1. Statehood Day: February 22, 1876, marks the day that Colorado became the 38th state of the United States.

2. Famous Birthdays: Colorado has produced many notable individuals born on February 22, including Robert Altman, the acclaimed filmmaker; William “Buffalo Bill” Cody, the showman and wild west icon; and Kenneth Stanley “Bud” Adams, the owner of the Houston Oilers and Tennessee Titans football teams.

3. Olympic History: February 22, 1960, saw Colorado host the Winter Olympics in the resort town of Squaw Valley, California. The games were notable for the debut of the U.S. ice hockey team, which went on to win gold in what is now known as the “Miracle on Ice” at the 1980 Olympics.

4. Environmental Milestone: On February 22, 2005, Governor Bill Owens signed the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Act, which regulates the drilling and production of oil and gas in the state. The act was considered a landmark in environmental policy and has been used as a model for other states.

5. Tragic Anniversary: Unfortunately, February 22, 2003, marks a tragic anniversary in Colorado history. On that day, a massive avalanche swept down the mountainside in the town of Georgetown, killing five backcountry skiers. The tragedy spurred new awareness of the dangers of backcountry skiing and prompted changes in safety regulations.