July 4th 245 Years Later: 10 Interesting Facts

The vote for independence actually occurred on July 2, 1776, but it wasn't dated and approved until July 4th, and it wasn't signed by members of the Second Continental Congress until August 2nd.

During the summer of 1776 some colonists held mock funerals for King George III to celebrate the nation's new freedom. There were also riots against the King in Philadelphia and Manhattan.

The first fireworks displays associated with the 4th of July happened in Philadelphia and Boston in 1777.

In 1778 George Washington is rumored to have given his soldiers double rations of rum to celebrate.

Three US Presidents, all Founding Fathers, died on the 4th of July: John Adams and Thomas Jefferson both died on the same day within 5 hours of each other on July 4, 1826. James Monroe died on July 4, 1831.

Frederick Douglass wrote that Independence Day was "a day that reveals to him, more than all other days in the year, the gross injustice and cruelty to which he is the constant victim" on July 5, 1852. The slaves were not freed until 1865, which gave rise to the holiday Juneteenth. 

It wasn't common to celebrate the 4th of July until after the War of 1812 and it wasn't an official holiday until 1870. The White House didn't celebrate the 4th of July until 1801.

Wearing American flag apparel violates a set of guidelines called the US Flag code, which was established in 1942 to address the fear of nationalism displayed by the Nazis during WWII. It states: "The flag should never be used as wearing apparel, bedding, or drapery." This code, however, is unenforceable, because it doesn't include any penalties for noncompliance.

The highest beer sales of any US federal holiday occur on the 4th of July. It is also estimated that Americans eat 150 million hot dogs each 4th July.

On July 4, 1976 the bicentennial was celebrated to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.  

 

Top Ten: Mark's Favorite Radio Western/Adventure Shows

1.  The Lone Ranger (WXYZ; WGN; WOR; WLW; Mutual, January 31, 1933-February 10, 1939; Mutual, February 13, 1939-May 1, 1942; Blue Network/ABC, May 4, 1942-May 25, 1956)

2.  The General Mills Radio Adventure Theater/The CBS Radio Adventure Theater (CBS, February 5, 1977-January 29, 1978)

3.  Tales of the Texas Rangers (NBC, July 8, 1950-September 14, 1952)

4.  Have Gun--Will Travel (CBS, November 23, 1958-November 27, 1960)

5.  Frontier Gentleman (CBS, February 2-November 16, 1958)

6.  Fort Laramie (CBS, January 22-October 28, 1956)

7.  The Roy Rogers Show (Mutual, November 21, 1944-May 15, 1945; NBC, October 5, 1946-March 29, 1947; Mutual, August 29, 1948-May 13,1951; NBC, October 5, 1951-July 21, 1955)

8.  Gene Autry's Melody Ranch (CBS, January 7, 1940-August 1, 1943; CBS, September 23, 1945-May 13, 1956)

9.  Rocky Jordan (CBS, October 31, 1948-September 10, 1950; CBS, June 27-August 22, 1951)

10.  Challenge of the Yukon (Sergeant Preston of the Yukon) WXYZ, February 3, 1938-May 28, 1947; ABC, June 12, 1947-December 30, 1949; Mutual, January 2, 1950-June 9, 1955)

Our Favorite Father Figures from TV and Film

Ward Cleaver (Leave It to Beaver)

Danny Tanner (Full House and Fuller House)

Coach Eric Taylor (Friday Night Lights)

Uncle Ben (Spiderman)

Steve Douglas (My Three Sons)

Jim Anderson (Father Knows Best)

Mike Brady (The Brady Bunch)

Atticus Finch (To Kill a Mockingbird)

Tim Taylor (Home Improvement)

Steve Martin (Cheaper by the Dozen, Parenthood, Father of the Bride)

Uncle Bill Davis (Family Affair)

Dre Johnson (Blackish)

Mufasa (The Lion King)

Herman Munster (The Munsters)

Gomez Addams (The Addams Family)

Top Ten: Mark's Favorite Radio Audience Participation Shows

1.  Art Linkletter's House Party (CBS, January 15,1945-January 10,1947; CBS, December 1,1947-December 31,1948; ABC, January 3-July 1,1949; ABC, September 19-December 30,1949;CBS, January 2, 1950-October 13,1967)

2.  You Bet Your Life (ABC, October 27,1947-May 25 1949; CBS, October 5, 1949-June 28,1950; NBC, October 4,1950-September 19,1956)

