In Government PSA History -
August 9, 1944, marks the official authorization and birthday of Smokey Bear as a symbol for wildfire prevention by the U.S. Forest Service and the Ad Council.
Campaign History & Evolution
First Poster: Painter Albert Staehle created the original poster. It showed a bear in jeans pouring water on a campfire.
Original Slogan: The first poster featured the text, "Care will prevent 9 out of 10 forest fires!"
Famous Slogan: The iconic line "Only YOU Can Prevent Forest Fires" was added in 1947.
Live Bear Inspiration: A real bear cub found in a New Mexico fire in 1950 became the living symbol of Smokey.
Updated Slogan: The tagline changed to "Only You Can Prevent Wildfires" in 2001 to include other natural areas
Congratulations to @Frenchi. Your question was chosen for tonight’s Ask Greg and the Panelists.
@frenchi Name something you wish had a remote control but doesn't?
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@Steve-Allen
What person did you realize that you totally misjudged after meeting them?
What is something stupid you did as a teenager that still scares you when you think about it?
Congratulations to @Junemarie53 and @NJFLA. Your questions were chosen for tonight’s Ask Greg and the Panelists.
@Junemarie53 What book were you forced to read for a class book report that you hated?
@NJFLA What’s something you grew up with that kids today have no idea about?
In Household Chore History:
On August 9, 1910, Alva J. Fisher received U.S. Patent No. 966,677 for the drive mechanism of the "Thor" electric washing machine.
Key Details of the Innovation
The Manufacturer: Fisher developed the machine for the Chicago-based Hurley Machine Company.
The Machine ("The Thor" ): Introduced commercially in 1908, the Thor was a drum-type machine featuring a galvanized tub powered by a small electric motor.
The Patent: While early prototypes existed, Fisher's 1910 patent targeted the self-reversing gearbox mechanism. This design rotated the internal drum in one direction and then reversed it, preventing clothes from packing into a tight, un-washable ball.
Safety and Evolution
Early versions of the Thor came with risks; the electric motor was exposed underneath the tub. Water routinely dripped onto the electrical components, causing short circuits, sparks, and shocks. Despite these issues, the invention revolutionized domestic life by significantly lowering the hours...
