National Potato Day
August 19
Potato is the world’s fourth most produced staple – after wheat, corn and rice. The average American eats 138 pounds of potatoes each year. Of that number, half is fresh, and half is industrially processed (chips, dehydrated potato, canned potato). Each day over a billion people eat at least one potato. Potatoes are the second most consumed food in United States, behind milk. Potato is consisted of 20% solids and 80% of water! Potatoes were first domesticated around 8 thousand years ago in South America. They were introduced into Europe via Spanish conquistadors. Potato has more Vitamin C than orange, more potassium than a banana and more fiber than apple.
International Orangutan Day
August 19
These red-haired apes are thought to have a DNA that is 97% similar to that of human beings. In fact, the name orangutan is derived from two Malay words “orang” and “hutan” which means “human of the forest.” Female Orangutans are known to have the longest birth interval of any land mammal. They give birth once every eight years to one or two infants whom they live with for 6-7 years after birth
Orangutans that live in the wild forests have a lifespan of 30-40 years. However, those that live in captivity may live as long as 50-60 years.
Today’s Birthdays of Note….
Bill Clinton – 42nd President of U.S. – born in Hope, Arkansas
Matthew Perry – Actor on Friends – born in Williamstown, Massachusetts
