Stories: Old West & Beyond 12.17.24
“A fool is known by his speech and a wise man by silence.” —Pythagoras
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Good Morning. It’s Tuesday, December 17, 2024. We’ll celebrate Christmas Eve a week from today, followed by Christmas Day. Enjoy the celebration and share it with family and friends. Merry Christmas!
History Flashback
____1843: Henry Cole, founder of London's V&A Museum, commissioned printing the 1st Christmas card.
____1903: A flying machine takes to the air for 12 seconds over Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina.
—FROM THE WILD WEST—
____FRONTIER CHRISTMAS FEATURED CELEBRATION AND SHARING
Wooden shoes overflowing with candy represented an important tradition in celebrating Christmas morning on the American Frontier. "A Frontier Christmas."
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____ST NICHOLAS AND SANTA CLAUSE: NOT MUCH IN COMMON
Those who often associate Santa Claus with St. Nicholas might be surprised to learn that several terrifying legends are tied to the 4th-century bishop.
—FROM HERE & THERE—
____THE DEPARTMENT STORE SANTA AND ITS ORIGIN
An East Coast retailer originated the tradition of the department store Santa in 1890. He dressed in a Santa costume to appeal to kids shopping with their parents.
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____IF YOU’RE STILL LOOKING FOR CHRISTMAS GIFTS, STAY AWAY FROM THESE
Just in time for the holidays, a video with advice on what Americans should avoid giving.
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____ WE ALL HAVE THAT SOMEONE TOUGH TO BUY FOR
Here are some unique gift ideas for those who are usually difficult to please—family members or friends.
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___50 GREATEST INVENTIONS OF 2004
Earlier this month, Popular Science magazine unveiled—as it has been doing for the past 27 years—the best ideas of this year.
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___IS IT REAL OR IS IT ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE?
Sophisticated technology makes it more challenging to determine the difference between AI and reality. Some experts say to watch for inconsistent or unrealistic lighting and shadows or unnatural patterns in textures like hair, skin, clothing, or background elements. See how you rank with this quiz.
—INTRIGUING FACTS—
___A US PRESIDENT ONCE ACHIEVED FAME AS AN ACCOMPLISHED WRESTLER
Before he became president, Abraham Lincoln was the wrestling champion of his county in Illinois. He only lost once in nearly 300 matches.
—REFLECTION—
“Just knowing you don’t have the answers is a recipe for humility, openness, acceptance, forgiveness, and an eagerness to learn—and those are all good things.” —Dick Van Dyke
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