3.  Truth or Consequences (CBS, March 23-July 27,1940; NBC, August 17,1940-June 24,1950; CBS, September 5,1950-May29,1951; NBC, June 17-September 30,1952; NBC, September 18,1952-April 15,1954; NBC, October 26,1955-September 12,1956)

4.  Queen for a Day (Mutual, April 30,1945-June 10,1957)

5.  The Quiz Kids (NBC, June 28-August 30,1940; Blue Network/ABC, September 4,1940-September 22,1946; NBC, September 29,1946-September 23,1951; CBS, September 14,1952-July 5,1953)

6.  Break the Bank ( Mutual, October 20,1945-April 13,1946; July 5,1946-September 23,1949; NBC, September 25,1950-September 21,1951; ABC, September 24,1951-March 27,1953; NBC, September 27,1953-July 15,1955)

7.  Arthur Godfrey's Talent Scouts (CBS, July 2,1946-October 1,1956)

8.  Strike It Rich (CBS, June 29,1947-April 30,1950; NBC, May 1,1950-December 27,1957)

9.  Can You Top This? (Mutual, December 9,1940-September 19,1945; NBC, October 3,1942-September 25,1948; Mutual, September 29, 1948-May 24,1950; ABC, September 23,1950-June 26,1951; NBC, October 5, 1953-March 26,1954; NBC, April 2-July 9,1954)

10.  Stop the Music (ABC, March 21,1948-August 10,1952; CBS, August 17,1954-February 15, 1955)

Jen’s Art Adventure: Becoming a Collage Artist Full Time

Jennifer DeSantis is a local artist specializing in collage. Until recently she was the Gallery Manager and jack of all trades for our very own OT Circus! A few months ago, Jenn decided to focus on her art full time. Even though we are sad to see her go, we are excited for her new opportunity. Jenn has hit the ground ground running with several shows in the first two weeks, including a successful solo show at downtown sandwich shop, Tuerta, which is up until the end of the month, so check it out if you get the chance. She also set up a studio at the Ruppe Building in Barelas, open from 4-7pm Wednesdays through Fridays, which includes the Secret Gallery, where you can also see one of her pieces. We asked Jenn some questions about her adventures, new and old.

How did you become an artist? I think I was born an artist, and think we all are.

When did you become an artist? I decided to pursue art as a career/lifestyle in 2010. 

What kind of art did you start with? I always actually loved to draw and paint as a child. When I was little, I wanted to “grow up” to be an author and illustrator. I think I made my first collage when I was 13 or 14. 

What influenced your art? My art is a form of self-therapy for me. It helps me deal with trauma and moods, as I am able to express things I am thinking and feeling in a healthy way. The major influence was my need for a healthy outlet. 

Why collage? I love the creation out of destruction aspect of collage. Taking something that exists and morphing it into something different/more meaningful/more modern. Also, collage is an extremely accessible artform. There are ALWAYS materials just “laying around”: )
When did you start using collage? So, I had an urge to make art, and at the time, there was an old TIME magazine and some cardboard just laying around, where I was living, and that was what really started it. This was in 2010. The urge was strong. I had dabbled before, but not seriously. 

How did you come up with the visual DJ idea?Actually, that was fairly recent. Someone asked me at a pop up about 2 years ago, what collage is… And the thing that popped into my head was “like a DJ remixes sounds, I remix imagery and words visually, so I guess you could call me a “visual DJ.”

What are some of the main collage elements that you work with? I love working with vintage materials. Old books and magazines that have been forgotten/discarded. And CATS!

When did you decide to become a full time artist? Very recently, in February of 2021. 

How do you come up with your titles? Sometimes they come to me as I am creating the piece, but often I look at it when completed and then I think of a title. The titles reflect a narrative either that is personal often, but sometimes, I “put myself in the archetype/character/focal point’s shoes” and then the title will come from that perspective. Sometimes it is the words that I have implemented on the piece itself that become the title. 

How many pieces have you done/sold? Thousands made, hundreds – maybe even thousands have sold – over just about 11 years.

How many do you make a month? That really depends on a lot of factors. I try to complete about 5-10 new originals at least each month. 

When did you start using different shapes? Also, quite recently. This year, 2021.

Where are you from? I was born and raised in Waterbury Connecticut. 

What places have you lived? I moved from Connecticut to Georgia in 1996, and lived there until 2016, when my husband and I moved here, to Albuquerque NM. On the way from Georgia to New Mexico, we lived in Grants Pass Oregon for 6 weeks. 

