosopher. Founder of the philosophy known as objectivism, Miss Rand was known for the novels We the Living (1936), The Fountainhead (1943), and Atlas Shrugged (1957). For a good summation of objectivism, read Miss Rand's introduction to the 25th anniversary edition of The Fountainhead and the chapter near the end of the book containing Howard Roark's courtroom speech. You can skip the rest of the novel without missing much.

25 years ago
1987


Died on this date
Edward Zorinsky, 58
. U.S. politician. Mr. Zorinsky, a Democrat, was a United States Senator from Nebraska from 1977-1987.

Disasters
Two days of earthquakes striking the northeastern jungle of Ecuador concluded with the deaths of 300 people, with 4,000 missing and perhaps 20,000 left homeless.

The British ferry Herald of Free Enterprise, en route from Zeebrugge, Belgium to Dover, capsized in the English Channel. The death toll was put at 193, and about 350 were rescued.

20 years ago
1992


Environment
Canadian Fisheries Minister John Crosbie, citing dwindling stocks and potential loss of the resource, announced a five-year ban on commercial salmon fishing in Newfoundland.

Economics and finance
The United States Labor Department reported that the unemployment rate had risen to 7.3% in February, but that the nation had added 164,000 payroll jobs.

Statistics Canada reported unemployment at 10.6% in February, the highest level in seven years.

10 years ago
2002


At the movies
This blogger attended a preview screening of The Believer.

Tuesday 21 February 2012

March 5, 2012

500 years ago
1512


Born on this date
Gerardus Mercator
. Flemish cartographer. Mr. Mercator was best known for Nova et Aucta Orbis Terrae Descriptio ad Usum Navigantium Emendate Accommodata (1569), his world map based on a new projection which represented sailing courses of constant bearing (rhumb lines) as straight lines. He was also known in his own time as a manufacturer of globes and scientific instruments. Mr. Mercator died on December 2, 1594 at the age of 82.

125 years ago
1887


Born on this date
Heitor Villa-Lobos
. Brazilian composer. Perhaps the best-known of Brazilian composers, the native of Rio de Janeiro first attracted attention in North America when recordings of his works were sold at the world’s fair in New York in 1939. Mr. Villa-Lobos composed 12 symphonies, and numerous concertos and works for solo piano and guitar. Perhaps is most famous compositions were the Bachianas Brasileiras (1930-1945). Mr. Villa-Lobos died on November 17, 1959 at the age of 72.

60 years ago
1952


On television tonight
The Unexpected, hosted by Herbert Marshall, on NBC
Tonight's episode: Calculated Risk, starring Louis Jean Heydt and Rochelle Hudson

50 years ago
1962


On television tonight
Thriller, hosted by Boris Karloff, on NBC
Tonight's episode: Flowers of Evil, starring Luciana Paluzzi, Kevin Hagen, and Jack Weston



30 years ago
1982


Hit parade
Yellowknife's Top 30 (CJCD)
1 Centerfold--J. Geils Band
2 Open Arms--Journey
3 I Can't Go for That (No Can Do)--Daryl Hall and John Oates
4 Waiting on a Friend--Rolling Stones
5 Sweet Dreams--Air Supply
6 Shake it Up--The Cars
7 You Could Have Been with Me--Sheena Easton
8 Take it Easy on Me--Little River Band
9 Love is Alright Tonite--Rick Springfield
10 Abacab--Genesis
11 Spirits in the Material World--The Police
12 That Girl--Stevie Wonder
13 Turn Your Love Around--George Benson
14 Tonight I'm Yurs--Rod Stewart
15 Mirror, Mirror--Diana Ross
16 Leader of the Band--Dan Fogelberg
17 Hooked on Classics--Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
18 Make a Move on Me--Olivia Newton-John
19 I Believe--Chilliwack
20 I Love Rock 'N' Roll--Joan Jett and the Blackhearts
21 Should I Do It--Pointer Sisters
22 Cool Night--Paul Davis
23 Find Another Fool--Quarterflash
24 The Friends of Mr. Cairo--Jon and Vangelis
25 Juke Box Hero--Foreigner
26 Harden My Heart--Quarterflash
27 We Got the Beat--Go-Go's
28 Key Largo--Bertie Higgins
29 Young Turks--Rod Stewart
30 Through the Years--Kenny Rogers

At the movies
The 9-screen Principal Plaza Cineplex, the first in the city of Edmonton, opened, showing 8 movies. Montenegro was showing on two screens; the other movies were Absence of Malice; Cinderella (1950); Fame; Man of Iron; Not a Love Story: A Film About Pornography; and, for the artsy-fartsy foreign film fans, What the Butler Saw (aka What the Swedish Butler Saw, aka The Groove Room), a Swedish import advertised as "The First 3-D Sex Film." I don't know if anyone who intended to see Not a Love Story accidentally wandered into the theatre showing What the Butler Saw.

Died on this date
John Belushi, 33
. U.S. comedian and actor. Mr. Belushi was a member of the cast of television comedy program Saturday Night Live from 1975-1979. He and SNL colleague Dan Aykroyd sang as the Blues Brothers, and had several hit singles from 1978-1981, including Soul Man and Gimme Some Lovin'. His movies included Animal House (1978); 1941 (1979); The Blues Brothers (1980); and Neighbors (1981). Mr. Belushi was found dead in his room at Bungalow number 3 of the Chateau Marmont Hotel in West Hollywood, California, victim of a "speedball," an injection of cocaine and heroin. A woman from Toronto, Cathy Smith, admitted several months later that she had given Mr. Belushi the fatal injection. She was charged with first-degree murder, but the charge was plea-bargained to manslaughter, and she served 15 months in prison. Mr. Belushi was the subject of Bob Woodward's book Wired (1984). In his 1982 book More Funny People, Steve Allen had a chapter on Mr. Belushi, which makes for interesting reading, albeit unflattering to its subject.

25 years ago
1987


On television tonight
Our World, hosted by Linda Ellerbee and Ray Gandolf, on ABC
Tonight's episode: Up Against the Wall: 1961



Religion
As part of Christian Awareness Week at the University of Alberta, a debate took place between Jeff Amano of Probe Ministries and Fred Ulrich, a Buddhist priest from Edmonton, on the topic of resurrection vs. reincarnation. A large audience attended the Thursday night debate in a classroom in the V-Wing.

20 years ago
1992


Hit parade
#1 single in Ireland (IRMA): One--U2

Hockey
NHL
Toronto 5 @ Calgary 5
The Maple Leafs, trailing 5-3 in the last minute of regulation time and playing with 6 attackers, scored 2 goals to tie the game at Olympic Saddledome.

March 4, 2012

Born on this date
Happy Birthday, Olivia Mananquil!

175 years ago
1837


Politics and government
Martin Van Buren was inaugurated as the 8th President of the United States of America.

60 years ago
1952


On television tonight
Suspense, on CBS
Tonight's episode: Day of Infamy, starring Signe Hasso

40 years ago
1972


Hit parade
#1 single in the U.K.: Son of My Father--Chicory Tip (3rd week at #1)

Australia's Top 10 (Go-Set)
1 Brand New Key--Melanie (2nd week at #1)
2 Ernie (The Fastest Milkman in the West)--Benny Hill
3 Cherish--David Cassidy
4 Day by Day--Colleen Hewitt
5 American Pie, Parts I and II--Don McLean
6 The Desiderata--Les Crane
7 Ranger's Waltz--The Mom and Dads
8 Imagine--John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band
9 Captain Zero--The Mixture
10 Theme from Shaft--Isaac Hayes

There were no singles entering the chart.

