Region One News – February 2018
Published: February 1, 2018
By J. Rick Cipot
February, an odd little month when it comes to Airstreams and camping. Why you may ask? I haven’t a clue! If anything I may not be the best person to write about February and how that fits into our wonderful club. But there are a few things I would like to share that have absolutely nothing to with anything.
According to a popular legend, July was named after Julius Caesar and hence it had 31 days. Later, when Augustus Caesar took over the Roman Empire, he wanted August, the month named after him, to have 31 days as well. So two extra days were taken from February, which was then left with 28 days. However, some historians don’t agree with this reasoning. They believe February always had 28 days ever since the time of King Numa Pompilius. He decided that a year would have 355 days, the length of 12 lunar cycles. Back then, even numbers were considered unlucky. So, he created seven months with 29 days, and four with 31. Since he now needed one short even-numbered month, he chose February, as it was considered the least favorite month for it arrived during the middle of winter. And hence, it was given only 28 days.
Before 2002, Super Bowl Sunday was held the last Sunday in January, but since 2002 it is more commonly held the first Sunday of February. Now that’s pretty exciting. First Lady Louisa Adams along with Abraham Lincoln were born in February. However when in 1879 Frank Winefield Woolworth opened his first 5 cent store in Utica, NY neither were still alive. Other than the obvious, President’s Day, Ground Hog Day and Valentine’s Day, there is always the opportunity for a New England Nore’Easter. That’s when everyone runs to the local grocery store to purchase milk, eggs and bread. I always found it very strange walking down the bread aisle and not a single loaf to be found. It wasn’t until recently did I discover that in New England during a winter storm you are supposed to eat French Toast!
Well I have probably worn out my welcome by now and I do look forward to an exciting camping season for Region One 2018. Of course we have our Regional Rally being hosted by the New England Airstream Club along with a very busy calendar of rallies from all of our Regional Clubs. Also worth noting, several of the Region One Clubs do have open spots rank and file. Please do consider stepping forward to fill one. I know you will be rewarded with knowing that you too are helping keep our great club alive. Till next month, Keep The Shiny Side Up!