Bugs Bunny reaches the big 081: Happy birthday to America's smartest cartoon character born on 7/27/1940

This is a repost from previous Happy b-day Blogger posts

Bugs Bunny reaches the big 081: Happy birthday to America's smartest cartoon character born on 7/27/1940

“Eh...What’s up Doc?” 

~~ Bugs Bunny

Bugs Bunny’s most famous catchphrase introduced at the debut of cartoon short, “A Wild Hare,” on July 27, 1940

Hard to believe, the world's smartest cartoon character, Bugs Bunny, turns 81 years young today (7/27/20). Bugs was born with the release of cartoon short, "A Wild Hare," directed by Tex Avery, on July 27, 1940.

According to the publication "Bugs Bunny: 50 Years and Only One Grey Hare," Bugs was born in Brooklyn, New York, in a warren under Ebbets Field, home of the Brooklyn Dodgers. 

Actually, he was created by many animators and staff, including Tex Avery. According to the late Mel Blanc, the character's original voice actor, Bugs has a Flatbush accent.  He still stands as the funniest and smartest cartoon character ever ~ always the underdog yet outsmarting his tormentors. According to Kwame Opam of The Verge, "...As a character, Bugs Bunny is king, and he's as close to an animated culture hero as we're going to get..." 


A Wild Hare, was the first cartoon where both Elmer Fudd and Bugs are shown in their fully developed forms as hunter and tormentor.

In this cartoon Mel Blanc first uses what would become Bugs' standard voice; this cartoon also marks the first time that Bugs uses his catchphrase, "What's up, Doc?"

Animation historian Joe Adamson deems "A Wild Hare" as the first "official" Bugs Bunny short. The short was a huge success in theaters and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film.




Other Resources 
►A Brief History of Bugs Bunny, Bathroom Reader, Comics & Cartoons on Nov 8, 2010
► BugsBunnyBurrow.com
► Wikiquote.org; Bugs Bunny Quotes
► Yahoo Voice, The History of Bugs Bunny
► Bugs Bunny at the Symphony (Tour dates - 2012-2013
► Wikipedia.org: Listing of Bugs Bunny cartoons in chronological order 
► YouTube.com - The Wild Hare, starring Elmer Fudd, July 27, 1940



This post is a reprint from earlier posts by allthingsdigitalmarketing blog. Please share this on your LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and other social media networks you enjoy! Thanks!

All photos courtesy of Wikimedia unless otherwise indicated.

Nine years ago today ~ Marketing and the importance of purpose: First of a series of “evergreen marketing insights” by Gloria Buono-Daly

This is a reposting with a few edits. The first of a series of evergreen marketing insights initially posted on Examiner 9 years ago - July 12, 2012!

Do you have your purpose statement or personal brand statement?  Well, you should! Here's mine:

"I'm just an "unthinkable resilientist" simplifying the complex and obstructing the negative. 

Now it's your turn to tell me yours. You never know, you may end up inventing a new word organically, just like I did.

Purpose, it’s important, we all have it and use it in our everyday lives. Yet whenever one is asked to define his/her purpose, why is it so difficult to answer?  What are your apprehensions? 

The rust on the fence symbolizes aging, no longer resilient yet still cool and beautiful. The fence atop the railroad, a reminder sometimes we need to stop to enjoy the beauty, be cautious and stay on track. 

Photo credit: Gloria Buono-Daly, taken in NYC, Spring 2011

There are so many books/blog posts/articles, etc., both digitally and in print about personal branding and the importance of knowing your purpose. 

Photo credit: Gloria Buono-Daly, taken in NYC March 2012.

 One of the many things we don’t learn in school or on the job is the importance of personal brand.

How else can you create an innovative marketing plan and understand the purpose of your plan without initially understanding the real meaning of why you are here?

Marketing, like purpose, is having a clear perspective, confidence and drive, ultimately bringing substantial contributions and value in everything you do.

Just as no two fingerprints are alike, no two marketers are alike - we all have a special and unique story that is incorporated into our work whether we are aware of it or not. 

 There may be similar skill-sets, education, or a generic marketing plan/guideline, but it is the unique initiative, thinking, and creative execution in our work that motivates us to act and accomplish.

