Happy Birthday to actress, director, and producer Carole "Penny" Marshall who turns 71 today. Penny, who was once married to Rob Reiner, has one daughter, Tracy who is also an actress.

Penny is probably best known for her roll as "Laverne DeFazio" in the TV series "Laverne & Shirley."  The series ran from 1976 to 1983. The series, a spin-off from "Happy Days", ran for 178 episodes.

Penny directed "A League of Their Own" with Tom Hanks, Geena Davis, Madonna, and Rosie O'Donnell in the cast.

I learned today that Penny's daughter, Tracy Reiner, was in "A League of Their Own" as outfielder/relief pitcher Betty "Spaghetti" Horn.  Who knew??

I also just learned that the character of "Walter Harvey" (on the right above) was played by Penny's brother  Garry Marshall.  Who knew again??