1970s Forgotten TV Halloween Specials by Rhetty for History

Step back in time to the 1970s with Rhetty for History and experience a nostalgic journey as he goes over the Halloween specials that once graced TV screens. Specials that are also available to watch online.

Some of the Halloween specials mentioned in the video:

Halloween with the New Addams Family (1977)


The original Addams Family cast reunites for a one-off television special filled with the same macabre charm and darkly humorous shenanigans that fans love.

Witch's Night Out (1978)


Halloween magic unfolds as two kids seek the help of a bumbling witch to find the spookiest costumes, leading to a chaotic and enchanting adventure.

Once Upon a Midnight Scary (1979)

An hour-long Halloween special introduced by the Master of Horror Vincent Price, featuring three eerie tales, each more mysterious and chilling than the last.

Mad Mad Monsters (1972)


A delightful animated Halloween special, classic monsters like Frankenstein, Dracula, and the Werewolf gather for a hilariously chaotic wedding, filled with madcap antics and monstrous mayhem.

Paul Lynde Halloween Special (1976)


A Halloween extravaganza featuring a star-studded cast, including the Wicked Witch of the West herself, Margaret Hamilton, and a memorable blend of comedy and music.

The Halloween That Almost Wasn't (1979)


Dracula strives to save Halloween from a witch who wants to abolish the holiday, leading to a spirited battle between the supernatural characters.

Fat Albert Halloween Special (1977)


Fat Albert and his friends decide to skip treats and embark on a mischievous adventure to scare their neighbors, but they end up getting a spine-tingling surprise of their own from the spooky lady living near the graveyard

Halloween Is Grinch Night (1977)


Halloween Is Grinch Night tells the story of the Grinch wreaking havoc on Whoville during a particularly eerie Grinch Night.

The Flintstones Meet Rockula and Frankenstone (1979)


The beloved Stone Age family faces a ghoulish adventure as they cross paths with the famous monsters Rockula and Frankenstone

Casper Saves Halloween (1979)


Casper, the Friendly Ghost tries to dress up as a real boy and befriends a group of orphans. But their Halloween fun is threatened by Harry Scary and his ghostly gang, prompting Casper and his friends to embark on a mission to rescue Halloween.

Halloween Hall of Fame (1977)


Jonathan Winters stars as a security guard who, while working late at the Walt Disney Production Studio on Halloween night, encounters a talking pumpkin jack-o'-lantern that presents a series of classic Disney Halloween cartoons

Halloween Safety (1977)


An educational film, lasting 11 minutes, teaching the importance of Halloween safety, covering topics like reflective tape, inspecting treats, traveling in groups, and other safety measures while trick-or-treating, offering valuable tips for a secure Halloween experience.

The Pumpkin Who Couldn't Smile (1979)


An animated CBS special that tells the heartwarming story of Raggedy Anne and Raggedy Andy's quest to find a smiling pumpkin for a boy in need of Halloween cheer, providing a delightful tale of friendship and joy.

Top 5 Christmas Paintable Ceramics for a Festive Home

The Christmas season is the perfect time to be creative and add a personal touch to your Christmas decorations. One memorably creative way to do this is by painting Christmas ceramics. From ornaments to figurines, paintable Christmas ceramic pieces can be turned into unique, festive decorations that will make your home feel even cozier and more inviting. Not to mention, they can be a memorable part of the Christmas season with family. You'll be able to hand the decorations down through generations to come.

Here are, in my opinion, some of the top paintable Christmas ceramics:

New Hampshire Craftworks The Lovable Santa

Discover the charm of New Hampshire Craftworks' "The Lovable Santa," a delightful holiday ceramic keepsake that you can personalize with your artistic touch. This enchanting ceramic Santa figurine is the perfect canvas for your creative expression, allowing you to paint and decorate it to match your unique holiday décor. Embrace the joy of the season as you bring Santa to life with your favorite colors and designs, creating a cherished keepsake that will adorn your home with warmth and festive cheer.

Holiday Village Winter General Store Candle Votive Lantern

Elevate your holiday décor with the enchanting "Holiday Village Winter General Store Candle Votive Lantern," a ceramic keepsake awaiting your artistic flair. This picturesque ceramic lantern captures the essence of a winter general store in a holiday village, and you have the opportunity to paint and personalize it according to your festive vision. Infuse your home with the warm glow of the season by placing a candle or votive inside, and let your hand-painted masterpiece become a cherished part of your holiday traditions, radiating cozy charm and the spirit of the holidays.

Bright Creations DIY Paint Your Own Ceramics for Kids, Ready to Paint Holiday Ornaments (26 Pieces)

Engage your child's creativity with Bright Creations' "DIY Paint Your Own Ceramics for Kids," featuring ready-to-paint holiday ornaments. This exciting kit offers an ideal canvas for young artists to express themselves during the festive season. These ceramic ornaments are primed for personalization, and children can have a wonderful time adding their unique touches to these holiday treasures, creating not only beautiful decorations but also cherished memories that will last for years to come.