When tackling the question “what is your purpose?” one may perceive it as networking all the time or being on the Internet all day writing, but to say this would be deceiving. Gravitating towards networking in person or on the Internet, illustrates the enjoyment and appreciation of meeting and learning about others, e.g., marketers, writers, etc.

This also illustrates interest and enthusiasm to participate interactively by sharing comments, suggestions, and ideas. This can be mentally stimulating (like reading a good book or tablet). If this action touched one person or encouraged many to think, imagine, and improve, then this has made a difference and helped someone.

There are many reasons why purpose is a major element for marketers and personal brand. Think about it and share your thoughts, which will be incorporated into the next series article titled, "Marketing and the importance of being personal."

One of my favorite inspiring quotes to help you find and define your purpose:  

"Out of clutter, find simplicity. From discord, find harmony. In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity."   ~ Albert Einstein, German theoretical physicist, world renown as the father of Physics, (March 14, 1879 – April 18, 1955)



This article was first posted on Examiner.com on July 12, 2012). Marketing and the importance of purpose: First of a series of “evergreen marketing insights”



AllThingsDigitalMarketing Blog introducing article on Examiner at http://myblog.allthingsdigitalmarketing.com/2012/07/my-first-of-series-of-marketing.html

Happy 245th Independence Day America! Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks, still on but mostly likely fewer in-person crowds than normal. Enjoy it digitally or on TV. How Will You Be Celebrating?

This blog has been updated from previous July 4th articles on AllThingsDigitalMarketing blog. Thank you for visiting, and please share with your social media and professional networks. Thanks.

Happy 245th Independence Day America! Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks, still on but most likely fewer in-person crowds than normal. Progress since last year, when no in-person crowds were allowed due to COVID19.  Enjoy it in NYC in person, digitally or on TV.  

How do you plan on Celebrating? 

Happy 245th Independence Day America! The 81st Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks, the nation’s largest Independence Day display, on the East River still on but no in-person crowds in New York City will begin at 8 p.m. and broadcast on NBC, Sunday, July 4th.  The actual fireworks will begin after 9 p.m. over the East River in Midtown Manhattan.  

How Will You Be Celebrating?  This is the 2nd July 4th during COVID19.

Where to watch this years Macys Fireworks show. Some areas in NYC to watch include East 23rd, East 34th and East 42nd streets. Click here for more locations and answers to frequently asked questions. 

Here's the 202 Google July 4th Doodle - it's an animated Bald Eagle Parade - America's national symbol of freedom and sovereignty. The bald eagle was selected on June 20, 1782 as the emblem of the USA because of its long life, great strength and majestic looks - also at that time, it was thought to be only present in the United States.  More information at baldeagleinfo.com. 

I just love the 2020 Google July 4th Doodle it's an adorable interactive celebration (this link takes you to information and history behind the Google July 4th doodles. For the actual doodle on the google search engine, see below video on YouTube  and enjoy!

Last year, Google's doodle had an interactive July 4th interactive  baseball doodle! 

Here's Google's 2019 Fourth of July doodle - enjoy this interactive doodle which lets you play baseball game.


And here's one of my favorite quotes about America's Happy Independence Day, July 4th!

“You have to love a nation that celebrates its independence every July 4, not with a parade of guns, tanks, and soldiers who file by the White House in a show of strength and muscle, but with family picnics where kids throw Frisbees, the potato salad gets iffy, and the flies die from happiness. 

You may think you have overeaten, but it is patriotism.” ~ Erma Bombeck, American humorist, reknown suburban home life newapaper columnist chronicling ordinary life of a midwestern suburban housewife (mid-1960s - late 1990s); Publisher of 15 books, most bestsellers; On patriotism & Independence Day.

Video from lmy 7/4th 2018 fireworks show at Cross County Shopping Center, Yonkers, NY 

Visit this link for more information about
Macy’s  Fireworks - Macy's lit light up the Brooklyn Bridge with fireworks and will also light Smartphones for 1st time ever (2017)! Will you be syncing your smartphone this July 4th?
Visit this link  Celebrate 4th of July with Macys!  according t0 NYCGO.com 


Visit this link Best Places to Watch Fireworks in NYC 

Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks, the nation’s largest Independence Day display, returned to the East River a few years back and it's still here :)   

How Will You Be Celebrating??
For things to do in NYC on July 4th visit the following posts: 
Δ Where to Watch Macys July Fourth Fireworks as listed on www.macys.com/social/fireworks/
ΔFifth Annual Freedom Fest, July 4, 2019  (here's link from July 4, 2018)
Δ Fourth of July in New York City post by NYC TOURIST.
Δ Fourth of July at SkyRoom, Hells Kitchen, NYC
Δ Where to Eat and Drink on July Fourth in NYC

No plans yet? You can always play baseball with Google's 2019 4th interactive doodle!