Did you make/sell art there? I did.

When did you move to Albuquerque? November 2016 – Thanksgiving weekend! 

How do you like Abq? I love it! Moving here has opened my eyes to tons of awesome and also difficult things, and I have grown much, and learned a lot about myself. It’s amazing for art, and supportive of artist’s individual expression! 

How did you start working with OT Circus? I participated in an art show at OT Circus in 2017. About a month later, Victoria asked if I could help her with the gallery. 

How long? I was working at OT Circus for a little over 4 years. 

What do you like to do when you’re not creating art? I like to cook, read, watch TV, and ride my exercise bike. I like to also socialize and spend time with my friends. 

Do you have any upcoming shows? Yes! I am at El Vado on Friday 6/18 from 5-8, and at Ancora Bakery and Café on 6/25 from 5-8. 

How did your opening go on Friday? It went well.

When are your open studio hours? Presently, I don’t have regular hours, but I am happy to meet people here to see the space until I sort that out. 

Where can people buy your art?https://www.metaphysicalartgallery.com/works-by-lady-jennd AND https://society6.com/ladyjennd You can also connect with me personally to procure work via my FB and Instagram: @ladyjennd.

What do your pieces go for? It really depends on the size. Anywhere from $40 - $1000 – lots of options ;) 

We will miss seeing Jenn at the Circus on a regular basis, but we are looking forward to many visits and wish her well as she sets off on this new adventure!

 

Top Ten: Mark’s Favorite Radio Variety Shows

1.  Arthur Godfrey Time (CBS, April 30, 1945-April 30, 1972)

2.  The Edgar Bergen/Charlie McCarthy Show (The Chase and Sanborn Hour, The Charlie McCarthy Show, The Edgar Bergen Show, The New Edgar Bergen Hour) (NBC, May 9, 1937-December 26, 1948; CBS, October 2, 1949-July 1, 1956)

3.  Command Performance (Armed Radio Service, March 1, 1942-December 20, 1949)

4.  The Bing Crosby Show (Fifteen Minutes with Bing Crosby, The Cremo Singer, The Music That Satisfies, The Woodbury Radio Program, The Kraft Music Hall, Philco Radio Time, The Bing Crosby Chesterfield Show, The General Electric Show) (CBS, September 2, 1931-February 27, 1932; March 8-July 20, 1932; CBS, January 4-April 15, 1933; CBS, October 16, 1933-June 11, 1935; NBC, January 2, 1936-May 9, 1946; ABC, October 16, 1946-June 1, 1949; CBS, September 21, 1949-June 25, 1952; CBS, October 9, 1952-May 30, 1954; CBS, November 22, 1954-December 28, 1956)

5.  The Frank Sinatra Show (Songs by Sinatra, Light-Up Time, Meet Frank Sinatra) CBS, October 27, 1942-June 4, 1947; NBC, September 5, 1949-June 2, 1950-July 22, 1951; NBC, November 10,1953-July 15, 1955)

6.  The Kraft Music Hall (NBC, June 26, 1933-September 22, 1949)

7.  Your Hit Parade (NBC, April 20, 1935-December 1, 1937; CBS, May 2, 1936-April 19, 1947; NBC. April 26,1947-January 16,1953)

8.  The Judy Canova Show (CBS, July 6, 1943-June 27, 1944; NBC, January 13, 1945-May 28, 1953)

9.  The Fred Allen Show (The Linit Bath Club Revue, The Salad Bowl Revue, The Sal Hepatica Revue, Hour of Smiles, Town Hall Tonight, The Texaco Star Theater) CBS, October 23, 1932-April 16, 1933; NBC, August 4-December 1, 1933; NBC, January 3, 1934-, June 26, 1940; CBS, October 2, 1940-June 25, 1944; NBC, October 7, 1945-December 28, 1947; NBC, January 4, 1948-June 26, 1949)

