You may have noticed that today’s newsletter came in a little later than usual — but that’s only because we’re celebrating National Be Late for Something Day! Leave your kids at school a few minutes longer today or get back at the doctor for always making YOU wait.

This is The Reset Button from Classic Nerd, resetting your day.

September 5 in Nerd History

Here are five things that happened on September 5 for those of us who know that apple juice cures all injuries.

I.

Birthdays of honor: Bob Newhart (1929), Freddie Mercury (1946), Michael Keaton (1951), Raquel Welch (1940), Rose McGowan (1973), Werner Herzog (1942).

II.

Today in 1941 what is widely considered to be one of the best films ever made, and one of the most influential movies in cinematic history, was released: Citizen Kane.

​Orson Welles’ first feature film, the cinematography, editing, music, and overall narrative set new precedents for what types of stories movies could tell. It also inspired us to clutch things and raspily utter “Rosebud” for no good reason.

III.

In 1966 comedian and actor Jerry Lewis turned the telethon into an art form when his very first Muscular Dystrophy Labor Day telethon aired. It was the first telethon to raise over $1 million dollars.

Lewis would return to host the telethon annually for a total of 44 years.

IV.

It’s time to play the music, because today in 1976 the first episode of Jim Henson’s The Muppet Show premiered (not including the two pilots, because they were weird and inconsistent).

Joel Grey, an actor best known for his role in Cabaret, was the guest star.

V.

40 years ago, in 1983, “Maniac” by Michael Sembello was the top song in the country.