Ashley and Brad Show

News; birthdays/events; list of funny things you believed as a child; word of the day. News; do comfy seats make you stay longer at coffee shops? will it help get people out more?; game: Mind the gap 1; game: Mind the gap 2. News; based on the month you were born...a list of our favorite subjects by birth month; non traditional orchestras; world's funniest city (and true) names. News; Girl Scout cookies are expanding their cookie lineup; game: songs with rock and roll in the title; goodbye/fun facts....national cheese toast day....not to be confused with a grilled cheese sandwich---a grilled cheese is made on the stovetop by grilling it in a pan–leaving the cheese gooey. Cheese Toast is made by broiling the open-face bread on a pan in the oven, which leaves the cheese golden and delicious. Cheese toast is possibly the easiest thing that a person can make at home in their own kitchen. This modern food delight was created by Del Johnson in 1958 when he opened his first Sizzler restaurant. It became an instant success and a fan favorite but The Welsh rarebit or Welsh rabbit, a form of cheese toast, first appears as a dish in 1725 which uses a bechamel sauce and mustard..but it can be as simple as a piece of bread with sliced american cheese.

News; birthdays/events; funny work nicknames (list) have you ever earned a funny nickname?; word of the day. News; game: quiz; game: feud; would you participate in an "ugly pants exchange"? (if you've ever seen impractical jokers..it's kind of like that) News; when was the last time you shared a secret about yourself?; how do you get free time from your kids?; have you ever had a bill so high you thought something was leaking? News; listeners share their best tips for these categories (list); game: calendar trivia; goodbye/fun facts....national gobstopper day...The term 'gobstopper' derives from 'gob,' which is slang in the United Kingdom and Ireland for the mouth. The sweet was a favorite among British schoolboys in the first half of the 20th century. Gobstoppers are made by slowly depositing layers onto a core (such as a pressed ball of sugar or a gumball); it takes several weeks to manufacture, as the process of adding liquid sugar is repeated a lot of times. By the 1700s, machinery was being introduced in larger-scale confectionery companies to create more interesting and unique sweets, such as the gobstopper....and then Roald Dahl the British novelist best known for his childrens books, including 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,' introduced the fantastical concept of the 'Everlasting Gobstopper.' His imaginative storytelling brought the idea of a multi-layered, never-ending candy to life, inspiring the real-world confection. 

News; birthdays/events; why do Italian police have Lamborghinis? should the USA have them too?; word of the day. News; a new celebrity list...who are the top contenders this year? who would you invite to your celebrity dinner?; how often are your kids teaching you about tech?; game: songs with red, white, or blue in the title. News; if your kids sign up for an extra ciricular activity...do you make them finish it even if they hate it?; are you a 'horn honker'?; game: songs with free or freedom in the title. News; how many 'cheat days' do you give yourself in any given week?; game: word ladder; goodbye/fun facts....Patriot Day calls for solemn remembrance of the nearly 2,977 lives lost in the 2001 terror attacks. We honor victims, survivors, and the brave first responders who exemplified heroism. It was a terrifying day when four planes were hijacked on September 11, 2001...half of Gen Z and all of Gen Alpha weren't even born yet...so they don't know life before 9/11. There were always 6 moments of silence...until this year when a 7th was added. After all the names have been read another moment will occur to honor those who have died post 9/11 from illness and injury due to the toxic air exposure. There are now dozens and dozen of 9/11 documentaries, films, short specials and multi part TV specials to watch across every streamer. 

News; birthdays/events; new A.I. toothbrush; word of the day. News; TJ Maxx/big box store Ashley SFA; game: Battle of the sexes 1; game: Battle of the sexes 2. News; would you buy the house you're living in again if you have had the chance to re-buy it?; game: TV show character catchphrases; how much is your average Amazon purchase? News; how often during the day do you talk to your cat/dog?; how to avoid A.I. surveillance...would you do it?; goodbye/fun facts....national swap ideas day...All wonderful inventions and creations happen from an idea...from Ben Franklin wondering what would happen if he flew a kite in a lightning storm to the Wright brothers who were certain that people should be able to fly. Ever since the dawn of time, humans have shared ideas. That's how great things get done. The best ideas are products of several minds coming together to do something...hence the saying two heads are better than one or even more if you brainstorm with several people! Being part of a think tank can really help propel an idea into an invention!

News; birthdays/events; gate side check...would you join TSA precheck for this benefit?; word of the day. News; game: Adam Sandler trivia; QB's and coaches make a ton of money annually...but what about the rest of the staff...would you stay at a 'fun' job that paid like crap?; fun but solid/good 'travel rules'. News; game: what year was it?; do you answer the doorbell or check the camera first?; can/should pro players come back to play in college if they re-enroll in school? News; game: 1980's song lyrics; when it comes to a big purchase (appliances, car, furniture) how long do you spend 'researching'...when is too much---too much?; goodbye/fun facts....The Teddy Bear was created to commemorate President Theodore Roosevelt an avid hunter who went on a bear hunting trip. Unlike some of the other hunters in the party, Roosevelt had not been able to shoot a single bear so his aides trapped and tied a black bear to a willow tree, however, Roosevelt declined to shoot the bear because he thought it was highly unsportsmanlike. A political cartoonist, saw the report and chose to parody the president's unwillingness to shoot the bear in a funny manner...then a local candy shop owner made a stuffed bear (named Teddy's Bear) and the trend took off. 

News; birthdays/events; how hard is it to come back to work after a 3 day weekend...what if you always had 3 day weekends?; word of the day. News; was there really one second left in the clock? (Michigan game); game: Star Trek trivia; it's fun to do the wave at stadiums...then it went to beach balls...now they have the inflatable hot dog and bun. News; we talked the other day about people who smell on airplanes...but what if a co-worker smelled? game: NFL mascot names; funny ways people broke a tooth. News; game: I should have known that....yes or no?; what's a 'reverse bucket list' and do you want one?; goodbye/fun facts....National Ampersand Day --the fascinating logogram that has represented the word 'and' for centuries. The ampersand's origins can be traced back to the Latin word 'et,' which means 'and.' The letters 'E' and 'T' in this word were occasionally put together to form a ligature...an early example has been discovered as graffiti on a wall in Pompeii, preserved by the Vesuvius eruption in 79 A.D. Since that time---Writers and designers see it as a creative way to add style and elegance to their work. Think of all the companies and products that use the ampersand in their logo...just to name a few: Ben & Jerry's, M&M's, Barnes & Noble, Dolce & Gabana....