#1 single in the U.S.A. (Billboard): Without You--Nilsson (3rd week at #1)

U.S. Top 10 (Cash Box)
1 Without You--Nilsson
2 Hurting Each Other--Carpenters
3 Down by the Lazy River--The Osmonds
4 The Lion Sleeps Tonight--Robert John
5 Precious and Few--Climax
6 Joy--Apollo 100
7 Everything I Own--Bread
8 Sweet Seasons--Carole King
9 Heart of Gold--Neil Young
10 Let's Stay Together--Al Green

Singles entering the chart were Rockin' Robin by Michael Jackson (#63); Tiny Dancer by Elton John (#68); Heartbroken Bopper by the Guess Who (#71); Sweet Sixteen by B.B. King (#80); If We Only Have Love by Dionne Warwicke (#84); Julianna by Five Man Electrical Band (#85); Nice to Be with You by Gallery (#86); We Got to Have Peace by Curtis Mayfield (#88); You Were Made for Me by Luther Ingram (#89); Louisiana by Mike Kennedy (#92); All His Children by Charley Pride with Henry Mancini (#95); Taxi by Harry Chapin (#97); Keep on Doin' What You're Doin' by Bobby Byrd (#99); and The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face by Robert Flack (#100). You Were Made for Me was the B-side of Missing You, which had dropped off the chart after peaking at #72 two weeks earlier.

Canada’s Top 10 (RPM)
1 Love Me, Love Me, Love--Frank Mills (2nd week at #1)
2 Hurting Each Other--Carpenters
3 Without You--Nilsson
4 Stay with Me--Faces
5 Down by the Lazy River--The Osmonds
6 Everything I Own--Bread
7 Precious and Few--Climax
8 Cotton Jenny--Anne Murray
9 Never Been to Spain--Three Dog Night
10 Day After Day--Badfinger

Singles entering the chart were Oh My Love by the Bells (#64); I Gotcha by Joe Tex (#70); Fly Away by Crowbar (#72); Mercedes Benz by Goose Creek Symphony (#75); Don't Ever Take Away My Freedom by Peter Yarrow (#87); Suavecito by Malo (#89); That's the Way I Feel About Cha by Bobby Womack (#91); A Salty Dog by Procol Harum and the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra (#94); The Day I Found Myself by the Honey Cone (#96); and Poor Folks by Joshua (#100). This version of A Salty Dog was recorded at the Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium on November 18, 1971. Procol Harum's original version had reached #44 on the U.K. pop chart in 1969. The other side of the 1972 single, Conquistador, eventually became the bigger hit.

Calgary's Top 10
1 Mozart Serenade No. 13--Manuel de Falla Orchestra, conducted by Waldo De Los Rios
2 Never Been to Spain--Three Dog Night
3 Without You--Nilsson
4 Down by the Lazy River--The Osmonds
5 Life in the Bloodstream--The Guess Who
6 One Monkey Don't Stop No Show, Part 1--The Honey Cone
7 I am a Preacher--Tony Kingston
8 My Love Sings--Joey Gregorash
9 Country Wine--Raiders
10 Mercedes Benz--Goose Creek Symphony
Pick hit of the week: Hurting Each Other--Carpenters

Boxing
Carlos Monzon (75-3-9) retained his world middleweight title with a technical knockout of Denny Moyer (82-23-4) at 1:50 of the 5th round at Palazzetto dello Sport in Rome.

30 years ago
1982


Edmonton's top 10 (CFRN)
1 Open Arms--Journey
2 I Believe--Chilliwack
3 Sweet Dreams--Air Supply
4 Should I Do It--Pointer Sisters
5 When All is Said and Done--Abba
6 You Could Have Been with Me--Sheena Easton
7 Breaking Away--Al Jarreau
8 My Guy--Sister Sledge
9 Through the Years--Kenny Rogers
10 Key Largo--Bertie Higgins

Abominations
Bertha Wilson was named to the Supreme Court of Canada. It was expected that she might bring a "liberal slant" to the court, but what she brought was a radical feminist slant. It was Bertha Wilson who ruled that people who had just arrived in the country were to be granted many of the same rights as citizens. It was Bertha Wilson who wrote the majority judgement in the court's ruling on abortion, which struck down Canada's abortion law (Alberta Report editor Ted Byfield accurately refrerred to her "so-called judgement...which reads like something you'd be handed on a street corner"). And it was Bertha Wilson who, in 1993, chaired the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples, which included heart-rending "testimony" from "victims" of the "forced" relocation of Inuit from Quebec to the Northwest Territories in the 1950s. The "victims" weren't testifying under oath to tell the truth (and they didn't tell the truth), no cross-examination was allowed, and some of the hearings were conducted in secret. Chairhag Wilson nonetheless offered her opinion on the relocation before all sides of the issue had been heard--which was typical of her.

25 years ago
1987


Hit parade
#1 single in Sweden: Caravan of Love--The Housemartins (4th week at #1)

Edmonton’s Top 19 (CHED)
1 Livin’ on a Prayer—Bon Jovi
2 Jacob’s Ladder—Huey Lewis and the News
3 Respect Yourself—Bruce Willis
4 Will You Still Love Me?—Chicago
5 C’est la Vie—Robbie Nevil
6 Keep Your Hands to Yourself—Georgia Satellites
7 You Got it All—The Jets
8 At this Moment—Billy Vera and the Beaters
9 Big Time—Peter Gabriel
10 The Final Countdown—Europe
11 Ballerina Girl—Lionel Richie
12 Brand New Lover—Dead or Alive
13 I Wanna Go Back—Eddie Money
14 Love You Down—Ready for the World
15 I’ll Be All Right Without You—Journey
16 You’re what I Look For—Glass Tiger
17 Mandolin Rain—Bruce Hornsby and the Range
18 Let’s Wait Awhile—Janet Jackson
19 Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now--Starship

Crime
Jonathan Pollard, convicted in 1986 of spying for Israel against the United States, was sentenced to life in prison, and his wife was sentenced to five years in prison as an accessory.

Religion
As part of Christian Awareness Week at the University of Alberta, speakers from Probe Ministries began three days of lectures and debates. Kerby Anderson spoke on the topic of sex ethics in a noon hour talk at SUB Theatre, and drew a large audience.

20 years ago
1992


Hit parade
#1 single in Sweden (Topplistan): You--Ten Sharp

Died on this date
Art Babbitt, 84
. U.S. animator. Mr. Babbitt, born Arthur Babitsky, worked with the Walt Disney studio in the 1930s and '40s; he developed the character Goofy, and worked on such movies as Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937) and Fantasia (1940). Mr. Babbitt joined United Productions of America (UPA) in 1951, and later joined Hanna-Barbera; he won more than 80 awards.

Allan Roth, 74. Canadian-born U.S. baseball statistician. A native of Montreal, Mr. Roth worked with the Montreal Canadiens of the National Hockey League before convincing the Brooklyn Dodgers of baseball’s National League that the use of statistics would improve the team’s performance. Mr. Roth edited the annual publication Who’s Who in Baseball for many years.

Mary Osborne, 70. U.S. musician. Miss Osborne was a jazz guitarist who played with artists such as Dizzy Gillespie, Art Tatum, Coleman Hawkins, and Thelonious Monk from the 1940s through the 1960s. She and her husband founded the Osborne Guitar Company in Bakersfield, California in 1968, and she played at jazz festivals until her death from chronic leukemia.

Hockey
NHL
Toronto 5 @ Edmonton 2

This blogger attended the game at Edmonton Coliseum. A highlight was a fight between Wendel Clark of the Maple Leafs and David Maley of the Oilers. Not only did Mr. Clark win the fight handily, but Mr. Maley suffered a knee injury.

March 3, 2012

Born on this date
Happy Birthday, Irishka!