The Lovable Reindeer - Paint Your Own Wintery Ceramic Keepsake

This charming ceramic reindeer figurine is your canvas to unleash your creative spirit and decorate it to match the wintry theme of your choice. Bring this lovable reindeer to life with your favorite colors and artistic touch, making it a treasured addition to your holiday décor, radiating warmth and the magic of the season.

Christmas Crafts Paint Your Own Nativity Kit - 10 Figurines

Experience the joy of the season with the "Christmas Crafts Paint Your Own Nativity Kit," a complete set that enables you to create your own nativity scene featuring 10 figurines. Dive into the spirit of Christmas as you bring each figure to life with your own flair. This kit provides an ideal canvas for your creativity, allowing you to paint and personalize each piece to craft a nativity scene that will hold a special place in your holiday decorations, conveying the true meaning of Christmas with your unique touch.

Why are hand-painted Christmas ceramics are better than ordinary ornaments?

They can be more personalized. When you paint your own ceramics, you can choose the colors, styles, and designs that that get you into the festive mood for the holiday season.

Hand-painted Christmas ceramic ornaments and figurines will become treasured keepsakes in your family that are attached to Christmas memories. They will hold sentimental value and can be passed down through generations, becoming a part of your family's holiday traditions.

Some tips for painting Christmas ceramics:

You'll need paintbrushes, paints, water, paper towels, and a palette.

 
Here's a paint kit that I recommend: Washable Paint Set for Kids Arts and Crafts - 6 Acrylic Paint Sets of 12 Colors, Mixing Palette, Brushes

Lay down newspaper or a drop cloth to protect your work area from paint spills.

Once the figures are dry, apply a sealant to protect the paint and add a glossy finish.

My recommendation: Mod Podge Gloss 4-ounce Squeeze Bottle

When painting these decorations, remember to let your creativity shine. Whether you're good at painting ceramics or a beginner, each piece you paint will add a personal and heartfelt touch to your holiday décor. So, grab your brushes, pick your favorite Christmas ceramic project, and let the festive painting begin. Your home will be transformed into a winter wonderland filled with your unique, hand-painted decorations.

Chinese Chestnut Trees - A Sustainable Choice

The Chinese Chestnut Tree: Versatility in Agriculture, Cuisine, and Ecology

The Chinese chestnut tree (Castanea mollissima) is more than just a beautiful addition to landscapes. With its rich history, nutritional value, and ecological benefits, this resilient tree has become a favorite among gardeners, farmers, and culinary enthusiasts worldwide. Whether you're interested in its role in sustainable agriculture or its delicious nuts, the Chinese chestnut tree offers something for everyone.

Characteristics of the Chinese Chestnut Tree

The Chinese chestnut is a medium to large deciduous tree that grows 30-70 feet tall. Its glossy, serrated leaves and creamy-white catkins make it an attractive choice for landscaping. In autumn, the tree produces spiny husks that split open to reveal shiny brown nuts, prized for their flavor and versatility.

Chinese chestnuts are also hardy and adaptable. They thrive in well-drained, slightly acidic soils and can withstand cold temperatures as low as USDA Hardiness Zone 5. These trees are drought-tolerant once established, making them a resilient choice for various climates.

Why Grow Chinese Chestnuts?

Chinese chestnuts are not just visually appealing; they are also highly practical. Here are some reasons why these trees are worth planting:

• Nutritious Food Source: The nuts are rich in carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamins while being low in fat. They can be eaten roasted, boiled, or ground into flour for gluten-free baking.

• Economic Potential: With U.S. demand for chestnuts exceeding domestic supply by millions of dollars annually, growing Chinese chestnuts offers a profitable opportunity for farmers.

• Sustainability: These trees contribute to carbon sequestration, improve soil health through nutrient cycling, and support wildlife with their dense canopy and abundant leaf litter.

• Low Maintenance: Once established, Chinese chestnuts require minimal care and are resistant to the devastating chestnut blight that has affected other species.

Cultivating Chinese Chestnut Trees

Growing Chinese chestnuts is relatively straightforward. Here’s what you need to know:

• Planting: Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. While they can self-pollinate, planting multiple cultivars improves yields.

• Watering: Regular watering is essential during the first few years. Established trees are drought-tolerant but benefit from occasional deep watering.

• Pruning: Prune to maintain a balanced canopy and remove dead or diseased branches.

• Pest Management: Watch for pests like weevils and take appropriate measures to protect the tree.

Harvesting and Using Chinese Chestnuts

One of the most rewarding aspects of growing Chinese chestnuts is harvesting their delicious nuts. Typically ready in early fall, the nuts drop naturally when ripe. Use gloves to handle the spiny husks and store the nuts in a cool, dry place. They can be refrigerated for weeks or frozen for long-term storage.