News; birthdays/events; how young is too young to play professional sports...what advice would you give to a young athlete?; word of the day. News; game: quiz; game: feud; what useless button/feature do you have in your car (funny list) News; things we won't miss about Summer (as we get ready for Fall); at what age do you switch from presents to gift cards for the recipient?; how often do you wash or clean your car? News; is today the 'last of the grilling' until next Summer?; game: calendar trivia; goodbye/fun facts....National Acorn Squash Day as a time Autumn flavors are found in delightful dishes in kitchens across the country. Acorn squash is also known as pepper squash. Even though it is considered a Winter squash, acorn squash belongs to the same species as all summer squashes, including zucchini and yellow crookneck squash. Acorn squash originated in North America when Native Americans were growing and eating the squashes for nourishment when European colonizers arrived. Because of its long-lasted durability, it can last months without rotting and it can be cooked in various ways: steamed, sauteed, baked, or microwaved. Many recipes include spices such as nutmeg, cinnamon, coriander, and cardamom to bring out the slightly sweet yet nutty flavor of this vegetable which also offers a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. It also has some vitamin C and B, magnesium, and manganese.

News; birthdays/events; NBC is celebrating 100 years of broadcasting sports...what are some of your favorite sports calls?; word of the day. News; NFL kicks off on Wednesday...College football is already underway--are you a tailgater?; game: acroynm game; would you rather live without a dishwasher or a clothes dryer? News; how can you enjoy the beauty of fall from your couch?; game: is Ashley as smart as a 5th grader; fantasy football punishments for last place. News; best way to quit a job....have you ever left a job in a blaze of fury?; game: everybody knows; goodbye/fun facts....National Macadamia Nut Day-- the luxurious, buttery macadamia nut that originated in Australia..these nuts were named after Scottish-Australian chemist John Macadam. In 1882, macadamia trees were planted in Hawaii to shield sugar cane from the wind, but the trees weren't fully cultivated until 1888. The nuts from the trees were an instant hit among the locals, leading to the establishment of the nut industry. These versatile nuts are prized for their rich flavor and nutritional benefits. Bake with them, sprinkle them on salads, or enjoy them roasted as a healthy snack.

News; birthdays/events; when it comes to appliances...does it all have to match?; word of the day. News; game: Movie password; do you coddle your kids?; when an environment is loud our someone has an accent...do you just pretend to have a conversation? News; game: Outburst; what ingredient can ruin a sandwich for you?; are you part of any clubs? what if you're too tired to join any clubs? News; game: WWTBAM part 1; game: WWTBAM part 2; goodbye/fun facts....Skyscraper Day invites us to look up and appreciate the towering architectural marvels that define our urban landscapes. These feats of engineering reshape cities, providing homes and offices high above the streets. There are generally 2 men that are considered the 'Father of the American Skyscraper,' one is William Le Baron Jenney was an American architect and engineer. He designed the Home Insurance Building in Chicago, completed in 1885, which is widely considered the world's first skyscraper due to its innovative steel-frame construction. At ten stories, which by today's standards hardly seems high at all...but for that time it was huge. The other is Louis H. Sullivan...he invented the steel frame and popularized the famous design rule that a building's shape should reflect its inner purpose and structure. In fact, he was Frank Lloyd Wright's mentor. Burj Khalifa is currently the tallest building in the world at 2,722 feet.

News; birthdays/events; if you had to pick between these options for your only hydrations...which one would you pick?; word of the day. News; when was the last time you had a hearing test?; game: backwards song game; do you have a favorite pasta? can the 'wrong' pasta ruin a meal for you? News; things that smell good to most people but you can't stand (Ashley can't stand the smell of roses); game: 3 word celebrity descriptions; can you diagnose a problem with your car by the noise it's making? News; when you've hear a story a million times (friend, co-worker, spouse, etc)...do you still feign interest?; game: movies trivia; goodbye/fun facts....Spalding Baseball Day celebrates the enduring legacy of Albert Goodwill Spalding--aka A.G. spalding--a pivotal figure in baseball history. Spalding was an American baseball icon. He began his career as a pitcher for the Boston Red Stockings. After playing in major league baseball from 1871–1878, Spalding continued on not only as a manager and an executive, but he also wrote the first official set of rules for the game. But the reason that most people may find the Spalding name familiar is because of the sporting goods company he started with his brothers. A.G. was one of the first to set the trend of wearing a baseball glove. So it made sense that his company manufactured equipment for the game of baseball. 

News; birthdays/events; a new kind of spa treatment; word of the day. News; game: songs from School of Rock movie; body cheat codes; things we're looking forward to in September. News; game: misheard lyrics; does it matter if it's a phone tree, a robot, or AI when it comes to customer support?; new way to get medical care to people who live in rural areas. News; game: general trivia; how closely do you pay attention to things your spouse does? (funny story); goodbye/fun facts....National Burnt Ends Day...once considered trimmings or left-overs, burnt ends come from the point of a brisket. However, these days burnt ends take center stage in a BBQ basket of smoky flavor and goodness. The name comes from the longer cooking time required for tender brisket. As a result, these thinner points become a little charred and tougher than the rest of the meat. Even if you make your own, you can also get them in store (big box stores sell them) or try every bbq place in town!

News; birthdays/events; do you leave messes at home or work in the hopes that someone else will clean it?; word of the day. News; game: quiz; game: feud; feel good story of the day...sue the construction kitty. News; do you operate on 'auto-pilot'? do you even notice?; if you spend time meal planning/packing lunches and the food comes back uneaten...do you change your meal plan?; do you consider your pet part of the family? would you cancel plans to stay home with your dog/cat? News; cash is no longer king; game: calendar trivia; goodbye/fun facts....National Diatomaceous Earth Day celebrates one of nature's quiet wonders—diatomaceous earth. This soft, chalky powder comes from ancient algae-like creatures called diatoms. Over time, their fossilized shells built up into thick layers beneath lakes and oceans. Today, this earthy dust helps with everything from keeping bugs out of gardens to filtering pool water to to clean up spills. Farmers use it to protect stored grains. Pet owners trust it to keep fleas at bay. Food companies rely on it to purify ingredients....some people even use it as toothpaste...just be sure it's labeled as food grade!

News; birthdays/events; what makes a dive bar/restaurant a dive for you?; word of the day. News; would you pay for 'preferred parking' at the mall, the grocery store, church, etc?; game: best selling songs of 1976; Dolly Parton...some of her best quotes/one liners. News; do you like 'speaker series' or going to see a speaker?; game: TV catchphrases; what's your personal walk of shame? News; wishful inventions...what would you add to this list?; game: password; goodbye/fun facts....National Cherry Turnover Day...Turnovers actually date back to ancient times and used to be called "portable pies". Turnover is basically a pastry that is made by placing a filling (in today's case it's cherry) inside of a piece of dough. You then fold the dough over and seal it so that the filling does not leak out. Once you have done this, you can either deep fry or bake the turnover, resulting in a deliciously flaky and golden crust. Cherries themselves offer a number of nutritional benefits---the antioxidants in this red fruit protect cells from damage. And cherries pack an anti-inflammatory punch, they may help reduce the risk of heart disease, too. Of course if cherries aren't your thing...you can make turnover with any filling you like.

