Today in history

Today is Wednesday, December 20, the 354th day of 2017 and the 90th day of autumn.

On this date in the SCV: In 1988, The Signal reported that Santa Clarita Mayor Buck McKeon had suggested opening both sides of the Antelope Valley freeway to one direction of travel during rush hours to help ease traffic congestion. For example, during peak morning rush hours when traffic headed south toward Los Angeles, the northbound lanes would also be set aside solely for southbound commuters, McKeon said. In turn, northbound motorists would be rerouted onto two-laned Sierra Highway running roughly parallel to the freeway from the Antelope Valley to the northern San Femando Valley. “I’m sure we’ll hear many reasons why it can’t be done,” McKeon said, adding his admittedly “wild idea” could evolve into a viable solution.

Today’s Highlights in History: In 1803, the territory covered by the Louisiana Purchase was formally transferred to the United States from France. In 1860, South Carolina seceded from

the United States. In 1941, with his army under pressure on the Russian front, Adolf Hitler ordered “no retreat.” In 1946, the Christmas film “It’s a Wonderful Life” was released in New York City. In 1989, the United States invaded Panama to overthrow dictator Manuel Noriega in Operation Just Cause.

Today’s fact: Adolf Hitler was released from Landsberg Prison in the German state of Bavaria on this day in 1924 after 264 days of incarceration for treason.

Today’s sports: In 1946, boxer Sugar Ray Robinson won the welterweight crown by a unanimous decision over Tommy Bell.

Today’s number: 2.2 million – acres of land owned by media billionaire John Malone, making him the largest private landowner in the United States.

Today’s moon: Between new moon (Dec. 17) and first quarter moon (Dec. 26).