Here's Google's 2019 Fourth of July doodle - enjoy this interactive doodle which lets you play baseball game.

Here's Google's wonderful doodle from 2018 Fourth of July! 

Happy Independence Day America! Wishing you and yours a happy, healthy and safe one.

However you spend it and whatever you do, please remember to not text while driving or while playing with fireworks. Hard to believe, I swear you can't make this up: On a July 4, 2015 morning on my way home from the Jersey Shore, a lady driver was in her car plucking hairs from her chin on Hope Road before the right turn onto the Garden State Parkway not only during the red light but continuing tweezing even when the light turned green. She must have a hell of a lot of hair on her chin.


Although President Adams's Independence Day prediction was July 2, the actual date the resolution of independence was approved in a closed session of Congress, from the getgo, Americans celebrated independence on July 4th, which is the date shown on the much-publicized Declaration of Independence. Independence Day, commonly known as the Fourth of July, is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, declaring independence from the Kingdom of Great Britain. This year marks the 242nd Anniversary!

Remarkable coincidence is that both John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, the only signers of the Declaration of Independence who later served as Presidents of the United States, died on the same day: July 4, 1826, which was the 50th anniversary of the Declaration.

Although not a signer of the Declaration of Independence, but another Founding Father who became a President, James Monroe, died on July 4, 1831, thus becoming the third president in a row who died on this memorable day. Calvin Coolidge, the 30th President, was born on July 4, 1872, and, so far, is the only President to have been born on Independence Day.

If you happen to be in New York City on July 4th, don't miss Macy's Fourth of July fireworks display on the East River which begins at 9:00pm. This year marks Macy's 41st year celebrating July 4th with fireworks in NYC. More information visit this link at Macy's 4th of July Fireworks!  from FoxNews.  

Photos courtesy of Wikimedia.org unless otherwise indicated.
This blog has been updated from a previous article. Thank you for visiting, and please share with your social media and professional networks. Thanks.

Happy 154th Memorial Day America, Monday, May 31, 2021

 Happy 154th  Memorial Day America, Monday, May 31, 2021

Wishing everyone a very healthy, happy, safe, and COVID19-free weekend.  More important information from MedicineNet's article Safe Memorial Day Planning during COVID-19 Pandemic - enjoy!  Or you You can copy/paste the following link in your browser: https://www.medicinenet.com/safe_memorial_day_planning_during_covid-19-news.htm

This blog is an update from previous Memorial Day blog postings with minor edits. Enjoy!

I call this photo "BIG RED FLOWER."  I took this photo at the Bronx River, 4/29/2014, originally thought it was a tulip.  But realize it's a beautiful, large POPPY symbolic of so many things, during Memorial Day, symbolizing our fallen heroes. 

Let this BIG RED FLOWER be whatever you want it to be, let it mean whatever you want it to mean. Whatever, I hope looking at it brings you some joy and smiles.


Happy Memorial Day Weekend America! We need to keep on remembering and praying for all of our U.S. veterans who have sacrificed their lives fighting for our great country, the U.S.A.

“We cherish too, the Poppy red
That grows on fields where valor led,
It seems to signal to the skies
That blood of heroes never dies."  ~~ Moina Michael (aka Poppy Lady)
U.S. professor and humanitarian who vowed to always wear a red poppy as a symbol of remembrance for those who served in the war. In 1915, inspired by the poem "In Flanders Fields," Moina Michael replied with her own poem, We Shall Keep the Faith, November 1918

In Flanders Fields by John McCrae 
In Flanders Fields the poppies blow,
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky,
The larks, still bravely singing, fly,
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the dead.
Short days ago,
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved and now we lie,
In Flanders Fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe
To you, from failing hands, we throw,
The torch, be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us, who die,
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow,
In Flanders Fields. 