Chinese chestnuts are versatile in the kitchen. They can be roasted for a sweet treat, added to soups and stews for a nutty flavor, or ground into flour for baking breads and desserts.

Ecological Benefits

Beyond their economic and culinary value, Chinese chestnut trees play an important role in ecosystems:

• Wildlife Support: The nuts provide food for deer, squirrels, raccoons, birds, and other animals. The dense canopy offers shelter for small mammals and birds.

• Soil Health: Their deep roots improve soil structure while leaf litter enriches organic matter.

• Carbon Sequestration: Each tree contributes significantly to reducing CO2 levels in the atmosphere.

A Tree with Endless Possibilities

The Chinese chestnut tree is a true all-rounder—beautiful in appearance, valuable as a food source, profitable for farmers, and beneficial for the environment. Whether you're looking to enhance your garden's aesthetics or explore sustainable farming practices, this remarkable tree deserves your attention.

Planting a Chinese chestnut tree isn't just an investment in your landscape; it's an investment in future generations—providing food, shelter, and ecological benefits that will endure for decades to come.

 Chinese Chestnut Tree Facts, Uses, and Planting Tips

Two worthwhile books on the topic of chestnuts are The American Chestnut: An Environmental History and The Chestnut Cook Book: Recipes, Folklore and Practical Information

Further Reading

• History of the American Chestnut Tree - The American Chestnut Foundation
• Chinese Chestnut - Propagate AG
• Chestnuts Worldwide - Chestnut Hill Outdoors
• Chinese Chestnut vs. American Chestnut - A-Z Animals
• Chinese Chestnut Tree FAQ - TN Nursery
• Castanea mollissima - Plants For A Future

M31 Andromeda Galaxy - Our Closest Galactic Neighbor

The M31 Andromeda Galaxy is amongst the most fascinating celestial objects in the night sky. It is our nearest galaxy neighbor and yet is staggeringly far away from Earth—2.537 million light years. We will dive into the wonders of the Andromeda Galaxy, giving you a overview of its characteristics, timeline, and importance to the study of the universe.

Characteristics of the M31 Andromeda Galaxy

Size and Mass: The Andromeda Galaxy is a massive spiral galaxy, much like our Milky Way. It spans an astonishing 220,000 light-years in diameter and contains approximately one trillion stars. Its mass is estimated to be around 1.76 times that of the Milky Way.

Appearance: When observed from Earth, Andromeda appears as a faint, elongated smudge of light in the constellation Andromeda. It is often visible to the naked eye and has been a subject of fascination for astronomers for centuries.

Spiral Structure: Andromeda exhibits a prominent spiral structure with well-defined arms. This spiral nature makes it a prime target for astronomers studying the dynamics and evolution of galaxies.

Galactic Cannibalism: Andromeda has a history of cannibalizing smaller satellite galaxies. It has consumed several smaller galaxies over billions of years, and its gravitational influence continues to affect its smaller neighbors.

Collision Course with the Milky Way: One of the most intriguing aspects of the Andromeda Galaxy is its future collision with our Milky Way. In about 4.5 billion years, these two galaxies are expected to collide and merge, forming a new, larger galaxy.

Historical Significance

The Andromeda Galaxy has played a crucial role in the development of our understanding of the cosmos. Here are some key historical milestones:

Discovery: Although Andromeda has been visible to the naked eye for millennia, it was only formally identified as a separate galaxy from our Milky Way in the early 20th century.

Edwin Hubble's Work: In the 1920s, Edwin Hubble used Andromeda to provide evidence for the expansion of the universe. His observations of Cepheid variable stars in Andromeda helped establish the concept of the universe's expansion.

Distance Measurement: Andromeda was one of the first galaxies for which an accurate distance measurement was obtained, revolutionizing our understanding of cosmic distances.

Significance in Modern Astronomy

Andromeda continues to be a focal point of astronomical research. Some of its modern-day significance includes:

Studying Galaxy Evolution: Andromeda provides a unique opportunity to study the evolution of a galaxy similar to our own. By comparing the two, astronomers can gain insights into the past, present, and future of the Milky Way.

Dark Matter Studies: The motions of stars in Andromeda have been used to investigate the distribution of dark matter in the galaxy, shedding light on this mysterious cosmic component.

Galactic Dynamics: Observing Andromeda helps astronomers refine their understanding of the dynamics of spiral galaxies, including the behavior of stars and gas within them.

Not only is the M31 Andromeda Galaxy a magnificent sight in the night sky, but it also a treasure trove of scientific knowledge. Its size, structure, and historical significance make it a crucial subject of study in the field of astronomy Andromeda will continue to be a source of discovery and a reminder of the vastness of the cosmos as we look further, and perhaps travel further, into space.