60 years ago
1952


On television tonight
Lights Out, on NBC
Tonight's episode: Private--Keep Out, starring Melvyn Douglas

50 years ago
1962


Hit parade
#1 single in Italy: Quando, Quando, Quando--Tony Renis

#1 single in the U.K. (New Musical Express): Let's Twist Again--Chubby Checker (2nd week at #1)

#1 single in the U.K. (Record Mirror): Rock-A-Hula Baby/Can't Help Falling in Love--Elvis Presley (2nd week at #1)

#1 single in the U.S.A. (Billboard): Duke of Earl--Gene Chandler (3rd week at #1)

U.S.A. Top 10 (Cash Box)
1 Duke of Earl--Gene Chandler (5th week at #1)
2 Hey! Baby--Bruce Channel
3 The Twist--Chubby Checker
4 The Wanderer--Dion
5 Midnight in Moscow--Kenny Ball and his Jazzmen
6 Break it to Me Gently--Brenda Lee
7 Crying in the Rain--The Everly Brothers
8 Peppermint Twist - Part I--Joey Dee & the Starliters
9 Don't Break the Heart That Loves You--Connie Francis
10 Let Me In--The Sensations

Singles entering the chart were Slow Twistin' by Chubby Checker (with Dee Dee Sharp (#71); Mashed Potato Time by Dee Dee Sharp (#74); When My Little Girl is Smiling by the Drifters (#79); Young World by Rick Nelson (#81); Moments by Joyce Davis (joining Jennell Hawkins' version at #85); If a Woman Answers by Leroy Van Dyke (#88); A Girl Has to Know by the G-Clefs (#94); Johnny Angel by Shelley Fabares (#97); Yes Indeed by Pete Fountain (#98); The Ballad of Thunder Road by Robert Mitchum (#99); Clown Shoes by Johnny Burnette (#100); Dear One by Larry Finnegan (also #100); and Goodbye to Toyland by the Vonnair Sisters (also #100). The Ballad of Thunder Road was the theme song from the movie Thunder Road (1958), which starred Mr. Mitchum and his son James. Mr. Mitchum didn't sing the song in the movie. Goodbye to Toyland was from the movie Babes in Toyland (1961).

40 years ago
1972


Born on this date
Happy Birthday, Sherry!

25 years ago
1987


Died on this date
Danny Kaye, 74
. U.S. entertainer. A man of many talents, Mr. Kaye’s movies included Wonder Man (1945); The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (1947); The Inspector General (1949); On the Riviera (1951); Hans Christian Andersen (1952); Knock on Wood (1954); White Christmas (1954); and The Court Jester (1956). He was one of the original owners of the Seattle Mariners baseball club.

Crime
A United States federal grand jury indicted Israeli air force officer Aviel Sella and said that he and three other Israelis had conspired with convicted spy Jonathan Pollard to obtain secret military data from the United States. Mr. Sella said he could not be arrested unless he came to the U.S.A. voluntarily, and the U.S. officially protested Mr. Sella’s new assignment as commander of Israel’s second-largest air force base.

20 years ago
1992


Economics and finance
The United States Commerce Department reported that the index of leading economic indicators had risen 0.9% in January, the biggest increase in six months.

10 years ago
2002


Died on this date
Harlan Perry Howard, 74
. U.S. songwriter. Mr. Howard wrote more than 4,000 songs, over 100 of which reached the top 10 in the national country chart. His compositions included Heartaches by the Number, I Fall to Pieces, and Busted.

March 2, 2012

80 years ago
1932


On the radio
The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, starring Richard Gordon and Leigh Lovell, on NBC
Tonight's episode: The Hound of the Baskervilles, Part 6

50 years ago
1962


On television tonight
The Twilight Zone, on CBS
Tonight's episode: To Serve Man, starring Lloyd Bochner and Richard Kiel

Basketball
NBA
Philadelphia 169 New York 147 @ Hershey, Pennsylvania

Wilt Chamberlain of the Warriors scored 100 points, an NBA individual record for a single game that still stands. The two-team total of 316 points also set a league record for a single game. 4,124 fans attended the game at Hershey Arena.

40 years ago
1972


Space
The U.S.A. launched Pioneer 10, the first probe to be sent to Jupiter, from Cape Kennedy, Florida.

Crime
French customs agents captured the biggest cache of pure heroin yet recorded—937 pounds—at Marseilles, in the bilges of the Caribbean shrimp boat Le Caprice.

30 years ago
1982


Hit parade
#1 single in Sweden (Topplistan): Die Fogel-Song--Kvack Kvack (2nd week at #1)

Personal
This blogger was presented with the Students Association Scholarship at Grant MacEwan Community College awards ceremony at GMCC’s Jasper Place campus.

25 years ago
1987


Hit parade
#1 single in Australia (Australian Music Report): You Keep Me Hangin' On--Kim Wilde (2nd week at #1)

Died on this date
Randolph Scott, 89
. U.S. actor. Mr. Scott was one of the most popular stars of western movies from the 1940s through the early 1960s. Perhaps his best-known film was his last, Ride the High Country (1962).

Personal
This blogger received a plaque from the Canadian Football League in recognition for submitting the best entry from Alberta in the CFL’s photo contest in 1986. The prize also included a gift certificate from Japan Camera Centre for $100.

Canadiana
Heather Morton, representing Toronto, was chosen Miss Teen Canada 1987. The pageant was televised on CTV.

20 years ago
1992


Died on this date
Sandy Dennis, 54
. U.S. actress. Mainly known as a stage actress, Miss Dennis won the Academy Award for best supporting actress for Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (1966). Her other movies included Up the Down Staircase (1967), Sweet November (1968), The Out of Towners (1970), and The Four Seasons (1981).

10 years ago
2002


Music
This blogger attended a free concert by the musicians of the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra at All Saints Anglican Cathedral. The musicians had been on strike since February 15.

March 1, 2012

320 years ago
1692


Society
Sarah Goode, Sarah Osborne, and a slave woman named Tituba were the first people to be interrogated by authorities in Salem, Massachusetts on accusations of practising witchcraft.

140 years ago
1872


Americana
Yellowstone became the world's first national park.

80 years ago
1932


Crime
Charles Lindbergh, Jr., 20-month-old son of the famous American aviator, was kidnapped from his home near Princeton, New Jersey.

70 years ago
1942


On the radio
The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, starring Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce, on NBC
Tonight's episode: The Giant Rat of Sumatra

60 years ago
1952


Hit parade
#1 singles in the U.S.A. (Billboard): Cry--Johnnie Ray and the Four Lads (Best Seller--9th week at #1, Disc Jockey--8th week at #1, Juke Box--6th week at #1)

U.S.A. Top 10 (Cash Box)
1 Cry--Johnnie Ray and the Four Lads (5th week at #1)
2 Tell Me Why--The Four Aces
--Eddie Fisher
3 Slow Poke--Pee Wee King and his Golden West Cowboys
--Arthur Godfrey
--Helen O'Connell
4 Any Time--Eddie Fisher
5 The Little White Cloud that Cried--Johnnie Ray and the Four Lads
6 Please, Mr. Sun--Johnnie Ray
7 Dance Me Loose--Arthur Godfrey
8 Charmaine--Mantovani and his Orchestra
9 Shrimp Boats--Jo Stafford
10 Tiger Rag--Les Paul and Mary Ford

Singles entering the chart were Tenderly by Rosemary Clooney (#29); Chinatown My Chinatown by Bobby Maxwell and his Swinging Harps (#40); Perfidia by the Four Aces (#41); and Babalu by Xavier Cugat and his Orchestra and Richard Hayes (#46).

50 years ago
1962


Hit parade
#1 single in the U.K. (Record Retailer): Rock-A-Hula Baby/Can't Help Falling in Love--Elvis Presley (2nd week at #1)

On television tonight
The Untouchables, starring Robert Stack, on ABC
Tonight's episode: Takeover

40 years ago
1972


On television tonight
Rod Serling's Night Gallery, on NBC
Tonight's episode: The Caterpillar, starring Joanna Pettet, Laurence Harvey, and John Williams; Little Girl Lost, starring Ed Nelson, William Windom, and Ivor Francis

Labour
Argentine workers ended a two-day general strike. The walkout had been called by the General Confederation of Labour to protest the economic policies of the government of General Alejandro Lanusse.

