The first crossword clue appeared in the US newspaper, New York World, on 21 December 1913. The puzzle lacked a 1-across and so the first clue was placed at 2-across. The clue was “What bargain hunters enjoy”. The answer? “Sales.” [NB Alternatively, the 1-down clue is “To govern”. Answer “Rule”.]

The first crossword puzzle appeared in the Sunday “Fun” section of US newspaper New York World on 21 December 1913. Created by journalist Arthur Wynne (UK), it was based on a diamond shaped grid, had no blacked-out squares and featured simple, non-cryptic clues.

The first collection of crossword puzzles was published in the USA in 1924. Called The Cross Word Puzzle Book it was the first publication by a new partnership formed by Dick Simon and Lincoln Schuster. The book, a compilation of crossword puzzles from US newspaper New York World, was an instant success and helped to establish publishing giant Simon & Schuster, who continue to produce crossword books to this day. [NB “Cross” and “Word” remained separate until the late 1920s]

The first ballistic custard pie was discharged by Mabel Normand (USA, 1892-1930) in the direction of Fatty Arbuckle (USA, 1887-1933) in A Noise from the Deep (USA 1913). In subsequent pictures Mabel was generally the recipient of Arbuckles pies. He had an unerring aim and an extraordinary physical dexterity that enabled him to hurl two pies at once in opposite directions! Traditionally, the pie of choice for throwing in actors faces. At first the pies used in slapstick comedies were the real thing, but it Continue reading →

In March 1997 clinical psychologist Dr. Kimberly Young (USA) established the Center for On-Line Addiction, the world’s first psychiatric cyberclinic for internet addicts and those with related mental health problems.