We all seem to forget that we celebrate Memorial Day for the many service members who have lost their lives serving our country. Memorial Day is one of the special times of the year to honor loved ones who have passed and "In Flanders Fields" reminds us of those who have died protecting our country and freedom.

FASHION TRENDS ON MEMORIAL DAY 
 Memorial Day marks the first day of the year for white-wear. The traditional fashion trend, “no white before Memorial Day or after Labor Day” gained popularity as the wealthy began wearing white in the summer. 

Light clothing was the symbol of leisure and black and navy were always the norms for the working class. This fad continued until years later as many began replacing white pants with the likes of bold solids and floral prints, pastel jungle prints, red jumpsuits, neon pink, and cobalt sundresses. 

I was fortunate to receive this 
article from one of my very 
dearest cousins about our late 
fathers and their 2 brothers 
(total 7 brothers, 1 sister).

All 4 brothers served during WWII. We were blessed as all 4 survived; However, we always remember those soldiers who sacrificed their lives. 


FASHION FOR MEN TOO THIS MEMORIAL DAY 
 For all you men out there, check out GQ for ways to wear white on Memorial Day, Three Ways to Wear White on Memorial Day http://www.gq.com/style/blogs/the-gq-eye/2015/05/memorial-day-three-ways-to-wear-white.html 

What to do in NYC on Memorial Day weekend 
► Memorial Day weekend events in NYC, TimeOut http://www.timeout.com/newyork/things-to-do/memorial-day-weekend-events-in-nyc?package_page=36341
►Best beaches near NYC http://www.timeout.com/newyork/attractions/best-beaches?package_page=36341
► The best NYC parks, TimeOut http://www.timeout.com/newyork/parks?package_page=36341
► Memorial Day Parade, NYCCO.com
► New York Memorial Day Weekend Events https://www.eventbrite.com/d/ny--new-york/memorial-day-weekend/
► Best Things to do in NYC, NYCtrip.com
► How to Observe Memorial Day , http://www.usmemorialday.org/observe.htm 

HISTORY OF MEMORIAL DAY 
 The first Memorial Day celebration traces back to May 30, 1868. Memorial Day honors men and women who fought for our country so that we can all be free. 

Originally coined "Decoration Day," Memorial Day is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation's service. Memorial Day is less about barbecues and more about celebrating our nation’s veterans. Don't forget -- raise your flag half-staff -- honor more than one million Americans who gave their lives in service of this country for our freedom. 

Memorial Day was officially proclaimed on May 5, 1868 by General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, in his General Order No. 11, and was first observed on May 30, 1868, when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. The first state to officially recognize the holiday was New York in 1873. By 1890 it was recognized by all of the northern states.

The South refused to acknowledge the day, honoring their dead on separate days until after World War I (when the holiday changed from honoring just those who died fighting in the Civil War to honoring Americans who died fighting in any war). It is now celebrated in almost every State on the last Monday in May (passed by Congress with the National Holiday Act of 1971 (P.L. 90 - 363) to ensure a three day weekend for Federal holidays), though several southern states have an additional separate day for honoring the Confederate war dead: January 19 in Texas, April 26 in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Mississippi; May 10 in South Carolina; and June 3 (Jefferson Davis' birthday) in Louisiana and Tennessee. 
Memorial Day Fashion Trends 
► Enjoy the Long Weekend with Memorial Day Fashion Finds on Glamour.com http://www.glamour.com/fashion/blogs/dressed/2015/05/memorial-day-fashion-sales-2015
► What To Wear For Every Kind Of Memorial Day Weekend http://www.luckyshops.com/article/memorial-day-outfits
► Do You Have to Wait Until After Memorial Day to Wear White? | http://ksoo.com/do-you-have-to-wait-until-after-memorial-day-to-wear-white/?trackback=tsmclip
► Moina Bell Michael: the Idea for the Flanders Fields Memorial Poppy 
Other Resources 
►USmemorialday.org
►Memorial Day Calendar 
►Memorial Day History 
► How to Observe Memorial Day
► Buddy Poppy
► The Story Behind the Poppy
► InflandersFields-YouTube
► InflandersFields-YouTube 

Please share this on your LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and other social media networks you enjoy! Thanks for visiting.

Wishing you and yours a wonderful Memorial Day weekend.

All photos courtesy of Wikimedia unless otherwise indicated.