30 years ago
1982


Hit parade
#1 single in Australia (Kent Music Report): Tainted Love--Soft Cell (2nd week at #1)

Canadiana
Emily Sertic, representing Edmonton, was chosen Miss Teen Canada 1982. The pageant was televised on CTV.

25 years ago
1987


Hit parade
#1 single in France: On se retrouvera--Francis Lalanne

20 years ago
1992


Hit parade
#1 single in the U.K.: Stay--Shakespears Sister (3rd week at #1)

Politics and government
The Dobbie-Beaudoin committee tabled its report to the Canadian House of Commons, calling for “co-operative federalism” that would give the provinces more powers; entrench natives’ inherent right to self-government; recognize Quebec as a distinct society; and reform the Senate, although falling short of a “triple-E” (equal, elected, effective) concept.

Scandal
United States Senator Brock Adams (Democrat—Washington), who had been in public life for three decades, announced that he was dropping his campaign for re-election to the Senate. The announcement came hours after the Seattle Times published an article in which eight unidentified women accused Mr. Adams of mistreating them sexually. One of the women had accused Sen. Adams of drugging and raping her.

Hockey
NHL
Vancouver 11 Calgary 0

February 29, 2012

Born on this date
Happy Birthday, Don Sutherin and Sandy Mains!

60 years ago
1952


On television tonight
Tales of Tomorrow, on ABC
Tonight's episode: The Children's Room, starring Lisa Ayers, John Boruff, and Terry Greene



40 years ago
1972


Baseball
Hank Aaron of the Atlanta Braves became the first player to sign a contract for a salary of $200,000 per season.

20 years ago
1992


Hit parade
#1 single in Australia (ARIA): Love You Right--Euphoria (2nd week at #1)

#1 single in Italy: Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me--George Michael/Elton John (7th week at #1)

#1 single in France: Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me--George Michael/Elton John (2nd week at #1)

#1 single in the U.S.A. (Billboard): To Be with You--Mr. Big

U.S.A. Top 10 (Cash Box)
1 To Be with You--Mr. Big (2nd week at #1)
2 Remember the Time--Michael Jackson
3 I Love Your Smile--Shanice
4 I'm Too Sexy--Right Said Fred
5 Good for Me--Amy Grant
6 Missing You Now--Michael Bolton featuring Kenny G
7 I'll Get By--Eddie Money
8 Vibeology--Paula Abdul
9 The Way I Feel About You--Karyn White
10 Until Your Love Comes Back Around--RTZ

Singles entering the chart included Make it Happen by Mariah Carey (#52).

Canada's Top 10 (RPM)
1 Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me-George Michael/Elton John (2nd week at #1)
2 I'm Too Sexy--Right Said Fred
3 No Regrets--Tom Cochrane
4 There Will Never Be Another Tonight--Bryan Adams
5 Mysterious Ways--U2
6 I Can't Dance--Genesis
7 To Be with You--Mr. Big
8 Diamonds and Pearls--Prince
9 Remember the Time--Michael Jackson
10 Good for Me--Amy Grant

Singles entering the chart included Thought I'd Died and Gone to Heaven by Bryan Adams (#52); A Fishing Tale by The Grapes of Wrath (#74); Until the End of the World by U2 (#75); Empty Arms by Stevie Ray Vaughan (#84); Drawn to the Rhythm by Sarah McLachlan (#86); and Power to the People by Debbie Johnson (#90).

February 28, 2012

120 years ago
1892


Born on this date
Kenneth Wherry
. U.S. politician. Mr. Wherry, a Republican, began his political career in Pawnee City, Nebraska, serving as a city councillor (1927, 1929) and Mayor (1929-1931, 1938-1942), while also sitting in the Nebraska State Senate (1929-1932). He ran unsuccessfully for the Republican Party nomination for Governor of Nebraska (1932) and for the U.S. Senate (1934). Mr. Wherry represented Nebraska in the U.S. Senate from 1943 until his death. Sen. Wherry represented a constituency that included a large population of German ancestry, and he supported a post-World War II policy that expressed concern for the plight of the people of Germany. He held old-style Republican isolationist views, opposing American entry into World War II; the Cold War; the Korean War; Marshall Plan aid to Europe; and homosexuals and Communists in government. Sen. Wherry was Senate Minority Whip (1943-1947); Majority Whip (1947-1949); and Minority Leader (1949-1951); he died from pneumonia at the age of 59 on November 29, 1951, several weeks after undergoing abdominal surgery.

70 years ago
1942


Hit parade
#1 single in the U.S.A. (Billboard): Moonlight Cocktail--Glenn Miller and his Orchestra

50 years ago
1962


Boxing
Cassius Clay (12-0) scored a technical knockout over Don Warner (12-7-2) at 34 seconds of the 4th round of a heavyweight bout at Convention Hall in Miami Beach, Florida.

25 years ago
1987


Hit parade
#1 single in Italy: Si Può Dare Di Più--Gianni Morandi, Umberto Tozzi, and Enrico Ruggeri (3rd week at #1)

#1 single in the U.K.: Stand by Me--Ben E. King (2nd week at #1)

#1 single in the U.S.A. (Billboard): Livin' on a Prayer--Bon Jovi (3rd week at #1)

U.S.A. Top 10 (Cash Box)
1 Livin' on a Prayer--Bon Jovi (3rd week at #1)
2 Open Your Heart--Madonna
3 Jacob's Ladder--Huey Lewis and the News
4 Will You Still Love Me?--Chicago
5 Keep Your Hands to Yourself--Georgia Satellites
6 You Got it All--The Jets
7 Touch Me (I Want Your Body)--Samantha Fox
8 (You Gotta) Fight for Your Right (To Party!)--Beastie Boys
9 Ballerina Girl--Lionel Richie
10 Respect Yourself--Bruce Willis

Singles entering the chart included Keep Your Eye on Me by Herb Alpert (#87); and Power by Kansas (#88).

Canada’s Top 10 (RPM)
1 Touch Me (I Want Your Body)--Samantha Fox
2 At this Moment--Billy Vera and the Beaters
3 Shake You Down--Gregory Abbott
4 Keep Your Hands to Yourself--Georgia Satellites
5 C'est la Vie--Robbie Nevil
6 Walk Like an Egyptian--Bangles
7 Livin' on a Prayer--Bon Jovi
8 Will You Still Love Me?--Chicago
9 Respect Yourself--Bruce Willis
10 Ballerina Girl--Lionel Richie

Singles entering the chart were Wild Horses by Gino Vannelli (#87); I Knew You were Waiting (For Me) by Aretha Franklin and George Michael (#89); Tonight, Tonight, Tonight by Genesis (#90); Dancing with My Mirror by Corey Hart (#93); Lean on Me by Club Nouveau (#94); Brother Louie by Modern Talking (#97); and Only Love Remains by Paul McCartney (#98).

Died on this date
Joan Greenwood, 65
. U.K. actress. Miss Greenwood had a stage career spanning almost 50 years, and appeared in movies such as Kind Hearts and Coronets (1949); The Man in the White Suit (1951); and Tom Jones (1963). She died as the result of acute bronchitis and asthma, four days before her 66th birthday.

10 years ago
2002


Economics and finance
The last day for the legal use of currencies in Euro Zone nations passed uneventfully, as most people had switched to Euros weeks before.

Saturday 18 February 2012

February 27, 2012

160 years ago
1852


Born on this date
John McLane
. U.K.-born U.S. politician. Mr. McLane, a native of Scotland, moved to New Hampshire with his family at the age of 1, and was a furniture manufacturer before entering politics. A Republican, he was elected to the New Hampshire House of Representatives in 1885. Mr. McLane served two terms in the N.H. Senate (1891-1894), and was President of the Senate for both terms. He was Governor of New Hampshire from 1905-1907, and died on April 13, 1911 at the age of 59.