News; birthdays/events; "skillcations" are the newest trend; word of the day. News; game: guess that celebrity autobiographies; besides their name and basic commands...what words/phrases does your dog truly understand?; the average person needs this many hours of solitude a month...are you above or below this number? News; game: NFL trivia; besides more legroom...what else can airlines do to make flights more comfortable? do you stash snacks at your desk at work? maybe you should switch where you put them! News; game: song lyrics; when you loan your children money (even younger children) do you expect it back? do you have them sign something?; goodbye/fun facts....national Pots De Creme day--it's a 17th century french custard was originally used for filling crusts like in a pie. However, as time passed, this dessert was made into smaller portions and the crust was eliminated from preparation. Since the French didn't have a word for custard, they christened it 'Pots de Creme' as it signifies the little porcelain pots they are baked in. The tiny pots that stand only about three inches tall and because the cup is so small, a demitasse spoon is used to eat them. while chocolate and vanilla are common flavors, don't hesitate to explore other flavorings like espresso or zesty orange...and don't forget the whipped cream dollup!

News; birthdays/events; why do ampitheaters have such long names now?; word of the day. News; traits you get from your mom vs your dad; old timey dinner table etiquette (funny list); game: prison commissary price is right. News; yesterday was 'secondhand clothes' day....guess what else is great secondhand?; what's Americas favorite sandwich?; game: 1975 songs. News; game: price is right trivia; food and drink expo fair treats; goodbye/fun facts....national toilet paper day...believe it or not, a more recent invention!! Before the advent of toilet paper, from at least 79 A.D. the Romans cleaned themselves with a type of sponge they attached to a stick and they would simply rinse it off and leave it for the next person. It wasn't until 1857 that toilet paper began being sold in the United States of America. The first toilet paper was loose flat sheets of paper. Currently, in many countries across the world, especially older cultures where their plumbing infrastructures are not modern, the toilet paper is not flushed down the toilet..their bathrooms often have special receptacles. Since industry is always trying "new and improved" you can get Bamboo Toilet Paper--because bamboo grows so quickly, it is a sustainable, renewable and eco-friendly and reduces the use of the planet's trees and Recycled Fiber Toilet Paper. One company makes their recycled toilet paper completely from recycled office paper–and they offer a subscription service so families never have to worry about buying toilet paper at the store again!

News; birthdays/events; what diy sound would you put in a tennis ball? (new viral video); word of the day. News; if used fryer oil can be used to power cars...what else can it power?; game: 80's 90's trivia; how are you going to get all those chores finished around your house? host an admin night. News; should the CEO and other high level occupations have to work 'real jobs' or undercover boss type events? what if you found out all of your higher ups never held a working class job?; game: musical jeopardy; list: top 10 instructional videos that are watched/searched on google and youtube. News; have you ever lost something that you were holding?; game: think n sync; goodbye/fun facts....National Secondhand Wardrobe Day focuses on promoting sustainable practices rather than commercial sales...secondhand shopping offers numerous benefits. Beginning with the savings, for a fraction of the price of retail, thrifty shoppers fill their wardrobe while pocketing the savings. There are many national stores that we're all familiar with like the Salvation Army and Habitat For Humanity restore--and dozen of regional stores too...plus Online platforms such as ThredUp and Poshmark might feature curated collections or offer special shipping deals to encourage buying and selling pre-owned items. You will also find that, as compared to fast fashion, the quality and longevity of secondhand clothing are mostly better....and if you've never understood the impact of fast fashion...watch the documentary Buy Now: the shopping conspiracy or Earth Focus: The Cost of Fast Fashion.

News; birthdays/events; dorm survival kit...what would be in yours?; word of the day. News; game: quiz; game: feud; are mornings or afternoons more stressful with kids? News; what is something you have never done?; how messy are you?; how to avoid the 'Sunday scaries'. News; there are a lot of things we don't agree on...but here are some universal things we all hate; game: calendar trivia; goodbye/fun facts....national waffle day...Ancient Greece offered the predecessor to waffles by roasting flat cakes between two hot metal plates that were attached to long wooden handles and placed in the oven or over a fire. But on August 24, 1869, Cornelius Swarthout of Troy, New York received his patent for the waffle iron. His invention made waffles more readily available. Eaten throughout the world, a waffle is a leavened batter or dough. When cooked between two patterned plates, the dough bakes in the waffle's characteristic uniform impressed surface. For the serious waffles lovers in the world, one amazing place is Belgium, specifically the capital city of Brussels. Belgian waffles are thicker and fluffier with deep grid pockets, traditionally made with a yeast or whipped egg white batter while regular aka American waffles are thinner and denser with a cake-like texture and shallow squares, typically made with baking powder and quick batter.

News; birthdays/events; even MLB players mess up at their job...when was the last work faux pas you did?; word of the day. News; game: classic movie line quotes; is it ok to taste produce in the grocery store--how much is too much?; do you leave work immediately when your shift is over or do you hang around for awhile? News; game: just under $1,000 pyramid; are there smells everyone loves but you don't or smells you love but no one else does?; more funny movie cliches we're getting tired of. News; game: name these TV catchphrases; when it comes to classic comfort foods...do you like to 'change it up' or keep the ingredients standard?; goodbye/fun facts....men's grooming day...There's a lot of stigma around male grooming. But it's been around since ancient egypt...but in today's society, it's simply not acceptable to be scruffy, smelly and unkempt. Ditch the sterotypes and treat yourself to a fresh haircut, upgrade your skincare, or try a new fragrance. Whether it's a hair pomade, face wash or a bro mask, men's grooming has been evolving since 1851. Originating as an apothecary in New York City's East Village, Kiehl's is renowned for its scientifically advanced skincare. In 1901 King C. Gillette revolutionized shaving with his disposable safety razor. By 1937, Old Spice, one of the oldest and most recognizable men's grooming brands, came on the scene...they now offer a large line of deodorants and body washes. 

News; birthdays/events; how many loyalty programs do you belong to?; word of the day. News; tech terms to be aware of for parents/grandparents; besides important paperwork...what things should you never throw away (according to House Beautiful list); game: 5 second rule. News; has Oreo gone too far?; list: advice someone gave you that changed your life; game: minute mysteries. News; game:Getting to Know You; your kids might start using "Britishisms"; goodbye/fun facts....chocolate pecan pie day-- the only nuts native to North America. There is evidence that Native Americans were consuming pecans as far back as 10,000 years ago. The word 'pecan' is thought to have roots in the Algonquin word meaning 'hard nut to crack.' Chocolate itself is derived from the cacao plant that has a history dating back approximately 4000 years to Mesoamerica. While pecan pies were likely being eaten before the 1800s, the first official published recipe was in an issue of "Harper's Bazaar" magazine in 1886. The pecan capital of the United States is highly contested, but one place that calls themselves this is Albany, Georgia---and a 2013 Buzzfeed survey ranks pecan pie as the fourth most important pie of all-time. 