Bugs Bunny reaches the big 080: Happy birthday to America's smartest cartoon character born on 7/27/1940

This is a repost from previous Happy b-day BB posts

“Eh...What’s up Doc?” 

~~ Bugs Bunny

Bugs Bunny’s most famous catchphrase introduced at the debut of cartoon short, “A Wild Hare,” on July 27, 1940

Hard to believe, the world's smartest cartoon character, Bugs Bunny, turns 80 years young today (7/27/20). Bugs was born with the release of cartoon short, "A Wild Hare," directed by Tex Avery, on July 27, 1940.

According to the publication "Bugs Bunny: 50 Years and Only One Grey Hare," Bugs was born in Brooklyn, New York, in a warren under Ebbets Field, home of the Brooklyn Dodgers. 

Actually, he was created by many animators and staff, including Tex Avery. According to the late Mel Blanc, the character's original voice actor, Bugs has a Flatbush accent.  He still stands as the funniest and smartest cartoon character ever ~ always the underdog yet outsmarting his tormentors. According to Kwame Opam of The Verge, "...As a character, Bugs Bunny is king, and he's as close to an animated culture hero as we're going to get..." 


A Wild Hare, was the first cartoon where both Elmer Fudd and Bugs are shown in their fully developed forms as hunter and tormentor.

In this cartoon Mel Blanc first uses what would become Bugs' standard voice; this cartoon also marks the first time that Bugs uses his catchphrase, "What's up, Doc?"

Animation historian Joe Adamson deems "A Wild Hare" as the first "official" Bugs Bunny short. The short was a huge success in theaters and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film.




Other Resources 
►A Brief History of Bugs Bunny, Bathroom Reader, Comics & Cartoons on Nov 8, 2010
► BugsBunnyBurrow.com
► Wikiquote.org; Bugs Bunny Quotes
► Yahoo Voice, The History of Bugs Bunny
► Bugs Bunny at the Symphony (Tour dates - 2012-2013
► Wikipedia.org: Listing of Bugs Bunny cartoons in chronological order 
► YouTube.com - The Wild Hare, starring Elmer Fudd, July 27, 1940



This post is a reprint from earlier posts by allthingsdigitalmarketing blog. Please share this on your LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and other social media networks you enjoy! Thanks!

All photos courtesy of Wikimedia unless otherwise indicated.

Happy 244th Independence Day America! Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks, still on but no in-person crowds. Enjoy it digitally or TV. How Will You Be Celebrating?

This blog has been updated from previous July 4th articles on AllThingsDigitalMarketing blog. Thank you for visiting, and please share with your social media and professional networks. Thanks.



Happy 244th Independence Day America! Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks, the nation’s largest Independence Day display, on the East River still on but no in-person crowds.  How Will You Be Celebrating?  

I just love the 2020 Google July 4th Doodle  it's an adorable interactive celebration (this link takes you to information and history behind the Google July 4th doodles. For the actual doodle on the google search engine, see below video on YouTube  and enjoy!

Last year, Google's doodle had an interactive July 4th interactive  baseball doodle! 

Here's Google's 2019 Fourth of July doodle - enjoy this interactive doodle which lets you play baseball game.


And here's one of my favorite quotes about America's Happy Independence Day, July 4th!

“You have to love a nation that celebrates its independence every July 4, not with a parade of guns, tanks, and soldiers who file by the White House in a show of strength and muscle, but with family picnics where kids throw Frisbees, the potato salad gets iffy, and the flies die from happiness. 

You may think you have overeaten, but it is patriotism.” ~ Erma Bombeck, American humorist, reknown suburban home life newapaper columnist chronicling ordinary life of a midwestern suburban housewife (mid-1960s - late 1990s); Publisher of 15 books, most bestsellers; On patriotism & Independence Day.