120 years ago
1892


Born on this date
William Demarest
. U.S. actor. Mr. Demarest was a character actor in many movies in the 1930s and '40s, usually playing gruff characters with a "heart of gold." He was best known as Uncle Charley in the television comedy series My Three Sons (1965-1972). Mr. Demarest died on December 28, 1983 at the age of 91.

Died on this date
Louis Vuitton, 70
. French fashion designer. Mr. Vuitton founded the Louis Vuitton leather goods company in 1854.

50 years ago
1962


On television tonight
Alfred Hitchcock Presents, on NBC
Tonight's episode: Burglar Proof, starring Paul Hartman, Robert Webber, Philip Ober, and Whit Bissell

30 years ago
1982


Hit parade
#1 single in the U.K.: Town Called Malice/Precious--The Jam (3rd week at #1)

#1 single in the U.S.A.: (Billboard): Centerfold--J. Geils Band (4th week at #1)

U.S.A. Top 10 (Cash Box)
1 Centerfold--J. Geils Band (5th week at #1)
2 I Can't Go for That (No Can Do)--Daryl Hall & John Oates
3 Shake it Up--The Cars
4 Physical--Olivia Newton-John
5 Open Arms--Journey
6 That Girl--Stevie Wonder
7 Harden My Heart--Quarterflash
8 Sweet Dreams--Air Supply
9 Leader of the Band--Dan Fogelberg
10 Mirror, Mirror--Diana Ross

Singles entering the chart were Baby Makes Her Blue Jeans Talk by Dr. Hook (#78); '65 Love Affair by Paul Davis (#80); Never Give Up on a Good Thing by George Benson (#86); Don't Let Me In by Sneaker (#86); Mama Used to Say by Junior (#87); Get Down on It by Kool & The Gang (#88); and Shine On by George Duke (#89).

Canada’s Top 10 (RPM)
1 Tainted Love--Soft Cell
2 Centerfold--J. Geils Band
3 I Can't Go for That (No Can Do)--Daryl Hall & John Oates
4 Our Lips are Sealed--Go-Go's
5 Physical--Olivia Newton-John
6 Letting Go--Straight Lines
7 Tonight I'm Yours--Rod Stewart
8 Let's Groove--Earth, Wind and Fire
9 Young Turks--Rod Stewart
10 Turn Your Love Around--George Benson

Singles entering the chart were Don't Break My Heart by Kasim Sultan (#40); Do You Believe in Love by Huey Lewis and the News (#41); Daddy's Home by Cliff Richard (#43); Juke Box Hero by Foreigner (#44); Freeze Frame by J. Geils Band (#47); That Girl by Stevie Wonder (#48); We Got the Beat by the Go-Go's (#49); and Love is Like a Rock by Donnie Iris (#50).

Crime
Wayne Williams was convicted of killing 2 of 28 young Negro men who had been murdered in Atlanta during a period of several years prior to Mr. Williams’ arrest on May 22, 1981. The trial lasted nine weeks, and Mr. Williams was sentenced to two consecutive terms of life in prison. Mr. Williams had been arrested near the Jackson Parkway Bridge over the Chattahoochee River northwest of Atlanta, shortly after a policeman heard a loud splash and saw Mr. Williams drive away. Two days later, the body of 27-year-old Nathaniel Cater surfaced about a mile downstream from the bridge.

Bowling
Earl Anthony rolled five straight strikes to defeat Charlie Tapp and win the Toledo Trust PBA National Championship in Toledo, Ohio. With the victory, Mr. Anthony became the first person in the history of the Professional Bowlers Association to amass $1 million in career earnings.

25 years ago
1987


Economics and finance
The United States Labor Department reported that consumer prices had risen 0.7% in January, while the Commerce Department announced a trade deficit of $14.78 billion in January.

20 years ago
1992


Golf
Tiger Woods, a 16-year-old amateur, became the youngest person to compete in a PGA tour event when he participated in the Nissan Los Angeles Open at the Riviera Country Club. Mr. Woods posted a 1-over par score of 72 in the first round, but shot a 4-over par 75 the following day in the second round and missed the cut.

10 years ago
2002


Died on this date
Spike Milligan, 83
. U.K. comedian. Mr. Milligan was one of the stars of the BBC radio comedy program The Goon Show (1951-1960). His style influenced future generations of British comedians, such as the Monty Python troupe.

Disasters
59 Hindu pilgrims died in India when fire broke out on the Sabarmati Express train, which was just pulling out of Godhra, Gujarat, bound for Ahmedabad.

February 26, 2012

Born on this date
Happy Birthday, Fats Domino!

75 years ago
1937


At the movies
Die Graue Dame (The Grey Lady), starring Hermann Speelmans as Jimmy Ward (Sherlock Holmes), opened in theatres in Germany.

60 years ago
1952


On television tonight
Suspense, on CBS
Tonight's episode: Night Drive, starring Robert H. Harris, Brian Keith, and Neva Patterson

50 years ago
1962


On television tonight
Thriller, hosted by Boris Karloff, on NBC
Tonight's episode: The Incredible Doktor Markesan, starring Boris Karloff, Dick York, and Carolyn Kearney



40 years ago
1972


Hit parade
#1 single in the U.K.: Son of My Father--Chicory Tip (2nd week at #1)

Australia's Top 10 (Go-Set)
1 Brand New Key--Melanie
2 Ernie (The Fastest Milkman in the West)--Benny Hill
3 Cherish--David Cassidy
4 The Desiderata--Les Crane
5 Day by Day--Colleen Hewitt
6 Imagine--John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band
7 Captain Zero--The Mixture
8 Ranger's Waltz--The Mom and Dads
9 American Pie, Parts I and II--Don McLean
10 Theme from Shaft--Isaac Hayes

Singles entering the chart were I've Found Someone of My Own by the Free Movement (#31); Jeepster by T. Rex (#32); Black Dog by Led Zeppelin (#35); and Memories by Ted Mulry (#36).

#1 single in the U.S.A. (Billboard): Without You--Nilsson (2nd week at #1)

U.S.A. Top 10 (Cash Box)
1 Precious and Few--Climax
2 Without You--Nilsson
3 Hurting Each Other--Carpenters
4 Let's Stay Together--Al Green
5 Down by the Lazy River--The Osmonds
6 The Lion Sleeps Tonight--Robert John
7 Joy--Apollo 100
8 Everything I Own--Bread
9 Sweet Seasons--Carole King
10 Stay with Me--Faces

Singles entering the chart were King Heroin by James Brown (#70); Since I Fell for You by Laura Lee (#77); Afro-Strut by the Nite-Liters (#88); It's All Up to You by the Dells (#89); Suavecito by Malo (#91); Son of My Father by Chicory Tip (#94); Love the Life I Lead by the Fantastics (#96); Thank God for You Baby by Pacific Gas & Electric (#98); One Way Sunday by Mark-Almond (#99); and Mercedes Benz by Goose Creek Symphony (#100).

Canada’s Top 10 (RPM)
1 Love Me, Love Me, Love--Frank Mills
2 Hurting Each Other--Carpenters
3 Never Been to Spain--Three Dog Night
4 Stay with Me--Faces
5 American Pie, Parts I and II--Don McLean
6 Down by the Lazy River--The Osmonds
7 Day After Day--Badfinger
8 Without You--Nilsson
9 Precious and Few--Climax
10 Cotton Jenny--Anne Murray

Singles entering the chart were Heartbroken Bopper by the Guess Who (#74); Puppy Love by Donny Osmond (#84); Could it Be Forever by David Cassidy (#87); Waking Up Alone by Paul Williams (#89); Get Down To by Mainline (#92); A Horse with No Name by America (#93); A Cowboys Work is Never Done by Sonny and Cher (#94); Hey Lord by Robert Salagan (#96); Crazy Mama by J.J. Cale (#98); and Together Again by Bobby Sherman (#99).

