13 Mar, 2023
As we all know the month of March is known for St. Patrick’s Day for the lucky Irish folks, “March Madness” for the basketball fans, Women’s History Month, as well as the dreaded daylight savings time where we all lose a hour of sleep… but do we really??? However, there is so much more to March than the traditions of our calendar. Did You Know This Happened in the Month of March … Scott Kelly, Astronaut for NASA was in space for an entire year before returning to earth, while setting a new record for the longest undisturbed space trip. Twitter was founded by Jack Dorsey whose first tweet was “just setting up my twttr”. Hmmm, I think he spelled that incorrectly 😊 Also, In the Month of March There is … National Peanut Butter Day, National Read Across America Day, Employee Appreciation Day, National Craft Day, and of course there is Pi Day - 3.14 for the mathematicians, and Pie Day for those like me! Since it is Women’s History Month, I would like to give a shout out to our greatest women inventors – Windscreen Wiper - Mary Anderson On a winter's day of 1903, Mary Anderson was visiting New York City when she noticed that her driver was forced to open his window, just to the clear the snow from his windscreen. Every time the window was open, the passengers in the car got colder. Anderson started drawing her solution of a rubber blade that could be moved from inside the car, and in 1903 was awarded a patent for her device. But the invention proved unsuccessful with car companies, who believed it would distract drivers. Anderson never profited from her invention, even when the wipers later became standard on cars. Note to Self: Get new windshield wipers and thank Mary. Stem Cell Isolation - Ann Tsukamoto Her patent was awarded in 1991 and since then Tsukamoto's work has led to great advancements in understanding the blood systems of cancer patients, which could lead to a cure for the disease. Tsukamoto is currently conducting further research into stem cell growth and is the co-patentee on more than seven other inventions. Kevlar - Stephanie Kwolek This chemist invented the lightweight fiber used in bullet-proof vests and body armour. Since her discovery in 1965, the material, which is five times stronger than steel, has saved lives and is used by millions every day. It's found in products ranging from household gloves and mobiles phones to airplanes and suspension bridges. Other Inventions That Were Created By Women Include – The game Monopoly (1904), the dishwasher (1886), home security system (1960), the computer (1944), and so much more! These are just a few fun facts for all of you to ponder in the month of March, so in closing I just want to say – Happy Spring on March 20 th !!! Written By: Nikki Engels 3.1.23 Sources: 1. BBC News, September 4, 2017 - https://www.bbc.com/news/world-40923649 2. Readers Digest - https://www.rd.com/article/month-of-march-facts/ 3. Country Living - https://www.countryliving.com/life/entertainment/a37711958/march-holidays-and-observances/ 4. Women’s Day - https://www.womansday.com/life/a37745912/march-holidays-and-observances/ 5. Invention Land - https://inventionland.com/blog/ten-female-inventors-who-changed-our-lives/