Save the Date: February 2014
Noteworthy events for the month ahead . . .
February is National African American History Month. Why February? Because the birthdays of two important figures, Abraham Lincoln (Feb. 12) and Frederic Douglass (Feb. 20), fall in the month.
February 1 marks a historical event for the U.S. Federal Reserve as Janet Yellen becomes the first woman to serve as America's banking chief, succeeding Ben Bernanke. Yellen is slated to lead her first Federal Reserve meetings in March.
February proves to be a busy month for sports fans. The month kicks off with Super Bowl XLVIII on Feb. 2, when the Denver Broncos go head-to-head with the Seattle Seahawks for the coveted Vince Lombardi Trophy, while advertisers spend at least $4 million for a 30-second commercial spot. Not-so-fun-fact for advertisers: "Only one in five Super Bowl commercials leads to a sale, or intent to purchase" according to a study by Advertising Age.
Right on the heels of the Super Bowl is the Winter Olympics from Feb. 7-23 in Sochi, Russia. Over 2500 athletes participating in the event, with the USA sending 230 athletes, beating out host country Russia by five. Follow #sochi2014 for live updates. USA! USA! USA!
The Wall Street Journal and its CIO Network members convene for its annual meeting on February 3-4 in San Diego to develop a prioritized action plan to address key technology and innovation challenges facing corporations. More information here.
Want to meet and greet a few reporters and editors from Forbes? You're in luck! Gorkana hosts its Connects event on February 12 with a focus on Forbes' unique platform of print, digital and mobile products.
The Clintons come together on Feb. 20 to host the Clinton Global Initiative's Winter Meeting in New York City. The meeting brings together CGI members and new participants to set a framework for the year ahead.
Other important, if not quirky, events to take place in the month of February include Groundhog Day (Feb. 2), National Inventors Day (Feb. 11), Valentine's Day (Feb. 14), President's Day (Feb. 17), Be Humble Day (Feb. 22), and round out the month with National Pancake Day on Feb. 28. 