Calgary's Top 10 (Glenn's Music)
1 Without You--Nilsson (3rd week at #1)
2 Mozart Serenade No. 13--Manuel de Falla Orchestra, conducted by Waldo De Los Rios
3 Never Been to Spain--Three Dog Night
4 I am a Preacher--Tony Kingston
5 Down by the Lazy River--The Osmonds
6 Mercedes Benz--Goose Creek Symphony
7 Life in the Bloodstream--The Guess Who
8 My Love Sings--Joey Gregorash
9 Don't Say You Don't Remember--Beverly Bremers
10 Brand New Key--Melanie
Pick hit of the week: Country Wine--Raiders

Diplomacy
U.S. President Richard Nixon continued his visit to China, attending, with Chinese Premier Chou En-lai, a table tennis exhibition. A Chinese team had visited the United States the previous spring, in what became known as "Ping Pong Diplomacy."

30 years ago
1982


Hit parade
Yellowknife's top 25 (CJCD)
1 Centerfold--J. Geils Band
2 I Can't Go for That (No Can Do)--Daryl Hall and John Oates
3 Leader of the Band--Dan Fogelberg
4 Shake it Up--The Cars
5 Waiting on a Friend--Rolling Stones
6 Sweet Dreams--Air Supply
7 Open Arms--Journey
8 Turn Your Love Around--George Benson
9 You Could Have Been with Me--Sheena Easton
10 Hooked on Classics--Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
11 Abacab--Genesis
12 Take it Easy on Me--Little River Band
13 Cool Night--Paul Davis
14 Love is Alright Tonite--Rick Springfield
15 Spirits in the Material World--The Police
16 The Friends of Mr. Cairo--Jon and Vangelis
17 That Girl--Stevie Wonder
18 Tonight I'm Yours--Rod Stewart
19 Mirror, Mirror--Diana Ross
20 Harden My Heart--Quarterflash
21 I Believe--Chilliwack
22 Make a Move on Me--Olivia Newton-John
23 Young Turks--Rod Stewart
24 Should I Do It--Pointer Sisters
25 I Love Rock 'N' Roll--Joan Jett and the Blackhearts

Terrorism
Four men hijacked a jet as it was flying over Tanzania and demanded the resignation of Tanzanian President Julius Nyerere. The pilot was forced to fly first to Nairobi and then to Jidda, Saudi Arabia, where the hijackers and their 90 hostages spent the night. It was reported that 2 hostages had been killed.

25 years ago
1987


On television tonight
Our World, hosted by Linda Ellerbee and Ray Gandolf, on ABC
Tonight's episode: Between the Lines: Summer 1972



Abominations
The Church of England General Synod voted 317-145 in favour of the ordination of female priests.

20 years ago
1992


Hit parade
#1 single in Sweden (Topplistan): Justified & Ancient--The KLF (featuring Tammy Wynette) (4th week at #1)

On television tonight
The Wonder Years, on ABC
Tonight's episode: Double Double Date

10 years ago
2002


Died on this date
Lawrence Tierney, 82
. U.S. actor. Mr. Tierney was known for playing tough guys, starring in films such as Dillinger (1945); Born to Kill (1947); and The Devil Thumbs a Ride (1947). He was as tough offstage as on, accumulating a long criminal rap sheet for bar fights that severely impaired his career. Mr. Tierney appeared in numerous plays and television programs, and achieved some success in later years, with supporting roles in the movies Tough Guys Don't Dance (1987) and Reservoir Dogs (1992), and playing the desk sergeant in the television series Hill Street Blues. He made one appearance in the television comedy series Seinfeld as Alton Benes, the father of Elaine Benes, but the rest of the cast were so intimidated by Mr. Tierney, that he was never invited back. He died of pneumonia, 17 days before his 83rd birthday.

February 25, 2012

90 years ago
1922


Died on this date
Henri Landru, 52
. French criminal. Mr. Landru, better known as "Bluebeard," was known to have murdered at least 10 women and a young man from December 1914-January 1919, although the actual number of victims was probably higher. He was convicted on November 30, 1921 of 11 murders, and was guillotined outside the gates of the Prison Saint-Pierre in Versailles.

60 years ago
1952


On television tonight
Lights Out, on NBC
Tonight's episode: The Perfect Servant, starring Joseph Allen, Henry Daniell, and Albert Dekker

40 years ago
1972


Died on this date
Phan Dinh Soan, 43
. South Vietnamese military officer. Brigadier General Soan was killed, along with an American officer, three U.S. servicemen, and two South Vietnamese servicemen, in the crash of a U.S. helicopter in Danang Harbor.

War
In fighting east of Saigon, 34 U.S. soldiers were injured, marking the heavies casualties suffered by U.S. forces in ground action in Vietnam in 10 months. The fighting continued from dusk to noon, when the North Vietnamese and Viet Cong forces ambushed the U.S. 3rd Brigade, 1st Air Cavalry Division, which was sweeping Long Khanh province, and ended when U.S. bombers, gunships, and artillery came to the aid of the ground troops.

Labour
British miners ended a seven-week strike after a settlement was reached.

30 years ago
1982


Hit parade
Edmonton's Top 10 (CFRN)
1 I Believe--Chiliwack
2 Should I Do It--Pointer Sisters
3 When All is Said and Done--Abba
4 Open Arms--Journey
5 Tainted Love--Soft Cell
6 Through the Years--Kenny Rogers
7 Sea of Love--Del Shannon
8 All Our Tomorrows--Eddie Schwartz
9 You Could Have Been with Me--Sheena Easton
10 My Guy--Sister Sledge

Abominations
The European Court of Human Rights ruled that the use of corporal punishment in schools was a violation of the Human Rights Convention.

Economics and finance
The United States Labor Department reported that the Consumer Price Index for January had increased 0.3%, the smallest increase since July 1980. The price of food had increased, but there were declines in the prices of gasoline, new cars, houses, and clothing.

25 years ago
1987


Hit parade
#1 single in Sweden: Caravan of Love--The Housemartins (3rd week at #1)

Scandal
The National Collegiate Athletic Association cancelled the 1987 football season for Southern Methodist University as partial punishment for violation of NCAA rules. The NCAA found that SMU officials had given illegal payments totalling $61,000 to 13 football players while the school was already on probation for other rules violations. The money apparently came from a wealthy booster. SMU’s football season for 1988 was limited to 7 games instead of the usual 11, and was barred from television and post-season bowl games until 1990.

20 years ago
1992


Died on this date
Dick Rice, 92
. Canadian broadcasting executive. Dr. Rice was the founder of CFRN radio and television in Edmonton. He secured the license for Edmonton’s first television station in 1948, which was six years before the station went on the air.

February 24, 2012

Born on this date
Happy Birthday, Kavis Reed!

430 years ago
1582


World events
Pope Gregory XII issued a bull introducing the Gregorian calendar.

140 years ago
1872


Born on this date
Gustave Sandras
. French gymnast. Mr. Sandras won the combined men's gymnasics competition at the 1900 Olympic Games in Paris. He died on June 21, 1951 at the age of 79.

80 years ago
1932


On the radio
The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, starring Richard Gordon and Leigh Lovell, on NBC
Tonight's episode: The Hound of the Baskervilles, Part 5

50 years ago
1962


Hit parade
#1 single in Italy: Let's Twist Again--Peppino de Capri

#1 single in the U.K. (New Musical Express): Let's Twist Again--Chubby Checker

#1 single in the U.K. (Record Mirror): Rock-A-Hula Baby/Can't Help Falling in Love--Elvis Presley

In North America, Rock-A-Hula Baby was released as the B-side of the record.