News; birthdays/events; when it comes to AI and homework...how do parents and teacher (and students) deal with this?; word of the day. News; game: Star Trek trivia; funny ways people realized they were getting old; Hotels.com says these are the worst habits of travelers...do you do any of these? News; game: celebrities real birth names; 2 people--same name--same industry..should one of them change their name?; what makes you 'grinchy'? News; game: movie lines; 1st app you open everyday; goodbye/fun facts....national potato day...Potato chips, hash-browns, baked potatoes, home fries, mashed potatoes, and tater skins are just some of the incredibly delicious things you can make with potatoes--the potato is an unusual little tuber that has played an important role in the history of the world. In 8000 bc The Inca in Peru are the first in the world to cultivate the potato. Today, the humble potato is the fifth most crop worldwide, coming in after wheat, corn, rice, and sugar cane. A recent survey shows that McDonald's (far and away) makes our favorite french fries of all the fast food restaurants.

News; birthdays/events; how do you deal with expenses when travelling with friends?; word of the day. News; now that kids are getting back to school are you in "fall mode"?; game: General Trivia; funny ways people messed up job interviews. News; new windowless airplane design looks like a person in a flying squirrel suit...would you fly in it?; game: finish the lyric; do you like cgi in movies or prefer 'old shcool' cartoons? News; which celebritie(s) are over-exposed in your book?; game: I should have known that; goodbye/fun facts....national ice cream pie day...First came putting ice cream on pies. The natural next step would be making ice cream into pies. Historians agree that variations of ice cream, or at least frozen treats, have been around for centuries. Earlier versions were likely more like shaved ice with honey or fruit flavors. Later versions evolved into something like sherbet, and then eventually milk was added to create a version similar to what is known today as ice cream. But the ice cream pie has a much more recent history. It seems that ice cream pie was probably developed in the United States, perhaps by Italian immigrants, at some time in the mid-20th century. This timing would go along with the introduction of the freezer into restaurants and homes. Today you can frind them at ice cream shops and grocery stores or you can make your own!

News; birthdays/events; remember when kid's birthday parties got out of hand...now it's this for kids; word of the day. News; game: quiz; game: feud; when it comes to meal prep is convenience or affordability more important? News; do you want fall flavors available all year?; bars are banning smart glasses...why?; how often do you think about money? most of us do first thing after we wake up. News; how many trips will you make bringing things in from the car?; game: calendar trivia; goodbye/fun facts....national pineapple juice day... the tropical drink that delivers a refreshing boost of hydration and Vitamin C. Native to South America, pineapple arrived in Hawaii courtesy of the Spanish sometime in the 18th century. However, the truly juicy story of pineapple juice unfolds there with a man named James Dole playing a pivotal role. In 1899, James Dole moved to Hawaii with $1,000, a Harvard degree in business and horticulture, and a love of farming. Dole began growing pineapples on his newly purchased 60-acre pineapple plantation and quickly realized he had a sweet opportunity to provide the juiciest pineapples to the world....so you can enjoy a glass by itself, in a coctail, or even use it in baking.

News; birthdays/events; should AI be watermarked...would that even matter?; word of the day. News; apparently it's not just the inside of watermelon that's delicious; game: Steve Martin trivia; who is the 'dinner manager' in your house? News; when is considered "too early/too late" to call someone at home?; game: broken and repeating records from the 1970's; when your car is making a non mechanical issue sound...do you take it to a mechanic or just deal with it? News; have you ever worked with someone who got arrested at work?; game: name that tune; goodbye/fun facts....national creamsicle day..."Creamsicle" is the brand name of an ice cream treat. It consists of vanilla ice cream on a Popsicle stick with an outer coating of sherbert. While many other flavors now exist, the original flavor was orange. The beginnings of this sweet treat dates back to 1905 when 11 year old Frank Epperson accidentally created what would later become known as the Popsicle. As the story goes, Epperson left a concoction of fruit juice and water outside overnight when the temperatures dropped below freezing. When he found the frozen mix the next morning, with a stir stick frozen in the middle, the Popsicle was born. In 1925: The Joe Lowe Company bought the rights to the Popsicle patent and expanded the line....by 1937 the classic orange-and-vanilla Creamsicle made its official market debut. Today many other flavors exist like: cherry, grape, lime, blue raspberry, and blueberry.

News; birthdays/events; we love our condiments and Heinz has a new 'gimmick bottle'; word of the day. News; game:Mind the Gap 1; game:Mind the Gap 2; many students can't leave/off campus lunch...guess what they're doing now! News; game: everybody knows; common etiquette mistakes; should we get rid of coins all together? News; when was the last time you tallied up your 'average daily spending'?; if you have a friend getting married but see red flags they don't see...would you say something?; goodbye/fun facts....National Prosecco Day--invites everyone to the party to enjoy the effervescent charm of Italy's beloved sparkling wine. Prosecco was named after the Italian village of Prosecco, which is also named after the Prosecco grape. Apart from the sparkling wine we all know and love, it is also made and available in a still wine. Prosecco's bubbles come in many forms. Spumante is the bubbliest of the proseccos followed by frizzante. Finally, the calmest is the tranquillo. One of the most popular processo drinks was created in 1919 by the Barbieri brothers in Padua, Italy, Aperol is a vibrant orange apéritif. It's famously combined with Prosecco and soda water to create the popular Aperol Spritz, a quintessential Italian summer cocktail. 

News; birthdays/events; do you unplug your appliances after every use?; word of the day. News; game: I should have know that yes or no?; there are definitely some jobs A.I. shouldn't do!; Uber drivers are complaining about micro trips. News; game: battle of the sexes part 1; game: battle of the sexes part 2; has your car ever been hit by an errant piece of sports equipment? News; if you or A.I. could hack a waiting list system...would you?; how many 'lazy days' do you need per year?; goodbye/fun facts....National Julienne Fries Day--invites everyone to celebrate the delightful, thinly cut potato sticks. These elegant fries, known for their extra crispiness, offer a unique texture and flavor experience. They've been around since at least 1722 in Francois Massialot's Le Cuisinier Royal et Bourgeoi for the oldest known written reference to the julienne cut although revolutionary French chef and restaurateur Georges Auguste Escoffier often gets the credit.  The julienne cut involves cutting food into long, thin strips, often resembling matchsticks. You can find julienne fries at restaurants, you can make your own, or you can buy matchstick potatoes in a can at the grocery store!