Video from lmy 7/4th 2018 fireworks show at Cross County Shopping Center, Yonkers, NY 

Visit this link for more information about
Macy’s  Fireworks - Macy's lit light up the Brooklyn Bridge with fireworks and will also light Smartphones for 1st time ever (2017)! Will you be syncing your smartphone this July 4th?
Visit this link  Celebrate 4th of July with Macys!  according t0 NYCGO.com 


Visit this link Best Places to Watch Fireworks in NYC 

Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks, the nation’s largest Independence Day display, returned to the East River a few years back and it's still here :)   

How Will You Be Celebrating??
For things to do in NYC on July 4th visit the following posts: 
Δ Where to Watch Macys July Fourth Fireworks as listed on www.macys.com/social/fireworks/
ΔFifth Annual Freedom Fest, July 4, 2019  (here's link from July 4, 2018)
Δ Fourth of July in New York City post by NYC TOURIST.
Δ Fourth of July at SkyRoom, Hells Kitchen, NYC
Δ Where to Eat and Drink on July Fourth in NYC

No plans yet? You can always play baseball with Google's 2019 4th interactive doodle!

Here's Google's 2019 Fourth of July doodle - enjoy this interactive doodle which lets you play baseball game.

Here's Google's wonderful doodle from 2018 Fourth of July! 

Happy Independence Day America! Wishing you and yours a happy, healthy and safe one.

However you spend it and whatever you do, please remember to not text while driving or while playing with fireworks. Hard to believe, I swear you can't make this up: On a July 4, 2015 morning on my way home from the Jersey Shore, a lady driver was in her car plucking hairs from her chin on Hope Road before the right turn onto the Garden State Parkway not only during the red light but continuing tweezing even when the light turned green. She must have a hell of a lot of hair on her chin.


Although President Adams's Independence Day prediction was July 2, the actual date the resolution of independence was approved in a closed session of Congress, from the getgo, Americans celebrated independence on July 4th, which is the date shown on the much-publicized Declaration of Independence. Independence Day, commonly known as the Fourth of July, is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, declaring independence from the Kingdom of Great Britain. This year marks the 242nd Anniversary!

Remarkable coincidence is that both John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, the only signers of the Declaration of Independence who later served as Presidents of the United States, died on the same day: July 4, 1826, which was the 50th anniversary of the Declaration.

Although not a signer of the Declaration of Independence, but another Founding Father who became a President, James Monroe, died on July 4, 1831, thus becoming the third president in a row who died on this memorable day. Calvin Coolidge, the 30th President, was born on July 4, 1872, and, so far, is the only President to have been born on Independence Day.

If you happen to be in New York City on July 4th, don't miss Macy's Fourth of July fireworks display on the East River which begins at 9:00pm. This year marks Macy's 41st year celebrating July 4th with fireworks in NYC. More information visit this link at Macy's 4th of July Fireworks!  from FoxNews.  

Photos courtesy of Wikimedia.org unless otherwise indicated.
This blog has been updated from a previous article. Thank you for visiting, and please share with your social media and professional networks. Thanks.

Happy 153rd Memorial Day America, Monday, May 25, 2020

This blog is an update from previous Memorial Day blog posting. Enjoy!

I call this photo "BIG RED FLOWER."  I took this photo at the Bronx River, 4/29/2014, originally thought it was a tulip.  But  but now I' believe it to be a POPPY symbolic of so many things, during Mrmorial Day, symbolizing our fallen heroes. 

Let this BIG RED FLOWER be whatever you want it to be, let it mean whatever you want it to mean. Whatever, I hope looking at it brings you some joy and smiles.


Happy 153rd  Memorial Day Weekend America! We need to keep on remembering and praying for all of our U.S. veterans who have sacrificeD their lives fighting for our great country, the U.S.A.

“We cherish too, the Poppy red
That grows on fields where valor led,
It seems to signal to the skies
That blood of heroes never dies."  ~~ Moina Michael (aka Poppy Lady)
U.S. professor and humanitarian who vowed to always wear a red poppy as a symbol of remembrance for those who served in the war. In 1915, inspired by the poem "In Flanders Fields," Moina Michael replied with her own poem, We Shall Keep the Faith, November 1918

In Flanders Fields by John McCrae 
In Flanders Fields the poppies blow,
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky,
The larks, still bravely singing, fly,
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the dead.
Short days ago,
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved and now we lie,
In Flanders Fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe
To you, from failing hands, we throw,
The torch, be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us, who die,
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow,
In Flanders Fields. 

We all seem to forget that we celebrate Memorial Day for the many service members who have lost their lives serving our country. Memorial Day is one of the special times of the year to honor loved ones who have passed and "In Flanders Fields" reminds us of those who have died protecting our country and freedom.

