1. In 1963, the Washington State Board of Education voted to ban prayer and Bible reading in public schools, sparking nationwide controversy and debate over the separation of church and state.

2. In 2008, Washington became the first state in the country to ban discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in employment, housing, and public accommodations, a landmark victory for LGBTQ+ rights.

3. On April 7, 1949, Seattle's iconic Space Needle broke ground, beginning the construction process that would lead to the opening of the tower in 1962 for the World's Fair.

4. In 1994, the Washington State Department of Transportation unveiled its new electronic tolling system, called "Good To Go!," which introduced the use of photo tolling and transponders for more efficient and convenient toll payment.

5. On this day in 2002, Seattle's Safeco Field hosted its first-ever regular season game, as the Mariners faced off against the Oakland Athletics in front of a sold-out crowd. The stadium, which is known for its retractable roof and stunning views of downtown Seattle, has since become a beloved fixture of the city's sports and entertainment scene.