News; birthdays/events; how would you feel if airlines started charging for overhead space?; word of the day. News; these body language gestures/actions can impact your popularity; what are the Christmas trends for 2026?;  game: music that came from Germany. News; with 'tipflation' out of control....here are some people you never have to tip; everyday activities can have some really intersting medical benefits; game: mindtrap. News; pro athletes often get into sports broadcasting when their careers have run their course....but not this bball player; game: 3 word movie descriptions; goodbye/fun facts....Play in the Sand Day--head outside to play on a beach (beach volleyball, ultimate frisbee, sand sculpting), or at a park, or in the backyard to enjoy the summer sunshine, while playing in the sand. Plus it gives us a  chance to connect with the earth and unleash creativity. Swiss psychoanalyst Carl Jung's 1914 development of sand play therapy further underscored its therapeutic benefits. Fast forward to the 1950s, and the toy industry had begun to capitalize on the popularity of sand play. It started producing a range of toys designed specifically for this purpose. But not all parents love the idea of loose sand all over the house...so luckily today is also kinetic sand day....which is a soft, moldable sand made from natural ultra-fine sand and 2% silicone oil and unlike regular sand, this product sticks to itself, allowing users to create shapes without making a mess.

News; birthdays/events; how do you 'transistion' to your at-home self after a long day out?; word of the day. News; game: quiz; game: feud; Buzzfeed list of some "non essential" essesentials you should keep in your car. News; what similiarities do you see between you and your parents?; do you remember your childhood phone number or first driver's license plate number?; would to take a helicopter to run errands? News; game: calendar trivia; if you could swap lives with anyone famous for the day...who and why?; goodbye/fun facts....National S'mores Day--gather around a campfire or firepit --this treat originated in the U.S.A., s'mores are the perfect blend of gooey marshmallow, rich chocolate, and crisp graham cracker. The first mention of this great American camping treat was in the 1920s in a book of recipes published by Campfire Marshmallows...at that time, the recipe was called a 'Graham Cracker Sandwich' and suggested the treat had already been made popular by the Boy and Girl Scouts. Later, in 1927, the Girl Scouts published a similar recipe in "Tramping and Trailing with the Girl Scouts" but they called it 'some more.' Finally, in the late '30s to late '50s, various recipes gave the name as we know it today, s'mores. ​While 41% of people surveyed in a recent study enjoy s'mores most during the summer, the 20% die-hards enjoy them year-round.

News; birthdays/events; what happened to recess?; word of the day. News; what not to do if you hear a noise downstairs in the middle of the night (according to police); 14% of people who work from home...work from this unusual place;  game: Mindtrap revisited. News; have you ever been asked to produce your digital receipt when leaving a store...does it offend you?; animal fallacies...do toads really give you warts?; game: just under $1,000 pyramid. News; what would you do with an unexpected day off?; game: music jeopardy; goodbye/fun facts....Particularly Preposterous Packaging Day unpacks our collective frustration with excessive or difficult-to-open packaging...from oversized boxes for tiny items to impenetrable plastic clamshells. Amazon is the world's largest online retailer, often criticized for excessive packaging on small items. They have invested in 'Frustration-Free Packaging' initiatives to reduce waste and improve the customer experience. British cosmetics retailer, Lush,  known for its ethical sourcing and 'naked' packaging philosophy, offering many products without any packaging at all to reduce environmental impact.  TerraCycle is a private U.S. recycling company that collects and repurposes hard-to-recycle waste, including many forms of complex product packaging that traditional recycling systems cannot handle".

News; birthdays/events; would you live in a pineapple under the sea?; word of the day. News; favorite toy growing up says a lot about your adult personality; game: outburst; does combing 2 sports make them more watchable? (i.e. frisbee-golf) News; do you use your parents house as a storage facility...do your kids do the same to you?; game: music jeopardy; can you take a teenager seriously when they have adult jobs? News; do you leave music on for your dog when you leave the house? (spoiler alert: Ashley does); game: mindtrap; goodbye/fun facts....National Fresh Breath Day was started as a way to promote oral hygiene so that we are never embarrassed by how our breath smells! The day hopes to encourage more people to take their oral health seriously. We're supposed to brush our teeth at least two times a day, floss, and regularly visit the dentist. In 1780 William Adis creates the first mass produced modern toothbrush....before that ancient egyptians used twigs with leaves attached or they could chew on pulverized eggshells and bones. Today is a reminder to evaluate your oral hygiene and make any necessary adjustments.

News; birthdays/events; what's the "mini hill" you're willing to die on?; word of the day. News; game: what year was it?; when you buy tix to an event...rain or shine...and it rains, do you still go?; Only Fans isn't just what you think...it could help fund a reasearch lab. News; game: one chord songs; funny stories of the biggest lies parents told their kids; dirty jobs...could you do one? News; game: Brady Bunch trivia; "no influencer" signs are popping up in stores and restaurants around the country; goodbye/fun facts.... National Dash Cam Day highlights the vital role of in-car cameras...they help with road safety, act as objective witnesses, deter theft, and potentially save you money on insurance. Dash cams were actually introduced in 1939 when a police officer brought a hand-crank camera onboard a Victoria streetcar to capture the ride for the motion picture screen. By 1980 dashcams are financed for widespread usage in law enforcement. Today, only a small percentage of cars come with built in dash cams...but anyone can buy a dash cam system to mount and use with any car!

News; birthdays/events; our phones have DND...but how do you let someone at work know that you're in DND mode?; word of the day. News; game: what year was it?; funny 1st world problems; do you bring your own candy to the movies? what about your own crockpot? News; game: name that harmonica tune; do you notice how much more you spend on the weekends in the Summer vs any other season?; is KFC getting into the steak lane? News; game: mindtrap; 70% off all Americans travel with snacks; goodbye/fun facts....U.S. Coast Guard Birthday day commemorates the founding of this vital military branch on August 4th 1790. This day honors the brave men and women who safeguard our nation's waterways, enforce maritime law, and perform critical search and rescue missions. Alexander Hamilton, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, established the Revenue Cutter Service on August 4, 1790. This service was the precursor to the modern U.S. Coast Guard. In 1915 they changed their name from the revenue cutter service to the coast guard and in 2003 The U.S. Department of Homeland Security took over jurisdiction following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. If you think it's an easy job....The qualifying criteria is so tough that 50% of applicants fail every year.