FASHION TRENDS ON MEMORIAL DAY 
 Memorial day marks the first day of the year for white-wear. The traditional fashion trend, “no white before Memorial Day or after Labor Day” gained popularity as the wealthy began wearing white in the summer. 

Light clothing was the symbol of leisure and black and navy were always the norm for the working class. This fad continued until years later as many began replacing white pants with the likes of bold solids and floral prints, pastel jungle prints, red jumpsuits, neon pink and cobalt sun dresses. 

I was fortunate to receive this 
article from one of my very 
dearest cousins about our late 
fathers and their 2 brothers 
(total 7 brothers, 1 sister).

All 4 brothers served during WWII. We were blessed as all 4 survived; However we always remember those soldiers who sacrificed their lives. 


FASHION FOR MEN TOO THIS MEMORIAL DAY 
 For all you men out there, check out GQ for ways to wear white on Memorial Day, Three Ways to Wear White on Memorial Day http://www.gq.com/style/blogs/the-gq-eye/2015/05/memorial-day-three-ways-to-wear-white.html 

What to do in NYC on Memorial Day weekend 
► Memorial Day weekend events in NYC, TimeOut http://www.timeout.com/newyork/things-to-do/memorial-day-weekend-events-in-nyc?package_page=36341
►Best beaches near NYC http://www.timeout.com/newyork/attractions/best-beaches?package_page=36341
► The best NYC parks, TimeOut http://www.timeout.com/newyork/parks?package_page=36341
► Memorial Day Parade, NYCCO.com
► New York Memorial Day Weekend Events https://www.eventbrite.com/d/ny--new-york/memorial-day-weekend/
► Best Things to do in NYC, NYCtrip.com
► How to Observe Memorial Day , http://www.usmemorialday.org/observe.htm 

HISTORY OF MEMORIAL DAY 
 The first Memorial Day celebration traces back to May 30, 1868. Memorial Day honors men and women who fought for our country so that we can all be free. 

Originally coined "Decoration Day," Memorial Day is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation's service. Memorial Day is less about barbecues and more about celebrating our nation’s veterans. Don't forget -- raise your flag half-staff -- honor more than one million Americans who gave their lives in service of this country for our freedom. 

Memorial Day was officially proclaimed on May 5, 1868 by General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, in his General Order No. 11, and was first observed on May 30, 1868, when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. The first state to officially recognize the holiday was New York in 1873. By 1890 it was recognized by all of the northern states.

The South refused to acknowledge the day, honoring their dead on separate days until after World War I (when the holiday changed from honoring just those who died fighting in the Civil War to honoring Americans who died fighting in any war). It is now celebrated in almost every State on the last Monday in May (passed by Congress with the National Holiday Act of 1971 (P.L. 90 - 363) to ensure a three day weekend for Federal holidays), though several southern states have an additional separate day for honoring the Confederate war dead: January 19 in Texas, April 26 in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Mississippi; May 10 in South Carolina; and June 3 (Jefferson Davis' birthday) in Louisiana and Tennessee. 
Memorial Day Fashion Trends 
► Enjoy the Long Weekend with Memorial Day Fashion Finds on Glamour.com http://www.glamour.com/fashion/blogs/dressed/2015/05/memorial-day-fashion-sales-2015
► What To Wear For Every Kind Of Memorial Day Weekend http://www.luckyshops.com/article/memorial-day-outfits
► Do You Have to Wait Until After Memorial Day to Wear White? | http://ksoo.com/do-you-have-to-wait-until-after-memorial-day-to-wear-white/?trackback=tsmclip
► Moina Bell Michael: the Idea for the Flanders Fields Memorial Poppy 
Other Resources 
►USmemorialday.org
►Memorial Day Calendar 
►Memorial Day History 
► How to Observe Memorial Day
► Buddy Poppy
► The Story Behind the Poppy
► InflandersFields-YouTube
► InflandersFields-YouTube 

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Wishing you and yours a wonderful Memorial Day weekend.

All photos courtesy of Wikimedia unless otherwise indicated.

To See or Not to See ... Punxsutawney Phil makes his 134th prediction on February 2, 2020 and we can all look forward to an early spring

This is a repost of earlier annual Groundhod Day posts.

