1. In 1963, New York became the first state to require seat belt anchorage points in cars. This law was introduced after a rise in automobile accidents and fatalities in the state and received widespread praise for increasing driving safety.

2. On February 22, 1847, the first telegraph message was sent from New York City to Philadelphia. This groundbreaking event revolutionized communication in America and allowed for near-instantaneous messages to be sent across great distances.

3. In 1819, the first public school for the deaf in the United States, the New York Institution for the Education of the Deaf and Dumb, was founded on February 22. This institution offered a welcoming educational environment for the hearing impaired and helped to promote deaf culture and identity.

4. February 22, 1935, marked the opening of the first Parker Pen store in New York City. The iconic pen brand revolutionized the writing industry with its innovative designs and reliable quality and has remained a popular brand in the United States and abroad.

5. On February 22, 1878, Frank Woolworth opened the first Woolworth store in Utica, New York. This five-and-dime store would eventually grow into a successful chain with locations all over the world, providing affordable products to customers for over a century.