This informative post will be posted on Saturday along with my usual writing.  You are invited to participate with the opening question.

Brain Teaser Question

If I have 3 dimes, 3 nickels, and 3 quarters, how many ways can I make change for $1.00?

(answer found at the end of this post)

Featured Facts

Martin Van Buren served as America’s 8th President from 1837-1841.  Nicknamed “The Little Magician,” his political savvy was legendary.

Here are some interesting facts about Martin Van Buren:

• Life Span:  Born December 5, 1782, died July 24, 1862
• Occupation:  Lawyer
• Home State:  New York
• Political Party:  Democratic (played a significant role in its founding)

Before ascending to the highest political office in the land, Van Buren’s career was filled with numerous posts:  U.S. Senator, Governor, Secretary of State, and Vice President.  He was the first President born in the independent United States, and the only one to have learned English as a second language (he grew up speaking Dutch).

Downturn in the American economy spelled doom for Van Buren.  The Panic of 1837 was the first significant depression of the young republic.  It would become a major reason for his failure to secure a second term in the election of 1840, which was won by Whig candidate William Henry Harrison.

Portrait of President van buren and interior photo of his lindenwald mansion in new york state.

Answer to Brain Teaser Question

Only 2 ways:

3 quarters, 2 dimes, 1 nickel

3 quarters, 1 dime, 3 nickels