To See or Not to See ... Punxsutawney Phil makes his 134th prediction on February 2, 2020 and we can all look forward to an early spring.  Staten Island Chuck G. Hogg also didn't see his shadow. In the meantime, check out this #Jeep ad with Bill Murray on SUPERBOWL LIV which falls right on Groundhog day 2020.

Happy Groundhog Day America!
"This is pitiful. A thousand people, freezing their butts off, waiting to worship a rat! What a hype. Well they used to mean something in this town, they used to pull the hog out and they used to eat it. You're hypocrites! All of ya! You got a problem with what I'm saying, Larry? Untie your tongue and you come out here and talk, huh? Am I upsetting you, Princess? You know you want a prediction about the weather, you're asking the wrong Phil. I'll give you a prediction. It's gonna be cold, it's gonna be gray, and it's gonna last you the rest of your life." ~~ Bill Murray , American actor and comedian, as quoted in the 1993 critically acclaimed film "Groundhog Day"

At 7:20 am today at Gobbler's Knob, Punxsutawney Phil is made his 134th prediction.  This year, he doesn't he see his shadow?  We also have New York City's, Staten Island's Chuck who will also make his prediction.

Punxsy Phil will predict what the next 6 weeks of weather will be on February 2nd. Celebrations begin on February 1st through the 3rd. 

Amazingly, for over two centuries, (1886 or earlier) crowds as large as 40,000 have gathered at Gobbler's Knob hill at Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania to celebrate. Other celebrations taking place in Pennsylvania include Quarryville in Lancaster County, the Anthracite Region of Schuylkill County, and Bucks County.

The largest Groundhog Day celebration is held in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. Groundhog Day received more mass attention after the release of the 1993 comedy film “Groundhog Day,” starring Bill Murray who plays Phil Connors, an egotistical Pittsburgh TV weatherman who, during a hated assignment covering the annual Groundhog Day event in Punxsutawney, dreams living February 2nd over and over while repeatedly indulging in hedonism and numerous suicide attempts.

Finally he wakes up and realizes his life matters and prioritizes and makes drastic changes and improvements. In 2006, the film was added to the United States National Film Registry as being deemed "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant."


YouTube Video: Groundhog Day - Phil (Bill Murray) Steals Phil (The Groundhog)

Many wonder just how scientific is Punxsy Phil's shadow. According to groundhogday.org, the furry fortune teller is accurate 75% to 90% of the time, while a Canadian study of 13 states has the success rate at 37% and the National Climatic Data Center (NCDC) has the overall prediction rate at 39% accurate (since 1987).

The Stormfax Weather Almanac reports Punxsutawney Phil has seen his shadow 100 times (as of last year 2014) which equates to 101 times this year (2015), no shadow 16 times with no record 9 times. Groundhog day in Staten Island is sponsored by Time Warner Cable and garnered with trumpets to wake up the little Staten Island's very own woodchuck, "Chuck," as the Staten Island Zoo opens its gates at 6:30 a.m. on Feb. 2.

Also South Carolina has Sir Walter Wally who makes his prediction 12 noon.

Staten Island Chuck, or Charles G. Hogg also didn't see his shadow.

What do you think? Do you believe in the science or spirit of Groundhog Day?


All photos courtesy of Wikimedia and screen shots taken from video and websites. All other photos will be credited as required.

Additional resources: 
♦http://www.justjared.com/2020/02/02/bill-murray-recreates-groundhog-day-in-jeeps-super-bowl-2020-ad-video/
♦ No shadow! https://www.msn.com/en-us/weather/topstories/groundhog-day-results-2020-no-shadow-phil-predicts-early-spring-is-coming/ar-BBZznmA?OCID=ansmsnnews11
♦ National Film Registry, FilmSite.org http://www.filmsite.org/filmreg.html
♦ Why Groundhog Day Could Lift the Loonie, CNBC http://www.cnbc.com/id/100416469
♦ Groundhog Day: 10 things you should know before going, PENN LIVE, http://blog.pennlive.com/go/2013/01/groundhog_day_10_things_to_kno.html
♦ Groundhog Day 2014: Groundhog Day 2014: Staten Island Chuck ready to make prediction at Staten Island Zoo http://www.silive.com/news/index.ssf/2014/01/staten_island_chuck_to_make_pr_2.html
♦ Groundhog Day http://www. groundhog.org/groundhog-day
♦ Groundhog Day: Planning your trip groundhog.org/planning-your-trip


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