Today is the 287th day of 2012 and the 22nd day of autumn.
TODAY'S HISTORY: In 1792, the cornerstone of the White House was ceremonially laid.
In 1845, Texas ratified a state constitution.
In 1943, Italy declared war on Germany, its former Axis ally.
In 1970, the People's Republic of China and Canada announced they would establish diplomatic relations, prompting Taiwan to break ties with Canada.
TODAY'S BIRTHDAYS: Lenny Bruce (1925-1966), comedian; Margaret Thatcher (1925- ), British prime minister; Melinda Dillon (1939- ), actress; Paul Simon (1941- ), singer/songwriter; Sammy Hagar (1947- ), musician; Marie Osmond (1959- ), singer/actress; Nancy Kerrigan (1969- ), figure skater, Sacha Baron Cohen (1971- ), comedian/actor; Ian Thorpe (1982- ), swimmer.
TODAY'S SPORTS: In 1998, the first two weeks of the upcoming NBA season were canceled due to a labor dispute.
TODAY'S FACT: The White House has 132 rooms, including three kitchens and 35 bathrooms.
TODAY'S QUOTE: "If you want something said, ask a man ... if you want something done, ask a woman." -- Margaret Thatcher
TODAY'S NUMBER: 1.34 billion -- population of the People's Republic of China, as of mid-2012.
TODAY'S MOON: Between last quarter (Oct. 8) and new moon (Oct. 15).