Pluto Gets Demoted (2006)

Although it was recognized as a planet for decades, Pluto is much smaller than the other planets in our solar system and more closely resembles a giant comet nucleus. Consequently, the International Astronomical Union demoted Pluto to the category of dwarf planet, which reflected astronomers’ conclusion that it is a member of the Kuiper belt, a strip of billions of icy bodies orbiting the Sun beyond the orbit of Neptune. What is a “plutino”? Discuss

Source: The Free Dictionary

Lavinia Fontana (1552)

One of the few female Italian artists of the 16th century, Lavinia Fontana was the daughter of Italian mannerist painter Prospero Fontana. She was a fashionable portrait painter in Bologna and Rome who was especially noted for the vibrant color and detail of her works. Her self-portraits and a portrait of Pope Gregory XIII show a fine decorative sense in the treatment of costume. She was also a painter of religious subjects. What are some of her major works? Discuss

Source: The Free Dictionary

Light Therapy

Sometimes used to treat skin conditions, mood disorders, and sleep disorders, light therapy consists of exposure to specific wavelengths of light for a prescribed amount of time. Visible violet light is used to activate a naturally occurring compound that kills acne-causing bacteria, while sunlight-mimicking light boxes and other infrared lights are used to treat seasonal affective disorder, a winter-related depressive disorder. What travel-related affliction is also treated with light therapy? Discuss

Source: The Free Dictionary

Sacco and Vanzetti Are Executed (1927)

The 1920 armed robbery and murder trial of the young Italian immigrants Nicola Sacco and Bartolomeo Vanzetti was one of the most controversial in US history. Though some believed the verdict was just, others argued that the two men were innocent and were only found guilty because they were immigrants and political radicals. Their defenders waged a fierce legal and public relations battle to save the men’s lives, but they were executed in 1927. What declaration about the verdict was made in 1977? Discuss

Source: The Free Dictionary

Gene Kelly (1912)

Kelly was an American dancer, choreographer, actor, and movie director. After training at his mother’s dance school in Pittsburgh, he moved to New York in 1938 and danced in Broadway musicals. His athletic style later became a hallmark of the movie musical. His most famous performance came in Singin’ in the Rain, which he also helped choreograph and direct. His achievements earned him a special Academy Award in 1952. With what animated character did Kelly dance in Anchors Aweigh? Discuss

Source: The Free Dictionary