News; birthdays/events; going back to school...getting the kids ready; word of the day. News; game: quiz; game: feud; dept of transportation typos (scool crossing etc) News; Ashley TJ Maxx SFA; if you had the means...would you hire family members?; besides drinking it...things you can do with beer. News; did you know that you can send money to the government to pay off our national debt?; game: calendar trivia goodbye/fun facts....National Friendship Day celebrates the vital, loving connections we share with our platonic companions. It's a day for us to reach out, express gratitude, and strengthen the bonds that make our life richer...today you can take a friend out for coffee today or call/text a friend just to let them know how much they mean to you. Humans are the most social beings on earth: we need to relate to others--our sociological needs motivate our behavior, encouraging us to make interpersonal relationships and connect with others on a deeper level. In 1998 the United Nations named Winnie the Pooh as the world's Ambassador of Friendship. 

News; birthdays/events; would you switch your date night to a 'hookie day'?; word of the day. News; game: common knowledge; unspoken grill rules; first dating stories cringy. News; game: I should have known that yes or no?; the time you naturally wake up reveals your personality; would you hire mysterious people to come to your funeral? News; game: general trivia; what item is your household running out of?; goodbye/fun facts....World Ranger Day. Around the globe, park rangers are on the front line in the fight to protect our natural heritage. World Ranger Day offers a chance to support their vital work. It's estimated there are more than 100,000 reserves, parks and protected areas around the world. Rangers will usually work with other volunteers and staff members in order to maintain bridges, stiles, gates, and footpaths. They are also the eyes and ears of the national park authority, spending most of their time out and about. Documentary filmmaker Sean Willmore made it his mission to bring real-life stories of the plight of park rangers into the public spotlight through the lens of a camera. He spent nearly a year interviewing rangers in 23 countries, uncovering and recording inspirational stories of service and sacrifice for the documentary film, "The Thin Green Line." Park rangers serve as law enforcement officers, environmentalists, cultural historians, and sometimes all three of these roles.

News; birthdays/events; how often do you join then cancel services?; word of the day. News; freak accident story with a happy ending; chores that might not exist in the next 10+ years; game: Movies trivia. News; Items born out of necessity; do you go to theme parks if you don't have kids?; game: Schwarzenegger taglines. News; game: 80s 90s trivia; if you had to pick vanilla, chocolate, or strawberrry ice cream...which one? Edy's/Dreyer's survey; goodbye/fun facts....national chili dog day. The hot dog has come a long way since German immigrant Charles Feltman first sold 'frankfurters on milk buns' from his snack stand in 1867. In the 1870's Chili shows up in the U.S. for the first time in San Antonio, sold by a woman by the nickname of "Chili Queen".  In 1916 a former Feltman employee, Nathan Handwerker, opens his own Coney Island hot dog stand and sells hot dogs for a nickel instead of a dime. Chili dogs perfectly embody the melting pot of American cuisine, blending influences from various cultures into something uniquely American....today, on the top 5 list of hot dog condiments...chili comes in at #4.

News; birthdays/events; should teachers have to spend the first few weeks of school dealing with the 'Summer slide' or would this new option be a good idea?; word of the day. News; game: name these songs from 1986;  first class problem....what would you do?; how many people on the grounds crew does it take to handle a situation? News; game: TV catch phrases; have you ever been stuck somewhere for hours like a stuck roller coaster or elevator? a maintenance worker got trapped inside a giant sign for 4 hours!!; we talked yesterday about having a great idea but never acting on it...what about people who do something...but their idea is ridiculous!! (funny story) News; game: baseball player nicknames; would you want to live to 150?; goodbye/fun facts....national chicken wing day. Also known as buffalo wings, hot wings, or just wings, each of us eats about 290 per year. While a chicken has two wings per bird, it produces four of these tasty morsels when we split the wing into 2 pieces. Although Blue Cheese is the standard for dipping with Buffalo Wings, more people tend to prefer Ranch Dressing with their wings. It all started in 1964, bar co-owner, Teresa Belissimo, was trying to make a late night snack for her son and his friends at Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York. She then put them on the bar menu the next day and the rest is history

News; birthdays/events; a fun way to get your family to eat leftovers; word of the day. News; pickle flavored everything has been the latest craze...can you guess what flavor is next?; game: Brad reads song lyrics; when is good enough..."good enough"!!! News; almost half of us say we have a great idea that can be turned into something (but most of us never do anything about it)...why?; game: just over $1,000 pyramid; is it a good idea to have var/replay/ai technology in sports? News; behavioral changes to help fight dementia; game: songs from 1986; goodbye/fun facts.... National Waterpark Day...whether you like the thrilling rides, giant wave pools, and lazy rivers there is something for everyone to enjoy. In 1923 Herbert Sellner designs a ride with water toboggans that would slide down large inclines and skim across bodies of water....but the person credited as the 'Father of the Waterpark,' George Millay (1929-2006) was an American entrepreneur who founded SeaWorld in 1964 and later opened Wet 'n Wild in Orlando, Florida, in 1977. His vision for a dedicated park solely focused on water rides revolutionized the amusement industry.  Today, there are waterparks all over the U.S....indoor parks, outdoor parks...and you can enjoy it all without dealing with hassle and expensive of a backyard pool.  

News; birthdays/events: Spiderman is real!! (at least acting like a superhero is a real thing!); word of the day. News; game: quiz; game: feud; when someone "guarantees" a product...does that really mean anything anymore? News; lease or buy (NOT talking about cars) but lots of other products do this...good idea?; as a kid what was your favorite part of back to school....and now as a parent?; lots of extreme sports out there...why is this 'sport' now being included? and could you do it? News; what TV show puts you in a good mood? (even if you haven't seen it for a long time); game: calendar trivia; goodbye/fun facts....National Crème Brûlée Day. This exquisite French dessert is a custard made up of a mixture of vanilla-infused cream, egg yolks, and sugar that is crowned with a perfectly torched sugar crust...most people assume creme brulee was invented by the French...but it was around since medieval times...the French just perfected it!  In medieval times...Crema Catalana, a custard topped with caramelized sugar, is reportedly served regularly in Spain. Then by the 1400's Burnt cream dessert — branded with the official college crest on top — begins to be served at Trinity College in Cambridge, England...but the first printed version of the creme brulee appeared in a 1691 edition of a French cookbook...hence the credit to the French. It's all about the sugar crack!

News; birthdays/events; game: 10 worst songs of the 80s according to Rolling Stone magazine; word of the day. News; "couture controversy" at work...is this taking casual dress too far?; game: Mind the gap part 1; some 'curb appeal' features really irk the neighbors. News; how much post vacation prep do you do before you go on vacation?; game:Mind the gap part 2; Crayola colors have influenced some new Jones Soda flavors.  News; accidental product misuses...have you ever done this?; worst pizza toppings; goodbye/fun facts....National Day of Motoring celebrates the thrill of the open road--it encourages everyone to take their cars on a journey and explore new destinations. Most of us just use our cars to get from point A to point B without enjoying any part of the trip. Today...Plan a scenic drive, visit a national park, or simply enjoy a cruise with friends and family.  Use today as a reason to slow down, explore new roads, and rediscover the simple pleasure of being behind the wheel--- the freedom of motion. You may even find great deals and rebates on car accessories from auto retailers.

