Automatic Door Day
National Automatic Door Day is celebrated annually on March 19. Established in 2020 by the American Association of Automatic Door Manufacturers (AAADM), this day acknowledges the convenience, accessibility, and hygiene benefits that automatic doors bring to daily life. They provide easier access for individuals with mobility challenges, promoting inclusivity in public spaces. Improving By offering touch-free entry, they help reduce the spread of germs, a feature that gained prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic. They assist everyone, from parents with strollers to individuals carrying packages, by simplifying entry and exit in various settings.
Stretch Mark Day
National Stretch Mark Day is observed annually on March 19. Established in 2019 by body positivity advocate Anya Harris, the day aims to encourage individuals to embrace their stretch marks as natural features of the human body, promoting self-love and challenging societal beauty standards. Stretch marks, also known as striae or “tiger stripes,” are common and can result from various life events such as puberty, pregnancy, rapid weight changes, or muscle growth. Despite their prevalence, stretch marks have often been stigmatized.
Historical Events
1931 – Nevada Legalizes Gambling
Governor Fred B. Balzar signed a bill making Nevada the first U.S. state to legalize casino gambling, shaping its future as a hub for entertainment and tourism.
1945 – Attack on USS Franklin
A Japanese dive bomber struck the USS Franklin during WWII, resulting in over 800 casualties. It was one of the most heavily damaged U.S. carriers to survive the war.
1953 – First Televised Academy Awards
The 25th Academy Awards became the first to be broadcast on television. The Greatest Show on Earth won Best Picture.
1966 – Historic NCAA Basketball Win
Texas Western College (now UTEP) started five Black players in the NCAA championship and defeated Kentucky. It was a landmark moment in sports integration.
1995 – Michael Jordan Returns to the NBA
After retiring in 1993, Jordan announced his return with two words: “I’m back.” He rejoined the Chicago Bulls and wore number 45.
2003 – Iraq War Begins
President George W. Bush announced the start of U.S.-led military operations in Iraq, marking the beginning of the Iraq War.
Notable Birthdays
Bruce Willis (1955)
Actor known for his work in Die Hard, Pulp Fiction, and many action films.
Glenn Close (1947)
Award-winning actress known for roles in Fatal Attraction, Dangerous Liaisons, and The Wife.
Ursula Andress (1936)
Swiss actress and the original Bond girl in Dr. No.
Andy Reid (1958)
Head coach of the Kansas City Chiefs, widely respected in the NFL.
Clayton Kershaw (1988)
MLB pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers, recognized as one of the best of his generation.
Notable Deaths
Severus Alexander (d. 235): Roman Emperor whose reign ended with his assassination, marking the beginning of the Crisis of the Third Century.
Ibn Khaldun (d. 1406): Renowned Arab historian and philosopher, often considered a forerunner of modern sociology and historiography.
Arthur Balfour (d. 1930): British Prime Minister (1902–1905) and author of the Balfour Declaration, which expressed British support for a Jewish homeland in Palestine.
Edgar Rice Burroughs (d. 1950): American author best known for creating the iconic character Tarzan.
Arthur C. Clarke (d. 2008): British science fiction writer and futurist, co-author of the screenplay for 2001: A Space Odyssey.
Randy Rhoads (d. 1982): Influential American guitarist, known for his work with Ozzy Osbourne and Quiet Riot.
John DeLorean (d. 2005): American engineer and founder of the DeLorean Motor Company, famous for the DMC DeLorean sports car featured in the Back to the Future films.
Andrew Wood (d. 1990): Lead singer of the Seattle-based rock band Mother Love Bone, whose death is often cited as a catalyst for the grunge movement.
Eddie Adcock (1939–2025): American bluegrass banjo player, known for his innovative techniques and contributions to the genre.
George Bell (1957–2025): American basketball player and entertainer, recognized as one of the tallest men in the United States.
Pedro Cuatrecasas (1936–2025): American biochemist who played a pivotal role in the development of modern drug discovery methods.
Sam Keen (1931–2025): American author and philosopher, noted for his writings on spirituality and masculinity.