10.  The Breakfast Club (Blue Network/ABC, June 23, 1933-December 27, 1968)

Reintroduction to Society: Some Tips

• Ease into it: If you are starting to go back to work, school or a day program, maybe start with just a few days a week or a shorter day away from home to pace yourself. It can be a little tiring and overwhelming to jump right back in full time. If it’s an option, you can still meet virtually part time. As for your social life, try picking just one or two events per week and see how you feel. 
• Be patient and kind with others and yourself. We’re all a little rusty with our social skills. So if someone says something awkward, or even rude, try to remember that we’re all in this together. Show some compassion, or at the very least, just ignore it. We’re not saying to let it go if someone is mean or inappropriate, but just to remember that we’re all out of practice.
• Some people might want to continue staying home. Maybe you’re not ready, maybe you can’t take the vaccine due to a medical condition, maybe you just don’t feel safe yet or maybe you’re caring for somebody else. Depending on your circumstances, it might make sense to stay home for a few more months. If you’re looking for a new job, for example, your state may allow you to stay on unemployment a little longer, or may allow you to be a little more selective in your job search, until you find a good fit.
• Keep on maskin’. How long you decide to wear your mask is up to you! Of course, if someone asks or requires you to wear a mask in their space, you should follow their guidance or go elsewhere if you don’t want to comply. It’s important to make sure you feel safe, and also that others feel safe (within reason, of course!). Some people just want to take extra precautions, and that’s okay. You might even consider wearing a mask in the future if you are feeling unwell in order to protect others from illnesses like the flu or the common cold.

Top Ten: Mark’s Favorite Radio Dramas

1. The Cavalcade of America (CBS, October 9, 1935 - May 29, 1939; NBC, January 2, 1940 -March 31, 1953)
2.  You Are There (CBS Is There) (CBS, July 7, 1947 - March 19, 1950)
3.  The Voyage of the Scarlet Queen (Mutual, July 3, 1947 - February 14, 1948)
4.  Dr. Christian (CBS, November 7, 1937 - January 6, 1954)
5.  The Story of Dr. Kildare (Syndicated, 1949 - 1958)
6.  Grand Central Station (Blue Network, October 8,1937 - April 15, 1938; April 24, 1938 - October 18, 1940; Blue Network, November 12, 1940 - July 1,1941; CBS, July 9 - October 1, 1941; NBC, October 10, 1941 - July 3, 1942; CBS, March 4, 1944 - September 5,1953; ABC, January 18 - April 2, 1954)
7.  Big Town (CBS, October 19, 1937 - July 2, 1942; CBS, October 5, 1943 - June 22, 1948; NBC, September 14, 1948 - December 25, 1951; CBS, December 12, 1951 - June 25,1952)
8.  Bold Venture (Syndicated 1951-1952)
9.  The First Nighter Program (Blue Network, November 27, 1930 - September 29, 1933; NBC, October 6, 1933-February 12, 1937; CBS, February 19 - December 21, 1937; NBC, January 7 - August 26, 1938; CBS, September 2,1938 - May 29, 1942; Mutual, October 4, 1942 - October 25, 1944; CBS, October 4, 1947 - October 20, 1949; NBC, April 27, 1952 - September 27, 1953)
10.  Nightbeat (NBC, February 6, 1950-September 25, 1952)

Top Ten: Mark’s Favorite Radio Sitcoms

1. The Jack Benny Program (The Canada Dry Program, The Chevrolet Program, The General Tire Show, The Jello Program, The Grape Nuts and Grape Nuts Flakes Program, The Lucky Strike Program, The Best of Benny) (Blue Network,  May 2 - October 26, 1932; CBS, October 30, 1932 - January 26, 1933; NBC, March 17, 1933 - April 1, 1934; NBC, April 6 - September 28, 1934; NBC, October 14, 1934 - May 31, 1942; NBC, October 4, 1942 - June 4, 1944; NBC, October 1, 1944 - December 26, 1948; CBS, January 2, 1949 - May 22, 1955; CBS, October 28, 1956 - June 22, 1958)

2.  My Friend Irma (CBS, April 11, 1947 - August 23, 1954)

3.  Life with Luigi (CBS, September 21, 1948 - March 3, 1953)

4.  Fibber McGee and Molly (NBC, April 16, 1935 - March 23, 1956)

5.  The Great Gildersleeve (NBC, August 31, 1941 - March 21, 1957)

6.  Meet Millie (CBS, July 2, 1951 - September 23, 1954)

7.  My Favorite Husband (CBS, July 23, 1948 - March 31, 1951)

8. Our Miss Brooks (CBS, July 19, 1948 - June 30, 1957)

9.  The Halls of Ivy (NBC, January 6, 1950 - June 25, 1952)

10.  The Phil Harris/Alice Faye Show (The Fitch Bandwagon) NBC, September 29, 1946 - June 18, 1954)