News; birthdays/events; is it ok to hold up a lunchtime drive thru line to hand out food to the people in the car?; word of the day. News; biggest box office flops; don't you love when celebrities/icons are super nice in real life? (funny story); game: outburst. News; what's the 'Batman effect'?; if you constantly got upgraded because an employee thought you were someone famous...would you say anything?; game: what disco beat is this? News; what's the last thing you misplaced...how long did you 'waste time' to look for it?;  game: name these guitar riffs; goodbye/fun facts....national lemon day. Lemons are believed to be native to South Asia, although some say they may have originated in Northeast India. Citron, which is similar to a lemon, was found in a Persian garden near Jerusalem said to be at least 2,500 years old. Today, lemons are found all over the world as part of our culinary creations and for medicinal uses. Drink a beverage with lemons, bake with lemons, and clean with lemons, too. And yellow is considered the most optimistic of all colors--it's associated with the brightness of the sun during the summer months. 

News; birthdays/events; lots of people from other countries came to the U.S. recently...here are some things Americans wish the U.S. would do like Europe; word of the day. News; game: Brad reads song lyrics; are you ever "too old" to wear certain styles?; would you rather re-live a bad year in your life and make it better or re-live the best year of your life? News; game: common knowledge questions; when you go out to dinner with a friend of the same gender do you sit across from them or next to them (at a 4 top table)?; when it comes to food that has a bunch of choices in a category (like potato chips) how do you find a favorite? News; game: word ladder; would you pay to go into a cooling booth?; goodbye/fun facts....Spoonerism Day honors the delightful linguistic quirks known as spoonerisms. These accidental transpositions of initial sounds in words, like 'flutterby' for 'butterfly,' or calling jelly beans" "belly jeans". It's celebrates on the anniversary of the birth of Rev. Dr. William Archibald Spooner. This British clergyman as well as long-standing fellow and lecturer at Oxford University was well-known, even infamous, for being absentminded and getting his tongue twisted when speaking. Spooner was no dummy, though...quite the contrary. His thinking was so quick that his mouth couldn't keep up. Long before Spooner was born, the Greeks had a term for this sort of impediment — metathesis, which refers to the act of rearranging items. So next time you mix up words and phrases...your brain is probably just working super fast!

News; birthdays/events; how long does it take you to 'recover' when your team loses?; word of the day. News; dangerous office personalities; game: music from 1978; new emojis.  News; funny story of the day; game: song lyrics read by Brad; back to school bargains. News; what your phone background says about you; game: movies trivia; goodbye/fun facts....National Junk Food Day is the perfect day to treat yourself--you get to eat anything you want in any amounts that you want, too.  In the 1970s is when junk food started to get a bad name when microbiologist, Michael Jacobson, actually coined the phrase. His aim was to try and curb our appetite for high preservative, high salt, and high sugar foods, which we were eating at a worrying rate. A lot of people think Americans inveneted junk food but actually junk food has it's roots in Europe. In 1860 the first fish and chips shop opens in Oldham, England--then in 1869 Berlin-based Max Sielaff invents the first automat, which serves simple food and drinks. In 1902 Joseph Horn and Frank Hardart bring an automat and, along with it fast food, to New York City. Enjoy a cheat day today because tomorrow it's back to a healthy diet.

News; birthdays/events; deep "would you rather?" question; word of the day. News; game: quiz; game: feud; what is something that truly impresses you? News; worst candy bar list...do you agree?; would you ever have a friend call in a job on your behalf? (for a sick day or to quit for you); how to pick the best bbq for your needs...is this an item would replace if you thought it would make you eat healthier? News; license plates are given out randomly but if you got one you found offensive would you try to get another one? game: calendar trivia; goodbye/fun facts....international chess day. The origins of chess are a matter of debate. Multiple theories attribute the beginning of this game to countries like India, China, Russia, and Central Asia. A popular theory credits the Indian war game — 'chaturanga' — as the inspiration for chess. A version of chaturanga or a later variant called 'shatranj' made its way into Europe through Persia, the Byzantine Empire, and the Arabian Empire. Chess's popularity can be attributed to the fact that it was associated with wealth, knowledge, and power. By 1835, the Standardized Chess Set was created by an Englishman, Nathaniel Cook. For those who have never played (or it's been a long time!), try going out and learning how to play. Ask a friend to give lessons, or get some instructions online. There are definitely some great chess shows like Queen's Gambit and the documentary Judit Polgar called Queen of Chess.

News; birthdays/events; Brad's I play Rocky S.F.A. story; word of the day. News; how do you handle it when you show someone a pic on your phone but they start swiping through your pics?; there are people rental companies (rent a bridesmaid, rent a friend, and now rent a bbq buddy); game: Walt Disney trivia (71st anniversary of Disneyland) News; funny thoughts (from the internet); common driving superstitions (Mental Floss list); game: lead singers read their autobiographies. News; game: movie password; if staying in is almost as expensive as going out...what's your preference?; goodbye/fun facts....national peach ice cream day. The peach, this juicy fruit that grows on a medium-size tree, is native to China and was taken to the New World by Spanish explorers in the 16th century. Commercial cultivation and a favorable climate has made this fruit the second largest fruit crop produced in the United States (after apples). Like other ice cream flavors, the creation of peach ice cream also has an intriguing story behind it. It all started when Auguste Escoffier, a French chef, created a new dessert for a dinner party. The sweet dish was a fascinating ice sculpture of a swan that was resting on vanilla ice cream and was topped with peaches and sugar. If you have an ice cream maker...you can certainly make your own since peaches are in peak season until early August....or you can find peach ice cream from your favorite ice cream maker or ice cream shop.

News; birthdays/events; game: just over $1,000 pyramid; word of the day. News; what sm 'oddly satisfying' videos are you watching?; we love 'nostalgia' vacations...what are your favs?; game: password. News; do you take freebies even if you don't want/need them?; should seasonal items be kept in the back of the store?; if you could manipulate time with a smell...what would it be? News; grocery store mistakes; game: people in 3 words; goodbye/fun facts....national corn fritters day--they make great additions to Summer barbecues and backyard gatherings. The main ingredients include corn, meal, egg, milk, and butter. While they may have originated in the south, corn fritters can easily be changed up with peppers, onions, or herbs to give them regional and seasonal flair. Native Americans have been using maize, which is ground corn, as food for thousands of years – long before explorers from Europe came to the New world. In Pre-Columbian Americas, corn-based products were considered staple foods. When European settlers came to America, they started to make their own variations of cornmeal-based dishes-The corn fritter was invented in the southern US...which is known for having a lot of deep fried foods. Corn is the number one crop grown in the United States, and we produce more corn than any country in the world. If you have never tried the Indonesian version of corn fritters before, why not give this recipe a try for something different...their's is much more savory and you find lots of different recipes online.

