IT'S NATIONAL EVERYTHING YOU DO IS RIGHT DAY

On the face of it, this national occasion sounds like a confidence booster, but I'm not so sure I want to partake. It seems like a lot to live up to. Instead, maybe I'll just honor National Freedom of Information Day — an occasion that invites us to look into the fallibility of our government and demand answers.

Dogged reporters demanding facts from the halls of government...probably.

Most of these silly national occasions seem to be arbitrary, but National Freedom of Information Day coincides with the birthday of 4th US President James Madison.

Although it wasn't until 1966 that Congress passed the Freedom of Information Act into law, Madison was an OG supporter of individual rights* and freedom of information. He is considered the "Father of the Constitution" and was a leading advocate for The Bill of Rights and openness in government.

(*Mostly for white dudes though; much like unsafe children's toys of the 70s and 80s, he was a product of his time.)

Also celebrating March 16th birthdays:

• Actress, author and Gilmore Girls star Lauren Graham, born this day in 1967.

• Comedian, actor, director and producer Jerry Lewis, born this day in 1926. Nicknamed "The King of Comedy," Lewis is regarded as one of the most significant American cultural figures of the 20th century. Lewis was popular before I was old enough to pay attention to him, but I do remember his annual telethons, which he hosted to raise money for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

• Rapper, reality star, and Public Enemy co-founder William Jonathan Drayton, Jr., known professionally as Flavor Flav, born on this day in 1959.

• Musician, singer/songwriter Nancy Lamoureux Wilson, born this day in 1954. Wilson rose to fame with her sister Ann as guitarist and backing vocalist in the rock band Heart.

Now on to some amusing links!

*****

1. Drowning in despair? Try doom scrolling (it won't help)

This is the second entry to my growing collection of satirical commercials for abstract concepts. If you do like it please do me a favor and share it with someone who could use a laugh?

2. Oh my, they found Nessy!

Straight from Middle Earth, comedian Tony Baker adds hilarious commentary to some truly bizarre nature footage.

3. Sometimes the truth is stranger than fiction

This Twitter account collects the craziest news headlines from around the web and shares them for your WTF musings.

4. The giggliest little fox

Finnegan the Fox's joy at getting some attention is pretty contagious. I challenge you to watch his delight and not smile along with him!

5. Nature photography that will make you appreciate the outdoors

Conservation photographer Deirdre Denali Rosenberg's Instagram account is loaded with stunning nature photos and some awesome wildlife pics. Take a break from doom scrolling and have a slice of zen with this photo collection!

*****

OK! Hopefully these little diversions helped to brighten your day! We'll be back here in your inbox on Friday with more entertainment and Boredwalk news (including the unveiling of a very useful new product)! Until then...

Peace, love, and information,

Meredith