#1 single in the U.S.A. (Billboard): Duke of Earl--Gene Chandler (2nd week at #1)

U.S.A. Top 10 (Cash Box)
1 Duke of Earl--Gene Chandler (4th week at #1)
2 The Twist--Chubby Checker
3 The Wanderer--Dion
4 Hey! Baby--Bruce Channel
5 Peppermint Twist - Part I--Joey Dee & the Starliters
6 Break it to Me Gently--Brenda Lee
7 Midnight in Moscow--Kenny Ball and his Jazzmen
8 Crying in the Rain--The Everly Brothers
9 Norman--Sue Thompson
10 She's Everything (I Wanted You to Be)--Ral Donner

Singles entering the chart were Please Don't Ask About Barbara (#89)/I Can't Say Goodbye (#97) by Bobby Vee (#89); Sweet Thursday by Johnny Mathis (#91); The White Rose of Athens by David Carroll and his Orchestra (#94); You Win Again by Fats Domino (#96); Nut Rocker by B. Bumble and the Stingers (#98); Patti Ann by Johnny Crawford (#99); Roly Poly by Joey Dee and the Starliters (#100); Love Me Warm and Tender by Paul Anka (also #100); and Lover Please by Clyde McPhatter (also #100). Roly Poly was the B-side of Hey, Let's Twist, which charted at #57.

30 years ago
1982


Personal
This blogger won a prize on the 11 to 2 show on CJCA radio in Edmonton.

Hockey
NHL
Edmonton 6 @ Buffalo 3
Wayne Gretzky of the Oilers broke a 3-3 tie with 3 straight goals in the last 7 minutes of the game to win the game for the Oilers. The goals were his 77th, 78th, and 79th of the season, breaking the single-season record of 76 set by Phil Esposito of the Boston Bruins in 1970-71. Mr. Esposito accomplished his feat in a 78-game season, while Mr. Gretzky broke the record in his 64th game of the 1981-82 season.

25 years ago
1987


Space
Ian Shelton, an astronomer working at a University of Toronto observatory in Chile, identified a supernova at a distance of 163,000 light years, the closest supernova since 1604. It was estimated that the object had the brilliance of a billion suns, and that it was expanding at the rate of 9,300 miles per second. The exploding star appeared in the Great Magellanic Cloud, one of several small galaxies regarded as satellites of the Milky Way. It was later determined that the supernova had a companion object of 1/10 the brightness of the supernova and apparently related to it in some way.

20 years ago
1992


Music
This blogger attended a concert by the Ottawa Symphony Orchestra at the National Arts Centre.

10 years ago
2002


Olympics
Men's hockey
Final
Canada 5 U.S.A. 2

Friday 17 February 2012

February 23, 2012

130 years ago
1882


Born on this date
Max Hainle
. German swimmer. Mr. Hainle was a member of the German team that won the gold medal in the men's 200-metre team event at the 1900 Olympic Games in Paris, and finished fourth in the 1000-metre freestyle competition, while also being a member of the German water polo team, which failed to win a medal. He died on April 19, 1961 at the age of 79.

70 years ago
1942


War
The first Axis shelling of American soil took place near Santa Barbara, California.

60 years ago
1952


Hit parade
#1 singles in the U.S.A. (Billboard): Cry--Johnnie Ray and the Four Lads (Best Seller--8th week at #1, Disc Jockey--7th week at #1, Juke Box--5th week at #1)

U.S.A. Top 10 (Cash Box)
1 Cry--Johnnie Ray and the Four Lads (4th week at #1)
2 Tell Me Why--The Four Aces
--Eddie Fisher
3 Slow Poke--Pee Wee King and his Golden West Cowboys
--Arthur Godfrey
--Helen O'Connell
4 The Little White Cloud that Cried--Johnnie Ray and the Four Lads
5 Any Time--Eddie Fisher
6 Shrimp Boats--Jo Stafford
7 Charmaine--Mantovani and his Orchestra
8 Dance Me Loose--Arthur Godfrey
9 Please, Mr. Sun--Johnnie Ray
10 Tiger Rag--Les Paul and Mary Ford

Singles entering the chart were Wheel of Fortune, with versions by Kay Starr, Bobby Wayne, and the Eddie Wilcox Orchestra with Sunny Gale (#26); Stolen Love by Eddy Howard (#28); At Last, at Last, with versions by Bing Crosby and Tony Martin (#32); and Temptation by Mario Lanza (#38).

50 years ago
1962


On television tonight
The Twilight Zone, on CBS
Tonight's episode: The Last Rites of Jeff Myrtlebank, starring James Best and Sherry Jackson

40 years ago
1972


On television tonight
Rod Serling's Night Gallery, on NBC
Tonight's episode: You Can't Get Help Like That Anymore, starring Cloris Leachman, Broderick Crawford, and Lana Wood; The Sins of the Fathers, starring Geraldine Page, Richard Thomas, and Michael Dunn

Terrorism
Five Palestinian hijackers released all 172 passengers from a Lufthansa jet they had commandeered over India two days earlier and taken to Yemen.

30 years ago
1982


Hit parade
#1 single in Sweden (Topplistan): Die Fogel-Song--Kvack Kvack

25 years ago
1987


Hit parade
#1 single in Australia (Australian Music Report): Walk Like an Egyptian--Bangles (2nd week at #1)

20 years ago
1992


Hit parade
#1 single in the U.K.: Stay--Shakespears Sister (2nd week at #1)

Olympics
Men's hockey
Final
United Team (Commonwealth of Independent States) 3 Canada 1

February 22, 2012

Born on this date
Happy Birthday, Laura Pereverzoff Ong!

280 years ago
1732


Born on this date
George Washington
. 1st President of the United States of America, 1789-1797. "The Father of his Country" was born in Westmoreland County, Virginia.

70 years ago
1942


On the radio
The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, starring Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce, on NBC
Tonight's episode: The Sussex Vampire

60 years ago
1952


On television tonight
Tales of Tomorrow, on ABC
Tonight's episode: Memento, starring Barbara Joyce and Boris Karloff

50 years ago
1962


Hit parade
#1 single in the U.K. (Record Retailer): Rock-A-Hula Baby/Can't Help Falling in Love--Elvis Presley

In North America, Rock-A-Hula Baby was released as the B-side of the record and Can't Help Falling in Love as the A-side.

40 years ago
1972


Terrorism
Five women and an Army priest were killed in an Irish Republican Army bombing attack on the 16th Parachute Brigade headquarters at Aldershot, Hampshire, England.

30 years ago
1982


Hit parade
#1 single in Australia (Kent Music Report): Tainted Love--Soft Cell

25 years ago
1987


Hit parade
#1 single in France: T'en va pas--Elsa (8th week at #1)

Died on this date
Andy Warhol, 58
. U.S. artist. Mr. Warhol, born Andrew Warhola, was a leading figure in the New York-based “Pop Art” movement in the 1960s. He was best known for his painting of a Campbell’s soup can, and his comment (with variations thereof frequently repeated) that everyone should be famous for 15 minutes. He died of complications following gall bladder surgery.

World events
Ethiopian dictator Lieutenant Colonel Mengistu Haile Mariam announced that 96% of eligible voters had participated in the Feb. 1 vote on the country’s constitution, and that 81% had voted in favour of a new constitution establishing a civilian Communist government. The nation would now be called the People’s Republic of Ethiopia, with the 50,000-member Worker’s Party to be the “vanguard” of the one-party state.

