Today is Saturday, Sept. 17, the 261st day of 2016. There are 105 days left in the year.

On this date in NEPA

100 years ago, local theaters: At the Poli, "The Auto Maniacs," a live race between two teams to see who can assembling an entire automobile in less than two minutes. At the New Academy, a musical comedy, "Lady Luxury."

75 years ago, Carbondale Mayor William J. Monahan announced that a huge ornamental tree would be planted in Memorial Park. The tree would be in honor of the young men from Carbondale that are serving in the armed forces.

50 years ago, Dr. Frederick Robinson of Scranton died at his home following a short illness. Dr. Robinson practiced medicine in the city for 41 years.

25 years ago, volunteer firefighters from across the state extinguished the tire fire at Coxton Rail Yards. The fire started in the early morning hours of Sunday, Sept. 15. It is estimated that 500,000 tires were stored at the rail yards.

10 years ago, Old Forge Pizza Express was expanding its take-and-bake pizza outlets in the region. The company, which had a store in South Abington Twp., was looking to open additional locations in the Wilkes-Barre area.

- Times-Tribune Archives

Almanac

In 1862, more than 3,600 men were killed in the Civil War Battle of Antietam in Maryland.

In 1955, Tennessee Ernie Ford recorded "Sixteen Tons" by Merle Travis for Capitol Records in Hollywood.

In 1986, the Senate confirmed the nomination of William H. Rehnquist to become the 16th chief justice of the U.S.

In 1996, former Vice President Spiro T. Agnew died in Berlin, Maryland, at age 77.

In 2006, Pope Benedict XVI said he was "deeply sorry" his recent remarks on Islam and violence had offended Muslims, but the unusual expression of papal regret drew a mixed reaction from Islamic leaders, some of whom said it wasn't enough.

- Associated Press