As you gaze at the wonders of the Andromeda Galaxy, don't forget to enhance your own stargazing experience. Check out these top-rated and affordable telescopes and grab a captivating stargazing guide from Amazon to bring the universe closer to you. Explore the cosmos like never before!

Shop Telescopes and Stargazing Books on Amazon

Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway: A Ride Through the Heart of the Poconos

The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway is a popular tourist destination in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania. The railway offers narrated train rides through the scenic Lehigh Gorge, a national natural landmark. The route winds its way along the Lehigh River, past mountains, forests, and historic landmarks.

The railway offers a variety of train cars, including open-air cars, coach cars, and dome cars. The open-air cars offer the best views of the scenery, but they can be chilly in the winter. The coach cars are more comfortable, but they don't offer as much of a view. The dome cars offer a panoramic view of the surrounding area.

The railway offers a variety of train rides, including day trips, dinner trains, and special events. The day trips are the most popular, and they typically last about two hours. The dinner trains offer a delicious meal and a scenic train ride. The special events include Halloween trains, Christmas trains, and Polar Express trains.

The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway is a great way to experience the beauty of the Poconos. The train rides are relaxing and enjoyable, and they offer a unique perspective of the region. If you are looking for an enjoyable activity to do in the Poconos, be sure to check out the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway.

Here are some additional details about the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway:

* The railway is located in Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania, a historic town that was once a major coal mining town.

* The railway offers train rides year-round, weather permitting.

* The railway is wheelchair accessible.

If you are planning a visit to the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway, be sure to book your tickets in advance. The railway is a popular tourist destination, and tickets may sell out quickly, especially in autumn. You can book your tickets online.

Don't hesitate to visit the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway. It is a truly unique and unforgettable experience.

Pony Express Trail - Aunt Libby’s Pet Cemetery in Point Lookout, Utah

Imagine stepping back in time, where the echoes of the past whisper tales of devotion and companionship. Nestled along the Pony Express Historical Trail in Point Lookout, Utah, lies a place that holds a unique and heartwarming piece of history which is unofficially known as the Pony Express Trail Pet Cemetery. It is also known as Aunt Libby’s Dog Cemetery.

This serene resting place is not just an ordinary cemetery; it's a tribute to the cherished pets and emigrants.

As you approach the cemetery, your eyes are drawn to a remarkable sight – an ornate wall crafted from aged yet still sturdy concrete and rugged rock. This wall isn't just a boundary; it's a symbol of the dedication that once thrived within these grounds. Enclosed within its protective embrace on the west side are the graves of two men and a child, emigrants who journeyed through the rugged landscapes of the early 1860s.

But the heart of this sacred place beats with a different rhythm – that of the beloved dogs who found their eternal home here. In 1888, a woman named Mrs. Horace, fondly known as Aunt Libby, erected the original wall to shelter the final resting places of her four faithful canine companions: Jenny Lind, Josephine Bonapart, Bishop, and Toby Tyler. These names may seem unusual, but they hold stories of shared solace and companionship.

Aunt Libby's dogs were more than just pets; they were her steadfast companions during lonely vigils at Point Lookout Station from 1866 to 1890. As she gazed across the landscapes and awaited the distant echoes of the Pony Express, her loyal friends offered comfort and unwavering loyalty. Each dog brought a unique personality and presence, standing by her side through the passage of time.

Point Lookout Station, also known by various names like Lookout Pass, General Johnston's Pass, and Jackson's, witnessed these heartwarming connections unfold. In the year 1876, Horace and Libby Rockwell called a log house nearby their home. Undoubtedly, within its walls, stories were shared, laughter echoed, and a bond between humans and their faithful companions blossomed.

Visiting the Pony Express Trail Pet Cemetery is a journey into the past, a chance to connect with history on a personal and emotional level. The ornate wall, the enclosed graves, and the tales of Aunt Libby and her beloved dogs serve as a reminder that the bonds we forge with our pets are timeless and profound.

If you're interested in exploring more stories about the Pony Express Trail, you might enjoy reading "The Pony Express Trail: Yesterday and Today." This intriguing book takes a deep dive into the interesting past of the short-lived Pony Express. It was a significant era when mail traveled far distances through the Old West.

Aunt Libby’s pet cemetery in Point Lookout, Utah, is a place where history and heartfelt stories intersect. The ornate wall, the companionship of Aunt Libby and her dogs, and the enduring legacy of the Pony Express all come together to create a truly unique and touching experience. As you reflect on the bonds that connect us across time and space, remember that the love we share with our pets is a testament to the beauty of human-animal relationships.

Related Links:
https://www.utahoutdooractivities.com/pet-cemetery-lookout-pass.html
https://bscottholmes.com/content/point-lookoutlookout-pass-station-pony-express