20 years ago
1992


Hit parade
#1 single in Australia (ARIA): Love You Right--Euphoria

#1 single in Italy: Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me--George Michael/Elton John (6th week at #1)

#1 single in France: Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me--George Michael/Elton John

#1 single in the U.S.A. (Billboard): I'm Too Sexy--Right Said Fred (3rd week at #1)

U.S. top 10 (Cash Box)
1 To Be with You--Mr. Big
2 I Love Your Smile--Shanice
3 The Way I Feel About You--Karyn White
4 I'm Too Sexy--Right Said Fred
5 Diamonds and Pearls--Prince and the New Power Generation
6 Remember the Time--Michael Jackson
7 Good for Me--Amy Grant
8 There Will Never Be Another Tonight--Bryan Adams
9 I'll Get By--Eddie Money
10 Missing You Now--Michael Bolton featuring Kenny G

Singles entering the chart were Romeo and Juliet by Stacy Earl (featuring Wild Pair) (#55); Everything Changes by Kathy Troccoli (#60); If You Go Away by New Kids on the Block (#69); Peace of Mind (Love Goes On) by One 2 One (#70); Church of Your Heart by Roxette (#73); Kissing the Wind by Nia Peeples (#76); Beauty and the Beast by Celine Dion and Peabo Bryson (#77); I Need Money by Marky Mark and Funky Bunch (#79); and Do Not Pass Me By by Hammer (#80). Beauty and the Beast was the title song from the movie.

Canada's top 10 (RPM)
1 Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me-George Michael/Elton John
2 There Will Never Be Another Tonight--Bryan Adams
3 No Regrets--Tom Cochrane
4 I'm Too Sexy--Right Said Fred
5 Mysterious Ways--U2
6 Diamonds and Pearls--Prince and the New Power Generation
7 I Can't Dance--Genesis
8 To Be with You--Mr. Big
9 Smells Like Teen Spirit--Nirvana
10 Good for Me--Amy Grant

Singles entering the chart were Head Over Heals by Frozen Ghost (#81); Ghost of a Texas Ladies Man by Concrete Blonde (#82); Cry Myself to Sleep by Chrissy Steele (#84); The Time Alone with You by Bad English (#89); Be My Yoko Ono by Barenaked Ladies (#90); The Road by Honeymoon Suite (#91); Show Me the Way by West End Girls (#94); and Make it Happen by Mariah Carey (#97).

10 years ago
2002


Died on this date
Chuck Jones, 89
. U.S. animator. Mr. Jones created some of the most beloved cartoon characters in history, including Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Porky Pig, Elmer Fudd, Pepe le Pew, the Road Runner, Wile E. Coyote, and Marvin the Martian.

Jonas Savimbi, 67. Angolan guerrilla leader. Mr Savimbi, the leader of the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA), originally fought alongside the Marxist-oriented Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA) and the U.S.-backed Front for the Liberation of Angola (FNLA) in the war for liberation from Portuguese colonial rule in the 1970s, but later waged war on the MPLA-led post-independence government.

Olympics
Men's hockey
Semi-finals
Canada 7 Belarus 1
U.S.A. 3 Russia 2

February 21, 2012

575 years ago
1437


Died on this date
James I, 42
. King of Scotland, 1406-1437. James I, the son of King Robert III, was sent to France in March 1406 in order to be safe from a possible plot by his uncle Robert, Duke of Albany. However, the ship was seized by English pirates on its way to France, and James was delivered to King Henry IV of England, and was in captivity when King Robert died on April 4, 1406. James I was educated at the English court and aided Henry IV's successor Henry V in his military campaign in France in 1420-1421. King James married Joan Beaufort, daughter of the Duke of Somerset, in February 1424, and was released two months later. He returned to Scotland and launched pre-emptive attacks against some of his nobles in order to solidify his position. King James I was assassinated by his uncle Walter Stewart, Earl of Atholl in an unsuccessful coup attempt. Queen Joan was seriously wounded, but escaped with their 6-year-old son, who succeeded his father as King James II.

70 years ago
1942


Hit parade
#1 single in the U.S.A. (Billboard): A String of Pearls--Glenn Miller and his Orchestra (2nd week at #1)

Died on this date
Heinz Hitler, 21
. German soldier. Unteroffizier Hitler, a nephew of Fuehrer Adolf Hitler, served with the Wehrmacht on the Eastern Front during World War II, and participated in Operation Barbarossa, the invasion of the Soviet Union. He was captured by Soviet forces on January 10, 1942, and died, reportedly after torture, in Butyrka military prison in Moscow, 22 days before his 22nd birthday.

60 years ago
1952


Olympics
Dick Button of the United States defeated Helmut Seibt of Austria to win the men's figure skating competition for the second straight Olympics. Skating at Bislett Stadium in Oslo to Enesco's Rumanian Rhapsody, Mr. Button became the first skater to complete three consecutive double axels.

40 years ago
1972


Diplomacy
U.S. President Richard Nixon became the first American president to visit the People's Republic of China as he arrived to begin a week-long summit.

30 years ago
1982


Hockey
NHL
New York Islanders 3 @ Pittsburgh 4

The Islanders' loss to the Penguins at Civic Arena ended their record 15-game winning streak.

25 years ago
1987


Hit parade
#1 single in Italy: Si Può Dare Di Più--Gianni Morandi, Umberto Tozzi, and Enrico Ruggeri (2nd week at #1)

#1 single in the U.K.: Stand by Me--Ben E. King

#1 single in the U.S.A. (Billboard): Livin' on a Prayer--Bon Jovi (2nd week at #1)

U.S. top 10 (Cash Box)
1 Livin' on a Prayer--Bon Jovi (2nd week at #1)
2 Open Your Heart--Madonna
3 At this Moment--Billy Vera and the Beaters
4 Will You Still Love Me?--Chicago
5 Keep Your Hands to Yourself--Georgia Satellites
6 Jacob's Ladder--Huey Lewis and the News
7 Touch Me (I Want Your Body)--Samantha Fox
8 You Got it All--The Jets
9 Ballerina Girl--Lionel Richie
10 Change of Heart--Cyndi Lauper

Singles entering the chart included I Knew You were Waiting (For Me) by Aretha Franklin and George Michael (#52); Dominoes by Robbie Nevil (#73); Nothing's Gonna Change My Love for You by Glenn Medeiros (#84); Boom Boom by Paul Lekakis (#85); The Lady in Red by Chris DeBurgh (#87); and Light of Day by the Barbusters. Light of Day was the title song from the movie; the Barbusters were actually Joan Jett and the Blackhearts.

Canada’s top 10 (RPM)
1 At this Moment--Billy Vera and the Beaters (2nd week at #1)
2 Shake You Down--Gregory Abbott
3 Touch Me (I Want Your Body)--Samantha Fox
4 C'est la Vie--Robbie Nevil
5 Walk Like an Egyptian--Bangles
6 Keep Your Hands to Yourself--Georgia Satellites
7 Can't Help Falling in Love--Corey Hart
8 Open Your Heart--Madonna
9 Everybody Have Fun Tonight--Wang Chung
10 Will You Still Love Me?--Chicago

Singles entering the chart were Fire by Bruce Springsteen (#90); Dirty Water by Rock and Hyde (#93); Skin Trade by Duran Duran (#95); Should I Know by Frozen Ghost (#96); American Singer by Bundock (#97); and Act of Mercy by Luba (#98).

Hockey
NHL
New York Islanders 6 @ Montreal 5

This was the national Hockey Night in Canada broadcast.

20 years ago
1992


Olympics
Women's figure skating
Kristi Yamaguchi of the United States won the competition at Albertville, France, becoming the first American woman to win the gold medal since Dorothy Hamill in 1976. Despite hailing from California, Miss Yamaguchi trained at the Royal Glenora Club in Edmonton, Alberta.

Men's hockey
Canada 4 Czech Republic 2

10 years ago
2002


Died on this date
John Thaw, 60
. U.K. actor. Mr. Thaw was best known as the star of the Inspector Morse television mysteries (1987-2000).

Abominations
A video was released that confirmed that Daniel Pearl, a reporter with The Wall Street Journal, had been beheaded by Islamic terrorists in Pakistan on February 1, nine days after being kidnapped in Karachi.

Olympics
16-year-old Sarah Hughes of the United States won the gold medal in the women's figure skating competition at Salt Lake City.