Jun 142024
 

National Skunk Day is today! Ten species of skunks exist, and they all have stripes. In addition to the usual black and white skunks, other skunks are beige, brown, and gray. They are omnivorous, eating eggs, larvae, worms, berries, leaves, and many living life. They can sometimes find cat food in garages. They use their long front claws to grub for insects and other food. Idea: Children could find out if skunks have any predators.

Jun 142024
 
Flag of Falkland Islands

Flag of Falkland Islands

Falkland Islands celebrate Liberation Day, marking the day in 1982 when the British defeated Argentina in the Falkland Islands War. Composed of two main islands and over 700 smaller islands east of Argentina, the Falkland Islands are an Overseas Territory of the United Kingdom. Slightly over 3,000 people live in the Falklands, a region about the size of Connecticut. Stanley is the capital, and fishing is a major industry. Children can learn more at: Falkland Islands

Jun 142024
 

Hard hat diving suit was patented by Leonard Norcross of Dixfield, Maine, in 1834. The suit became the first practical diving suit. A tube connected the helmet/suit with surface air. Norcross was so proud of his invention he named his son Submarinus. Children can watch a video of hard hat diving at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CsCXlbURBU4.

Jun 142024
 

Alcock and Brown

John Alcock and Arthur Whitten Brown in 1919 became the first people to fly across the Atlantic Ocean nonstop. These two British pilots flew a modified World War I bomber from Newfoundland to Ireland. They earned the Daily Mail prize of £10,000 and a hero’s welcome. Older children can read more, including Alcock’s remembrances, at: Alcock and Brown.