It has come to our attention that National Geographic has plans in the works to change the color of the magazine border.  The more-than-a-century-old border has adorned the magazine since its first publication in 1888 and has become a symbol of the excellence that NGS strives to achieve in journalism, photography and, of course, geography.

An insider, when questioned on the decision to change the classic yellow border to a new, more identifiable color, noted, “We’re avoiding calling it a ‘change’; it’s more of an update.  We’re freshening up, a spring cleaning if you will.”

Semantics aside, the general consensus seems to be that yellow just is not ‘in’ anymore.  “Sure, in 1891 yellow was all the rage, but now we need a color that says ‘life’ and ‘growth,’ not ‘jaundice,'” senior editor Ann DeSanctis told My Wonderful World early Wednesday morning.

The society is considering green to reflect its dedication to environmental initiatives.

If you’re still reading this, you have fallen victim to an April Fools
prank 😉 National Geographic is NOT changing the color of the iconic
magazine border! We hope that you have found humor in this little jest,
rather than offense; please read the post that follows to learnmore
about the history of April Fool’s Day.

(The information below is not a joke.)

The first of April, some do say,
Is set apart for All Fools’ Day.
But why the people call it so,
Nor I, nor they themselves do know.
But on this day are people sent
On purpose for pure merriment.

Poor Robin’s Almanac released this verse in 1760 to rile up the childlike spirit of the holiday.

There are many theories about the origins of April Fool’s Day. The most popular one that I have found is the Roman version. In ancient Roman times, the festival of Cerealia was held at the beginning of April. The legend goes that Cerealia, mother of Proserpina, was trying to find her daughter, who was being carried off to the underworld. She searched for Proserpina by following a voice that she believed to be hers, but it was actually an echo. Unable to find Proserpina, Cerelia’s journey amounted to a “Fool’s errand.”

Today, people around the world celebrate April Fools by playing pranks on family, friends, classmates, and even coworkers. Typically, tricks are small and harmless, but sometimes they can amount to more than mere child’s play.

In the UK, France and Australia, pranks are traditionally carried out before noon, and anyone who attempts a joke after this time is known as the Fool. In many other places, such as the United States, the mischief carries on for the entire day.

Holidays seem to bring all sorts of emotions; April Fools is somewhat unique in keeping people on guard in hopes that they don’t fall victim to someone’s practical joke. Or, you could be the one playing the joke. I know that I have fallen on both sides of the spectrum!

So whether you’re sent out to get pigeon’s milk, or elbow-grease, I hope that you enjoy the day and find time to laugh at the funny mishaps along the way. Happy April Fool’s Day!

By: Zachary Michel and Sarah Evans