Joseph Fielding Smith

National Vanilla Ice Cream Day

National Vanilla Ice Cream Day, celebrated each year on July 23, honors America's favorite ice cream flavor and the rich history behind it. Vanilla has been cultivated for centuries, with its origins tracing back to the Totonac and Maya peoples of present-day Mexico. The widespread cultivation of vanilla became possible in 1841 when Edmond Albius, an enslaved teenager, developed the hand-pollination technique still used today. Thomas Jefferson helped popularize vanilla ice cream in the United States after discovering it in France and bringing recipes and equipment back to Monticello. Today, vanilla remains the most popular ice cream flavor, reminding us how innovation, cultural exchange, and simple traditions can create lasting favorites enjoyed by generations.

National Hammock Day

National Hammock Day celebrates the history and enjoyment of the hammock, a simple invention first developed centuries ago by the native peoples of Central and South America. Originally woven from tree bark and used to keep people safely above the jungle floor, hammocks later became common aboard ships and remain popular today for relaxation and recreation. The holiday reminds us to appreciate the beauty of the outdoors and the blessings of rest. It also encourages gratitude for the gifts of the earth and the opportunities we have to enjoy God's creations through recreation and peaceful reflection. Read the full article here: https://familyschool.org/spotlight/hammock-8 [https://familyschool.org/spotlight/hammock-8] This episode was created using Notebook LM voice-overs and original research by Rosemary Pollock, historian and published author, who holds an MA in U.S. History and an MA in U.S. History with a focus on the History of Science and Medicine. Produced by Isaac Okawa with American Heritage Worldwide.

First Men on the Moon

Apollo 11 made history on July 20–21, 1969, when astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin became the first humans to walk on the moon while Michael Collins remained in lunar orbit aboard the command module. Armstrong's famous words, "That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind," marked one of humanity's greatest achievements. The successful mission fulfilled President John F. Kennedy's goal of landing a man on the moon before the end of the 1960s and demonstrated the remarkable accomplishments that can be achieved through vision, innovation, teamwork, and perseverance. Read the full article here: https://familyschool.org/spotlight/armstrong-moon-7 [https://familyschool.org/spotlight/armstrong-moon-7] This episode was created using Notebook LM voice-overs and original research by Rosemary Pollock, historian and published author, who holds an MA in U.S. History and an MA in U.S. History with a focus on the History of Science and Medicine. Produced by Isaac Okawa with American Heritage Worldwide.

07.15.26 1st Tabernacle Choir Broadcast

The first broadcast of Music and the Spoken Word aired on July 15, 1929, marking the beginning of what would become the longest-running continuous network radio program in history. Originally broadcast from the Tabernacle on Temple Square with a single microphone, the weekly program has shared sacred music and uplifting messages of hope, peace, and faith with audiences around the world for nearly a century. As technology advanced from radio to television, satellite, and digital broadcasts, the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square expanded its global reach while remaining true to its mission of inspiring listeners through music and gospel-centered messages. Today, Music and the Spoken Word continues to bless millions worldwide, reminding people of eternal truths and the enduring power of faith, worship, and inspired music. Read the full article here: https://familyschool.org/spotlight/tabernaclechoir-8 [https://familyschool.org/spotlight/tabernaclechoir-8] This episode was created using Notebook LM voice-overs and original research by Rosemary Pollock, historian and published author, who holds an MA in U.S. History and an MA in U.S. History with a focus on the History of Science and Medicine. Produced by Isaac Okawa with American Heritage Worldwide.

The Evening and the Morning Star Newspaper

On July 20, 1833, a mob destroyed the printing press that published The Evening and the Morning Star in Independence, Missouri, in an effort to stop the spread of the restored gospel. During the attack, young sisters Mary Elizabeth and Caroline Rollins courageously rescued valuable pages of the Book of Commandments by hiding them in a nearby cornfield, preserving important revelations from the Lord. Although persecution temporarily halted publication, the newspaper later continued as the Messenger and Advocate in Kirtland, Ohio. Their bravery reminds us that courage and faith can help preserve truth even during times of opposition. Read the full article here: https://familyschool.org/spotlight/morning-star-7 [https://familyschool.org/spotlight/morning-star-7] This episode was created using Notebook LM voice-overs and original research by Rosemary Pollock, historian and published author, who holds an MA in U.S. History and an MA in U.S. History with a focus on the History of Science and Medicine. Produced by Isaac Okawa with American Heritage Worldwide.