Today in history

Today is Saturday, February 17, the 48th day of 2018 and the 59th day of winter.

Today’s Highlights in History:

In 1801, the U.S. House of Representatives resolved an electoral tie by electing Thomas Jefferson president and his opponent, Aaron Burr, vice president. In 1933, the Blaine Act initiated the repeal

of Prohibition in the United States. In 1974, a disgruntled U.S. Army private stole an Army helicopter at Fort Meade in Maryland and landed it on the White House lawn.

Today’s fact: The House of Representatives conducted 36 votes (one tie, 35 indecisive) before Thomas Jefferson was chosen as president over Aaron Burr.

Today’s sports: In 1943, Joe DiMaggio of the New York Yankees enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Force. He was released on medical discharge in September 1945 due to chronic stomach ulcers.

Today’s number: 29 million – certified U.S. album sales for “Eagles: Their Greatest Hits 1971-1975” (released on this date in 1976), the first album certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America.

Today’s moon: Between new moon (Feb. 15) and first quarter moon (Feb. 23).

Birthdays

Hal Holbrook (1925- ), actor; Rene Russo (1954- ), actress; Larry the Cable Guy (1963- ), comedian; Michael Jordan (1963- ), basketball player; Denise Richards (1971- ), actress; (1972- ), Paris Hilton (1981- ), socialite; Ed Sheeran (1991- ), singer-songwriter.