News; birthdays/events; an interesting way to pay for expenisve dinners at a Michelin starred restaurant; word of the day. News; another installment of: "Americans think very highly of themselves"; game: name these films based on their movie score; if you go to a party/event etc and someone shows up wearing the same outfit...how do you react? News; what was the worst concert you ever attended?; game: common knowledge questions; if you see someone "scary" walking towards you...do you cross the street? News; how do you remember people's birthdays?; game: name these movies by these quotes; goodbye/fun facts....national give something away day--you've no doubt heard the sayings: It's better to give than to receive, and one man's trash is another man's treasure--today is the day to do just that. Almost all of us have perfectly good items sitting in a closet or basement might want to take this opportunity to do a bit of purging and give some of those things away. And it's a win-win: decluttering your space is a benefit to you, and the things you give away will be a benefit to someone else. More than 10% of Americans rent offsite storage and 25% of people with two-car garages don't have room to park cars inside them. We spend $1.2 trillion – in America alone annually on nonessential goods...so go through your stuff and see how much of that unused stuff you can give away.

News; birthdays/events; Jonah the dog gets his own special day; word of the day. News; game: Guitar solos; what would you like in an adult Happy Meal?; State Fair food. News; game: I should have known that; things that can 'make or break' your Summer;  have you ever ruined something that you just got? (car, computer etc) News; game: everybody knows; spiteful ways people got revenge on bad roommates; goodbye/fun facts....World Chimpanzee Day was established by the folks at the Jane Goodall Institute. Celebrated on this date because it is the anniversary of the day when Dr. Jane Goodall first stepped foot into the Gombe Stream National Park in Tanzania, on July 14, 1960. The work done by Dr. Goodall provided amazing insight into the unique communities in which these intelligent creatures dwell.  In 1961, a chimpanzee named Ham became the first hominid to travel to space. His mission tested NASA's Mercury spacecraft and helped ensure human safety for future flights. Chimpanzees are extremely intelligent primates, using special gestures, facial expressions and sounds in order to communicate with each other. They are one of the few animal groups that use tools to get things done. Today all four of the subspecies of chimpanzees are on the endangered list. You can find lots of chimp documentaries to learn more.

News; birthdays/events; feel good story of the day; word of the day. News; game: quiz; game: feud; how long will you wait for your s.o. to get ready before you start getting aggravated? News; when you get a raise/promotion...how do you celebrate?; can a person be "too honest" when it comes to a job interview?; what food or drink from your childhood do you wish you could have everyday? News; finders keepers losers weepers; game: calendar trivia; goodbye/fun facts....national beans n franks day. This classic dish is similar to pork 'n' beans, but substitutes sliced hot dogs for the pork. Baked beans date back to the Civil War era and were among the first canned convenience foods in the United States. ​Combining hot dogs with baked beans became popular in the 20th century, offering an affordable and filling meal. Home cooks love to put their own spin on the dish...they often elevate the canned base by adding brown sugar, diced onions, mustard, barbecue sauce, and custom spices....and adding different types of hot dogs: turkey, chicken, or even veggie dogs.

News; birthdays/events; do you know what the "label of truth" means? (funny ketchup story); word of the day. News; if you're an autograph seeker, do you prefer someone signing a piece of paper or some of memorablia?; another internet dividing question: when it comes to tipping--do you tip on the original amount or the discounted amount if you're using a coupon?; game: what year was it? News; do you have season 2 fatigue?; game: songs that feature sax; apparently we have unleashed "the ranch monster" News; travel expert reveals how to get the most out of your "staycation"; game: guess these celebrities in 3 words; goodbye/fun facts....French Fries are one of many foods whose name is most misleading, as the origins of this fat fried food seem to be in Belgium. The story of their creation can be found in a family manuscript dated 1781, which reveals that potatoes were originally cut into the shape of fish and served in lieu of the fish normally caught in a series of small villages in Belgium and why they're called French is often attributed to a popular theory that troops coming over during World War I got their hands on Belgian Fries. However, there is another more popular and accepted theory to their name is that Thomas Jefferson brought the dish to the U.S.A. While serving time as an ambassador, Jefferson spent a lot of time in France and went on to serve "potatoes served in the French manner" at a White House dinner in 1802. Whether you prefer them thin, thick, curly, or crinkle-cut, this is the day to celebrate with your favorite dipping sauce.

News; birthdays/events; do you make your kids deal with the consequences--even when they're 'adults'?; word of the day. News; instead of taking pics on your next vacation, try this.; a new EV on the market...it's a blank "slate"; game: Tom Hanks trivia. News; have you felt like a movie perfectly captured your actual life? (list); did you ever see something at someone else's house that made you never want to go back?; game: Outburst. News; what does the new 'dream home' look like? (new study/list); game: name these drum intro songs;  goodbye/fun facts....National Sugar Cookie Day finds its origins in the roots of the sugar cookie, which in its turn can be traced back to the 1700s among the Nazarene's of Pennsylvania. In those days it was specifically known as the Nazareth Sugar Cookie, as it was the only recipe of its kind...Most sugar cookies are made with a mixture of sugar, vanilla, eggs, butter, flour, and either baking soda or baking powder....Using powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar in some recipes yields a softer, denser cookie because it contains a touch of cornstarch. Chilling the dough before baking is key. It prevents spreading, ensuring sharp edges and well-defined shapes. 

News; birthdays/events; what kind of 'crawl' would you be interested in?; word of the day. News; game: Kevin Bacon movies; would you exercise for free things?; funny list: words/phrases you use when you can't remember what something is called. News; game: Song titles that follow A-B-A; should more companies have a "product graveyard"?; T and T wedding...even if you don't care...aren't you interested in the officiant? News; game: general trivia; if you woke up in your 10 year old childhood bedroom and have all the knowledge you have now...what's the first thing you'd do?; goodbye/fun facts....national cucumber salad day. This is the ultimate summer celebration dedicated to the fresh, crisp, and undeniably delicious world of cucumber salad. So grab your mandoline and prep your favorite dressing. By early July, gardens across the country are beginning to overflow with cucumbers. It's the peak of the "dog days of summer" and the last thing anyone wants to do is turn on a hot oven. Cucumbers are often dismissed as just crunchy water because they are 95% water but they contain flavonoid and tannin compounds to help block harmful free radicals. They are rich in vitamin K and silica, which help with bone health. The day honors Logan Moffitt, the viral "Cucumber King" of TikTok whose recipes sparked a global culinary craze.