UNICEF Day has been observed by Presidential Proclamation since 1967. Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF (United Nations Children’s Fund) began in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1949. The organization received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1965. UNICEF helps children in over 190 countries, and the organization worked to eradicate polio in over 120 countries. Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF has raised over $188 million since its inception. Children can learn more at: http://www.unicefusa.org/.
Nevada Flag
Nevada became the thirty-sixth state of the United States in 1864. Its name comes from a Spanish phrase meaning “snow-covered.” Its nicknames are the Sagebrush State and the Silver State. Carson City is the state capital. It was explored in 1776, but the first settlement was not built until 1849. In 1859 the Comstock Lode was discovered, and mining fever took over. In 1931 gambling became legal. Children could visit a website at: America’s Library. Idea: Students could pretend they were miners in old Nevada. What materials would they need to buy before they could amble on out to their stake?
Martin Luther in 1517 nailed his 95 Theses, also called the “Disputation on the Power and Efficacy of Indulgences,” to the church door in Wittenburg, Germany. He was objecting to some of the policies and activities of the Catholic Church. His actions and the actions of others started the Protestant Reformation. Older children could read a transcription in English of his statements at: Luther 95 Theses.
Harry Houdini
National Magic Day is celebrated today in memory of Harry Houdini who died this day in 1926. Children could learn more about Houdini at: America’s Library.
Mount Rushmore
Mount Rushmore was completed in 1941. The project, depicting likenesses of George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Thomas Jefferson, and Theodore Roosevelt, began on October 3, 1927. Nearly three million people visit it each year. Children could visit the park’s website at: http://www.nps.gov/moru/.
Earl Lloyd in 1950 became the first African American to play for the NBA. He played for the Washington Capitols at a game held in Rochester, New York. He went on to play 560 games in nine seasons. He then became the first African American assistant basketball coach and was head coach for the Detroit Pistons. Children could learn more at: Earl Lloyd.